I've been riding for 1 year on a suzuki DRZ 400. 10k miles. I have practiced many of the things I've seen on your videos and others. You are the one who taught me friction zone, small amount of throttle, small amount of rear break. I am a stronger rider than many of the guys I have ridden with who are on big harleys who have been riding for years. Sorry you didnt make any money off of me, but you did teach me quite a lot. You are a good man.
In my humble opinion, EVERYONE wanting to start thier riding journey( and it's one hell of a journey) should be made to watch your videos. The advice and information that you have given to so many is invaluable, myself included, and I thank you for that. Cheers mate.
Ditto. I don't have a motorcycle endorsement yet, but I will get one within the next few years. I absolutely fell in love with big American touring bikes, and I will not settle for anything else. So I've been watching so many motorcycle training videos and practicing with any pair of wheels I can get my hands on.
Hey Jerry. This is Scott. I agree with what you said. I don't know why people are willing to spend 30k or more on a cvo but won't spend a few hundred or less on training. I've learned so much just watching your videos and from the advanced classes I have taken. I scrape the shit out of my floorboards all the time now and I love it!!! Lol. Take care and keep the rubber side down!!
I moved up to a bigger bike from my Vulcan 900. I took your Ride Like a Pro course on that big bike and now realize how much I needed improvement and not my bike. It’s such a pleasure riding both now. Your course is such a gift to the riding community.
Seriously! I have read Jerry,s book and have practiced every course so many times I can't remember. I've taught the M.S.F.C. back in the 80's. I really want to go to one of Jerry's classes. I've been off a bike for two years because of two hip replacements and just recently started riding again. Its amazing how if you don't use it you loose it pertains! I'm going for help! I don't want to mess up my new hips or worse! Thank you for being on UA-cam and helping us Jerry! You and your wife rock!
Great chat Jerry. Attitude is so important. Your chats speak to the proper attitude we as riders need to adopt if we don’t already practice it. Thanks for sharing/teachings.
Right on! Under-skilled riders are always in 'fear' as they know their lack of skills can (and very likely will) cause them serious injury. That fear makes them hyper-anxious, and always on edge (in a bad way), while riding, and that takes the fun out of riding. Further, they know that they are putting their passenger in mortal danger. Get the training, build the skills, have FUN. (I have over 50 years motorcycling experience. In the early years I didn't have the skills Jerry is talking about. Then I went and took a course and practiced, practiced, practiced. And still do. Made all the difference in the world. Even at my age, it's still FUN!)
Your wifey is a hottie, that ponytail thru the helmet is sexy man. A guy like you deserves her! :-) the passion you share for improving people's riding skills is deeply respected. You're saving lives man!
Jerry, I can say that you and your videos changed my abilities tremendously. I started riding in 1974, on a Honda 305 Super Hawk (just jumped on and rode not even knowing how to shift). Went to a KZ900, without the ability to do so, but I did it anyway. Went through a few more bikes (Honda 750 Four, Yamaha XS1100 Special) then laid off riding for 10 years. Came back in on a Harley FXR-P with the 1340cc (80 cu in) motor. Then, I started buying a lot of different bikes (40 plus to this date) because "I just did not feel they fit me right." But, in reality, I was not a good rider. In 2003, I bought my first Ride Like a Pro DVD from you and cut some Wal-Mart tennis balls in half. Put those half tennis balls out on an abandoned Bowling Alley parking lot and practiced, a lot. Then, I saw some real riding.... A friend of ours and us went for a ride and I saw how your course was implemented with a true rider. Our friend was a California CHP (retired) Motor officer for 20 years. He rode a Honda 1500 Goldwing and handled it like it was a child's toy, with his wife on back. Unbelievable.... He watched your videos and said, "Practice what is on that DVD and you will have no problems riding ever again." Fast forward... The other day (9/15/20) a deer and her babies jumped out in front of me while I was going 65 mph on my, yes, Honda Goldwing 1500.... What came up in my mind??? Jerry saying, "Front brake, front brake, front brake!!!" (Mean Streets!) Then, "release and turn. You can't do both braking and turning at the same time!" I slowed to about 25 mph, let go of the front brake, looked to the right (going behind them) and went down the "fog line" to miss them... The car behind me, unfortunately did not know what to do and skidded off the right side of the road (missed the deer but messed up his car).... I know the car driver was "watching me and following me" (head and eyes on my backside). That is why I "let go of the front brake", did two counter steering moves. I kept going as I practiced, "rapid slowing, releasing the front brake, head and eyes looking where I wanted to go, counter steer right, counter steer left and keep going, when I cleared the deer. If I had of stopped completely, Mr Car driver would have plowed up my backside!!! Thank you Jerry, you made me a better rider and possibly saved my life two times so far. The other time was when I had my wife on back and 4 horses jumped out in front of use going 65 mph on Hwy 29, heading North, near 11th street, in Lakeport, CA... That is another story!!! Jerry, you are my "little voice" saying, "Front brake, front brake, front brake!" Take care and thank you, again!!!!
Hello MotorMan! Shortly after I got my 91 Sporty1200 I found your site and realized I wasn't riding as good as I thought I was. It didn't take long though, I spent a good 5 hrs at a pkg lot with the cut in half tennis balls, much more visible than those costly msf cones. I still practice once a month anyway for a few hrs. I find it quite enjoyable to work on keeping my skills up.
I agree !!! training is a must for safe and pleasure in riding motorcycles, and even more in bigger motorcycles. Thank you for your videos. God Bless and Jesus protects, you and your beautiful family !!! Cheers
You are 100%. The same way real estate is about location, location, location. Proper motorcycle riding with confidence is about training, training, training.
Always enjoy your wisdom about riding. I’m that guy that’s been riding for 50 years and took an advanced riding course and realized I was not an advanced rider. Then took your ride like a pro class and improved my skills exponentially. Every time I go out for a ride I find a parking lot and practice for five minutes. It’s funny some days I do great and others I suck!! Heh it is what it is. There is something important I would like to talk to you about if possible. My wife and I are planning a two up cross country trip next June for two months. We ride a 2017 FLHTK. I’m considering buying a trailer to tow all the gear but I’m concerned about being able to hard brake and swerve to avoid an obstacle or car. I can’t afford to stay in motels for two months so I’ll need to camp, therefore the trailer. I’ll be 71 when we start this trip and yes my back isn’t what it used to be. So bending over to set up a tent ain’t going to work. Nevermind getting up twice to pee in the middle of the night! Haha! Not really funny! I’ve heard you say you would never tow a trailer. I’m on the fence about this . Your opinion would go a long way. Sorry for the long message but I am torn.
Just live listening to You. It all makes common sense. I had a uncle with one eye and he was always riding big BMW’s and a friend of his had Electra Glide, I was 16 when he allowed me to go up the road and make u turn (45 feet about) didn’t drop it but hell my pants were wet 🤪 now after riding big Yamahas and Honda’s for 37 years got my first HD Street Glide Special, I’m 6’5 and don’t fit on small bikes…had a lot of respect from the size and weight but it turned out i can handle it quite well feeling very comfortable. Bought Your RLAP Video Yesterday saved on my personal cloud and on 3 devices, so no issue on loosing it anytime soon…looking forward to practicing all You show…there is no such thing as being to experienced. I believe in always be prepared for the worst case scenario and hope for the best. With my teacher (he was on a Honda 1000 CBR with ABS) did a break contest with my Yamaha TDM 1990 I stopped shorter with both wheels locked my ass all the way on the back wheel…used all my skills from Mountain biking on trails after all it has 2 wheels…just wanted to say big thanks for all Your efforts. God bless You and ride safe
Glad to help. At 6'5'' you might look into a seat that sits you further back from the bars. Harley and Saddleman makes seats like that and probably some other companys as well.
