Skill Level: Tips for Beginner Motorcycle Riders
“Starting your journey as a motorcycle rider is thrilling, and it comes with responsibilities.”
Embarking on your journey as a motorcycle rider is an exhilarating experience that opens up a world of freedom, adventure, and adrenaline. The wind rushing past you, the hum of the engine, and the open road ahead create an unmatched sense of thrill.
However, with this excitement comes significant responsibilities to ensure your safety and build the confidence needed to navigate roads effectively. One of the most critical steps in this journey is committing to wearing proper safety gear every single time you ride.
Unlike the protective shell of a car, motorcycles offer minimal inherent protection, leaving riders far more vulnerable in the event of a crash. That’s why investing in high-quality, purpose-built gear is non-negotiable for anyone serious about staying safe.
Gear Up for Protection: The Essential Armor for Every Ride
At the top of your safety gear list is a DOT-approved full-face helmet. The full-face design provides comprehensive protection for your jaw, face, and chin—areas often impacted in crashes—while also shielding you from wind, debris, and harsh UV rays during long rides.
When choosing a helmet, ensure it carries the Department of Transportation (DOT) sticker, and consider models with additional certifications like ECE or Snell for even higher standards of protection.
Complementing your helmet, a motorcycle-specific jacket with integrated armor is essential for safeguarding your upper body.
Look for jackets constructed from abrasion-resistant materials like leather or heavy-duty textile blends (such as Kevlar or Cordura), reinforced with CE-rated armor at the shoulders, elbows, and back.
These impact-absorbing pads significantly reduce the severity of injuries from falls or collisions.
For gloves, prioritize full-fingered designs with hard knuckle protection and reinforced palms to maintain grip and shield your hands during slides. Your hands are critical for controlling the bike, so protecting them ensures you retain control even in challenging situations.
“A well-maintained bike is more reliable…”
Keeping your motorcycle in top shape is another key to safe riding. A well-maintained bike is more reliable and less likely to cause accidents due to issues like worn tires or low oil.
Before every ride, check your tire tread depth and pressure to ensure good grip on Utah’s diverse roads. Schedule oil changes and seasonal inspections and learn basic checks like chain tension or brake pad wear.
Fastback Moto offers affordable services like oil changes and tire checks in to keep your bike road-ready.
Riding defensively is crucial since motorcyclists are harder for drivers to spot. Always assume drivers don’t see you, keep a safe 3–4-second following distance, and use headlights and hand signals to boost visibility, even in daylight.
Watch for Utah-specific hazards like gravel or wet pavement, and avoid lingering in blind spots. Practicing defensive riding in low-traffic areas can build your confidence.
Choosing the right motorcycle sets you up for success.
A beginner-friendly bike with a low seat height and manageable power, like a 250–500cc model.
Orion RXB 250 or Kawasaki Ninja 400, helps you build skills without feeling overwhelmed. Test-ride bikes at a dealership to find one that fits comfortably. Avoid heavy or high-performance bikes until you’re more experienced.
Fastback Moto has community events like bike nights where you can learn from seasoned riders. By following these tips, you’ll hit the road safely and confidently—reach out to Fastback Moto for gear, services, or advice to kickstart your ride!