My son is 8, rides a pedal bike and I got him a TTR 90. He has learned how to safely operate it. He has dropped it and crashed it but the lessons he has learned are invaluable, if he decides to ride a friend’s motorcycle in the future or chooses to ride when he gets his license he will have experience already.
I started on a ttr 125 back in 2005. Great choice. A couple years later I was riding 250 and 450 motocross bikes. My dad always preached “brains and balance”, is all that is required to safely ride a motorcycle. Sounds kinda crazy but me and my buddies as 13,14 year olds handled those big bikes just fine. My dad was right. I still wouldn’t recommend it necessarily but yeah your son will be prepared.
@@bullets4brekfst884 In my experience riding bigger bikes is the best way to learn. The 90 is a bigger bike for an 8 year old first timer but no clutch and starting in 3rd gear really slows the acceleration down which might be counter intuitive. 450’s are impressive machines. I currently ride a SuperDuke R and have enjoyed motorcycling since my time on a 50 as a kid.
We males tend to have shorter legs for the same height too. As a 5'6" dude I have 29" inseam. If I hadn't learned to slide my arse off the seat I would never have ridden most of the bikes I've owned. You've done a lot to encourage the vertically challenged rider keep up the good work...
@@fallinginthed33p Of course not, clown shoes are very fashionable. Be safe, ride smart. There are bold riders and old riders, but there aren’t any old bold riders.
I took my motorcycle test at 19. That was in 1989. The tester told me not to put my feet down if I could help it. So I didn’t unless I was at a traffic light. For stop signs, I slowed down and just balanced for a second and then went through. At the end of the test, the tester asked why I never put my feet down and I repeated his instructions. He laughed and said, yeah. I guess I wasn’t clear. I didn’t mean never, just not if you didn’t need to, say for balance or when making a tight turn. But you got me on that. I’ll pass you because you clearly know how to ride. I was on a 79 Honda CB750F.
Kinda of scary a 4 day course qualifies you to be cut loose on the highway.I did the Harley course and I was in a group who have never been on a motorcycle during the course I witnessed a bike flip when the rider used front brake in a swerve and another bike went for a ghost ride when the rider whiskey throttled and was thrown off the bike. I had a lot of years on dirt so I was comfortable on a bike but I still did back roads and school parking lots until I was comfortable with the bike I purchased. I love your content and how you focus on safety
Flat footing a bike does make things easier though. Short rider tricks can help, but only to an extent, and only for getting on the bike and taking off and highly controlled stops. But if you lose your balance even a tiny bit and lean just a little at a stop or in a parking lot, you'll drop the bike, whereas if you can flat foot the bike you can catch yourself easier. Yes, there are short people like Jocelyn Snow doing extreme stunts on big bikes, but that is not what most people do, and most people do not want to keep dropping bikes like you do in your videos - that gets expensive for most folks. So flat footing is not bad advice for most folks.
This is where I was on my Africa Twin. I’m in the process of selling it now, but yes comfort and control was ultimately better for me, having control in more situations is better than maybe ending up in a street situation where I drop in traffic. I know it can be done, short person on a tall bike, but my personal preference and age tell me to do otherwise.
I agree with you on every point. I´m 5'2 and my ride is a Tiger 900 GT which I lowered by 2cm (bit less than an inch). Practice makes it (almost) perfect and being very aware of your surroundings is paramount to avoid any surprises when stopping. Also, I had read the manual even before I got my bike from the dealer. I read manuals. All of them. If it comes with a manual, I´ll read it. You are on the right track. Ride on, ride safe. Cheers from Brazil.
After 8 years off of bikes, last week I got a Tiger 900 GT Pro and am loving it. Thank you for the DairyLand recommendation! Not just cheaper than Lizard and Caveman insurance but better customer reviews. And now, after watching you, I'm actually practicing instead of just assuming I know how to ride. It's more fun being a better rider.
Ya know - I'm new to your channel but what I love about your content is how you're so open about your mistakes and your growth. I will say this tho and I really, REALLY hope it doesn't read too negatively - I can't help but feel like your numerous drops are actually setting up an expectation that it's OK to drop a bike. To me it sets up a mindset that's very difficult to overcome. I watched one of your vids, can't remember which one, where you dropped your bike BUT what I saw was that you gave up on the bike and hopped off when it was still salvageable and the drop was 100% NOT inevitable. You literally let go of one hand, put your foot down and hopped off the bike before it was even on the ground when it looked like you could have planted the foot and held the bike up. Now I'll concede I haven't done as much low speed training as you but my first bike was a 900 lb, 1,200cc cruiser that I paid WAYY too much money for and was brand new. I had engine covers installed over the BMW Boxer engine but I never dropped it. Now in low speed maneuvers I have had plenty of times when it's tried to drop me and I was able to plant my foot and keep it upright....sometimes that hurt my hips or legs....but it didn't drop. In fact, in all my years of riding, I've never dropped a bike. I can't help but feel like this idea of "It's OK to drop your bike" is very similar to the idea of "I had to lay my bike down to avoid a crash but the crash happened anyways" which was debunked thoroughly in my MSF class. Best thing to do is stay upright and control the bike....THAT will give you the best chance for a favorable outcome vs. laying it down. But I could be wrong about this....obviously. We all could be wrong - I would love to hear your thoughts on this and if you've had conversations about this with other riders, particularly those well practiced in the low speed maneuvers. Anyways - I really hope that's not too harsh cuz I really enjoy your vids and wish you all the best!!
Hello all people: Yes, there are one big disadvantage to riding a motorcycle. The fact that I have to stop riding for the day at some point - e.g. to sleep! 😁 I just love riding so much that when I´m about to park the MC for the evening, I ride another one or two rounds around my neighborhood, just for the enjoyment. I wish I knew this earlier in my life, because then I would have started to ride MC sooner. Thank you Carolyn for another, as always, great video! And thank you for all your videos and content. Take care! Br //M Ps. Fun fact, in my opinion: I did not know anyone who rode MC. When I started to ride at a MC driver license - school some in my family, some friends and a lot of people I spoke to in social gatherings didn´t see this positively. They were worried (which I can understand) or just simply warned me. After I bought my own MC these people have a positive interest, some even want their own MC driving license 🙂
Doodle, it's amazing to see how you continually train yourself in becoming a better rider. You've grown so much in your skills as a rider over the past few years, and it shows in your videos, keep up the good work!! 👍 💯
I have been watching your channel for a few years but not commented much. Just want to say thank you for the honesty with your reviews and general biking- most guys (gentlemen sorry but it’s true) don’t like sharing mistakes as it makes us look less knowledgeable. I have learnt a heap about road motorcycle stuff off your channel. Just bought a little vtr Honda and loving the honesty I can get from your channel and also TH-cam in general. Thank you and keep up the good work.