I'm 49 and have been riding for 32 years. I currently ride a 2003 805cc Suzuki Volusia. More than enough bike for me. Can I ride a bigger bike, 👍. Can I do the maneuvers in this video, 👍. Do I need a bigger bike to look cool, 👎. There is always more to learn and get better at IMO. Practice is more important than the bike you're riding.
Im 45 and also ride a 03 Volusia 800cc. my wife rides with me and we keep up (2 up) no problem. plus the bike is VERY ergonomic in tight spaces! I just wished they would offer the boulevard with twin front brakes and a disc back brake. Until then the 03 is all i want.
Too many people seem to think big bike means they have big skills. My wife needs a bigger bike to keep up had to be one of the dumbest things I have heard. New riders in the UK have to take a basic skills course, that has elements of this training and it has no doubt saved many lives giving riders the initial skills required to ride. Once you have these it’s practice and then learn about advanced riding/driving about positioning, gears braking reading the road and spotting danger be reading the toad. Too many road users out there have narrow vision and only read 100 yards ahead.
right on brother! i too am 49 and have ridden since i was 7. i ride a 1997 Suzuki Marauder. bought it brand new. still runs awesome! it has over 80 or 90k miles and i dont need bigger unless im goin to ride 4000miles with camping gear and a bitch on back! no disrespect . i love my Wife. i was talkin about my dog. yea in my opinion the bigger the bike you need means your tryin to make up for somethin.... an experienced and confident rider can make the smaller bikes perform quite well. i also ride a 1995 800 Vulcan. it's very different from the Marauder but just as nimble. Marauder eats the Vulcan for lunch. but they are pals and parked beside each other. your Volusia is the newer version of what i have but with shaft and fuel injection. i built a huge belt drive for the Marauder . look up my channel .i only have a short badly done video of it but it's a good look at it . ill post more on them both soon.
12:32 Been watching you for like ten years, and love the content! I’ve been riding since 1987, and didn’t even drive a car from 2011 to 2021. My motorcycle was my only mode of transportation. So I got pretty accustomed to riding in the rain. Growing up in Ohio, I’ve ridden in 2°, in snow, and I even had to ride in a tropical storm once when we lived in Alabama. I now live in Daytona, and the only time I almost went down in the rain was several years ago on my brand new 2017 Road Glide Ultra. It was a pretty slow right hand, sort of curve onto another road. But there was a crosswalk that I had to ride over. I ran across the wet, painted lines and there she went. I actually caught it by putting my foot down dirt bike style. To this day I can’t believe that worked. But it did. Made me jittery for a while to say the least. Keep up the great work. And I hope to attend your class over there when I start riding again. BE SAFE OUT THERE Y’ALL!
I have watched many of your training videos and I think every single rider should watch all your videos. I have ridden from the age of around 7. I have ridden road bikes for the past 20 years. I am 40 now and I ride a m109r 1800cc. I first watched one of your videos about a month ago and thought hmmm I will try that. Next day I went for a ride and tried what I watched on cornering and u turns and from the first time I tried it I thought how have I been riding road bikes for 20 years and not known this. My cornering has tripled and my u turns are waaayyy better and a lot more comfortable and less worry. I have never had a lesson in my life and one video had me riding a lot better. These video’s are free lessons and I really don’t think you can find better video’s than the videos this guy makes. I live in Australia, if I lived near this guy I would be getting a lot of lessons. Thank you sir for uploading all these videos. After 20 years on cruisers you have me riding a lot better from one video. I have now watched a lot of your videos and I make my son watch them.
Glad to help. If you'd like all my tips and techniques in the correct order, download a copy of my Ride Like a Pro Experience, video. The best 20 bucks you'll ever spend at ridelikeapro.com
I see so many videos of MC accidents where the rider is afraid to lean the bike over, they come into a curve and instead of leaning the bike over they go straight ahead and run off the road, and sometimes hit or get hit by oncoming traffic. You mention riding in the rain, a couple of important tips, tar snakes (lines of liquid tar to seal cracks in the road) and painted arrows or other painted lines are like ice when they are wet. Tar snakes can also be very hazardous in very hot weather, the tar melts a little making them slippery. Remember tar snakes and painted lines, extremely slippery when wet!
Thanks for this video Jerry. Training and practice can make anyone a skilled rider regardless of bike size, but a bigger bike does not improve the skills someone does not have, or has not mastered. I have been on bike since I was 5, and with a leisurely 45-60 mph ride through the countryside, practically any bike from a 100 to a 1500 will "keep up" just fine. It all comes down to the rider's skills and abilities which only improve with training and practice. At 55 I still ride a variety of my own bikes from a '64 Honda 150 Benly to an 1100 Goldwing, and on any back roads or rural highways I choose, with either bike. 60+ mph on the 150 isn't ideal for the highway, to say the least, but that is the Goldwing's strength. Tight, curvy 1-laners in the mountains are a bit tight on the 1100, and so the 150 is a blast. In some cases, smaller is better for country-driving as it keeps you out of trouble you might get into with a larger bike. For interstate highways I only use my Silverwing 500 or the Goldwing, just so I have a fighting chance to be seen by other drivers, and to escape trouble with relative ease. 40 years ago I could ride my 300 Honda on I-95 in Richmond without fear of being run over, but not these days. On the other hand, I could manage the Interstate now on as little as a 450 Nighthawk, I just don't like the environment or heavy traffic. I have been on bikes where "cheating death at 145 mph" seemed like fun, at the time, too. I don't like that kind of ride any more, even if I can do it, it doesn't follow that I should. I "ride for fun", too, but I want to get there and back in one piece, lol!
Yeah I put four in the corp, myself. It is better to take his words to heart than to find out he was right by accident! . . . Heard Jerry saying things like where you look is where you go when it comes to turning? Yeah, very nice little four-lane road which divided and circled this lake off 49th. St. Turned off a 22nd at the light it's pretty much by myself so I wanted to lay the bike over in those turns to see how it performed. Made it all the way around the lake and then I had to switch back with a sharp hairpin turn. About this time a guy in his ford dually was beside me in the turn. I was startled bumped off his duallys bike climbed up the side wall and I came down and it came down I was able to ride it out but shaking I had pulled across two lanes of traffic going the opposite direction, good thing nobody was on that side of the road! 😁
Jerry. I know from your videos you ought to be a tough guy but, your talk during this one also shows your empathy and strong teaching skill. I would go as far as to say, I myself might be better off going back to elementary school (250cc) and master all the techniques you teach. Then slowly put all those skills through the ccs until I reach back to my current 1150RT. Although not feasible, one thing I humbly learned from this one, get the training ASAP and exhaust all the potential my current motorcycle has to offer before I transition out of it. Already contacted GLRLP to sign up as soon as their 2022 class start. Will keep you posted. Thanks for a sense of reality.
In July of 2008, I rode from California to Florida to Washington State to California. I was on the road for 29 days, and it rained on me every single day in every single state. What a ride. That rain kept my bike clean. I just wiped it down every day and it stayed clean for the entire trip. Riding in the rain isn't really a problem.
