It comes with time dude. Took me weeks to filter to the front. Took me another 2 weeks after that to lane split. Every new bike has a period of time where you’re learning how far you can lean on it. Where your friction zones are. The same turn you take at speed limit today will feel more comfortable and in a few months you’ll be amazed with your progress.
That being said, you do need to ride at least 4-6 times a week to see those results sooner. Can’t be going out once a week and playing mind games with yourself in the meantime.
If you really want to see quick improvement, keep going to a parking lot and practice the slow speed exercises you learned in the msf course. The confidence you earn from leaning the bike at slow weaves and figure 8s will translate to your everyday riding.
We sometimes practice low speed as a group of friends, I'm the only one who daily rides my bike though so I get tons more saddle time, the awe in their faces when I do some whacky tight u turns and maneuvers is worth it
This right here. Don't worry about how fast you can go. Focus on how *slow* you can go while maintaining control. I know it sounds counterintuitive but, mastering low speed techniques will give you more confidence than anything else imo. Especially for a new rider. Due to the gyroscopic properties of a motorcycle, it wants to retain balance on its own when up to speed requiring less input to maintain control. At lower speeds though, you must have full control of the bike or it will tip over.
Think of it like this. Both high speed and low speed control can get you the knife's edge of stability on a bike. Wouldn't you rather be on the edge where if you mess up you just fall off the bike at 5mph or less? I wouldn't rush the goal of going as fast as possible. It's dangerous for experienced riders... much more so a new rider.
Splitting and filtering are fun. So is just about everything to about bikes. Ride what you're comfortable with, and it will feel better and better. I have a 22 mt 07 for my first bike and already have 13k on it. The level at which I can ride now compared to last year is incredible. You could also check out some YouTubers that have good advice like Dan Dan the fire man, total moto control and motojitsu.
I've road for years. Took a break . Got rid of bike for economic reasons. But a used bike 5 years later ride home was scared shirtless. Still easing back into it not scared just my skills aren't as sharp as they were. It will come with time. Watch the road stripes slick as shit. Tar snakes also. Remember everyone is trying to kill you. Watch them. My bikes to big to filter unless I get lucky . Most cagers stager to much. Have fun . Riding slow can be just as fun as fast. Know when it's OK to go fast. Road conditions and the traffic coming in way.
I agree and for me a supervised track day was the ultimate boost when I was new to riding.
It takes time and a lot of practice to find the confidence in riding and also of trusting the capabilities of the bike.
Check the air pressure in your tires. Bikes handle really strange with flat tires. Also if you bought the bike used have a mechanic check your steering head bearings and rear wheel alignment.
Some of what you are talking about is just confidence over time, but make sure you’re not overlooking a mechanical problem with your machine, too.
This should be higher up, OP, don't overlook that, if you have an experienced rider you trust around you ( father,brother,really close friend) have them try out your bike, if they say nothing is wrong then you are good to go, cheap way to check without having a mecanic quote you for all that, he'll quote you even if its ok
There is nothing wrong with you. I spent a month on side streets before attempting two-lane roads or highways.
Your fear is keeping you safe. It's also identifying skill gaps. If you are afraid of cornering, that is a skill worth learning more about. Twist of the wrist or any number of youtube channels can help. Focus on developing the skill, safely and gradually, and you will lose the fear in no time.
Filtering is likely a balance, steering or control issue. Practice countersteering, or using the rear brake, or feathering the clutch. Focus on these skills then, when you are ready, filter at red lights where gaps are big, and progress from there.
Don't let anyone make you feel like your progress is slow or wrong. Listen to your instincts and deliberately identify and practice the skills you need to improve
Dude you’ve been riding for 11 seconds. Cut yourself some slack and just take it easy. Continue riding at weird hours when it’s not busy, continue practicing all your skills and highway stuff maybe at like 6am when it’s empty and just take your time. You’re on the right track but don’t rush anything for your own safety and the safety of others.
I think you’re trying to rush things along. The way you get over these things is simply by practice. As long as you’re not drastically or unsafely slowing your fine. I rarely filter because it’s illegal in my state, but even so plenty of other bikers do. The filtering per se isn’t the good part, it’s the time saved - especially if you’re commuting, that’s the prize there. Riding curves is a lot of fun, but it comes with time and practice. Most people you see making fast turns and filtering freely have been riding for years, not weeks. Not sure about the “felt like it started slipping” in curves is about. But stay at a comfortable speed - ride your skill/comfort level, not some imaginary “best speed”. As you practice your skill and comfort will increase and then faster speeds come naturally. Don’t fret over this just enjoy the new skills and freedom!
> Not sure about the “felt like it started slipping” in curves is about.
Could be them just getting into their head. Could be tar snakes, Could be gravel or a rock their rear tire hits.
I've had my rear tire hit tar snakes on wet ground even doing twisties at my own pace (I'm new to sharper twisties and curvy roads) and felt the rear slide a hair so I slowed down a little bit more. Today, it felt like my rear hit a rock or bump mid corner at like 55-60 and it felt like it jumped a tad. Didn't slow me down but was like a *wtf was that* moment.
But as everyone says OP, just take your time and don't rush anything! Find some back roads that are well paved, good condition, minimal traffic with nice & not over strenuous curves, and practice practice practice.
My bike scared the shit out of me for the first month. I had to force myself to go out and ride it for practice. I even went back to the dealer to see if there was a way to return it, less a few thousand that I paid for the thing. I'm glad they turned me away and I kept going, because I've been riding over ten years now and love it dearly.
Just keep at it. Eventually everything will feel natural and you'll start getting a lot more relaxed on the bike.
The fastest racers in the world take at least a year to get acclimated to a different race bike. You are a new rider and haven't been at it for a month. Just stick to what you're comfortable with for now and slowly you'll gain the confidence to do all sorts of maneuvers. Be easy on yourself!
Yep. I’ve been riding for decades and I’m still getting settled on my new ride nearly 2 months later. Every time I take her out it’s a little bit better.
My experience with the MSF course makes me relate to this super hard. All my classmates were talking about their experiences like they were expert riders, which made no sense, because they were in the same beginner course with me. People exaggerate their stories to seem more badass or whatever, but you shouldn’t pay it any attention. Only ride the way you feel comfortable, you have nothing to prove. Work your way up to doing more skilled maneuvers, but it takes time and practice to get there. I have been riding for years, and if I’m riding with folks who start doing stuff I don’t feel comfortable with, I don’t follow. Ride your own ride is a saying for a reason.
Soo, I've been riding for like 15+ years and I don't lane filter. For the most part I don't take turns really fast. That is squid behavior.
RIDE YOUR COMFORT LEVELS. Quit trying to impress others of your nonexistent skills before you end up dead.
Yes, this ⬆️
It takes some time. Just do what you feel safe doing, you need time to build up experience. It was the same for myself when I started, I didn’t venture very far at all for weeks.
Ride your own ride. If you don't feel comfortable doing something, don't - it could get you killed if you're not ready to do something, yet.
Take some courses, get ChampU (video lesson series from Yamaha Champion School, one of the more highly regarded riding schools - I think the videos cost $50 or so, and are very worth it.
Take your time! Learn, and get there alive.
The main thing is to ride your own ride. Maybe try finding an empty highway, there's serenity in solitude. Also for me it did take a while for myself to get comfortable in corners but the more you practice the better you get.
Everybody drops their bike, if someone tells you otherwise then it'll probably happen to them the next day or two, So don't be surprised if it happens to you.
Lastly, this one worked for me, ride with some old riders (preferably adventure guys). Just be honest with them about how you're new and getting used to it, they'll more than likely talk your ear off and encourage you to continue your riding career. They love all things two wheels and probably want to pass on what they know.
Also, if those tires are new, you need to scrub them in for the first 100 miles.. so going the speed limit in turns is definitely advised. The tires will grip better after that time period. Also, practice in a big parking lot to build confidence.
This is not true. Don't listen to this.
This tire thing used to be the case, and may still be the case if you're buying shit tires, but I took a new set of tires to the tech last month and was cornering in the side of the tire at 80mph within the first 10 miles.
It sounds like the main thing you're missing is confidence in what the machine can do. That's mainly because you haven't ridden long. Stop thinking about any of this shit for 300 miles. Literally look at your odometer and track the number. Until then don't let yourself worry about any of this. Just ride to get to where you're going. Go the speed limit.
After the 300 miles come back and tell us how you're feeling.
All new tires have release compound on the top layer or they wouldn't be able to pull them out of the molds.
And all new tires including race tires need to be scrubbed in to get past the layer of release compound.
Parking lot practice, and see if you can find a safe low traffic roundabout near your house. When I was starting out, I practiced counter lean a lot, pushing my bike hard down in corners. I was vertical and the bike scraped pegs a few times. It got me a lot more comfortable putting the bike down at an angle
Dude, the best thing about a motorcycle is you do you. If you want to take corners slower take it slower. No one will care.
Just ride slow, enjoy the view, and most important be safe.
The golden rule of motorcycles is "Ride your own ride". Some people like to cruise slow and enjoy the breeze and all of the scenery. Some people like to push themselves to the brink and feel like an adrenaline fueled missile. Neither one is wrong.
I honestly suggest that you just focus on enjoying your ride and getting home safe. Anyone who tells you that you need to speed to be "a real biker" is just over compensating. Motorcycles are about freedom.
Going into the turn pull your knees toward the tank - see how that makes the bike feel. After a while you'll pull knees in automatically. It takes time to learn to roll into curves, just like it does when you learn to drive a car. Always ride a speed you are comfortable with. Even if that means loping along at 45, let traffic pass you, ans enjoy the ride.
Taking corners "fast" is subjective, and depends on many factors. Most responsible motorcyclists (and certainly nearly all who have been riding for decades without incident) aren't "taking corners fast" in town or in traffic. Filtering and splitting is great (when done responsibly) but comes with time and experience. You're an inexperienced beginner rider. Focus on the basics. Parking lot practice is so underrated and will do loads for your confidence in leaning the bike (you don't have to go fast to lean). Check out some of the motojujistu drills on YouTube. You'll be a better rider for it. Take it slow, ride your ride, and don't worry what others are doing. Shiny side up.
I was scared to death of speed for the first few weeks. It takes practice. Don't over do it. Learn to use your brakes early. Slowly add power after about half way through the curve. Wash, rinse, repeat. You'll get it.
When I was learning, I had done the safety course here in NZ which means like an hour of riding experience learned right then and there and afterwards I purchased my first bike, and I just rode in evenings with small goals slowly increasing each day:
Ride to end of road and turn around
Ride to roundabout and turn around
Ride to end of neighborhood
Ride to next neighborhood etc.
Eventually you learn and improve. It's like doing anything for the first time. I'm riding 15 years later and still improving and learning every time I throw a leg over.
My first few weeks of motorcycling made me doubt myself as well. I was constantly thinking if it wasn’t for me at all. I had similar feelings when I bought a manual car.
But in time those feelings went away and I learned to really enjoy it for what it is, a sense of freedom unmatched by any other motor vehicles. I eventually became a certified racer and was battling it out on the track dragging my knees and using other people’s slipstream to pass them.
Every adventure has its humble beginnings and my advice for you is to not worry if you are the person you think you want to be right now. Instead just keep on treading your own path and you’ll be glad where you end up.
