Why do motorcycle riders keep running off the road? Is it age?
In this video, I'll go over the most common motorcycle crash that involves just the rider. Failure to negotiate a curve. I'll tell you why it happens and how to avoid it.
Picture file from motorcyclist posted online via Killboy.com - motorcycle crashes.
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I'm 74 years old and have been riding for years. But, you are never too old to learn more riding techniques.
Sir, may I ask, and with due respect, at 74 years old, what you are doing to stay so sexy?
Not age. It’s incompetence. It’s the old counter steering bugaboo. Going too fast, turn tightens up more than expected, adrenalin hits, and they forget about counter steering. They try to turn away from the danger as if riding a tricycle or driving a car. And, that simply doesn’t work.
Push to turn. Push with the right hand, turn right. Turn gets tighter, push harder. Push with left hand, turn left.
Don't think so.
@@CC-xu2yz With due respect, what do you think, then?
I think the other half of it is the bike they first buy and ride. Often they get these behemoths (800-900 lbs bikes) which are expensive as all hell and utterly untouched beauties that a single mark will stand out. Under those conditions it takes a lot to be comfortable leaning the bike.
It's not just that, as much as the tendency of the motorcycle to "stand up" during a sudden adjustment. THATS what affects the line, and ends up resulting in someone in going off the road.
Well done, I agree 100%. Been riding for 52 years in 7 countries. My rule has always been essentially the same as Jerry's "Head & Eyes" rule: "Look where you want to go." Saved my life when an oncoming motorcyclist missed his turn in a right (for him) curve and headed straight for me. I stubbornly looked at the remaining free space and steered the bike through that. I hope he learned something from it.
The head & eyes rule, combined with counter-steering also saved me a few times. That same time I found out that my motorcycles limit is way beyond my personal limit (drive a Honda CBR1100XX, Ducati M750).
I ride bikes and I fly paragliders. The best lesson I got as a beginner flyer is “if you look at the tree you will hit the tree”. We’re not, as a species, any smarter than that. Glad you were ok.
@@903lew Exactly right. Don't look at the problem, look at the solution.
I must say; I've NEVER heard anyone explain this simple error more precisely. New riders and experienced riders can gain SO much from this video. Very nicely done. Thank oyu.
I always tell people that if they think loud pipes save lives, imagine what actually learning to ride could do for them
You seem to be a bit confused. This video is about rider skills/failures. Loud pipes are a thing so car drivers may not see but hear you (and run you over). Also for the vid: I dont get it why people are so amazed by the tips. Thats basic stuff you learn in driving school in germany.
Practice skills and control...and listening to good vids like this that not only teach that....but also teach to think and analyse
@@mosuke5123 I don’t think you understand, there are (in some areas of the USA) American motorcycle licence holders who have never had to attend a single lesson/class, pass any test to ride a motorcycle. They apply for a licence and buy a 1000cc bike. They don’t have any skills, no training - nothing! The unskilled riders just blame other road users for not hearing their loud exhaust when in reality it’s the riders fault for not realising/knowing that a lot of accidents can be avoided by having the proper road craft skills to avoid the scenarios in the first place.
@@TGMowatt Let me guess: Republican areas because obligatory driving school would be communism, the end of american freedom and the work of the demonrats?
@@steffenwurster352 thats some good bait, nothing more
I'm 69 and have been riding since I was 14. You should never stop learning.
Pretty close to my specs. I agree you should always be open to improving your skills.
I'm still learning how to 69
But there comes a time to recognise when you have to stop.
@@khankrum1 just go shorter distance. I used to go halfway across the country.
I hear you, brother, been riding since 12, ( first bike was a little indian mini bike ) now 63...
THANK YOU!!! I used this technique the very next day, what a difference it made. Not only was it a feeling of more control but I could actually accelerate and really enjoy the bend. What a great riding tip.
jerrys one of the only channels on youtube that speaks with an appropriate level of urgency and firmness. It's easy to disregard advice when it's delivered in a wishy washy way.
The fact that people hit mailboxes, trees, telephone poles etc. when there's nothing for 100 ft on either side is proof the bike goes where you look.
Target fixation. If you don't want to hit it, don't look at it.
Actually it proves that they misjudged their ability to change that placement in time.
@Mighty Mike That helps but I have seen all too many riders at what looks like moderate speeds simply NOT turning and plowing straight into something. You almost never see their heads turn away from the thing they are about to hit.
@@i4004 - Agree with almost all you said, but looking where you want to go helps - particularly for those with limited skill and/or experience. Turning your head helps not only focusing your mind, but turns your shoulders - making you counter steer and even contributes to rotating your hips which helps shift your body. Of course where you want your weight depends on speed and turning radius. Leaning the bike turns the front wheel, helping set turn radius. Weight has to balance against centrifugal force. Sharp curve at low speed - hang off on outside of curve, at high speed hand off the inside.