There's only one thing I like more than watching your UA-cam videos, Jerry. And that is sharing them with my family and other riders. Thanks for that privilege. My VTX1800 says hi to The MotoMan.
Let us not forget about one's self, don't get the bigger bike thinking it will "help" your riding. I'm watching Jerry Palladino videos, learning new and better riding techniques. Most helpful TYVM
I ordered your 2 videos, Ride like a pro and Meanstreets. The following day you added another free one to that package. Lol. Day late. But who cares because I got the best 2 out there. I went to Walmart and got a bunch of tennis balls cut them in half like u said and I painted them bright orange. I also bought a big pack of smaller cones. I'm excited about learning. Today is my first day of practice at the college parking lot and I'm very excited. I'm not going out riding until I practice everyday for 2 weeks and as soon as I can do your excercises I'm going to take your personal course and have you tweak my skills. The college is 3 miles from me so I'm just going to ride there. Then I can take your class every year and continue to practice at least once or twice a week. Thank you for all you do and I'm so pleased to have found you. # we love the Motorman.
Hi Tracy...we didn't add another free one to the package New Ride Like a Pro and Shortcuts video. You get the free practice guide with those videos from us. Can you find the video you're speaking of?
Hello Jerry. You know what it was . You have so many videos out there I might have seen one of them. You know what your doing. I'm gonna chalk it up to me being a doofus. I have the 2 that I need to practice with and have them down so I can come to a class and have you tweak what I'm doing wrong. They have already made me so much more comfortable with riding. I will be scheduling your class at the end of October or beginning of November. If your doing classes then. Thank you for all your help and what you do. You really save lives. See you soon sir.
Thank you very much Jerry. Everything you said is so true. I'm 5' tall weighing 155. I've have had 6 bikes in my life so far. I started with a 250 Honda Dream and slowly went up to a Yamaha Roadstar 102"cu in. Like you say training training practice practice. I probably have only about 200k miles behind me but I keep learning. I'm 77yo and am looking for another bike. Thanks again for being so correctly informative.
Great video thanks for sharing ..Im trying to improve my turning skills on my 1988 heritage softail and these videos help..Your wife rides that bike like a pro..Good job.
Riding in the rai on secondary highways? If the road is worn from semi truck traffic stay out of the tire ruts at highway speeds as not to hydroplane!!! Old guy here speaking from experience. Great videos thanks for helping me learn to ride better after 40 plus years. i bought your set of DVD a few years back. When i tell some of the other old bikers that i bought a DVD set to learn how to ride better most are puzzled. Gotta smile about it.
Great work here Jerry. Thank you. Your first story in this video, troubles me. The selfishness of your friend, buying a second Harley, on the pretext that it was for his wife, when she was already struggling with a smaller bike, is scandalous. But what is worse, is that she trusted his judgment, rode the new Harley and it almost cost her life. That's unforgivable. I'll wager my life savings that the wife is completely unaware that her husband consulted you before the purchase or that you recommended training instead of going bigger. Personally Jerry, I think that lady deserves to know the truth.
Just learning to ride and passed my m/c course on the schools Honda Rebel and boyfriend bought me a softail. I just do not feel comfortable on it yet. Instructor also said could be too much bike this soon. But of course I love the look of it!
I'm 54 member of CBA ABATE hickory NC. This video explained much that I'll never forget. I am planning with another member or two to hit the high schools on driver education classes and to help with education on lookout for motorcycles we are searching for videos and probably edit them but to be aware of 100% of your surroundings when you're in a cage I see too many people looking down at their cell phones at green lights and I have to blow my horn at them or they'll be generally driving with their eyes down not even paying attention to the road I started riding in 1983 all I had to worry about then was deer nowadays you got to add a lot more factors into it it's almost to a point where it's not enjoyable I ride solo a lot hell I'm 5 mph below the speed limit and I keep my hand and foot ready for the brakes constantly scanning not much time to look at scenery when you got to ride that defensive!
Just completed a 12 day journey in Italy! That was a humbling experience. I started riding at 15 now close to 70 where did the time go. Anyway most of the roads were small two lane roads twist and turns almost every 150-200 feet apart it showed what I need to work on . Both guides that rode with us had been riding Since they were 15-16 but they raced and ran schools for racing and street riding.
I started off as a kid on a minibike. I bought a Yamaha 1200 Deluxe a few months ago. I have rode bikes all my life and decided to buy this bike for a road trip of 3600 mile road trip. The only reason I bought this bike was for the air ride, cruse control and comfort. Enjoy your rides and ride with God.
Honestly, I have a BMW 1979 R65 (650cc), a BMW G650GS, and just got a BMW R1200GSA. My favorite is the G650GS. Honestly I have no issue keeping up, it's more fun in the 0-70 range, which is where most of my riding goes anyhow. The myth bigger is better is well implanted in the media!
My tip for getting caught and having to ride in the rain. Wear a helmet with a face shield! Either full or 3/4 with retractable face shield. Shields also lesson the sting from the hwy bug/beatles etc. Thanks for all your videos.
If it just started to rain, do yourself a favor and take a break. Oils on the road are going to be there just waiting to ruin your day. Let it rain a bit to wash them away. And keep an eye on your tread wear. The deeper the grooves on your tread the better they push water away avoiding hydroplaning.
Great tips and good stories, riding in the rain can be tricky especially if there is oil or other chemicals on the road, Even going slow when you hit oily patches just after it has started raining you can loose grip on either tire. I try to not ride in the rain too but if you get caught in the rain be aware the road is more slippery if it has only just started to rain as oil residue is still on the surface of the road.
Love your educational and "common sense" videos. It's been 40 years since I road last... I had a 1979 Honda 750. Looking to pick up either a Harley Street Glide or an Indian Chieftain. Wanting to gain as much information and education as I can before I purchase my next motorcycle. Thanks for all that you do. Love your first name by the way!
Awesome! I should have watched this a month ago. I have a Suzuki Intruder VS800 and Hubs upgraded me to a Softail Deluxe because I wanted a larger bike (because of a trend💁🏽♀️). So now, I actively watch your exercise UA-cam videos for practicing of the techniques on both. Thinking about just practicing on the 800 to strengthen my low speed maneuvers....surely, you agree?
I took this rider's safety course in Central California. It was so helpful im glad I did it. Learned ots of helpful safety tips that I use till this day!!!! Main one I remeber is situation awareness and never ride the clutch.
Thank you Jerry and Donna for another great video. Your ongoing contributions to the skill and safety of the motorcycle riding community worldwide is incalculable. I have just about every DVD you've made available throughout the years, watch every UA-cam video you publish, and the skills I've developed and honed from your instructions (and others) are invaluable. I also appreciate your soft UA-cam intros where you don't assault and barrage the mind and senses with blaring sounds, images, crazy music... I'd like to add some further tips for riding in the rain that Jerry brings up at the end of the video. This is from the 2008 Motorcops DVD I have entitled, "Basic Motor Officer Class," by then motor officers, Rob Grimsley and Timmy Glover: Have rain gear. First 15 - 20 minutes the road is slickest, so if you have a chance get to the side of the road, go under underpass, let debris and grime come off the surface, then continue. Try riding in the tire path of the vehicle in front of you, it displaces water on roadway for better traction. Decrease speed, increase following distance. Watch for slick surfaces such as draw bridges, manhole covers, roadway markings.