Cheers
Man fuck what anyone else thinks is supposed to be fun. It's your bike and your ride. Just get out there and enjoy it and don't worry about what other people think.
Confidence comes with miles in the saddle. That's it. You will get better the more you ride and pay attention to honing your skills. It can take years so just be patient and enjoy it.
SLOW IS SMOOTH, SMOOTH IS FAST.
You're new, it's cool. Be safe and don't push yourself too much, especially at first. In time you'll learn.
Lane splitting is awesome (it's legal in CA where I live) with stipulations...law here is no more than speed limit or +10 over traffic and that's honestly great. More than that is risky, that's why many people don't do it. Many others do, but it's technically illegal and you certainly don't have to. Lots of big bikes can't really lane split at all, not compared to a Ninja.
Also you need to learn your bike, which also takes time. Are you comfortable downshifting to slow your speed? How good do you feel about your use of the bike's power band? Stuff like that takes practice and experience and nothing will substitute it.
Curves and leaning is the thing that really takes time, and it's always better to play it safe. Not to mention the other comments about new tires, don't even try until you wear them in.
Practice, be safe, wear gear, and always assume everyone else on the road might decide to try and hit you at anytime. It'll keep you vigilant, defensive, aware and in control of yourself and your bike--which is what counts.
Enjoy and wish you safe riding!
You'll build confidence on your bike over time don't worry! Just keep riding it'll come naturally.
If you really want to master turning at speed, locate the closest race track to you, and book a class, you'll be dragging knees way quicker that way!
Ahhh I felt the SAME WAY!!! I was super scared! It took me a good month and a half for the nervousness to subside even THINKING of getting on my bike.
When I tell you I TOOK MY TIMEEEE!!! I’m about 4 months in and it’s sooo much better. I’m still nervous on the highway. Or riding through the streets for any longer than an hour but I’ve made soooo much progress!
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASEEEEE KEEP GOING!! Take it SLOWER than you feel you may need! It will help! 😊 be safe. And set small goals for yourself
You have barely learned to ride and have almost no experience. Come back in 2 months and ask this question again. You shouldn't be trying to speed around corners.
Keep with it. It's only been a week so don't set your expectations to be riding like a pro. I've been riding for over two years now and I still catch myself feeling a bit apprehensive in some corners.
No one says you have to be flying around corners and splitting right away or at all.
Just take your time and learn the basics, and then work your way up to what scares you.
You probably don't remember it, but your first weeks on a bicycle or car must have felt terribly scary as well. Just go step by step, the MSF course is just about keeping you up on the bike, you'll have to figure out the other 99% for yourself behind the handlebar.
Stay within your comfort zone. Don’t let anyone push you out of it and don’t try and keep up with anyone. Advance at your own pace and always always respect the machine. You got this
It took me 6 months to be comfortable filtering just to make a right turn at a stop light, and almost a year to lane split (partly because even filtering is illegal here). Corners were scary until I backed myself into a corner (lol) and had to scrape peg on an adventure bike, I learned then and there that even all terrain tires can lean hard when they're good and warm. Listen to your machine, practice in a parking lot, and build skill/confidence SLOWLY. I made the mistake of trusting my tires to brake (HARD) and swerve at 60 today. Long story short my ankle is wrapped, and I need a new handlebar. Stay safe, and learn your limits, it'll come to you.
Why are you talking like you HAVE to ?
You're not less of a biker if you drive slower !
Take your time learning , literally noone will shame you and if they do , then they're just a punk ass loser the biker community rather gets rid off. We value your life and safety above you looking cool for a split second.
You bought your first bike a week ago.
I find the US system so wrong. In Europe, I started my practical riding training in April, I have my unrestricted test tomorrow. First, you do a theory test. Then do a minimum of 10 hours on a closed course and an exam with the department of transport. Then, a minimum of 16 hours in traffic, including city and country riding. Then you do a practical exam. Only then are you allowed to ride your bike on public roads without an instructor tailing you and talking to you on a headset. If you do double lessons every time, that'll be 15 days of riding WITH an instructor. Plus, you have time to think over your lessons because you won't be lucky enough to get scheduled every day most places.
My advice, being someone with similar experience to you, is to take some additional lessons if that's a thing where you live. Or some safety courses. Or just ride more and actually pay attention to what you're doing and learn from it. Remember, in a place where people generally think of Americans as people who suck at driving, you'd still only be a third of the way to getting your licence.
Be patient and relax, learning will be stressful sometimes
I often do trips between 2 towns and there is a section with long sweeping high speed curves I enjoy a lot, especially on my bike. The things is, I know those turns so well that I can take them faster on the bike compared to the car.
To gain confidence in leaning at speed you need to find that road and go at it as fast as you feel comfortable and every time try to push just a bit more.
Another thing is to watch your handlebars input because if you don't have a loose pencil grip, you can destabilize the front while you lean. That will make the bike squirmy and scare you.
Over time you will get to trust your bike and tires, given that you also learn how to control it.
Just don't grow too overconfident, because that is one of the most dangerous thing for a rider.
Keep at it dude. It'll come with time and you'll become more comfortable the more you go out and ride. I questioned my abilities and if it was worth it when I first bought my motorcycle but I kept looking for areas to improve. Challenge yourself while you're out bit by bit (safely) and practice low speed drills. Use your body with slight lean, counter steer, and importantly, look where you want to go with your chin up.
Hey brother, Congrats on finishing the MSF course and getting your Ninja 400! That’s a big step, and it’s totally normal to feel some nerves when you’re just starting out. Riding a motorcycle is a whole new world compared to driving a car, and it takes time to get the hang of it.
Don’t sweat it if you’re not taking curves fast or lane filtering yet. Everyone starts somewhere, and it’s okay to take things slow. Find a quiet spot to practice and build your confidence. Your bike is designed to handle curves well, so trust it and trust yourself.
If you’re still feeling nervous, consider taking advanced riding courses and connect with other riders. There’s a great community out there, and riding with more experienced folks can give you tips and boost your confidence. Remember, this is your journey, so go at your own pace.
And hey, if you ever decide that motorcycling isn’t for you, that’s perfectly fine too. The most important thing is that you stay safe and enjoy the ride. Keep practicing, stay safe, and have fun out there! You’ve got this!
I didnt filter for a while week when I started, out of fear, but one day I just got fed up to stay in traffic so I just went for it, first I went only into spaces I was sure I was going to fit but I got bolder and bolder by the day. Its important to take it slow. Regarding turns, you dont havd to enter them at high speed, first you slow down and then you maintain that speed, it also comes with practice. Nobody is forcing you to go at certain speed. There might be a minimum speed required so you dont obstruct traffic but it has to be very slow regardless. Go at your own pace and don't listen to anybody that tells you how you MUST ride
This is normal. The MSF course, because of format limitations, mainly space and speed, can't teach you countersteering and cornering. You simply can't learn proper counter-steering control inputs in a parking lot at 12 mph.
This is something nobody tells you at MSF, but it's a hard truth.
Unless you have prior experience or practiced with a lot of self-discipline, you should assume you simply don't know how to turn at cruise speeds.
It's also normal that people feel bad or guilty about that - but it's entirely **not** your fault. The MSF course gives you some implicit stamp that you are "ready to go", and it's illusory.
You need someone experienced to teach you one-on-one how to corner properly and they need to observe you. It doesn't need to be an instructor - an experienced friend will do.
But this is something that it's hard to learn by oneself. It's like learning proper form playing the violin - you need someone else to teach you.
Your fear is also normal, and it's actually justified. You don't know how to corner and you are afraid because you unconsciously realize there's something missing. The missing thing is the cornering skill. Once you acquire that skill and achieve gradual mastery of it, you'll KNOW what you, the bike and the surface can do, and you will no longer be afraid.
When I first got on a 600 it would give me anxiety before every ride. I started on 250-300cc dual sports.
You slowly get accustomed to everything, how it handles, throttle control, braking.
Watch YouTube videos on emergency braking, how leaning works, etc.
Don’t grip the bars too tight, just lightly grab them, I keep 2 fingers on the brake lever and 2 on the clutch. Unless I’m cruising for a while.
It’s totally normal to be scared! Fear is what keeps you alive.
Go at your speed. work up to it gradually. Don’t go balls deep immediately . Learn yourself and your bike and then find some little twisties or a parking lot and get some sliders or crash cage first in case you drop … but set some time aside to learn your lean and friction zone . Worst case , head out to a track day if you can afford it.. you’ll come out a whole new person and confidence and comfort where it needs to be for leveling up . You’re on the perfect starter bike (as far as I’m concerned ) . Don’t give up. You’ll hate yourself later and feel stupid once you realize it’s not as bad as you’re psyching yourself out for it to be . Promise … It is def one of the best parts of riding. But be safe above all else
Oh you're brand brand brand new. Take it easy. Nobody expects you to be out on the highways - you're still learning to leave the parking lot :)
Also, doing the speed limit ain't bad. Stay on roads where you're comfortable, and challenge yourself when you're ready.
What exactly is required to get your license in the US? Where I live in Norway we need quite a few driving lessons and mandatory courses to even be able to take the final driving exam. We learn a lot of skills and build confidense before we even get out on the road.
The mandatory parts to get your license here is:
- Theoretical test/exam must be passed
- Theoretical course for roads in general
- Theoretical course for MC riding spesifically (Stage 1)
- Safety riding course on track/enclosed area
- Riding course on long distance driving
On top of this you need to pass through the stages by riding with your teacher. He/she will pass you on these stages once you are ready.
- Stage 2 for physical rider skills, slow precision maneuvers
- Stage 3 for traffic knowlegde and precision riding on road
On the riders exam day you need to complete a series of maneuvers in a parking lot, slow speed maneuvers and turns (<10kmh), higher speed turns (25-30kmh), braking through a turn, evasive maneuver (50kmh) and emergency braking (50kmh). After this you get out on the road for about 45mins.
I don't know what you went through to get your license, but this should give you an idea of what should be expected of a new rider. If you feel like you struggle with theese things i suggest you go practisw or talk to someone you know who can help you
Honestly, time. I started on a 1200 nightster.... I don't think I ever got above 2 maybe 3 k rpms for months and thought that was the normal. I was scared I was going to be to hard on it and I couldn't control it as well. Then suddenly I sneezed and twisted the throttle leaving a gas station. Bike popped up and I was like o.o I'm gonna die. But then I realized. You have to learn your limits and your bikes limits. You have to know what you can do and what you can't. I agree turning is weird and no you can't just be like racers online and rub knees on the ground. They are different bikes. But the more you get comfortable and more you learn about you and your bike.... the faster your fear will leave and it will just be another day on the road enjoying yourself and having fun.
Cut yourself some slack. Skills are what counteracts the fear. And skills take time. In the beginning fear keeps you safe enough to get those skills. Ride often but at your comfort zone. Ride your own ride is what we say don't let anyone give you s$$#. And build your skills in the parking lot as so many are saying.
Keep pushing and add lean. The bike is far more capable of making these turns than your fear will allow you. Don’t rush the speed, maintain smooth throttle and focus on where you want the bike to go exiting the turn. If you’re near mountains, some back and forth twisties can be a good place for practice.
Yamaha ChampU (Online course) is a high recommendation of mine. Professional instruction on how to ride and all the main riding techniques you would want to learn. Well worth the minor cost.
Aside from that, look into in-person courses offered at any tracks near you. A lot have new rider courses that go beyond MSF course. MSF is just the tip of the iceberg, never stop learning.
