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Top 10 Worst Mistakes New Motorcycle Ride

  • jamesjordan
  • Sep 12
  • 3 min read

Top 10 Worst Mistakes New Motorcycle Riders Make (and How to Avoid Them)

By: Richy Marks

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Riding a motorcycle is one of the greatest freedoms in the world. But let’s be blunt—when you’re new, your mistakes don’t just cost you comfort, they can cost you safety. Every veteran rider has seen beginners do the same dangerous stuff again and again. If you’re just getting started, avoid these top 10 mistakes that can turn your dream ride into a nightmare.

1. Skipping Proper Riding Gear

The biggest rookie mistake? Rolling out in sneakers, shorts, and a T-shirt because it’s “just a quick ride.” Road rash doesn’t care how short the trip is. Invest in proper gear: a DOT-approved helmet (like Daytona Helmets), armored jackets, gloves, boots, and abrasion-resistant pants. Legendary USA offers American-made leather vests and BECK® horsehide jackets that protect while looking badass.


2. Buying Too Much Bike Too Soon

A 1,000cc sportbike or a fully loaded touring rig might look tempting, but it’s like learning to box by stepping into the ring with a heavyweight champ. Start with a manageable machine that lets you learn control, balance, and throttle finesse before chasing horsepower.


3. Not Taking a Rider Safety Course

“Learning from YouTube” doesn’t cut it. Taking a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course teaches you clutch control, countersteering, braking, and hazard awareness—skills that save lives. It also builds confidence way faster than trial and error on busy roads.


4. Forgetting You’re Invisible

Cars don’t see you. Period. Acting like they do is a death sentence. Ride like you’re invisible: stay out of blind spots, keep your lights on, and position yourself in lanes where you’re most visible. Assume every car might cut you off, and you’ll react before it happens.


5. Target Fixation

See a pothole or car bumper? Stare at it, and you’ll hit it. New riders often fixate on hazards instead of looking where they want to go. Train your eyes to scan ahead and through turns. Your bike will follow your vision.


6. Overconfidence After a Few Rides

Here’s the trap: you ride a few weekends, get comfortable, and suddenly think you’re ready to drag a knee in corners. That overconfidence leads to crashes. Motorcycling has a long learning curve—respect it. Every pro rider started slow and smart.


7. Bad Braking Habits

Grabbing a handful of front brake in a panic is how new riders lock up and crash. Learn progressive braking—smooth, steady pressure on the front brake while applying the rear for balance. Practice in an empty lot until it’s muscle memory.


8. Ignoring Weather and Road Conditions

Wet leaves, gravel, and painted lines in the rain will put you on the pavement quick. New riders often underestimate how much traction changes. Ride cautiously in bad weather, and remember that cold tires mean less grip.


9. Riding Without Proper Protection Underneath

Many new riders throw on just a leather jacket, forgetting that impact protection matters too. Companies like Bohn Armor make armored base layers you can wear under your gear for extra safety without sacrificing comfort. Think of it as insurance for your body.

10. Not Respecting the Culture

Riding isn’t just about the machine—it’s about the lifestyle. From Dyna bros pulling wheelies to Road Glide touring crews, everyone shares the road and the culture. Don’t be the rider who disrespects others by rev-bombing in neighborhoods or cutting through traffic recklessly. Instead, support the culture with the right gear, the right attitude, and respect for your fellow riders. Legendary USA is one brand that represents this ethos with quality gear built by riders, for riders.


Final Thoughts

Every rider starts somewhere, and mistakes are part of the journey—but some are too costly to learn the hard way. Avoid these top 10 rookie errors and you’ll build confidence, skill, and respect on the road. Ride with the right gear, ride smart, and most importantly—ride safe.


 
 
 

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