Wholly agree - training is key to survival and brings greater appreciation of your skills and knowledge, as well as that of the bike and it's limits. Fair to say, if you are watching these videos, you'll already appreciate this fact.......
Here in the UK we sometimes don't get an option about riding in the rain. So we just get on with it, I just wish the car drivers had listened to your advice. Ride safe 💙
I'm 25 and just started riding, I bought a used Honda Nighthawk 250 and I love it! The only thing I dont love is that when I _need_ to go on longer, higher speed rides, the bike is very stressed and vibrate-y. I want to move up to a bike thats around 40-50hp BUT (apart from funds), I'm making it a point to not move up until I can fully tame the little 250.
I'm 18 and I live in New zealand I'm on my motorcycle learners license, I ride a 2017 yamaha R3 which is a 321cc and I find that it's a perfect bike for me as I do alot of cornering on the way to work and I learn alot on that bike it does the perfect job for me It is a sports bike
I started riding back in May of this year. I"m a bigger guy, 6' 3" 230+ lbs and ride a 250cc because I hadn't even touched a dirt bike in my life and put my ego aside and decided to go with something a bit slower to develop and master skills before moving up.
Good advices, soon i will buy Suzuki V strom 650, used to drive only scooter. Practising is on my mind every second and i looking forward to do it, good day Sir. 😎 🍀
Great video as always. Thanks for all you do for the riding community. Please do you have specific riding videos for the BMW R1200RT (I have the 2017 model). Many thanks
Hi wish I lived near by...would be in your class in a New York minute. However, on a positive note I took your advice and both/installed a softbrake reduce lever clutch and a softbrake back brake pedal. I am absolutely delighted with both and it could be my imagination but I swear my slow maneuver riding has improved and I feel much more comfortable on the bike. With regards to the back brake pedal I can comfortably cover the brake riding through the streets with comfort and security. Thanks for reviewing these products Andy Colon O Fallon Il
Hey Jerry, just wanted to make a quick shout out, I'm from Ukraine and I'm watching your videos regularly. I wish I could one day be able to attend your class or the class of someone as good as you! Thanks for your videos, keep up the good work!
@@fredrickhaemker8434 I think your right. I f it weren't for the smoke and fire I'd never get off my bike . But the whole nation is under the great delusion . You can run but ?
Well. I don't ride a motorcycle. However I ride an ADDMOTOR ELECTRIC BIKE. It looks like the old Harley Davidsons from anywhere from the 1930s - 1950s. The bike weighs a little over 100 lbs. . So your training videos on you tube are good for me too.
Ive just discovered your channel and im really enjoying it. My husband is getting his first bike later this year and its not going to be anything bigger than a 300/400 cc. Here in Australia, learners are restricted with what they can ride for 3 years - up to 47bhp. Luckily he has the good sense to take my advice when i say a smaller cc bike is perfect for your first bike. We have been looking at the used bike sales ads. Theres an mt03 for sale with only 1000kms on it. The ad says im selling my girlfriends bike we bought a few months ago as shes ready for an upgrade! What? 1000kms of riding is now counted as real experience? Maybe just another case of a bloke wanting a second bike to ride who is willing to put his girlfriends safety at risk. I love doing courses. Ive done 1 so far this year, and im doing the California Superbike School in December. They are so worthwhile.
Coming off of super sport street bikes onto a Harley touring bike I definitely see a need for some training. Completely different handling and center of gravity
I learned to ride four years ago when I retired at age 66. I took a couple of riding classes and avoided the temptation to get a heavy powerful bike for my first bike. Bought a used Honda NC700x. Yes, it was slow but not too slow which, looking back, kept me out of trouble. Two years later I bought a Yamaha fj 09. Yes, it is fast but it is also very light. At my age, I have no intention of buying a 800+ pound bike; 500 lb is perfect. A good friend of mine has been riding for over 50 years. About five years ago he got rid of his 900 lb HD and got a Triumph Tiger 800. He still says it makes him feel like a kid again.
Sorry about your friend and his wife .you have to know your limits and have confidence in yourself .I like my wife behind me I would constantly checking her , I don't need to say she owns a Harley too. She is happy on the back of my Harley and I'm happy to have her there . I hope your friend and his wife are ok. I'm 66years old and have owned many bikes over the years my first a 62 pan head bagger, I watch your channel and constantly learn little things that I either forgot or didn't know about thank you
I see an analogy with firearms: Even the tiniest person can master the most powerful cartridges, however that doesn't mean that a novice should be handed a 454 Casull with a 2 1/2" barrel and cut loose on the firing line. That person will end up being frightened and unhappy, and injury could result. I start new shooters with a mild chambering in a firearm that fits their hands well, and let the individual decide when to up the power, noise, and recoil and/or switch to a different type of gun. With bikes, start with a machine that fits the rider well, handles "light", and inspires confidence while learning the basics, then allow the rider to figure out if and when he or she wants to move to a larger machine.
I've been riding for 1 year on a suzuki DRZ 400. 10k miles.
I have practiced many of the things I've seen on your videos and others. You are the one who taught me friction zone, small amount of throttle, small amount of rear break.
I am a stronger rider than many of the guys I have ridden with who are on big harleys who have been riding for years.
Sorry you didnt make any money off of me, but you did teach me quite a lot. You are a good man.
In my humble opinion, EVERYONE wanting to start thier riding journey( and it's one hell of a journey) should be made to watch your videos. The advice and information that you have given to so many is invaluable, myself included, and I thank you for that. Cheers mate.
Ditto. I don't have a motorcycle endorsement yet, but I will get one within the next few years. I absolutely fell in love with big American touring bikes, and I will not settle for anything else. So I've been watching so many motorcycle training videos and practicing with any pair of wheels I can get my hands on.
Hey Jerry. This is Scott. I agree with what you said. I don't know why people are willing to spend 30k or more on a cvo but won't spend a few hundred or less on training. I've learned so much just watching your videos and from the advanced classes I have taken. I scrape the shit out of my floorboards all the time now and I love it!!! Lol. Take care and keep the rubber side down!!
Thanks.
Boy, you nailed it when you said people will shy away from training because they say they're just riding for fun.
Be Safe!
I moved up to a bigger bike from my Vulcan 900. I took your Ride Like a Pro course on that big bike and now realize how much I needed improvement and not my bike. It’s such a pleasure riding both now. Your course is such a gift to the riding community.
Well said. The more we learn, (and we can always learn, or we should), the more fun we have.
I love these talks! Good advice, and video as always Jerry!
I appreciate that!
👍
Seriously! I have read Jerry,s book and have practiced every course so many times I can't remember. I've taught the M.S.F.C. back in the 80's. I really want to go to one of Jerry's classes. I've been off a bike for two years because of two hip replacements and just recently started riding again. Its amazing how if you don't use it you loose it pertains! I'm going for help! I don't want to mess up my new hips or worse! Thank you for being on UA-cam and helping us Jerry! You and your wife rock!
Sure appreciate all you've taught me still do at 75 I review weekly your information
Outstanding advice. Training makes the difference.
Great chat Jerry. Attitude is so important. Your chats speak to the proper attitude we as riders need to adopt if we don’t already practice it. Thanks for sharing/teachings.
Most people ride for fun....the more you know how to ride the more fun it is,isn't it?
I agree !! Why I had so much fun taking the BRC to get my license last week.