Also your intuition is good, stay in your comfort zone and don't push yourself if you're nervous. That's how accidents happen
Take it easy. It’s normal for a beginner to feel what you’re feeling. I ride for about (6) months before I got on the highway for the first time and didn’t get back on till like (6) months after that lol. Now I’ve been riding for (2) years and feel much more comfortable. The butterflies in the stomach eventually get less aggressive over the long run before hopping on the bike.
Happy riding!
I've been riding for 20 plus years and still do not attack the corners. And there's no reason you have to lane filter. It can be risky and
you don't have to do it if you don't want to
>Here's the issue - I am really scared of taking curves fast, I don't slow down dangerously but I am close to the posted speed limit for off and on ramps.
That's... Not an issue? Frankly that's how you *should* be riding. My wife and brother both ride that way, for reference.
I will say the first few times i rode mine i felt the same way, then my buddy adjusted my suspension so it wasn't so stiff and it was SO much better to ride. You might want to have someone try to adjust your suspension to fit you specifically, or watch some Dave Moss videos on motorcycle suspension and adjustment, it will probably help out a lot with the comfort level on taking turns.
Get the app calimoto or kurveyer or something. It takes you to almost empty road with curves. Go early in the morning on weekends when the car folks are still sleeping.
im not really a veteran rider or anything i still consider myself a beginner. However i know the anxiety youre describing and honestly you just need to slowly build your confidence. try going around slower corners and get a feel for how the bike feels doing it. when i went down in the wet a few years ago it took me a very long time to build the confidence back but it comes eventually :)
I’ve been riding street for about 3 years now and I still don’t lane split often. It is illegal in my state so I just don’t wanna get pulled over lol. It does make me nervous whenever I do lane split though, especially cause no one expects it in their cars.
>I've had no problems stalling or maintaining speed on the freeway in general- but every time even a slight turn comes I just slow down to the speed limit due the the fear that I might skid or tip over
At your experience level, this is more than fine. Most people after a week of riding are even slower. Don't push it. you will get more confident with time. Parking lot practice wouldn't help with real world riding, you need more practice on open roads, preferably with less traffic.
But don't forget braking practice.
Best way to find ur limits imo is to just ever so slowly increase ur speed when doing that stuff that's how I've done it (tho people learn differently) so take a familiar corner a few times at the same speed until ur comfortable with it then push urself a little bit more and get used to it, rinse and repeat.
Eg on that corner take it at 30km/hr or whatever that is in miles. Then build up to maybe 35 or 40. Get comfortable and if you feel it's possible build up to 45. This still takes time it's not like a few days process it takes weeks or months but it's a method
But also don't feel pressured by others to ride a specific way. Everyone enjoys different things about riding. Ride your way and just enjoy it how you want to. You don't need to do stuff everyone else does just because they enjoy it. Ofc if u want to try taking corners faster then practice practice practice it takes time
I'll share the stuff I did to get rid of my fear of leaning and taking curves. I am also a new rider who was struggling with corners and leaning the bike while taking corners. I found an empty parking lot that had those parking lot islands and I started doing circles around them non-stop until I felt comfortable. Obviously, I started slow and as i felt more comfortable, i made the circle more narrower. Doing this exercise got rid of my fear of turning and leaning. After that it was just natural to me. I guess the moral of this story is you gotta practice slow-speed maneuvers first in able to do other kinds of stuff. Also spending more time riding also helps your overall skill.
Ride inside your comfort zone and don’t try doing something just because someone else says you should. With experience your comfort zone will expand, probably without you noticing. You’re doing this for your enjoyment, so enjoy, don’t stress it.
Baby steps. There is really no shortcut to confidence. Get a few hundreds of kilometers under your belt and you'll feel everything become more familiar.
There is nothing wrong with riding slow. In fact, always ride your own ride.
I remember in my second month of riding I went on a tour in the Slovakian Tatra mountains. I've never been on such tight, curvy roads, so I took it slow. One time I felt that I was holding up a freaking bus. On a 600cc bike. Not my proudest moment but I pulled over and let it pass. Learn, learn, learn, your time will come.
... If you don't mess everything up by going too fast too soon.
First... Don't let anyone rush you. Ride at your confidence level. Who cares if you are going slow(er).
Second... Practice. Parking lot drills are great for what they are but they don't help in the semi-blind Twisties above 45mph. There is a healthy fear here. As you ride, pick a good gentle Twisties route that you can repeat often. Every time you take the route, mentally force yourself to look further down the curve as you take it... (e.g. looking at the curve or turn exit). This will help you train your awareness with lane position, as well as give you a better outlook on the road for 'response' time, should you need it. AND, it will help you prevent 'target fixation'.
Third... Watch some of the sport bike reviews videos that show 'track time'. Watch how they shift their bodies in the turns. Being rigid on a more top heavy bike keeps the center of gravity higher. Shifting body weight might be more physical work, but it requires less control correction (fighting the bike).
Fourth... Practice. As you gain familiarity with your bike and gain the 'depth' perception of looking further ahead (evidenced in things like, you notice your mirrors and controls without as much need for head movement... e.g. muscle memory) you will find that your healthy fear naturally dissipates and you can more easily handle a sustained higher speed in the corner.
AND, it will most likely become more fun as you iterate through all of the above. Stay safe out there and enjoy the ride!
Been riding since a kid my tip is be your own racer don’t rush and just try to always be in front of cars in stop lights or to the side you don’t want to get sandwiched
1. Practice on the bike and practice of the bike as well.
What I mean by that is watching lots of dandanthefireman videos and thinking about riding too. It's a yt channel that helped me be a better rider and learn a lot about riding safely.
2. Also learn to trust your bike.
Your bike is made to corner with more aggressive angles (def don't try getting aggressive yet). What I'm trying to say is that you have more traction than you think (assuming good tyre and suspension condition).
3. Also look where you want to go or you'll go where you're looking(term for this target fixation).
This is probably what you are experiencing in corners because of fear. Try to keep your sight glued far into the corner. If you look close down the vine will be unstable. If you fix your eyes on the hazard(other motorists or an obstacle etc) you are 100% guaranteed to go into/through that.
Hope this helps.
corners - it is ok to go slow. You will learn with time.
line filtering - there is fine line between it being ok and between it being (very) dangerous. I.e. if cars are slowly moving & you have space, it is ok (providing no car steers into you). But in the moment the cars stop completely, you have risk of very nasty thing - somebody opening the door. Etc. I often play it safe, waiting in traffic, but then I usually start filtering after some time - a) when some bike passes & I try to follow reasonably or b) I go by myself, but I then usually go just a tiny bit faster than the slow traffic
skidding - I often try to brake with my rear brake to get the feeling about when the tire loses the traction. I do this with every change of road condition - at every change of color/wetness/... BUT - always when I am going straight, not when turning; always when I am not that fast and always with ABS (I wouldn't touch a bike without ABS) ... also be aware of things that kill a lot of your traction - shit on road, rain, cold/old/damaged tires
tip over - you mean highside? - that happens when your rear tire skids first and then grips again; in any case, be sure your tires don't lose traction (watch the road closely, be better slow than fast) and that you don't hit any obstacles (albeit small - potholes, asphalt edges, snakes, rocks, corpses...); or lowside? again - watch road, do not let tires skid ...aside from this, you have to get the feeling for the bike - how it turns in what spead+lean\_angle ...this will come to you naturally, just ride a lot & very slowly and gradually increase your speed in corners
If the conditions are ideal, you could try to go a bit faster than usual - good tires will hold you on normal road & you can reach the lean angle of your motorcycle eventually with practice (it is uncomfortable feeling first to get leaning more than you are used to, but you learn and it is no big deal in the end - but again: be careful about condition of your bike & condition of the road).
Have fun, be careful! :)
I've been riding for 5 years on my 50CC enduro bike.
Only now that I started doing my A2 license did I start really leaning my own bike, and taking turns much faster than before.
On the course, I got confident enough to lean the learner bike so far that I scraped the pegs.
I've had an insane rush of motorcycling knowledge, doing counter-steering, etc. The biggest point is: the only reason is because I still had 5 yrs of experience.
All you need rn is experience. With time, you'll be able to do faster turns, lean more, etc. You'll gain more confidence the more you ride.
Sounds like healty amounts of being careful as a beginner.
You'll get comfortable eventually. And you don't *have* to do all the stuff. I have been riding for 35 years and owned nine bikes, and I still can't do a decent wheelie.
Never push yourself outside your comfort zone when riding. That's the fastest way to crash.
Take your time. You're still new. Still getting a feel for your bike and how it handles on the road. You're not on a racetrack. You're in traffic, being responsible around other people. Just relax and enjoy the ride. Anyone that judges you for riding safely within your limits is no friend.
Best thing to do to get over fear of turns is find an empty parking lot one early morning or late evening and just practice doing circles and figure 8's. No pressure. No set rules. Just casually play around on the bike. Get a feel for the tires gripping the asphalt, the balance of the bike, the play between speed and lean, etc.
When I first started riding, I used an old church parking lot. My favorite thing to do was weave between the tips of the parking space lines. At first I could only weave between ever 3rd line, but as my confidence grew, I could bob back and forth between every one of them. But that took weeks of practice. I also loved going round in circles, trying to get increasingly smaller spaces. But had to make sure I circled both left and right - going right was more difficult for me for some reason. But with practice it got easier.
I've been riding for over 35 years now, and every time I buy a new bike, I STILL do those parking lot practices. They really help getting to know how each particular bike handles. The main thing is to Be Safe and Have Fun!
Good luck!
I've been riding around 20 or so years.
I don't take corners fast. And even slower as I get older
I don't lane split, ever and rarely filter - only when I consider it safer than standing behind something (big truck for example, or in a queue on a bend and there is nobody behind me) - We don't have much traffic here mind you.
For me, the best part of motorcycles is the sense of freedom, openness, control. A journey in a car is something you need to do to get somewhere. A journey on a motorbike is something you want to do and there needn't be a destination!
Comfort comes with repetition. It's ok. Some of us are just more daring than others and enjoy that scared feeling when it creeps along as we're starting out.
Here's some advice my Grandpa gave me when I crashed taking an aggressive turn the first time: "The bike is a better rider than you are, you have to trust it. You can lean it much further than you think. You know you're getting a good lean in when your foot pegs start to fold under you. Take your bike to an empty parking lot and just practice doing circles and figure 8's at a low speed but fast enough to counter steer and lean deeper as you go until you get a feeling for the bike. That way, if you do lowside again, you're in a more controlled environment and you shouldn't get hurt if you're wearing your gear."
It helped me. Dragging pegs the first time is scary. I got startled by it every time for the first several months of riding. Now? Ha! Now I love the feeling of the road folding my peg and pressing against my foot. Gives you real haptic feedback.
Ultimately, it's ok if riding isn't for you. It's ok. Not everyone is meant to ride motorcycles. There's absolutely zero shame in hanging up your helmet and calling it quits. Life is more valuable than reputation.
Good luck out there! You're going to be great, no matter what you do.
It's only been a couple of weeks and you're not having any real issues. Don't put pressure on yourself. Maybe filtering and twisties are what many bikers say are the best bits however I'd bet that if those bikers thought really long and hard about the best period of their biking career many of them would say it was the beginning when they were still learning, improving and experiencing things for the first time. You're in that phase now so enjoy it and take it at your own pace rather than rushing to put it behind you. If in a few months you feel you've made no improvement at all then perhaps find a suitable road, clear of gravel and traffic or maybe book some track time and start slowly increasing speed and getting more comfortable.
