I don’t think you mean what you are saying at 5:40. “Coasting with the clutch pulled in, there is no force being put on the brakes or wheels” Agreed, no engine braking, obviously no brake force if you haven’t started to apply the brakes. You make it sound like you can’t brake with the clutch pulled in. Let’s confirm the procedure to new riders stopping. Clutch in, throttle closed…… progressively apply both brakes, knees squeezing the tank, eyes up to pick an escape route or distance to stop at.
@@yammienoob Absolutely!! Quick question, though! You're an insanely great resource for reasonable, responsible, and downright good motorcycle riding tips and habits. Just like the MSF. The ONE difference, is my MSF instruction (several years ago), always drilled into my head to always use all 4 fingers pulling the clutch and the front brake levers. I often see many very good riders (yourself included) doing the 2 finger method, which my instructor (rider of 20+ years) said is not ideal. Any thoughts on this?
I got my motorcycle license in 2012 and had my first lowside (just under 30 mph) and injury last fall. Broke my collar bone. I was geared up, and without it would have faired much worse. Armored shirt and gloves were shredded. Helmet face shield was destroyed, but my face is still pretty.😉 Riding pants frayed, but hip armour took the hit and slide. Bike landed/slid on my leg, and I was still in the riding position once I stopped. Anyway, I count myself lucky I got away with only a broken collar bone. Without the safety gear, it would have been worse. Wear it.
Happened to me back in the mid 00's. Learned some good lessons. North East in Feb. Random hot day and I was itching to get it out the garage having been three or four months since last ride. I got it out geared up and it was after sundown so it started cooling. A block away from the house was a new round about with fresh asphalt. Lowsided. Bike slid, I slid, still remember it till this day. I had jeans, boots gloves, helmet. Not a scratch on me. Not even on my jeans and I slid a good 15ft. It was like sliding on ice and it wasn't cold. Bike was brand new. Didn't deal with insurance, but I learned about oem replacement part cost! Bodywork aint cheap and neither are the stickers. I learned that things happen when you least expect it and it's better to be prepared with the gear than not. I learned that cold street bike tires aren't great for traction(especially ones that have been in a cold garage all winter). I learned that not all tire compounds are the same and that the tires on that bike were very hard. And I learned that I needed to pay attention to the pavement conditions...not just looking for loose stone, dry or wet, but also fresh pavement. I learned about checking cold tire pressure. I do not skimp on tires, gear, or maintenance. Theses are expensive, time consuming, and sometimes uncomfortable thing. But, it's just not worth the pain, time lost, and medical bills to f around until you find out.
I had a low side probably going even slower than you but my foot got stuck under the bike as it slid.. broken ankle and torn ligament! When your foot is pointing the wrong direction you'll understand the value of proper boots
I have been riding since 1995 on the roads, passed test on a R/Enfield 700cc in 1956. never ever come off now 85 years old I have been so Lucky. always used the best kit for the times. that I could afford. Mind you I had some Scares. keep safe all Briddy.
Low sided doing 45-50, I slid 60+ feet and seen my bike fly by me throwing sparks, hit a curb and barrel roll 3 times. Leather jacket, gloves, helmet and I still went to work and finished my shift
I remember the day I "discovered" (i.e. became consciously aware of) counter steering. In 1967 on a '66 BSA Lightning on my way from Ardmore to Oklahoma City. For some reason, I pushed on a bar and the bike went in that direction. I must have done a 10 mile slalom trying to make sense of what was happening.
For me, it was completely natural as if my body knew what to do without realizing. However, when I actually learned the term, I started doing it on purpose to make the bike lean in corners. That feeling was unmatched.
My solution to target fixation: use my peripheral vision at all times, and quickly note by locking onto what I want to avoid, followed by immediately looking away.
Men have great peripheral motion detection. I'm a pretty no0b rider, I ride MOST at night (I work at night mostly, and I'm not going to not ride). I've almost had a deer hit me as it just flew through the air about 6 feet in front of me at about 45 miles per hour. Nothing I could've done about that, but every other deer (I've rolled up on over a dozen) I've noticed ahead of time. I pull off the throttle, load the front brake and make my decision. Most of the time they are already booking into the woods. Sometimes I need to honk my horn or rev a few times to get them to stop staring at the light.
I second the wearing your gear, almost a week ago. I had an accident on my bike and my gear saved me, the only thing I wasn’t wearing was my boots, and my foot got a little messed up, but it is healing rather quickly thank God.
As a learner I was taught to look as far ahead down the road as possible, and to rely on peripheral vision to pick up vehicle movements between me and that spot at the end of my vision. So far, 37 years later, it's worked. Give it a go. Get well soon.
when I get to the point when I get target fixated (we literally all do it) I have a 'fuck it' moment and lean or ride over what I think are my limits to get around the issue. You have to think, if I'm gonna crash, I may as well try to do something I don't think I can, if you know what I mean?
@@nunninkav I had just finished the first turn in an S turn. I exited the first half of the S turn too close to the apex of the turn of the second half. Instead of hitting the brakes or leaning into the turn anyway, I just had a brain fart, stared at the road directly in front of me and went off the road. I'm going to consider myself a newbie. I've had 8 weeks so far to ruminate on this turn.
@@CJSOCMD Total control of your bike's direction is simpler than it seems. Many riders overlook it. Handlebars steer the bike; lean and look only help. Master steering for total control.
"Riding the clutch" is a huge no-no in cars. On bikes it is required at low speeds. This mindset change has been one of the biggest hurdles for me thus far.
I gotta be honest. I never wrote the clutch on my motorci. Learned how to drive on a stick car. And I just transitioned over to a motorcycle with it. No collection parking lots. What I would do is control the throttle and the brake. Yeah, it made the engine lock a little bit but I wasn't trying to rev out from a lug.
I've been riding over 45 years including some road racing track time in the 80's and have way too many stories to tell here. I've never ridden a bike with any rider aids and have survived pretty well so far. I was T-Boned by a read light runner when I was 16 and no rider aid could prevent that. I work in Telecommunications doing translations and I agree aids can be helpful in making my job easier but, they also contribute to the dumbing down of a person when it comes to doing it manually. I know how to do my job w/out aids. I've probably had thousands of panic stops for people pulling out in front of me and never laid a bike down doing it. The best thing about being a motorcyclist all these years is that it also made me a better car/truck driver that pays attention to everything. My head is on a swivel no matter what I am am riding/driving. Ride safe everyone.
@@PurpleMonkeyWaffle Sweet! I started on RD250 and then a race prepped RD350 with a head and tail light. The bike in my profile pic is my '76 RD400 that I will own until I die(hopefully not on it).
Last point is best point: ATGATT. Six months back, I was riding a brand new bike home from the dealership on a local highway (seriously, it was 30-miles old 😢). Prius made illegal left turn in front of me and I t-boned it at 50mph before getting “ejected” a few dozen feet down the road. Had my gear, had some luck, and didn’t lose any body parts in the process. Is a wreck LIKELY to happen anytime? Not really. CAN it happen anytime? Absolutely.
Target fixation was one of the most valuable lessons I learned. When you do it right it’s almost you zone out and only see the road waaaaayyyyy I front of you. Everything gets smoother cause you’re unknowingly pre planning everything you need to do before you get there.
As an MSF coach I really appreciate your videos. A lot of the points you bring up, I teach as well. A rule I use for gear is that 30% of your motorcycle budget should be for gear. I understand not everyone can attain that but for most people a motorcycle is an addition to travel not their only option.
30% is a lot of money. I was very gear focused and started with a used Ninja 300 and bought a Snell rated helmet and quality AA/Level 2 gear and it still only worked out to maybe 20% of my budget. If someone is buying a new bike, even a small one, 30% is something like $2.5 of gear.
At 22, I bought my suzi Bandit 1.2L, and just having a healthy fear and respect towards the bike has done me well. No abs, and the throttle is just a cable that opens the butterfly valves. It's simple, and I love it, but the new bikes look like a lot of fun as well.
Carbed bikes are so much smoother and less jerky in throttle response. It annoy me how new bikes are so jerky around slow corners like roundabouts. I never had that issue with a carbed bike over the last almost 30 years riding
Ultimately, gearing up properly and doing as much training as you can will never be a bad thing. I'm still less than a year into my riding experience but there's so much value in finding an empty car park, or roads with plenty of space and visibility and no cars in sight, and practicing maneuvering, braking, countersteering, trail braking, slipping the clutch, etc. The more skills you have, and the more confident you are in those skills, the better prepared you are for situations that demand the most from you.
I have had one incident with target fixation when I was riding a bicycle. There is a solution if you really want to look at something you're trying to avoid(for whatever reason...). You first turn your face to the exit and then if you want to look at the thing, just turn your eyeballs to look at the thing and not your face. Your eyeballs can move, use that motion.
I learnt about target fixation when we were kids, when we were riding bikes and my friend face planted himself on a wall after going downhill. We found it funny because it totally looked and was avoidable, especially since it's an area we're very familiar with. Always kept in mind to look for an escape in certain situations after that, and only later realised that we learned a pretty valuable lesson that day.
Not letting my bike warm up. I swear if I am gonna dump it, it will be 300 yards from house on up hill stop. While my bike is not warm and being jerky. It seems that unwanted wheelie happens then. Were if I don't give it gas it will come backup. Need to trust it won't stall and longer warm up helps with trust and less jerky actions.
Steering on a two wheeled vehicle is applying force on the handlebars in the opposite direction that you want to turn, which will turn the handlebars into that direction. If you try to push the handlebars to the right, they will move to the left. When you're trying to make controlled adjustments to your turn, being aware of this might give you much better control, because otherwise you're just fighting with your intuition
Target fixation almost got me once but luckily I looked away n it saved me was entering a sharp corner at the same time a truck was coming I was coming in too Hard n noticed I was so worried about running into the other lane of the truck that I actually was driving into it I started focusing on the exit n that was how I slowed down in time and made my exit safely
Learned about counter steering while riding outside my limit. I was riding at night with experienced riders who were about a tenth of a mile ahead of me and I was trying to keep up. It was dark and I hit a sharp corner at about 25 miles per hour faster than I would have normally, my brain reacted, I threw the bike to the left (counter steered) hard. I figured worst case dump the bike, best case make the turn. I made it. And at the moment realized what counter steering was.
Good lesson, thanks for sharing. We tend to think of countersteering as an aggressive or panic technique which it was and worked. We counter steer in every turn 100% of the time, and most of that time it's so subtle we don't realise we're doing it.
I was walking my bike up a ramp to my truck bed. The throttle stuck at like less than 5%, and shot out of hands, up the bed, hit the wood I had piled at the front, and went soaring over the cab. No damage to the truck, and only a loose neutral light lens on the tac and the speedometer is wonky. (Both of which were prior issues anyway) That being said, respect the power of the throttle, especially on a 50 year old dirt bike with a hi-low gear box.
Just rode my own motorcycle for the first time this evening. I've been watching your content since i took the MSF course 3 weeks ago. It was definitely nerve wracking but i remembered some of the points you've mentioned over and over again, and I felt a lot more confident than I wouldve without these.
Have fun and stay safe out there! Always assume the drivers around you will do the dumbest things possible and be prepared for that. I've been cut off and had people start coming into my lane countless times while on my bike.