I passed with flying colors 😁
Right on! Under-skilled riders are always in 'fear' as they know their lack of skills can (and very likely will) cause them serious injury. That fear makes them hyper-anxious, and always on edge (in a bad way), while riding, and that takes the fun out of riding. Further, they know that they are putting their passenger in mortal danger. Get the training, build the skills, have FUN. (I have over 50 years motorcycling experience. In the early years I didn't have the skills Jerry is talking about. Then I went and took a course and practiced, practiced, practiced. And still do. Made all the difference in the world. Even at my age, it's still FUN!)
Yes
Your wifey is a hottie, that ponytail thru the helmet is sexy man. A guy like you deserves her! :-) the passion you share for improving people's riding skills is deeply respected. You're saving lives man!
Jerry, I can say that you and your videos changed my abilities tremendously. I started riding in 1974, on a Honda 305 Super Hawk (just jumped on and rode not even knowing how to shift). Went to a KZ900, without the ability to do so, but I did it anyway. Went through a few more bikes (Honda 750 Four, Yamaha XS1100 Special) then laid off riding for 10 years. Came back in on a Harley FXR-P with the 1340cc (80 cu in) motor. Then, I started buying a lot of different bikes (40 plus to this date) because "I just did not feel they fit me right." But, in reality, I was not a good rider. In 2003, I bought my first Ride Like a Pro DVD from you and cut some Wal-Mart tennis balls in half. Put those half tennis balls out on an abandoned Bowling Alley parking lot and practiced, a lot. Then, I saw some real riding....
A friend of ours and us went for a ride and I saw how your course was implemented with a true rider. Our friend was a California CHP (retired) Motor officer for 20 years. He rode a Honda 1500 Goldwing and handled it like it was a child's toy, with his wife on back. Unbelievable.... He watched your videos and said, "Practice what is on that DVD and you will have no problems riding ever again." Fast forward... The other day (9/15/20) a deer and her babies jumped out in front of me while I was going 65 mph on my, yes, Honda Goldwing 1500.... What came up in my mind??? Jerry saying, "Front brake, front brake, front brake!!!" (Mean Streets!) Then, "release and turn. You can't do both braking and turning at the same time!" I slowed to about 25 mph, let go of the front brake, looked to the right (going behind them) and went down the "fog line" to miss them... The car behind me, unfortunately did not know what to do and skidded off the right side of the road (missed the deer but messed up his car).... I know the car driver was "watching me and following me" (head and eyes on my backside). That is why I "let go of the front brake", did two counter steering moves. I kept going as I practiced, "rapid slowing, releasing the front brake, head and eyes looking where I wanted to go, counter steer right, counter steer left and keep going, when I cleared the deer. If I had of stopped completely, Mr Car driver would have plowed up my backside!!! Thank you Jerry, you made me a better rider and possibly saved my life two times so far. The other time was when I had my wife on back and 4 horses jumped out in front of use going 65 mph on Hwy 29, heading North, near 11th street, in Lakeport, CA... That is another story!!! Jerry, you are my "little voice" saying, "Front brake, front brake, front brake!" Take care and thank you, again!!!!
Glad I could help.
Purchased your ride like a pro video a few weeks ago. My girlfriend and I are having a lot of fun in our local schools parking lot. Good fun! Thanks
Great to hear!
Hello MotorMan! Shortly after I got my 91 Sporty1200 I found your site and realized I wasn't
riding as good as I thought I was. It didn't take long though, I spent a good 5 hrs at a pkg lot
with the cut in half tennis balls, much more visible than those costly msf cones. I still practice
once a month anyway for a few hrs. I find it quite enjoyable to work on keeping my skills up.
I agree !!! training is a must for safe and pleasure in riding motorcycles, and even more in bigger motorcycles. Thank you for your videos. God Bless and Jesus protects, you and your beautiful family !!! Cheers
You are 100%. The same way real estate is about location, location, location. Proper motorcycle riding with confidence is about training, training, training.
Always enjoy your wisdom about riding. I’m that guy that’s been riding for 50 years and took an advanced riding course and realized I was not an advanced rider. Then took your ride like a pro class and improved my skills exponentially. Every time I go out for a ride I find a parking lot and practice for five minutes. It’s funny some days I do great and others I suck!! Heh it is what it is. There is something important I would like to talk to you about if possible. My wife and I are planning a two up cross country trip next June for two months. We ride a 2017 FLHTK. I’m considering buying a trailer to tow all the gear but I’m concerned about being able to hard brake and swerve to avoid an obstacle or car. I can’t afford to stay in motels for two months so I’ll need to camp, therefore the trailer. I’ll be 71 when we start this trip and yes my back isn’t what it used to be. So bending over to set up a tent ain’t going to work. Nevermind getting up twice to pee in the middle of the night! Haha! Not really funny! I’ve heard you say you would never tow a trailer. I’m on the fence about this . Your opinion would go a long way. Sorry for the long message but I am torn.
Just live listening to You. It all makes common sense. I had a uncle with one eye and he was always riding big BMW’s and a friend of his had Electra Glide, I was 16 when he allowed me to go up the road and make u turn (45 feet about) didn’t drop it but hell my pants were wet 🤪 now after riding big Yamahas and Honda’s for 37 years got my first HD Street Glide Special, I’m 6’5 and don’t fit on small bikes…had a lot of respect from the size and weight but it turned out i can handle it quite well feeling very comfortable. Bought Your RLAP Video Yesterday saved on my personal cloud and on 3 devices, so no issue on loosing it anytime soon…looking forward to practicing all You show…there is no such thing as being to experienced. I believe in always be prepared for the worst case scenario and hope for the best. With my teacher (he was on a Honda 1000 CBR with ABS) did a break contest with my Yamaha TDM 1990 I stopped shorter with both wheels locked my ass all the way on the back wheel…used all my skills from Mountain biking on trails after all it has 2 wheels…just wanted to say big thanks for all Your efforts.
God bless You and ride safe
Glad to help. At 6'5'' you might look into a seat that sits you further back from the bars. Harley and Saddleman makes seats like that and probably some other companys as well.
@@motorman857
Thanks for the advice will take a look in 2 weeks will be at the dealer.
I'm 49 and have been riding for 32 years. I currently ride a 2003 805cc Suzuki Volusia. More than enough bike for me. Can I ride a bigger bike, 👍. Can I do the maneuvers in this video, 👍. Do I need a bigger bike to look cool, 👎. There is always more to learn and get better at IMO. Practice is more important than the bike you're riding.
Amen, brother!
Im 45 and also ride a 03 Volusia 800cc. my wife rides with me and we keep up (2 up) no problem. plus the bike is VERY ergonomic in tight spaces! I just wished they would offer the boulevard with twin front brakes and a disc back brake. Until then the 03 is all i want.
@@shaggyhiker7942 it is good that you find sufficiency in the 03 there's nothing wrong with that aspect.