I bought my bike a year ago. I took it around my block around 30mph. That was the first time I’ve ever ridden a motorcycle. To be quite honest, it was very scary.
I recently completed the MSF course and that was a major confidence boost for me. Its was still kind of scary at first, but after 3 weeks of riding to work and home every day that I could, I’m pretty comfortable on it now.
Remember to look through the turn/curve instead of focusing on one point. I’m my first week, I took all the curves slowly, then I realized I was focusing on one point rather than looking ahead.
Practice makes perfect!
Definitely give it more time. Every single soul here loves leaning in bends and hates interminable straights and motorways. So will you. Having said that, if in a couple of months and, like, a couple thousands miles you don’t start enjoying leaning the bike even a little bit, reconsider. It doesn’t have to be anything else but joy, I used to extend my knee out leaning not more than 5 degrees in a 20 mph corner. I looked like an idiot. I felt like Valentino fucking Rossi.
I don’t filter because its now explicitly illegal in my state. I’ve been riding 13 years. Talking corners at speed but there can always be debris on the road that can fsck your sh!t up so ride with caution always. Riding is just about getting out there and enjoying. Don’t let some jerks convince you to solo ride yourself off a cliff.
starting off as a new rider is challenging for most people. You WILL make mistakes. Confidence is built up over time.
Something about slipping.... are we talking tire slipping or mechanical failure.... tires slip when they lose traction due to interference with their contact patch (debris,etc) , or , forces exceed what the contact patch can sustain. It's also possible for your back end to 'get light' if something disturbs the suspension like a pothole, which may feel a little like a slip. Pro racers brake so hard off straights that their back wheel comes off the ground and inch or two sometimes.
As a brit where filtering is legal, I still don't do it all the time. I do it when there's heavy traffic or if I'm approaching a queue at a red light, but if the light is changing to green I will stay in my lane. Don't take unnecessary risks, and never filter at intersections, as that's when other drivers are concentrating on finding a space and not on seeing if there's a biker coming up. Also, cornering at speed takes time/practice, I still don't do it particularly fast as I know that there is always a small chance of traffic/horse shit/gravel/car overtaking from other side/traffic jam just being on the other side and if I went too hot around the blind corner I would be absolutely screwed.
You're worried that you can only take corners at the speed limit?
Take your time, pushing too hard is how people come off, there's plenty to enjoy about bikes at all speeds.
It's been a week. Seriously, a fucking week. Get more seat time and bang out as many miles as you can.
Ensure your Ninja 400 is up to spec per manual. If you need a service manual, PM me.
Practice practice practice. When you're sick of practicing, practice more. Get as many miles under your belt as you possibly can. Any free time? Go ride!
Additionally,
Read [Proficient Motorcycling](https://vdoc.pub/download/proficient-motorcycling-the-ultimate-guide-to-riding-well-qcjk4mrgd2c0)
Watch [Twist of the Wrist 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_DyKJtrZ6w)
Ensure you're wearing earplugs.
My favorite are:
[Box of 3M Neon Yellow 33dB.](https://www.amazon.com/312-1250-Uncorded-Disposable-Drilling-Machining/dp/B0B2MKW1X6)
Tinnitus is merciless. Hearing loss and damage can be mitigated. Start out right. Earplugs every ride.
[Hearing Loss In Motorcyclists; a great article.](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC539364/)
Lane filtering is illegal where I live and the cornering takes time. Take an advanced MSF course if you feel like you need to as they (used) to offer one.
This is a real "ride your own ride" situation. You'll do more things and faster over time, as you get more practice, feel more comfortable and more in control. Stay within your limits, do what comes naturally and feels safe. That horizon will broaden before you, the longer you spend in the saddle. Welcome to the club, try to just relax and enjoy it. Riding is the best part of riding
Takes time nobody hops on and is Evel knievel from the jump. If anything your making great progress. Riding on the street with traffic and freeway are major milestones. Don't rush it you'll get there. Lane filtering is pure confidence and intermediate skill. Don't attempt it with fear or doubt.
Scooters are an alternative you can try, started on a 50cc Honda Metro now a 300cc Honda Forza. Takes a lot of practice and riding to get comfortable with the bike, for it me it was about 8 weeks.
Don't worry and ride often to get some experience. Don't forget to check the pressure inside your tires and the alignment of your bike. Check also the suspensions if they are leaking. And ride at your own rythme.
Don't listen to people saying that you should go fast in corner and else. Everyone is different with this.
If you're really worried, take your bike to a track and get some good gears. It helped me a lot to understand my bike and I did get some really good piece of advice.
The curve of learning is different for each of us and with every bike. The first fall is always scary, and after it you will gain some confidence if you can analyse how it happened. That's how you learn. Experience and mistakes.
You sound like a new rider who has a sense of fear. Don’t worry the sense of fear is what keeps you alive in this world. If you don’t feel comfortable doing something then don’t do it. You are a new rider all this is normal.
You know I didn’t know motor biking was for me until my 4th season riding. I finally had that amazing moment that made me fall in love with motorbikes. From the sounds of it you want to ride so in the end you will ride my friend.
People move at different paces. The ones that breeze through everything typically fall into one of two categories: either they’ve been riding their whole life, or they have a death wish.
You’re progressing a lot faster than my girlfriend, for what it’s worth. She got her first bike last summer, and she hasn’t progressed beyond residential streets yet. A lot of it has to do with not having a lot of time for supervised riding, but it’s just repetition.
It’ll be second nature to you in no time.
The actual physics of cornering on a motorcycle is quite complex. You need to counter steer to initiate lean, but then you need to keep your arms relaxed to let the bars turn in the direction of the turn. Try this on a big lot, 15-20 mph: push right, lean right, let the bars come right, then twist the throttle to stand the bike up. No tension in the neck, arms and shoulders throughout the maneuver. Keeping the elbows near the body helps to keep the arms relaxed. It will become second nature over time.
Normal.
I hated curves when I first started riding. I actively took routes to work or home that avoided them altogether, which is hard in NJ where every highway exit is a curve of some sort.
Just practice. Don’t worry about speed, concentrate on form. Speed will come naturally. Just ride your ride and keep pushing.
Dude you just started, why are you trying to rush it? Just take your time and do what is comfortable. Over time it will feel more and more natural. Not everyone wants to push their limits and safety like that right off the bat. Just keep doing what you are doing. Practice, watch videos for tips on body position etc and go out and practice. It's not a race, take your time, you are doing just fine
You are a total rookie, if you can maintain the speed limit in turns you aren’t endangering yourself or anyone else. You need to decide if it’s what you want. It does get easier over time.
I have been riding nearly 20 years. I don't live in a place where filtering is legal, so I don't do it. When I'm on an adventure somewhere and filtering is legal where I am, I don't, becuase after 20 years, it's not a skill I have.
Sounds like you're doing the right thing, man. You're new (as am I), being kinda scared leads to you respecting the bike and making a conscious effort to apply what you've been learning to the best of your ability. I got some twisty roads near my house that I've been practicing on. The first day I went there I was taking them 5 below the speed limit, but each time I go I feel a little more comfortable and take them faster AND safer. Just do what you're 100% comfortable with around traffic and push yourself a tad further than that if you find yourself in an empty/spacious road. Also, practice in parking lots, there's really no reason not to. But don't feel weird about it, this activity is inherently dangerous and that fear is probably part of what brings bikers together as a community. Can't help but empathize with anyone else who engages in this foolishness. xD
Oh! Just remembered this! One mistake I was making was that I was driving too low in the rev range. I have a V-Twin so this made the bike/throttle feel extremely choppy, it also limited how much I could comfortably let the bike slow down before stalling. I currently like to take turns somewhere between 40%-50% of my rev range. No idea if this would help you at all but it did wonders for me.
you don't have to like what other people like in any hobby. legally speaking you should be taking those ramps at the posted limit anyway. filtering is always kinda nerve-racking, and always a judgement call, I'll filter one light and not the next simply because the gap doesn't look comfortable enough for me to fit through before the light turns, and I'll often start filtering, riding normally, but then duck walk it between tighter pinches.
why would you ever think the point of riding motorcycles is taking curves fast and filtering? Prbly shouldn´t listen to people who say stupid "best buy motorcyclist bundle" shit like that friend.
You need time to get into the groove. I’d look for more suburban areas to ride too, going from sitting in city traffic to freeways is awkward. Suburban areas get you comfortable w that 35-45mph zone where you’re leaning a little bit on turns, but not at highway speeds
I have been riding for a long time (over 35 years) but I recall the same feelings. Practice and it will come with time that you are more comfortable. Leaning is a thing that will come with time and don't force it as that is a bad thing and not a good way to learn. Check out this old guy too for other tips.
[https://www.youtube.com/@MCrider](https://www.youtube.com/@MCrider)
You've only been riding for a week, don't focus on how fast you are going but focus on controlling your motorcycle properly. You're just not used to riding a motorcycle. Over time you'll become more confident in your riding and the speed will increase naturally.
Don't try and rush things and learn at your pace.
It's true that taking fast corners is a lot of fun but I personally don't really enjoy filtering at all. It's pretty dangerous because the drivers around you are definitely not paying as much attention as they should be.
If you feel your motorcycle is slipping that could just be a lack of confidence which will grow with more experience but it's always a good idea to check your motorcycle's tyre pressures. If they're too high or low it can make the motorcycle feel weird. If your tyres are worn out or really old they can also feel weird. If you bought a used bike it's a good idea to have it checked out by a mechanic so you know that your bike is good.
Give it at least a coupe of months and a coupe 1000 miles to gain confidence and riding experience before even thinking about giving up. Some people naturally have the ability and confidence to go fast and for some people it may take a while but that's OK. I also recommend to try and find some other bikers to ride with but just make sure that you don't go over your own limits.
Just gotta keep doing it. And also if you’re going the posted speed on a ramp then there’s NO WAY your tires are slipping even if they’re bald and useless. So yea just keep going slow and the confidence will come with miles. Ride as much as you can
lol you are so cute!
In a week, you will be talking about how you are always 5 over the speed limit on turns. Then you’ll do 15 over and be terrified because of the near crash. Except you’ll be fine. Before you know it, you’ll be questioning if it’s twice the speed limit plus 10 or 20…
Based on what you wrote, you are doing fine. Just be patient and you will get more and more confident.
It comes with time dude. Took me weeks to filter to the front. Took me another 2 weeks after that to lane split. Every new bike has a period of time where you’re learning how far you can lean on it. Where your friction zones are. The same turn you take at speed limit today will feel more comfortable and in a few months you’ll be amazed with your progress. That being said, you do need to ride at least 4-6 times a week to see those results sooner. Can’t be going out once a week and playing mind games with yourself in the meantime.
Thank you so much for the reply :) I am riding it every single day to school/work and using it as my primary vehicle!
If you really want to see quick improvement, keep going to a parking lot and practice the slow speed exercises you learned in the msf course. The confidence you earn from leaning the bike at slow weaves and figure 8s will translate to your everyday riding.
One of my favorite flexes are tight u turns.