Yesterday I recommended you and your channel to a short girl here in the Netherlands that was stressing cause she's couldn't bike that was nice and "her size". Myself I'm a 6-foot tall guy, and I really enjoy your content! Especially the fun you put into it! Thanks for the great videos, Erik
Doodle, as an attorney doing insurance claims for 30 years, I can tell you Dairyland may be cheaper than Progressive but Progressive is by far a better company when you have a claim. In my experience, Dairyland will use every cheapn insurance trick to avoid paying claims. Progressive will back you up in a claim situation. Just my opinion after 30 yrs as a personal injury attorney. BTW, I am from the DR, too. My family is from Barahona.
I agree that flat footing isn't necessary, but I think it's helpful. I think even as a beginner rider, as long as you can reach the ball of your foot on both sides, it's a good start.
I'm glad you mentioned 3 wheels ;-) Having only a car license, i'm not allowed to ride 2 wheeled motorbikes in Europe. So i bought myself a 3 wheels bike, the Yamaha Tricity 300 with all the bells and whistles like ABS and Traction Control. Now what you said about checking your bike, i do that almost every time. Light go on when the bike is started so that's an easy check. Switch on the hazards to check if all the blinky bits are working. Before start every month check the oil an tire pressure. And as you do, for every repair or check that i can't check or at any moment i find something not right, straight to the dealer to let it check out. As Motojitsu, you also told me a couple of tricks and tips i would never know so thanks for that and it also helped me to decide to go for the motorbike license so i can ride the 2 wheels. ;-)
I know everyone cannot do this. I get it, but I think anyone who owned a dirtbike and road off-road before converting to on road will really benefit from the slow technical stuff especially if you just did trail riding because depending on when you ride you’re gonna run into that gravel you’re gonna run into slow creepy sections that you have to go slow you’re gonna run into slippery services Mud and I think a sense these will relate very well to the slow maneuvers and obstacles that she will face on road just my two. Cents.
Doodle. . . My wife and i truly love your channel and your candor. . . We would love to meet up with you and your husband someday to thank you. . . Headed to ADV GETON in Sturgis July 2024. . . Was there last year. . . Amanda and her brother were there and "I believe" we all had a blast. .. It's great to meet and communicate with folks who truly love riding... Be safe and we hope to "figuratively" bump into you someday. . Cheers Glenn H
Hey DOM! Awesome information and advice. I received a ton of solid advice from a great group of riders before I purchased my first bike. I will say this, no matter what size it is, always respect it, the one time you don't , you may be sorry. Thanks for such an entertaining and useful channel about motorcycles. Give your editor a raise and a G43X for Christmas.
Would be cool to see you get into motorcycle maintenance, the amount of money you can save from changing your own tires, oil, chain and sprockets, etc can really go along way. Especially if a flat tire leaves you on the side of the road.
I tell you what they really don't tell ppl about basic rider course. They are not there to teach you one on one how to ride. They will try to help you but the goal is to get your endorsement. Once you have it It's your duty to keep learning They do have more classes where u can learn to ride but that cost money 95% ppl don't understand that when they take the class. They think it's to learn but it's not
G'day doodle 😀👍 I'm a 5'6tall male & once had 4 mates that rode bikes for years & each one of them at different times have tried to convince me not to get a big bike because they had it in their heads I'm to short or not strong like them ! Long story short i own a Bagger & yes it's big & heavy ! But i love it & have learnt many great tips to now handle the bike very well 💪😝 Watching your video sparked me up when listening to you speak about not letting the boys & others say you can't do this & can't do that crap 👎 I'm glad you still did what you wanted to do through determination & personal growth (within the mind ) & kicked ass 😝 i hope your videos inspire young girls & boys to go for it & try ! I'm happy in myself years ago to do same thing with my mates & ignore the Negitve talk because they are all 6ft plus guys & i am 5'6 , Hat off to you noodle keep on keeping on hey 🏍💪👍 Cheers from Aus 🇭🇲🍹🕺
I bought my first bike because i fell in love for it; KZ-650 c1 from 1977. . Being 5' 10" and rather strong, I've never experiment all your chalenges. . . going too fast was scrapping the center stand peg. . As for maintenance, I always did it on all my cars , and bycicle. . We do not all have the same shorts comming. . . With my last bike FJR 1300 I would slide the rear on gravel just for the fun of it 😄. . Fear is your worst ennemy. . .
MSF heavily recruits former racers to be instructors. They really know the importance of safety. (and personal limits), You are fortunate in having so many resources available now!
All great points Doodle. In my opinion, practicing is the most important. Along with taking multiple courses. After I got my license I thought I knew everything I needed to know. I then opened my eyes and realized I had a lot to learn! Great video!
Great comments and perspectives Doodle!!! So, 100% truth… this past Sunday I was on my way back from an afternoon ride (~250 miles) and at an intersection, I saw a road to my right that was a dead end. So, yep, I turned right, and rode circles and did some U-turn! 😂 here is the truth part, I thought about you and your practice videos as I was getting my practice. Random, right? But, I took advantage of an opportunity. Anyway, another great video!!
That's awesome!! That's really all you need - quick practices on your ride home 1x a week. I'm being excessive with my 3000 u turns challenges but I am a TH-camr we're dramatic 😜
If you have a Harley, you could get “Harley insurance.” It’s the cheapest for owning a Harley. I have full coverage with really high coverage for 100$ a month.
Way back in the early 70s I bought my first motorcycle. Kawasaki S2 350 two stroke. After reading many motorcycle magazines man I knew it all. Well less then 400 miles I rolled it over in a curve dislocated shoulder broken leg and 400 dollars later to fix I learned a valuable lesson. Learn and ride at one's own pace!
I'm Getting a Bike Next Month For My Birthday. Going To Practice More Slow Speeds. It does Improve TheTimes and Different Bikes You Use. I Learned on Two Different Bikes on My MSF Course .