Thats primary dirt bike lesson...you will go where you will look...basic human nature but with practice you can learn the way around it...ridding bike is no fun if all you ever see is the line you rode.
As a UK rider of a larger cruier we have nothing but roundabouts, long curves and narrow tight corners,. This is so true and a brilliant video. I see so many bikes in hedges and ditches
I started riding a motorcycle 9 years ago when I was 47. I found your channel very soon afterwards and have been a follower since. Using your CD and KZhead videos, my skills have greatly improved. Countless hours have been spent practicing your drills, and your street smart tips have become second nature. I ride a dual sport bike and always alone, yet feel entirely confident doing so. I've never laid the bike down and had only one brief off-road excursion because of complacency - lesson learned. There have been a few high pucker factor events along the way, but the skills you've taught me have kept disaster at bay. You're a credit to your profession. Thank you, Jerry.
That's awesome to have started so late in life, and to not have crashed, super well done and congrats 🙂
Years of riding cruisers, Viragos and Vulcans. Years of "look through the turn". One trip through the mountains of West Virginia I am rolling through a climbing left hand curve with a rock wall to my right, drop off to the valley on my left. Eyes on the curve, all going well and for just an INSTANT I glanced at that rock wall. Bike obediently falls out of the arc I had planned and started drifting to the wall. Caught my mistake immediately and made the turn... by probably less than a foot to the edge. Took a bit for my butt to let go of the seat but that effect is absolutely real.
Something people dont talk about...you have to turn left to go right...dont sound right does it? Drive down the street, take your left hand off the bar...push the right bar foward..that turns the front wheel left..witch way does the bike go. Get way off line in a corn haser the time it takes for you to get back on you line in not enough..bike is going left and you need to go right and right now...push on the right bar. it dont matter where you are sitting and you could be leaning in the wrong direction...the bike will turn. People need to learn rear brake...it has 4 functions...they are kinda handy for turning on the brake light...usecit a lot will also use up your rear tire...a little pressure will help set the bike right before grab a hand full of front to actually slow the bike down...and worst case scenario ...everything has taken a big shit...something is in front of you...no way around it..that automatic calculator in you brain tells your you best stopping point is a ways past whats in front of you...what do you do? You got brakes, use them...this is one of those times when locking up the brakes has a purpose. Burn off as much speed as you can..locked up rear wheel will put the bike down..gtf OFF...road rash is nothing compared to what happens when you hit something that doesnt move at 30 mph..front brakes are fun...i used to ride with squids...fun was betting who could put down the longest skid with the front brake...50ft is a decent number.
@@blackbirdxx928 WRONG, and what a cluster-f*ck of bad instructions. At least learn the proper term, it's called "countersteering". Your description is very confusing and a lot of people won't understand it. Here's what you should have said... ...To turn left, push the left hand grip forward. To turn right, push the right hand grip forward. It doesn't need to get anymore complicated than that. And WTF are you doing talking about locking up the front brake??? NEVER do that as front skids are too hard to control. The front brake should be squeezed gradually and not locked. And intentionally laying the bike down is a myth and WRONG. Bikes stop quicker on rubber tires, not sliding on the metal crash bars or side of the gas tank. Not to mention, tearing off your leg in a low side crash is never a good idea. And if one has ABS brakes then your advice is even more laughable. Honestly, you have no idea what you're doing so stop giving stupid and dangerous advice. Your post was made 8 months ago; I'll be surprised if you're still alive. And if you are alive then you need to work on developing some proper riding skills before you do kill yourself.
Jerry ,please never get tired of repeating yourself over and over , I would imagine by now you have saved lives and serious injury .
I agree, totally 100%, by doing this is allows it to sink in what you're being taught....
Agree too. Repeat the message reinforces the message. Nothing has changed, the guidance remains good. So keep doing it. Thanks Jerry.
I agree with you 100%
Back in the 1960's I was a British Police Traffic officer riding Triumph 650 motorcycles and the holder of a grade one Police advanced certificate. What you say in your video about riding around curves is exactly what I was taught. You bring it all back to me listening to your instructions. I am now 78 yrs of age having retired 30 yrs ago although I own a motorcycle my health doesn't allow me to ride it. Another thing I remember being taught is that if you fixate on a tree or piece of street furniture while riding around a curve your are guaranteed to hit it.
Tommy Robinson for Prime Minister!
A friend bought a Sporty and was never on a bike. He took a riding course and rode a 250cc bike the class provided, for his license. Another friend and I took him to a church parking lot and put out cones. We both demonstrated on our bikes, through the cones. We both impressed on him, the bike goes where you are looking. His girlfriend pulled into the lot while he was practicing. He crashed into her car! Not looking where he was supposed to be going cost him $700.
