Join the DDFM Crew SMART Riders by using code "YTMembersYAYA" at checkout for 80% off your first month. ddfm.me/AcademyMembership . I want all of you to become SMART Riders and this training will help guide you there. If you don't need the training, but you have a friend that doesn't ride, go ahead and give them the coupon 😁.
My brother has never felt comfortable performing slow speed turns or U turns. We’ve both in our 60’s and have been riding motorcycles for decades. It’s time he learned the correct technique for performing an invaluable riding skill. Thanks for another informative video! 🏍
When I got my motorcycle license about 10 years ago I wanted to take a motorcycle safety course. My dad who had a motorcycle years ago but hadn't ridden over a decade thought it would be a fun father/son thing. He didn't really expect to learn anything new (stubborn old 74 year old man who had ridden for years etc.. lol) At the end of the weekend he was surprised at how much he had learned and how much confidence he acquired.
I just got my first motorcycle. The main issue I have is tight turning from a stop. I went to an open parking lot Saturday and started doing circles and figure 8s. This video is great. I'm going to practice this exercise. Thanks for this video!
I I just completed my classes today and we did this exercise, keeping the handlebars straight makes it alot more difficult. I wish I seen this also before. We all passed though.. Lol but this would have made it ALOT easier
It's awesome that I can tell you have a personal interest in actual helping people, a lot of the other MC vloggers/entertainers/educators are very self absorbed, or pretentious, rude and or full of condemnation for others. You have done a great job at only condemning the worst of behaviors and not people personally. "Push the handle bar down" is what I've been missing, Genuinely, thank you
Turning from a stop was my BIGGEST challenge since I’ve started riding, it’s kept me from taking my bike anywhere that was busy and this was the most helpful video ever 😂Thankyou man
Dan, I just want to thank you for your dedication to making so much content. I just started riding last month and despite having increased awareness from driving for 10 years, snowboarding for 18, years of experience mountain biking, dirt biking when I was younger, and skateboarding, there are still many things I wouldn’t have thought about had I not come across your videos. Even the MSF course is NOT enough in my opinion! Today on my way home, I turned onto my street and let my guard down for just a split second only to see a car backing out in front of me. I think the reason I didn’t see them was because they saw me, stopped before I finished turning, and the back end was sticking out almost exactly as much as a car parallel parked would be so it blended in. Long story short, since they saw me and the car was stopped, I don’t believe I was ever really in any danger in this particular situation, but my first instinct was still to swerve because I PRACTICED my emergency maneuvers A LOT! It is soooo important to just have it be second nature. Had the driver not been paying attention, there’s still a really good chance I would have been okay. It was bitter sweet because I should have been tuned in to potential hazards on the street right away after turning, but it was also cool to just experience my instincts kicking in and almost feeling like I just watched my bike and body just do its thing without any effort from my part. The hardest part of motorcycling to me so far is teaching myself not to take a breather just because I executed a turn safely or got through an intersection unscathed. There are always more hazards ahead to come and there’s never a right time to let your guard down at all.
I really need to commit at least one day to practicing low speed u-turns/figure 8's. I have no excuse, I've been riding for 9 years and there's a church parking lot right behind my house. Thanks for the inspiration DanDan!
I just got my first bike. Rode a few times near the house but never felt comfortable at slow speeds. This helped me so much. Just rode into town to get gas which I was afraid of before(stoplights, other cars, turning at intersections). Somehow I hadn’t seen any videos saying to use counter leaning during slow speed turns out of the hundreds I’ve watched. Thanks, Dan! This really has helped my confidence.
the more i see these excercises the more i realize I used to do all of these when riding my bycicle at 12-13 years old, even the countersteering when I was going fast on my bike. It's kind of beautiful, nobody ever told me (or us) all of these techniques or the physics involved in them, but it came naturally and subconciously when you learn how to ride a bike, it's like the bike becomes an extension of your body, you assume a second form, like a transformer lol, when you hop in on the bike. I'm 33 now and it's been ages since I rode a bike, but now that I purchased my first motorcycle, I hope those skills are still somewhere in my brain ready to be used again in an automatic, subconscious way
I just started riding for about a month now. This is one of the manoeuvres I am having difficulty with. This video has helped me a lot, so, thank you. Time to practice
Same. I can turn at stops but doing u turns or figure 8 is something im working on. Good thing my husband is patient with me. I can weave without touching cones so idk why I'm having a hard absorbing the skill
This is the maneuver that tripped me up in my course and caused me to fail. I don’t think I was understanding what my instructor was trying to tell me at the time but this really helped me understand. I’m definitely going to use this video to help me practice on my bike before I take my class again. Thank you for these videos they make learning how to ride a little less daunting.
@@t.acti.c yes I retook through a different organization. When I originally took it the gave me a 125 Suzuki cruiser that I did not feel comfortable on at at all, the second time I took it they gave me a Kawi Z125 and Honda Grom, passed with nearly a perfect score! Got my license in June and been riding since.
This is so good ! It's one thing to watch a video, but when I watch a video, practice it, then watch it again I can relate to the feeling of the movement and it makes way more sense.
Just started riding. All of the material from MSF booklet, DDFM, and PA motorcycle guide has really boosted my confidence that SEE works. And seeing this instruction on things to practice is going to be helpful to start my riding life!
I live these training videos. I pick my very first motorcycle tomorrow. I took the MSF course about a month ago. I so anxious and excited. I will definitely keep watch DDFM training videos.
