I find it difficult, at age 77, with my riding passengers “Sy Attica” and “Sten Osis”, to swing my leg over my 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400, so I’ve been a fan of using my mount’s “stirrup” to get on board. I am, however, afraid to dismount in like manner, so my right foot usually hits the pillion, at which time I vocalize the expression “Dammit!”, just for the Halibut, of course.
@@usernamemykel (10 yrs your jr.) I couldn't swing my leg over the seat of my CRF250L dual sport, so I've been doing stretching and now I'm getting there. The first week I had this bike, I tried the left peg mount & the bike immediately fell over & pinned me under it. After watching this, I see my upper body was not positioned far enough over the keep the CG on the sidestand. Will try this again. At home I can step on a piece of 2x4 in the driveway, but I'm not going to carry it around with me.
I like this guy for his honesty and directness. He also does not redo clips in which he has not perfectly performed a procedure he meant to demonstrate. (Very realistic how he breathes heavily sometimes after dismounting for example.) He does not make useless words but gets straight to the interesting points and gives only reasonable advice. Opposite of Moto Jitsu.
As a shorter rider with a taller bike, I truly appreciate this video. My driveway is very steep and I work in the Hill Country, so I'm challenged by several obstacles daily.
I am74 and still riding frequently, almost everyday as I use my bike for transportation whenever possible. I have also had a problem with pain in my right hip for years. No doctor has been able to diagnose what was causing the pain. After switching to the cowboy mount for the last month - guess what? No hip pain! Can't thank you enough.
@@galexi2000 You now have an incentive to stay in shape! I use my motorcycle for daily transportation whenever possible. The more you ride, the better it gets. Good luck and stay safe.
@@joe2479 wow, I love that, an incentive to stay in shape, as the more you ride the better it gets, which is also an incentive. I'm in it for the long run, that's Joe, you an inspiration. 😅
I find knowing how to ride motorcycles very paradoxical - as long as you've ridden a bicycle before and a car in traffic before, riding a motorcycle can be learned in an hour. But as you said, decades can go by and even a smart rider can still discover new dos-and-don'ts.
A really excellent training video. As someone who is 76 years old and having ridden for over 50 years I really appreciate this method of mounting and dismounting. For years I mounted and dismounted with my foot on the ground, but as one gets older that is harder, and especially on a taller bike. So about 3 years ago, I started using the "cowboy" method of mounting, and I am glad to see someone advocating it... Thanks
Yep All us older dudes learning stuff we should've known 50 years ago... Ir maybe we did know but have just forgotten! Thanks for posting this. Very useful!!
I've been using the "cowboy mount and dismount" for about 5 years. The most other drivers I've met since using it have laughed, because they say it looks funny. But that's the only easy way for me to get on and off of my bike, so I don't care what other riders say.
One more tip. You can turn your bike around using the side stand. Simply face the bike next to the side stand and pull the weight of the bike towards you until you have it balanced with both wheels just off the ground. You can then easily move the back end around until you are pointing in the direction you want to face. Tip 2. If you park your bike regularly in the garage and dont want to or cant back in, use two round metal drink trays placed on top of each other with a dollop of grease inbetween them. Put the trays under your centre stand and use as a turntable ....👍
@@Voltomess Well, early days small two smokes 50cc yam fizzers and suzy ap50, then on to big single yam 500 /600s . Had a spell building low riders with zx engines. Finished up with Beemers and KTM's. Never had a centre stand or side stand break on me.
@@magneto263 It can cause problems to the killswitch sensor on the newer kickstands and many other issues. I was thinking of doing it but i realized that it's just not worth it
When you said cowboy mount the first thing I envisioned was you running up behind the motorcycle and leap frogging onto the motorcycle . Great video 👊✊️👊✊️
Thanks for this video. I just did my motorcycle safetly course yesterday and definitely felt like i was still missing a lot of basic bike skills... this is exactly what I needed.
The basic rider course isn't even a skeleton of the knowledge you need to be a truly safe, skilled rider - it's just a few loose bones. You have to keep learning...and learning...and learning to build up a full body of knowledge and "feel" for everything. The knowledge alone isn't enough, no matter how much of it you've piled up in your brain - you have to *experience* the knowledge on the road. One of my favorite principles is that *close calls are gold* - they drive your knowledge deeper into your instincts like a hammer driving a nail into a board. The knowledge alone is just a box of nails. Another principle I swear by is that *there's ultimately only one person on the road that has the power to put me in a danger or keep me safe - myself.*
Brilliant. I have been riding motorcycles for nearly 60 years and have got on and off my motorcycles making all the mistakes you highlighted in this video. I am not as flexible as I used to be and will now practise the methods you have just suggested. Many thanks for making riding easier. Best wishes, Martin
Excellent tips! I would add this: turning the front wheel left or right, when on the kickstand, changes the leaning angle of the motorcycle, use it to do small angle adjustments...
After 55 years of road biking I'm still willing to listen and if necessary change. This is an excellent video which becomes more important as one enters old age and one's body stiffens. At 71 years of age mounting using the footrest can become essential when acrobatics can no longer be easily deployed. If you don't then expect your boot to eventually cut your saddle cover. But there is a wider issue to consider. Unless you lack sense (like I do - riding a heavy Valkyrie Interstate) maybe change to a bike weighing much less particularly if you bike in difficult weather and on difficult roads like the U.K. where I am based. If you ride in fine weather on endless straight roads (like most of the U.S.A.) then biking is immensely less challenging. If you are a bright individual, and become fearful when you are about to ride then that is the clue that something nededs to change. Ivan (also from Devon, England)
Who cares with 250 lb dirt bikes, but now that we are migrating to adventure bikes, a tutorial on these fundamentals is much appreciated. Old dogs learning the basics of bike handling, great topic and super clear demonstration. loved the balance dance around the GS, .. a little scary and the most exciting moto video I have ever seen with the motor not running !
My friend just sold his 250cc Honda CRF because it was too tall and he kept falling. I'm sniffing around for a fun mini bike or something as I'm finding my own KLX250 a bit tall and top heavy too. Both of us have dodgy knees. I'll try the cowboy thing, might even keep my bike (but I do still want to find another little KLX140 like I had before. Could go anywhere with that thing, as it was so low and easy to ride)
I think a good point to mention is, if you're maneuvering reverse downhill with your bike, you actually do not need your front brake to control the bike's speed. Shut down the engine, leave the bike in first gear and use the friction zone of the clutch to maneuver/brake your bike. I use it everyday because I have a downhill facing parking spot in a garage for my bike and this trick is so much more comfortable because i do not have to reach over for the front brake lever so I can grab the clutch with the left hand and support the bike by grabbing the luggage handle with my right hand.
Good video, I have 50yrs riding in the UK, but it does us all good to go back to basics once in a while. We do not have many cowboys here, so it was taught to me as the cavalry mount. Ride safe.
Never parking your bike in neutral was something I just did because it made sense to me. But it is good that you mentioned it because I've seen many people not doing that. Also, while practicing balancing your bike while you walk around it, why not have the kickstand down? It wouldn't be in the way and a little insurance against a left tip would be beneficial.
There are comments below that you might put undue stress on the sidestand or its mount using the cowboy mount. That is correct. Over time you could break the stand or bend the mount, on certain bikes, if you are a heavier rider. Use common sense on that. Also, yes, you can't do that method on cruiser bikes with forward controls. The video is not showing every way possible to mount, just giving some tips you may not have thought of before. Thanks for the feedback - ride safe
When I do the cowboy mount, I usually do it from the right side to relieve some of the weight on the side stand instead of adding to it. It's also easier to place the right foot because the tank is leaning away from you instead of being in the way. The only time I avoid the right side if I'm on some uneven ground that has the bike leaned over less than it would be normally.
I am in the process of acquiring a Kawasaki Concours 14 it'll be the largest bike I've owned with the top box I find it difficult to get on and off I will try the cowboy method looks like it'll make life easier. I don't think I could have the nerve to move my 1400 CC bike around when it running and use the motor to move it just too much to go wrong luckily I have long legs and I can duck waddle the bike around. I'm actually going to have nightmares just thinking about trying to move that bike around my garage running or up my laneway scary stuff. Parking in gear is brilliant idea I don't know why I didn't think of that before. Overall a great video great information thank you.
You can get a feel and try shifting weight towards the center of the bike when doing the cowboy mount so there won’t be too much stress on the sidestand. Although this only applies to people who understand center of gravity (hint: center of gravity will not move down when you stand up on your bike).