Dang lol hope he's ok
I don't ride, but for some reason, I can't stop watching these videos. I just enjoy watching a pro who is so competent at their discipline.
Same. I might end up buying a bike because of this guy!
I've been riding a motorcycle for over 40 years, dirt bikes street bikes, etc. Before that, I rode BMX bicycles day in and day out like every other kid. I consider myself a safe and very good rider yet, I have never been more humbled than I was when I ordered the new Ride Like A Pro video and started practicing these exercises. The subtle nuances of weaving the bike, throttle, clutch control, and doing the exact opposite of what your mind is telling you to do is quite a sobering experience. I still have a ways to go however, practicing these skills increases my confidence level. Also, it is quite exhilarating when you finally, "Get it" during an exercise. Thanks, Jerry and Donna for what you do for the motorcycle community and for showing us what practice can do for a rider new and old!
I was a cross country skier in my youth, and I was reading my Dirt Rider magazine one day at home, and they drew out how to not crash as often whilst riding off road (was my hobby when there wasn't snow). Look down the course, and where you are looking you will end up. I started practicing this on my skiing, and I didn't crash again till State two years later. Why'd I crash? I looked right over at these two beautiful girls that were cheering me on going up a hill, blam, wiped out right in front of them, but I remember how they looked at me! Like I was a dork. Awesome video as always.
I hope you got a phone number at least
Yup. I always remember ski lessons. Look where you want to go.
Great video , thanks ❤ Oh by the way I'm 75 yrs old myself. Never to old to learn 👌 this help me after 60+yrs on the bikes , Lost of different one but Harley Davidson is the best , no Doubt about it . This is a great well done video, I have never seen before
When I learned to move my head and eyes it was a game changer...thanks Jerry, you've made me a better rider
You're welcome, glad to help you Dean.
When I learned to do it without my head and eyes, it was even a BIGGER game changer... I do motogymkhana, i full lock looking all over... its really not hard to master it when you know how to ride... Rookies may need to turn their head... experienced riders shouldn't need to...I don't and I'm really not that experienced...
@@TroyC68 , I still turn my head so that the car behind me can see where I am going. It's safer and easier just to turn your head. I understand if you are wearing a full face helmet and it's heavy, you don't want to move your head but it's for everybody's safety that you turn your head and look where you want to go.
I as mentioned before recently got my licence back, and had to ride my eBike, I did the same thing, I've completed the Traffic Offenders Rehab Program, and learnt the hard way...got suspended for 4 mths, by the courts, but since riding my eBike (electric bicycle), I started changing my riding and driving habits, & they worked a treat, think I've saved myself and many other road users on the road, thank Jerry, you made me a better driver and rider. ...
Head and Balls
Jerry my brother, you have saved so many lives by the one thing you always stress. " look only where you want to go, NEVER LOOK AT WHAT YOU DONT WANT TO HIT OR WHERE YOU DONT WANT TO GO"!! God bless you for hammering this principle home!!😁🇺🇸
I love your videos! Even though I’ve been riding for about 15 years I still come back to your videos on a regular basis to review riding skills. I’ve also referred new riders to your videos and courses telling them: “this guy will save your life!”. Thanks.👍
Your videos have been HUGELY helpful for me. Although I took a class, it was 2.5 days and was a lot to remember. When I passed, I was relieved. But I honestly don’t think I should’ve passed. I couldn’t do the figure eights consistently. AND I especially did not retain how to take corners properly…until I watched your videos. It’s very helpful to me that you not only talk about what you’re teaching, you go out on the road and show and talk through exactly what you mean. We have a have a joke when someone doesn’t seem to understand something, “What, I gotta draw you a picture?” Haha! But, for me, and riding motorcycles, that would be a yes. So THANK YOU!!
WOW, watching the group go through the cones was so impressive
😆😆😆😆🤭yeah wow..............NOT
“100% money back guarantee” 😂🤣 Love it! This is the type of candor that everyone should express themselves with. Thank you for what you do!
Bought the "Ride Like a Pro Video" in the 90s. Glad to see you're still around.
Absolutely love these videos. I've been finding for 44 years and now I realize I'm not as good as I thought. Spot on teaching. Thank you for these tips. Looking forward to taking your class in N.C. asap.
This guy is fantastic! I’ve been a rider for years and I still watch his videos and always learn!
Thank you.
Never stop learning! Learning is life!
@@motorman857 i understand the concept of using your head and eyes ive ridden sports bikes for many years and have leaned so far that practically the whole tire is used. Now i am on a cruiser bike m109r which is quite a bit different and find myself scraping the pegs a lot and at times still need to lean more but the bike in my mind wont. My question is, is there a technique to use if you find yourself are too fast in the corner and are scraping pegs? Id like to go through the corner without slowing right down and hitting the break which causes the bike to stand u.