I've target fixated once, and never made that mistake again. Was my 2nd or 3rd time riding, and coming out of a corner I focused on a brand new energy plant tower they built off in the distance. By the time I noticed I was heading off my line, I couldn't correct it and instead slowed enough, stayed straight and coasted to a stop without dropping the bike. Of course I was aware of target fixation, but had no clue what it was actually like. Now I do 😅 Being reliant on rider aids is something I've been making sure does not occur. For instance, my Kawasaki has a slipper clutch. So I can downshift and never worry about losing the back wheel (though it can definitely throw you over the front with the sudden deceleration). I made sure to practice proper downshifts/blips regardless, and now I never even notice the slipper controlling the slip on the rear tire. Rider aids are redundant but extremely useful in the event you do make a mistake or panic in an emergency situation. They DEFINITELY come in handy. Certain ones even help you focus more on the ride and staying safe as compared to ensuring you do not make a mistake and overlook that car braking in front of you suddenly because you were focused on blipping correctly. Etc... Practicing is great 👍🏼 But only perfect practice makes perfect 🤘🏼
I almost had a horrible accident a few years back. The car in front of me suddenly changed lanes and I saw the load of lumber in my path. There wasn't room to stop and I started to fixate on what I was about to hit. However I heard the voice of my instructor in my head yelling, Find the escape path and look at it. Thankfully the bike was light and very flickable. I managed to find and follow the path that avoided every board. After passing through that, I couldn't believe that I pulled it off.
i havent rode in like 10 or so years but, teaching rev matching when down shifting helps with braking as well. using the engine to help as the brake helps significantly, the reliance on the brakes is minimal especially coming off a highway/interstate.
Thanks for the quick TJD slam. I've ridden for years, but i do pick up some tips from you. I also appreciate your well structured videos. Your funny and informative. Thanks.
Never stop saying to wear proper gear!! I see a lot of both experieced and new riders in shorts, tee and flic-flocs in summer. It's better to feel hot than hurt ❤
I’ve been watching you since 2017 and finally got around to getting my license only this week. I love riding so much and want you to know how much you’ve inspired me to ride and the things you’ve taught in the videos have totally set me up for success.
...regarding target fixation crashes.... I strongly believe that the whole conception of "the bike will go where you look" is a faulty way of explaining and teaching steering on a motorcycle, done by many people. You don't steer with your eyes; you steer with your hands. So the bike will go were your hands tell it to go, not your eyes. Best practice for me personally is to actively and consiusly steer with my hands - countersteer, all the time, and use my eyes to verify the results of my actions. I believe it is a good habit to have.
90% of "target fixation" incidents have zero to do with target fixation and are simply failures to apply enough steering input. It's the "had to lay her down" of the sport bike world.
If you look/ focus on something, you will absolutely end up there. You keep looking at that ditch, on your right side, and you're going into that ditch. Don't believe me, try it out 🤣. Look where you want to go, period ● 👍
@ARCNA442 strongly disagree mostly. If actively engaged and alert situationally I agree with you, but where I personally have encountered this issue, is, as a seasoned 71 year old with 59 years of trail, flattrack on 1/4 mile clay track, tt scrambles motocross and now a 2023 xsr 900. I am thankful for muscle memory reactive skills that, while I lazily at about 65 mph on blacktop rural residential rolling hills sweeping wide curve slightly downhill sloping to deep drainage no shoulder, mailboxes, driveways and culverts. A little wide and approaching quickly the edge of blacktop dropping 2 inches to dirt, mailboxes etc. Was past the point of lean over and still have tires on traction. My body reverted to .. keep it upright thread the needle thru and over driveways culverts, mailboxes, shrubs and a couple of driveway boulders and a landscape fence. Kept her upright 60 yards from my drop of attention point to my safe landing in a dirt ditch stopped on those track tires. What a wake up call. Just needed a fresh pair of underwear and a little assist from a couple of friendly landscapers who helped me power up out of said ditch to the safety of the road I left by distraction of 1 second that prompted my adrenaline ride.. be mindful and alert. .
@@kevinpirello7746 Thanks for sharing your experience and it's a great reminder that no matter how skilled you are, motorcycling needs to be taken seriously. Maybe I'm misinterpreting, but from the description of the incident it sounds more like being afraid to lean (because you were unprepared for the situation) rather than being target fixated on a hazard and unintentionally riding into it.
Thanks for reading my account of attention deficit, or horizon scanning for deer or is that a radar trap over yonder while the uneven ribbon of asphalt under me is no longer gonna be available to my tires as the needed left lean event was now on dirt with a loose topping of pea gravel. At 60 mph. So target fixation was not as accurate as.. at that event horizon, when countersteer, lean into it, trust your tires. Immediately changes to steer and point this projectile to stay upright, avoid large objects find a way, place to scrub off speed and stick the landing. But I have had, turn avoidance paralysis. Where on a dirt bike traveling down a heavily rutted road, I was fixated on the ruts and mentally locked up where I couldn't make myself turn out of them. I had to stop, shake my head. Reset my thoughts then continue. I think the term fixation used here covers an experience that we can all relate to as we remember a time we kind of panicked as we find ourselves too wide, too fast, with little options left. Be it fixated, over speed, tightening radius, or inattentive of changing surfaces. I appreciate the remembering and sharing the varied ways to get in trouble or go flying off the road. Reminds us all to stay alert and on the road if possible and have a plan B if the road becomes unavailable to your tires and you are instantly an off roader. Thanks.
pertaining to the gear portion of the video. YES! Always get proper safety rated gear, and ALWAYS WEAR IT! Story time: My Dad worked in Law Enforcement, he'd always use his bike to go down to Academy every time it was held. ALWAYS wore his gear, was coming home one day taking an exit behind a giant gravel truck, staying his distance away (further than the 200 feet recommendation), rock pops up from the truck, he tried to dodge it hits his back tire and my dad goes super man over the bike. No major injuries stated other than major bruises and road rash. 2nd Crash he got into: Wearing no gear at all just down the road from his house, going to a neighbors house for eggs (lives on a dirt road). Jackass comes flying down the dirt road, dad swerves hits a pot hole and he lands on his side. Dislocated his shoulder and broke his collar bone. He was only going 10 mph on the dirt road vs 60 mph behind that truck. GEAR SAVES LIVES!
This is perfect timing since I just got my first bike today and did my first town drive 2 hours ago. My biggest issue was using the clutch to much to coast and I need to learn to countersteer. Took the MSF course so a lot of the more basic stuff I got down
Welcome to the club. It's good that you're recognising your faults. That gives you something to practice. You will get better! My top tip: Watch out for internet experts!
Congratulations homie! Practice Practice Practice!!! Watch out for the "Other Drivers" a Whole Bunch of Idiots out there that will pull directly into your path constantly! Deer and dogs too! Be safe bro, Enjoy 💯
Don't ever think you've got the basics down, because you finished your MSF cource. That was just the introduction to the book of motorcycling. Now you may open it to chapter one. Have fun learning to ride.
Congrats, that said keep practicing the basics you do not have them down and never will. I've been riding since I was 11 (I'm 33 now) I still regularly practice and occasionally fuck up the most basic things you can do on a motorcycle. Never stop practicing it will keep you healthy
I remember during my rider safety course we were told not to cover the front brake and would get points off if we did. As soon as the course ended, the teacher said “remember how we said not to cover the front break? yeah forget that.”
yes you sould keep doing that since this is the right thing to do for emergency and since your rpm is low its also eazy to turn if you can't come to a stop , also if you break hard before a turn this also help cuz you are less chance to trigger ABS since the back weel dont get push by the motor
As long as your RPMs aren't low enough to make the bike jitter or stall, just hover the clutch while using the engine braking, and only pull in the clutch when you are in low enough RPMs and then you can use the brakes more
When you pull in the clutch you essentially take power away from the drive wheel. Where only rear brake is needed. I will coast to stops coming downhills. You don't need added power. I can stop plenty short of my stop, and don't really need to apply front brake.
If you need to stop in the shortest distance possible, not pulling in the clutch is cause your stopping distance to increase. If you don't pull in the clutch during an emergency stop, your brakes are fighting against the residual energy the engine is applying to the rear wheel and once you lower your speed to a certain point the engine will stall and then very bad things can and usually do happen. But hey, clicks.
stalling the bike is usually not the biggest concern when trying to make an 'emergency' stop. primary concern is usually not dying by getting plastered all over the side or back of a truck.
@@WaffleShortage RIght after that stop in the shortest distance possible, as you sit there with a stalled engine and can't get out of the way on another vehicle coming at you, you'll wonder why you didn't pull in the clutch when stopping since it takes no more time and gives you options you don't have with a stalled engine. A motorcycle with a non-running engine is one of the worst possible positions to be in while on the public roads. A running engine is one of the most important safety items a motorcyclist has because not being able to get out of the way of another vehicle is right up there with the deer in the headlights look at you made the stop and then can't even move out of the way of other vehicles. Sorry, the biggest concern is not just the stop but what you do right after the stop because many riders make the stop only to be plowed from behind by car drivers. WHen you make your "panic" stop you had better be looking in your rearview mirrors to make sure the vehicles behind you are also stopping. WIth a stalled engine what will you do if the car behind you doesn't stop, pull in the clutch, hit the starter botton and hope you are fast enough to get out of the way? Hope is not a plan. It takes far longer to pull in the clutch, hit the starter button and then hope you're in a gear that the engine can move you out of the way that pulling in the clutch as you stop, shifting your transmission into a gear that lets you power out of harms way if needed that just grabbing a handful and praying. Explain how I'm not correct.
And just to add, if you can't manage to operate the clutch (left hand) and the front brake (right hand) and rear brake (right foot) at the same time you've never learned how to ride a motorcycle properly and before you get on a public road, take a safety course. This whole don't pull in the clutch during a panic or short stop is rediculous. Who makes up this stuff?
I only passed last year in the UK (at the age of 40) and one of the best things I learned was coasting and then slowly re-engaging the clutch for slow speed cornering. Controlling the power delivery will improve your confidence and means you can ride more progressively., especially in slow traffic and urban areas. Plus the streets in the UK are narrow with mini-roundabouts!
im having to learn to ride a dual-sport in the middle of a horrible american metropolitan area where it's ALL just low speed stop-signs everywhere with tons of traffic searching for street parking and stuff... and then 6-lane highways dumping straight into that.
I just experienced what happens with bad habbits.(nit really a bad habit just don't have tone of experience riding.) But I used the front break mid turn because I took a sharp turn a little too fast and was going to go off road that led to a cliff side. And low sided and broke a rib lol. Practice is key to riding safe. Be careful out there people the road is unforgiving to all
When I first started riding, I had a fall at under 20mph while filtering. I had a jacket, helmet and gloves and my upper body was completely fine, but the trainers didn’t keep up all that well and I fractured my toe and banged up my ankle. That was a good enough warning to get proper boots and pants too.
This is good advice , lots of experienced make these mistakes as well. It's important to learn how to ride correctly. Practice makes perfect too. Work on your braking , using the friction zone , etc. Find an empty parking lot and practice. In an emergency , you want your responses to be automatic. If you have to think about it, you'll take too long.
To all new riders: the "look where you want to go" is mostly useful when doing u turns. If you don't understand how to use countersteering , no amount of looking will help turn the bike. Having good vision through your turn and seeing where you want to end up is essential for good lines. But once again, no amount of leaning or looking will turn your bike without the use if countersteering.
I disagree with 1 thing you said about clutch use. When I am coming to a stop, I pull the clutch in and shift slowly down to neutral, or 1st if the light turns green when I'm almost stopped, or stay in 2nd if the cars start moving before I come to a stop.
Getting my first liter bike soon the 2023 honda fireblade and damn have so many of your videos gotten me to this point started out proably like most and can now ride no handed and do a donut with multiple 600cc suzukis you do a better job explaining shit then most and the skill its given me is GODLY.