This was wonderful. What a great overview for new or prospective riders. I’m 5’ 8” but still found Joclyn Snow’s videos very helpful, and, at 71, I’m still enjoying classes (track riding schools). As an old person, allow me to make a busybody suggestion that you consider some clunky, less comfortable, but much safer foot/ankle/leg protection, such as racing boots for street or sport bikes and off road (motocross or enduro) boots for larger adventure bikes. (See Bret Tkacs’s or Brake Magazine’s boots videos, for starters). It sucks, sitting around waiting for leg injuries to heal 🛵 (I’m currently wondering whether Annie Oakley could have ridden a motorcycle backwards, since my clutch foot is in a walking boot due to a sports injury. I’m sure nothing could go wrong as long as I attach a small mirror to my helmet.). Your boots are stylish but would not afford much protection in a serious incident. I also ditched short gloves for gauntlet gloves 100 %.
Hi Doodles! When i was just 14, I was lucky enough to get some road riding sence when the older bikers took me out for a summer night ride or a ray trip to the coast. Back then no crash helmets were needed. I leant more including riding slow from the old bikers and my uncle when i was just 11 from my uncle. At the time i really thought his old BSA Bantom was a monster, lol. Helps to be lucky i was always told. Some now im almost 70, im careful too 😂😂😂. We dont bounce as well as we did when we were young. Stay safe and happy cruising till next time girl 👍😊. Best wishes for the coming holiday from England to you and yours 🫶.
As a retired veteran Geico is by far the best and cheapest insurance I've had for yrs and I'm a person that is constantly checking for better rates every 6 months. Used to have USAA & the insurance rates gradually went up (no claims filed), State Farm, Progressive, Liberty Mutual, Farmers, etc
My problem is like you say the basic course doesn't really train you much and I need to practice. Your videos have inspired me to practice, especially when it comes to u-turns. I am terrible at them and I realized after watching one of your videos the main problem is I either don't turn my head or turn it far enough and my u-turns are very unstable and super slow because I'm not comfortable. And right u-turns I can not so at all. I need to overcome the block that's keeping me from making right u-turns. I've been riding since 2007 and have some work to do.
High side ( or right side) u-turns suck!! 😂 it’s such an unnatural feeling to have that lean and turn. They are for sure, my least favorite to do. I do them, but not nearly enough… food for thought… guess I’ll make an effort on high side maneuvering for the next few weeks… and then. Add that to my normal practice.
@slimfit767 what do you mean wow? I don't ride that often and right u-turns are not something I do that often so I'm that so proficient or comfortable doing them. Don't judge. When you don't ride often you're not as comfortable doing certain skills on a bike.
Male, 5'4" with a 26 3/4" inseam, I have a R1200 GS lowered 1" with seat in low position that I can get a toe down, a 790 adv with seat concepts low seat, again a toe down, and a 450L, now thats a sight to see haha. I can slide mostly off the seat and get a better foot hold but then I loose the rear brake and peg.
Hi Doodle, love your channel. Very inspirational to see your ferocious motorcycle learning journey! Im 50 and just starting to learn. Given what you know now what principles would you use to decide upon a first big bike ? My end goal is to be proficient enough to ride a larger sports tourer. My first thought was to buy a tall but light adv bike to learn on
I have to admire your adoption of riding heavy bikes. I like tall but not heavy. Even flat footed (which is no help in my brain) I have just never gotten comfortable with anything approaching 650 lbs. I have ridden a few HD touring and Goldwings but just am not comfortable when it's time to stop. I am average height and size for a 53 year old male. So kudos to you!
I’m impressed doodle. You have matured so much. And your knowledge about riding has improved exponentially. Oh by the way I am a Latino. And to see a Latina represent woman and our Latino people is an honor. Keep up the good work.
getting my first street legal bike very soon! (ninja 400). Started with a crf125 and i am very excited to finally get my license and hit the road! Thank you for all your tips; I'm hoping to one day upgrade to a tiger 900 or a tiger sport 850 once I get more comfortable with something smaller and want to expand my horizons to adv biking.
I've learned so much from young lady. Keep it up! Don't stop being genuine. Btw luv the curls! On that note... The title of this video is supposed to be about buying your first bike and I feel like half of it is about riding instruction. 🤔
Dairyland was my first, back in the early 80s (yes, I am old), and once GEICO was cheaper than the rest, then magically, overnight (no accidents/no speeding tickets) my rates seemed to take a huge jump... I moved on to another insurance company, it is probably time to revisit Dairyland....
The way I learned to ride was my dad pushed me a Suzuki GT185 in a parking lot. Doing slow turns and figure 8's you learn to keep your balance real quick. I was 17, 6'2" and 220lbs
It’s a lot harder these days to find people willing to move much on prices sadly. But it’s still a good idea to use the tools and make sure you are not getting screwed. I do think it’s worth it to pay a little bit more from a local dealer you know will back you up if something goes wrong over driving a few hours to save a few hundred. Also you don’t have to be short to have issues with flat footing a bike, I am average height but I can’t flat foot my Ninja because of the much wider seat I added. It doesn’t take long at all to get used to it. Also fully on board with just paying someone to do the maintenance for you. It’s way better than half assing it or putting it off if you are the type not to keep up with it.