@@sensfan07 Yes. The technique is go in slower, look thru the turn, and roll on the throttle thru the turn. If you are having to brake in the middle of the turn, you are going in too fast.
@@motorman857 thanks guess i am too used to the handling of a sports bike where i can be aggressive in the corner and know the bike can lean hard.
Brother, you are Awesome! I have been riding for 50 years and I still enjoy and learn from your videos. I will never act as I know it all and ...refresher every day is the key, thanks MaC
If u were my dad I would take your keys. WAAY BETTA than being killed. U is too old to be riding. Not saying anything about yo car just yo bike playa .
Such great, life saving, advice! I must add that while I'm not a huge fan of large, cruiser motorcycles, preferring the adventure style, I watch in awe at the slow riding skills on display in your videos.
I am 57, had my MC endorsement since I was 18. About a month ago I went off the road at about 50mph. Been racking my brain trying to figure out what happened. It was a bit breezy, rear tire turned out to be in need of replacement, felt like I got into some loose gravel, etc... But I am thinking I may have stopped looking ahead and that combined with the other factors is what caused the accident. On the road is no place to loose focus. Whenever you can take advice from an experienced driver... DO IT! Nobody is beyond learning.
yes, do not ride if you cannot maintain total focus. you can "daydream" in a car and get away with it, but not on a motorcycle. check how you feel, physically and mentally, before you gear up and start up the bike. if you do not feel 100% physically or mentally, wait for another day to ride.
I’ve ridden some very twisty mountain roads in Vermont with a buddy. One time I had a back tire that was due for replacement. Started to break free on the curve, death turn it slid a little more. It wouldn’t allow me to use any rear brake. Got to the bottom of the mountain ok, but had to stop and catch my breath. What a ride.
About 30 years ago I went through a high speed collision avoidance course in a car. The instructor gave the same advice on head and eyes slightly differently. He told us to look ahead/aim to where you will be in 12 secs. Obviously that doesn't apply in corners but there you look as far around the corner as possible. The other thing was if you look at the object you are trying to avoid, you will hit it. Has stood me in good stead since. Keep up the good work work and thoroughly recommend this sort of tuition.
When I first started riding mountain bicycles in the late 80's, a more experienced friend of mine gave me the following advice, "Look where you want to go, not where you don't want to go." Damn good advice and HUGELY helpful in navigating rocky and root filled sections of trail.
Great video! I was an instructor for nearly 30 years teaching the very same points to thousands of students and you couldn't be more right about the head technique!
I used to be a rider back in the 1970s, but, not since. Motorcycle riders and school buses always get more than the usual distances, out of respect. Great vlog thanks for posting and sharing this with us.
Your info made me (after doing in wrong for 40ish years) so much more comfy and safe riding. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Thanks, you too!
There is a canyon road I frequent. I use it to practice turning techniques. More experienced riders will zip past me, but I stay within my abilities. Also, every time I come to a red light or stop sign, I practice my breaking, being cognizant of traffic. Even on my e-bike, I try to practice the master's techniques. On both, my balance, confidence and abilities have been steadily improving.
Your videos have helped me build up skills, confidence and safety in my riding. Thank you!
Absolutely true advice. got my licence here in the UK 6 months ago (at 68yrs old). during the riding through the cones exercise I was focusing on the cones so as not to hit them. Failed every time. Started to look at the spaces in between =100% success.
Hi Jerry . I’ve learned to ride ever since the first lockdown here in the U.K. , which was last March, and have passed my full bike test. It’s been absolutely brilliant, I work in the music business which is obviously on its arse these days and riding has helped keep me sane as my job has not gone well. Your videos have really helped with my riding and made the last year during Covid much more bearable. So thanks very much indeed , you’ve been a real help in many ways 🙏
Been riding for 49 years, and still learning on every ride. Thanks Jerry, stay safe.
A note here about counter-steering; when I took my oldest son's training wheels off his bicycle, he was 4 years old; and I was letting him ride down our sloped driveway toward our street... the first 2 or 3 times down as he approached the mailbox, WHAM! He'd turn right into it LOL! I finally convinced him to TRY to hit the mailbox; after the bike turned away and he missed it, I'll never forget that light bulb on smile as he turned around in the street and headed back!😂
These videos are giving me much greater confidence! Thank you!!! I have begun to practice them. You are helping save lives.
In horseback riding we say, "If you look down, that's where you'll go."
Good one ! I remember "looking down" from a nervous horse in my younger years. That hard Georgia clay felt like concrete when I hit it. I never repeated that lesson on a motorcycle.
Same with skiing / snowboarding, cycling...all of it. You need to look where you want to go.
I"m happy you're still doing this. Fighting my family to get on two wheels, hope it'll happen soon.
