Hey Sandman, great presentation on the riding technics of a trike! The visual aids enhanced your explanations very nicely. Even 2 wheel riders can practice your tips and gain valuable experience in the process. I know that when I get a trike, I'll have to review this video and head to a clear, large parking lot and practice for an hour at a time and increase my practice time and how often I do it until it becomes truly second nature for me as a rider. Thank-you for this video you put together for us"green-horns" newbie's for you beginner riders. 🏍️👍😁⭐⭐⭐ Doug
I just transitioned from riding a 2 wheeler to a Harley Ultra Tride Glide Trike. I am over 70 yrs old and have been riding for 30 years. I was intimidated by the many features on the trike and was a little fearful. The hardest part of the learning process for me was learning how to steer with a different body position. I was startled a few times and brushed against a few curbs but survived. I searched for a training videos and I saw a few but Sandman I like yours the best of all them. It was a excellent presentation and I listened to you and rejuvenated my thinking how to properly ride and the obstacles a person can face during the transition period of learning new skills.I can successfully say that I made the adjustments. Thank your for your patience and time giving detail information that was easy to follow. I looked at both Part 1 & 2 of your videos. I played the videos-repeatedly until I learned how to correctly position myself when operating the trike. Excellent videos.
Just rode my first Harley trike today. I’m a first time rider,and wasn’t feeling too confident on my brother in laws 850 lb Ultra Classic. Riding the trike today was so much fun and a helluva lot easier on my 50 year old knees! It’s 3 wheels for me from here on out😁 Thanks for the tips🙏🏼
As a younger disabled woman who uses a 3 wheeled scooter, I want to one day get a trike. thanks for the video! It was interesting to see how similar the two are. Ride on, my man.
Gracias 🙏 for a very nice video. Thank you for your service 🇺🇸🇵🇷 I am also a Veteran, US Army 1966/1969 be safe my Brother and I hope you have many wonderful years of sunshine, and great Riding. I am 74yrs old and I still ride an Indian scout 60. Here in Puerto Rico 🇵🇷
My dad passed away last month. He left his soft tail and his trike to my sister and I. I know how to ride his soft tail, but I have no experience on a trike. It seems straight forward but your videos brought up some things that I haven’t considered. Thanks for that and your service to our country!
Right on. Sandman I ride a Tri Glide with a Big Bore motor and the hard thing I had to learn was not to hold the clutch in on high speed rolling corners, because it defeats the anti flip programing. The Harley three wheel bikes will speed up one of the back wheels to get you through the turn. But if you hold in the clutch the inside wheel will come up and you now have a two wheel bike and it is attempting to go back where you just came from. If you put your foot down it ends badly. Let out the clutch. point the bike in a safe derictin and it will sit back down with no issues. Great Video and ABN..
I am a retired Army Chaplain. Enjoyed your video First Sergeant. I am picking up a Tri Glide Ultra new this week. My last bike was a 1966 Yamaha 250 cc Scrambler. I sold it in 1970 for a car. So I am a little anxious with this 1900cc monster. I just got my motorcycle permit and soon will start a course. I am going to trailer it until my wife and I feel comfortable. Keep these coming. 03E.
No better time than the present. You will definitely enjoy the trike. Very short learning curve but practice around the neighborhood until you are comfortable. Enjoy. Thank you for your service Sir. Salute! Thanks for watching.
Thanks for your excellent video! I've been riding street motorcycles since 1976. So this is definitely a careful learning curve. I still ride lighter weight bikes. But my Road King was just too heavy between my replacement knee and back surgery. I also want to thank you for being a combat infantryman. And also making it to the top of enlisted ranks! For those vets that know what each patch represents really appreciate and respect what each means!! Thank you!!
I have been on a trike for five years now. My biggest AHA! moment was not push/pulling, but keeping my arms fairly straight and leaning my body to turn the bar, thus reducing arm fatigue. I’m 72, and am able to ride 400 miles in a days time and not feel wiped out. Also, very little input is required for lane changes or object avoidance at highway speed.
Thank you Sandman! I just bought a 2011 Softail Deluxe. I was at a beginner riders course through Harley to try and get my Motorcycle endorsement. Having ridden only friends little 250s a few times as a kid, I felt like a complete boot a needed to learn to ride. I made a major mistake and locked up my front brake on one of my attempts at practicing sudden stops. Well I'm sure that you can guess what happened. The bike I was learning to ride on (a Harley Street 500) skided and the bike a I booth fell over coming down hard on my knee. I wound up in the ER with a broken lower leg. I know, dumb a**!!! It seems. that I always have to learn the hard way!!! Well my wife made me promise to get a Trike instead. I'm planning on doing a Trike conversion on my Softail and will definitely be following your channel for all your good tips.
Wow, that is awful that you got hurt while learning to ride. I'm glad you are getting back in the saddle. Trikes are much safer, especially for new riders. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for a great video. I picked up a new Tri Glide Ultra two days ago. I have never ridden a trike before and your videos were a tremendous help getting past a few problem areas. My wife went on her first ride with me today. The ride was perfect, she said she loves the trike.
Thanks Sandman ... finally someone actually taking the time to explain the nuances of riding a trike. I've been considering one an this series is great ... 👍
When a man wearing them double A patches is teaching you something, listen to him. Just inherited my gramps GL1800 and I sincerely appreciate the advice. Grandpa was a comms Ssg and I was an Armourer Sgt.