Too many people seem to think big bike means they have big skills. My wife needs a bigger bike to keep up had to be one of the dumbest things I have heard. New riders in the UK have to take a basic skills course, that has elements of this training and it has no doubt saved many lives giving riders the initial skills required to ride. Once you have these it’s practice and then learn about advanced riding/driving about positioning, gears braking reading the road and spotting danger be reading the toad. Too many road users out there have narrow vision and only read 100 yards ahead.
right on brother! i too am 49 and have ridden since i was 7.
i ride a 1997 Suzuki Marauder. bought it brand new. still runs awesome! it has over 80 or 90k miles and i dont need bigger unless im goin to ride 4000miles with camping gear and a bitch on back!
no disrespect . i love my Wife. i was talkin about my dog.
yea in my opinion the bigger the bike you need means your tryin to make up for somethin....
an experienced and confident rider can make the smaller bikes perform quite well. i also ride a 1995 800 Vulcan. it's very different from the Marauder but just as nimble. Marauder eats the Vulcan for lunch. but they are pals and parked beside each other.
your Volusia is the newer version of what i have but with shaft and fuel injection.
i built a huge belt drive for the Marauder . look up my channel .i only have a short badly done video of it but it's a good look at it . ill post more on them both soon.
12:32
Been watching you for like ten years, and love the content!
I’ve been riding since 1987, and didn’t even drive a car from 2011 to 2021. My motorcycle was my only mode of transportation.
So I got pretty accustomed to riding in the rain. Growing up in Ohio, I’ve ridden in 2°, in snow, and I even had to ride in a tropical storm once when we lived in Alabama.
I now live in Daytona, and the only time I almost went down in the rain was several years ago on my brand new 2017 Road Glide Ultra. It was a pretty slow right hand, sort of curve onto another road. But there was a crosswalk that I had to ride over. I ran across the wet, painted lines and there she went.
I actually caught it by putting my foot down dirt bike style.
To this day I can’t believe that worked. But it did.
Made me jittery for a while to say the least.
Keep up the great work. And I hope to attend your class over there when I start riding again.
BE SAFE OUT THERE Y’ALL!
I have watched many of your training videos and I think every single rider should watch all your videos. I have ridden from the age of around 7. I have ridden road bikes for the past 20 years. I am 40 now and I ride a m109r 1800cc. I first watched one of your videos about a month ago and thought hmmm I will try that. Next day I went for a ride and tried what I watched on cornering and u turns and from the first time I tried it I thought how have I been riding road bikes for 20 years and not known this. My cornering has tripled and my u turns are waaayyy better and a lot more comfortable and less worry. I have never had a lesson in my life and one video had me riding a lot better. These video’s are free lessons and I really don’t think you can find better video’s than the videos this guy makes. I live in Australia, if I lived near this guy I would be getting a lot of lessons. Thank you sir for uploading all these videos. After 20 years on cruisers you have me riding a lot better from one video. I have now watched a lot of your videos and I make my son watch them.
Glad to help. If you'd like all my tips and techniques in the correct order, download a copy of my Ride Like a Pro Experience, video. The best 20 bucks you'll ever spend at ridelikeapro.com
I see so many videos of MC accidents where the rider is afraid to lean the bike over, they come into a curve and instead of leaning the bike over they go straight ahead and run off the road, and sometimes hit or get hit by oncoming traffic. You mention riding in the rain, a couple of important tips, tar snakes (lines of liquid tar to seal cracks in the road) and painted arrows or other painted lines are like ice when they are wet. Tar snakes can also be very hazardous in very hot weather, the tar melts a little making them slippery. Remember tar snakes and painted lines, extremely slippery when wet!
Thanks for this video Jerry. Training and practice can make anyone a skilled rider regardless of bike size, but a bigger bike does not improve the skills someone does not have, or has not mastered. I have been on bike since I was 5, and with a leisurely 45-60 mph ride through the countryside, practically any bike from a 100 to a 1500 will "keep up" just fine. It all comes down to the rider's skills and abilities which only improve with training and practice. At 55 I still ride a variety of my own bikes from a '64 Honda 150 Benly to an 1100 Goldwing, and on any back roads or rural highways I choose, with either bike. 60+ mph on the 150 isn't ideal for the highway, to say the least, but that is the Goldwing's strength. Tight, curvy 1-laners in the mountains are a bit tight on the 1100, and so the 150 is a blast. In some cases, smaller is better for country-driving as it keeps you out of trouble you might get into with a larger bike. For interstate highways I only use my Silverwing 500 or the Goldwing, just so I have a fighting chance to be seen by other drivers, and to escape trouble with relative ease. 40 years ago I could ride my 300 Honda on I-95 in Richmond without fear of being run over, but not these days. On the other hand, I could manage the Interstate now on as little as a 450 Nighthawk, I just don't like the environment or heavy traffic. I have been on bikes where "cheating death at 145 mph" seemed like fun, at the time, too. I don't like that kind of ride any more, even if I can do it, it doesn't follow that I should. I "ride for fun", too, but I want to get there and back in one piece, lol!
Very sage advice! Some people you just can't help!
In the corps they used to tell us "common sense is not a common virtue". Your intro reminded me of that.
and so how that applies in our current state of affairs
HoooRahhhh!!!!
Yeah I put four in the corp, myself. It is better to take his words to heart than to find out he was right by accident! . . . Heard Jerry saying things like where you look is where you go when it comes to turning?
Yeah, very nice little four-lane road which divided and circled this lake off 49th. St. Turned off a 22nd at the light it's pretty much by myself so I wanted to lay the bike over in those turns to see how it performed. Made it all the way around the lake and then I had to switch back with a sharp hairpin turn. About this time a guy in his ford dually was beside me in the turn. I was startled bumped off his duallys bike climbed up the side wall and I came down and it came down I was able to ride it out but shaking I had pulled across two lanes of traffic going the opposite direction, good thing nobody was on that side of the road! 😁
Thank you very much Jerry for the beautiful tour and the more important really urgent advise!
Cheers :-)
Glad it was helpful!
This guy is the man. His DVD videos made me a better rider than I ever thought i could be. His techniques work if you practice practice practice.
I’m proud of you for not saying I told you so. I enjoy these “story” videos.
Jerry. I know from your videos you ought to be a tough guy but, your talk during this one also shows your empathy and strong teaching skill. I would go as far as to say, I myself might be better off going back to elementary school (250cc) and master all the techniques you teach. Then slowly put all those skills through the ccs until I reach back to my current 1150RT. Although not feasible, one thing I humbly learned from this one, get the training ASAP and exhaust all the potential my current motorcycle has to offer before I transition out of it. Already contacted GLRLP to sign up as soon as their 2022 class start. Will keep you posted. Thanks for a sense of reality.
In July of 2008, I rode from California to Florida to Washington State to California. I was on the road for 29 days, and it rained on me every single day in every single state. What a ride. That rain kept my bike clean. I just wiped it down every day and it stayed clean for the entire trip. Riding in the rain isn't really a problem.
Excellent advice. I wish I lived in your area. I'd be taking some classes.
Ya ol gramps knows what he's talking about huh? An you'd get some good cop stories along the way!
Go to his website. He has classes all over the country.
He has locations all over the country!
I’m from Hong Kong and I watch your video a lot!
instagram.com/p/CH5qhrUhJiB/?igshid=19qvybvbm69w
I only ride for fun too , but I watch your videos and practice what you tell us !
Hey Jerry your videos really get me worked up with my lack of skills.
When things get back to normal I'll take a week vacation and take your course.
I just came across your videos, am a rider, but you offer amazing advice and techniques!
Every rider shoudl have your videos! Thank you!
There's only one thing I like more than watching your UA-cam videos, Jerry. And that is sharing them with my family and other riders. Thanks for that privilege. My VTX1800 says hi to The MotoMan.