It's so weird to watch this video as a european rider. Like i thougth maybe i can learn something as a new rider (4 months) but it's all basic stuff you need to know to even get your license.
It’s weird that that you think it’s weird to watch this video 😂. You can get a learner permit without even getting on a bike in the states. Then you have to ride with someone licensed if you get on the road.
@getbusylivenordien5394 what comment? There’s over 1k comments. Everything he said in the video is what’s taught by professionals. Everything is in the twist of the wrist videos too. Where are you getting your info?
I’ve been riding since I was a kid. Grew up racing motocross in Alabama until my early twenties. 35 now and have a TW200, Fat Bob with a 120, and my favorite bike GS R1250. Videos like this are great to keep me grounded. (No pun intended)
since i'm in europe i'm right now on a 50cc but still make the mistake of target fixation, i'm gonna try to break most of my bad habits so i can start good on a 125cc. appreciate the advice!
I rented a personal water craft recently and I swear it took me a solid 10+ minutes to figure out that they don't counter steer. Once it clicked in my brain, I still found myself instinctively wanting to push the left handlebar instead of pull. I was very pleased that there was minimal traffic on the lake!
I was putting too much of my weight on my hands starting out and it caused my right hand to get tired really fast. I was not able to smoothly roll on or off the throttle and it would cause the bike to lug or jump. Now I know to hold myself up with my legs and use just enough grip on the handle bars to stay in control.
On a road bike, leaning on the bars isn't good practice. Obviously, when you're braking hard or accelerating flat out, things change, but the more neutral that you are when turning, the better.
It's all in your Abdominal muscles. Hold your weight with your core and thighs. You'll definitely appreciate it if you hit a bad spot in the road and start a "Death Wobble"☠️💯 I've heard that you should hold your bars like you'd hold a child's hand. Firm but delicately. Ride safe
Many cruisers have the front and rear brake combo foot brake. Also nothing is hurt from clutch in coasting if an issue arises you can also let the clutch back out to increase engine braking or to add power to the rear wheel
Agree, I can’t see clutch coasting being an issue unless you don’t properly match the gear with your bike speed as you slow down. Worst case scenario you just let the clutch back out and you’re back to normal.
It didn’t take to long to get rid of target fixation since I almost went in to the side of an opposing car. After that I understood how truly important it is to focus on where to go. I almost crashed ones due to under loading the front in combination with low tire pressure.
Thank you for this video, but it conflicts with something I've heard from another motorcycle TH-cam channel. 5:00 "If your clutch is not fully engaged, ..." Meanwhile, from a MotoJitsu video, I heard squeezing the clutch lever completely was unnecessary and incorrect. Each of you have highly respectable content, but which is the best procedure?
The whole clutch section was ambiguous as hell. Says don't hold it in to stop. If he means while coasting to a stop sure, but at some point you have to pull it in. Also the clip of the rider making him sick doesn't even show the clutch hand it's so dark, all you can hear are just slow shifts and he doesn't explain why it made him sick lol
Thanks for the video! One big starting mistake I see many new riders committing is starting with a too powerful bike. The fetishes and eagerness to brag often lead to bad outcomes (many times fatal). Ridding without proper gear and mixing alcohol and bike as well.
In Australia Learners are limited to bikes with a low power to weight ratio. There's a whole list of them and they are advertised as LAMS bikes, where LAMS stands for Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme. As you can imagine, there is a high turnover in these bikes.
@@Tamaresque I like this model. Here in the US, we see elderly and young riders going for very heavy (Harleys) and/or very powerful (Sport/Naked) first bikes. The things you see happening on the streets, and stories from motorcycle dealerships and hospital workers, are not good.
Enjoyed your "First wet ride - Honda CB 125R" video and you were great.Deserved your third 👍. If you can survive lanesplitting as an apparent national pastime then the rain is nothing! Good job.
I just started riding after the MSF class and watching just about everything on TH-cam for tips. All good in theroy, but the only way you learn is commiting to it and doing it, but having the knowledge is going to help huge! I stupidly bought a Nightser, I had it in rain mode for 2 days then went right into "standard" Throttle control is still easy, but I have respect for what the bike is capable of (90hp is no joke!) Getting a little spicy it has cought me off guard how quickly you can accelerate, lots of fun, but I respect that things can go south real quick. Target fixation isn't a problem because if I catch myself eying an obstacle, I consciously tell my head to look where I WANT to go. The tricky part is figuring out how fast to slow for a turn and just building up that muscle memory coming to a stop and putting a foot down. In all, I'm glad Im on 2 wheels and looking forward to becoming a competent and safe rider.
Got my first motorcycles 5 or 6 months ago. I was taking my 125cc dirtbike down the street (I was going 40 which was 5mph over the speed limit) A lady was backing out of her driveway way to fucking fast and in the moment i purposely locked up my wheel and crashed because she would have hit me if i didn't. I also didnt have insurance on the thing because i had just gotten it and didnt take it on rode like ever but that day i decided to. so i crash and all i had on were jeans a hoodie and a helmet. suprisingly i didnt get cut up to bad and the hood on my hoodie was the only thing that ripped. Road rash sucked for a bit but im okay. The lady did NOT get out of her car to help she just drove away faster and ran the stop sign. Anyways my point is hes right about the wearing gear part i probably wouldnt have had a ear if i wasnt wearing the helmet and i would have for sure had a major concussion. So to anyone looking to get their first bike please at the very least if you cant afford much gear buy a good helmet and then wear 2 layers of hoodies/jackets and jeans. it will save you alot. Normal Riding gear is still better but at the very least wear those.
Been riding 2 years. First even bike Honda Rebel 1100. Always in a hiking boot for mobility, good pair of jeans, a leather or jean jacket with a full face helmet always. Never had an accident, not a scratch on the bike, no safety course taken. If you’re a good driver and always consider safety and have a profound appreciation for your life and the things you own. The only danger is a stranger.
I’m not even gonna lie to you yammie I made the ultimate beginner decision….. bought me a gen 1 Busa w 0 zero previous experience, just gotta say man when people say you need experience, YOU NEED EXPERIENCE, these things are not a joke however my coworkers find it comedic that I started on one, of course I’m being extra careful & cautious and yet it’s still mentally exhausting to keep tame.
Respect her or She will Definitely PUNISH YOU! Ride safe and enjoy. P.S. Resist the Urge to tempt your fate! She offers more HP/TQ than most anyone can tame realistically.
It isn't really because it works at any speed, which Yammie got wrong. 5mph or 50mph, doesn't matter. Watch MotoJitsu's videos, ask any Police motorcycle rider or take advanced courses, they will tell you the CORRECT information. Or heck, even try it for yourself. Cruise in 2nd or 3rd at idle and very lightly push the left handlebar (turning the bars right), you will lean left, then the bars will follow the direction of turn (left). - This is also what happens at higher speeds too, just less noticeable.
@@cadetwolf1234 He definitely is lol. People always say "at low speed I just turn the bars left to go left" - People think that when you're counter steering at high speeds, your handlebars and wheel never point in the direction of turn. They fail to realise that counter steering only initiates the lean, then the handlebars and wheel will always go in the direction you're going. It's just at low speeds you only need a super gentle push in the opposite direction to initiate the lean. Like yeah, the bars do go left while turning left, but only after a super gentle input to the right. I always tell people to stick a camera on their helmet, go do a few turns in a parking lot at 5-10mph and upload it to TH-cam so I can prove them wrong, no one ever does lol. I could go on all day about this topic, I've argued with so many people about it, they just can't believe they're doing something subconsciously. They only believe it at higher speeds because it requires more force which is more noticeable. It's nice to know there's people out there who actually know what they're doing! :)
pretty sure she told you that so when your dad came home he didn't see the lid up from her boyfriend taking a pee , the normal deal for a man is always leave with it down lol
Another good one is do not engine brake without using your actual brakes. Drivers and riders behind you might not be able to tell you are slowing down if you are not using your brakes, as in your rear brake light will not be activated if you aren't using your front or rear brake
Big head turns have been the most helpful for me to get the bike where i want it to go. It feels unnatural at first, but once you trust that process it makes your life so much easier.
Very good video Yammie. My shortfall was, I bought a low ankle motorcycle boots for $150. I got hit twice from behind. First while sitting at a red light and the 2nd time I was pulling over on the highway to help another motorcyclist and had slowed down to about 15 mph. Both times my bike (2023 honda cbr 650r - about 450 lbs) fell on my foot. The last time it fractured my right fibula. I immediately upgraded my boots to the Alpinestars SMX-6 v2 Vented Boots. Cost about $300 but it offers much much greater protection for street riding. I agree riding with the right gear is very important.
My first bike is a Honda NTV 650, It's 30 years old, I'm 26.... no ABS, no anything! just me and the bike, I'm riding for 1,5 years and I think this is the best I could do, still learning but it helped to understand and learn alot of stuff. by the way, my next bike will be a Honda VFR 800, old but good.
Fellow Yams! When waiting at a stop sign or light, is it better for your clutch to sit in 1st with clutch pulled in, or just go to neutral until it’s time to go? Does it even matter? I do both, depending on how much time I have to wait. Neutral if I’m gonna be there for a min.
I always put it in neutral but, ready to jam in gear at any moment to take off if it looks like I might get hit. When you hold in the clutch you are actually slipping it and creating wear on it. When you let go of the clutch the plates get locked together by the springs. The only wear you get is when engaging or releasing the clutch or as the plates start wearing out. High performance clutches have stronger springs to help prevent slipping. Most motorcycle clutches are in oil to help reduce that wear but, you do see race bike setups with dry clutches that don't last as long.
Leaving it in first means you only need to put your left foot down and are ready to go when the light turns green. Putting it into neutral gets awkward fast.
@@ARCNA442 I always put right foot down and hold front brake and left foot is on peg ready to shift bike into gear if need be. The question was is it better for the clutch to be held in while stopped and it is not. That is when the clutch is slipping and wearing the most. I've never had an issue taking off fast enough if I need to. 45 years of putting it in neutral never felt awkward to me.
@@RedBud315 The clutch isn't slipping and wearing when you're holding it in unless you aren't pulling the lever all the way or your clutch isn't adjusted properly. If it was actually slipping then the bike would start moving if you let go of the brake.
I randomly found your channel, thanks for tips. I just got my first bike, a Kawasaki Z650. My dad who is a Harley rider mostly took me out to a big parking lot today and showed me what do to. I stalled a solid 6 or 7 times. But got up to 3rd gear. It was scary for me because it was at night and none of my gear has come in yet but my dad flies off Maui this Saturday and we didn't have much time for me to learn from him. I'll be riding it around my neighborhood until I finally get comfortable
New rider here, been out about a dozen times and getting more comfortable each time out. I no longer have anxiety, but one of things I do is pull the clutch in and coast. I do that often riding in city streets. Now that I’m aware, I’ll be mindful of that and correct it.
The biggest problem for me was looking at the ground in front of me, worrying what’s on the ground, rather than looking where I’m going. You’ll end up in a bush. Look ahead, ie where you’re going, not what’s on the ground. Your bike will go in that direction. You’ll intuitively see the immediate ground whether looking ahead or not.