I want to let everyone know that I misspoke in this video about counter-steering and leaning on a two-wheeled motorcycle. One of my viewers told me about this error and I want to clarify what I so ineptly communicated. In the video, this is what I said (0:58 to 1:10) “Motorcycles use two types of steering. Two-wheel bikes use counter-steering. That's where the rider leans to the left or to the right depending on the turn that he's taking. This leaning counters the centrifugal forces and avoids tipping over.” The viewer that pointed this out is absolutely correct in that this information is wrong. I do know the difference between counter-steering and counter-balancing except my mouth spoke faster than my brain. I apologize to everyone for putting out bad information. I strive to correct any errors and not just ignore them. I’m making it right by putting out a correction on counter-steering and counter-balancing. *For two-wheel motorcycles.* When riding a motorcycle at a very low speed, change direction by turning the handlebars in the direction you want to go. At higher speeds, you initiate a change of direction by first pressing the handgrip on the same side of the turn. Press right to go right. Press left to go left. This is called counter-steering because the handlebars are initially moved opposite the direction of the turn. Maneuvering in a limited space can be challenging. Making a tight, sharp turn or U-turn is an important skill to master. It helps you in parking lots, when turning around on the street, and in making a tight turn from a stop. *Here are some considerations where space is limited.* 1. Use a very low speed and sharp handlebar turn. 2. Use the friction zone and throttle in combination with the rear brake to control speed. 3. Use a counterweight method. This permits more motorcycle lean for a tighter turning radius. Putting more pressure on the outside footrest can help. Also, you can move off the seat toward the outside of the turn. 4. Turn your head to get a good-sight picture of where you want to go. 5. For a tight turn from a stop, turn the handlebars before moving out. I hope I didn’t confuse anyone looking at this video on how to ride a trike when I spoke about counter-steering a two-wheel motorcycle. Feedback is always welcomed and if I mess something up let me know and I’ll fix it most tick. Thanks for watching and Let’s Ride. Sandman
This is my first video and I loved it. I’m considering going from a 2017 Road Glide to a Tri Glide 😉 Shout out to the viewer who recognized the error. 🎉 I appreciate your high level of integrity and ownership as well as the corrected information.
Great video! I have ridden my whole life. Mostly 2 wheelers, but recently have had to switch due to medical issues. Still, nothing like riding with the wind 😎
Great video! For me the biggest learning curve moving from 2 to 3 wheels was turning, especially canyons and twisties. If you still want to ride with two wheel buddies in the canyons, be prepared for an arm workout. But I love my trike.
What a great video...thanks for putting together and sharing. I've been riding two wheel bikes for many years but old age, balance and strength have led me to a trike. The worst day on a new trike rider is the first day. Spend time in a large parking lot on a Sunday morning doing turns, breaking, body movement. I also would recommend purchasing small blind spot mirrors to acknowledge the width of a trike and expand your field of vision. Don't put your feet down while stopping as on take off your calf will slam into the rear fender....you will only do that once. I still ride a two wheel bike and one significant difference in riding through canyons on a trike is speed would decrease and your turning geometry will change. Don't give in to drivers behind you who may get frustrated by your slower speed....acknowledge mentally the goal is to get to your destination safely.
Hi, Sand Man I like your trike ! I,m 67 years young and I,m a long ways from using walker! But Top I love to ride my bike, I have a lot fun a good times on her! But it will get to that point when I will need to change to a Trike to keep riding. So I'm glad Top that you are doing these video's. thanks Bother!
Been riding HD 2-wheels since 1976....in 2019 I went to the HD Tri-Glide Ultra Classic. Obviously there is a change in-regards to riding protocol, but nothing that significant. Only issue on my first day riding ...well more of an embarrassing moment was the first couple times I went to stop at a light - I would put my feet on the ground! 😖 by the 3rd stop it was recognized, corrected and life went on!! No regrets on the trike, and will not go back to (2) wheels. 👊respect👊
Airborne! The Chieftain Dark Horse is a great looking bike. I rode through NM, and it's gorgeous out there. Thanks for watching. Keep your feet and knees together.
Thank you for this video. I'm looking to switch to a trike since I had to sell my last 2 wheeler due to sever arthritis issues. This would be my first trike so I know it will take me some time to master the different riding style. Keep the videos coming. I need them.
I'm also switching to a trike after 15 years on two wheels. Got my 2nd ride in today and it's getting a lot better to transition. The first mile I drove it last week was a moment of WTF did I buy? Lol. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I am. I'm glad there's options for us as we age.
Only thing I had to get used to when going from two to three wheels was right turns. Just make sure it’s wide enough to avoid hitting the curb or road edge. It was easy to do and I really love my Freewheeling. Great informative video, thanks.
Just got my HD Tri Glide Ultra, a heck of a lot different than my Street Glide Special. The biggest difference is of course cornering on windy roads, you really have to slow down. On a good note my wife loves it, even suggested we take it to Myrtle Beach Bike Week, about a 3 1/2 hour ride in May. Before I do that we will be doing a lot of local riding breaking it in and gettIng used to the bike. Thanks for the video and of course your service to our country. Ride safe.
Excellent advice!!! I probably will purchase a Harley Davidson three wheeler within the next five years. Your show is very informative and helpful in steering me in purchasing my future trike. Thank you for your show! At this point, I need to go and test ride one soon. Great channel and keep up the good work!!!
I agree with frank and Henry comments totally! I tried a trike and thought you can jump on and drive away! Retraining the brain , relearning! Slow down to understand,and dangerous is wanting to put feet down coming to stop! Good video!
Bought a Freewheeler just before the lock down. Needlessto say but it sit for awhile. I have had a motorcycle license since 1968 and have been riding two wheels since i was nine. This trike scared me on a curve. And now it is just sitting. I am on a sporty now cause i can't get my big bike outa the garage alone and like i said the trike is great but i live in kentucky and there is not a straight road that o know of. Thank you for the tips and advice. If i can not learn to go around curves without my mouth going dry, i guess i sell the trike and the big bike and just ride the old sportster.
The Freewheeler has excellent traction control and other systems in place to help around curves. Check out my latest video on how to ride a trike around curves. You can master these techniques easily. Stay with it and good luck. Then again, a Sportster around curves is pretty badass. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
This might be the best video for new trike riders! And what to expect. I went to a trike after 3 crashes on two wheels. Turning and making sure where my ass end was took getting used to. I got the tri glide and love it. Very comfortable! That color on your freewheeler is sweet 🤠 ride safe👍
Lean in and towards the turn with your upper body. Also, squeeze the tank to reduce the feeling of falling off. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Ha Sandman. I'm riding a tri glide for the first time. I have a happen of putting my feet down. But it seems as if the bike is moving left or right when taking off.