Wow, thanks
Let us not forget about one's self, don't get the bigger bike thinking it will "help" your riding. I'm watching Jerry Palladino videos, learning new and better riding techniques. Most helpful TYVM
I ordered your 2 videos, Ride like a pro and Meanstreets. The following day you added another free one to that package. Lol. Day late. But who cares because I got the best 2 out there. I went to Walmart and got a bunch of tennis balls cut them in half like u said and I painted them bright orange. I also bought a big pack of smaller cones. I'm excited about learning. Today is my first day of practice at the college parking lot and I'm very excited. I'm not going out riding until I practice everyday for 2 weeks and as soon as I can do your excercises I'm going to take your personal course and have you tweak my skills. The college is 3 miles from me so I'm just going to ride there. Then I can take your class every year and continue to practice at least once or twice a week. Thank you for all you do and I'm so pleased to have found you. # we love the Motorman.
Hi Tracy...we didn't add another free one to the package New Ride Like a Pro and Shortcuts video. You get the free practice guide with those videos from us. Can you find the video you're speaking of?
Hello Jerry. You know what it was . You have so many videos out there I might have seen one of them. You know what your doing. I'm gonna chalk it up to me being a doofus. I have the 2 that I need to practice with and have them down so I can come to a class and have you tweak what I'm doing wrong. They have already made me so much more comfortable with riding. I will be scheduling your class at the end of October or beginning of November. If your doing classes then. Thank you for all your help and what you do. You really save lives. See you soon sir.
@@tracybowling4765 We have classes all year.
Thank you very much Jerry. Everything you said is so true. I'm 5' tall weighing 155. I've have had 6 bikes in my life so far. I started with a 250 Honda Dream and slowly went up to a Yamaha Roadstar 102"cu in. Like you say training training practice practice. I probably have only about 200k miles behind me but I keep learning. I'm 77yo and am looking for another bike. Thanks again for being so correctly informative.
Hats off to the lady there she sure can ride that bike, well done to her!!
I agree it's all skill. I went riding with guys who cant handle the big baggers but just lack the training.
Great video thanks for sharing ..Im trying to improve my turning skills on my 1988 heritage softail and these videos help..Your wife rides that bike like a pro..Good job.
Riding in the rai on secondary highways? If the road is worn from semi truck traffic stay out of the tire ruts at highway speeds as not to hydroplane!!! Old guy here speaking from experience. Great videos thanks for helping me learn to ride better after 40 plus years. i bought your set of DVD a few years back. When i tell some of the other old bikers that i bought a DVD set to learn how to ride better most are puzzled. Gotta smile about it.
Yes thank you, for being down to earth explaining techniques and a tour.Peace
Any time!
Great work here Jerry. Thank you.
Your first story in this video, troubles me. The selfishness of your friend, buying a second Harley, on the pretext that it was for his wife, when she was already struggling with a smaller bike, is scandalous.
But what is worse, is that she trusted his judgment, rode the new Harley and it almost cost her life. That's unforgivable.
I'll wager my life savings that the wife is completely unaware that her husband consulted you before the purchase or that you recommended training instead of going bigger.
Personally Jerry, I think that lady deserves to know the truth.
Just learning to ride and passed my m/c course on the schools Honda Rebel and boyfriend bought me a softail. I just do not feel comfortable on it yet. Instructor also said could be too much bike this soon. But of course I love the look of it!
I'm 54 member of CBA ABATE hickory NC. This video explained much that I'll never forget. I am planning with another member or two to hit the high schools on driver education classes and to help with education on lookout for motorcycles we are searching for videos and probably edit them but to be aware of 100% of your surroundings when you're in a cage I see too many people looking down at their cell phones at green lights and I have to blow my horn at them or they'll be generally driving with their eyes down not even paying attention to the road I started riding in 1983 all I had to worry about then was deer nowadays you got to add a lot more factors into it it's almost to a point where it's not enjoyable I ride solo a lot hell I'm 5 mph below the speed limit and I keep my hand and foot ready for the brakes constantly scanning not much time to look at scenery when you got to ride that defensive!
Just completed a 12 day journey in Italy! That was a humbling experience. I started riding at 15 now close to 70 where did the time go. Anyway most of the roads were small two lane roads twist and turns almost every 150-200 feet apart it showed what I need to work on . Both guides that rode with us had been riding Since they were 15-16 but they raced and ran schools for racing and street riding.
I started off as a kid on a minibike. I bought a Yamaha 1200 Deluxe a few months ago. I have rode bikes all my life and decided to buy this bike for a road trip of 3600 mile road trip. The only reason I bought this bike was for the air ride, cruse control and comfort. Enjoy your rides and ride with God.
Honestly, I have a BMW 1979 R65 (650cc), a BMW G650GS, and just got a BMW R1200GSA. My favorite is the G650GS. Honestly I have no issue keeping up, it's more fun in the 0-70 range, which is where most of my riding goes anyhow. The myth bigger is better is well implanted in the media!
My tip for getting caught and having to ride in the rain. Wear a helmet with a face shield! Either full or 3/4 with retractable face shield. Shields also lesson the sting from the hwy bug/beatles etc. Thanks for all your videos.
If it just started to rain, do yourself a favor and take a break. Oils on the road are going to be there just waiting to ruin your day. Let it rain a bit to wash them away. And keep an eye on your tread wear. The deeper the grooves on your tread the better they push water away avoiding hydroplaning.
Eh Jerry, I like your video postings here. Thanks for the good work of yours!
Glad you like them!
Great tips and good stories, riding in the rain can be tricky especially if there is oil or other chemicals on the road, Even going slow when you hit oily patches just after it has started raining you can loose grip on either tire. I try to not ride in the rain too but if you get caught in the rain be aware the road is more slippery if it has only just started to rain as oil residue is still on the surface of the road.
Love your educational and "common sense" videos. It's been 40 years since I road last... I had a 1979 Honda 750. Looking to pick up either a Harley Street Glide or an Indian Chieftain. Wanting to gain as much information and education as I can before I purchase my next motorcycle. Thanks for all that you do. Love your first name by the way!
Awesome! I should have watched this a month ago. I have a Suzuki Intruder VS800 and Hubs upgraded me to a Softail Deluxe because I wanted a larger bike (because of a trend💁🏽♀️). So now, I actively watch your exercise UA-cam videos for practicing of the techniques on both. Thinking about just practicing on the 800 to strengthen my low speed maneuvers....surely, you agree?
I took this rider's safety course in Central California. It was so helpful im glad I did it. Learned ots of helpful safety tips that I use till this day!!!! Main one I remeber is situation awareness and never ride the clutch.
Very good advice. Glad I watch this. Thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you Jerry and Donna for another great video. Your ongoing contributions to the skill and safety of the motorcycle riding community worldwide is incalculable. I have just about every DVD you've made available throughout the years, watch every UA-cam video you publish, and the skills I've developed and honed from your instructions (and others) are invaluable. I also appreciate your soft UA-cam intros where you don't assault and barrage the mind and senses with blaring sounds, images, crazy music...
I'd like to add some further tips for riding in the rain that Jerry brings up at the end of the video. This is from the 2008 Motorcops DVD I have entitled, "Basic Motor Officer Class," by then motor officers, Rob Grimsley and Timmy Glover: Have rain gear. First 15 - 20 minutes the road is slickest, so if you have a chance get to the side of the road, go under underpass, let debris and grime come off the surface, then continue. Try riding in the tire path of the vehicle in front of you, it displaces water on roadway for better traction. Decrease speed, increase following distance. Watch for slick surfaces such as draw bridges, manhole covers, roadway markings.
