Basic Motorcycle Driving Skills
- 1/35When riding at walking speed
Low-speed balance is achieved by fine control of the clutch and throttle while applying light rear brake.
If making a U-turn in traffic
Perform slow U-turns using counterbalance technique and rear brake drag to stay stable.
When checking surroundings
Always check mirrors and perform a shoulder check lifesaver before lane changes or turns.
While riding in traffic
Stay centered in your lane or adjust position for maximum visibility, avoiding blind spots.
When cornering in traffic
Fix your eyes through the corner the bike follows your visual target, improving accuracy and safety.
If you are starting from a stop
Gradual clutch release prevents stalling and ensures a controlled start, especially during uphill or heavy traffic conditions.
When changing gears
Riders should upshift or downshift based on road speed and engine RPM to maintain stability and control.
When braking in normal conditions
Apply front and rear brakes together for balanced stopping. Avoid harsh braking unless necessary.
If an emergency stop is needed
Practice emergency braking by progressively applying both brakes. ABS, if available, helps prevent wheel lock.
When turning into a corner
Reduce speed before the turn, look through the curve, and lean with the bike to maintain balance.
Before turning or changing lanes
A final shoulder check helps detect vehicles in blind spots and prevents side collisions.
When approaching a hazard
Reduce speed, assess the situation, and prepare for evasive action if necessary.
When choosing a lane position
Position yourself where other road users can see you, avoiding gutter edges and blind zones.
During swerving practice
Swerve safely, keep steady throttle, eyes up, and steer with counterpressure.
In wet or slippery conditions
Avoid sudden inputs, apply brakes gently, and keep upright as much as possible to prevent slides.
When preparing for emergency stops
Emergency braking should be done with both brakes evenly, maintaining control and balance.
If riding with a passenger
Extra weight affects stopping distance and balance. Brake earlier and control throttle and clutch carefully.
When stopping at traffic lights
Hold the clutch with the bike in first gear and cover brakes, ready to move off safely.
While riding in city traffic
Watch for pedestrians, sudden stops, and doors opening. Use rear brake for low-speed control.
If braking in a corner
Try to complete braking before the turn. If needed, brake gently while keeping the bike stable and upright.
When riding on gravel or loose surfaces
Avoid sudden turns or acceleration. Maintain a steady pace and avoid locking wheels on slippery ground.
If taking a hill start
Apply rear brake while finding the friction point on the clutch, then release brake and add throttle smoothly.
When using indicators
Always indicate well in advance and cancel indicators after turning to avoid misleading others.
While filtering through traffic
Ride slowly between lanes, watch for sudden lane changes, and be ready to stop quickly.
When entering roundabouts
Observe traffic, use indicators, and maintain your lane throughout the roundabout for safety.
When approaching junctions
Slow down early, check both ways, and prepare to stop. Use rear brake gently if needed for stability.
If your bike has ABS
ABS prevents wheel lock during hard braking and especially useful in emergency stops or wet conditions.
When riding on narrow roads
Keep a central position to avoid roadside hazards and to remain visible to other vehicles.
During controlled stop practice
Start braking gently and increase pressure smoothly to stop safely without skidding.
Before riding off from a stop
Use mirrors and perform a lifesaver glance before moving off to ensure it safe to proceed.
When approaching pedestrian crossings
Watch for people crossing, reduce speed early, and cover the brakes for a quick and smooth stop.
During CBT or training
CBT includes slow riding, emergency stops, clutch control, turning, and safe observation techniques.
When doing figure-8 or slalom
Look where you want to go, keep smooth clutch and throttle control, and maintain balance through turns.
Before riding with a full license
Riders must pass motorcycle theory and Module 1 off-road and Module 2 on-road practical tests.
To ride safely every day
Regular practice of low-speed control, observation, and hazard response helps maintain and improve rider safety.