I just started getting my wife to mount first, sliding into the riders seat then inching back, I was concerned about the sidestand but a friend pointed out he'd been doing similar 20+ years with no issues. Of course once the self loading luggage is in position it's way harder to cowboy mount without kicking her, not something I want to do.
As a somewhat new rider, I have been using this mounting method and it works really well. I dont care who is looking and what they think as my comfort, ease and safety is way more important than their opinion. Just recently bought the Tuareg 660 and that is one tall bike! At 5’7”, this is the only method that will work anyway. Thank you so much for this video.
My wife has got it into her head that she wants to take up motorcycling at the tender age of 53. I can hardly say no as I have been an avid rider purchasing many bikes over the last forty years. This is an excellent instructional video that I will add to my list of much watch videos for her in her journey to becoming a safe and proficient rider. It's all the little details and strategies that I've learned over the years that are often taken for granted by experienced riders and overlooked by newer riders that can make you a better motorcyclist . Thanks for posting this.
I had no intentions EVER at riding a motorbike, I was happy being a pillion passenger… but at 54 I decided I didn’t like being a pillion behind my husband anymore and needed my own handlebars (it’s all about your own control - not that I didn’t trust my husband anymore lol!). Four years of learning, riding, watching tutorials and taking onboard other riders suggestions and I’m enjoying myself. We just had our first ‘long’ ride - three days, beautiful weather, along with patchy rain and plenty of bugs lol! Now I’m ready to get out and start doing our ‘retirement dream’ of long distance riding and seeing more of our beautiful Australia :)
@@jenniemuller8866 Me too Sister, I was going to start with Tassie this Summer, but it's a washout. So maybe I should spend Summer at home in the Blue Mountains, in case of fires, then head North to Bananaland.
The Center Stand tutorial is super helpful, I have driven motorcycles all of my life and never realized what you just showed us on how to use the Center Stand. I really appreciate your attention to detail!
Hey Big Rock, I'm a guitarist and have been for a loooong time, 39 years, it's what I love the most. I started riding back in 92 but about 4 years ago I stopped, now I got a new bike and I love it and I spend more time on it than on the guitar ...but your vids and a few more others have been priceless because despite having ridden for over 20 years now I feel like a noob after not even touching a bike for the last four, thanks for the vid. take care. Mike.
Great video! I will now always leave my bike in gear when parking. It just makes so much sense and I'm feeling a little embarrassed that I never considered this before. Thanks so much for sharing this. I am now subscribed and the notification bell has been "rung".
If you STRUGGLE GETTING YOUR BIKE ON THE MAIN STAND ... I have a ST1300 and in my regular slot in the garage, using a piece of wood (about 1-1.5" thick x 2ft in length x 6-8" wide) under my rear wheel - ride/push the bike onto it and you can reduce the overall height the centre stand/bike needs to travel and I can do this in a pair of moccasins even using the Big Rock method of standing on the lever! Great tips BRM, every day is a learning day!
GREAT STUFF! I've been mounting and dismounting that way for a while now. Can't remember where I learned it, but it sure does make it easy and makes you look like a pro (also because i'm vertically challenged). I suffer from a herniated disk which was caused by believe it or not: dismounting without using the footpeg. The bike was tall and I forced to land my left foot on the ground. I couldn't get my right leg over and the bike started to tip over. I tried hard to prevent the bike from hitting the ground (to avoid getting embarassed around friends). The weight was too much and I heard a silent crack! I never thought the pain I felt for a couple of years after that was caused by this. Eventually, I went to a doctor and was told that I had a herniated disk. I also learned to park uphill with the front facing upwards and it makes me feel more confident to leave the bike. Gotta learn the COG and walk around it with the side stand up (without dropping it). Thanks for your very informative videos!
All I can say is Keep doing it this way. Certain income for me. As a Mastertech at BMW, I replace side stands and sometimes frames from heavy people bearing the weight of the bike, their bags and themselves on a skinney little piece of tubing with a narrow pad. 😅
Excellent info for an old man. I I'm tall and ridden dirt bikes all my life so never needed this stuff. Now I'm mature, lol, and have a litre sprint gt. Even an old dog can learn new tricks!
My right hip kills me when I try to lift it over the seat. Made me scared I could never get a taller bike. Thanks for the video. I pretty confident I my hip will no longer be my problem :)
Amazing. I rode motorcycles for decades without these mounting or dismounting methods. They look a little goofy to me. Some of his parking advice is also ill-advised if the handlebars/front wheel is turned sharply to the side into the locked position. Of course, the very best way to avoid trouble is to avoid trouble - find a safe place to park, don't move the bike unless safely onboard, and so on.
Same here Robin as imo that is the worst way to mount or dismount a bike because if the side stand bolt snaps (has happened to me) the bike is going to fall onto you and you dont stand a chance so simply stopped watching at that point to be honest as l can't take someone seriously who advises imo such a dangerous method to get on or off a bike
As someone who came back to biking several months ago after many years away, I was very impressed with not only your video, but also that you have made the effort to address these basic techniques. So thank you, but can I perhaps offer a few comments? #1 Parking on dirt and other soft surfaces. Don't forget that tarmac can soften in hot weather: it may seem ok when you park but a few hours later your bike can be on its side. I have fitted a foot extender to my side stand as you advise. In addition, I always carry a purpose-made flat circular plastic support for placing on soft ground underneath it if I am worried about the side stand sinking in. It's about 4 inches across and I keep in the top left pocket of my jacket, so if I can take it out and throw it onto the ground beside my side stand, without getting off my bike. I may have to move it with my left foot for the best position, but this is a lot better than dismounting to search for a rock as you suggest. These are available from bike shops or online. Or you could carry a small piece of wood or other suitable material. #2 Moving the bike around using the motor. I think using the motor as you suggest is fine but also potentially dangerous, particularly for new riders and if you aren't yet totally familiar with your new bike. It's very easy to panic and let the clutch out, with disastrous results. I do detect a little showmanship here! I think that this technique should be avoided unless you have parked badly on an up slope and there is no other option. #3 Moving the bike around without the motor You haven't addressed this at all unfortunately. The best technique is to keep the bike in first gear, (motor off) then from the left side of the bike, grab the left handlebar with your left hand, and the rear grab handle with your right hand. Lift the bike off the side stand, then pull in the clutch and pull the bike forwards with the grab handle. Leave the side stand down. If the bike starts to run away from you, simply let the clutch out and pull the bike back down onto the side stand. The clutch can also be used to slow down or stop the bike if you're moving it backwards. #4 Taking the bike off the centre stand This is essentially the same technique as #3. Grab the left handlebar and grab handle, keep the bike in first gear and put the side stand down. Pull in the clutch and pull the bike forward with your right hand on the grab handle. If the bike wobbles or runs away from you as it comes off the centre stand, just let out the clutch and pull it down onto the side stand. You can also do this in reverse when putting the bike up onto the centre stand: if it doesn't go up, and tries to fall or run away from you, just let the clutch out and pull it back onto the side stand. Again, great video, I look forward to more from you! Maybe something on the usual topics: cornering, low speed turns etc. You do have a very fresh and practical approach.
Side stand down while taking it off the center stand offers the opportunity to crush your foot. Almost did it once. Now I sit on the bike to take it off the center stand
@@gunfzx I have to say I’ve never felt at risk of doing that. But we all have our own tricks for managing our bikes. So if sitting on it works for you, go for it!
No more struggling to get off the bike anymore. Have always put my foot on the ground and struggled to lift my other leg over the panniers. Great video. Thanks for sharing 👍.
Thanks for video...a couple of things I've learned: if parking on a side hill, do not park at 90 degrees (perpendicular) across the hill if at all possible. Parking on an angle (front at higher end of slope) reduces the difference in lean angle with bike on side stand (e.g. 45 degree angle is 50% less additional lean). It also makes it much easier to back bike out using gravity to compensate for the extra difficulty manoeuvering (increased distance to the ground for your right leg). Side hills again: If the ground is soft, having the sidestand side of bike towards top of slope to reduce rather than increase lean angle will greatly reduce tendency to sink. I also have a rule when shunting heavy bikes around using the motor, which is to only use the motor when straddling the bike with both feet on ground. It is far safer, e.g. should you feed in a bit too much clutch and bike lurches forward more than intended. Oh yes...and don't wear sandals (or footwear with soles that can snag undulations on ground such as unleveled paving) to manoeuvre your bike around!