Hey Dan, loving your channel. Really educational. I live in the Netherlands, and over here we have a three step progress before we are allowed to ride anything above 50cc. The first practical part is exactly this. Before we ever ride in traffic we must learn, and pass an exam, to handle the bike. Braking, tight turning, swerving, usually about 10-15 hours of practice time with an instructor. I really think these cources should be mandatory in more parts of the world. Could really save a lot of lives.
i just learned counter-weighting from u and i just got my licence to drive a motorcycle and even though they taught how to do "8" , they didn't teach me this stuff at all thx a lot
Hi Dan I’m a beginner rider . I’ve always wanted to ride a motorcycle so I’ve decided at 52 screw it im doing it ! I’ve purchased an e motorcycle to start with , it weighs close to 275 lbs. I appreciate the tips and lessons you are giving cause I can definitely apply them to my bike even though it’s an electric bike👍
Dan....with myself having 45 years riding experience, it's nice to see you putting out videos to help riders improve their skills, especially newbies. Learning and practicing should never stop for us. The one very important thing I noticed though is you were saying to push DOWN on the handlebar instead of push FORWARD on the handlebar. Pushing down on a handlebar does absolutely nothing (ask Jerry Paladino) and I hope you'll correct that in your video.
He is pushing down to help with counter weighting (pushing body weight to the opposite side)and not for leaning. So it’s OK I think. What Jerry says is about the lean angle. Pushing down does nothing.
Pushing down on the bars when attempting to counter-steer does nothing; agreed. This is a different situation though where the bike is being pushed down while leaning in the opposite side on a very slow manoeuvre. I already use this technique on small mini roundabouts in the UK and it definitely works.
I remember when this channel only had a few thousand subs. I am happy that youn have grown considerably. More importantly these vids are extremely educational. Love from Seoul
I've been riding for about 3 years now after a 30-year hiatus. For some reason I've always had a little bit of difficulty with slow u-turns. I do pretty good but I'm also a little bit too nervous. I think I worry I'm going to lay the bike down. Your videos help a lot. Stay safe!
I suffer from the same thing. I've noticed theres a certain lean angle at slow speed where it feels like the weight of the bike is overpowering its ability to stay upright. I try to use more counterbalance and avoid a full lock of the bars. Not sure if it helps or makes me feel more secure on the bike but, I only feel like I'm going to drop the bike every few attempts now, after about 2 weeks of backyard practice
We don't practice on an empty parking lots. We directly goes out on a Roads and whatever gonna happen .. just happened there. 😅 I mean doing mistakes like stalling, dropping the bike, etc.etc. sometimes does positive too like learning new skills, counter balancing etc. Actually here in INDIA.. As we all knows that our country is populated country ( 2nd Ranked as most populated country in the world ). So, We CANNOT find empty parking lot. 😢 Once again... Great tutorials video on motorcycle riding. Thank you... Wishing you all success... !!!! 😊 🙏🏻
This is a perfect video!!!! I did the course at H.D. in Panama city beach Florida, and I failed it because I'm no good at the tight turns from a stop, or the figure 8. I also got a cone on the emergency swerve! My first time on a motorcycle ever!! Now granted, instead of making the class leave 2 hours early and 40 % of the class failing, they could have kept the ones who needed it and kept training them. But it is what it is.
I passed the course somehow but the failure rate in my class of 12 was about 75% - fair I guess but harsh and didn't help much. Have no idea how I passed. 😂
@@saintroad exactly! They let me come back for free, 90 % of the people there were re rides, there was only 2 re rides that weren't from my class from before. The re ride class for some reason was actually more in depth and was way better at training first time riders than the first one!?
Thanks. I purchased a motorcycle even though no ones has taught me. I drive manual vehicles so clutch control is not difficult but doing turns or u turns is kinda difficult since I have only ridden my bike twice
I know you do motorcycle drills but I ride a genuine buddy kick 125 and I have been doing these drills. I am getting so much better but most important, more comfortable. Ty for doing these
Thank you Dan , we need more videos like this . Please no more about crashing or dramas at the traffic. As new riders is important to learn details and tips to react in a different situations, but is Perfect to be prepared with technical knowledge. And you have those good videos. We really need them. Thanks
Your videos are helping me out a lot I never been on a bike but I'm planning on getting myself a bike and begin my new chapter in life I've been searching a lot of information in the last 6months I can't wait to learn to ride just wanted to thank you for all your doing
These training videos are great. I checked out your progressive braking video a few weeks ago and since then I've been going to a local empty parking lot to practice it over and over. Gonna go do this and then tune in for your other videos when they're out.
Me, too. We were at an LDS church parking lot, this morning. Here on Amelia Island, Florida, it was nice that it was shady, too. It is part of the church’s teachings to experience what you can while you have your body here on Earth.
I whip into parking lots and do some quick training.Spending 5 minutes here and there adds up.Have a plan on what you want to work on and get it done.I also have an uphill street that I use to do U-turns and emergency braking/swerving.
Great video thanks! I've been riding legally now for 52 years and in that time, have had many different bikes. Slow speed stuff on an old BMW horizontally opposed twin (1978 RS100S) was soooo easy! A Honda 1100 V4? My last Buell? 🤯. Others varied... Your videos will hopefully save many elbows, egos and handlebar levers. I learn something, (or remember!) with every one I watch. Thanks. Anyone can learn how to "control" a bike from a friend or even a book, but learning to "ride" requires a different skill set. You really help with that. Thanks for sharing!
The BRC emergency counter steering deillbhas definitely come in handy. I would recommend learning it on every bike you have, of course it's easier to swerve on a Sportbike other than cruiser.
You could also angle your bike the direction you're going to be turning before you stop at the line / stop sign / intersection (on a red)... blocking technique that also makes you more visible to traffic behind you, and you're at an angle where it's easy to accelerate and get into a good lane position.
I actually just finished my riding coarse. Unfortunately I didn't pass. I will be going back in for a private lesson to try again for my endorsement. Low speed turns are what did me in. So this will be helpful when I do my lesson next week.
Pat Walker sucks man me and my bud have been lucky and we’ve practiced at a Mall on a busy weekend but practiced in a section of the mall parking lot that is empty and have had security come up to us and have told us that they’ve been watching us through their security cameras and just came to tell us that it’s ok for us to do what we do. They obviously know that we are just there to practice and improve which they’ve told us. Also came to tell us to just keep the speeds low and both wheels on the ground 😂 I watch DDTFM and MotoJitsu for tips and tricks and that’s why we practice cause of these two
@@DanDanTheFireman Currently in my area they have police patrols. If they are not convinced that what you are doing is neccessary, they will fine you. There also have been arrests and detentions. As a motorcyclist you may even have to explain when you go buy some food. Washing a vehicle in a car wash also became a misdemeanor.