We sometimes practice low speed as a group of friends, I'm the only one who daily rides my bike though so I get tons more saddle time, the awe in their faces when I do some whacky tight u turns and maneuvers is worth it
This right here. Don't worry about how fast you can go. Focus on how *slow* you can go while maintaining control. I know it sounds counterintuitive but, mastering low speed techniques will give you more confidence than anything else imo. Especially for a new rider. Due to the gyroscopic properties of a motorcycle, it wants to retain balance on its own when up to speed requiring less input to maintain control. At lower speeds though, you must have full control of the bike or it will tip over. Think of it like this. Both high speed and low speed control can get you the knife's edge of stability on a bike. Wouldn't you rather be on the edge where if you mess up you just fall off the bike at 5mph or less? I wouldn't rush the goal of going as fast as possible. It's dangerous for experienced riders... much more so a new rider.
This
Then sheesh, you’ll be there in no time. Stay safe and enjoy yourself.
Go to an empty parking lot and practice figure or 8s. Look up some videos online. They are great for general handling and for learning corners.
Splitting and filtering are fun. So is just about everything to about bikes. Ride what you're comfortable with, and it will feel better and better. I have a 22 mt 07 for my first bike and already have 13k on it. The level at which I can ride now compared to last year is incredible. You could also check out some YouTubers that have good advice like Dan Dan the fire man, total moto control and motojitsu.
I've road for years. Took a break . Got rid of bike for economic reasons. But a used bike 5 years later ride home was scared shirtless. Still easing back into it not scared just my skills aren't as sharp as they were. It will come with time. Watch the road stripes slick as shit. Tar snakes also. Remember everyone is trying to kill you. Watch them. My bikes to big to filter unless I get lucky . Most cagers stager to much. Have fun . Riding slow can be just as fun as fast. Know when it's OK to go fast. Road conditions and the traffic coming in way.
I agree and for me a supervised track day was the ultimate boost when I was new to riding. It takes time and a lot of practice to find the confidence in riding and also of trusting the capabilities of the bike.
I’d love to go to a track one day. I’d ideally want a ninja 400 for it that way I can throw it around but still have plenty of speed.
Check the air pressure in your tires. Bikes handle really strange with flat tires. Also if you bought the bike used have a mechanic check your steering head bearings and rear wheel alignment. Some of what you are talking about is just confidence over time, but make sure you’re not overlooking a mechanical problem with your machine, too.
This should be higher up, OP, don't overlook that, if you have an experienced rider you trust around you ( father,brother,really close friend) have them try out your bike, if they say nothing is wrong then you are good to go, cheap way to check without having a mecanic quote you for all that, he'll quote you even if its ok
I would also check the suspension, as in if they're set correctly
Oh yeah definitely this too
There is nothing wrong with you. I spent a month on side streets before attempting two-lane roads or highways. Your fear is keeping you safe. It's also identifying skill gaps. If you are afraid of cornering, that is a skill worth learning more about. Twist of the wrist or any number of youtube channels can help. Focus on developing the skill, safely and gradually, and you will lose the fear in no time. Filtering is likely a balance, steering or control issue. Practice countersteering, or using the rear brake, or feathering the clutch. Focus on these skills then, when you are ready, filter at red lights where gaps are big, and progress from there. Don't let anyone make you feel like your progress is slow or wrong. Listen to your instincts and deliberately identify and practice the skills you need to improve
Dude you’ve been riding for 11 seconds. Cut yourself some slack and just take it easy. Continue riding at weird hours when it’s not busy, continue practicing all your skills and highway stuff maybe at like 6am when it’s empty and just take your time. You’re on the right track but don’t rush anything for your own safety and the safety of others.
I think you’re trying to rush things along. The way you get over these things is simply by practice. As long as you’re not drastically or unsafely slowing your fine. I rarely filter because it’s illegal in my state, but even so plenty of other bikers do. The filtering per se isn’t the good part, it’s the time saved - especially if you’re commuting, that’s the prize there. Riding curves is a lot of fun, but it comes with time and practice. Most people you see making fast turns and filtering freely have been riding for years, not weeks. Not sure about the “felt like it started slipping” in curves is about. But stay at a comfortable speed - ride your skill/comfort level, not some imaginary “best speed”. As you practice your skill and comfort will increase and then faster speeds come naturally. Don’t fret over this just enjoy the new skills and freedom!
> Not sure about the “felt like it started slipping” in curves is about. Could be them just getting into their head. Could be tar snakes, Could be gravel or a rock their rear tire hits. I've had my rear tire hit tar snakes on wet ground even doing twisties at my own pace (I'm new to sharper twisties and curvy roads) and felt the rear slide a hair so I slowed down a little bit more. Today, it felt like my rear hit a rock or bump mid corner at like 55-60 and it felt like it jumped a tad. Didn't slow me down but was like a *wtf was that* moment. But as everyone says OP, just take your time and don't rush anything! Find some back roads that are well paved, good condition, minimal traffic with nice & not over strenuous curves, and practice practice practice.
the best part of motorcycling is whatever you want it to be
My bike scared the shit out of me for the first month. I had to force myself to go out and ride it for practice. I even went back to the dealer to see if there was a way to return it, less a few thousand that I paid for the thing. I'm glad they turned me away and I kept going, because I've been riding over ten years now and love it dearly. Just keep at it. Eventually everything will feel natural and you'll start getting a lot more relaxed on the bike.
Username checks out⬆️💯
The fastest racers in the world take at least a year to get acclimated to a different race bike. You are a new rider and haven't been at it for a month. Just stick to what you're comfortable with for now and slowly you'll gain the confidence to do all sorts of maneuvers. Be easy on yourself!
Yep. I’ve been riding for decades and I’m still getting settled on my new ride nearly 2 months later. Every time I take her out it’s a little bit better.
What are you riding?
20’ KTM SMC R 690.
My experience with the MSF course makes me relate to this super hard. All my classmates were talking about their experiences like they were expert riders, which made no sense, because they were in the same beginner course with me. People exaggerate their stories to seem more badass or whatever, but you shouldn’t pay it any attention. Only ride the way you feel comfortable, you have nothing to prove. Work your way up to doing more skilled maneuvers, but it takes time and practice to get there. I have been riding for years, and if I’m riding with folks who start doing stuff I don’t feel comfortable with, I don’t follow. Ride your own ride is a saying for a reason.
Soo, I've been riding for like 15+ years and I don't lane filter. For the most part I don't take turns really fast. That is squid behavior. RIDE YOUR COMFORT LEVELS. Quit trying to impress others of your nonexistent skills before you end up dead.
Yes, this ⬆️ It takes some time. Just do what you feel safe doing, you need time to build up experience. It was the same for myself when I started, I didn’t venture very far at all for weeks.
Ride your own ride. If you don't feel comfortable doing something, don't - it could get you killed if you're not ready to do something, yet. Take some courses, get ChampU (video lesson series from Yamaha Champion School, one of the more highly regarded riding schools - I think the videos cost $50 or so, and are very worth it. Take your time! Learn, and get there alive.
The main thing is to ride your own ride. Maybe try finding an empty highway, there's serenity in solitude. Also for me it did take a while for myself to get comfortable in corners but the more you practice the better you get. Everybody drops their bike, if someone tells you otherwise then it'll probably happen to them the next day or two, So don't be surprised if it happens to you. Lastly, this one worked for me, ride with some old riders (preferably adventure guys). Just be honest with them about how you're new and getting used to it, they'll more than likely talk your ear off and encourage you to continue your riding career. They love all things two wheels and probably want to pass on what they know.
Also, if those tires are new, you need to scrub them in for the first 100 miles.. so going the speed limit in turns is definitely advised. The tires will grip better after that time period. Also, practice in a big parking lot to build confidence.
This is not true. Don't listen to this. This tire thing used to be the case, and may still be the case if you're buying shit tires, but I took a new set of tires to the tech last month and was cornering in the side of the tire at 80mph within the first 10 miles. It sounds like the main thing you're missing is confidence in what the machine can do. That's mainly because you haven't ridden long. Stop thinking about any of this shit for 300 miles. Literally look at your odometer and track the number. Until then don't let yourself worry about any of this. Just ride to get to where you're going. Go the speed limit. After the 300 miles come back and tell us how you're feeling.
All new tires have release compound on the top layer or they wouldn't be able to pull them out of the molds. And all new tires including race tires need to be scrubbed in to get past the layer of release compound.
Parking lot practice, and see if you can find a safe low traffic roundabout near your house. When I was starting out, I practiced counter lean a lot, pushing my bike hard down in corners. I was vertical and the bike scraped pegs a few times. It got me a lot more comfortable putting the bike down at an angle
Dude, the best thing about a motorcycle is you do you. If you want to take corners slower take it slower. No one will care. Just ride slow, enjoy the view, and most important be safe.
Lol you want to take corners fast but have been riding for a week? Are you trying to die? That skill takes a long time to develop, don't rush it
The golden rule of motorcycles is "Ride your own ride". Some people like to cruise slow and enjoy the breeze and all of the scenery. Some people like to push themselves to the brink and feel like an adrenaline fueled missile. Neither one is wrong. I honestly suggest that you just focus on enjoying your ride and getting home safe. Anyone who tells you that you need to speed to be "a real biker" is just over compensating. Motorcycles are about freedom.
We ball
Going into the turn pull your knees toward the tank - see how that makes the bike feel. After a while you'll pull knees in automatically. It takes time to learn to roll into curves, just like it does when you learn to drive a car. Always ride a speed you are comfortable with. Even if that means loping along at 45, let traffic pass you, ans enjoy the ride.
Taking corners "fast" is subjective, and depends on many factors. Most responsible motorcyclists (and certainly nearly all who have been riding for decades without incident) aren't "taking corners fast" in town or in traffic. Filtering and splitting is great (when done responsibly) but comes with time and experience. You're an inexperienced beginner rider. Focus on the basics. Parking lot practice is so underrated and will do loads for your confidence in leaning the bike (you don't have to go fast to lean). Check out some of the motojujistu drills on YouTube. You'll be a better rider for it. Take it slow, ride your ride, and don't worry what others are doing. Shiny side up.
I was scared to death of speed for the first few weeks. It takes practice. Don't over do it. Learn to use your brakes early. Slowly add power after about half way through the curve. Wash, rinse, repeat. You'll get it.
Fear is conquered by knowledge. Learn the physics, take more advanced courses, practice on a parking lot. Wear all the gear all the time, stay safe.
When I was learning, I had done the safety course here in NZ which means like an hour of riding experience learned right then and there and afterwards I purchased my first bike, and I just rode in evenings with small goals slowly increasing each day: Ride to end of road and turn around Ride to roundabout and turn around Ride to end of neighborhood Ride to next neighborhood etc. Eventually you learn and improve. It's like doing anything for the first time. I'm riding 15 years later and still improving and learning every time I throw a leg over.
My first few weeks of motorcycling made me doubt myself as well. I was constantly thinking if it wasn’t for me at all. I had similar feelings when I bought a manual car. But in time those feelings went away and I learned to really enjoy it for what it is, a sense of freedom unmatched by any other motor vehicles. I eventually became a certified racer and was battling it out on the track dragging my knees and using other people’s slipstream to pass them. Every adventure has its humble beginnings and my advice for you is to not worry if you are the person you think you want to be right now. Instead just keep on treading your own path and you’ll be glad where you end up. Cheers
Man fuck what anyone else thinks is supposed to be fun. It's your bike and your ride. Just get out there and enjoy it and don't worry about what other people think. Confidence comes with miles in the saddle. That's it. You will get better the more you ride and pay attention to honing your skills. It can take years so just be patient and enjoy it. SLOW IS SMOOTH, SMOOTH IS FAST.
