If you’re interested in motorcycling, there are a lot of different aspects of the sport that you should know about before hopping on to a bike. It might seem like many of these are common sense and would be just as important as when you are driving a car, but because they are two different kinds of vehicles, many people think the same rules don’t apply. Motorcycling can be fun and exciting, as long as you follow the rules.

Here are some tips to keep in mind as a beginner.

1. Pay attention to where you are going

Just like when you are driving a car, you need to pay close attention when you are driving around corners, making a turn, or even riding on a road that might be filed with potholes. Making sure you monitor where you are going can seriously save your life. Be sure to observe the environment around you, including other drivers and dips in the road. By looking to the right or left of you, you are also signaling to drivers that you are thinking about making a turn or moving over in a lane, so that they can be aware and watch out for you. This is a very good movie for your safety.

2. Drive defensively

Just like when you drive your car, you need to make sure you are always on guard. Most of the time, it’s not ourselves driving that we have to be worried about, but those around us. You can easily get hit while motorcycling by a drunk driver just the same way you can when you are driving. You need to be on the lookout for drivers not following the correct road rules, as well as those who have signs of intoxicated driving such as swerving or drifting into other lanes. Look both ways before you try and turn a corner. Being a defensive motorcyclist can ensure your safety and save your life.

3. Adjust your mirrors

Again, just because you’re not driving a car doesn’t mean the same rules don’t still apply! Just like you would adjust your mirrors on your car, you should do the same before you go for a ride. By adjusting your mirrors, you’ll be able to see drivers behind you and around you to ensure that you do not get into an accident.

Many of the rules that apply to drivers of cars also apply to that for motorcycling! If you just purchased a bike from a motorcycle dealer, chances are you want to get right on it and ride. As fun as that is, you want to make sure you have the right motorcycle equipment as well! Talk to motorcycle dealers for more information about what you should know as a beginner. Who knows, you might even love extreme sports so much you’ll look up a snowmobile dealer!

Do you ride motorcycles? What advice do you have for first time riders? Let us know in the comments below!