Yeah, here in WA if the cops show up they're cool with practicing and all, but they say you need to have the owner's permission. So you have to rotate around before they recognize you, lol.
Great video thank you very much, had a good go of it at a Parking lot earlier on today! Definitely think you can't beat practicing slow riding skills. Many thanks Martin.
I find locking the handle bar into a turn is my hardest skill to learn. I am committing to put more time in this year to get that down!!! Thank you for this!!
As a new rider I can’t tell you how helpful this video was. I wonder if you have any idea how many lives you have saved with your awesome channel. Thank you.
Having my first 600cc (cbr f4) bike im finding the weight and size increase a little bit of a game changer , especially when riding round roundabouts and taking right angle turns at junctions , definitely going to use this information , thank you !
Riding a'87 venture. Still working on a '18 figure 8. Still putting my foot down. I know the bike can do it. The angle is still frightening . This bike is mint....
I thought myself just fine on my old light honda rebel, but now that I'm on a much bigger and heavier cruiser, I need these tips. Thanks for putting it together. Felt like an idiot trying to do a tight u-turn last night and running off the road into a driveway.
1:12 Tennis balls are yellow. I'm colorblind and you saying they were green freaked me a little. It turns out that there's science behind why they are often perceived as green.
Learning how to ride at 49. Today I tried a slow left turn and pretty much laid the bike down and ended up stumbling off the bike into the ditch. My stepson is coming to help me with turns. Your videos are very helpful. Thanks
I watched this, then went to our HS parking lot and started in. It all went very smooth, did 4 left and four rights, very tight too. I thought “this is so easy”! Went to do a few more, started with a left turn, turned bars to left, looked left, pushed down ever so slightly, counter balancing, and the bike went down before I could start slipping the clutch! Oh my, I was a alone with my Africa Twin on the ground, with no crash bars to give it a little lift off the ground. It’s heavy, I’m old, but I didn’t panic, I’d watched videos on how to get it up, but bike was so flat and the ground so smooth, I wasn’t able to back-walk it up. A concerned citizen then pulled up and we got it upright no problem. Only thing hurt was my ego, only damage was the hand guard and my clutch lever. I still don’t quite know what step I left out that one time. I had been doing lots of (MCrider lesson) stops, u-turns, and figure eights up to this time without a hitch. I wonder why I dumped on the simple turn. Should have had a cam, right? Would have been solved. But I’m going to have to put lessons off until I can get some lower crash bars to give the bike enough lift to get under it. I have to say it shook my confidence too. I’m going to have to have a spotter with me.
@@Turco949 of course not. Never, ever touch the front brake when you are turning. It will take you down so fast. but using the rear brake, it helps stabilize the bike at slow speeds. I've taken 2 motor officer training courses and it's a godsend to use a little rear brake. Unfortunately, after day 2 or 3, you aren't allowed to use it anymore and you have to use friction zone only.
@@Turco949 I strongly disagree. I use BOTH the front and rear brakes. First two fingers on the brake lever, the outside 2 fingers around the throttle. Only 2 fingers on the clutch. This way you have complete control of the bars. Dragging the brakes stiffens the suspension, so it adds stability. Having the front brake under slight tension does more than double the control of just the rear brake alone. Pay attention to your road surface so you don't lock the front wheel. Again, you are only dragging the lever, not really braking. Rather than talking about using the friction zone, I fully pulsewidth modulate the clutch. Short bursts of energy are easy to control. You don't have to worry about where the clutch will engage or feeling the variability in clutch traction. I drive heavy bikes, so unless the engine is spinning fairly high RPM, it does not have enough power to straighten the bike up quickly. Spin the engine and modulate the clutch. I don't normally use this for everyday taking off from a stop, but rather just for making slow speed turns.
@@Daveinet if you're not a motor officer, you really don't know what you are talking about. Using the front brake in turns should only be done at higher speeds when you are trail braking and very light pressure, not at slow speeds!!! If you don't believe me, ask Jerry Paladino (ride like a pro)
@@0873sp I've done both. Light drag on the front brake helps in addition to the rear brake. I don't need to be paid (pro) to have skill. I have several 100,000 miles under my belt, mostly in Chicago traffic on a Goldwing. I've driven the DMV motorcycle maneuverability test with a 250+ lbs passenger on the back on the Goldwing. Drove through it the first time with no trouble. In normal daily driving I rarely put my feet down. I've just taught myself to balance the bike. OK, for a red light, yes I will put my feet down, but for stop signs, stop and go traffic, waiting for oncoming traffic so I can make a left hand turn. Years ago I was working in Chicago and living in the burbs. The daily trek was boring, so to make it interesting, I taught myself to balance the bike in rush hour stop and go traffic every day on the Ike. After several seasons of doing this, you get pretty good at it and learn what works. I two finger brake and two finger clutch. My outside and baby finger grips the bar. This way I have a full grip of the bar with both hands and have complete throttle control, braking and clutch all at the same time. Independent control of each of those, plus the rear brake is how it is done. Dragging the front brake helps the bike to stand up. Most people are not going to use the front brake as they have not learned to independently control the throttle and the front brake at the same time. Once you train yourself and develop the strength and dexterity in your fingers, you will discover how much it helps to drag the front brake too. I should point out that the speed I'm talking about is probably much slower than most people can ride a bike in a straight line, let alone in a tight corner. And of course I need to mention to anyone who has not ridden much, when you drag the front brake, you need to pay attention to the road surface. Grit, gravel, or oil will cause you to dump the bike. Even on a good surface, you are dragging the brake with variable pressure based on available traction. The fact is, at slow speeds, the bike is almost upright, so you are not as likely to go down anyway. I've only dropped a bike once using the front brake, and that was 35 years ago, and I was not in a corner. But I have squealed the front tire in a corner on several occasions. Even driven off the tread, which is always interesting. Twice on my old CX500, once on my Pacific Coast.