Excellent video! Please put more emphasis and detail on Turning (separate video? ). There's a lot of misinformation on TH-cam regarding Turning in corners on a Trike. They complain and internalize how hard it is to turn the Trike handlebars. I've been riding since 1972. I've had my Trike for over a year. I found out that you don't wrestle with the right and left handlebars. Once you read the curve and reduce your entry speed (as you stated), simply provide a GENTLE INPUT In the direction you want to go. Hold that and then accelerate out of the curve. Your arms and wrists will thank. Now, decreasing radius curves, that's a different animal (hate "em). Your entry speed will have to be much slower. Up until the time you accelerate will be slower. Ignore the cagers behind you as they will be impatient and want you to speed up. Hope this input has been helpful. Clarence Thrasher
Hardest thing for me was making turns. 😅 I was used to two wheels whipping around a corner. Brand new to 3 wheels with 1 hitting the air scaring the sh** out of me. 😬 Learned quick!! 😂
How much of a psychological problem such as wanting to put your feet down at a stop? How much time do you think it takes to get over this issue? Thank and great video.
When I first got on my new tri Glide, I said to myself, self, I hope this is a good move. I did not handle worth a S. But hear me out. It takes a few hundred mile to relax on a trike and not to fight the steering. After you learn, It is like driving my pick truck Great ride and way lees to worry about especial getting off the road on gravel or grass.
I appreciate the like and view. I have here your answer straight from the MSF manual for you. Unlike a two-wheel motorcycle, turning a 3WMC is similar to the way you turn a tricycle: steer in the direction you want to go. A most important thing to remember when making a turn is to slow down as necessary before the turn. This is accomplished by rolling off the throttle and/or using the brakes. Downshifting to a lower gear may also be necessary. Always set a good entry speed, which is a speed that won't require you to slow further while in the turn. Look through the entire turn and keep your eyes moving. Evaluate the turn for its characteristics, surface condition, and traffic. It helps to turn your head to face the direction you want to go. To initiate the actual turn use push/pull steering to point the front tire or tires in the direction of the turn. Pulling on the left handgrip while pushing on the right will cause the 3WMC to turn left. Pulling on the right handgrip while pushing on the left will cause the 3WMC to go right. Try to slightly twist your body in the direction of the turn when using push/pull steering. This should make it easier on your arms. And you may find that it's more comfortable to lean slightly forward and in (towards the turn) when turning at higher speeds. msf-usa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/3-Wheel-Motorcycle-Riding-Tips.pdf
LOVE LOVE that beautiful venom paintjob on that. I'm buying the 2022 GI Edition TG, but if I was to go with any other version it'd be paying extra for that paintjob!
Hi Sandman. I enjoyed your video. I am retired CW2, 64 yrs old living in PR. Two of my brothers are members of LAMA Orlando and both have Harleys. I have never owned a bike and would never venture to ride a regular bike at my age, both of my brother have fallen over the years. However, I am having this craving for some adventure this late in life and have been considering a Goldwing trike. As you probably know the traffic in PR is a bit challenging and the conditions of the roads are not the best overall. What would be your recommendations to help me in my decision making process? Thanks in advance. Hooah!!
After listening to your video it makes me glad that I went the reverse trike route with a CanAm Spyder. Power assist steering and ABS brakes negates much of your comments as it is much easier to ride and stop safely, having both rear and front brakes on one pedal means that the braking is simpler and with two front wheels better grip for braking..With the ABS and stability system built in the chances of losing grip is very much less regardless of the road conditions.I find that it is more comfortable to lean into a turn to counteract the forces involved in the turn and lean quite far in the tightest turn. Having a proper reverse gear instead of just using the starter motor makes reversing easier and no limit to the distance you can reverse as it won't overheat. With the 2 wheels in front it makes it easier to judge whether it will fit into a space. When I moved from 2 wheels to 3 I had around 10 minutes practice in the dealers parking lot before a 180 mile ride home, the main thing I had to relearn was positioning on turns. In the UK on 2 wheels a left turn has you positioned near to the center of the road to give a better view round the bend, of course with a trike this brings the right hand front wheel over the center line. the actual steering difference didn't take that long to relearn as it is basically the same steering used at low speed on 2 wheels, the biggest thing was not to grip the bars tightly as this makes the steering more sensitive and you tend to overcontrol at lower speeds. (Power assist is speed dependant so at higher speeds it is much less sensitive). Having spoken to other trike riders thay say that their standard trikes have heavy steering and when they had tried a Spyder they found it very sensitive.
@@jamesbecker3420 It all depends on your own ideas about looks. I personally find standard trikes converted from 2 wheelers ugly, bolting a car rear axle onto a bike just spoils it then adding ape hangers at the front is the last straw. Spyders are at least designed as one unit with the body fully faired into an aerodynamic form.
@@JimGDMAC It is a snowmobile with wheels as that was it's origins. My sister and her husband have Spyders and while they seem to perform well, they are still ugly...
how does the Harley trike handle in twisties. I tried a reverse trike and they are amazing, I can follow most 2 wheelers. but I had a Harley before and II am interested to know more
I've take mine through some twisties in the North Carolina mountains and it did very well. As I said before, your entry speed makes a huge difference. Stay in the wind and thanks for watching.
Hi Sandman, thank you for this video! I am riding for about 50 years although suffered a stroke about 2 years ago and considering a trike. Your suggestions are very much appreciated! I am looking a 2029 freewheeler on Wednesday. Do you have any suggestions what to be aware off?
You may take a motorcycle safety course to learn to ride a 2 wheeler. Start with a smaller bike you can handle. Trikes cut the learning curve way down. Test ride before you ride. Thanks for watching.
I have a single pouch attached to the winshield. It's easy to install. You use one of the windshield bracket screws. Below is the bag info. kemimoto Motorcycle Windshield Bag Windscreen Studded Pouch for Road King 1995-2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Softail Storage Tool a.co/d/ipAMj3Y
I catch myself still leaning into a turn.. Whichever way I turn, I’m worried the corresponding rear wheel may rise slightly.. lol.. Especially at high speeds on fairly sharp curves.. I would hate to slow down the riders behind me.. That’s why I usually ride at the end of the pack..
I have always wondered how turning works on a trike. Was it difficult to break the habit of counter steering when you first got on one? Pretty sure my brain would get confused at first haha
Hey Top! Should I get a trike? I life on a road that in the summer is deep sand. My Wideglide is almost uncontrollable in the deep stuff. Will a trike deal with the deep sand better or will it bog down and get stuck? I'd love to hear your opinion. Thanks US Army, SSG (ret)
Sounds like you need a half-track. But in all seriousness, I have no idea how a Freewheeler will do in those conditions. You may still have the same problem as other motorcycles unless they are adventure bikes. Thanks for watching. Army all the way!