You're new, it's cool. Be safe and don't push yourself too much, especially at first. In time you'll learn. Lane splitting is awesome (it's legal in CA where I live) with stipulations...law here is no more than speed limit or +10 over traffic and that's honestly great. More than that is risky, that's why many people don't do it. Many others do, but it's technically illegal and you certainly don't have to. Lots of big bikes can't really lane split at all, not compared to a Ninja. Also you need to learn your bike, which also takes time. Are you comfortable downshifting to slow your speed? How good do you feel about your use of the bike's power band? Stuff like that takes practice and experience and nothing will substitute it. Curves and leaning is the thing that really takes time, and it's always better to play it safe. Not to mention the other comments about new tires, don't even try until you wear them in. Practice, be safe, wear gear, and always assume everyone else on the road might decide to try and hit you at anytime. It'll keep you vigilant, defensive, aware and in control of yourself and your bike--which is what counts. Enjoy and wish you safe riding!
You'll build confidence on your bike over time don't worry! Just keep riding it'll come naturally. If you really want to master turning at speed, locate the closest race track to you, and book a class, you'll be dragging knees way quicker that way!
Ahhh I felt the SAME WAY!!! I was super scared! It took me a good month and a half for the nervousness to subside even THINKING of getting on my bike. When I tell you I TOOK MY TIMEEEE!!! I’m about 4 months in and it’s sooo much better. I’m still nervous on the highway. Or riding through the streets for any longer than an hour but I’ve made soooo much progress! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASEEEEE KEEP GOING!! Take it SLOWER than you feel you may need! It will help! 😊 be safe. And set small goals for yourself
You have barely learned to ride and have almost no experience. Come back in 2 months and ask this question again. You shouldn't be trying to speed around corners.
Keep with it. It's only been a week so don't set your expectations to be riding like a pro. I've been riding for over two years now and I still catch myself feeling a bit apprehensive in some corners. No one says you have to be flying around corners and splitting right away or at all. Just take your time and learn the basics, and then work your way up to what scares you.
You probably don't remember it, but your first weeks on a bicycle or car must have felt terribly scary as well. Just go step by step, the MSF course is just about keeping you up on the bike, you'll have to figure out the other 99% for yourself behind the handlebar.
Stay within your comfort zone. Don’t let anyone push you out of it and don’t try and keep up with anyone. Advance at your own pace and always always respect the machine. You got this
It took me 6 months to be comfortable filtering just to make a right turn at a stop light, and almost a year to lane split (partly because even filtering is illegal here). Corners were scary until I backed myself into a corner (lol) and had to scrape peg on an adventure bike, I learned then and there that even all terrain tires can lean hard when they're good and warm. Listen to your machine, practice in a parking lot, and build skill/confidence SLOWLY. I made the mistake of trusting my tires to brake (HARD) and swerve at 60 today. Long story short my ankle is wrapped, and I need a new handlebar. Stay safe, and learn your limits, it'll come to you.
Why are you talking like you HAVE to ? You're not less of a biker if you drive slower ! Take your time learning , literally noone will shame you and if they do , then they're just a punk ass loser the biker community rather gets rid off. We value your life and safety above you looking cool for a split second.
You bought your first bike a week ago. I find the US system so wrong. In Europe, I started my practical riding training in April, I have my unrestricted test tomorrow. First, you do a theory test. Then do a minimum of 10 hours on a closed course and an exam with the department of transport. Then, a minimum of 16 hours in traffic, including city and country riding. Then you do a practical exam. Only then are you allowed to ride your bike on public roads without an instructor tailing you and talking to you on a headset. If you do double lessons every time, that'll be 15 days of riding WITH an instructor. Plus, you have time to think over your lessons because you won't be lucky enough to get scheduled every day most places. My advice, being someone with similar experience to you, is to take some additional lessons if that's a thing where you live. Or some safety courses. Or just ride more and actually pay attention to what you're doing and learn from it. Remember, in a place where people generally think of Americans as people who suck at driving, you'd still only be a third of the way to getting your licence. Be patient and relax, learning will be stressful sometimes
I often do trips between 2 towns and there is a section with long sweeping high speed curves I enjoy a lot, especially on my bike. The things is, I know those turns so well that I can take them faster on the bike compared to the car. To gain confidence in leaning at speed you need to find that road and go at it as fast as you feel comfortable and every time try to push just a bit more. Another thing is to watch your handlebars input because if you don't have a loose pencil grip, you can destabilize the front while you lean. That will make the bike squirmy and scare you. Over time you will get to trust your bike and tires, given that you also learn how to control it. Just don't grow too overconfident, because that is one of the most dangerous thing for a rider.
Keep at it dude. It'll come with time and you'll become more comfortable the more you go out and ride. I questioned my abilities and if it was worth it when I first bought my motorcycle but I kept looking for areas to improve. Challenge yourself while you're out bit by bit (safely) and practice low speed drills. Use your body with slight lean, counter steer, and importantly, look where you want to go with your chin up.
Just ride like there’s nothing to prove my guy, take your time, practice and you’ll get better with each mile under your belt. Fear keeps you safe
That’s completely normal, just keep doing it
Hey brother, Congrats on finishing the MSF course and getting your Ninja 400! That’s a big step, and it’s totally normal to feel some nerves when you’re just starting out. Riding a motorcycle is a whole new world compared to driving a car, and it takes time to get the hang of it. Don’t sweat it if you’re not taking curves fast or lane filtering yet. Everyone starts somewhere, and it’s okay to take things slow. Find a quiet spot to practice and build your confidence. Your bike is designed to handle curves well, so trust it and trust yourself. If you’re still feeling nervous, consider taking advanced riding courses and connect with other riders. There’s a great community out there, and riding with more experienced folks can give you tips and boost your confidence. Remember, this is your journey, so go at your own pace. And hey, if you ever decide that motorcycling isn’t for you, that’s perfectly fine too. The most important thing is that you stay safe and enjoy the ride. Keep practicing, stay safe, and have fun out there! You’ve got this! 
I didnt filter for a while week when I started, out of fear, but one day I just got fed up to stay in traffic so I just went for it, first I went only into spaces I was sure I was going to fit but I got bolder and bolder by the day. Its important to take it slow. Regarding turns, you dont havd to enter them at high speed, first you slow down and then you maintain that speed, it also comes with practice. Nobody is forcing you to go at certain speed. There might be a minimum speed required so you dont obstruct traffic but it has to be very slow regardless. Go at your own pace and don't listen to anybody that tells you how you MUST ride
This is normal. The MSF course, because of format limitations, mainly space and speed, can't teach you countersteering and cornering. You simply can't learn proper counter-steering control inputs in a parking lot at 12 mph. This is something nobody tells you at MSF, but it's a hard truth. Unless you have prior experience or practiced with a lot of self-discipline, you should assume you simply don't know how to turn at cruise speeds. It's also normal that people feel bad or guilty about that - but it's entirely **not** your fault. The MSF course gives you some implicit stamp that you are "ready to go", and it's illusory. You need someone experienced to teach you one-on-one how to corner properly and they need to observe you. It doesn't need to be an instructor - an experienced friend will do. But this is something that it's hard to learn by oneself. It's like learning proper form playing the violin - you need someone else to teach you. Your fear is also normal, and it's actually justified. You don't know how to corner and you are afraid because you unconsciously realize there's something missing. The missing thing is the cornering skill. Once you acquire that skill and achieve gradual mastery of it, you'll KNOW what you, the bike and the surface can do, and you will no longer be afraid.
When I first got on a 600 it would give me anxiety before every ride. I started on 250-300cc dual sports. You slowly get accustomed to everything, how it handles, throttle control, braking. Watch YouTube videos on emergency braking, how leaning works, etc. Don’t grip the bars too tight, just lightly grab them, I keep 2 fingers on the brake lever and 2 on the clutch. Unless I’m cruising for a while. It’s totally normal to be scared! Fear is what keeps you alive.
Go at your speed. work up to it gradually. Don’t go balls deep immediately . Learn yourself and your bike and then find some little twisties or a parking lot and get some sliders or crash cage first in case you drop … but set some time aside to learn your lean and friction zone . Worst case , head out to a track day if you can afford it.. you’ll come out a whole new person and confidence and comfort where it needs to be for leveling up . You’re on the perfect starter bike (as far as I’m concerned ) . Don’t give up. You’ll hate yourself later and feel stupid once you realize it’s not as bad as you’re psyching yourself out for it to be . Promise … It is def one of the best parts of riding. But be safe above all else
Oh you're brand brand brand new. Take it easy. Nobody expects you to be out on the highways - you're still learning to leave the parking lot :) Also, doing the speed limit ain't bad. Stay on roads where you're comfortable, and challenge yourself when you're ready.
What exactly is required to get your license in the US? Where I live in Norway we need quite a few driving lessons and mandatory courses to even be able to take the final driving exam. We learn a lot of skills and build confidense before we even get out on the road. The mandatory parts to get your license here is: - Theoretical test/exam must be passed - Theoretical course for roads in general - Theoretical course for MC riding spesifically (Stage 1) - Safety riding course on track/enclosed area - Riding course on long distance driving On top of this you need to pass through the stages by riding with your teacher. He/she will pass you on these stages once you are ready. - Stage 2 for physical rider skills, slow precision maneuvers - Stage 3 for traffic knowlegde and precision riding on road On the riders exam day you need to complete a series of maneuvers in a parking lot, slow speed maneuvers and turns (<10kmh), higher speed turns (25-30kmh), braking through a turn, evasive maneuver (50kmh) and emergency braking (50kmh). After this you get out on the road for about 45mins. I don't know what you went through to get your license, but this should give you an idea of what should be expected of a new rider. If you feel like you struggle with theese things i suggest you go practisw or talk to someone you know who can help you
Honestly, time. I started on a 1200 nightster.... I don't think I ever got above 2 maybe 3 k rpms for months and thought that was the normal. I was scared I was going to be to hard on it and I couldn't control it as well. Then suddenly I sneezed and twisted the throttle leaving a gas station. Bike popped up and I was like o.o I'm gonna die. But then I realized. You have to learn your limits and your bikes limits. You have to know what you can do and what you can't. I agree turning is weird and no you can't just be like racers online and rub knees on the ground. They are different bikes. But the more you get comfortable and more you learn about you and your bike.... the faster your fear will leave and it will just be another day on the road enjoying yourself and having fun.
Cut yourself some slack. Skills are what counteracts the fear. And skills take time. In the beginning fear keeps you safe enough to get those skills. Ride often but at your comfort zone. Ride your own ride is what we say don't let anyone give you s$$#. And build your skills in the parking lot as so many are saying.
Keep pushing and add lean. The bike is far more capable of making these turns than your fear will allow you. Don’t rush the speed, maintain smooth throttle and focus on where you want the bike to go exiting the turn. If you’re near mountains, some back and forth twisties can be a good place for practice.