It is indeed a very nice looking bike. That said, Victory and Indian motorcycles are made by Polaris. I'd caution you on buying one as they are not the most reliable bikes and their warranty service reputation is not that great. I know of a few new Indian owners and they took their bikes in for warranty service quite a few times in the bikes first few years even. Much like a car model, when a manufacturer comes up with a brand new model, I'd suggest you wait a few years before buying that particular vehicle so if there were any major issues, they get worked out.
Just passed my msf course yesterday they encouraged us to take 3 power steps when taking off, even when making a turn from a stop. Is this something you’re meant to out grow? It felt very comfortable doing it that way. Thank you for this content! It helps guide my practice so i can be as prepared as I can be, enabling to enjoy riding as much as I can!
Good info applies as well to my Maxi Scoot, a Burgman 400 - I follow your vids pretty consistently and haven't seen any of the bigger more road worthy scoots anywhere yet but I'll keep at it. I'm an older rider now at 66 and have the time to learn more from you here. Thanks for posting!
After learning to never pull away without looking in your blind spots left and right, not to hit any cones doing MOD1 in UK, I am mortified, amused and entertained at the blasphemy of flattening the cones every time and not one look, good video regardless with useful info.
We use this in police motors, commonly referred to as the 90 degree pull out. You should try it left and right, using the friction zone and correct foot placement when going either direction. Right foot down, when going right and left foot down when going left.
Hey Dan. Been watching for a while. I'm just learning to ride for the first time. Thank you for all the great videos and telling us all to put on our gear even for low speed practice. I laid my bike down at slow speed yesterday and jammed up my thumb, but I had on my gloves and everything. I can bet it would have been worse without it 👍
Tight turn from a stop and figure 8s were the bane of my existence during my MSF, I struggled as a kid to turn left on a bicycle and would rather make a big right turn until i end up on the left, can't believe that problem still exists over a decade later 😅
Great video. I needed help. I live in the UK, so we ride on the opposite side of the road. I passed my test 8 years ago and I have built up a lot of experience. I have done touring rides, raced on track, fast rides on mountain roads and covered more than 30,000 miles. I can do everything well on a motorcycle EXCEPT one thing....turning right (on to the opposite side of the road) from a junction. In order to make this work I have to arrive at the junction with my bike partially turned in that direction otherwise I wont make the turn, god knows why.
Dont forget about turning angle and turning radius, its critical during tight turn... keep up the good training... Sincerely from Rapid Intervention Motorcycle Team Malaysia
Alright DanDan. I’ve been riding for 20 years but your videos along with motojitsu have convinced me. I’ve bought some msf training cones and will be doing slow speed drills. I happen to have a shut down casino nearby, so I have like 3000 empty parking spaces. Maybe more?
I've been riding for about 3 months now, and I still sweat turning from a stop while on a hill. It's really bad when the road is also leaning to one side and ive been giving it gas just to not roll backwards. I actually tipped my bike over once at a light, I was leaning in a weird way im not used to and the bike just fell over and I had to pick it up quickly because people were behind me trying to go lol. Thanks for making these videos, they've helped give me pointers as Im learning still. and like you pointed out before, this is probably the most dangerous part of being a new rider, right when you arent scared of riding anywhere, but still dont have a skill level high enough to not panic when there's trouble. Thanks bro.
Hey man. We're all learning here and the point is to get better. Join us on the discord and ask any question you want and we will help. Discord.gg/DanDanTheFireman
This is what I learned to do: Apply and hold rear brake Slowly let out clutch When you feel the clutch grab slowly release rear break and increase throttle / release clutch as normal. Trying to engage the clutch going uphill without rear brake assist can be done, but it sucks. It also gets harder the more the incline. Once I got the feel for using the rear brake to stop rollback until the friction zone hit, it became a lot easier. Just do a little practice on straight uphill to get the feel, then you can do it with uphill turns. That's what I did. Good luck!
The best thing my MSF teacher ever told me was that your brain always wants to line your nose up with the rest of your body. After a couple rides, your brain also treats the bike like an extension of itself, so for maximum control, always point your nose (look) at where you want the bike to be. This has not only saved me trouble on my bike, but also in cars.
All of this is standard examined when you want to get your license if you life in the Netherlands. In turns, look at where you want to go. In straights, look at the horizon. This gives you the most stability for every practice..
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Can you make a video on shoulder checking and lane changing?
J
How do you make a right turn w8th out stopping?
Like at a green light
Thank you, finally somebody who show and tell not only WHAT to do but also HOW, thank you.
My brother has never felt comfortable performing slow speed turns or U turns. We’ve both in our 60’s and have been riding motorcycles for decades. It’s time he learned the correct technique for performing an invaluable riding skill. Thanks for another informative video! 🏍
wtf
When I got my motorcycle license about 10 years ago I wanted to take a motorcycle safety course. My dad who had a motorcycle years ago but hadn't ridden over a decade thought it would be a fun father/son thing. He didn't really expect to learn anything new (stubborn old 74 year old man who had ridden for years etc.. lol) At the end of the weekend he was surprised at how much he had learned and how much confidence he acquired.
Same here Grant. Started riding in 1977. 65 now and just learning this stuff.
WE'RE NEVER TO OLD TO LEARN
@@bigdaddysshop8180 whoooaa...I've got my first bike now @65 thank you guys I am not too late!!
I just got my first motorcycle. The main issue I have is tight turning from a stop. I went to an open parking lot Saturday and started doing circles and figure 8s. This video is great. I'm going to practice this exercise. Thanks for this video!
I wish I had seen this before I took the MSF. All went well, but these tips would have made the learning process much easier.
I have mine in September, I’ll be practicing this stuff Sunday morning at the local park parking lot.
I I just completed my classes today and we did this exercise, keeping the handlebars straight makes it alot more difficult. I wish I seen this also before. We all passed though.. Lol but this would have made it ALOT easier
Exactly!