Back in the 1970s I lost control and wiped out my older brother’s Honda 350 trying to make a turn and I never knew why I lost control of the bike until today! Thank you 😊 for explaining it to me!
I road for years and finally took the motorcycle safety course. I learned SO much! How to brake in a curve (don't), instantaneous avoidance maneuvers that are counter intuitive, and much more. Well worth your while! 🥸
just came upon your channel, when my son wanted to learn to ride a bike, 1st thing to learn is to handle a bike at low speed. went to the local parking lot to practice, he dumped the bike several times, got discussted at me because i would not let him ride on the street until he mastered handling slowly. years latter he thank me told me it was the best thing i ever did for him.
Jerry, I watch a lot of your videos, thank goodness! I've only been riding my own Harley for a couple of years. Not to long ago, I was making a left hand turned and for some reason I forgot to use my rear break! However, I remembered to look where I wanted to go. My turn was perfect! I ended up exactly where I wanted to go. After the turn, I realized I had forgotten about my rear brake (I am 55 years old so give me a break! LOL) I was immediately proud of myself for making the turn and said out loud "whoohoo! That is how it is supposed to work!" I have not forgotten that day and what a valuable lesson I learned about myself and my Harley! Thank you so very much for posting your videos. They literally saved my life that day! Be safe out there my friend!
After riding Harley's for 46 years, I am still learning ever day. Thank you Sir! A+
So you have been riding Harley's for forty six years, oh boy are you a slow learner to put up with such shit machines. Go out and buy a real one and I do not mean yankie crap ( they have been building the same shit since 1903).
@@bobw7066 Hey! If you like how it makes you feel, ..........ride it! : )
@@bobw7066 Mr. Bob, Ever rode a real Machine, obviously not" HOGS RULE" USA" PROUD !! #1 CRUISER. I MUST SAY, BMW'S ARE A SMOOTH BREED AS WELL" ALONG WITH TRIUMPH, 'OL BSA'S TOO. PREFERENCE I SUPPOSE 😎😳...
Really good video. Riding trials bikes for many years in my younger days, you turn the bars in the direction you want to go. Took me a long tome to figure out why I couldnt keep up with my mates. Until I read about countersteering, I couldnt understand how they could go around corners so fast and so smoothly. It transformed my days out. Then I found out about target fixation, which is what I think your video is showing the rider. After watching your video I now really understand the implications. I'll be trying it out this summer on quieter roads.
Learned how to ride 40 years ago in the twisties of the Black Forrest, near the town of Oppenau in Germany. My instructor was notorious for chasing his pupils up an down the mountain roads and stubbornly and permanently insisting on looking all the way into the turns. To make it second nature. I don't know how many time this habit has saved me during the last decades. Was the most valuable instruction, that I ever got.
Love your videos. I practice your techniques all the time. I've been riding my whole life and still learn something new and useful every time I watch your videos and it has improved my riding 110%. Thank you so much for sharing with us.
Great to hear!
I've been riding a long time and this is the absolute best advice I've ever heard. I've been using it ever since I found your videos and it's amazing how much control it give me.
Glad to help!
I hadn't ridden in over 32 years. I found your videos the evening before I brought my Harley 883 home. I'm glad I did. Just using this in my parking lot practice really helped. Thank you.
I learned long ago when first starting to ride, look ahead at where you are going not at where you are now on the road. Basically what Jerry is saying just in my words!!
This is good sound advice and is also given to new riders on this side of the pond too. If you look where you're going you'll go where you're looking. Looking at something you're going to hit means you'll hit it. Otherwise known as target fixation.
Now i understand what is a target fixation . Motocycle you must look the direction you want to go it is similar to aircraft pilot
You're voice and message is filled with wisdom and patience borne from years of experience. Great videos. Ride like you want to arrive back home in one piece.
I started riding at a young age, about 15 yrs old now 67, and raced some and the concept Jerry teaches to look ahead into the curve came naturally to me but I took a riding course when I was in my 50s where they taught this method and I never realized that I had been doing this all those years. When your racing it is absolutely critical to look ahead where you plan to be in next few micro seconds. Everything is happening so fast you cannot afford not to.
Thanks Motorman. Reinforcing the requirement to master the essential skills to improve your riding ability - at ANY age.
Absolutely!