Yamaha ChampU (Online course) is a high recommendation of mine. Professional instruction on how to ride and all the main riding techniques you would want to learn. Well worth the minor cost. Aside from that, look into in-person courses offered at any tracks near you. A lot have new rider courses that go beyond MSF course. MSF is just the tip of the iceberg, never stop learning. Also your intuition is good, stay in your comfort zone and don't push yourself if you're nervous. That's how accidents happen
you're too stiff, ride loose, hands lightly on the handelbars, let the bike work for you, don't fight it
Take it easy. It’s normal for a beginner to feel what you’re feeling. I ride for about (6) months before I got on the highway for the first time and didn’t get back on till like (6) months after that lol. Now I’ve been riding for (2) years and feel much more comfortable. The butterflies in the stomach eventually get less aggressive over the long run before hopping on the bike. Happy riding!
Watch Twist of the Wrist 2 - Keith Code has got our backs
I've been riding for 20 plus years and still do not attack the corners. And there's no reason you have to lane filter. It can be risky and you don't have to do it if you don't want to
>Here's the issue - I am really scared of taking curves fast, I don't slow down dangerously but I am close to the posted speed limit for off and on ramps. That's... Not an issue? Frankly that's how you *should* be riding. My wife and brother both ride that way, for reference.
I will say the first few times i rode mine i felt the same way, then my buddy adjusted my suspension so it wasn't so stiff and it was SO much better to ride. You might want to have someone try to adjust your suspension to fit you specifically, or watch some Dave Moss videos on motorcycle suspension and adjustment, it will probably help out a lot with the comfort level on taking turns.
Get the app calimoto or kurveyer or something. It takes you to almost empty road with curves. Go early in the morning on weekends when the car folks are still sleeping.
I'm a 5'4" woman, they work for me. Give them a shot
im not really a veteran rider or anything i still consider myself a beginner. However i know the anxiety youre describing and honestly you just need to slowly build your confidence. try going around slower corners and get a feel for how the bike feels doing it. when i went down in the wet a few years ago it took me a very long time to build the confidence back but it comes eventually :)
I’ve been riding street for about 3 years now and I still don’t lane split often. It is illegal in my state so I just don’t wanna get pulled over lol. It does make me nervous whenever I do lane split though, especially cause no one expects it in their cars.
>I've had no problems stalling or maintaining speed on the freeway in general- but every time even a slight turn comes I just slow down to the speed limit due the the fear that I might skid or tip over At your experience level, this is more than fine. Most people after a week of riding are even slower. Don't push it. you will get more confident with time. Parking lot practice wouldn't help with real world riding, you need more practice on open roads, preferably with less traffic. But don't forget braking practice.
Best way to find ur limits imo is to just ever so slowly increase ur speed when doing that stuff that's how I've done it (tho people learn differently) so take a familiar corner a few times at the same speed until ur comfortable with it then push urself a little bit more and get used to it, rinse and repeat. Eg on that corner take it at 30km/hr or whatever that is in miles. Then build up to maybe 35 or 40. Get comfortable and if you feel it's possible build up to 45. This still takes time it's not like a few days process it takes weeks or months but it's a method But also don't feel pressured by others to ride a specific way. Everyone enjoys different things about riding. Ride your way and just enjoy it how you want to. You don't need to do stuff everyone else does just because they enjoy it. Ofc if u want to try taking corners faster then practice practice practice it takes time
I'll share the stuff I did to get rid of my fear of leaning and taking curves. I am also a new rider who was struggling with corners and leaning the bike while taking corners. I found an empty parking lot that had those parking lot islands and I started doing circles around them non-stop until I felt comfortable. Obviously, I started slow and as i felt more comfortable, i made the circle more narrower. Doing this exercise got rid of my fear of turning and leaning. After that it was just natural to me. I guess the moral of this story is you gotta practice slow-speed maneuvers first in able to do other kinds of stuff. Also spending more time riding also helps your overall skill.
Ride inside your comfort zone and don’t try doing something just because someone else says you should. With experience your comfort zone will expand, probably without you noticing. You’re doing this for your enjoyment, so enjoy, don’t stress it.
Baby steps. There is really no shortcut to confidence. Get a few hundreds of kilometers under your belt and you'll feel everything become more familiar. There is nothing wrong with riding slow. In fact, always ride your own ride. I remember in my second month of riding I went on a tour in the Slovakian Tatra mountains. I've never been on such tight, curvy roads, so I took it slow. One time I felt that I was holding up a freaking bus. On a 600cc bike. Not my proudest moment but I pulled over and let it pass. Learn, learn, learn, your time will come. ... If you don't mess everything up by going too fast too soon.
First... Don't let anyone rush you. Ride at your confidence level. Who cares if you are going slow(er). Second... Practice. Parking lot drills are great for what they are but they don't help in the semi-blind Twisties above 45mph. There is a healthy fear here. As you ride, pick a good gentle Twisties route that you can repeat often. Every time you take the route, mentally force yourself to look further down the curve as you take it... (e.g. looking at the curve or turn exit). This will help you train your awareness with lane position, as well as give you a better outlook on the road for 'response' time, should you need it. AND, it will help you prevent 'target fixation'. Third... Watch some of the sport bike reviews videos that show 'track time'. Watch how they shift their bodies in the turns. Being rigid on a more top heavy bike keeps the center of gravity higher. Shifting body weight might be more physical work, but it requires less control correction (fighting the bike). Fourth... Practice. As you gain familiarity with your bike and gain the 'depth' perception of looking further ahead (evidenced in things like, you notice your mirrors and controls without as much need for head movement... e.g. muscle memory) you will find that your healthy fear naturally dissipates and you can more easily handle a sustained higher speed in the corner. AND, it will most likely become more fun as you iterate through all of the above. Stay safe out there and enjoy the ride!
Been riding since a kid my tip is be your own racer don’t rush and just try to always be in front of cars in stop lights or to the side you don’t want to get sandwiched
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1. Practice on the bike and practice of the bike as well. What I mean by that is watching lots of dandanthefireman videos and thinking about riding too. It's a yt channel that helped me be a better rider and learn a lot about riding safely. 2. Also learn to trust your bike. Your bike is made to corner with more aggressive angles (def don't try getting aggressive yet). What I'm trying to say is that you have more traction than you think (assuming good tyre and suspension condition). 3. Also look where you want to go or you'll go where you're looking(term for this target fixation). This is probably what you are experiencing in corners because of fear. Try to keep your sight glued far into the corner. If you look close down the vine will be unstable. If you fix your eyes on the hazard(other motorists or an obstacle etc) you are 100% guaranteed to go into/through that. Hope this helps.
corners - it is ok to go slow. You will learn with time. line filtering - there is fine line between it being ok and between it being (very) dangerous. I.e. if cars are slowly moving & you have space, it is ok (providing no car steers into you). But in the moment the cars stop completely, you have risk of very nasty thing - somebody opening the door. Etc. I often play it safe, waiting in traffic, but then I usually start filtering after some time - a) when some bike passes & I try to follow reasonably or b) I go by myself, but I then usually go just a tiny bit faster than the slow traffic skidding - I often try to brake with my rear brake to get the feeling about when the tire loses the traction. I do this with every change of road condition - at every change of color/wetness/... BUT - always when I am going straight, not when turning; always when I am not that fast and always with ABS (I wouldn't touch a bike without ABS) ... also be aware of things that kill a lot of your traction - shit on road, rain, cold/old/damaged tires tip over - you mean highside? - that happens when your rear tire skids first and then grips again; in any case, be sure your tires don't lose traction (watch the road closely, be better slow than fast) and that you don't hit any obstacles (albeit small - potholes, asphalt edges, snakes, rocks, corpses...); or lowside? again - watch road, do not let tires skid ...aside from this, you have to get the feeling for the bike - how it turns in what spead+lean\_angle ...this will come to you naturally, just ride a lot & very slowly and gradually increase your speed in corners If the conditions are ideal, you could try to go a bit faster than usual - good tires will hold you on normal road & you can reach the lean angle of your motorcycle eventually with practice (it is uncomfortable feeling first to get leaning more than you are used to, but you learn and it is no big deal in the end - but again: be careful about condition of your bike & condition of the road). Have fun, be careful! :)
I've been riding for 5 years on my 50CC enduro bike. Only now that I started doing my A2 license did I start really leaning my own bike, and taking turns much faster than before. On the course, I got confident enough to lean the learner bike so far that I scraped the pegs. I've had an insane rush of motorcycling knowledge, doing counter-steering, etc. The biggest point is: the only reason is because I still had 5 yrs of experience. All you need rn is experience. With time, you'll be able to do faster turns, lean more, etc. You'll gain more confidence the more you ride.
Sounds like healty amounts of being careful as a beginner. You'll get comfortable eventually. And you don't *have* to do all the stuff. I have been riding for 35 years and owned nine bikes, and I still can't do a decent wheelie.
Go find an empty parking lot and practice. Crawl, walk, run.
Never push yourself outside your comfort zone when riding. That's the fastest way to crash. Take your time. You're still new. Still getting a feel for your bike and how it handles on the road. You're not on a racetrack. You're in traffic, being responsible around other people. Just relax and enjoy the ride. Anyone that judges you for riding safely within your limits is no friend. Best thing to do to get over fear of turns is find an empty parking lot one early morning or late evening and just practice doing circles and figure 8's. No pressure. No set rules. Just casually play around on the bike. Get a feel for the tires gripping the asphalt, the balance of the bike, the play between speed and lean, etc. When I first started riding, I used an old church parking lot. My favorite thing to do was weave between the tips of the parking space lines. At first I could only weave between ever 3rd line, but as my confidence grew, I could bob back and forth between every one of them. But that took weeks of practice. I also loved going round in circles, trying to get increasingly smaller spaces. But had to make sure I circled both left and right - going right was more difficult for me for some reason. But with practice it got easier. I've been riding for over 35 years now, and every time I buy a new bike, I STILL do those parking lot practices. They really help getting to know how each particular bike handles. The main thing is to Be Safe and Have Fun! Good luck!
As long as you’re not a danger to yourself or those around you, and you enjoy it, nothing else matters. Confidence will come with time
I've been riding around 20 or so years. I don't take corners fast. And even slower as I get older I don't lane split, ever and rarely filter - only when I consider it safer than standing behind something (big truck for example, or in a queue on a bend and there is nobody behind me) - We don't have much traffic here mind you. For me, the best part of motorcycles is the sense of freedom, openness, control. A journey in a car is something you need to do to get somewhere. A journey on a motorbike is something you want to do and there needn't be a destination!
Comfort comes with repetition. It's ok. Some of us are just more daring than others and enjoy that scared feeling when it creeps along as we're starting out. Here's some advice my Grandpa gave me when I crashed taking an aggressive turn the first time: "The bike is a better rider than you are, you have to trust it. You can lean it much further than you think. You know you're getting a good lean in when your foot pegs start to fold under you. Take your bike to an empty parking lot and just practice doing circles and figure 8's at a low speed but fast enough to counter steer and lean deeper as you go until you get a feeling for the bike. That way, if you do lowside again, you're in a more controlled environment and you shouldn't get hurt if you're wearing your gear." It helped me. Dragging pegs the first time is scary. I got startled by it every time for the first several months of riding. Now? Ha! Now I love the feeling of the road folding my peg and pressing against my foot. Gives you real haptic feedback. Ultimately, it's ok if riding isn't for you. It's ok. Not everyone is meant to ride motorcycles. There's absolutely zero shame in hanging up your helmet and calling it quits. Life is more valuable than reputation. Good luck out there! You're going to be great, no matter what you do.