If you turn off the trike to shut off reverse remember your trike will still be in neutral which could be a bad thing if you're parked on a slant no matter how minor.
Sandman, I just hit 56 my knees are acting up. Do you recommend a trike for me. I ride a Harley today but now at stop lights, or just holding up the bike… Well.. This Marines knees are screaming. I’m 6’ tall 225 pounds. Gracias
I recommend whatever makes your ride comfortable. Test ride the HD triglide or Freewheeler. Also consider the Can Am trikes. Stay in the wind Marine. Thanks for watching.
It's possible. If your trike has one wheel in the front you should have a steering damper. Check and make sure it's ok. Steering a trike is way different than a two-wheeler. It took me a day or two to get used to it and retrain my brain. Thanks for watching.
So, my husband and I both have Triglides. My biggest suggestion here, don't hold the reverse button. We just had to replace his reverse motor. You should only use the reverse button in 10-12 second bursts.
Trikes are a great alternative for more and more people now. Your Freewheeler is gorgeous ! Cool !! Very Cool !!! I just came across your channel by the way and I'm happy to support you and other fellow motovloggers. Keep up the great work and ride safe out there, I look forward to hearing more from you in the future 💯👍
Hey Sandman, great presentation on the riding technics of a trike! The visual aids enhanced your explanations very nicely. Even 2 wheel riders can practice your tips and gain valuable experience in the process. I know that when I get a trike, I'll have to review this video and head to a clear, large parking lot and practice for an hour at a time and increase my practice time and how often I do it until it becomes truly second nature for me as a rider. Thank-you for this video you put together for us"green-horns" newbie's for you beginner riders. 🏍️👍😁⭐⭐⭐ Doug
I appreciate the kind words. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
❤❤À
I just transitioned from riding a 2 wheeler to a Harley Ultra Tride Glide Trike. I am over 70 yrs old and have been riding for 30 years. I was intimidated by the many features on the trike and was a little fearful. The hardest part of the learning process for me was learning how to steer with a different body position. I was startled a few times and brushed against a few curbs but survived. I searched for a training videos and I saw a few but Sandman I like yours the best of all them. It was a excellent presentation and I listened to you and rejuvenated my thinking how to properly ride and the obstacles a person can face during the transition period of learning new skills.I can successfully say that I made the adjustments. Thank your for your patience and time giving detail information that was easy to follow. I looked at both Part 1 & 2 of your videos. I played the videos-repeatedly until I learned how to correctly position myself when operating the trike. Excellent videos.
Your comments motivate me to continue putting out trike videos. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Take the parking brake off.
Just rode my first Harley trike today. I’m a first time rider,and wasn’t feeling too confident on my brother in laws 850 lb Ultra Classic. Riding the trike today was so much fun and a helluva lot easier on my 50 year old knees! It’s 3 wheels for me from here on out😁
Thanks for the tips🙏🏼
Awesome that you are in the wind. Keep riding.
As a younger disabled woman who uses a 3 wheeled scooter, I want to one day get a trike. thanks for the video! It was interesting to see how similar the two are. Ride on, my man.
To me, riding is riding. Scooter, motorcycle, etc. Stay in the wind. Thanks for watching.
Gracias 🙏 for a very nice video. Thank you for your service 🇺🇸🇵🇷 I am also a Veteran, US Army 1966/1969 be safe my Brother and I hope you have many wonderful years of sunshine, and great Riding. I am 74yrs old and I still ride an Indian scout 60. Here in Puerto Rico 🇵🇷
Wepa! Thanks for the kind words. Indian Scout is a nice bike. Stay in the wind brother.
My dad passed away last month. He left his soft tail and his trike to my sister and I. I know how to ride his soft tail, but I have no experience on a trike. It seems straight forward but your videos brought up some things that I haven’t considered. Thanks for that and your service to our country!
Sorry for you loss. Ride that trike in his memory. Thanks for watching.
At first, steering was a challenge, now 6 months in, I'm loving a 23 Free Wheeler. 70 years old, steel knees and not dead yet!
Stay in the wind. Thanks for watching.
My wife and I love our Triglide. Moving from 2 wheels to 3 wheels was the best move for us. Thank you for a great video.
That is great that you and your wife enjoy the tri-glide They are a joy to ride. Thank you for watching.
Right on. Sandman I ride a Tri Glide with a Big Bore motor and the hard thing I had to learn was not to hold the clutch in on high speed rolling corners, because it defeats the anti flip programing. The Harley three wheel bikes will speed up one of the back wheels to get you through the turn. But if you hold in the clutch the inside wheel will come up and you now have a two wheel bike and it is attempting to go back where you just came from. If you put your foot down it ends badly. Let out the clutch. point the bike in a safe derictin and it will sit back down with no issues. Great Video and ABN..
That is good info. Airborne!
I am a retired Army Chaplain. Enjoyed your video First Sergeant. I am picking up a Tri Glide Ultra new this week. My last bike was a 1966 Yamaha 250 cc Scrambler. I sold it in 1970 for a car. So I am a little anxious with this 1900cc monster. I just got my motorcycle permit and soon will start a course. I am going to trailer it until my wife and I feel comfortable. Keep these coming. 03E.
No better time than the present. You will definitely enjoy the trike. Very short learning curve but practice around the neighborhood until you are comfortable. Enjoy. Thank you for your service Sir. Salute! Thanks for watching.
Thanks for your excellent video! I've been riding street motorcycles since 1976.
So this is definitely a careful learning curve. I still ride lighter weight bikes. But my Road King was just too heavy between my replacement knee and back surgery.
I also want to thank you for being a combat infantryman. And also making it to the top of enlisted ranks! For those vets that know what each patch represents really appreciate and respect what each means!!
Thank you!!
I have back and knee issues as well. Stay in the wind my friend
Thanks! I’m retired USAF myself and appreciate the info you have given! I’m thinking trike right now.
Best of luck! Thank you for your service, and thanks for watching.