I waited until I was 40 to learn to ride a motorcycle. I agree that you need to sit on as many bikes as possible, I found that I didn't really like cruisers, Sport bikes just didn't fit my style, now standard bikes dual sport bikes and adventure bikes really check all the boxes. I ended up with a Royal Enfield Interceptor, and occasionally I'll ride my friends 2 stroke Yamaha DT 175 from 1980. I'm 6'3 but have a short inseam (yay scottish heritage) so some of the bikes even though I'm tall feel a bit tall for me (for now)
Are you going try honda xl750r Transalp, a little lower than the tiger, really well balanced, Thanks for all your great videos, and special videos about first people of America, best wishes,enjoy your riding
Europe does have a much more extensive course to get your license than here. Ive seen a lot of people say that. I found it funny when I looked into what if I wanted to go over there and ride.... US riders license is accepted as is.Some countries require this thing that translates your license but no additional training required
Kelly Black Book for Motorcycles. I've purchased, owned, ridden and sold over 50 motorcycles in the last 17 years. My latest purchase is a new Harley-Davidson Road Glide 117 ST Fast Johnnie. My experience is no sales person will discuss the Kelly Blue or Black book with you because they don't want to hear that from a customer. I've had them tell me the books are off. Well, yes, the books are always off against the buyer in their minds. LOL. So, your best bet is to find a really honest dealer, buy from them, get close enough that they know you trust them and they trust you and you will be able to name your price. I literally did that for many years, I would go in, tell them I was serious about buying and I would name my price. Always did well but in buying new, used (or preowned as they like to say it) and when trading in. I've done many deals. One was a brand new BMW Adventure, a 2018 I ordered in and in less than a year I returned and traded it for two Honda Monkey's! No kidding. A Yellow Banana (wish I had kept that one) and a Red one. Traded them back to the dealer a bit later and did some other deal. I'm famous for buying and selling. My insurance guy thinks I'm "dealing" but I'm not, I'm just trying to catch up as I didn't get started riding until I was 46 years old. Most dealers who are really good will help you find the right machine for you. They really will. I've not found too many that I didn't trust. Harley's are great reliable machines for both riding around your town and long distance and they have an amazing national dealer network for service as you travel. Love HD. BMW but honestly they do not have the network for traveling across country in my way of thinking. The brands of Suzuki, Honda and Yamaha are really good for many reasons and do have a pretty good national dealer network. It always depends on what riding you are going to be doing but Doodle very few ever know what kind of riding they want to do until they get into this wonderful sport. Ride on!
You can safely lower any bike down to 3 in getting lowering links and having it professionally done. From my research. I have not wrote a bike since I was a teenager but I have recently gotten back into it. And I'm short lol I'm 5'6 and on a good day.
As a 5'4" guy who rides a standard height 700 lbs Kawasaki Concours 15 techniques for short riders. Not ashamed to admit Jocelyne Snow convinced me not NOT lower my bike. One foot down at stops is the best skill ever.
I love your videos. I am 5’1” at best but with my 2 inch healed boots it really helps. I am looking to buy my first bike here in Atlanta after I take my first MSF course in early January. I keep looking at Iron 883. However, my husband does not like buying used. Nightster is not an iron 883. I am stuck on Harley. I want to be straight up because of my back. I really want my first to be Harley too. Thoughts?
My first motorcycle I got from a junk yard because Its my hobby and I like working old bikes! I got 1967 Harley Sprint and fix it up and drive back it back & forth to school in West High in Iowa 1973 I was 13yrs old then and up to 1979 and I stop because I join US Navy! Mrs. Doodie 🌹
This is a good piece! Do you have a video before you got your first bike and your process of getting what you got? Second, the Rev it Jacket and pants what is the male equivalent I would like to check it out. Also why did you select Rev it over other brands if you do not mind me asking. Thanks
If I only rode bikes I can flat-foot, I would not have enjoyed most of the bikes that I have over the years. I always read the Owner's Manual for each bike I buy, and I often buy the optional Service Manual and read that, too.
When I learned I owned a scooter and my first real motorcycle was a Honda Rebel 250, old, and cheap. I had that for about a year and took it step by step. Ride at night. Ride in the rain. Ride at night in the rain. Have a close call or two. Just like skateboarding. Take it one step at a time. There are old pilots and there are bold pilots. But there are no old, bold pilots.
IMO it's worth it to note that inseam matters much more than height in terms of getting feet down... people with long torsos will naturally have a shorter inseam regardless of their height. Theoretically you could be 6'4" and have a 27" inseam and still struggle with taller bikes. That being said I'm 100 percent in agreement that you can ride any bike regardless of inseam if you have the right techniques
I love the doggie butt face at 5:36 into the video. That's great. Would you do a video on riding 2 wheelers with canines. i can suggest a starting place with Baron Von Red Dog and John Miller. Miller, an electronics engineer once employed at Jet Propulsion Laboratory. In the book "Flat Out" by Jerry Hatfield , There is a page devoted to the duo. In that page, it says Miller did some sort of work for Jay Leno. Leno would be another step in your "motorsycle" journey.
Msf beginners course is basically a course to learn how to safely turn your bike off and on and move it from the garage to the street so you can safely practice and start building real skill. It’s bare minimum. Which is kind of a shame but beats nothing.
Im tall enough to flat foot any bike, but would never do so. Right foot on brake, bike in 1st gear no matter where I stop. Left foot is the only thing holding up the bike at a stop.
My son is 8, rides a pedal bike and I got him a TTR 90. He has learned how to safely operate it. He has dropped it and crashed it but the lessons he has learned are invaluable, if he decides to ride a friend’s motorcycle in the future or chooses to ride when he gets his license he will have experience already.
I started on a ttr 125 back in 2005. Great choice. A couple years later I was riding 250 and 450 motocross bikes. My dad always preached “brains and balance”, is all that is required to safely ride a motorcycle. Sounds kinda crazy but me and my buddies as 13,14 year olds handled those big bikes just fine. My dad was right. I still wouldn’t recommend it necessarily but yeah your son will be prepared.
@@bullets4brekfst884 In my experience riding bigger bikes is the best way to learn. The 90 is a bigger bike for an 8 year old first timer but no clutch and starting in 3rd gear really slows the acceleration down which might be counter intuitive. 450’s are impressive machines. I currently ride a SuperDuke R and have enjoyed motorcycling since my time on a 50 as a kid.
We males tend to have shorter legs for the same height too. As a 5'6" dude I have 29" inseam. If I hadn't learned to slide my arse off the seat I would never have ridden most of the bikes I've owned. You've done a lot to encourage the vertically challenged rider keep up the good work...
Having stronger legs helps too with keeping the bike upright when you have only one foot on the ground.
Or just get a bike that fits you. Do you wear shoes that are too big for you?
@@chiefjoseph8154 and get stuck with a Rebel 300 forever? Come on.
@@fallinginthed33p Of course not, clown shoes are very fashionable. Be safe, ride smart. There are bold riders and old riders, but there aren’t any old bold riders.
Same, at 5’5 I have a 29 inseam so I’m a bit limited on what to ride
I took my motorcycle test at 19. That was in 1989. The tester told me not to put my feet down if I could help it. So I didn’t unless I was at a traffic light. For stop signs, I slowed down and just balanced for a second and then went through. At the end of the test, the tester asked why I never put my feet down and I repeated his instructions. He laughed and said, yeah. I guess I wasn’t clear. I didn’t mean never, just not if you didn’t need to, say for balance or when making a tight turn. But you got me on that. I’ll pass you because you clearly know how to ride. I was on a 79 Honda CB750F.