In the UK, when we learn to ride (we have to have proper training over a decent amount of time, not like some US states) we’re taught never to do the mounts you do. We’re also taught to turn the front wheel against the kerb or away, depending on the direction of the slope. The problem with using the pegs to mount is, eventually the additional stress you put on the stand, will definitely cause it to snap with disastrous results. It might not happen within 10k miles, it may be less or more, depending on the weight and force exerted on the side stand. The other thing we’re taught, is not to put your left foot down when stationary. This should be on the rear brake, until such time as you want to dismount. At that point, you hold the front brake, which on a BMW is linked to the rear brake. Ultimately, it’s about how you feel comfortable. However, if you can’t get your feet down it means that bike is not suitable for you and you are endangering yourself and others personally, I tend to agree with our UK instructors and I’m guessing European instructors too…..that’s because BMW offer a wide range of seat and suspension lowering across all their models.
Thanks for the straight forward and instructive video. Cowboy mount/dismount seems entirely intuitive to me. I’m 5’4”, short inseam, and it’s the only method I’ve ever used to get on/off my small adventure bike, especially with luggage.
Although I did horseback riding for 20 years, it would never have occured to me to apply that mounting method to my motorcycle. What a fantastic idea (as now I am bit older, I struggle quite a bit getting my leg over my motorcycle seat). I only have to be careful with that center of gravity (a horse has to learn to balance this - hence you are recommende training to mount from both sides,). But I guess I can learn that bike mounting method, too.
Hi from Australia, I am 79 years old {and still riding} and have been since I was 12, I have always parked my bikes in this exactly the same way all these years Great video.
Thank you. I just got my bike today, will be doing my cbt in a week. After watching your video, I mounted and dismounted my bike a few times with the greatest of ease. So pleased. :)
I've seen lots of riders get on their bike, hit the starter, and fall over because the bike was in gear. I like always putting it in neutral. No drops in 52 years of riding yet.
Very good video and explanations having been riding 50+ years it was drummed into us NOT to mount bikes putting weight on the prop stands as older machines not only had flimsy stands but in some cases could twist on the frame. However being one of those who are short in the leg (had to lower my FZS1000 ) I will certainly try this technique.
I’m 65 yrs. old and 145 lbs…..I use all these methods at some point on my 800 lb. K1600 GTL! Rarely have to centerstand it, but surprisingly did it fairly easily last week. Some extra tips that help: 1) before beginning, change suspension setting to “2-up” riding, stiffens and slightly raises suspension…2) use a 1” or higher wood board under the rear tire, it raises bike for the centerstand to grip better…3) as you stand on centerstand, do a quick slight rock forward of bike and quickly use rearward rebound to help roll it backwards onto the stand. Works!
I've been riding for years and found this video a huge help. I have knee pain and struggle sometimes, I've accidently kicked a bike over and I'm always annoyed at scraping my dirty boot over the seat or kicking my luggage or topbox. I've used this method before but usually only when no-ones around as I felt I'd be ridiculed for it. Seeing and hearing you do it makes perfect sense and even safer. Thanks. 👍
Slow speed drills! Getting over obstacles like logs with an adventure bike. Tire change in the field. These would be nice how to-vids. Keep up the good work! Lovin it! 👍
Best class I ever took was Ride Like a Pro which is solely about slow riding and maneuvering. Seems like such a simple thing but everything begins and ends with slow maneuvering. So glad I took it.
Very helpful vid for a 69 years old guy, sometimes in trouble esp. with uphill or downhill parkings. Have to train also getting up from the right side (one time I parked too near to the gas pump, I got off, but no more on, this was slapstick pure and very ashaming for a biker seeing to get on again)! Training, training, training! Zhanx for this funtastic video! KR Henry
Thanks . I won’t tell you how long I’ve been riding but I’m 70 now and mounting dismounting has become a challenge . Tried this today and that’s my method from now on , looks cool too :-)
In my opinion, it's too dangerous to be moving the bike around in gear while you're walking next to it. Well, maybe not in general if you're careful and have some skill. But it's not something I will be doing. One thing I learnt last week was to push the bike with your body (while you're stood next to it, not sat on it), by leaning your hip/body against the fuel tank and pushing forwards with your legs. It provides a surprising amount of forwards momentum and is more than enough to get the bike rolling so you're not pushing with your hands - only steering. It may sound counter-intuitive but give it a go!
Good tips and if I can offer another: Never, ever hear yourself or tell someone to "grab the front brake". Make it a point to get that phrase out of your mind. Anytime you touch that right lever, do it intentionally and with awareness of the lever pressure Even when rolling your bike around the garage, get in the habit of applying the brake so smoothly that you can't even feel the suspension compress. Thanks for the good content.
You could practice the balancing by keeping the side stand down while you do it. It doesn't throw the CG off enough to make a difference and it will save your plastics if you don't have a crash cage. Having a metal plate to toss on the ground for the side stand is a big help too. I've had my bike put holes in asphalt parking lots before. There's nothing more scary than seeing your bike tip lower and lower in a parking lot.
I know a lot of people mount their bikes like climbing into a horse saddle and you do hear of the occasional woops moment. I think you need to refer to your owners manual a bit more. It's a no no according to most manufacturers and is highlighted as such in most owners manuals. It's up to you, be aware, you will have a fight on your hands if you think of claiming warranty. I've worked for two dealerships and the only time I've seen a broken side stand is on a Ducati where the casting was porous. The side stand is not the usual item to give, its the very small holding pin that tends to give, usually no larger than 1/8" or 3mm and if you're a 200lbs + person you may wish to consider that little pin is what is holding you and the bike while you climb on John Wayne style.
Thank you for the tips. Will certainly try practicing them. I'm kind of on the short side at almost 5'7" and getting on and of my Kawasaki KLE 500 is kind of a challenge sometimes.
You have us some really good tips on NOT tipping over for sure. I bought my '94 Electra Glide with an optional roll-off stand. That stand, mounted on the front underframe, was a handy way to park that 800lb bike vertically. However, you can imagine how stupid I felt, one day, on a road trip, when I returned from paying the bill inside the gas station, only to find my brand new, fully loaded, bike laying on it's side because I hadn't realized the roll-off stand feet were in a slight depression and that lazy bike had simply rolled off the stand and laid down to wait for me! After that, I always checked to make certain I was using my roll-off stand on a flat surface. Thanks for all the good information.
Great tips - thanks. You didn't show getting the GS off the centrestand. Especially difficult if you are pointing up even a slight slope. Tip from experience - don't have the sidestand down in preparation when taking the bike off the centrestand otherwise you may squash your toes when it drops down!
Thank you for showing things that looking back now could have saved a few drops. Been riding for over 50 years and learned much from your lessons. In addition, hot asphalt parking with loaded bike can give you a surprise coming out after a lunch break....
I thoroughly agree with the techniques taught in this video. I’ve been riding for just short of sixty years and had to learn these techniques through trial and error. Newer riders: Trust what you’ve been shown here. It is really excellent advice!
Useful video for all riders with large, high bikes. I am 72, 5ft7” and 11 stone (154lb) and in recent years have had a 1200GS, 2 Honda ST1300s and now a Triumph Tiger. The ST1300 was the lowest but massively heavy and planning ahead before parking up was essential. It was not possibsle to wheel it backwards up a hill. On all bikes I am in the habit of leaving the side stand down until just before I drive off to be safe. This sometimes causes fellow riders to shout out and warn me that the stand is down but I feel it gives extra protection in case of a slip. Another thing to consider with a heavy bike is pulling up at a T junction when the road is sloping down from right to left. If you put your left foot down for support the bike may go over so you always need to look at the gradient - or if there are potholes or drain holes where your foot is hoping to go! Pulling a heavy bike that is leaning over far to the left off its side stand can be hard especially on the heavy ST1300 and I found that pulling the left handlebar right over helps the bike tip up to vertical while you are sitting on the bike. In all a helpful video for all ages in these days of tall, heavy bikes! Thanks.
Excellent, excellent training video. Very well done. I’ve been riding almost 50 years and just bought a new dual sport. This has been really helpful. Thank you.
Hi to you ,writng to you from France, your tutorial is really usefull,learning or discovering other ways so that you don't tip the bike ,great comments,i'll definetely follow your different explanations ,town of Castres (81 tarn)🇺🇸👍🇨🇵yours ...👍🏍Patrick
Great vid! Lol, earned me a, “See, like that, at least SOMEONE has done this before and knows what they’re doing,” from the instructor at my safety course today, when he told us to park the bikes after the first exercise. With this vid fresh in my head, I opted to make a little loop to pull in and park beside the extra bikes with ease, while everyone else opted to dismount and push it in reverse up the little hill into the parking spot.