Jerry, great words of wisdom, thanks.
Very welcome
You are absolutely and 💯 pecent right. You need to train and practice to enjoy what you do.
PRACTICE MAKES YOU PERFECT.
👌👍 great video.
So true. I always try and practice more; the benefits are priceless and I get to ride more.
I just met a young 19 year old girl who bought an 1100 cc as her first bike. I cringed!
Amen! Training and practice. Practice your training whenever you ride.
Nice Riding by your Wife! Excellent Training!
Wholly agree - training is key to survival and brings greater appreciation of your skills and knowledge, as well as that of the bike and it's limits. Fair to say, if you are watching these videos, you'll already appreciate this fact.......
Good advice. Thank you for sharing.
My pleasure!
Wise words from a real pro!
Superb video and content, as usual. Thanks Jerry.
Here in the UK we sometimes don't get an option about riding in the rain. So we just get on with it, I just wish the car drivers had listened to your advice. Ride safe 💙
I've been riding for 50yrs and I'm going to order your video when I get home.
100% correct Sir every thing you say.
Training is the key.Another great video.
I'm 25 and just started riding, I bought a used Honda Nighthawk 250 and I love it! The only thing I dont love is that when I _need_ to go on longer, higher speed rides, the bike is very stressed and vibrate-y. I want to move up to a bike thats around 40-50hp BUT (apart from funds), I'm making it a point to not move up until I can fully tame the little 250.
love those nighthawks, make it a cafe racer!
@@jradish no, fuck that, cafes are stupid.
great video buddy that is awesome advice thanks for the story and the ride take care
Thanks for your efforts to keep us safe or I should say safer.
Awesome tips on how to ride safely and have fun!
Man i need to get some riding in this coming week... Only have a few more months then snow. Love these videos an have learned so much. Thank you
Glad you like them!
I'm 18 and I live in New zealand I'm on my motorcycle learners license, I ride a 2017 yamaha R3 which is a 321cc and I find that it's a perfect bike for me as I do alot of cornering on the way to work and I learn alot on that bike it does the perfect job for me
It is a sports bike
I started riding back in May of this year. I"m a bigger guy, 6' 3" 230+ lbs and ride a 250cc because I hadn't even touched a dirt bike in my life and put my ego aside and decided to go with something a bit slower to develop and master skills before moving up.
Good advices, soon i will buy Suzuki V strom 650, used to drive only scooter. Practising is on my mind every second and i looking forward to do it, good day Sir. 😎 🍀
Great video as always. Thanks for all you do for the riding community. Please do you have specific riding videos for the BMW R1200RT (I have the 2017 model). Many thanks
Very good points made in this video
Had a great private lesson today thanks again for your knowlege.
Very welcome
Hi wish I lived near by...would be in your class in a New York minute. However, on a positive note I took your advice and both/installed a softbrake reduce lever clutch and a softbrake back brake pedal. I am absolutely delighted with both and it could be my imagination but I swear my slow maneuver riding has improved and I feel much more comfortable on the bike. With regards to the back brake pedal I can comfortably cover the brake riding through the streets with comfort and security.
Thanks for reviewing these products
Andy Colon
O Fallon Il
Hey Jerry, just wanted to make a quick shout out, I'm from Ukraine and I'm watching your videos regularly. I wish I could one day be able to attend your class or the class of someone as good as you! Thanks for your videos, keep up the good work!
Thanks.
I am so glad I found this guy in Tampa Bay, I currently live in New Tampa
I bet you could book a big crowd over here in San Diego plus you could enjoy some of the twisty two laners we got
Roads in calf will be wide open soon. More people are leaving calf than coming in. More businesses are leaving too.
@@fredrickhaemker8434 I think your right. I f it weren't for the smoke and fire I'd never get off my bike . But the whole nation is under the great delusion . You can run but ?
Well. I don't ride a motorcycle. However I ride an ADDMOTOR ELECTRIC BIKE.
It looks like the old Harley Davidsons from anywhere from the 1930s - 1950s. The bike weighs a little over 100 lbs. .
So your training videos on you tube are good for me too.
Ive just discovered your channel and im really enjoying it. My husband is getting his first bike later this year and its not going to be anything bigger than a 300/400 cc. Here in Australia, learners are restricted with what they can ride for 3 years - up to 47bhp. Luckily he has the good sense to take my advice when i say a smaller cc bike is perfect for your first bike. We have been looking at the used bike sales ads. Theres an mt03 for sale with only 1000kms on it. The ad says im selling my girlfriends bike we bought a few months ago as shes ready for an upgrade! What? 1000kms of riding is now counted as real experience? Maybe just another case of a bloke wanting a second bike to ride who is willing to put his girlfriends safety at risk.
I love doing courses. Ive done 1 so far this year, and im doing the California Superbike School in December. They are so worthwhile.
That’s a sorry-ass story, but you’re right to tell it on your channel. Common sense is not always so common. Thanks MotorMan. 👍🏼
It's like me. I suck at playing guitar, so I buy more expensive ones.... And I still suck at it... in style 😎
😂 😂 😂 😂 😂
Awesome advice
As always good video, Motorman, the rockstar of motorcycle instruction... 🖤👽
to ride in the rain is like to ride in good weather... just wet ;-)
Coming off of super sport street bikes onto a Harley touring bike I definitely see a need for some training. Completely different handling and center of gravity
I learned to ride four years ago when I retired at age 66. I took a couple of riding classes and avoided the temptation to get a heavy powerful bike for my first bike. Bought a used Honda NC700x. Yes, it was slow but not too slow which, looking back, kept me out of trouble. Two years later I bought a Yamaha fj 09. Yes, it is fast but it is also very light. At my age, I have no intention of buying a 800+ pound bike; 500 lb is perfect. A good friend of mine has been riding for over 50 years. About five years ago he got rid of his 900 lb HD and got a Triumph Tiger 800. He still says it makes him feel like a kid again.
Thanks for posting this. Common sense ain't that common unfortunately.
Sorry about your friend and his wife .you have to know your limits and have confidence in yourself .I like my wife behind me I would constantly checking her , I don't need to say she owns a Harley too. She is happy on the back of my Harley and I'm happy to have her there . I hope your friend and his wife are ok. I'm 66years old and have owned many bikes over the years my first a 62 pan head bagger, I watch your channel and constantly learn little things that I either forgot or didn't know about thank you
What motorcycle jacket are you wearing motor man? Looks awesome
FirstGear jacket
Ride Like a Pro Jerry Palladino thanks motorman
I see an analogy with firearms: Even the tiniest person can master the most powerful cartridges, however that doesn't mean that a novice should be handed a 454 Casull with a 2 1/2" barrel and cut loose on the firing line. That person will end up being frightened and unhappy, and injury could result. I start new shooters with a mild chambering in a firearm that fits their hands well, and let the individual decide when to up the power, noise, and recoil and/or switch to a different type of gun. With bikes, start with a machine that fits the rider well, handles "light", and inspires confidence while learning the basics, then allow the rider to figure out if and when he or she wants to move to a larger machine.
Love the weather in Florida but the roads although smooth are not much fun. Up north jersey Ny state. Way better and more exciting to ride.