It's awesome that I can tell you have a personal interest in actual helping people, a lot of the other MC vloggers/entertainers/educators are very self absorbed, or pretentious, rude and or full of condemnation for others.
You have done a great job at only condemning the worst of behaviors and not people personally.
"Push the handle bar down" is what I've been missing,
Genuinely, thank you
Where were you 24 hours ago during my test!! I failed and bawled the whole way home! But… I’m still going to practice and go again!😊
Sorry and I am sure by now you are a rider
Turning from a stop was my BIGGEST challenge since I’ve started riding, it’s kept me from taking my bike anywhere that was busy and this was the most helpful video ever 😂Thankyou man
Dan, I just want to thank you for your dedication to making so much content. I just started riding last month and despite having increased awareness from driving for 10 years, snowboarding for 18, years of experience mountain biking, dirt biking when I was younger, and skateboarding, there are still many things I wouldn’t have thought about had I not come across your videos.
Even the MSF course is NOT enough in my opinion!
Today on my way home, I turned onto my street and let my guard down for just a split second only to see a car backing out in front of me. I think the reason I didn’t see them was because they saw me, stopped before I finished turning, and the back end was sticking out almost exactly as much as a car parallel parked would be so it blended in.
Long story short, since they saw me and the car was stopped, I don’t believe I was ever really in any danger in this particular situation, but my first instinct was still to swerve because I PRACTICED my emergency maneuvers A LOT!
It is soooo important to just have it be second nature. Had the driver not been paying attention, there’s still a really good chance I would have been okay.
It was bitter sweet because I should have been tuned in to potential hazards on the street right away after turning, but it was also cool to just experience my instincts kicking in and almost feeling like I just watched my bike and body just do its thing without any effort from my part.
The hardest part of motorcycling to me so far is teaching myself not to take a breather just because I executed a turn safely or got through an intersection unscathed. There are always more hazards ahead to come and there’s never a right time to let your guard down at all.
Glad to see trainng stuff rather than just crashes. Great video!!
I want more of these!
@@sarag1158 he created a whole channel for this called Motorcycle Training Concepts. That channel is all on-bike and this One is for crash reviews.
I really need to commit at least one day to practicing low speed u-turns/figure 8's. I have no excuse, I've been riding for 9 years and there's a church parking lot right behind my house. Thanks for the inspiration DanDan!
I just got my first bike. Rode a few times near the house but never felt comfortable at slow speeds. This helped me so much. Just rode into town to get gas which I was afraid of before(stoplights, other cars, turning at intersections). Somehow I hadn’t seen any videos saying to use counter leaning during slow speed turns out of the hundreds I’ve watched. Thanks, Dan! This really has helped my confidence.
the more i see these excercises the more i realize I used to do all of these when riding my bycicle at 12-13 years old, even the countersteering when I was going fast on my bike. It's kind of beautiful, nobody ever told me (or us) all of these techniques or the physics involved in them, but it came naturally and subconciously when you learn how to ride a bike, it's like the bike becomes an extension of your body, you assume a second form, like a transformer lol, when you hop in on the bike. I'm 33 now and it's been ages since I rode a bike, but now that I purchased my first motorcycle, I hope those skills are still somewhere in my brain ready to be used again in an automatic, subconscious way
I'm 32, want to learn a good cheap but cool bike. What did you buy?
I was thinking the exact same thing the other day. Its weird how similar it can be.
I just started riding for about a month now. This is one of the manoeuvres I am having difficulty with. This video has helped me a lot, so, thank you. Time to practice
Same. I can turn at stops but doing u turns or figure 8 is something im working on. Good thing my husband is patient with me. I can weave without touching cones so idk why I'm having a hard absorbing the skill
This is the maneuver that tripped me up in my course and caused me to fail. I don’t think I was understanding what my instructor was trying to tell me at the time but this really helped me understand. I’m definitely going to use this video to help me practice on my bike before I take my class again. Thank you for these videos they make learning how to ride a little less daunting.
Did you end up retaking and passing? I also failed mine due to this.
@@t.acti.c yes I retook through a different organization. When I originally took it the gave me a 125 Suzuki cruiser that I did not feel comfortable on at at all, the second time I took it they gave me a Kawi Z125 and Honda Grom, passed with nearly a perfect score! Got my license in June and been riding since.
@@laurenm4004 they had me on a honda rebel 🥲
so nice of you to make a video on how to park a motorcycle for blind people / people who have never ridden a bicycle before.
Props to you.
This is so good ! It's one thing to watch a video, but when I watch a video, practice it, then watch it again I can relate to the feeling of the movement and it makes way more sense.
Just started riding. All of the material from MSF booklet, DDFM, and PA motorcycle guide has really boosted my confidence that SEE works. And seeing this instruction on things to practice is going to be helpful to start my riding life!
This is super important for those turns into openings into gas stations, parking lots, or even in or out of the drive way. Thank you for this.
Getting my head turned before I make that sharp left or right is the thing that helps me the most.
Same goes for me
More of this kind of stuff please, this is super helpful as a new rider!
I live these training videos. I pick my very first motorcycle tomorrow. I took the MSF course about a month ago. I so anxious and excited. I will definitely keep watch DDFM training videos.
I honestly never thought of the tennis ball idea as cones, looks like I'll pick some up for my dog and me.
*cutting tennis balls*
Dog:"WTF?!"
Hey Dan, loving your channel. Really educational. I live in the Netherlands, and over here we have a three step progress before we are allowed to ride anything above 50cc. The first practical part is exactly this. Before we ever ride in traffic we must learn, and pass an exam, to handle the bike. Braking, tight turning, swerving, usually about 10-15 hours of practice time with an instructor. I really think these cources should be mandatory in more parts of the world. Could really save a lot of lives.
i just learned counter-weighting from u and i just got my licence to drive a motorcycle and even though they taught how to do "8" , they didn't teach me this stuff at all thx a lot
I watched this video twice, trying to pay attention to all the details. Will try it tonight. Thank you for the great video. You explained very well!