Big Rock Moto, now I am over 50 I do find the cowboy mount/dismount so much easier, quicker and energy saving than stretching my leg up on a high dual sport like my 690, especially with luggage on board. However, I do worry that one day the side stand could snap. I think the 690 side stand is quite strong for a relatively light bike but you never can be sure how many mounts/dismounts it might take! I do concentrate on trying to centre my weight (as you show here) as I do it to reduce leverage on the side stand as much as possible and to do it quickly. The only point I would make about manoeuvring bikes around for loading etc is that it safer to do it on the right side with the side stand down (as long as there isn't an engine cut out) so if you slip or have a problem you can let it rest back down on the stand.
I am 76 years old. I traded in my '74 Yamaha V-max, largely because I was having great difficulty swinging my leg over the seat. There were other reasons, like needing new tires and unavailability of parts, but I bought a new little Grom. I have 3 other Honda bikes as well. I will enjoy trying this mounting approach out. Us old gezzers have to learn to do a lot of things differently as we get older. Thanks for the tip
I just got done watching your video on parking your bike. I am a new owner of my first adventure bike, BMW F850GS. So that video was very helpful. It is totally different from what I usually ride a Harley Davidson softail. I have been watching a lot of your videos, and they are very helpful. I just wanted to thank you, and keep up the good work. Thanks
I have been riding a small 150cc bike with around 130kg for two years and I can pretty much park it fairly easy, in a couple of days I'm going to pick up my first "big bike" so this have been keeping me worried, so I have been trying to find videos like this one for a time now, yours is the best hands down! Thank you so much for all the detailed explanation. There is so many videos about "Riding Basics" but this kind of stuff, parking, mounting really is the first thing you should know, kinda obvious but it was hard to find good information about it.
I had gone for 35 years without riding a bike. Then one day I got the idea that I needed a bike. Previously my biggest bike was a 550 Suzuki.I bought a used 1000 Kawasaki. Glad it was used as there were a few issues with the bike being big and me being small. Never hurt the bike but she went over a few times. Once I parked facing downhill. Fortunately a good samaritan showed up and helped out. I learned a lot as I had no choice. This video would have helped me a lot. Now I have a 1400 Kawasaki. Planning ahead and "thinking about what you are doing" are critical factors to keep her scratch free. Thanks for the video.
Really informative, this is what I was searching for , it’s been 2 week with my new RE Intercepter 200+ kg dry weight and I have already dropped it once while parking on an uneven surface.
Thank you for doing this video. I’m 71, and had a right hip replacement 10 years ago, and fractured the same hip 2 years ago. I don’t have full range of motion or strength in that leg yet. It is physically impossible for me to mount my ‘03 VFR800 the way I was doing it the last 45 years. You have given me hope that I can use the ‘cowboy’ technique successfully.
Thank you for the content! Any tip for short GS rider when passengers mount? My wife mounted over the pegs and i almost lost it . I then put the kick stand down and then let her mount. I am new to the GS . Thankful for any tips.
GS is a handful in these situations like all the tall heavy ADV bikes. I'm far from expert but I think a friend or two alongside you while you practice your pillion mount/dismount and these other moves would allow for multiple practice moves without the unfortunate drop. Also practice getting the bike back upright after it does tip (at some point, it will).
Passengers are another short video. :) As you discovered, the sidestand helps. Make sure they always confirm that you are ready before they mount or dismount the bike. As noted in the video, teach them to center their torso over the bike, and hold on to your shoulder instead of the handlebar.
One of the things that are commonly are used to assist in hillside parking is the motorcycles adjustable suspension function. Using the adjustable suspension control on an adventure style bike to raise or lower the motorcycles suspension height can significantly aid in correcting the lean angle of the motorcycle when parking across a moderate hill.
I did that and the bike was in nuetral. I was pulling in a strap and pulled the bike forward and it fell over on the left side. The bike is a mint condition 1981 Goldwing and I scratched the left hand panier. Never ever will I park my bike on a downward slope ever again.
Thanks. Been riding for years and never thought about putting it in gear to park going downhill. Will always think of you when ever I do this from now on.
I envy your concrete driveway and parking apron. I have a gravel drive and parking area and it's a bastard when you've to hand-manoeuvre a BMW R1200 RT and you're 61 and 5ft 6.
Great content !! ..Only thing you might want to add is wind factor... You don't want to park with your kickstand uphill if you have wind blowing against the kickstand side !! 😅 ❤
I have got a BMW 1200 GSa 2010 years make. I sometimes do the "Cowboy mount" but I am a pretty heavy guy (about 110 kg´s) and I am always feeling that I might put to much strain on the side stand when I do that. IS the stand really strong enough to do this? I agree that it certainly makes life easier but I do worry about the stand.... By the way, I love your videos! Straight to the point, honest, no nonsense and very enjoyable. Thank you!
@@TheFlemmo123 That's interesting! In that case, it certainly should be strong enough f. the "Cowboy mount". Then again, I have heard about people who have managed to break their stands... I am not certain about what they exactly did though.
Thank you! I’ve had a bike for 54 years and as I’ve got older struggled more and more getting on and off. The techniques shown are simple, straightforward and safe.
Outstanding video. June 23 marks my 50 years riding but I learned buckets of good stuff from this video. Especially the cowboy mount. On the subject of soft ground, (almost) every jacket I wear on the bike has a 4" can top in the pocket. The type that has to be removed with a safety can opener so it has a rim and no sharp edges. Never without one. Thanks for the excellent video.
WHEN I MADE THIS VIDEO I WAS NOT CONSIDERING SPORTS BIKES OR CRUISERS. SORRY.
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So, when can we expect that video??
Your vids are great!!
I find it difficult, at age 77, with my riding passengers “Sy Attica” and “Sten Osis”, to swing my leg over my 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400, so I’ve been a fan of using my mount’s “stirrup” to get on board. I am, however, afraid to dismount in like manner, so my right foot usually hits the pillion, at which time I vocalize the expression “Dammit!”, just for the Halibut, of course.
does this not work on sports bikes or cruisers?
@@usernamemykel (10 yrs your jr.)
I couldn't swing my leg over the seat of my CRF250L dual sport, so I've been doing stretching and now I'm getting there.
The first week I had this bike, I tried the left peg mount & the bike immediately fell over & pinned me under it.
After watching this, I see my upper body was not positioned far enough over the keep the CG on the sidestand. Will try this again.
At home I can step on a piece of 2x4 in the driveway, but I'm not going to carry it around with me.
@@usernamemykel
You don't stop riding when you get old, you get old when you stop riding.
I like this guy for his honesty and directness. He also does not redo clips in which he has not perfectly performed a procedure he meant to demonstrate. (Very realistic how he breathes heavily sometimes after dismounting for example.) He does not make useless words but gets straight to the interesting points and gives only reasonable advice.
Opposite of Moto Jitsu.
As a shorter rider with a taller bike, I truly appreciate this video. My driveway is very steep and I work in the Hill Country, so I'm challenged by several obstacles daily.
I am74 and still riding frequently, almost everyday as I use my bike for transportation whenever possible. I have also had a problem with pain in my right hip for years. No doctor has been able to diagnose what was causing the pain. After switching to the cowboy mount for the last month - guess what? No hip pain! Can't thank you enough.
Thanks iv got a dodgy hip and your vid helped a lot
Good to know. Keep riding safe.
Exactly 40 years younger, just started riding two months back, and I too would love to still be riding frequently in 40 years time,
@@galexi2000 You now have an incentive to stay in shape! I use my motorcycle for daily transportation whenever possible. The more you ride, the better it gets. Good luck and stay safe.
@@joe2479 wow, I love that, an incentive to stay in shape, as the more you ride the better it gets, which is also an incentive. I'm in it for the long run, that's Joe, you an inspiration. 😅
Been riding for 50 years, but still learning! Every video will still have a new or useful nugget of info. Thanks and keep up the great content!
I find knowing how to ride motorcycles very paradoxical - as long as you've ridden a bicycle before and a car in traffic before, riding a motorcycle can be learned in an hour. But as you said, decades can go by and even a smart rider can still discover new dos-and-don'ts.
Adamsın amca ❤❤
Me too.
A really excellent training video. As someone who is 76 years old and having ridden for over 50 years I really appreciate this method of mounting and dismounting. For years I mounted and dismounted with my foot on the ground, but as one gets older that is harder, and especially on a taller bike. So about 3 years ago, I started using the "cowboy" method of mounting, and I am glad to see someone advocating it... Thanks
Me too age 78
Yep
All us older dudes learning stuff we should've known 50 years ago...
Ir maybe we did know but have just forgotten!
