well i got a new bike. i have never rode a street bike before but i have rode dirt bikes so i know that there are similarities and differences like clutch etc. i am about to sign up for a class that cost $215 but i was thinking maybe, since im big enough to just sit on it and reach the ground, maybe i can just go ride it? just looking for some extra opinions. thanks!
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how should i go about learning to ride my kawasaki ninja 250?
- Thread starter korey h
- Start date
Buster Brown
New member
If you ride a dirt bike, you have the basic control skills. The rider course will teach you much more than that, however: good riding habits, hazard identification and avoidance, and some roadcraft. Some of the material may seem overly simple and basic too you, but overall, the course is well worth your time and money.
You could just go practice in a field or parking lot. Many of us learned that way in the old days, but the riding course is really a better method. If you are in the US, one advantage is that the BRC completion certificate will stand in lieu of a DMV-administered test in many states. In any event, you have a lot more to learn once you are out on the roads.
You could just go practice in a field or parking lot. Many of us learned that way in the old days, but the riding course is really a better method. If you are in the US, one advantage is that the BRC completion certificate will stand in lieu of a DMV-administered test in many states. In any event, you have a lot more to learn once you are out on the roads.
The very first thing I did was what you are wondering about - I sat on it and moved it around just to get the feel of the weight and the angles. Then I started it and let the clutch out ever so slowly so I knew where it actually engaged the gear - just rocking back and forth on your heels and toes. I did that a lot. You can't know your particular bike too well.
The rider's course is a great idea and so is riding/practicing in a parking lot BUT how to get there ? I had my friend drive my bike over since I had to go on a major highway to get to the mall parking lot.
I also practiced in my own neighborhood after everyone (practically) had left for work - so around 10 a.m. but you still have to watch out - I had someone back out of their driveway in front of me because they are thinking people have already gone to work too.
After I felt very comfy in my neighborhood I got up early in the a.m. and rode it over by myself to the mall to practice sudden stops, turns, parking, weaving etc.
When the traffic started getting a little busy, I went home until I could ride with a friend out on the highway. They pointed out to me the mistakes I was making, which is a great idea because you're so busy thinking about the next move you aren't aware of the mistakes you may be making.
Keep going - I've only ridden 9 months out of my entire life and I have old time Harley riders telling me that I really know how to ride. Wow - coming from them, I'm so flattered!
Just remember - treat your bike like your girlfriend or your boyfriend - start taking her/him for granted and you WILL GET BIT. Respect is the key !
Congrats on learning - you're gonna love it !
The rider's course is a great idea and so is riding/practicing in a parking lot BUT how to get there ? I had my friend drive my bike over since I had to go on a major highway to get to the mall parking lot.
I also practiced in my own neighborhood after everyone (practically) had left for work - so around 10 a.m. but you still have to watch out - I had someone back out of their driveway in front of me because they are thinking people have already gone to work too.
After I felt very comfy in my neighborhood I got up early in the a.m. and rode it over by myself to the mall to practice sudden stops, turns, parking, weaving etc.
When the traffic started getting a little busy, I went home until I could ride with a friend out on the highway. They pointed out to me the mistakes I was making, which is a great idea because you're so busy thinking about the next move you aren't aware of the mistakes you may be making.
Keep going - I've only ridden 9 months out of my entire life and I have old time Harley riders telling me that I really know how to ride. Wow - coming from them, I'm so flattered!
Just remember - treat your bike like your girlfriend or your boyfriend - start taking her/him for granted and you WILL GET BIT. Respect is the key !
Congrats on learning - you're gonna love it !