Hi Dan
I’m a beginner rider . I’ve always wanted to ride a motorcycle so I’ve decided at 52 screw it im doing it !
I’ve purchased an e motorcycle to start with , it weighs close to 275 lbs. I appreciate the tips and lessons you are giving cause I can definitely apply them to my bike even though it’s an electric bike👍
This is my current goal. Really want to master it, so much.
Dan....with myself having 45 years riding experience, it's nice to see you putting out videos to help riders improve their skills, especially newbies. Learning and practicing should never stop for us. The one very important thing I noticed though is you were saying to push DOWN on the handlebar instead of push FORWARD on the handlebar. Pushing down on a handlebar does absolutely nothing (ask Jerry Paladino) and I hope you'll correct that in your video.
He is pushing down to help with counter weighting (pushing body weight to the opposite side)and not for leaning. So it’s OK I think. What Jerry says is about the lean angle. Pushing down does nothing.
Pushing down on the bars when attempting to counter-steer does nothing; agreed. This is a different situation though where the bike is being pushed down while leaning in the opposite side on a very slow manoeuvre. I already use this technique on small mini roundabouts in the UK and it definitely works.
just got my r3, first bike and a student. this channel helping a lot!!! subbed
Just bought my first Harley 4 days ago and am really benefitting from your videos. Thank you for taking the time to make these!!
I remember when this channel only had a few thousand subs. I am happy that youn have grown considerably. More importantly these vids are extremely educational. Love from Seoul
I've been riding for about 3 years now after a 30-year hiatus. For some reason I've always had a little bit of difficulty with slow u-turns. I do pretty good but I'm also a little bit too nervous. I think I worry I'm going to lay the bike down. Your videos help a lot. Stay safe!
I suffer from the same thing. I've noticed theres a certain lean angle at slow speed where it feels like the weight of the bike is overpowering its ability to stay upright. I try to use more counterbalance and avoid a full lock of the bars. Not sure if it helps or makes me feel more secure on the bike but, I only feel like I'm going to drop the bike every few attempts now, after about 2 weeks of backyard practice
Same here. Wish we had UA-cam back then. I had no idea how bad of a rider I used to be.
@@syanheart3178 is it because your bikes are too heavy
In the turn from stop, I’d suggest the head look both ways before moving to check for traffic coming.
Build that muscle memory.
We don't practice on an empty parking lots. We directly goes out on a Roads and whatever gonna happen .. just happened there. 😅
I mean doing mistakes like stalling, dropping the bike, etc.etc. sometimes does positive too like learning new skills, counter balancing etc.
Actually here in INDIA.. As we all knows that our country is populated country ( 2nd Ranked as most populated country in the world ). So, We CANNOT find empty parking lot. 😢
Once again... Great tutorials video on motorcycle riding.
Thank you...
Wishing you all success... !!!!
😊
🙏🏻
I also rarely find an empty parking lot in Europe. It seems that Americans park on the highways and leave their parking lots empty.
This is a perfect video!!!! I did the course at H.D. in Panama city beach Florida, and I failed it because I'm no good at the tight turns from a stop, or the figure 8. I also got a cone on the emergency swerve! My first time on a motorcycle ever!! Now granted, instead of making the class leave 2 hours early and 40 % of the class failing, they could have kept the ones who needed it and kept training them. But it is what it is.
I passed the course somehow but the failure rate in my class of 12 was about 75% - fair I guess but harsh and didn't help much. Have no idea how I passed. 😂
@@saintroad exactly! They let me come back for free, 90 % of the people there were re rides, there was only 2 re rides that weren't from my class from before. The re ride class for some reason was actually more in depth and was way better at training first time riders than the first one!?
Thanks. I purchased a motorcycle even though no ones has taught me. I drive manual vehicles so clutch control is not difficult but doing turns or u turns is kinda difficult since I have only ridden my bike twice
I know you do motorcycle drills but I ride a genuine buddy kick 125 and I have been doing these drills. I am getting so much better but most important, more comfortable. Ty for doing these
Thank you Dan , we need more videos like this . Please no more about crashing or dramas at the traffic. As new riders is important to learn details and tips to react in a different situations, but is Perfect to be prepared with technical knowledge. And you have those good videos. We really need them. Thanks
Your videos are helping me out a lot I never been on a bike but I'm planning on getting myself a bike and begin my new chapter in life I've been searching a lot of information in the last 6months I can't wait to learn to ride just wanted to thank you for all your doing
These training videos are great. I checked out your progressive braking video a few weeks ago and since then I've been going to a local empty parking lot to practice it over and over.
Gonna go do this and then tune in for your other videos when they're out.
Started to counterweight and it changed my life. Thanks.
I'm buying my first bike very soon, definitely going to spend a lot of time doing this type of stuff in parking lots
Haha, I knew it from the start... An LDS chapel parking lot. That's my choice for practice, too.
Me, too. We were at an LDS church parking lot, this morning. Here on Amelia Island, Florida, it was nice that it was shady, too. It is part of the church’s teachings to experience what you can while you have your body here on Earth.
I've been doing this naturally all this time, I didn't know it's a correct technique to turn a bike. It's really intuitive to do so. 👍
Just got my first bike and I am so happy I found your channel!
I whip into parking lots and do some quick training.Spending 5 minutes here and there adds up.Have a plan on what you want to work on and get it done.I also have an uphill street that I use to do U-turns and emergency braking/swerving.
Great video thanks!
I've been riding legally now for 52 years and in that time, have had many different bikes.
Slow speed stuff on an old BMW horizontally opposed twin (1978 RS100S) was soooo easy! A Honda 1100 V4? My last Buell? 🤯.
Others varied...
Your videos will hopefully save many elbows, egos and handlebar levers.
I learn something, (or remember!) with every one I watch. Thanks.
Anyone can learn how to "control" a bike from a friend or even a book, but learning to "ride" requires a different skill set. You really help with that. Thanks for sharing!