Thanks for posting this. Very useful!!
I've been using the "cowboy mount and dismount" for about 5 years. The most other drivers I've met since using it have laughed, because they say it looks funny. But that's the only easy way for me to get on and off of my bike, so I don't care what other riders say.
Having large boxy side cases, there is no other way.
I have really short legs and I've been riding since the 1990s. When I discovered you could do this it was like a revelation to me.
I've been doing on my bikes for years too. Never have the kick stand been hurt. It's amazing how some feel they are expert and can speak for everyone.
Whatever that keeps one riding is a good practice.
@@bakasahara1213 Proof in the pudding err biking
One more tip. You can turn your bike around using the side stand.
Simply face the bike next to the side stand and pull the weight of the bike towards you until you have it balanced with both wheels just off the ground. You can then easily move the back end around until you are pointing in the direction you want to face.
Tip 2. If you park your bike regularly in the garage and dont want to or cant back in, use two round metal drink trays placed on top of each other with a dollop of grease inbetween them. Put the trays under your centre stand and use as a turntable ....👍
your kickstand will not last long doing this
@@Voltomess I have turned my bikes on the main stand and side stand like this for over 30 years. No problems.
@@magneto263 I guess you got a solid bikes with solid kickstands, I don't know if every kickstand can survive that
@@Voltomess Well, early days small two smokes 50cc yam fizzers and suzy ap50, then on to big single yam 500 /600s . Had a spell building low riders with zx engines. Finished up with Beemers and KTM's. Never had a centre stand or side stand break on me.
@@magneto263 It can cause problems to the killswitch sensor on the newer kickstands and many other issues. I was thinking of doing it but i realized that it's just not worth it
When you said cowboy mount the first thing I envisioned was you running up behind the motorcycle and leap frogging onto the motorcycle . Great video 👊✊️👊✊️
Just like Trinity!
I was thinking they did that in the three amigos, didn’t they?
Like Luke Macahan 🤠
I thought he was going to jump from the balcony or roof.
Reminds me of this th-cam.com/video/N9irl60bduk/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for this video. I just did my motorcycle safetly course yesterday and definitely felt like i was still missing a lot of basic bike skills... this is exactly what I needed.
The basic rider course isn't even a skeleton of the knowledge you need to be a truly safe, skilled rider - it's just a few loose bones. You have to keep learning...and learning...and learning to build up a full body of knowledge and "feel" for everything.
The knowledge alone isn't enough, no matter how much of it you've piled up in your brain - you have to *experience* the knowledge on the road. One of my favorite principles is that *close calls are gold* - they drive your knowledge deeper into your instincts like a hammer driving a nail into a board. The knowledge alone is just a box of nails.
Another principle I swear by is that *there's ultimately only one person on the road that has the power to put me in a danger or keep me safe - myself.*
@@craigfinnegan8534 What a great comment!!! That's worthful and true! Fantastic words, KR Henry
Non bikers simply don't understand bikers obsession with where and how they park but it's critical. Thanks for the video.
That’s not where I parked my bike!
Nothing like a Road Glide parked forward, downhill against a curb to get you to understand this obsession :)
@@wickedtwix And on a wet greasy road wearing leather soled boots. I sure learnt the hard way. Never did it again though! 🙂
always good to be pointed out
crushed beer can can be useful ,
Brilliant. I have been riding motorcycles for nearly 60 years and have got on and off my motorcycles making all the mistakes you highlighted in this video. I am not as flexible as I used to be and will now practise the methods you have just suggested. Many thanks for making riding easier. Best wishes, Martin
Excellent tips! I would add this: turning the front wheel left or right, when on the kickstand, changes the leaning angle of the motorcycle, use it to do small angle adjustments...
I'm really surprised he didn't mention that
good point, its a complex lesson really, good video ultimately, eh?
@@bigglyguy8429 He said he likes to keep the front wheel pointing straight ahead.
Also when mounting/dismounting from the high side I turn full lock to the left
your kickstand will not last long doing this
After 55 years of road biking I'm still willing to listen and if necessary change. This is an excellent video which becomes more important as one enters old age and one's body stiffens. At 71 years of age mounting using the footrest can become essential when acrobatics can no longer be easily deployed. If you don't then expect your boot to eventually cut your saddle cover.
But there is a wider issue to consider. Unless you lack sense (like I do - riding a heavy Valkyrie Interstate) maybe change to a bike weighing much less particularly if you bike in difficult weather and on difficult roads like the U.K. where I am based. If you ride in fine weather on endless straight roads (like most of the U.S.A.) then biking is immensely less challenging.
If you are a bright individual, and become fearful when you are about to ride then that is the clue that something nededs to change.
Ivan (also from Devon, England)
Valkyrie is a sweet bike. I just got a Honda 250l rally, wow is it tall.
Who cares with 250 lb dirt bikes, but now that we are migrating to adventure bikes, a tutorial on these fundamentals is much appreciated. Old dogs learning the basics of bike handling, great topic and super clear demonstration. loved the balance dance around the GS, .. a little scary and the most exciting moto video I have ever seen with the motor not running !
thanks Dr!
My friend just sold his 250cc Honda CRF because it was too tall and he kept falling. I'm sniffing around for a fun mini bike or something as I'm finding my own KLX250 a bit tall and top heavy too. Both of us have dodgy knees. I'll try the cowboy thing, might even keep my bike (but I do still want to find another little KLX140 like I had before. Could go anywhere with that thing, as it was so low and easy to ride)
I think a good point to mention is, if you're maneuvering reverse downhill with your bike, you actually do not need your front brake to control the bike's speed. Shut down the engine, leave the bike in first gear and use the friction zone of the clutch to maneuver/brake your bike. I use it everyday because I have a downhill facing parking spot in a garage for my bike and this trick is so much more comfortable because i do not have to reach over for the front brake lever so I can grab the clutch with the left hand and support the bike by grabbing the luggage handle with my right hand.
YES thanks
Great technique tip
Yup. That’s what I do down my steep drive, great you passed that on, kind of thought that’s how everyone did it !
Good video, I have 50yrs riding in the UK, but it does us all good to go back to basics once in a while. We do not have many cowboys here, so it was taught to me as the cavalry mount. Ride safe.
Imo cavalry mount sounds more cool
Never parking your bike in neutral was something I just did because it made sense to me. But it is good that you mentioned it because I've seen many people not doing that.
Also, while practicing balancing your bike while you walk around it, why not have the kickstand down?
It wouldn't be in the way and a little insurance against a left tip would be beneficial.
Yeah that makes sense
There are comments below that you might put undue stress on the sidestand or its mount using the cowboy mount. That is correct. Over time you could break the stand or bend the mount, on certain bikes, if you are a heavier rider. Use common sense on that. Also, yes, you can't do that method on cruiser bikes with forward controls. The video is not showing every way possible to mount, just giving some tips you may not have thought of before. Thanks for the feedback - ride safe
When I do the cowboy mount, I usually do it from the right side to relieve some of the weight on the side stand instead of adding to it. It's also easier to place the right foot because the tank is leaning away from you instead of being in the way. The only time I avoid the right side if I'm on some uneven ground that has the bike leaned over less than it would be normally.
I am in the process of acquiring a Kawasaki Concours 14 it'll be the largest bike I've owned with the top box I find it difficult to get on and off I will try the cowboy method looks like it'll make life easier. I don't think I could have the nerve to move my 1400 CC bike around when it running and use the motor to move it just too much to go wrong luckily I have long legs and I can duck waddle the bike around. I'm actually going to have nightmares just thinking about trying to move that bike around my garage running or up my laneway scary stuff. Parking in gear is brilliant idea I don't know why I didn't think of that before. Overall a great video great information thank you.
@@jps8941 be careful concours do not have real strong side stands. I notice mine flexing when I use it. I love that it has a center stand.
You can get a feel and try shifting weight towards the center of the bike when doing the cowboy mount so there won’t be too much stress on the sidestand.
Although this only applies to people who understand center of gravity (hint: center of gravity will not move down when you stand up on your bike).
I just started getting my wife to mount first, sliding into the riders seat then inching back, I was concerned about the sidestand but a friend pointed out he'd been doing similar 20+ years with no issues. Of course once the self loading luggage is in position it's way harder to cowboy mount without kicking her, not something I want to do.
As a somewhat new rider, I have been using this mounting method and it works really well. I dont care who is looking and what they think as my comfort, ease and safety is way more important than their opinion. Just recently bought the Tuareg 660 and that is one tall bike! At 5’7”, this is the only method that will work anyway. Thank you so much for this video.