You go where you look.. was my first lesson my father taught me when i started riding Mopeds when i was 17.. been using that eversince.. When riding in the mountains it is even more important as it enables you to look further into curves (always start a turn as wide as possible for maximum view through a corner)
I hope you and others read this because EXACTLY THIS HAPPENED TO ME and as of right now I have to type with 1 hand. I am 46 years old and while I have ridden intermittently over the years it has been a few years. I recently had the opportunity to buy the perfect Street Glide so I jumped at it because I always wanted one. I felt that my previous experience would serve me well and after a while I would be right back to where I was, no problem. Made it through a few years of daily riding with little to no issues. No dumps, no curbs, no accidents, just a few close calls. 2 weeks and 500 miles after buying the bike, I put her into a curb ( low speed) in a roundabout, scraping up my bike (no paint) and shattering my left wrist. While I am off from work healing and watching a lot of tv and ordering parts, I came across your channel. One of your other videos you also mentioned failing to negotiate a turn, not turning your head or looking where you want your bike to go etc. As I was watching your video I knew that was exactly what I did. In hindsight, I know that I wasn't going too fast for the turn, the bike has good tires and traction and performed flawlessly. I went into the roundabout and something in my brain knew I wasn't going to get out of it. I NOW know that I was looking exactly where I hit. Once I am healed and I can hold my clutch in again, I will be taking a riding course or two and doing a lot of parking lot practice. NOW I know that I'm not as experienced as I thought I was and my crash bars, bag guards, ruined pipes, and shattered wrist prove it. Broken bones and surgeries HURT. (metal plate and 9 screws) I wish I saw these videos BEFOREHAND. I believe if I had, I would have practiced more or at least paid better attention to where my head is pointed as I ride and drive very defensively anyways. I could have avoided all of this. it has been a very painful lesson. You are doing the community a great service with these videos. Thanks
Been a great help to me, just back to riding after many years and found myself holding the bars so tight you'd think I was choking a mountain lion, watching and listening to this guy has really helped me to relax and start enjoying, many thanks bro
I was away from it for 20 + and am back dbl now . Lol . 5 bikes , the son rides , all sweet enjoying the the company riding
Jerry I`ve been riding since 69 & I still learn from you , Thank you for your instructions.
I don't even ride motorcycles. Yet I found this video quite informative and enjoyable to watch. The information in this video can be applied to nearly all vehicles and drivers, not just motorcycles and riders. Good stuff! Liked and subbed!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I am a graduate from the Harley Davidson Police Motorcycle Operator course. Even after being in the military, that was the toughest thing I’ve ever done. About 8 out of 30 failed. I can guarantee you this…most people on motorcycles do not know how to drive them. Most of them are scared to tilt the bike on curves, etc. They think the bike is going to fall over.
I took my initial training with the FL. Troopers. I was the only deputy in the class but I knew a lot of the guys. I was sent there on a Honda Ace Tourer fitted at the dealership with the police gear. The Honda had a longer wheelbase and rake than the Harleys. I had 4 inches of error room in the exercises where the Harleys had 2 or 3 feet to screw up and still make it. It made me a better rider since my wheel placement had to be perfect. We had almost a third of the class wash out.
Each of your videos is so easy to follow and understand I hope viewers realize they have to put in time and focus.
During the Dragon vid, it was amusing to see the follower fixate on the crasher and FOLLOW them off the road. That would be scary to wreck and then your buddy runs you over.
I was rising a dirt bike in a pasture and I was watching my brother wreck into the side of a cow bike went under the cow as I watched that happen I rode right off a 12ft cliff and barb wire thank God I was wearing a helmet ride safe
Always great to freshen up on the 3 techniques. Thank you.
All of this, is 1000 percent true. Nice job, Jerry. I choose to attend advanced skills riding classes, regularly. Been riding for 55 years. I never fail to learn, or be reminded of something that is essential, for safe and precise riding skills. And I practice a lot. Enjoy every minute of improving my techniques, and learning. I find, when out riding with the masses, that the skill, and competance of the general community, is lacking. Many times, have had some dude pass me...only to ride up on a crash scene, soon after.
Inexperienced riders! You can be older, ridden a motorcycle for years, and still be Inexperienced. Countersteering, trail braking, and target fixation are all learned. Target fixation happens in a panic. Countersteering and trail braking take practice, practice, practice. My brother was a rider for 50 years, and still went off road at approximately 65mph. Died at scene, then revived 3 times. He is a broken man, and I was behind him that day and witnessed the whole thing. Always practice your skills, never rest.
I LOVED THE VIDEO. I AM GOING ON 89 YEARS OLD AND I WOULD STILL LOVE TO RIDE AN ULTRA CLASSIC HARLEY AGAIN . I RODE ONE FOR ABOUT 50 YEARS WITH OUT HAVING A WRECK, HOWEVER PEOPLE NOW ARE CRAZY, THEY TALK ON THE PHONE WHILE DRIVING, THEY TAKE DRUGS AND DRIVE, TRY PUTTING ON MAKEUP AND LOOKING IN THE MIRROR WHILE DRIVING.. I love the motorcycles but to live a little longer I don't want to be on the road with all those nuts . IN MY OPINION IF A PERSON IS CAUGHT DRIVING WHILE DRUNK OR ON DRUGS THEY SHOULDN'T BE ABLE TO DRIVE FOR A YEAR. IF CAUGHT THE SECOND TIME THEY SHOULD LOSE THEIR DRIVERS LICENSE. THEY ARE JUST AS DANGEROUS AS A MAN WITH A GUN OR WORST.