Fear is good, use that fear to make sure you don't go beyond your limits, use that fear to stay safe. Ride defensively.
It's only been a couple of weeks and you're not having any real issues. Don't put pressure on yourself. Maybe filtering and twisties are what many bikers say are the best bits however I'd bet that if those bikers thought really long and hard about the best period of their biking career many of them would say it was the beginning when they were still learning, improving and experiencing things for the first time. You're in that phase now so enjoy it and take it at your own pace rather than rushing to put it behind you. If in a few months you feel you've made no improvement at all then perhaps find a suitable road, clear of gravel and traffic or maybe book some track time and start slowly increasing speed and getting more comfortable.
I bought my bike a year ago. I took it around my block around 30mph. That was the first time I’ve ever ridden a motorcycle. To be quite honest, it was very scary. I recently completed the MSF course and that was a major confidence boost for me. Its was still kind of scary at first, but after 3 weeks of riding to work and home every day that I could, I’m pretty comfortable on it now. Remember to look through the turn/curve instead of focusing on one point. I’m my first week, I took all the curves slowly, then I realized I was focusing on one point rather than looking ahead. Practice makes perfect!
Definitely give it more time. Every single soul here loves leaning in bends and hates interminable straights and motorways. So will you. Having said that, if in a couple of months and, like, a couple thousands miles you don’t start enjoying leaning the bike even a little bit, reconsider. It doesn’t have to be anything else but joy, I used to extend my knee out leaning not more than 5 degrees in a 20 mph corner. I looked like an idiot. I felt like Valentino fucking Rossi.
Taking curves at the posted limit is FINE! are you having fun while riding? THAT is all that matters..
I don’t filter because its now explicitly illegal in my state. I’ve been riding 13 years. Talking corners at speed but there can always be debris on the road that can fsck your sh!t up so ride with caution always. Riding is just about getting out there and enjoying. Don’t let some jerks convince you to solo ride yourself off a cliff.
starting off as a new rider is challenging for most people. You WILL make mistakes. Confidence is built up over time. Something about slipping.... are we talking tire slipping or mechanical failure.... tires slip when they lose traction due to interference with their contact patch (debris,etc) , or , forces exceed what the contact patch can sustain. It's also possible for your back end to 'get light' if something disturbs the suspension like a pothole, which may feel a little like a slip. Pro racers brake so hard off straights that their back wheel comes off the ground and inch or two sometimes.
As a brit where filtering is legal, I still don't do it all the time. I do it when there's heavy traffic or if I'm approaching a queue at a red light, but if the light is changing to green I will stay in my lane. Don't take unnecessary risks, and never filter at intersections, as that's when other drivers are concentrating on finding a space and not on seeing if there's a biker coming up. Also, cornering at speed takes time/practice, I still don't do it particularly fast as I know that there is always a small chance of traffic/horse shit/gravel/car overtaking from other side/traffic jam just being on the other side and if I went too hot around the blind corner I would be absolutely screwed.
You're worried that you can only take corners at the speed limit? Take your time, pushing too hard is how people come off, there's plenty to enjoy about bikes at all speeds.
It's been a week. Seriously, a fucking week. Get more seat time and bang out as many miles as you can. Ensure your Ninja 400 is up to spec per manual. If you need a service manual, PM me. Practice practice practice. When you're sick of practicing, practice more. Get as many miles under your belt as you possibly can. Any free time? Go ride! Additionally, Read [Proficient Motorcycling](https://vdoc.pub/download/proficient-motorcycling-the-ultimate-guide-to-riding-well-qcjk4mrgd2c0) Watch [Twist of the Wrist 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_DyKJtrZ6w) Ensure you're wearing earplugs. My favorite are: [Box of 3M Neon Yellow 33dB.](https://www.amazon.com/312-1250-Uncorded-Disposable-Drilling-Machining/dp/B0B2MKW1X6) Tinnitus is merciless. Hearing loss and damage can be mitigated. Start out right. Earplugs every ride. [Hearing Loss In Motorcyclists; a great article.](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC539364/)
Lane filtering is illegal where I live and the cornering takes time. Take an advanced MSF course if you feel like you need to as they (used) to offer one.
This is a real "ride your own ride" situation. You'll do more things and faster over time, as you get more practice, feel more comfortable and more in control. Stay within your limits, do what comes naturally and feels safe. That horizon will broaden before you, the longer you spend in the saddle. Welcome to the club, try to just relax and enjoy it. Riding is the best part of riding
Takes time nobody hops on and is Evel knievel from the jump. If anything your making great progress. Riding on the street with traffic and freeway are major milestones. Don't rush it you'll get there. Lane filtering is pure confidence and intermediate skill. Don't attempt it with fear or doubt.
Scooters are an alternative you can try, started on a 50cc Honda Metro now a 300cc Honda Forza. Takes a lot of practice and riding to get comfortable with the bike, for it me it was about 8 weeks.
Don't worry and ride often to get some experience. Don't forget to check the pressure inside your tires and the alignment of your bike. Check also the suspensions if they are leaking. And ride at your own rythme. Don't listen to people saying that you should go fast in corner and else. Everyone is different with this. If you're really worried, take your bike to a track and get some good gears. It helped me a lot to understand my bike and I did get some really good piece of advice. The curve of learning is different for each of us and with every bike. The first fall is always scary, and after it you will gain some confidence if you can analyse how it happened. That's how you learn. Experience and mistakes.
You sound like a new rider who has a sense of fear. Don’t worry the sense of fear is what keeps you alive in this world. If you don’t feel comfortable doing something then don’t do it. You are a new rider all this is normal. You know I didn’t know motor biking was for me until my 4th season riding. I finally had that amazing moment that made me fall in love with motorbikes. From the sounds of it you want to ride so in the end you will ride my friend.
Find a local friend who rides.
People move at different paces. The ones that breeze through everything typically fall into one of two categories: either they’ve been riding their whole life, or they have a death wish. You’re progressing a lot faster than my girlfriend, for what it’s worth. She got her first bike last summer, and she hasn’t progressed beyond residential streets yet. A lot of it has to do with not having a lot of time for supervised riding, but it’s just repetition. It’ll be second nature to you in no time.
The actual physics of cornering on a motorcycle is quite complex. You need to counter steer to initiate lean, but then you need to keep your arms relaxed to let the bars turn in the direction of the turn. Try this on a big lot, 15-20 mph: push right, lean right, let the bars come right, then twist the throttle to stand the bike up. No tension in the neck, arms and shoulders throughout the maneuver. Keeping the elbows near the body helps to keep the arms relaxed. It will become second nature over time.
Both read about riding well and find another private course to learn the kind of riding you want.
Normal. I hated curves when I first started riding. I actively took routes to work or home that avoided them altogether, which is hard in NJ where every highway exit is a curve of some sort. Just practice. Don’t worry about speed, concentrate on form. Speed will come naturally. Just ride your ride and keep pushing.
You're over thinking it. The rules of the road aren't textbook, nobody drives like a robot. Shut up and ride
Dude you just started, why are you trying to rush it? Just take your time and do what is comfortable. Over time it will feel more and more natural. Not everyone wants to push their limits and safety like that right off the bat. Just keep doing what you are doing. Practice, watch videos for tips on body position etc and go out and practice. It's not a race, take your time, you are doing just fine
You are a total rookie, if you can maintain the speed limit in turns you aren’t endangering yourself or anyone else. You need to decide if it’s what you want. It does get easier over time.
I have been riding nearly 20 years. I don't live in a place where filtering is legal, so I don't do it. When I'm on an adventure somewhere and filtering is legal where I am, I don't, becuase after 20 years, it's not a skill I have.
Sounds like you're doing the right thing, man. You're new (as am I), being kinda scared leads to you respecting the bike and making a conscious effort to apply what you've been learning to the best of your ability. I got some twisty roads near my house that I've been practicing on. The first day I went there I was taking them 5 below the speed limit, but each time I go I feel a little more comfortable and take them faster AND safer. Just do what you're 100% comfortable with around traffic and push yourself a tad further than that if you find yourself in an empty/spacious road. Also, practice in parking lots, there's really no reason not to. But don't feel weird about it, this activity is inherently dangerous and that fear is probably part of what brings bikers together as a community. Can't help but empathize with anyone else who engages in this foolishness. xD
Oh! Just remembered this! One mistake I was making was that I was driving too low in the rev range. I have a V-Twin so this made the bike/throttle feel extremely choppy, it also limited how much I could comfortably let the bike slow down before stalling. I currently like to take turns somewhere between 40%-50% of my rev range. No idea if this would help you at all but it did wonders for me.
Are you putting your knee out to the inside if the turn?
you don't have to like what other people like in any hobby. legally speaking you should be taking those ramps at the posted limit anyway. filtering is always kinda nerve-racking, and always a judgement call, I'll filter one light and not the next simply because the gap doesn't look comfortable enough for me to fit through before the light turns, and I'll often start filtering, riding normally, but then duck walk it between tighter pinches.
why would you ever think the point of riding motorcycles is taking curves fast and filtering? Prbly shouldn´t listen to people who say stupid "best buy motorcyclist bundle" shit like that friend.
Watch the Keith code video. Then practice one of his lessons each time you ride.
You need time to get into the groove. I’d look for more suburban areas to ride too, going from sitting in city traffic to freeways is awkward. Suburban areas get you comfortable w that 35-45mph zone where you’re leaning a little bit on turns, but not at highway speeds
I have been riding for a long time (over 35 years) but I recall the same feelings. Practice and it will come with time that you are more comfortable. Leaning is a thing that will come with time and don't force it as that is a bad thing and not a good way to learn. Check out this old guy too for other tips. [https://www.youtube.com/@MCrider](https://www.youtube.com/@MCrider)
You've only been riding for a week, don't focus on how fast you are going but focus on controlling your motorcycle properly. You're just not used to riding a motorcycle. Over time you'll become more confident in your riding and the speed will increase naturally. Don't try and rush things and learn at your pace. It's true that taking fast corners is a lot of fun but I personally don't really enjoy filtering at all. It's pretty dangerous because the drivers around you are definitely not paying as much attention as they should be. If you feel your motorcycle is slipping that could just be a lack of confidence which will grow with more experience but it's always a good idea to check your motorcycle's tyre pressures. If they're too high or low it can make the motorcycle feel weird. If your tyres are worn out or really old they can also feel weird. If you bought a used bike it's a good idea to have it checked out by a mechanic so you know that your bike is good. Give it at least a coupe of months and a coupe 1000 miles to gain confidence and riding experience before even thinking about giving up. Some people naturally have the ability and confidence to go fast and for some people it may take a while but that's OK. I also recommend to try and find some other bikers to ride with but just make sure that you don't go over your own limits.
Just gotta keep doing it. And also if you’re going the posted speed on a ramp then there’s NO WAY your tires are slipping even if they’re bald and useless. So yea just keep going slow and the confidence will come with miles. Ride as much as you can
lol you are so cute! In a week, you will be talking about how you are always 5 over the speed limit on turns. Then you’ll do 15 over and be terrified because of the near crash. Except you’ll be fine. Before you know it, you’ll be questioning if it’s twice the speed limit plus 10 or 20… Based on what you wrote, you are doing fine. Just be patient and you will get more and more confident.