I have to admit, I just got my motorcycle license at 25 (on monday), in the driving school the instructor said to never use the front brake and was all like (you're gonna frontflip and front wheelie whatever), I got myself an mt07(same bike I got in the driving school) before I even got a license because I waited for a month to get to the passing the drivers test part and I quickly learned that front brake braking is nothing to be scared of, its way more effective and makes it feel more like car braking and its stable I do have to admit I did watch a great deal of youtube videos during nights thinking if I should start riding and I tried most of the things I've seen, countersteering is the only thing I still don't have full experience with, I did do my first 'great' tour on tuesday (yes a day after getting the drivers license) and obv with lack of experience I didn't have the guts to try and do it on the highway going above 140kmh (we have curvy highways in Croatia)
You might of misunderstood the driving instructor about not using the front brake, he could of been referring to to low speed maneuvering in car parks etc. the use of the front brake being used while maneuvering can cause the front wheel to skid, especially on gravel surfaces, whereas using the rear brake in this instance will help with a controlled tight turn. The narrator was talking about counter steering, this is something that is quite advanced for a beginner and I would concentrate on your approach speed into the corner and road position to help with taking the corner smoother. The counter steering is more use for motor cycle racing and riders who ride faster on the road. I wish you many years of successful riding.
Good video! To add on to the point about countersteering, everyone says "lean left, push left, go left." I want to add that at higher speeds, simply pushing in the direction you want to go isn't enough. It's good to practice pulling for the opposite direction you want to go too. So "lean left, push left, pull right." This probably won't be used much until you're riding at 50mph+ and will NEED to be used at 80+.
Tip 1 I'm already familiar with. Before I ever bought a motorcycle I did a Basic Rider Course. Said basic rider course went over the usage of Brakes and encouraged us to use all brakes at once. On a private lot most of use even experienced locking up our brakes and were taught how to mitigate that. This to a degree helped out when recently I went through a Decisive Driver's program where we drove both cars and semi trucks with and without ABS. Some of the instructors were impressed thinking that maybe I was somebody that learned to drive without ABS. Where this ties together is that Cruiser riders tend to be much older. They tend to have less trust in "newer" ways. Now I'm not saying that's always a bad thing but in our Decisive Driver's course one of the oldest students didn't like nor trust ABS and boy did he find out just how great they can be. In an emergency situation it can cut your stopping distance in Half if not better. They certainly aren't a be all do all but they can help a tone of people avoid hairy situations. Something else to add is that the majority of motorcycles don't have ABS. So in emergency situations you have to pump your brakes otherwise you'll lock them up. Also don't brake through a corner. If you have to brake bring the bike straight up and brake hard. During our training we were taught that the average person can pump the brake 2 times per second. ABS can do it 15 times per second. ABS can also brake individual wheels while a person is all or nothing. And just in case you've forgotten ABS stands for Anti-Lock Braking and Steering. If you're wheels lock up it doesn't matter how much you turn that wheel, you're going straight until you let go of that brake. The one thing I'm still really bad with is my clutch. Doesn't matter if its a Motorcycle or a giant semi-truck I struggle with that clutch. Well at least with keeping things smooth. Good enough to where I've passed all of my test and have a class ABCDM license. Plus if you don't take you commercial drivers test in a manual you'll have an Automatic Restriction on your license making it illegal for you to drive a CMV with a manual.
After 42 years riding bikes, I can say that all the bad Habits are real. This video is not only for beginners, I know a lot of old bikers which still have them. Regards from Germany.
Took my MSF course last week, passed,went to the highway trooper an took the written motorcycle test, passed that then went to the DMV an had the endorsement put on my DL. Now just waiting to buy bike 💪
Using rear break together with front brake quick controlled stops and using rear brake solo with clutch for low speed manoeuvring and cornering is taught in riding lessons where I live. Helped me out a ton. Dragging rear break for low speed u-turns or hairpin corners etc makes a huge, huge difference in stability for me.
5:53 so true. Even with doing 10 - 15 k km per year, sometimes I find myself doing exactly this thing wrong and then it's a struggle to get out of the situation again. Don't get distracted by the oncoming traffic! Look you line!
Just wrapped up my 1st year of riding. I did 11k miles between my Ducati Streetfighter V4SP2 and Fireblade. I'm not guilty of any of these other than the ABS...its only happened twice but I could feel the rear ABS saving my bacon when emergency stopping.
@@gregbradshaw8679They are actually my 2nd and 3rd bikes for my 1st year. My left leg is mostly paralyzed so I bought and Africa Twin Adventure Sports just to see if I could ride and handle a bike. Couple months of riding daily I bought the other two bikes. I'm very far from a novice but even further from a expert level. I ride routinely with A group riders on the street just to practice techniques like trail braking, body position, line selection, etc. I'll often have one of the expert riders follow and film to and we'll watch and critique the video after and work on corrections/advancement on our next outing. I also commute on the Africa Twin every chance I get, just for more seat time in weird traffic patterns. Not everyone who starts on a liter bike is an idiot squid. I'm 40 years old and have built and raced cars that would absolutely obliterate either of my super bikes in the 1/4 mile.
I have an 26 years old BMW R850RT with independent brakes, and I use them both to stop the machine. On the other hand, my 2020 R1250RT has a brake distributor, when you apply the front brake the thing uses the rear brake automatically. You still can use the rear brake alone when necessary stepping on the pedal.
I down shift to stop, I use compression braking. Meanwhile using the front brake. Never keep the clutch engaged while coasting to a stop. It's a great way to prematurely wear out the clutch. When i shift, I don't fully engage the clutch. I keep slight pressure on the shift peg, and pull the clutch until the bike synchros mesh. It will literally fall into gear, usually with only pulling the clutch in about a 1/2"-3/4"in. I also shift without the clutch, synchros, the gears will find their mesh point. I often trail brake with my Rocket. It's a big heavy bike, and sometimes trail braking is necessary to navigate the turn at high speeds. I've been doing it that way for over 55yrs.😎 I've never locked up the rear wheel, unless I'm trying to.😅 Stay Safe Ya'll!!!
Personally after watching Robert Simmons, I trade off the front brake with the rear coming to a stop. This is great once practiced, especially on a cruiser or a heavy tourer. One should always stop with the feet on the pegs, balance, and the left should be one that comes off, as the right should be on the rear brake.
As a beginner I think i overuse the rear brake in commuting enviorment and use the front just for the final actual stop at the lights. I also have my clutch pulled often to kinda avoid both engine brake and the use actual brakes when needed. i don` t know if that`s right or wrong but it makes the ride much smoother...especially with a passenger. Cheres.
Target fixation: I commented about it in may people's crash videos. There are always a bunch of squids that come and tell me "there is no such thing as target fixation, this is a word made up by people who just suck at riding". Thank you for talking about it in this video. Target fixation is a KILLER. I used to have it, not afraid to admit it. I would be looking really close in front of me, and have a tendency to look at the outside of the curve, where I didn't want to go, and inevitably, thats where I went. I never crashed, but I had a few close calls. Since I learnt to look far into the curves, and especially look where I want to go, not where I don't want to go, I have improved my cornering skills tenfolds... I used to have 2 inch wide chicken strips, now they're a half inch, and I am not afraid to loose the bike in curves anymore. ALL just from where I put my eyes in a curve.
The day I was picking up my first bike my buddy started drilling into my head a few key things. 1 target fixations. First day of riding I forgot as I went into a long turn. I wasn’t turning just headed straight for a barbed wire fence. I said to myself “this turn really isn’t going well” and I was braking hard then close to the fence I remembered target fixation. Thankfully no cars were coming in the oncoming lane. My buddy was riding behind me damn near in tear thinking he got me killed day one lol. But yeah got lucky and learned that lesson without actually crashing
I've been riding my 765rs for two years with all the rider aids and goodies.. finally got my dream bike (MV Agusta F4) with no rider aids and it's surprising how quick skills like rev-matching deteriorate when you're used to a quickshifter/slipper clutch!
![ลองสุ่มไอโฟน 990 โกงมั้ย? [ โกงมั้ยครับ ep.101 ] | DOM](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/bfsWe0j492k/mqdefault.jpg)
Win our GIVEAWAY motorcycles by becoming a member @ www.yammienoob.co/ and get 10X entries to win my GSX-8R for a limited time!
If you win do you keep the motorcycle or is it a temporary thing?
@@minorityhunterzoro2238 Keepers
Did the store stop selling gear? I only see merch and giveaways
@@minorityhunterzoro2238 all yours dude
I don’t think you mean what you are saying at 5:40.
“Coasting with the clutch pulled in, there is no force being put on the brakes or wheels”
Agreed, no engine braking, obviously no brake force if you haven’t started to apply the brakes. You make it sound like you can’t brake with the clutch pulled in. Let’s confirm the procedure to new riders stopping. Clutch in, throttle closed…… progressively apply both brakes, knees squeezing the tank, eyes up to pick an escape route or distance to stop at.
the biggest mistake a beginner rider can do is not putting a turbo on your hayabusa
too funny
Or getting a hayabusa in general
@@HobbitOfChaosyep they got nerfed. Zx-14r
😂💯
Motorcycle endorsement? What's that
Can you please stop doing the “keep watching Yammie Noob” at the end of each video? I have to go to work
Seriously, please. Makes it nearly impossible to share your videos with people who aren't used to you yet.
😂😂😂😂😂😂
As a new rider I learn from all these guys
Keep watching yammie noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooob
@@BigVictor They gon learn today
Basically...take a safety course. All of these items are covered in DETAIL in a decent MSF riding course.
this this this
Always take a proper safety course!
No MSF here in Costa Rica 😢
Took one seven years ago but I just finally got a bike
@@yammienoob Absolutely!! Quick question, though! You're an insanely great resource for reasonable, responsible, and downright good motorcycle riding tips and habits. Just like the MSF. The ONE difference, is my MSF instruction (several years ago), always drilled into my head to always use all 4 fingers pulling the clutch and the front brake levers. I often see many very good riders (yourself included) doing the 2 finger method, which my instructor (rider of 20+ years) said is not ideal. Any thoughts on this?
I got my motorcycle license in 2012 and had my first lowside (just under 30 mph) and injury last fall. Broke my collar bone. I was geared up, and without it would have faired much worse. Armored shirt and gloves were shredded. Helmet face shield was destroyed, but my face is still pretty.😉 Riding pants frayed, but hip armour took the hit and slide. Bike landed/slid on my leg, and I was still in the riding position once I stopped. Anyway, I count myself lucky I got away with only a broken collar bone. Without the safety gear, it would have been worse. Wear it.
Happened to me back in the mid 00's. Learned some good lessons. North East in Feb. Random hot day and I was itching to get it out the garage having been three or four months since last ride. I got it out geared up and it was after sundown so it started cooling. A block away from the house was a new round about with fresh asphalt. Lowsided. Bike slid, I slid, still remember it till this day. I had jeans, boots gloves, helmet. Not a scratch on me. Not even on my jeans and I slid a good 15ft. It was like sliding on ice and it wasn't cold.
Bike was brand new. Didn't deal with insurance, but I learned about oem replacement part cost! Bodywork aint cheap and neither are the stickers.
I learned that things happen when you least expect it and it's better to be prepared with the gear than not.
I learned that cold street bike tires aren't great for traction(especially ones that have been in a cold garage all winter).
I learned that not all tire compounds are the same and that the tires on that bike were very hard.
And I learned that I needed to pay attention to the pavement conditions...not just looking for loose stone, dry or wet, but also fresh pavement.
I learned about checking cold tire pressure.
I do not skimp on tires, gear, or maintenance. Theses are expensive, time consuming, and sometimes uncomfortable thing. But, it's just not worth the pain, time lost, and medical bills to f around until you find out.
