Total Motorcycle Community Forums

I'm almost 50. I took took the MSF course in December (23) and bought a bike in January '24'. 2014 Yamaha Bolt. I've spent the last four months learning how to control the bike. Slow speed left and right turns. U- turns, twistys (as they are called), neighborhood traffic... kids, animals, golf carts and the occasional stop sign. I practiced emergency breaking.... locking up front and back tires trying to understand what it's like to not have ABS like a car/ truck has and to know what it's like to lay the bike down because of rider error...a mistake. (Dropping a bike sucks!!) Then on to the highway. Accelerating to 65 plus Mph. Merging into to faster traffic. The vibrating helmet, blurry mirrors and wind that reminds me that I'm supposed to trust the bike and my tires but also says never forget.... no walls, no airbags just you, your bike, your gear and what you know about 2 wheels. Daunting for sure. Controlling the bike at slow speed has been the biggest challenge. Cuz it seems the the bike does what it's supposed to do when it's moving faster that 10mph. But when it's moving slow....a different skill set.



I've dropped the bike 3 times since I bought it. Once during a slow planned u-turn, second at an intersection with a car that I didn't see and the third in a parking lot with thick gravel I didn't anticipate. I try to chalk it up to being a new rider. I spent $5k not $25k for that reason. Each time I dropped it, was an angry experience. Pissed cuz I dropped my bike, mad cuz I knew why and pushed forward like an angry new rider saying pick it up and go again.



April is here. I'm making left and right turns, in the neighborhood. Getting on the highway doing 70+. Making uturns. Merging into faster traffic with more comfort. When do I get to the part when I enjoy the ride??

There are no barriers or airbags, just you, your bike, your gear, and what you know about two wheels; the wind, hazy mirrors, and vibrating helmet all serve as reminders that I should trust the bike and its tires. Fearsome, indeed. The most difficult part has been maintaining control of the bike while going slowly. Because at speeds over 10 miles per hour, the bike acts as intended. But a new set of skills is required when it's going slowly.

The initial challenges, especially with slow-speed maneuvers, are common for many new motorcyclists. As you gain more experience, those skills will naturally improve, allowing you to handle your bike with greater confidence. Enjoyment often comes with familiarity—once you’re comfortable with the bike’s responses and your own abilities, you’ll start to appreciate the freedom and thrill of riding. Remember to take breaks during your rides to absorb the experience and enjoy the scenery. Also, consider joining a local riding group or community; sharing experiences with others can enhance your enjoyment and provide valuable tips. Keep practicing, stay patient with yourself, and soon enough, you'll find joy in every ride.


Best,

Mrs. Lou

My mistake was riding a mountain bike that was too big for climbing when I didn’t have the experience. Learning from my experience, I think new drivers should learn to drive slowly and prioritize safety first. Risks should only be attempted when you have a fair amount of experience.

Hiiii,
You're making great progress as a new rider! It sounds like you've put in a lot of hard work and practice since taking the MSF course and getting your Yamaha Bolt. Dropping your bike can be frustrating, but it's part of the learning process, especially for beginners. It's impressive that you're already handling highway speeds and merging into traffic with more confidence. Enjoyment often comes with time and experience; as you continue to practice and gain comfort with your bike, you'll likely start to appreciate the freedom and thrill of riding. Keep pushing through the challenges, and soon you'll find yourself enjoying the ride even more!

have a nice day!!!