My wife has got it into her head that she wants to take up motorcycling at the tender age of 53. I can hardly say no as I have been an avid rider purchasing many bikes over the last forty years. This is an excellent instructional video that I will add to my list of much watch videos for her in her journey to becoming a safe and proficient rider. It's all the little details and strategies that I've learned over the years that are often taken for granted by experienced riders and overlooked by newer riders that can make you a better motorcyclist . Thanks for posting this.
I started at 54...been riding 4 years now and it's my passion. She can do this!! Go girl 🤙
I had no intentions EVER at riding a motorbike, I was happy being a pillion passenger… but at 54 I decided I didn’t like being a pillion behind my husband anymore and needed my own handlebars (it’s all about your own control - not that I didn’t trust my husband anymore lol!). Four years of learning, riding, watching tutorials and taking onboard other riders suggestions and I’m enjoying myself. We just had our first ‘long’ ride - three days, beautiful weather, along with patchy rain and plenty of bugs lol! Now I’m ready to get out and start doing our ‘retirement dream’ of long distance riding and seeing more of our beautiful Australia :)
The yt channels of „MotoJitsu“ and „Ride like a Pro“ are very helpful too for learning what and how and why to do (or not to do) when riding 😉
@@jenniemuller8866 Me too Sister, I was going to start with Tassie this Summer, but it's a washout. So maybe I should spend Summer at home in the Blue Mountains, in case of fires, then head North to Bananaland.
The Center Stand tutorial is super helpful, I have driven motorcycles all of my life and never realized what you just showed us on how to use the Center Stand. I really appreciate your attention to detail!
Good stuff! simple but very effective. I'm almost embarrased to admit that I learned a few things from this video! Thanks a lot from Devon, England
Hey Big Rock, I'm a guitarist and have been for a loooong time, 39 years, it's what I love the most. I started riding back in 92 but about 4 years ago I stopped, now I got a new bike and I love it and I spend more time on it than on the guitar ...but your vids and a few more others have been priceless because despite having ridden for over 20 years now I feel like a noob after not even touching a bike for the last four, thanks for the vid. take care. Mike.
Great video! I will now always leave my bike in gear when parking. It just makes so much sense and I'm feeling a little embarrassed that I never considered this before. Thanks so much for sharing this. I am now subscribed and the notification bell has been "rung".
thanks
If you STRUGGLE GETTING YOUR BIKE ON THE MAIN STAND ... I have a ST1300 and in my regular slot in the garage, using a piece of wood (about 1-1.5" thick x 2ft in length x 6-8" wide) under my rear wheel - ride/push the bike onto it and you can reduce the overall height the centre stand/bike needs to travel and I can do this in a pair of moccasins even using the Big Rock method of standing on the lever!
Great tips BRM, every day is a learning day!
GREAT STUFF! I've been mounting and dismounting that way for a while now. Can't remember where I learned it, but it sure does make it easy and makes you look like a pro (also because i'm vertically challenged). I suffer from a herniated disk which was caused by believe it or not: dismounting without using the footpeg. The bike was tall and I forced to land my left foot on the ground. I couldn't get my right leg over and the bike started to tip over. I tried hard to prevent the bike from hitting the ground (to avoid getting embarassed around friends). The weight was too much and I heard a silent crack! I never thought the pain I felt for a couple of years after that was caused by this. Eventually, I went to a doctor and was told that I had a herniated disk.
I also learned to park uphill with the front facing upwards and it makes me feel more confident to leave the bike.
Gotta learn the COG and walk around it with the side stand up (without dropping it).
Thanks for your very informative videos!
"vertically challenged" 🙄
All I can say is Keep doing it this way. Certain income for me. As a Mastertech at BMW, I replace side stands and sometimes frames from heavy people bearing the weight of the bike, their bags and themselves on a skinney little piece of tubing with a narrow pad. 😅
Excellent info for an old man. I I'm tall and ridden dirt bikes all my life so never needed this stuff. Now I'm mature, lol, and have a litre sprint gt. Even an old dog can learn new tricks!
Another old man here....I agree %100..
My right hip kills me when I try to lift it over the seat. Made me scared I could never get a taller bike. Thanks for the video. I pretty confident I my hip will no longer be my problem :)
Amazing. I rode motorcycles for decades without these mounting or dismounting methods. They look a little goofy to me. Some of his parking advice is also ill-advised if the handlebars/front wheel is turned sharply to the side into the locked position. Of course, the very best way to avoid trouble is to avoid trouble - find a safe place to park, don't move the bike unless safely onboard, and so on.
Thank god someone has some common sense!
Same here Robin as imo that is the worst way to mount or dismount a bike because if the side stand bolt snaps (has happened to me) the bike is going to fall onto you and you dont stand a chance so simply stopped watching at that point to be honest as l can't take someone seriously who advises imo such a dangerous method to get on or off a bike
Thanks for the channel and keeping it real. I like the authenticity!
No fakeness, no silly jingles - just good useful information !
As someone who came back to biking several months ago after many years away, I was very impressed with not only your video, but also that you have made the effort to address these basic techniques. So thank you, but can I perhaps offer a few comments?
#1 Parking on dirt and other soft surfaces.
Don't forget that tarmac can soften in hot weather: it may seem ok when you park but a few hours later your bike can be on its side.
I have fitted a foot extender to my side stand as you advise. In addition, I always carry a purpose-made flat circular plastic support for placing on soft ground underneath it if I am worried about the side stand sinking in. It's about 4 inches across and I keep in the top left pocket of my jacket, so if I can take it out and throw it onto the ground beside my side stand, without getting off my bike. I may have to move it with my left foot for the best position, but this is a lot better than dismounting to search for a rock as you suggest. These are available from bike shops or online. Or you could carry a small piece of wood or other suitable material.
#2 Moving the bike around using the motor.
I think using the motor as you suggest is fine but also potentially dangerous, particularly for new riders and if you aren't yet totally familiar with your new bike. It's very easy to panic and let the clutch out, with disastrous results. I do detect a little showmanship here! I think that this technique should be avoided unless you have parked badly on an up slope and there is no other option.
#3 Moving the bike around without the motor
You haven't addressed this at all unfortunately. The best technique is to keep the bike in first gear, (motor off) then from the left side of the bike, grab the left handlebar with your left hand, and the rear grab handle with your right hand. Lift the bike off the side stand, then pull in the clutch and pull the bike forwards with the grab handle. Leave the side stand down. If the bike starts to run away from you, simply let the clutch out and pull the bike back down onto the side stand. The clutch can also be used to slow down or stop the bike if you're moving it backwards.
#4 Taking the bike off the centre stand
This is essentially the same technique as #3. Grab the left handlebar and grab handle, keep the bike in first gear and put the side stand down. Pull in the clutch and pull the bike forward with your right hand on the grab handle. If the bike wobbles or runs away from you as it comes off the centre stand, just let out the clutch and pull it down onto the side stand. You can also do this in reverse when putting the bike up onto the centre stand: if it doesn't go up, and tries to fall or run away from you, just let the clutch out and pull it back onto the side stand.
Again, great video, I look forward to more from you! Maybe something on the usual topics: cornering, low speed turns etc. You do have a very fresh and practical approach.
thank you for all this, very good advice
Side stand down while taking it off the center stand offers the opportunity to crush your foot. Almost did it once.
Now I sit on the bike to take it off the center stand
@@gunfzx I have to say I’ve never felt at risk of doing that. But we all have our own tricks for managing our bikes. So if sitting on it works for you, go for it!
@@josephlarmor550 much more controllable for a 650 lb bike too.
@@josephlarmor550 #2 mistake in this video - th-cam.com/video/H6Sii5FfKnk/w-d-xo.html
No more struggling to get off the bike anymore. Have always put my foot on the ground and struggled to lift my other leg over the panniers.
Great video. Thanks for sharing 👍.