I had a low side probably going even slower than you but my foot got stuck under the bike as it slid.. broken ankle and torn ligament! When your foot is pointing the wrong direction you'll understand the value of proper boots
I have been riding since 1995 on the roads, passed test on a R/Enfield 700cc in 1956. never ever come off now 85 years old I have been so Lucky. always used the best kit for the times. that I could afford. Mind you I had some Scares. keep safe all Briddy.
Low sided doing 45-50, I slid 60+ feet and seen my bike fly by me throwing sparks, hit a curb and barrel roll 3 times. Leather jacket, gloves, helmet and I still went to work and finished my shift
@@daltonoelke-hamm good for you man glad you were gtg. Sorry about the bike though :/
There is no beginner gear, only protective and unprotective
So not true.
@@toportimeexplain
@@toportime explain
@@toportime explain
Airbag clothes. Beginners best friend. Look into it please
I remember the day I "discovered" (i.e. became consciously aware of) counter steering. In 1967 on a '66 BSA Lightning on my way from Ardmore to Oklahoma City. For some reason, I pushed on a bar and the bike went in that direction. I must have done a 10 mile slalom trying to make sense of what was happening.
Love youtube to hear stories like this. Like a caveman discovering fire lmao just kidding.
@@kevinm.n.5158 Not all that far off. 😁
I, also from OK, learned this on the highway 9 exit in Norman. Late 90's
For me, it was completely natural as if my body knew what to do without realizing. However, when I actually learned the term, I started doing it on purpose to make the bike lean in corners. That feeling was unmatched.
Do they even let people that old on youtube?
My solution to target fixation: use my peripheral vision at all times, and quickly note by locking onto what I want to avoid, followed by immediately looking away.
I physically turn my head to the direction I want the bike to go and that takes care of it.
The episode in Frasier on his cycle into the mail box / tree / is a great example of target fixation 🙂
focus on the apex then focus on the straight.
Just watch the road that you are heading to. Be aware of what is around you, but don't focus on it.
Men have great peripheral motion detection. I'm a pretty no0b rider, I ride MOST at night (I work at night mostly, and I'm not going to not ride).
I've almost had a deer hit me as it just flew through the air about 6 feet in front of me at about 45 miles per hour. Nothing I could've done about that, but every other deer (I've rolled up on over a dozen) I've noticed ahead of time.
I pull off the throttle, load the front brake and make my decision.
Most of the time they are already booking into the woods. Sometimes I need to honk my horn or rev a few times to get them to stop staring at the light.
I second the wearing your gear, almost a week ago. I had an accident on my bike and my gear saved me, the only thing I wasn’t wearing was my boots, and my foot got a little messed up, but it is healing rather quickly thank God.
Praise the LORD
glad your ok, bet youll be wearing them boots next time out 😊
@@cabbage681 Absolutely, I'll probably be fully healed in a few weeks here.
ATGAT!
As someone healing from an accident caused by target fixation, I found your thorough explanation of it to be very helpful.
As a learner I was taught to look as far ahead down the road as possible, and to rely on peripheral vision to pick up vehicle movements between me and that spot at the end of my vision. So far, 37 years later, it's worked. Give it a go. Get well soon.
when I get to the point when I get target fixated (we literally all do it) I have a 'fuck it' moment and lean or ride over what I think are my limits to get around the issue. You have to think, if I'm gonna crash, I may as well try to do something I don't think I can, if you know what I mean?
What were you fixated on ?
@@nunninkav I had just finished the first turn in an S turn. I exited the first half of the S turn too close to the apex of the turn of the second half. Instead of hitting the brakes or leaning into the turn anyway, I just had a brain fart, stared at the road directly in front of me and went off the road. I'm going to consider myself a newbie. I've had 8 weeks so far to ruminate on this turn.
@@CJSOCMD
Total control of your bike's direction is simpler than it seems.
Many riders overlook it.
Handlebars steer the bike; lean and look only help.
Master steering for total control.
"Riding the clutch" is a huge no-no in cars. On bikes it is required at low speeds. This mindset change has been one of the biggest hurdles for me thus far.
Unless you own a Ford Ranger with four cylinder and there's a stop sign at the top of the hill😂😂
Manual cars have dry clutches, most bikes have wet clutches that don't wear as quickly from slippage.
& THE CLUTCH ** FRICTION ZONE .
Agreed. That was quite a revelation to me when i was learning.
I gotta be honest. I never wrote the clutch on my motorci. Learned how to drive on a stick car. And I just transitioned over to a motorcycle with it. No collection parking lots. What I would do is control the throttle and the brake. Yeah, it made the engine lock a little bit but I wasn't trying to rev out from a lug.
Wish me luck folks, Tomorrow and friday i take my MSF. THIS IS IT!
Good luck!!
How did it go?
How did you do?
Awesome! Good luck finding a great deal on your first bike, too 👍
Perfect score folks! Its bike hunting time!
I've been riding over 45 years including some road racing track time in the 80's and have way too many stories to tell here. I've never ridden a bike with any rider aids and have survived pretty well so far. I was T-Boned by a read light runner when I was 16 and no rider aid could prevent that. I work in Telecommunications doing translations and I agree aids can be helpful in making my job easier but, they also contribute to the dumbing down of a person when it comes to doing it manually. I know how to do my job w/out aids. I've probably had thousands of panic stops for people pulling out in front of me and never laid a bike down doing it. The best thing about being a motorcyclist all these years is that it also made me a better car/truck driver that pays attention to everything. My head is on a swivel no matter what I am am riding/driving. Ride safe everyone.
Yup.
well put
Been wanting to start bless you bud!
Same. Been riding vintage 2-strokes for 14 years. I don't even like my cars ABS it kicks in way too soon and it doesn't stop better than me.
@@PurpleMonkeyWaffle Sweet! I started on RD250 and then a race prepped RD350 with a head and tail light. The bike in my profile pic is my '76 RD400 that I will own until I die(hopefully not on it).
Last point is best point: ATGATT. Six months back, I was riding a brand new bike home from the dealership on a local highway (seriously, it was 30-miles old 😢). Prius made illegal left turn in front of me and I t-boned it at 50mph before getting “ejected” a few dozen feet down the road. Had my gear, had some luck, and didn’t lose any body parts in the process. Is a wreck LIKELY to happen anytime? Not really. CAN it happen anytime? Absolutely.
Target fixation was one of the most valuable lessons I learned. When you do it right it’s almost you zone out and only see the road waaaaayyyyy I front of you. Everything gets smoother cause you’re unknowingly pre planning everything you need to do before you get there.
As an MSF coach I really appreciate your videos. A lot of the points you bring up, I teach as well. A rule I use for gear is that 30% of your motorcycle budget should be for gear. I understand not everyone can attain that but for most people a motorcycle is an addition to travel not their only option.
30% is a lot of money. I was very gear focused and started with a used Ninja 300 and bought a Snell rated helmet and quality AA/Level 2 gear and it still only worked out to maybe 20% of my budget. If someone is buying a new bike, even a small one, 30% is something like $2.5 of gear.
You don’t need more than $2000 in gear. I’ve been riding with $1000 of gear since winter
Granted, $1000 is around 30% the cost of my CBR300
I ride out of necessity. Owning two motorcycles is still cheaper than one car or one truck. More people should consider it.
I agree👍my 919 FireBlade cost £2700, my gear cost £1075 👍
At 22, I bought my suzi Bandit 1.2L, and just having a healthy fear and respect towards the bike has done me well. No abs, and the throttle is just a cable that opens the butterfly valves.
It's simple, and I love it, but the new bikes look like a lot of fun as well.
No ABS is the best.
Carbed bikes are so much smoother and less jerky in throttle response. It annoy me how new bikes are so jerky around slow corners like roundabouts. I never had that issue with a carbed bike over the last almost 30 years riding
Great episode. I’m 70 now and just re-entered the motorcycle world a couple of weeks
Ultimately, gearing up properly and doing as much training as you can will never be a bad thing. I'm still less than a year into my riding experience but there's so much value in finding an empty car park, or roads with plenty of space and visibility and no cars in sight, and practicing maneuvering, braking, countersteering, trail braking, slipping the clutch, etc. The more skills you have, and the more confident you are in those skills, the better prepared you are for situations that demand the most from you.
I have had one incident with target fixation when I was riding a bicycle.
There is a solution if you really want to look at something you're trying to avoid(for whatever reason...).
You first turn your face to the exit and then if you want to look at the thing, just turn your eyeballs to look at the thing and not your face. Your eyeballs can move, use that motion.
I learnt about target fixation when we were kids, when we were riding bikes and my friend face planted himself on a wall after going downhill. We found it funny because it totally looked and was avoidable, especially since it's an area we're very familiar with. Always kept in mind to look for an escape in certain situations after that, and only later realised that we learned a pretty valuable lesson that day.
All the gear, all the time. Your skin will thank you for it.
Not letting my bike warm up. I swear if I am gonna dump it, it will be 300 yards from house on up hill stop. While my bike is not warm and being jerky. It seems that unwanted wheelie happens then. Were if I don't give it gas it will come backup. Need to trust it won't stall and longer warm up helps with trust and less jerky actions.
Steering on a two wheeled vehicle is applying force on the handlebars in the opposite direction that you want to turn, which will turn the handlebars into that direction. If you try to push the handlebars to the right, they will move to the left. When you're trying to make controlled adjustments to your turn, being aware of this might give you much better control, because otherwise you're just fighting with your intuition
Target fixation almost got me once but luckily I looked away n it saved me was entering a sharp corner at the same time a truck was coming I was coming in too Hard n noticed I was so worried about running into the other lane of the truck that I actually was driving into it I started focusing on the exit n that was how I slowed down in time and made my exit safely
Learned about counter steering while riding outside my limit. I was riding at night with experienced riders who were about a tenth of a mile ahead of me and I was trying to keep up. It was dark and I hit a sharp corner at about 25 miles per hour faster than I would have normally, my brain reacted, I threw the bike to the left (counter steered) hard. I figured worst case dump the bike, best case make the turn. I made it. And at the moment realized what counter steering was.
Good lesson, thanks for sharing.
We tend to think of countersteering as an aggressive or panic technique which it was and worked.
We counter steer in every turn 100% of the time, and most of that time it's so subtle we don't realise we're doing it.
I was walking my bike up a ramp to my truck bed. The throttle stuck at like less than 5%, and shot out of hands, up the bed, hit the wood I had piled at the front, and went soaring over the cab. No damage to the truck, and only a loose neutral light lens on the tac and the speedometer is wonky. (Both of which were prior issues anyway)
That being said, respect the power of the throttle, especially on a 50 year old dirt bike with a hi-low gear box.
Just rode my own motorcycle for the first time this evening. I've been watching your content since i took the MSF course 3 weeks ago. It was definitely nerve wracking but i remembered some of the points you've mentioned over and over again, and I felt a lot more confident than I wouldve without these.
Have fun and stay safe out there! Always assume the drivers around you will do the dumbest things possible and be prepared for that. I've been cut off and had people start coming into my lane countless times while on my bike.
I've target fixated once, and never made that mistake again. Was my 2nd or 3rd time riding, and coming out of a corner I focused on a brand new energy plant tower they built off in the distance. By the time I noticed I was heading off my line, I couldn't correct it and instead slowed enough, stayed straight and coasted to a stop without dropping the bike.
Of course I was aware of target fixation, but had no clue what it was actually like. Now I do 😅
Being reliant on rider aids is something I've been making sure does not occur.