THANKS FOR THE VIDS! Got my first bike 2 weeks ago. I wasn't ready for the slow stuff to be harder than the high speed stuff.
You are a professional biker
Thanks for sharing this and it’s very helpful for others especially those are new on motorcycles
Thanks - tomorrow morning EST I will work on this more, and get back to you with my progress -
Just passed my msf, definitely going to be doing these as much as possible to improve.
it's nice to see you doing this kind of teaching again.
The BRC emergency counter steering deillbhas definitely come in handy. I would recommend learning it on every bike you have, of course it's easier to swerve on a Sportbike other than cruiser.
You could also angle your bike the direction you're going to be turning before you stop at the line / stop sign / intersection (on a red)... blocking technique that also makes you more visible to traffic behind you, and you're at an angle where it's easy to accelerate and get into a good lane position.
Common sense water
Got driving test on Tuesday this is exactly what I needed thx
Good luck man if you look to youtube you can see others pass the test in your future :)
Ex: georgia motorcycle test
Showed me what to expect. !
I actually just finished my riding coarse. Unfortunately I didn't pass. I will be going back in for a private lesson to try again for my endorsement. Low speed turns are what did me in. So this will be helpful when I do my lesson next week.
I recommend taking the MSF course I took mine when I was 16 years old they all cover these things and those are all in the final road test
Watching these videos just hype me up for my next practice. Cause I know have a lot more things to learn
These exercises are so helpful Dan. Keep at it.
Glad i've found this video.. really struggling turning right where im almost had a crash always.. thank you.. Godbless and stay safe...
About to take my HD rider course. I'm so excited. Thanks so much for all of the videos you put out, brother. Very helpful.
So envious. I want to do some drills, but I've been chased out of every school, church and shopping center parking lot in my area.
Oh wow. For practicing?
@@DanDanTheFireman Yup. Just want to set up 5 cones for Alt-most offset slow speed slalom. Lots are completely empty but here comes security.
Pat Walker sucks man me and my bud have been lucky and we’ve practiced at a Mall on a busy weekend but practiced in a section of the mall parking lot that is empty and have had security come up to us and have told us that they’ve been watching us through their security cameras and just came to tell us that it’s ok for us to do what we do. They obviously know that we are just there to practice and improve which they’ve told us. Also came to tell us to just keep the speeds low and both wheels on the ground 😂 I watch DDTFM and MotoJitsu for tips and tricks and that’s why we practice cause of these two
@@DanDanTheFireman Currently in my area they have police patrols. If they are not convinced that what you are doing is neccessary, they will fine you. There also have been arrests and detentions. As a motorcyclist you may even have to explain when you go buy some food.
Washing a vehicle in a car wash also became a misdemeanor.
Yeah, here in WA if the cops show up they're cool with practicing and all, but they say you need to have the owner's permission. So you have to rotate around before they recognize you, lol.
awesome, just found your channel. I commute on bike everyday to work, your videos focusing on street riding will benefit me a lot
Great video thank you very much, had a good go of it at a Parking lot earlier on today! Definitely think you can't beat practicing slow riding skills. Many thanks Martin.
I find locking the handle bar into a turn is my hardest skill to learn. I am committing to put more time in this year to get that down!!! Thank you for this!!
Hi, i tried this today, but could not find the balance point.
Now i gonna try it again with push down more...b👍👍
As a new rider I can’t tell you how helpful this video was. I wonder if you have any idea how many lives you have saved with your awesome channel. Thank you.
Thank you and thank you for your service as a firefighter
Having my first 600cc (cbr f4) bike im finding the weight and size increase a little bit of a game changer , especially when riding round roundabouts and taking right angle turns at junctions , definitely going to use this information , thank you !
Riding a'87 venture. Still working on a '18 figure 8. Still putting my foot down. I know the bike can do it. The angle is still frightening . This bike is mint....
I thought myself just fine on my old light honda rebel, but now that I'm on a much bigger and heavier cruiser, I need these tips. Thanks for putting it together. Felt like an idiot trying to do a tight u-turn last night and running off the road into a driveway.
1:12 Tennis balls are yellow. I'm colorblind and you saying they were green freaked me a little. It turns out that there's science behind why they are often perceived as green.
Learning how to ride at 49. Today I tried a slow left turn and pretty much laid the bike down and ended up stumbling off the bike into the ditch. My stepson is coming to help me with turns. Your videos are very helpful. Thanks
Lemme guess you gave up
I watched this, then went to our HS parking lot and started in. It all went very smooth, did 4 left and four rights, very tight too. I thought “this is so easy”! Went to do a few more, started with a left turn, turned bars to left, looked left, pushed down ever so slightly, counter balancing, and the bike went down before I could start slipping the clutch! Oh my, I was a alone with my Africa Twin on the ground, with no crash bars to give it a little lift off the ground. It’s heavy, I’m old, but I didn’t panic, I’d watched videos on how to get it up, but bike was so flat and the ground so smooth, I wasn’t able to back-walk it up. A concerned citizen then pulled up and we got it upright no problem. Only thing hurt was my ego, only damage was the hand guard and my clutch lever. I still don’t quite know what step I left out that one time.
I had been doing lots of (MCrider lesson) stops, u-turns, and figure eights up to this time without a hitch. I wonder why I dumped on the simple turn. Should have had a cam, right? Would have been solved. But I’m going to have to put lessons off until I can get some lower crash bars to give the bike enough lift to get under it. I have to say it shook my confidence too. I’m going to have to have a spotter with me.
Hey Dan, one thing you don't mention is a little pressure on the rear brake to help stabilize.
Yup, agreed. Rare brake only to control speed. In slow turns, especially when counter-weight method is used, FRONT brake should NEVER be touched!
@@Turco949 of course not. Never, ever touch the front brake when you are turning. It will take you down so fast. but using the rear brake, it helps stabilize the bike at slow speeds. I've taken 2 motor officer training courses and it's a godsend to use a little rear brake. Unfortunately, after day 2 or 3, you aren't allowed to use it anymore and you have to use friction zone only.