One of the best things I learned in my state's motorcycle training course is to always look as far ahead into a curve as you can see. Your body will automatically make the proper adjustments. Never look down at the road in a curve.
Learn to lean Ed and u be fine playa.
I ride a pcx 150 and these videos have helped me so much. These videos are for everyone no matter what size bike you ride.
Thank you for all you do to keep motorcycling fun and safe 🙏
Thanks for reinforcing things that you've taught in the past that always need to be restated.
He should rename this channel "turn your head and eyes, look through the turn."
@@ditchranemanable I'll stop saying it when riders stop running off the road. 3 dead in the past month just in my county, from NOT using their head and eyes.
@@motorman857 I don't want you to change it. I was joking. I ran a riding mentorship program for a while. You can't say it enough.
@@ditchranemanable No offense taken.
@@motorman857 WOW. That's sad, very sad... smh
About a year ago I was on my bike when the car in front of me suddenly changed lanes. This revealed a pile of lumber in the street in my path. A car on my left prevented me from a quick lane change. At first I looked at what I was about to hit when a voice in my head screamed, Look for the safe path!!! I focused on a path that avoided all the lumber. This path required several quick moves to avoid the problem. After I passed this mess I realized that had I looked at what I was about to hit, I would have hit it, but because I had focused on the safe path, I was able to avoid hitting anything.
Good job well done. Glad you avoided a disaster. Ride safe.
Yes, glad you avoided a very bad day! Having taken several MSF courses (they're fun as well as life-saving), you had two choices- emergency stop or swerve. I try not to be along side of another vehicle so I always have an alternate path. I also try to make sure no one is tailgating so I can use an emergency stop and not get pancaked. Ride safe, ride ahead, anticipate everything!
Jerry, thank you! I have been riding since 1986, and at some point, I think I just settled into a comfortable routine with my turns/ cornering. BUT, after watching this video, I revisited visualization all the way through each turn, letting the bike follow my eyes, and it has made a HUGE difference and tightened my cornering. Thank you!
You're welcome but I'm just doing my job.
glad u mentioned skiing because when I really advanced as a kid is when someone told me DONT LOOK DOWN LOOK AHEAD & WHERE YOU WANT TO GO! Really applies in moto
I've not ridden in years, this is a great video.
It’s pretty freaking scary to realize that so many people are riding around on their 900lb baggers and cannot drive them!
How on earth can they ever pass the exams? You need the theory exam, you need the "parking lot" exam, you need the riding test. Each beginner biker has learnt ALL the basic skills. Problem is, you should buy a bike, make lots of miles (start commuting) and PRACTISE all these basic skills. We simply forget things. Or we KNOW how to do it, but we avoid the difficult ones. And most bikes are only dreaming of the road. What is that rider waiting for?
@@voornaam3191 Because you don't need to pass with the bike that you buy at a later point. You can test on a Kawasaki Ninja 300 and then proceed to buy a 900 LB Touring bike. Agree that people should always continue practicing
@@voornaam3191 They need dirt bike skills, teaches "out of control"...control. I was always surprized how many street riders never even rode a mini bike as a kid. I assumed all did......nope!
It’s even more freaking scary to realize that so many people are riding around in their cars and cannot drive them.
@@cowboy7x Heck, even so many pedestrians cannot walk!
Really enjoy your videos. Thank you for making them. I’ve come from sport bikes to a touring bike, and you’ve been very helpful.
I failed the mvd skills test !!! Then humbled myself and took a riding class .... Learned skills and really enjoyed the school . It was for 6 hours and totally worth the expense. I passed the skills test at end of class and now I have a motorcycle license!!!! 👍😎
Great job!
When I was a kid learning to drive a car back in the 60's, I was told to "never overdrive your headlights". In my opinion, this applies to everything while riding or driving or snow skiing: "never overdrive your skills". Focus on where you DO want to go, not where you don't. I live in the mountains and 90% of my riding is in the twisties with blind curves and road hazards ranging from fallen branches, walnuts, roadkill and wet spots. Every time I ride, I pretend it is my first time and I assume that everything and everyone wants to surprise me and kill me. I constantly practice counter-steering at low speeds and regular steering at higher speeds along with braking skills with my brakes and engine. This constant practicing actually keeps me more relaxed while driving because it reinforces my "muscle memory" and reflexes. I want my bike to be an extension of myself, not just something I'm sitting on. Believer it or not, pretending that I am slalom skiing on the slopes keeps everything smoother and flowing. Snow skiers will understand what I mean. While on the slopes I wanted to practice form because the speed came on its own. This kept me from over-extending my skills. The end was more control while staying more relaxed with quicker responses. Focus. Look where you DO want to go. Practice, practice, practice. Also, if I"m riding with someone who goes through the curves faster than I do, I let them go on; I'll catch up eventually. I have nothing to prove. I ride to enjoy myself. I'm 71 years old and I still try to learn something every single day, in everything I do. Keep up the great videos.