LOL! I bet you're really good at balancing though
Kinda of scary a 4 day course qualifies you to be cut loose on the highway.I did the Harley course and I was in a group who have never been on a motorcycle during the course I witnessed a bike flip when the rider used front brake in a swerve and another bike went for a ghost ride when the rider whiskey throttled and was thrown off the bike. I had a lot of years on dirt so I was comfortable on a bike but I still did back roads and school parking lots until I was comfortable with the bike I purchased. I love your content and how you focus on safety
Flat footing a bike does make things easier though. Short rider tricks can help, but only to an extent, and only for getting on the bike and taking off and highly controlled stops. But if you lose your balance even a tiny bit and lean just a little at a stop or in a parking lot, you'll drop the bike, whereas if you can flat foot the bike you can catch yourself easier. Yes, there are short people like Jocelyn Snow doing extreme stunts on big bikes, but that is not what most people do, and most people do not want to keep dropping bikes like you do in your videos - that gets expensive for most folks. So flat footing is not bad advice for most folks.
This is where I was on my Africa Twin. I’m in the process of selling it now, but yes comfort and control was ultimately better for me, having control in more situations is better than maybe ending up in a street situation where I drop in traffic. I know it can be done, short person on a tall bike, but my personal preference and age tell me to do otherwise.
I agree with you on every point. I´m 5'2 and my ride is a Tiger 900 GT which I lowered by 2cm (bit less than an inch). Practice makes it (almost) perfect and being very aware of your surroundings is paramount to avoid any surprises when stopping. Also, I had read the manual even before I got my bike from the dealer. I read manuals. All of them. If it comes with a manual, I´ll read it. You are on the right track. Ride on, ride safe. Cheers from Brazil.
After 8 years off of bikes, last week I got a Tiger 900 GT Pro and am loving it. Thank you for the DairyLand recommendation! Not just cheaper than Lizard and Caveman insurance but better customer reviews. And now, after watching you, I'm actually practicing instead of just assuming I know how to ride. It's more fun being a better rider.
we bike and insurance twinsies 😜
Ya know - I'm new to your channel but what I love about your content is how you're so open about your mistakes and your growth.
I will say this tho and I really, REALLY hope it doesn't read too negatively - I can't help but feel like your numerous drops are actually setting up an expectation that it's OK to drop a bike. To me it sets up a mindset that's very difficult to overcome.
I watched one of your vids, can't remember which one, where you dropped your bike BUT what I saw was that you gave up on the bike and hopped off when it was still salvageable and the drop was 100% NOT inevitable. You literally let go of one hand, put your foot down and hopped off the bike before it was even on the ground when it looked like you could have planted the foot and held the bike up.
Now I'll concede I haven't done as much low speed training as you but my first bike was a 900 lb, 1,200cc cruiser that I paid WAYY too much money for and was brand new. I had engine covers installed over the BMW Boxer engine but I never dropped it. Now in low speed maneuvers I have had plenty of times when it's tried to drop me and I was able to plant my foot and keep it upright....sometimes that hurt my hips or legs....but it didn't drop.
In fact, in all my years of riding, I've never dropped a bike.
I can't help but feel like this idea of "It's OK to drop your bike" is very similar to the idea of "I had to lay my bike down to avoid a crash but the crash happened anyways" which was debunked thoroughly in my MSF class. Best thing to do is stay upright and control the bike....THAT will give you the best chance for a favorable outcome vs. laying it down.
But I could be wrong about this....obviously. We all could be wrong - I would love to hear your thoughts on this and if you've had conversations about this with other riders, particularly those well practiced in the low speed maneuvers.
Anyways - I really hope that's not too harsh cuz I really enjoy your vids and wish you all the best!!
Hello all people: Yes, there are one big disadvantage to riding a motorcycle. The fact that I have to stop riding for the day at some point - e.g. to sleep! 😁
I just love riding so much that when I´m about to park the MC for the evening, I ride another one or two rounds around my neighborhood, just for the enjoyment. I wish I knew this earlier in my life, because then I would have started to ride MC sooner.
Thank you Carolyn for another, as always, great video! And thank you for all your videos and content. Take care!
Br //M
Ps. Fun fact, in my opinion: I did not know anyone who rode MC. When I started to ride at a MC driver license - school some in my family, some friends and a lot of people I spoke to in social gatherings didn´t see this positively. They were worried (which I can understand) or just simply warned me. After I bought my own MC these people have a positive interest, some even want their own MC driving license 🙂
Doodle, it's amazing to see how you continually train yourself in becoming a better rider. You've grown so much in your skills as a rider over the past few years, and it shows in your videos, keep up the good work!! 👍 💯
Here's an early release for my channel members, hope you enjoy
I have been watching your channel for a few years but not commented much. Just want to say thank you for the honesty with your reviews and general biking- most guys (gentlemen sorry but it’s true) don’t like sharing mistakes as it makes us look less knowledgeable. I have learnt a heap about road motorcycle stuff off your channel.
Just bought a little vtr Honda and loving the honesty I can get from your channel and also TH-cam in general.
Thank you and keep up the good work.
Yesterday I recommended you and your channel to a short girl here in the Netherlands that was stressing cause she's couldn't bike that was nice and "her size".
Myself I'm a 6-foot tall guy, and I really enjoy your content! Especially the fun you put into it!
Thanks for the great videos,
Erik
Appreciate how you invite us along as you learn and improve your skills and knowledge. Just honest and real.
Doodle, as an attorney doing insurance claims for 30 years, I can tell you Dairyland may be cheaper than Progressive but Progressive is by far a better company when you have a claim. In my experience, Dairyland will use every cheapn insurance trick to avoid paying claims. Progressive will back you up in a claim situation. Just my opinion after 30 yrs as a personal injury attorney. BTW, I am from the DR, too. My family is from Barahona.
I agree that flat footing isn't necessary, but I think it's helpful. I think even as a beginner rider, as long as you can reach the ball of your foot on both sides, it's a good start.
