Motorcycles are fun to ride, but they require some extra safety precautions and a different set of skills than driving a car. To be safe, you’ll need to get educated on the rules of the road from the perspective of a rider and understand how to operate the various controls. However, the prospect of learning to ride a bike can be a bit intimidating to some beginners. If you’re looking to own or have just purchased your first bike, you’ll want to enroll in motorcycle training classes. These rider programs are designed to make you comfortable on a bike and give you the skills you need to ride with confidence!

Here at Freedom Cycles, we strive to make your life easier. That's why we have created this brief guide to help you get started with motorcycle training. If you have any questions, or if you’re in need of parts or service, feel free to contact us at our dealership in Grandview, Missouri.

Why Should You Take a Class?

Some people might think that riding a motorcycle might be similar to riding a bicycle. However, the reality is that there are many more intricacies involved, which is why you’re better off learning how to ride before you hop on a motorcycle.

Investing in a motorcycle training class is one of the wisest moves you can make as a beginner. You'll be guided by experienced instructors who have been riding bikes for many years and they can teach you all the tricks of the trade. At the same time, you'll be surrounded by other new riders and you’ll be able to enjoy the sense of solidarity that comes along with that. Chances are that you may even find your next riding buddy there!

Another big advantage of taking a riding course is that they’ll have loaner motorcycles available for you to practice on, which means you don’t have to purchase a bike yourself while you’re just learning the basics. This gives you an opportunity to see if motorcycle riding really is something you’re suited for, or if two-wheel commuting just isn’t for you.

A training course will teach essential techniques involving the throttle, clutch, brake control, and much more. You might be able to find a program in your area that offers different classes based on your skill level, such as beginner, intermediate, or advanced. You’ll reap several benefits by taking motorcycle classes, so don’t skip out on these, especially if you’re a first-time rider.

Where to Enroll?

There are several motorcycle training classes that are offered throughout the country at reasonable costs. One of the best places to find lessons is the website of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), where you can search to see what’s available in your area. The MSF has been in the business of keeping riders safe since 1974 and millions of riders have graduated from their programs.

You’ll be given lessons in a classroom and materials to read as well as hands-on experience on a bike in a practice area before you take your exams. The learning doesn’t stop there—once you have passed the basic courses, you can often move on to advanced courses that will teach you more nuanced skills that will make you an even better biker.

Practice What You Learn

Knowing how to safely ride motorcycles is important, but that alone isn't enough to prepare you for the open road. You will also need to spend time practicing different techniques in a safe, controlled environment. After all, knowing what to do is one thing, but being able to put it into action is another. Look for empty parking lots or low-traffic residential roads. Start at slow speeds and slowly build up your speed as your skills develop. This will help you to develop muscle memory and you’ll feel confident riding your bike. Once you have mastered the basics, you’ll become a pro in time!

The best way to start your motorcycle training is to enroll in a certified course. If you have any questions about learning to ride, or if you’re just eager to check out some high-quality motorcycles for sale, get in touch with us at Freedom Cycles in Grandview, MO. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Kansas City, MO, and Overland Park, KS.