Can you explain when you say regular steering at higher speeds ?
Counter-steering is when you push the handlebar down to go the opposite direction which is counter-intuitive. (Pushing on the left handlebar to go left and vice-versa.) There are many videos on this. Try it with your fingertips at slow speeds while going in a straight line on smooth pavement. This is extremely helpful when dodging potholes and road kill. As you go faster, this does not work as well and you should use REGULAR steering which means as you lean, you keep the handlebar in a neutral position with the bike instead of a counter position without pushing the handlebar down at all. Self-explanatory. @@marcmondragone8649
@@boomerguy9935 I have to try that . I thought countersteering would work at any speed. When I was a kid I used to ride bicycles the whole day and never paid attention to it.
search on KZhead videos for demonstrations. It's actually very easy. While riding below 30 mph in a straight line on pavement, GENTLY push forward or down slightly with your fingers and see/feel what happens. Once you get used to it, you will find it to be an excellent way to make a quick move around an obstacle. Keep your body upright and shoulders level. Someone told me a neat trick that works: imagine sitting on a beach ball and let your body move from the waist down at this speed. Practice, practice, practice. It will come naturally. Stay relaxed and focus on where you DO want to go.
Countersteering is better at High speed it's easier to turn and counteract the forces that keep the bike upright and wanting to go straight.
Great video as usual. I do a lot of farming (without auto steer). Even at 3-5 mph I tend to wander to the side where my eyes look!
Jerry, Thanks a lot for the great video and the safe riding techniques. Up here in the northeast we have another little known reason for failing to negotiate a curve. Many riders store their bikes away in a garage or whatever in the winter until riding season returns. Over the winter some tires lose some air pressure in storage and if a rider fails to check tire pressure when they take their bikes out in the spring this could also lead to failure to negotiate a turn or a curve. The low tire pressure isn't easily felt on the straightaways or turning at low speeds but at higher speeds it becomes very dangerous as the bike will not go where you aim it. Every spring I pick up the newspaper and read of several crashes involving just the rider. The accidents seem to occur less in recent years. I like to think it's because I have been posting warnings about low tire pressure on the few motorcycle sites that I belong to and of course to you Jerry with your excellent instructional videos.
That group of bikes running the exercise was mesmerising.. good vid bro
Somehow it feels like this is the only channel you need.🙂
I am a mountain biker, and the exact same principle applies on the trails!
Glad I looked at the comments before I posted exactly the same thing. I've had professional MTB coaching (much cheaper than a hospital stay) and "trail vision" is emphasized A LOT. It is also a skill that (for me) decays quickly if I don't ride frequently.
This is so true. I saved my self once on a decreasing radius curve by looking where I wanted to go and not towards the ditch and barbed wire fence. I leaned in more than I felt comfortable, but the bike had more turn in it than I did.
Hey Motorman! Got stuck in Portland traffic today. I used the hell out of the friction zone. Great videos!
I grew up on a dirt bike and would like to think I know what I'm doing, naturally moved into street bikes. I'm 49 yrs young and still learning. This is one of the best channels for learning and I've put alot of your lessons to use. Thanks for making me a better rider!
Jerry , IF people listen and watch this video, their skills AND safety will immediately skyrocket. You’re a great teacher bud.
I live in WV. All we have are curves. I have been riding since I was 16 and so far I have never run off the road. I am now 70 and still riding. Your video is right on track!!!!
I'm fairly proficient in riding my motorcycle, but I always come back to these videos to refresh even though it's second nature now.
I always love watching your videos!
Dandan never stops learning
Shut up Dan
@@bmcgi4075 omg the over analyzing kills me
Mommie dan🤣
I always love watching your videos!!
The biggest thing I always tell myself is you just gotta commit to it and believe that if you look where you want to go the bike will do it.
I remember that failing to look through my intended course was the first thing I did, fortunately with no bad outcome. Too true.
I've been riding for 30 plus years and after watching a couple of these videos, I realized there are many areas that I can improve my skills. I ordered the dvd and can't wait for the weather to improve so I can master this.
Interesting video, as always. I wonder if it would be possible for you to use some kind of pointer on your helmet or digitally in post production showing us where you're looking as you ride? Might make the statement "looking thru the turn" more clear for us slow kids. Keep up the great work, and thanks.