Thanks for video...a couple of things I've learned: if parking on a side hill, do not park at 90 degrees (perpendicular) across the hill if at all possible. Parking on an angle (front at higher end of slope) reduces the difference in lean angle with bike on side stand (e.g. 45 degree angle is 50% less additional lean). It also makes it much easier to back bike out using gravity to compensate for the extra difficulty manoeuvering (increased distance to the ground for your right leg). Side hills again: If the ground is soft, having the sidestand side of bike towards top of slope to reduce rather than increase lean angle will greatly reduce tendency to sink. I also have a rule when shunting heavy bikes around using the motor, which is to only use the motor when straddling the bike with both feet on ground. It is far safer, e.g. should you feed in a bit too much clutch and bike lurches forward more than intended. Oh yes...and don't wear sandals (or footwear with soles that can snag undulations on ground such as unleveled paving) to manoeuvre your bike around!
good point
In the UK, when we learn to ride (we have to have proper training over a decent amount of time, not like some US states) we’re taught never to do the mounts you do. We’re also taught to turn the front wheel against the kerb or away, depending on the direction of the slope. The problem with using the pegs to mount is, eventually the additional stress you put on the stand, will definitely cause it to snap with disastrous results. It might not happen within 10k miles, it may be less or more, depending on the weight and force exerted on the side stand. The other thing we’re taught, is not to put your left foot down when stationary. This should be on the rear brake, until such time as you want to dismount. At that point, you hold the front brake, which on a BMW is linked to the rear brake.
Ultimately, it’s about how you feel comfortable. However, if you can’t get your feet down it means that bike is not suitable for you and you are endangering yourself and others personally, I tend to agree with our UK instructors and I’m guessing European instructors too…..that’s because BMW offer a wide range of seat and suspension lowering across all their models.
Thanks for the straight forward and instructive video. Cowboy mount/dismount seems entirely intuitive to me. I’m 5’4”, short inseam, and it’s the only method I’ve ever used to get on/off my small adventure bike, especially with luggage.
So I've been doing it wrong for 40 years but now I am a Cambridgeshire cowboy! Excellent few tips here.
Although I did horseback riding for 20 years, it would never have occured to me to apply that mounting method to my motorcycle. What a fantastic idea (as now I am bit older, I struggle quite a bit getting my leg over my motorcycle seat). I only have to be careful with that center of gravity (a horse has to learn to balance this - hence you are recommende training to mount from both sides,). But I guess I can learn that bike mounting method, too.
Hi from Australia, I am 79 years old {and still riding} and have been since I was 12, I have always parked my bikes in this exactly the same way all these years Great video.
Thank you. I just got my bike today, will be doing my cbt in a week. After watching your video, I mounted and dismounted my bike a few times with the greatest of ease. So pleased. :)
I've seen lots of riders get on their bike, hit the starter, and fall over because the bike was in gear. I like always putting it in neutral. No drops in 52 years of riding yet.
Very good video and explanations having been riding 50+ years it was drummed into us NOT to mount bikes putting weight on the prop stands as older machines not only had flimsy stands but in some cases could twist on the frame. However being one of those who are short in the leg (had to lower my FZS1000 ) I will certainly try this technique.
I’m 65 yrs. old and 145 lbs…..I use all these methods at some point on my 800 lb. K1600 GTL! Rarely have to centerstand it, but surprisingly did it fairly easily last week. Some extra tips that help: 1) before beginning, change suspension setting to “2-up” riding, stiffens and slightly raises suspension…2) use a 1” or higher wood board under the rear tire, it raises bike for the centerstand to grip better…3) as you stand on centerstand, do a quick slight rock forward of bike and quickly use rearward rebound to help roll it backwards onto the stand. Works!
Excellent advice
Thanks for the tips, Ian. Bought my first “tall” bike and your pointers have helped me navigate the parking and maneuvering with ease.
I've been riding for years and found this video a huge help.
I have knee pain and struggle sometimes, I've accidently kicked a bike over and I'm always annoyed at scraping my dirty boot over the seat or kicking my luggage or topbox.
I've used this method before but usually only when no-ones around as I felt I'd be ridiculed for it. Seeing and hearing you do it makes perfect sense and even safer. Thanks. 👍
Slow speed drills! Getting over obstacles like logs with an adventure bike. Tire change in the field.
These would be nice how to-vids.
Keep up the good work! Lovin it! 👍
thanks
Best class I ever took was Ride Like a Pro which is solely about slow riding and maneuvering. Seems like such a simple thing but everything begins and ends with slow maneuvering. So glad I took it.
@@Romenet310 been thinking about one of those classes, too.👍🏻👍🏻🏍😀
No one ever taught me these things. I had no motorcycle-riding dad or older brother or friend when I started riding. Thanks!
This is gold for new riders! Thank you
Glad you think so!
Very helpful vid for a 69 years old guy, sometimes in trouble esp. with uphill or downhill parkings. Have to train also getting up from the right side (one time I parked too near to the gas pump, I got off, but no more on, this was slapstick pure and very ashaming for a biker seeing to get on again)! Training, training, training! Zhanx for this funtastic video! KR Henry
Thanks . I won’t tell you how long I’ve been riding but I’m 70 now and mounting dismounting has become a challenge . Tried this today and that’s my method from now on , looks cool too :-)
In my opinion, it's too dangerous to be moving the bike around in gear while you're walking next to it. Well, maybe not in general if you're careful and have some skill. But it's not something I will be doing.
One thing I learnt last week was to push the bike with your body (while you're stood next to it, not sat on it), by leaning your hip/body against the fuel tank and pushing forwards with your legs. It provides a surprising amount of forwards momentum and is more than enough to get the bike rolling so you're not pushing with your hands - only steering. It may sound counter-intuitive but give it a go!
Great tips here. I’m definitely going to try that “cowboy mount”. Looks so much easier than the way I’ve been mounting my V-Strom 1000.
You can do it!
Good tips and if I can offer another: Never, ever hear yourself or tell someone to "grab the front brake". Make it a point to get that phrase out of your mind. Anytime you touch that right lever, do it intentionally and with awareness of the lever pressure Even when rolling your bike around the garage, get in the habit of applying the brake so smoothly that you can't even feel the suspension compress. Thanks for the good content.
You could practice the balancing by keeping the side stand down while you do it. It doesn't throw the CG off enough to make a difference and it will save your plastics if you don't have a crash cage. Having a metal plate to toss on the ground for the side stand is a big help too. I've had my bike put holes in asphalt parking lots before. There's nothing more scary than seeing your bike tip lower and lower in a parking lot.
I know a lot of people mount their bikes like climbing into a horse saddle and you do hear of the occasional woops moment.
I think you need to refer to your owners manual a bit more. It's a no no according to most manufacturers and is highlighted as such in most owners manuals.
It's up to you, be aware, you will have a fight on your hands if you think of claiming warranty.
I've worked for two dealerships and the only time I've seen a broken side stand is on a Ducati where the casting was porous.
The side stand is not the usual item to give, its the very small holding pin that tends to give, usually no larger than 1/8" or 3mm and if you're a 200lbs + person you may wish to consider that little pin is what is holding you and the bike while you climb on John Wayne style.
Thank you for the tips. Will certainly try practicing them. I'm kind of on the short side at almost 5'7" and getting on and of my Kawasaki KLE 500 is kind of a challenge sometimes.
You have us some really good tips on NOT tipping over for sure. I bought my '94 Electra Glide with an optional roll-off stand. That stand, mounted on the front underframe, was a handy way to park that 800lb bike vertically. However, you can imagine how stupid I felt, one day, on a road trip, when I returned from paying the bill inside the gas station, only to find my brand new, fully loaded, bike laying on it's side because I hadn't realized the roll-off stand feet were in a slight depression and that lazy bike had simply rolled off the stand and laid down to wait for me! After that, I always checked to make certain I was using my roll-off stand on a flat surface. Thanks for all the good information.
Great tips - thanks. You didn't show getting the GS off the centrestand. Especially difficult if you are pointing up even a slight slope.
Tip from experience - don't have the sidestand down in preparation when taking the bike off the centrestand otherwise you may squash your toes when it drops down!
Thank you for showing things that looking back now could have saved a few drops. Been riding for over 50 years and learned much from your lessons. In addition, hot asphalt parking with loaded bike can give you a surprise coming out after a lunch break....
I thoroughly agree with the techniques taught in this video. I’ve been riding for just short of sixty years and had to learn these techniques through trial and error. Newer riders: Trust what you’ve been shown here. It is really excellent advice!
Lol new riders ignore everything in this video, like the presenter does...
@@dirtygarageguy what
Useful video for all riders with large, high bikes. I am 72, 5ft7” and 11 stone (154lb) and in recent years have had a 1200GS, 2 Honda ST1300s and now a Triumph Tiger. The ST1300 was the lowest but massively heavy and planning ahead before parking up was essential. It was not possibsle to wheel it backwards up a hill. On all bikes I am in the habit of leaving the side stand down until just before I drive off to be safe. This sometimes causes fellow riders to shout out and warn me that the stand is down but I feel it gives extra protection in case of a slip. Another thing to consider with a heavy bike is pulling up at a T junction when the road is sloping down from right to left. If you put your left foot down for support the bike may go over so you always need to look at the gradient - or if there are potholes or drain holes where your foot is hoping to go! Pulling a heavy bike that is leaning over far to the left off its side stand can be hard especially on the heavy ST1300 and I found that pulling the left handlebar right over helps the bike tip up to vertical while you are sitting on the bike. In all a helpful video for all ages in these days of tall, heavy bikes! Thanks.
