Basic Vehicle Control
Good riders control the motorcycle smoothly and precisely. Mastering the throttle, clutch, brakes, and gears, and learning the friction zone, gives you the foundation for every other skill.
The Primary Controls
On a typical motorcycle, the right hand operates the throttle and the front brake lever, and the right foot operates the rear brake pedal. The left hand works the clutch lever, and the left foot works the gear shift lever. The front brake provides most of your stopping power, so for the shortest controlled stop you should use both brakes together every time. Keep your hands and feet positioned so you can reach each control without looking.
The Friction Zone
The friction zone is the range of clutch-lever travel where the clutch begins to transmit engine power to the rear wheel. Learning to feel and hold this zone lets you start smoothly, creep at very low speeds, and balance the motorcycle. A smooth start comes from easing the clutch out through the friction zone while gradually rolling on the throttle. Practicing clutch control at slow speeds builds the fine coordination that low-speed maneuvers require.
Body Position and Posture
Sit so you can operate all the controls easily, with your back fairly straight and your arms relaxed and slightly bent. Keep your knees against the tank and the balls of your feet on the footpegs, not dragging on the ground while moving. A relaxed grip on the handlebars lets you steer precisely, while squeezing too tightly increases fatigue and reduces control. Good posture keeps you balanced and ready to respond.
Smooth Starts, Shifts, and Stops
Start moving by easing out the clutch and adding throttle together so the motorcycle pulls away without lurching. Shift gears smoothly by rolling off the throttle, squeezing the clutch, changing gears, then easing the clutch back out. To stop, apply both brakes smoothly and squeeze progressively as you slow, avoiding a sudden grab that could lock a wheel. Downshift to first gear as you come to a stop so you are ready to move again.