For instance, my Kawasaki has a slipper clutch. So I can downshift and never worry about losing the back wheel (though it can definitely throw you over the front with the sudden deceleration). I made sure to practice proper downshifts/blips regardless, and now I never even notice the slipper controlling the slip on the rear tire.
Rider aids are redundant but extremely useful in the event you do make a mistake or panic in an emergency situation. They DEFINITELY come in handy. Certain ones even help you focus more on the ride and staying safe as compared to ensuring you do not make a mistake and overlook that car braking in front of you suddenly because you were focused on blipping correctly. Etc...
Practicing is great 👍🏼
But only perfect practice makes perfect 🤘🏼
I've had that target fixation a couple of times; it gets shorter now but my heart still goes into my throat.
I almost had a horrible accident a few years back. The car in front of me suddenly changed lanes and I saw the load of lumber in my path. There wasn't room to stop and I started to fixate on what I was about to hit. However I heard the voice of my instructor in my head yelling, Find the escape path and look at it. Thankfully the bike was light and very flickable. I managed to find and follow the path that avoided every board. After passing through that, I couldn't believe that I pulled it off.
If you’re going to follow a car, do it from greater distances and be offset in the lane.
i havent rode in like 10 or so years but, teaching rev matching when down shifting helps with braking as well. using the engine to help as the brake helps significantly, the reliance on the brakes is minimal especially coming off a highway/interstate.
Clutch coasting, have done it for years!
I recently moved to the mountains and discovered how excellent proper engine braking is, great video.
Thanks for the quick TJD slam. I've ridden for years, but i do pick up some tips from you. I also appreciate your well structured videos. Your funny and informative. Thanks.
Never stop saying to wear proper gear!! I see a lot of both experieced and new riders in shorts, tee and flic-flocs in summer.
It's better to feel hot than hurt ❤
Those of us who grew up riding two strokes learnt how to use gears clutch and throttle properly, essential for keeping it in the power band.
Exactly you're on the clutch non stop on a 125cc 2 stroke
I’ve been watching you since 2017 and finally got around to getting my license only this week. I love riding so much and want you to know how much you’ve inspired me to ride and the things you’ve taught in the videos have totally set me up for success.
...regarding target fixation crashes.... I strongly believe that the whole conception of "the bike will go where you look" is a faulty way of explaining and teaching steering on a motorcycle, done by many people. You don't steer with your eyes; you steer with your hands. So the bike will go were your hands tell it to go, not your eyes.
Best practice for me personally is to actively and consiusly steer with my hands - countersteer, all the time, and use my eyes to verify the results of my actions. I believe it is a good habit to have.
90% of "target fixation" incidents have zero to do with target fixation and are simply failures to apply enough steering input. It's the "had to lay her down" of the sport bike world.
If you look/ focus on something, you will absolutely end up there. You keep looking at that ditch, on your right side, and you're going into that ditch. Don't believe me, try it out 🤣. Look where you want to go, period ● 👍
@ARCNA442 strongly disagree mostly. If actively engaged and alert situationally I agree with you, but where I personally have encountered this issue, is, as a seasoned 71 year old with 59 years of trail, flattrack on 1/4 mile clay track, tt scrambles motocross and now a 2023 xsr 900. I am thankful for muscle memory reactive skills that, while I lazily at about 65 mph on blacktop rural residential rolling hills sweeping wide curve slightly downhill sloping to deep drainage no shoulder, mailboxes, driveways and culverts. A little wide and approaching quickly the edge of blacktop dropping 2 inches to dirt, mailboxes etc. Was past the point of lean over and still have tires on traction. My body reverted to .. keep it upright thread the needle thru and over driveways culverts, mailboxes, shrubs and a couple of driveway boulders and a landscape fence. Kept her upright 60 yards from my drop of attention point to my safe landing in a dirt ditch stopped on those track tires. What a wake up call. Just needed a fresh pair of underwear and a little assist from a couple of friendly landscapers who helped me power up out of said ditch to the safety of the road I left by distraction of 1 second that prompted my adrenaline ride.. be mindful and alert. .
@@kevinpirello7746 Thanks for sharing your experience and it's a great reminder that no matter how skilled you are, motorcycling needs to be taken seriously. Maybe I'm misinterpreting, but from the description of the incident it sounds more like being afraid to lean (because you were unprepared for the situation) rather than being target fixated on a hazard and unintentionally riding into it.
Thanks for reading my account of attention deficit, or horizon scanning for deer or is that a radar trap over yonder while the uneven ribbon of asphalt under me is no longer gonna be available to my tires as the needed left lean event was now on dirt with a loose topping of pea gravel. At 60 mph. So target fixation was not as accurate as.. at that event horizon, when countersteer, lean into it, trust your tires. Immediately changes to steer and point this projectile to stay upright, avoid large objects find a way, place to scrub off speed and stick the landing. But I have had, turn avoidance paralysis. Where on a dirt bike traveling down a heavily rutted road, I was fixated on the ruts and mentally locked up where I couldn't make myself turn out of them. I had to stop, shake my head. Reset my thoughts then continue. I think the term fixation used here covers an experience that we can all relate to as we remember a time we kind of panicked as we find ourselves too wide, too fast, with little options left. Be it fixated, over speed, tightening radius, or inattentive of changing surfaces. I appreciate the remembering and sharing the varied ways to get in trouble or go flying off the road. Reminds us all to stay alert and on the road if possible and have a plan B if the road becomes unavailable to your tires and you are instantly an off roader. Thanks.
pertaining to the gear portion of the video. YES! Always get proper safety rated gear, and ALWAYS WEAR IT! Story time: My Dad worked in Law Enforcement, he'd always use his bike to go down to Academy every time it was held. ALWAYS wore his gear, was coming home one day taking an exit behind a giant gravel truck, staying his distance away (further than the 200 feet recommendation), rock pops up from the truck, he tried to dodge it hits his back tire and my dad goes super man over the bike. No major injuries stated other than major bruises and road rash. 2nd Crash he got into: Wearing no gear at all just down the road from his house, going to a neighbors house for eggs (lives on a dirt road). Jackass comes flying down the dirt road, dad swerves hits a pot hole and he lands on his side. Dislocated his shoulder and broke his collar bone. He was only going 10 mph on the dirt road vs 60 mph behind that truck. GEAR SAVES LIVES!
This is perfect timing since I just got my first bike today and did my first town drive 2 hours ago. My biggest issue was using the clutch to much to coast and I need to learn to countersteer. Took the MSF course so a lot of the more basic stuff I got down
Congratulations brother
Welcome to the club. It's good that you're recognising your faults. That gives you something to practice. You will get better! My top tip: Watch out for internet experts!
Congratulations homie! Practice Practice Practice!!! Watch out for the "Other Drivers" a Whole Bunch of Idiots out there that will pull directly into your path constantly! Deer and dogs too! Be safe bro, Enjoy 💯
Don't ever think you've got the basics down, because you finished your MSF cource.
That was just the introduction to the book of motorcycling.
Now you may open it to chapter one.
Have fun learning to ride.
Congrats, that said keep practicing the basics you do not have them down and never will. I've been riding since I was 11 (I'm 33 now) I still regularly practice and occasionally fuck up the most basic things you can do on a motorcycle. Never stop practicing it will keep you healthy
In the riders safety course they teach to pull in the clutch and apply breaks to come to a stop.
Yes. That's honestly why I clicked the video, because I've been braking that way for 2 years.
I remember during my rider safety course we were told not to cover the front brake and would get points off if we did. As soon as the course ended, the teacher said “remember how we said not to cover the front break? yeah forget that.”
yes you sould keep doing that since this is the right thing to do for emergency and since your rpm is low its also eazy to turn if you can't come to a stop , also if you break hard before a turn this also help cuz you are less chance to trigger ABS since the back weel dont get push by the motor
As long as your RPMs aren't low enough to make the bike jitter or stall, just hover the clutch while using the engine braking, and only pull in the clutch when you are in low enough RPMs and then you can use the brakes more
When you pull in the clutch you essentially take power away from the drive wheel. Where only rear brake is needed. I will coast to stops coming downhills. You don't need added power. I can stop plenty short of my stop, and don't really need to apply front brake.
If you need to stop in the shortest distance possible, not pulling in the clutch is cause your stopping distance to increase. If you don't pull in the clutch during an emergency stop, your brakes are fighting against the residual energy the engine is applying to the rear wheel and once you lower your speed to a certain point the engine will stall and then very bad things can and usually do happen.
But hey, clicks.
stalling the bike is usually not the biggest concern when trying to make an 'emergency' stop. primary concern is usually not dying by getting plastered all over the side or back of a truck.
@@WaffleShortage RIght after that stop in the shortest distance possible, as you sit there with a stalled engine and can't get out of the way on another vehicle coming at you, you'll wonder why you didn't pull in the clutch when stopping since it takes no more time and gives you options you don't have with a stalled engine. A motorcycle with a non-running engine is one of the worst possible positions to be in while on the public roads. A running engine is one of the most important safety items a motorcyclist has because not being able to get out of the way of another vehicle is right up there with the deer in the headlights look at you made the stop and then can't even move out of the way of other vehicles.
Sorry, the biggest concern is not just the stop but what you do right after the stop because many riders make the stop only to be plowed from behind by car drivers.
WHen you make your "panic" stop you had better be looking in your rearview mirrors to make sure the vehicles behind you are also stopping. WIth a stalled engine what will you do if the car behind you doesn't stop, pull in the clutch, hit the starter botton and hope you are fast enough to get out of the way? Hope is not a plan.
It takes far longer to pull in the clutch, hit the starter button and then hope you're in a gear that the engine can move you out of the way that pulling in the clutch as you stop, shifting your transmission into a gear that lets you power out of harms way if needed that just grabbing a handful and praying.
Explain how I'm not correct.
And just to add, if you can't manage to operate the clutch (left hand) and the front brake (right hand) and rear brake (right foot) at the same time you've never learned how to ride a motorcycle properly and before you get on a public road, take a safety course. This whole don't pull in the clutch during a panic or short stop is rediculous. Who makes up this stuff?
I only passed last year in the UK (at the age of 40) and one of the best things I learned was coasting and then slowly re-engaging the clutch for slow speed cornering. Controlling the power delivery will improve your confidence and means you can ride more progressively., especially in slow traffic and urban areas. Plus the streets in the UK are narrow with mini-roundabouts!
I’m glued to these videos for exactly the same reason. Not that many long straights unless you’re on the M3 😂
im having to learn to ride a dual-sport in the middle of a horrible american metropolitan area where it's ALL just low speed stop-signs everywhere with tons of traffic searching for street parking and stuff... and then 6-lane highways dumping straight into that.
I just experienced what happens with bad habbits.(nit really a bad habit just don't have tone of experience riding.) But I used the front break mid turn because I took a sharp turn a little too fast and was going to go off road that led to a cliff side. And low sided and broke a rib lol. Practice is key to riding safe. Be careful out there people the road is unforgiving to all
When I first started riding, I had a fall at under 20mph while filtering. I had a jacket, helmet and gloves and my upper body was completely fine, but the trainers didn’t keep up all that well and I fractured my toe and banged up my ankle. That was a good enough warning to get proper boots and pants too.
Here in Europe, most of those bad habits have been mitigated by riding lessons with a licensed instructor.
Even mandatory minimum gear for the test.
America prefers to maim and keep its citizenry sick.
This is good advice , lots of experienced make these mistakes as well. It's important to learn how to ride correctly. Practice makes perfect too. Work on your braking , using the friction zone , etc. Find an empty parking lot and practice. In an emergency , you want your responses to be automatic. If you have to think about it, you'll take too long.