@@Turco949 I strongly disagree. I use BOTH the front and rear brakes. First two fingers on the brake lever, the outside 2 fingers around the throttle. Only 2 fingers on the clutch. This way you have complete control of the bars. Dragging the brakes stiffens the suspension, so it adds stability. Having the front brake under slight tension does more than double the control of just the rear brake alone. Pay attention to your road surface so you don't lock the front wheel. Again, you are only dragging the lever, not really braking.
Rather than talking about using the friction zone, I fully pulsewidth modulate the clutch. Short bursts of energy are easy to control. You don't have to worry about where the clutch will engage or feeling the variability in clutch traction. I drive heavy bikes, so unless the engine is spinning fairly high RPM, it does not have enough power to straighten the bike up quickly. Spin the engine and modulate the clutch. I don't normally use this for everyday taking off from a stop, but rather just for making slow speed turns.
@@Daveinet if you're not a motor officer, you really don't know what you are talking about. Using the front brake in turns should only be done at higher speeds when you are trail braking and very light pressure, not at slow speeds!!!
If you don't believe me, ask Jerry Paladino (ride like a pro)
@@0873sp I've done both. Light drag on the front brake helps in addition to the rear brake. I don't need to be paid (pro) to have skill. I have several 100,000 miles under my belt, mostly in Chicago traffic on a Goldwing. I've driven the DMV motorcycle maneuverability test with a 250+ lbs passenger on the back on the Goldwing. Drove through it the first time with no trouble. In normal daily driving I rarely put my feet down. I've just taught myself to balance the bike. OK, for a red light, yes I will put my feet down, but for stop signs, stop and go traffic, waiting for oncoming traffic so I can make a left hand turn. Years ago I was working in Chicago and living in the burbs. The daily trek was boring, so to make it interesting, I taught myself to balance the bike in rush hour stop and go traffic every day on the Ike. After several seasons of doing this, you get pretty good at it and learn what works. I two finger brake and two finger clutch. My outside and baby finger grips the bar. This way I have a full grip of the bar with both hands and have complete throttle control, braking and clutch all at the same time. Independent control of each of those, plus the rear brake is how it is done. Dragging the front brake helps the bike to stand up. Most people are not going to use the front brake as they have not learned to independently control the throttle and the front brake at the same time. Once you train yourself and develop the strength and dexterity in your fingers, you will discover how much it helps to drag the front brake too.
I should point out that the speed I'm talking about is probably much slower than most people can ride a bike in a straight line, let alone in a tight corner.
And of course I need to mention to anyone who has not ridden much, when you drag the front brake, you need to pay attention to the road surface. Grit, gravel, or oil will cause you to dump the bike. Even on a good surface, you are dragging the brake with variable pressure based on available traction. The fact is, at slow speeds, the bike is almost upright, so you are not as likely to go down anyway. I've only dropped a bike once using the front brake, and that was 35 years ago, and I was not in a corner. But I have squealed the front tire in a corner on several occasions. Even driven off the tread, which is always interesting. Twice on my old CX500, once on my Pacific Coast.
Never really noticed. But boii, thats a beautiful motorcycle!
My save-up bike is probably going to be an Indian. They're gorgeous.
It is indeed a very nice looking bike. That said, Victory and Indian motorcycles are made by Polaris. I'd caution you on buying one as they are not the most reliable bikes and their warranty service reputation is not that great. I know of a few new Indian owners and they took their bikes in for warranty service quite a few times in the bikes first few years even.
Much like a car model, when a manufacturer comes up with a brand new model, I'd suggest you wait a few years before buying that particular vehicle so if there were any major issues, they get worked out.
It's ugly get a turbo busa
What is the model?
@@adisadis6313 that's an FTR
For some reason I didn’t enjoy most of your videos in the past…..but this is great - keep it up
Just passed my msf course yesterday they encouraged us to take 3 power steps when taking off, even when making a turn from a stop. Is this something you’re meant to out grow? It felt very comfortable doing it that way. Thank you for this content! It helps guide my practice so i can be as prepared as I can be, enabling to enjoy riding as much as I can!
what are "power steps"??
Good info applies as well to my Maxi Scoot, a Burgman 400 - I follow your vids pretty consistently and haven't seen any of the bigger more road worthy scoots anywhere yet but I'll keep at it. I'm an older rider now at 66 and have the time to learn more from you here. Thanks for posting!
After learning to never pull away without looking in your blind spots left and right, not to hit any cones doing MOD1 in UK, I am mortified, amused and entertained at the blasphemy of flattening the cones every time and not one look, good video regardless with useful info.
We use this in police motors, commonly referred to as the 90 degree pull out.
You should try it left and right, using the friction zone and correct foot placement when going either direction.
Right foot down, when going right and left foot down when going left.
Hi
Dan
I’m new rider
Thank you very much for everything
I’m learning with you
😅👍
Top tips for super smooth control.
Hey Dan. Been watching for a while. I'm just learning to ride for the first time. Thank you for all the great videos and telling us all to put on our gear even for low speed practice. I laid my bike down at slow speed yesterday and jammed up my thumb, but I had on my gloves and everything. I can bet it would have been worse without it 👍
You have such big parking lots in the USA. Wish we did where I live in Australia
Tight turn from a stop and figure 8s were the bane of my existence during my MSF, I struggled as a kid to turn left on a bicycle and would rather make a big right turn until i end up on the left, can't believe that problem still exists over a decade later 😅
Great video. I needed help. I live in the UK, so we ride on the opposite side of the road. I passed my test 8 years ago and I have built up a lot of experience. I have done touring rides, raced on track, fast rides on mountain roads and covered more than 30,000 miles. I can do everything well on a motorcycle EXCEPT one thing....turning right (on to the opposite side of the road) from a junction. In order to make this work I have to arrive at the junction with my bike partially turned in that direction otherwise I wont make the turn, god knows why.
Thanks a lot. Just start to learn riding a motorbike. