Motorcycles have inspired adrenaline seekers across generations to find new ways to make the everyday a little more exciting. So if you’re looking to spice up your morning commute or look cooler than cool wherever you go, CFMOTO USA’s line of motorcycles is perfect for you.

Just like our ATVs and side by sides, you can expect the same ultra-stylish sporty look, plus the performance you’ve come to rely on.

Not only can our machines stop traffic (metaphorically speaking) with their sleek and trendy good looks, they also boast the same power and consistent performance that allow you to truly ride without compromise.

As with any machine, there is a bit of a learning curve to their operation. Mastering the basics and gaining confidence is crucial to creating a thrilling and safe ride.

Pick up a few tips on learning to ride your new bike, straight from an ATV company, side by side manufacturer, and motorcycle maker that’s used to making machines that tackle both tough terrain and traffic.

TRY ONE NEW THING AT A TIME

When you first started practicing for your standard driving license, you didn’t just cruise out onto the freeway – we hope!

If you’re like most people, the process involves a lot of awkward stops and starts as you puttered around an empty parking lot before you even begin to think about dealing with other drivers.

Learning to drive a motorcycle is much the same. Even after you’ve gotten your license, you still might need to be restrained about pushing your comfort zone before you can take to the streets and feel the wind on your skin.

According to RideWell, a motorcycle safety and lifestyle blog, learning to ride a bike can best be broken down into three pillars:

  • 1. Balancing and maneuvering
    2. Operating the controls
    3.Navigating traffic


Our advice? Try to keep any given ride to only pushing one of these “pillars” at once. Confidence isn’t built overnight, and the best way you can foster it is through small, achievable, yet challenging goals.

Check out this post from Positive Psychology, which states that “overly complex goals that lie out of our skill level may become overwhelming and negatively impact morale, productivity, and motivation.”

LEARN TO DRIVE DEFENSIVELY

"Defensive driving” is big in Driver’s Ed, but it becomes even more important the second you sit yourself on your motorcycle.

When you’re on a bike, your vehicle is much smaller than the surrounding cars, and since you’re in the open air, your safety gear and driving skills are the only things that defend you as you cruise down the freeway. Plus, while your vehicle might be smaller and more agile in some cases, it’s also much more difficult to see on the highway, thanks to its size.

Long story short: if you don’t drive with your safety at the constant forefront of your mind, you’re taking a big risk.

So what’s defensive driving as it pertains to motorcycles, anyway? According to Road Guardians, “defensive driving means giving yourself the time and space to react.”

This means you need to be ultra-courteous. No tailgating, no recklessly bouncing through traffic, and no flooring it unless you need to get yourself out of a dangerous situation.

On the flip-side, though, don’t drive meekly, and don’t take to the big roads if you’re nervous. This only impairs your decision-making abilities, and when you’re biking, you always need to act decisively and with your safety as the primary concern.

GEAR UP & GET SAFE

Never skimp on the safety gear when it comes to your motorcycle. Sure, it might seem romantic to cruise down the highway with your hair flowing freely, but unless you want to risk a concussion or worse, wearing a certified riding helmet is the smarter way to go.

DMV.org also recommends thick boots, gloves, pants, and hearing protection.

We’d add on a jacket specially made for riding a motorcycle. Lots of these are made of leather, as the website above somewhat implies, but there are plenty of equally tough synthetic options available.

DON’T PUSH YOURSELF TOO QUICKLY

Learning to ride a motorcycle is similar to learning to drive a vehicle for the first time, although you’ll already have a leg up if you do have a vehicle license.

But while experience behind the wheel of a car translates somewhat, a motorcycle is a very different thing. You don’t have the protection a car provides, so wrecks or wipe-outs are much more dangerous.

It’s important to push yourself too much at first. While you may want to zip around corners and be an expert rider, give yourself time. Start with beginner rides and use common sense.

As you get more experience, you can explore more areas and up the speed.

TAKE A MOTORCYCLE SAFETY COURSE

If you’re purchasing a road bike and want to drive it legally on roadways, you’ll need to follow the legal requirements of your state. Most places require you to take a safety course and get a specific certification to drive your motorcycle on regular roads.

But, even if you intend to ride an off-road motorcycle or ATV, a safety course is still a wise idea.

IT’S COLDER THAN YOU THINK!

Sure, the temperature outside might be pleasant, but that can quickly drop 20 degrees or more when you’re on your bike at high speeds, thanks to the wind chill. You’ll get cold a lot quicker than you think, so make sure to pack and dress appropriately.

Here’s a handy chart from Beginner Riders, a motorcycle lifestyle blog, detailing how cold it feels at a particular temperature while traveling at a certain speed.

You can also check out our recommendations for staying warm. Being over prepared is better than being underprepared.

CFMOTO: FOR THE LOVE AND THRILL OF THE RIDE

Whether you’re into ATVs, side by sides, or motorcycles, we’ve got just the machine to fit your power and economic needs. Use our online CFMOTO USA Dealer Locator today and explore all your thrilling potential new purchases.

Or, reach out to us online to learn more about our motorcycles or to get more rider tips!