Rev bombing instead of using your horn is pretty damn stupid too.
Rev Bombing immediately takes you from looking cool to complete jackazz
my horn sounds like a clown trumpet, a rev bomb is way more loud and noticable
I don't do either, I just react.
Rev bomb under slow over passes instead.
@@IndependantMind168 lol.. oh lord.. not that move
To all new riders: the "look where you want to go" is mostly useful when doing u turns. If you don't understand how to use countersteering , no amount of looking will help turn the bike. Having good vision through your turn and seeing where you want to end up is essential for good lines. But once again, no amount of leaning or looking will turn your bike without the use if countersteering.
I disagree with 1 thing you said about clutch use. When I am coming to a stop, I pull the clutch in and shift slowly down to neutral, or 1st if the light turns green when I'm almost stopped, or stay in 2nd if the cars start moving before I come to a stop.
Getting my first liter bike soon the 2023 honda fireblade and damn have so many of your videos gotten me to this point started out proably like most and can now ride no handed and do a donut with multiple 600cc suzukis you do a better job explaining shit then most and the skill its given me is GODLY.
Nothing like catching the video right as i sit down to poop
Bet you spent 2 hours on the toilet before even starting to poop then an extra hour to start pooping😂
😂I found this right as I was getting up from the John… sat right back down. Now I’m stuck here 🤦♂️
*sing-songs* Too much information! 😄
👀
Good Lord, that thumbnail. I’ve seen neon yellow gears before, but that reaches another level.
It's so weird to watch this video as a european rider. Like i thougth maybe i can learn something as a new rider (4 months) but it's all basic stuff you need to know to even get your license.
Haha! It is yeah!😅
It’s weird that that you think it’s weird to watch this video 😂. You can get a learner permit without even getting on a bike in the states. Then you have to ride with someone licensed if you get on the road.
That is the same in the US. This is all in the riding course you take to get your license.
@getbusylivenordien5394 What did he say in this video that is wrong?
@getbusylivenordien5394 what comment? There’s over 1k comments. Everything he said in the video is what’s taught by professionals. Everything is in the twist of the wrist videos too. Where are you getting your info?
I’ve been riding since I was a kid. Grew up racing motocross in Alabama until my early twenties. 35 now and have a TW200, Fat Bob with a 120, and my favorite bike GS R1250. Videos like this are great to keep me grounded. (No pun intended)
since i'm in europe i'm right now on a 50cc but still make the mistake of target fixation, i'm gonna try to break most of my bad habits so i can start good on a 125cc. appreciate the advice!
I rented a personal water craft recently and I swear it took me a solid 10+ minutes to figure out that they don't counter steer. Once it clicked in my brain, I still found myself instinctively wanting to push the left handlebar instead of pull. I was very pleased that there was minimal traffic on the lake!
I was putting too much of my weight on my hands starting out and it caused my right hand to get tired really fast. I was not able to smoothly roll on or off the throttle and it would cause the bike to lug or jump. Now I know to hold myself up with my legs and use just enough grip on the handle bars to stay in control.
On a road bike, leaning on the bars isn't good practice. Obviously, when you're braking hard or accelerating flat out, things change, but the more neutral that you are when turning, the better.
It's all in your Abdominal muscles. Hold your weight with your core and thighs. You'll definitely appreciate it if you hit a bad spot in the road and start a "Death Wobble"☠️💯 I've heard that you should hold your bars like you'd hold a child's hand. Firm but delicately. Ride safe
Many cruisers have the front and rear brake combo foot brake.
Also nothing is hurt from clutch in coasting if an issue arises you can also let the clutch back out to increase engine braking or to add power to the rear wheel
I agree with everything, except coasting with the clutch pulled in. That's definitely not a problem, and has it's uses.
Agree, I can’t see clutch coasting being an issue unless you don’t properly match the gear with your bike speed as you slow down. Worst case scenario you just let the clutch back out and you’re back to normal.
Yeah yammie loves to make clickbait these days
I've been riding since 1987 and I've never done that.
@@Tamaresque Riding what exactly? Dualsports that turn 6000rpm at 5mph in 1st?
@@Tamaresque are you expecting an award or…?
It didn’t take to long to get rid of target fixation since I almost went in to the side of an opposing car. After that I understood how truly important it is to focus on where to go. I almost crashed ones due to under loading the front in combination with low tire pressure.
Thank you for this video, but it conflicts with something I've heard from another motorcycle TH-cam channel. 5:00 "If your clutch is not fully engaged, ..." Meanwhile, from a MotoJitsu video, I heard squeezing the clutch lever completely was unnecessary and incorrect. Each of you have highly respectable content, but which is the best procedure?
The whole clutch section was ambiguous as hell. Says don't hold it in to stop. If he means while coasting to a stop sure, but at some point you have to pull it in. Also the clip of the rider making him sick doesn't even show the clutch hand it's so dark, all you can hear are just slow shifts and he doesn't explain why it made him sick lol
@@whiskbiscuit7199 Thank you for your input, now I don't feel TOTALLY stupid.
Thanks for the video! One big starting mistake I see many new riders committing is starting with a too powerful bike. The fetishes and eagerness to brag often lead to bad outcomes (many times fatal). Ridding without proper gear and mixing alcohol and bike as well.
In Australia Learners are limited to bikes with a low power to weight ratio. There's a whole list of them and they are advertised as LAMS bikes, where LAMS stands for Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme. As you can imagine, there is a high turnover in these bikes.
@@Tamaresque I like this model. Here in the US, we see elderly and young riders going for very heavy (Harleys) and/or very powerful (Sport/Naked) first bikes. The things you see happening on the streets, and stories from motorcycle dealerships and hospital workers, are not good.
this is why I'm glad in my country it's mandatory national practical exam for motorcycle license
Enjoyed your "First wet ride - Honda CB 125R" video and you were great.Deserved your third 👍. If you can survive lanesplitting as an apparent national pastime then the rain is nothing! Good job.
@@gregbradshaw8679 thanks, still make a lot of mistakes but riding in traffic teach a lot about throttle and clutch controll
I just started riding after the MSF class and watching just about everything on TH-cam for tips.
All good in theroy, but the only way you learn is commiting to it and doing it, but having the knowledge is going to help huge!
I stupidly bought a Nightser, I had it in rain mode for 2 days then went right into "standard" Throttle control is still easy, but I have respect for what the bike is capable of (90hp is no joke!) Getting a little spicy it has cought me off guard how quickly you can accelerate, lots of fun, but I respect that things can go south real quick.
Target fixation isn't a problem because if I catch myself eying an obstacle, I consciously tell my head to look where I WANT to go.
The tricky part is figuring out how fast to slow for a turn and just building up that muscle memory coming to a stop and putting a foot down.
In all, I'm glad Im on 2 wheels and looking forward to becoming a competent and safe rider.
Got my first motorcycles 5 or 6 months ago. I was taking my 125cc dirtbike down the street (I was going 40 which was 5mph over the speed limit) A lady was backing out of her driveway way to fucking fast and in the moment i purposely locked up my wheel and crashed because she would have hit me if i didn't. I also didnt have insurance on the thing because i had just gotten it and didnt take it on rode like ever but that day i decided to. so i crash and all i had on were jeans a hoodie and a helmet. suprisingly i didnt get cut up to bad and the hood on my hoodie was the only thing that ripped. Road rash sucked for a bit but im okay. The lady did NOT get out of her car to help she just drove away faster and ran the stop sign. Anyways my point is hes right about the wearing gear part i probably wouldnt have had a ear if i wasnt wearing the helmet and i would have for sure had a major concussion. So to anyone looking to get their first bike please at the very least if you cant afford much gear buy a good helmet and then wear 2 layers of hoodies/jackets and jeans. it will save you alot. Normal Riding gear is still better but at the very least wear those.
Glad you are ok! No skillset or gear or habit will keep you safe from all assholes everytime, I'm afraid. Ride safe!
Been riding 2 years. First even bike Honda Rebel 1100. Always in a hiking boot for mobility, good pair of jeans, a leather or jean jacket with a full face helmet always. Never had an accident, not a scratch on the bike, no safety course taken. If you’re a good driver and always consider safety and have a profound appreciation for your life and the things you own. The only danger is a stranger.
I’m not even gonna lie to you yammie I made the ultimate beginner decision…..
bought me a gen 1 Busa w 0 zero previous experience, just gotta say man when people say you need experience, YOU NEED EXPERIENCE, these things are not a joke however my coworkers find it comedic that I started on one, of course I’m being extra careful & cautious and yet it’s still mentally exhausting to keep tame.
Respect her or She will Definitely PUNISH YOU! Ride safe and enjoy. P.S. Resist the Urge to tempt your fate! She offers more HP/TQ than most anyone can tame realistically.
Stay safe
this is actually the best way i’ve heard counter steering explained. i’ll save this to send to some of my friends going into the msf course.
It isn't really because it works at any speed, which Yammie got wrong. 5mph or 50mph, doesn't matter. Watch MotoJitsu's videos, ask any Police motorcycle rider or take advanced courses, they will tell you the CORRECT information. Or heck, even try it for yourself. Cruise in 2nd or 3rd at idle and very lightly push the left handlebar (turning the bars right), you will lean left, then the bars will follow the direction of turn (left). - This is also what happens at higher speeds too, just less noticeable.
Please don't. He explained it incorrectly. Counter steering exists at any speed.
@@Gobbbbb Thank you. I was very disappointed when he explained it incorrectly. Really living up to the Yammie Noob name.
@@cadetwolf1234 He definitely is lol. People always say "at low speed I just turn the bars left to go left" - People think that when you're counter steering at high speeds, your handlebars and wheel never point in the direction of turn. They fail to realise that counter steering only initiates the lean, then the handlebars and wheel will always go in the direction you're going. It's just at low speeds you only need a super gentle push in the opposite direction to initiate the lean. Like yeah, the bars do go left while turning left, but only after a super gentle input to the right.
I always tell people to stick a camera on their helmet, go do a few turns in a parking lot at 5-10mph and upload it to TH-cam so I can prove them wrong, no one ever does lol.
I could go on all day about this topic, I've argued with so many people about it, they just can't believe they're doing something subconsciously. They only believe it at higher speeds because it requires more force which is more noticeable.
It's nice to know there's people out there who actually know what they're doing! :)
My mom told me always leave the seat up. it shows that it`s clean. so have always done as she taught me.
pretty sure she told you that so when your dad came home he didn't see the lid up from her boyfriend taking a pee , the normal deal for a man is always leave with it down lol
@@pl7868 thats your Normal. lol.
we all have a normal. and women bring us up to use manners. dads teach sports.
Another good one is do not engine brake without using your actual brakes. Drivers and riders behind you might not be able to tell you are slowing down if you are not using your brakes, as in your rear brake light will not be activated if you aren't using your front or rear brake
Good advice! I usually just very lightly hold my front brake to activate the switch, but don't apply any pressure unless I need to.
Are we not gonna talk about the girl on the back of the bike at 10:49 her eyes just go completely white😭
Big head turns have been the most helpful for me to get the bike where i want it to go. It feels unnatural at first, but once you trust that process it makes your life so much easier.
I'm totally still coasting with my clutch engaged to give my right Hand a quick break on longer Trips.
Ride no hands.
@@moosecapades1722 Doesn't work on lower speeds with my bike. The engine break is too strong.