I have been on a trike for five years now. My biggest AHA! moment was not push/pulling, but keeping my arms fairly straight and leaning my body to turn the bar, thus reducing arm fatigue. I’m 72, and am able to ride 400 miles in a days time and not feel wiped out. Also, very little input is required for lane changes or object avoidance at highway speed.
Great idea. I did a very twisty road and felt like I just came out of the gym. What a workout. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Sandman! I just bought a 2011 Softail Deluxe. I was at a beginner riders course through Harley to try and get my Motorcycle endorsement. Having ridden only friends little 250s a few times as a kid, I felt like a complete boot a needed to learn to ride. I made a major mistake and locked up my front brake on one of my attempts at practicing sudden stops. Well I'm sure that you can guess what happened. The bike I was learning to ride on (a Harley Street 500) skided and the bike a I booth fell over coming down hard on my knee. I wound up in the ER with a broken lower leg. I know, dumb a**!!! It seems. that I always have to learn the hard way!!! Well my wife made me promise to get a Trike instead. I'm planning on doing a Trike conversion on my Softail and will definitely be following your channel for all your good tips.
Wow, that is awful that you got hurt while learning to ride. I'm glad you are getting back in the saddle. Trikes are much safer, especially for new riders. Thanks for watching.
I meant to say Well Done Sarge! Thanks for your service! Looking into a trike 72 and still kickin!
I appreciate it. Get the trike. You won't regret it.
Thank you for a great video. I picked up a new Tri Glide Ultra two days ago. I have never ridden a trike before and your videos were a tremendous help getting past a few problem areas. My wife went on her first ride with me today. The ride was perfect, she said she loves the trike.
That is awesome to hear. Glad I can help. Thanks for watching, and keep on riding.
Même pour un frenchie vos explications sont indispensables ! Bravo
Je suis heureux que vous ayez apprécié la vidéo. Merci d'avoir regardé.
Thanks Sandman ... finally someone actually taking the time to explain the nuances of riding a trike. I've been considering one an this series is great ... 👍
Go for it!
When a man wearing them double A patches is teaching you something, listen to him. Just inherited my gramps GL1800 and I sincerely appreciate the advice. Grandpa was a comms Ssg and I was an Armourer Sgt.
Hooah! Thanks for watching.
I want to let everyone know that I misspoke in this video about counter-steering and leaning on a two-wheeled motorcycle. One of my viewers told me about this error and I want to clarify what I so ineptly communicated.
In the video, this is what I said (0:58 to 1:10) “Motorcycles use two types of steering. Two-wheel bikes use counter-steering. That's where the rider leans to the left or to the right depending on the turn that he's taking. This leaning counters the centrifugal forces and avoids tipping over.”
The viewer that pointed this out is absolutely correct in that this information is wrong. I do know the difference between counter-steering and counter-balancing except my mouth spoke faster than my brain. I apologize to everyone for putting out bad information. I strive to correct any errors and not just ignore them. I’m making it right by putting out a correction on counter-steering and counter-balancing.
*For two-wheel motorcycles.*
When riding a motorcycle at a very low speed, change direction by turning the handlebars in the direction you want to go. At higher speeds, you initiate a change of direction by first pressing the handgrip on the same side of the turn. Press right to go right. Press left to go left. This is called counter-steering because the handlebars are initially moved opposite the direction of the turn.
Maneuvering in a limited space can be challenging. Making a tight, sharp turn or U-turn is an important skill to master. It helps you in parking lots, when turning around on the street, and in making a tight turn from a stop.
*Here are some considerations where space is limited.*
1. Use a very low speed and sharp handlebar turn.
2. Use the friction zone and throttle in combination with the rear brake to control speed.
3. Use a counterweight method. This permits more motorcycle lean for a tighter turning radius. Putting more pressure on the outside footrest can help. Also, you can move off the seat toward the outside of the turn.
4. Turn your head to get a good-sight picture of where you want to go.
5. For a tight turn from a stop, turn the handlebars before moving out.
I hope I didn’t confuse anyone looking at this video on how to ride a trike when I spoke about counter-steering a two-wheel motorcycle. Feedback is always welcomed and if I mess something up let me know and I’ll fix it most tick. Thanks for watching and Let’s Ride.
Sandman
This is my first video and I loved it. I’m considering going from a 2017 Road Glide to a Tri Glide 😉
Shout out to the viewer who recognized the error. 🎉
I appreciate your high level of integrity and ownership as well as the corrected information.
Great video! I have ridden my whole life. Mostly 2 wheelers, but recently have had to switch due to medical issues. Still, nothing like riding with the wind 😎
Exactly right. Stay in the wind my friend.
Great video! For me the biggest learning curve moving from 2 to 3 wheels was turning, especially canyons and twisties. If you still want to ride with two wheel buddies in the canyons, be prepared for an arm workout. But I love my trike.
Thanks for sharing!
An arm workout is exactly what one gets from trikes. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
What a great video...thanks for putting together and sharing. I've been riding two wheel bikes for many years but old age, balance and strength have led me to a trike. The worst day on a new trike rider is the first day. Spend time in a large parking lot on a Sunday morning doing turns, breaking, body movement. I also would recommend purchasing small blind spot mirrors to acknowledge the width of a trike and expand your field of vision. Don't put your feet down while stopping as on take off your calf will slam into the rear fender....you will only do that once.
I still ride a two wheel bike and one significant difference in riding through canyons on a trike is speed would decrease and your turning geometry will change. Don't give in to drivers behind you who may get frustrated by your slower speed....acknowledge mentally the goal is to get to your destination safely.
I appreciate the comment. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Hi, Sand Man I like your trike ! I,m 67 years young and I,m a long ways from using walker! But Top I love to ride my bike, I have a lot fun a good times on her! But it will get to that point when I will need to change to a Trike to keep riding. So I'm glad Top that you are doing these video's. thanks Bother!
Your comments are very much welcomed. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Been riding HD 2-wheels since 1976....in 2019 I went to the HD Tri-Glide Ultra Classic. Obviously there is a change in-regards to riding protocol, but nothing that significant. Only issue on my first day riding ...well more of an embarrassing moment was the first couple times I went to stop at a light - I would put my feet on the ground! 😖 by the 3rd stop it was recognized, corrected and life went on!! No regrets on the trike, and will not go back to (2) wheels. 👊respect👊
At some point, I may get a small 2-wheeler to put around town, but I'm never getting rid of my trike. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
@Sandman Thanks for this video. I just upgraded to a 2020 Harley Davidson Freewheeler and this video was a ton of help for a new trike rider.
I'm glad it helped. I appreciate it. Thanks for watching.
Great video... getting my Indian Chieftain Dark Horse turn into a trike... former 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper in NM
Airborne! The Chieftain Dark Horse is a great looking bike. I rode through NM, and it's gorgeous out there. Thanks for watching. Keep your feet and knees together.
Thank you for this video. I'm looking to switch to a trike since I had to sell my last 2 wheeler due to sever arthritis issues. This would be my first trike so I know it will take me some time to master the different riding style. Keep the videos coming. I need them.
I'm also switching to a trike after 15 years on two wheels. Got my 2nd ride in today and it's getting a lot better to transition. The first mile I drove it last week was a moment of WTF did I buy? Lol. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I am. I'm glad there's options for us as we age.
Much appreciated. Thanks for watching.
Glad it helped! The transition curve is much shorter than you think.
Only thing I had to get used to when going from two to three wheels was right turns. Just make sure it’s wide enough to avoid hitting the curb or road edge. It was easy to do and I really love my Freewheeling. Great informative video, thanks.
I found it challenging when I first got on a three-wheeler. Thanks for watching.
@@sandmanrides4318 Don’t know if it make’s much difference but I did ride ATCs in the desert several years ago.
Just got my HD Tri Glide Ultra, a heck of a lot different than my Street Glide Special. The biggest difference is of course cornering on windy roads, you really have to slow down. On a good note my wife loves it, even suggested we take it to Myrtle Beach Bike Week, about a 3 1/2 hour ride in May. Before I do that we will be doing a lot of local riding breaking it in and gettIng used to the bike. Thanks for the video and of course your service to our country. Ride safe.
It is great that your wife feels safe enough to ride. You have plenty of miles of enjoyment ahead of you. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for your service Sir!!! Helpful video I'm just transitioning from two wheels to three. Safe travels!!!
Best of luck! Thanks for watching.
Excellent advice!!! I probably will purchase a Harley Davidson three wheeler within the next five years. Your show is very informative and helpful in steering me in purchasing my future trike. Thank you for your show! At this point, I need to go and test ride one soon. Great channel and keep up the good work!!!
I am glad to help. It's a good idea to test ride a trike before you buy one. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
I agree with frank and Henry comments totally! I tried a trike and thought you can jump on and drive away! Retraining the brain , relearning! Slow down to understand,and dangerous is wanting to put feet down coming to stop! Good video!
My concern now is if I ride a 2 wheeler not putting my feet down and falling over like a clown. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Bought a Freewheeler just before the lock down. Needlessto say but it sit for awhile. I have had a motorcycle license since 1968 and have been riding two wheels since i was nine. This trike scared me on a curve. And now it is just sitting. I am on a sporty now cause i can't get my big bike outa the garage alone and like i said the trike is great but i live in kentucky and there is not a straight road that o know of.
Thank you for the tips and advice. If i can not learn to go around curves without my mouth going dry, i guess i sell the trike and the big bike and just ride the old sportster.
The Freewheeler has excellent traction control and other systems in place to help around curves. Check out my latest video on how to ride a trike around curves. You can master these techniques easily. Stay with it and good luck. Then again, a Sportster around curves is pretty badass. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Nice bike
I noticed that it helps to enter a curve a hair sooner on a trike than on 2 wheels and it doesn’t hurt to enter high and cut down to the apex
Good advice. Thanks for watching.
Bought a Harley trike 2 yrs ago. Stability and comfort.
That's reason enough to own a trike. Thanks and stay in the wind.
Thank you for the good information.also I think it's going to be weird for me to slow down for turns and not be able to lean into the turn
You don't have to slow down but you will not be leaning. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for your service. I'm 60 and never rode. Now I want a trike for me and my ol lady...
USN GSM2
USANG SGT 63H
The clock is ticking, starting riding. Thanks for watching.
BTW, thank you for your service.
This might be the best video for new trike riders! And what to expect.
I went to a trike after 3 crashes on two wheels.
Turning and making sure where my ass end was took getting used to. I got the tri glide and love it. Very comfortable! That color on your freewheeler is sweet 🤠 ride safe👍
I really appreciate the kind words. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
top..you had me at the knuckleheads on the road statement!! that took this 58 yr ds/ds vet back!!!
Hahaha... Stay in the wind my friend. Thanks for watching.
Was learning.
To lean the opposite direction And a curve
Practice as much as possible. Much appreciated. Thanks for watching.
Excellent video and I thank you Sandman.
I’m having trouble with my turns but have only ridden my Goldwing coupla times before cold weather.
Lean in and towards the turn with your upper body. Also, squeeze the tank to reduce the feeling of falling off. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Ha Sandman. I'm riding a tri glide for the first time. I have a happen of putting my feet down. But it seems as if the bike is moving left or right when taking off.
It took me a bit to learn to keep my feet up. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Great video brother! Very informative. Also, thank you for your service! Preload!!! And Keep It Loaded!!!! © 👍🏾
I'm a huge fan. I learned so much from your videos. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Great instructional video. I thank you so much for posting it. On to part two.
Thank you for your support.
Top présentation thanks !
I appreciate the comment. Thanks for watching.
I own some things different I got a Piaggio mp3 250IE it have three wheels but two wheels in front and one wheel in back and have tilting system!
Let's see a photo of the machine. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
you do a great and thorough job on your videos. This is very much appreciated. You're very clear, descriptive.
Thank you for the kind words and thanks for watching.
Just got an electraglide police and ordered a good kit. US Navy retired. I have dvt in my legs.
Just stay in the wind brother. Thanks for watching. Also, thanks for your service.
Excellent video! Please put more emphasis and detail on Turning (separate video? ). There's a lot of misinformation on TH-cam regarding Turning in corners on a Trike. They complain and internalize how hard it is to turn the Trike handlebars. I've been riding since 1972. I've had my Trike for over a year. I found out that you don't wrestle with the right and left handlebars. Once you read the curve and reduce your entry speed (as you stated), simply provide a GENTLE INPUT In the direction you want to go. Hold that and then accelerate out of the curve. Your arms and wrists will thank. Now, decreasing radius curves, that's a different animal (hate "em). Your entry speed will have to be much slower. Up until the time you accelerate will be slower. Ignore the cagers behind you as they will be impatient and want you to speed up.