Excellent, excellent training video. Very well done. I’ve been riding almost 50 years and just bought a new dual sport. This has been really helpful. Thank you.
Hi to you ,writng to you from France, your tutorial is really usefull,learning or discovering other ways so that you don't tip the bike ,great comments,i'll definetely follow your different explanations ,town of Castres (81 tarn)🇺🇸👍🇨🇵yours ...👍🏍Patrick
Great vid! Lol, earned me a, “See, like that, at least SOMEONE has done this before and knows what they’re doing,” from the instructor at my safety course today, when he told us to park the bikes after the first exercise. With this vid fresh in my head, I opted to make a little loop to pull in and park beside the extra bikes with ease, while everyone else opted to dismount and push it in reverse up the little hill into the parking spot.
Sometimes I don’t know what I don’t know, thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Hahahahaha me toooo!
Big Rock Moto, now I am over 50 I do find the cowboy mount/dismount so much easier, quicker and energy saving than stretching my leg up on a high dual sport like my 690, especially with luggage on board. However, I do worry that one day the side stand could snap. I think the 690 side stand is quite strong for a relatively light bike but you never can be sure how many mounts/dismounts it might take! I do concentrate on trying to centre my weight (as you show here) as I do it to reduce leverage on the side stand as much as possible and to do it quickly. The only point I would make about manoeuvring bikes around for loading etc is that it safer to do it on the right side with the side stand down (as long as there isn't an engine cut out) so if you slip or have a problem you can let it rest back down on the stand.
Thanks bro. I've been riding for 50 years
and I never thought about doing it easier...
Maybe I will when I get older.🤣👍
All kidding aside, great tips.
I am 76 years old. I traded in my '74 Yamaha V-max, largely because I was having great difficulty swinging my leg over the seat. There were other reasons, like needing new tires and unavailability of parts, but I bought a new little Grom. I have 3 other Honda bikes as well. I will enjoy trying this mounting approach out. Us old gezzers have to learn to do a lot of things differently as we get older. Thanks for the tip
Outstanding. One of the most helpful and practical videos I've ever seen on motorcycle handing. Well done.
I just got done watching your video on parking your bike. I am a new owner of my first adventure bike, BMW F850GS. So that video was very helpful. It is totally different from what I usually ride a Harley Davidson softail. I have been watching a lot of your videos, and they are very helpful. I just wanted to thank you, and keep up the good work. Thanks
I have been riding a small 150cc bike with around 130kg for two years and I can pretty much park it fairly easy, in a couple of days I'm going to pick up my first "big bike" so this have been keeping me worried, so I have been trying to find videos like this one for a time now, yours is the best hands down! Thank you so much for all the detailed explanation. There is so many videos about "Riding Basics" but this kind of stuff, parking, mounting really is the first thing you should know, kinda obvious but it was hard to find good information about it.
I had gone for 35 years without riding a bike. Then one day I got the idea that I needed a bike. Previously my biggest bike was a 550 Suzuki.I bought a used 1000 Kawasaki. Glad it was used as there were a few issues with the bike being big and me being small. Never hurt the bike but she went over a few times. Once I parked facing downhill. Fortunately a good samaritan showed up and helped out. I learned a lot as I had no choice. This video would have helped me a lot.
Now I have a 1400 Kawasaki. Planning ahead and "thinking about what you are doing" are critical factors to keep her scratch free.
Thanks for the video.
Thanks for such good well taught video's. There is always things to learn even if you been riding for ever.
Really informative, this is what I was searching for , it’s been 2 week with my new RE Intercepter 200+ kg dry weight and I have already dropped it once while parking on an uneven surface.
Brilliant, every day is a training day - thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it
Thank you for doing this video. I’m 71, and had a right hip replacement 10 years ago, and fractured the same hip 2 years ago. I don’t have full range of motion or strength in that leg yet. It is physically impossible for me to mount my ‘03 VFR800 the way I was doing it the last 45 years. You have given me hope that I can use the ‘cowboy’ technique successfully.
Thank you for the content! Any tip for short GS rider when passengers mount? My wife mounted over the pegs and i almost lost it . I then put the kick stand down and then let her mount. I am new to the GS . Thankful for any tips.
GS is a handful in these situations like all the tall heavy ADV bikes. I'm far from expert but I think a friend or two alongside you while you practice your pillion mount/dismount and these other moves would allow for multiple practice moves without the unfortunate drop. Also practice getting the bike back upright after it does tip (at some point, it will).
@@firesail6707 thank you!
Passengers are another short video. :) As you discovered, the sidestand helps. Make sure they always confirm that you are ready before they mount or dismount the bike. As noted in the video, teach them to center their torso over the bike, and hold on to your shoulder instead of the handlebar.
Been riding for over 10 years and I always leave my bike in neutral - never even questioned the logic of it!
You sure 'learned me'!
Reverse cowboy? Hmmm, I’ve seen that somewhere before!
reverse cowgirl is better but to each his own.
Love it ! AMP ?
I was thinking the same thing, but my mind is always in the gutter. Perhaps he should call it something different.
ahahahaahahahahaaaa
Brokeback Mountain
Thank you for the Yusuf video..i make mistakes even after 45 years of driving..
Im thinking to myself: a 23 minute video on how to mount my motorcycle? This cannot be real.
One of the things that are commonly are used to assist in hillside parking is the motorcycles adjustable suspension function. Using the adjustable suspension control on an adventure style bike to raise or lower the motorcycles suspension height can significantly aid in correcting the lean angle of the motorcycle when parking across a moderate hill.
Parking the bike forward downslope in a parking stall. Did that once, NEVER doing that again 😅
Haha, I can imagine it.
I did that and the bike was in nuetral. I was pulling in a strap and pulled the bike forward and it fell over on the left side. The bike is a mint condition 1981 Goldwing and I scratched the left hand panier.
Never ever will I park my bike on a downward slope ever again.
Thanks. Been riding for years and never thought about putting it in gear to park going downhill. Will always think of you when ever I do this from now on.
I ride a manual car and I don’t trust emergency brake, so I always park in a gear and I’ve carried that over to the bike
I am 70 years old have been riding for 54 years have covered nearly 500,000 miles and still this video has taught me a lot.
I envy your concrete driveway and parking apron. I have a gravel drive and parking area and it's a bastard when you've to hand-manoeuvre a BMW R1200 RT and you're 61 and 5ft 6.
Great content !! ..Only thing you might want to add is wind factor... You don't want to park with your kickstand uphill if you have wind blowing against the kickstand side !! 😅 ❤
Thanks for making the video. Learned a lot from it.
Thanks for the info. It makes perfect sense honstly never thought about it😅.
Great video, and thank you for the tips! This noob learned a lot.
Glad to hear it!
You are so good in explaining the basics
The best .
I have got a BMW 1200 GSa 2010 years make. I sometimes do the "Cowboy mount" but I am a pretty heavy guy (about 110 kg´s) and I am always feeling that I might put to much strain on the side stand when I do that. IS the stand really strong enough to do this? I agree that it certainly makes life easier but I do worry about the stand.... By the way, I love your videos! Straight to the point, honest, no nonsense and very enjoyable. Thank you!
Some people turn the whole bike around using the sidestand, the whole weight of the bike on the stand, looks kinda scetchy but I guess it works. 😄
@@TheFlemmo123 That's interesting! In that case, it certainly should be strong enough f. the "Cowboy mount". Then again, I have heard about people who have managed to break their stands... I am not certain about what they exactly did though.
Thank you! I’ve had a bike for 54 years and as I’ve got older struggled more and more getting on and off. The techniques shown are simple, straightforward and safe.
Great video...
Thanks for the visit
Outstanding video. June 23 marks my 50 years riding but I learned buckets of good stuff from this video. Especially the cowboy mount.
On the subject of soft ground, (almost) every jacket I wear on the bike has a 4" can top in the pocket. The type that has to be removed with a safety can opener so it has a rim and no sharp edges. Never without one.
Thanks for the excellent video.
Thank you, sound advice!
That walking around the motorcycle exercise with the kickstand up, sort of tensed me up!
Yep, something I would never do nor in fact need to do!
Great video, Thanks! Found myself nodding my head in agreement and shouting 'YES YES'. My wife thinks I've gone mad!!