Very good video Yammie. My shortfall was, I bought a low ankle motorcycle boots for $150. I got hit twice from behind. First while sitting at a red light and the 2nd time I was pulling over on the highway to help another motorcyclist and had slowed down to about 15 mph. Both times my bike (2023 honda cbr 650r - about 450 lbs) fell on my foot. The last time it fractured my right fibula. I immediately upgraded my boots to the Alpinestars SMX-6 v2 Vented Boots. Cost about $300 but it offers much much greater protection for street riding. I agree riding with the right gear is very important.
False information on cruiser riders 😅
My first bike is a Honda NTV 650, It's 30 years old, I'm 26.... no ABS, no anything!
just me and the bike, I'm riding for 1,5 years and I think this is the best I could do, still learning but it helped to understand and learn alot of stuff.
by the way, my next bike will be a Honda VFR 800, old but good.
Fellow Yams! When waiting at a stop sign or light, is it better for your clutch to sit in 1st with clutch pulled in, or just go to neutral until it’s time to go? Does it even matter? I do both, depending on how much time I have to wait. Neutral if I’m gonna be there for a min.
I always put it in neutral but, ready to jam in gear at any moment to take off if it looks like I might get hit. When you hold in the clutch you are actually slipping it and creating wear on it. When you let go of the clutch the plates get locked together by the springs. The only wear you get is when engaging or releasing the clutch or as the plates start wearing out. High performance clutches have stronger springs to help prevent slipping. Most motorcycle clutches are in oil to help reduce that wear but, you do see race bike setups with dry clutches that don't last as long.
I sit in first all the time. I like to keep on the rear brake while stopped, and between the two I'm ready to go immediately.
Leaving it in first means you only need to put your left foot down and are ready to go when the light turns green. Putting it into neutral gets awkward fast.
@@ARCNA442 I always put right foot down and hold front brake and left foot is on peg ready to shift bike into gear if need be. The question was is it better for the clutch to be held in while stopped and it is not. That is when the clutch is slipping and wearing the most. I've never had an issue taking off fast enough if I need to. 45 years of putting it in neutral never felt awkward to me.
@@RedBud315 The clutch isn't slipping and wearing when you're holding it in unless you aren't pulling the lever all the way or your clutch isn't adjusted properly. If it was actually slipping then the bike would start moving if you let go of the brake.
I just passed my MSF course and target fixation and not fully turning my head was an issue I had to work on. Thanks for the video.
Time to get a turbo busa and ride it like a squid
I randomly found your channel, thanks for tips. I just got my first bike, a Kawasaki Z650. My dad who is a Harley rider mostly took me out to a big parking lot today and showed me what do to. I stalled a solid 6 or 7 times. But got up to 3rd gear. It was scary for me because it was at night and none of my gear has come in yet but my dad flies off Maui this Saturday and we didn't have much time for me to learn from him. I'll be riding it around my neighborhood until I finally get comfortable
New rider here, been out about a dozen times and getting more comfortable each time out. I no longer have anxiety, but one of things I do is pull the clutch in and coast. I do that often riding in city streets. Now that I’m aware, I’ll be mindful of that and correct it.
The biggest problem for me was looking at the ground in front of me, worrying what’s on the ground, rather than looking where I’m going. You’ll end up in a bush. Look ahead, ie where you’re going, not what’s on the ground. Your bike will go in that direction. You’ll intuitively see the immediate ground whether looking ahead or not.
I have to admit, I just got my motorcycle license at 25 (on monday), in the driving school the instructor said to never use the front brake and was all like (you're gonna frontflip and front wheelie whatever), I got myself an mt07(same bike I got in the driving school) before I even got a license because I waited for a month to get to the passing the drivers test part and I quickly learned that front brake braking is nothing to be scared of, its way more effective and makes it feel more like car braking and its stable
I do have to admit I did watch a great deal of youtube videos during nights thinking if I should start riding and I tried most of the things I've seen, countersteering is the only thing I still don't have full experience with, I did do my first 'great' tour on tuesday (yes a day after getting the drivers license) and obv with lack of experience I didn't have the guts to try and do it on the highway going above 140kmh (we have curvy highways in Croatia)
You might of misunderstood the driving instructor about not using the front brake, he could of been referring to to low speed maneuvering in car parks etc. the use of the front brake being used while maneuvering can cause the front wheel to skid, especially on gravel surfaces, whereas using the rear brake in this instance will help with a controlled tight turn. The narrator was talking about counter steering, this is something that is quite advanced for a beginner and I would concentrate on your approach speed into the corner and road position to help with taking the corner smoother. The counter steering is more use for motor cycle racing and riders who ride faster on the road. I wish you many years of successful riding.
Riding for 26 years and still need these videos
Good video! To add on to the point about countersteering, everyone says "lean left, push left, go left." I want to add that at higher speeds, simply pushing in the direction you want to go isn't enough. It's good to practice pulling for the opposite direction you want to go too. So "lean left, push left, pull right."
This probably won't be used much until you're riding at 50mph+ and will NEED to be used at 80+.
I personally still have issues with #4. Thankfully yall teach how to utilize target fixation to ones advantage and leave that hazardous situation
Tip 1 I'm already familiar with. Before I ever bought a motorcycle I did a Basic Rider Course. Said basic rider course went over the usage of Brakes and encouraged us to use all brakes at once. On a private lot most of use even experienced locking up our brakes and were taught how to mitigate that. This to a degree helped out when recently I went through a Decisive Driver's program where we drove both cars and semi trucks with and without ABS. Some of the instructors were impressed thinking that maybe I was somebody that learned to drive without ABS. Where this ties together is that Cruiser riders tend to be much older. They tend to have less trust in "newer" ways. Now I'm not saying that's always a bad thing but in our Decisive Driver's course one of the oldest students didn't like nor trust ABS and boy did he find out just how great they can be. In an emergency situation it can cut your stopping distance in Half if not better. They certainly aren't a be all do all but they can help a tone of people avoid hairy situations. Something else to add is that the majority of motorcycles don't have ABS. So in emergency situations you have to pump your brakes otherwise you'll lock them up. Also don't brake through a corner. If you have to brake bring the bike straight up and brake hard.
During our training we were taught that the average person can pump the brake 2 times per second. ABS can do it 15 times per second. ABS can also brake individual wheels while a person is all or nothing. And just in case you've forgotten ABS stands for Anti-Lock Braking and Steering. If you're wheels lock up it doesn't matter how much you turn that wheel, you're going straight until you let go of that brake.
The one thing I'm still really bad with is my clutch. Doesn't matter if its a Motorcycle or a giant semi-truck I struggle with that clutch. Well at least with keeping things smooth. Good enough to where I've passed all of my test and have a class ABCDM license. Plus if you don't take you commercial drivers test in a manual you'll have an Automatic Restriction on your license making it illegal for you to drive a CMV with a manual.
After 42 years riding bikes, I can say that all the bad Habits are real. This video is not only for beginners, I know a lot of old bikers which still have them. Regards from Germany.
Took my MSF course last week, passed,went to the highway trooper an took the written motorcycle test, passed that then went to the DMV an had the endorsement put on my DL. Now just waiting to buy bike 💪
Using rear break together with front brake quick controlled stops and using rear brake solo with clutch for low speed manoeuvring and cornering is taught in riding lessons where I live. Helped me out a ton. Dragging rear break for low speed u-turns or hairpin corners etc makes a huge, huge difference in stability for me.
5:53 so true. Even with doing 10 - 15 k km per year, sometimes I find myself doing exactly this thing wrong and then it's a struggle to get out of the situation again. Don't get distracted by the oncoming traffic! Look you line!
Just wrapped up my 1st year of riding. I did 11k miles between my Ducati Streetfighter V4SP2 and Fireblade. I'm not guilty of any of these other than the ABS...its only happened twice but I could feel the rear ABS saving my bacon when emergency stopping.
Well, you've demonstrated such wisdom in your choice of "year 1" starter bikes, I'm sure you'll be fine.
@@gregbradshaw8679They are actually my 2nd and 3rd bikes for my 1st year. My left leg is mostly paralyzed so I bought and Africa Twin Adventure Sports just to see if I could ride and handle a bike. Couple months of riding daily I bought the other two bikes. I'm very far from a novice but even further from a expert level. I ride routinely with A group riders on the street just to practice techniques like trail braking, body position, line selection, etc. I'll often have one of the expert riders follow and film to and we'll watch and critique the video after and work on corrections/advancement on our next outing. I also commute on the Africa Twin every chance I get, just for more seat time in weird traffic patterns.
Not everyone who starts on a liter bike is an idiot squid. I'm 40 years old and have built and raced cars that would absolutely obliterate either of my super bikes in the 1/4 mile.
I have an 26 years old BMW R850RT with independent brakes, and I use them both to stop the machine. On the other hand, my 2020 R1250RT has a brake distributor, when you apply the front brake the thing uses the rear brake automatically. You still can use the rear brake alone when necessary stepping on the pedal.
I down shift to stop, I use compression braking. Meanwhile using the front brake. Never keep the clutch engaged while coasting to a stop. It's a great way to prematurely wear out the clutch. When i shift, I don't fully engage the clutch. I keep slight pressure on the shift peg, and pull the clutch until the bike synchros mesh. It will literally fall into gear, usually with only pulling the clutch in about a 1/2"-3/4"in. I also shift without the clutch, synchros, the gears will find their mesh point. I often trail brake with my Rocket. It's a big heavy bike, and sometimes trail braking is necessary to navigate the turn at high speeds. I've been doing it that way for over 55yrs.😎
I've never locked up the rear wheel, unless I'm trying to.😅
Stay Safe Ya'll!!!
Personally after watching Robert Simmons, I trade off the front brake with the rear coming to a stop. This is great once practiced, especially on a cruiser or a heavy tourer. One should always stop with the feet on the pegs, balance, and the left should be one that comes off, as the right should be on the rear brake.
At slow speeds, under 20mph, yes, use the rear brake
@@Nigriffless than that for me, 10 mph or parking lot maneuvering speed.
As a beginner I think i overuse the rear brake in commuting enviorment and use the front just for the final actual stop at the lights.
I also have my clutch pulled often to kinda avoid both engine brake and the use actual brakes when needed.
i don` t know if that`s right or wrong but it makes the ride much smoother...especially with a passenger.
Cheres.
Target fixation: I commented about it in may people's crash videos. There are always a bunch of squids that come and tell me "there is no such thing as target fixation, this is a word made up by people who just suck at riding". Thank you for talking about it in this video. Target fixation is a KILLER. I used to have it, not afraid to admit it. I would be looking really close in front of me, and have a tendency to look at the outside of the curve, where I didn't want to go, and inevitably, thats where I went. I never crashed, but I had a few close calls. Since I learnt to look far into the curves, and especially look where I want to go, not where I don't want to go, I have improved my cornering skills tenfolds... I used to have 2 inch wide chicken strips, now they're a half inch, and I am not afraid to loose the bike in curves anymore. ALL just from where I put my eyes in a curve.
The day I was picking up my first bike my buddy started drilling into my head a few key things. 1 target fixations. First day of riding I forgot as I went into a long turn. I wasn’t turning just headed straight for a barbed wire fence. I said to myself “this turn really isn’t going well” and I was braking hard then close to the fence I remembered target fixation. Thankfully no cars were coming in the oncoming lane. My buddy was riding behind me damn near in tear thinking he got me killed day one lol. But yeah got lucky and learned that lesson without actually crashing
I've been riding my 765rs for two years with all the rider aids and goodies.. finally got my dream bike (MV Agusta F4) with no rider aids and it's surprising how quick skills like rev-matching deteriorate when you're used to a quickshifter/slipper clutch!