I'm glad you mentioned 3 wheels ;-) Having only a car license, i'm not allowed to ride 2 wheeled motorbikes in Europe. So i bought myself a 3 wheels bike, the Yamaha Tricity 300 with all the bells and whistles like ABS and Traction Control. Now what you said about checking your bike, i do that almost every time. Light go on when the bike is started so that's an easy check. Switch on the hazards to check if all the blinky bits are working. Before start every month check the oil an tire pressure. And as you do, for every repair or check that i can't check or at any moment i find something not right, straight to the dealer to let it check out. As Motojitsu, you also told me a couple of tricks and tips i would never know so thanks for that and it also helped me to decide to go for the motorbike license so i can ride the 2 wheels. ;-)
READ YOUR MANUAL, cannot be overstated! Good points in the whole video.
I know everyone cannot do this. I get it, but I think anyone who owned a dirtbike and road off-road before converting to on road will really benefit from the slow technical stuff especially if you just did trail riding because depending on when you ride you’re gonna run into that gravel you’re gonna run into slow creepy sections that you have to go slow you’re gonna run into slippery services Mud and I think a sense these will relate very well to the slow maneuvers and obstacles that she will face on road just my two. Cents.
Doodle. . . My wife and i truly love your channel and your candor. . . We would love to meet up with you and your husband someday to thank you. . . Headed to ADV GETON in Sturgis July 2024. . . Was there last year. . . Amanda and her brother were there and "I believe" we all had a blast. .. It's great to meet and communicate with folks who truly love riding... Be safe and we hope to "figuratively" bump into you someday. . Cheers Glenn H
Hey DOM! Awesome information and advice. I received a ton of solid advice from a great group of riders before I purchased my first bike. I will say this, no matter what size it is, always respect it, the one time you don't , you may be sorry. Thanks for such an entertaining and useful channel about motorcycles. Give your editor a raise and a G43X for Christmas.
Would be cool to see you get into motorcycle maintenance, the amount of money you can save from changing your own tires, oil, chain and sprockets, etc can really go along way. Especially if a flat tire leaves you on the side of the road.
I tell you what they really don't tell ppl about basic rider course.
They are not there to teach you one on one how to ride. They will try to help you but the goal is to get your endorsement.
Once you have it
It's your duty to keep learning
They do have more classes where u can learn to ride but that cost money
95% ppl don't understand that when they take the class. They think it's to learn but it's not
G'day doodle 😀👍 I'm a 5'6tall male & once had 4 mates that rode bikes for years & each one of them at different times have tried to convince me not to get a big bike because they had it in their heads I'm to short or not strong like them ! Long story short i own a Bagger & yes it's big & heavy ! But i love it & have learnt many great tips to now handle the bike very well 💪😝 Watching your video sparked me up when listening to you speak about not letting the boys & others say you can't do this & can't do that crap 👎 I'm glad you still did what you wanted to do through determination & personal growth (within the mind ) & kicked ass 😝 i hope your videos inspire young girls & boys to go for it & try ! I'm happy in myself years ago to do same thing with my mates & ignore the Negitve talk because they are all 6ft plus guys & i am 5'6 , Hat off to you noodle keep on keeping on hey 🏍💪👍 Cheers from Aus 🇭🇲🍹🕺
I bought my first bike because i fell in love for it; KZ-650 c1 from 1977. . Being 5' 10" and rather strong, I've never experiment all your chalenges. . . going too fast was scrapping the center stand peg. . As for maintenance, I always did it on all my cars , and bycicle. . We do not all have the same shorts comming. . . With my last bike FJR 1300 I would slide the rear on gravel just for the fun of it 😄. . Fear is your worst ennemy. . .
MSF heavily recruits former racers to be instructors. They really know the importance of safety. (and personal limits), You are fortunate in having so many resources available now!
I had an ex bike cop that rode for years and years. Apparently the police have decent standards for riding, and not for shooting guns. Lol
All great points Doodle. In my opinion, practicing is the most important. Along with taking multiple courses. After I got my license I thought I knew everything I needed to know. I then opened my eyes and realized I had a lot to learn! Great video!
if you make your own version like this (I certainly didn't invent it) I'll be sure to share it!
@@DoodleOnAMotorcycle oddly enough this was already on my list!
Great comments and perspectives Doodle!!! So, 100% truth… this past Sunday I was on my way back from an afternoon ride (~250 miles) and at an intersection, I saw a road to my right that was a dead end. So, yep, I turned right, and rode circles and did some U-turn! 😂 here is the truth part, I thought about you and your practice videos as I was getting my practice. Random, right? But, I took advantage of an opportunity. Anyway, another great video!!
That's awesome!! That's really all you need - quick practices on your ride home 1x a week. I'm being excessive with my 3000 u turns challenges but I am a TH-camr we're dramatic 😜
Keep doing, learning, enjoying and have as many experiences as you can for as long as you can. You are a bad lady, more power to you.
100% Doodle! Absolutely spot on. 🙏🏻
If you have a Harley, you could get “Harley insurance.” It’s the cheapest for owning a Harley. I have full coverage with really high coverage for 100$ a month.
Way back in the early 70s I bought my first motorcycle. Kawasaki S2 350 two stroke. After reading many motorcycle magazines man I knew it all. Well less then 400 miles I rolled it over in a curve dislocated shoulder broken leg and 400 dollars later to fix I learned a valuable lesson. Learn and ride at one's own pace!
I'm Getting a Bike Next Month For My Birthday. Going To Practice More Slow Speeds. It does Improve TheTimes and Different Bikes You Use. I Learned on Two Different Bikes on My MSF Course .
This was wonderful. What a great overview for new or prospective riders. I’m 5’ 8” but still found Joclyn Snow’s videos very helpful, and, at 71, I’m still enjoying classes (track riding schools). As an old person, allow me to make a busybody suggestion that you consider some clunky, less comfortable, but much safer foot/ankle/leg protection, such as racing boots for street or sport bikes and off road (motocross or enduro) boots for larger adventure bikes. (See Bret Tkacs’s or Brake Magazine’s boots videos, for starters). It sucks, sitting around waiting for leg injuries to heal 🛵 (I’m currently wondering whether Annie Oakley could have ridden a motorcycle backwards, since my clutch foot is in a walking boot due to a sports injury. I’m sure nothing could go wrong as long as I attach a small mirror to my helmet.). Your boots are stylish but would not afford much protection in a serious incident. I also ditched short gloves for gauntlet gloves 100 %.
Well it is official Doodle is now an OG! Way to go Doodle!
Hi Doodles! When i was just 14, I was lucky enough to get some road riding sence when the older bikers took me out for a summer night ride or a ray trip to the coast. Back then no crash helmets were needed. I leant more including riding slow from the old bikers and my uncle when i was just 11 from my uncle. At the time i really thought his old BSA Bantom was a monster, lol. Helps to be lucky i was always told. Some now im almost 70, im careful too 😂😂😂. We dont bounce as well as we did when we were young. Stay safe and happy cruising till next time girl 👍😊. Best wishes for the coming holiday from England to you and yours 🫶.
If you are watching this video. Pay close attention to what Doodle is telling you all. Its all great and true information
you da best :"D
As a retired veteran Geico is by far the best and cheapest insurance I've had for yrs and I'm a person that is constantly checking for better rates every 6 months. Used to have USAA & the insurance rates gradually went up (no claims filed), State Farm, Progressive, Liberty Mutual, Farmers, etc
Good video. I sat on every bike I could for months too. And watched crash videos to find out why motor cycling had such a bad record....
11. it's addictive, I suffer withdrawals if I don't ride 2-3 times a week
I live in Wyoming, and I am sad it's winter now.
My problem is like you say the basic course doesn't really train you much and I need to practice. Your videos have inspired me to practice, especially when it comes to u-turns. I am terrible at them and I realized after watching one of your videos the main problem is I either don't turn my head or turn it far enough and my u-turns are very unstable and super slow because I'm not comfortable. And right u-turns I can not so at all. I need to overcome the block that's keeping me from making right u-turns. I've been riding since 2007 and have some work to do.
I know the feeling!! That sounds like my u turns before I started these 100 u turn challenges less than a year ago
High side ( or right side) u-turns suck!! 😂 it’s such an unnatural feeling to have that lean and turn. They are for sure, my least favorite to do. I do them, but not nearly enough… food for thought… guess I’ll make an effort on high side maneuvering for the next few weeks… and then. Add that to my normal practice.
Riding for 16 years and can't U turn?? Wow
@slimfit767 what do you mean wow? I don't ride that often and right u-turns are not something I do that often so I'm that so proficient or comfortable doing them. Don't judge. When you don't ride often you're not as comfortable doing certain skills on a bike.
Male, 5'4" with a 26 3/4" inseam, I have a R1200 GS lowered 1" with seat in low position that I can get a toe down, a 790 adv with seat concepts low seat, again a toe down, and a 450L, now thats a sight to see haha. I can slide mostly off the seat and get a better foot hold but then I loose the rear brake and peg.
The tiny hands get me every time! 🤣
Hi Doodle, love your channel. Very inspirational to see your ferocious motorcycle learning journey!
Im 50 and just starting to learn. Given what you know now what principles would you use to decide upon a first big bike ? My end goal is to be proficient enough to ride a larger sports tourer.
My first thought was to buy a tall but light adv bike to learn on
Been riding a lont time over 500000 miles never stop learning. Excellent vidro
whoaaaa
I love that you throwed up a picture of the Yamaha TW200 when you showed dual sports. I have one of those.
I have to admire your adoption of riding heavy bikes. I like tall but not heavy. Even flat footed (which is no help in my brain) I have just never gotten comfortable with anything approaching 650 lbs. I have ridden a few HD touring and Goldwings but just am not comfortable when it's time to stop. I am average height and size for a 53 year old male. So kudos to you!
I bought my first bike on December 1st. 23 scrambler xc $14,000 otd. MSRP with that paint was 15.5
Im thinking on either the Multistrada or GS. I havent rode since 2007 but Im missing it now with more free time.
Watching this reminded me that I need to change the oil on my daily rider... thank you!
LOL!
I’m impressed doodle. You have matured so much. And your knowledge about riding has improved exponentially. Oh by the way I am a Latino. And to see a Latina represent woman and our Latino people is an honor. Keep up the good work.
getting my first street legal bike very soon! (ninja 400). Started with a crf125 and i am very excited to finally get my license and hit the road! Thank you for all your tips; I'm hoping to one day upgrade to a tiger 900 or a tiger sport 850 once I get more comfortable with something smaller and want to expand my horizons to adv biking.
I've learned so much from young lady. Keep it up! Don't stop being genuine. Btw luv the curls! On that note... The title of this video is supposed to be about buying your first bike and I feel like half of it is about riding instruction. 🤔
Another stellar video. I really appreciate the emphasis on continuing classes and practicing skills.
Great info without sounding preachy.
I love it! your promoting safe and smart riding.
Perfect timing,I've been thinking about getting back in the game this spring. Thanks for the tips and video.
When will we see the dirt bike videos ? I am anxious to see you learning the joys of Doing It In The Dirt ( a saying from the 70s ).
Bravo Doodle always has great content information and bike riding skills blessings
thank u for your info and sharing your experiences! 5footer ride a cbr
In the dirt is the best way to become one with the motorcycle it also helps to have ridden a bicycle.
New look curly looks good 😊 happy Trails rubber side down 😊
Dairyland was my first, back in the early 80s (yes, I am old), and once GEICO was cheaper than the rest, then magically, overnight (no accidents/no speeding tickets) my rates seemed to take a huge jump... I moved on to another insurance company, it is probably time to revisit Dairyland....
omg YES plz for the love of your wallet just get yourself some free quotes
Always good, always helpful. Thank you!
I've been waiting so long for you to make a video like this🎉😅
The way I learned to ride was my dad pushed me a Suzuki GT185 in a parking lot. Doing slow turns and figure 8's you learn to keep your balance real quick. I was 17, 6'2" and 220lbs
OMG
Solid word here, thank you Doodle!
It’s a lot harder these days to find people willing to move much on prices sadly. But it’s still a good idea to use the tools and make sure you are not getting screwed.
I do think it’s worth it to pay a little bit more from a local dealer you know will back you up if something goes wrong over driving a few hours to save a few hundred.
Also you don’t have to be short to have issues with flat footing a bike, I am average height but I can’t flat foot my Ninja because of the much wider seat I added. It doesn’t take long at all to get used to it.
Also fully on board with just paying someone to do the maintenance for you. It’s way better than half assing it or putting it off if you are the type not to keep up with it.
I waited until I was 40 to learn to ride a motorcycle. I agree that you need to sit on as many bikes as possible, I found that I didn't really like cruisers, Sport bikes just didn't fit my style, now standard bikes dual sport bikes and adventure bikes really check all the boxes. I ended up with a Royal Enfield Interceptor, and occasionally I'll ride my friends 2 stroke Yamaha DT 175 from 1980. I'm 6'3 but have a short inseam (yay scottish heritage) so some of the bikes even though I'm tall feel a bit tall for me (for now)
Are you going try honda xl750r Transalp, a little lower than the tiger, really well balanced, Thanks for all your great videos, and special videos about first people of America, best wishes,enjoy your riding
Europe does have a much more extensive course to get your license than here. Ive seen a lot of people say that.
I found it funny when I looked into what if I wanted to go over there and ride....
US riders license is accepted as is.Some countries require this thing that translates your license but no additional training required
This is the best video you’ve ever done.
Carolyn, the baby hands are so funny. And the motorcycle stuff is awesome too 😅.
I love Dairyland you get the credit for me finding them.
In victoria Australia they only teach one foot and never even mention flat foot.
Kelly Black Book for Motorcycles. I've purchased, owned, ridden and sold over 50 motorcycles in the last 17 years. My latest purchase is a new Harley-Davidson Road Glide 117 ST Fast Johnnie. My experience is no sales person will discuss the Kelly Blue or Black book with you because they don't want to hear that from a customer. I've had them tell me the books are off. Well, yes, the books are always off against the buyer in their minds. LOL. So, your best bet is to find a really honest dealer, buy from them, get close enough that they know you trust them and they trust you and you will be able to name your price. I literally did that for many years, I would go in, tell them I was serious about buying and I would name my price. Always did well but in buying new, used (or preowned as they like to say it) and when trading in. I've done many deals. One was a brand new BMW Adventure, a 2018 I ordered in and in less than a year I returned and traded it for two Honda Monkey's! No kidding. A Yellow Banana (wish I had kept that one) and a Red one. Traded them back to the dealer a bit later and did some other deal. I'm famous for buying and selling. My insurance guy thinks I'm "dealing" but I'm not, I'm just trying to catch up as I didn't get started riding until I was 46 years old. Most dealers who are really good will help you find the right machine for you. They really will. I've not found too many that I didn't trust. Harley's are great reliable machines for both riding around your town and long distance and they have an amazing national dealer network for service as you travel. Love HD. BMW but honestly they do not have the network for traveling across country in my way of thinking. The brands of Suzuki, Honda and Yamaha are really good for many reasons and do have a pretty good national dealer network. It always depends on what riding you are going to be doing but Doodle very few ever know what kind of riding they want to do until they get into this wonderful sport. Ride on!
You can safely lower any bike down to 3 in getting lowering links and having it professionally done. From my research. I have not wrote a bike since I was a teenager but I have recently gotten back into it. And I'm short lol I'm 5'6 and on a good day.
Good tips for people wanting to get their bike.
As a 5'4" guy who rides a standard height 700 lbs Kawasaki Concours 15 techniques for short riders. Not ashamed to admit Jocelyne Snow convinced me not NOT lower my bike. One foot down at stops is the best skill ever.
Sit on a Can Am Spyder & see if you can test drive. You never have to worry about tipping over and it has a good size frunk & saddlebags
I love your videos. I am 5’1” at best but with my 2 inch healed boots it really helps. I am looking to buy my first bike here in Atlanta after I take my first MSF course in early January. I keep looking at Iron 883. However, my husband does not like buying used. Nightster is not an iron 883. I am stuck on Harley. I want to be straight up because of my back. I really want my first to be Harley too. Thoughts?
My first motorcycle I got from a junk yard because Its my hobby and I like working old bikes! I got 1967 Harley Sprint and fix it up and drive back it back & forth to school in West High in Iowa 1973 I was 13yrs old then and up to 1979 and I stop because I join US Navy! Mrs. Doodie 🌹
Wow! That sounds awesome, and thank you for your service
@@DoodleOnAMotorcycle Thanks!!
Nice, great advice.
Love ya videos Doodle.
This is a good piece! Do you have a video before you got your first bike and your process of getting what you got? Second, the Rev it Jacket and pants what is the male equivalent I would like to check it out. Also why did you select Rev it over other brands if you do not mind me asking. Thanks
If I only rode bikes I can flat-foot, I would not have enjoyed most of the bikes that I have over the years.
I always read the Owner's Manual for each bike I buy, and I often buy the optional Service Manual and read that, too.
I'm surprised to hear you have had bad luck with Geico. Mines like $97 a year for liability on my VStrom.
When I learned I owned a scooter and my first real motorcycle was a Honda Rebel 250, old, and cheap. I had that for about a year and took it step by step. Ride at night. Ride in the rain. Ride at night in the rain. Have a close call or two. Just like skateboarding. Take it one step at a time. There are old pilots and there are bold pilots. But there are no old, bold pilots.
IMO it's worth it to note that inseam matters much more than height in terms of getting feet down... people with long torsos will naturally have a shorter inseam regardless of their height. Theoretically you could be 6'4" and have a 27" inseam and still struggle with taller bikes. That being said I'm 100 percent in agreement that you can ride any bike regardless of inseam if you have the right techniques
Good Vid Doodle...cheers
I love the doggie butt face at 5:36 into the video. That's great. Would you do a video on riding 2 wheelers with canines. i can suggest a starting place with Baron Von Red Dog and John Miller. Miller, an electronics engineer once employed at Jet Propulsion Laboratory. In the book "Flat Out" by Jerry Hatfield , There is a page devoted to the duo. In that page, it says Miller did some sort of work for Jay Leno. Leno would be another step in your "motorsycle" journey.
The opposite for me. At 6'7" I have tall people problems, like being too cramped on a Goldwing.
OMG
🤣😂@@DoodleOnAMotorcycle
Same here Doogie
Msf beginners course is basically a course to learn how to safely turn your bike off and on and move it from the garage to the street so you can safely practice and start building real skill. It’s bare minimum. Which is kind of a shame but beats nothing.
I got my first bike this fall and I did the exact same thing and read my manual every night.
good information
Im tall enough to flat foot any bike, but would never do so. Right foot on brake, bike in 1st gear no matter where I stop. Left foot is the only thing holding up the bike at a stop.
That just feels uncomfortable
You should mention any new riders to ride your own ride. People want to go out on group rides and the other riders often ride too fast for them
My insurance company does not accept certificates for riders courses. But only paying 27.34 cents a month.
Many salespeople I’ve come across don’t even ride motorcycles. Seems improbable but it’s true.
Hi Doodle! Have you checked your brake light today? 😁