Hope this input has been helpful.
Clarence Thrasher
Excellent advice. Thanks for sharing.
Can we get a video for beginning trike riders like starting the trike and getting it going clutch release when starting etc
That is a great idea. Video coming soon. Much appreciated. Thanks for watching.
Great video Top. I am looking to get a trike in a few years before retirement, still deciding which brand.
Don't just look; test-ride them if you can. They are a blast to ride. Good luck with your upcoming retirement. Thanks for watching.
Maneuvering left to right and vice versa in the same lane took some getting used to for me
Steering was very different for me as well. Thanks for watching. Stay in the wind.
Thanks. Answered a couple f questions for me
Great video Sandman. Thanks for sharing.
I appreciate it. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for your service
I appreciate it. Thanks for watching.
Hardest thing for me was making turns. 😅 I was used to two wheels whipping around a corner. Brand new to 3 wheels with 1 hitting the air scaring the sh** out of me. 😬 Learned quick!! 😂
My hardest to get used to trike,was after a wreck loosing right leg and having to move brake pedal to left side of bike.
Wow! You modified the trike to keep riding. Inspiring!
How much of a psychological problem such as wanting to put your feet down at a stop? How much time do you think it takes to get over this issue? Thank and great video.
It wasn't too bad. It took me one day of riding around the city. Now I have to be conscious about putting my feet down on my Sportster 2 wheeler.
When I first got on my new tri Glide, I said to myself, self, I hope this is a good move. I did not handle worth a S. But hear me out. It takes a few hundred mile to relax on a trike and not to fight the steering. After you learn, It is like driving my pick truck Great ride and way lees to worry about especial getting off the road on gravel or grass.
My first time on my trike I almost ran into a stop sign. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Thank you for the video, can you go into more detail about turning on a curvy road?
I appreciate the like and view. I have here your answer straight from the MSF manual for you.
Unlike a two-wheel motorcycle, turning a 3WMC is
similar to the way you turn a tricycle: steer in the
direction you want to go.
A most important thing to remember when making a
turn is to slow down as necessary before the turn.
This is accomplished by rolling off the throttle and/or
using the brakes. Downshifting to a lower gear may
also be necessary. Always set a good entry speed,
which is a speed that won't require you to slow further while in the turn.
Look through the entire turn and keep your eyes
moving. Evaluate the turn for its characteristics, surface condition, and traffic. It helps to turn your head
to face the direction you want to go.
To initiate the actual turn use push/pull steering to
point the front tire or tires in the direction of the
turn. Pulling on the left handgrip while pushing on
the right will cause the 3WMC to turn left. Pulling on
the right handgrip while pushing on the left will
cause the 3WMC to go right. Try to slightly twist
your body in the direction of the turn when using
push/pull steering. This should make it easier on your
arms. And you may find that it's more comfortable to
lean slightly forward and in (towards the turn) when
turning at higher speeds.
msf-usa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/3-Wheel-Motorcycle-Riding-Tips.pdf
Nice video with lots of good reminders for all of us!
Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
LOVE LOVE that beautiful venom paintjob on that. I'm buying the 2022 GI Edition TG, but if I was to go with any other version it'd be paying extra for that paintjob!
It is a great color. I've gotten many compliments on it.
Great Video Sandman, really what I needed before getting my first trike
I appreciate the comment. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Hi Sandman. I enjoyed your video. I am retired CW2, 64 yrs old living in PR. Two of my brothers are members of LAMA Orlando and both have Harleys. I have never owned a bike and would never venture to ride a regular bike at my age, both of my brother have fallen over the years. However, I am having this craving for some adventure this late in life and have been considering a Goldwing trike. As you probably know the traffic in PR is a bit challenging and the conditions of the roads are not the best overall.
What would be your recommendations to help me in my decision making process? Thanks in advance. Hooah!!
CW2? Get what you want. Adapt to your environment. WEPA!
After listening to your video it makes me glad that I went the reverse trike route with a CanAm Spyder. Power assist steering and ABS brakes negates much of your comments as it is much easier to ride and stop safely, having both rear and front brakes on one pedal means that the braking is simpler and with two front wheels better grip for braking..With the ABS and stability system built in the chances of losing grip is very much less regardless of the road conditions.I find that it is more comfortable to lean into a turn to counteract the forces involved in the turn and lean quite far in the tightest turn. Having a proper reverse gear instead of just using the starter motor makes reversing easier and no limit to the distance you can reverse as it won't overheat. With the 2 wheels in front it makes it easier to judge whether it will fit into a space. When I moved from 2 wheels to 3 I had around 10 minutes practice in the dealers parking lot before a 180 mile ride home, the main thing I had to relearn was positioning on turns. In the UK on 2 wheels a left turn has you positioned near to the center of the road to give a better view round the bend, of course with a trike this brings the right hand front wheel over the center line. the actual steering difference didn't take that long to relearn as it is basically the same steering used at low speed on 2 wheels, the biggest thing was not to grip the bars tightly as this makes the steering more sensitive and you tend to overcontrol at lower speeds. (Power assist is speed dependant so at higher speeds it is much less sensitive). Having spoken to other trike riders thay say that their standard trikes have heavy steering and when they had tried a Spyder they found it very sensitive.
Awesome info on the Can-Am. Thanks for sharing and stay in the wind.
It is unfortunate that the Spyder is such an ugly vehicle...
@@jamesbecker3420 It all depends on your own ideas about looks. I personally find standard trikes converted from 2 wheelers ugly, bolting a car rear axle onto a bike just spoils it then adding ape hangers at the front is the last straw. Spyders are at least designed as one unit with the body fully faired into an aerodynamic form.
@@JimGDMAC It is a snowmobile with wheels as that was it's origins. My sister and her husband have Spyders and while they seem to perform well, they are still ugly...
how does the Harley trike handle in twisties. I tried a reverse trike and they are amazing, I can follow most 2 wheelers. but I had a Harley before and II am interested to know more
I've take mine through some twisties in the North Carolina mountains and it did very well. As I said before, your entry speed makes a huge difference. Stay in the wind and thanks for watching.
Outstanding video, thanks for sharing. Where is part 2, etc.?
I appreciate the comment. Here is part 2. th-cam.com/video/piVR9WJWd3E/w-d-xo.html
I have a 2017 tri glide , love it , but the only thing I wish for is power steering , I ride all day and after a while it gets tough on the shoulders
I have experienced the same thing. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Thank you for sharing this video! Sandman Rider 💯
Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Great video, it answers a lot of my questions!
Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching.
Great info many thanks
Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Hi Sandman, thank you for this video! I am riding for about 50 years although suffered a stroke about 2 years ago and considering a trike. Your suggestions are very much appreciated! I am looking a 2029 freewheeler on Wednesday. Do you have any suggestions what to be aware off?
Check for the reverse motor. It's the item that most likely will fail and it cost $1700 just for the motor. Good luck.
@@sandmanrides4318 Thank you Sandman!! Very valuable information
@@sandmanrides4318 BTW., Veterans must support each-other!
Very well put together video! Thanks!
I appreciate it. Thanks for watching.
I haven't operated a motorcycle at all don't trust 2 wheels should I try a trike moped first?
You may take a motorcycle safety course to learn to ride a 2 wheeler. Start with a smaller bike you can handle. Trikes cut the learning curve way down. Test ride before you ride. Thanks for watching.
Cool patches.
Just like kids love stickers, I love patches. All have been earned. I appreciate it. Thanks for watching.
I was watching you, 8:56 and I noticed you have a three compartment pouch on your wind sheal. Where and how did you get it and install it???
I have a single pouch attached to the winshield. It's easy to install. You use one of the windshield bracket screws. Below is the bag info.
kemimoto Motorcycle Windshield Bag Windscreen Studded Pouch for Road King 1995-2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Softail Storage Tool a.co/d/ipAMj3Y
I did not know that putting body into the opposite handle bars to help with turns .
I lean my upper body forward and in the direction of the turn. This helps take the effort off the arms. I appreciate it. Thanks for watching.
I would say turning was the biggest challenge. Going faster and coming to a bend in the road is sometimes scary.
Practice that which challenges you. Thanks for watching.
Do you have any videos on floorboard shiting on a trike?
Not at this time, but that is a great video idea. Thanks for watching.
I catch myself still leaning into a turn.. Whichever way I turn, I’m worried the corresponding rear wheel may rise slightly.. lol.. Especially at high speeds on fairly sharp curves.. I would hate to slow down the riders behind me.. That’s why I usually ride at the end of the pack..
I ride in the back as well. The large size of the trike gives the group cover since traffic can see me better than a two-wheeler. Thanks for watching.
I have always wondered how turning works on a trike. Was it difficult to break the habit of counter steering when you first got on one? Pretty sure my brain would get confused at first haha
If you focus on the turns it won't be confusing. The learning curve is very short. Thanks for watching.
I've never ridden a motorcycle before and have a terrible back. I was thinking about one of these. Would it be easy for a beginner?
Yes, it has a very short learning curve. You don't worry about balance or falling over. GO FOR IT! Thanks for watching.
Yes!! It's great fun! 👍
Hey Top! Should I get a trike? I life on a road that in the summer is deep sand. My Wideglide is almost uncontrollable in the deep stuff. Will a trike deal with the deep sand better or will it bog down and get stuck? I'd love to hear your opinion. Thanks US Army, SSG (ret)
Sounds like you need a half-track. But in all seriousness, I have no idea how a Freewheeler will do in those conditions. You may still have the same problem as other motorcycles unless they are adventure bikes. Thanks for watching. Army all the way!
If you turn off the trike to shut off reverse remember your trike will still be in neutral which could be a bad thing if you're parked on a slant no matter how minor.
Great advice. Thanks for watching.
Sandman, I just hit 56 my knees are acting up. Do you recommend a trike for me. I ride a Harley today but now at stop lights, or just holding up the bike… Well.. This Marines knees are screaming. I’m 6’ tall 225 pounds. Gracias
I recommend whatever makes your ride comfortable. Test ride the HD triglide or Freewheeler. Also consider the Can Am trikes. Stay in the wind Marine. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for serving the country. How long were you a service member?
22 years. Thanks for watching.
Brake and release . Manual abs.
Old school. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
I bought a 2021 F-3S Spyder. Tons of safety.
That is a great motorcycle. I always say safety starts with the rider. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Hey sand man I'm 65and. Just got a trike for some reason I'm weaving a lot? Am I fighting the steering?
It's possible. If your trike has one wheel in the front you should have a steering damper. Check and make sure it's ok. Steering a trike is way different than a two-wheeler. It took me a day or two to get used to it and retrain my brain. Thanks for watching.
very informative thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Keeping my feet on the floorboards are a challenge when I switch from my 2 wheels to my 3 wheels
I've had the same feeling. I appreciate it. Thanks for watching.
Am new sub great video and am looking to buy a Freewheeler in near future...i am Retired Air Force and thank you for your service Sandman.
I used to jump out of your planes. Freewheelers are a lot of fun to ride. Thank you for your service and for watching my videos.
So, my husband and I both have Triglides. My biggest suggestion here, don't hold the reverse button. We just had to replace his reverse motor. You should only use the reverse button in 10-12 second bursts.
That is correct. The reverse motor is only to assist not to drive. Burst mode is better. Thanks for watching.
Trikes are a great alternative for more and more people now. Your Freewheeler is gorgeous ! Cool !! Very Cool !!! I just came across your channel by the way and I'm happy to support you and other fellow motovloggers. Keep up the great work and ride safe out there, I look forward to hearing more from you in the future 💯👍
Awesome remarks. Thanks for watching and stay in the wind.
Very helpful video.
I'm glad it helped. Thanks for watching.
Thanks for the video, I'm considering trading in my Street Glide Special for a trike due to a bad knee. Also thank you for your service!
I appreciate the support. Stay healthy and in the wind.
@Sandman Rides >>> 👍👍
👍Thanks.
@@sandmanrides4318 >>> You're Welcome.
Great video..thank you so much.
Thanks for watching.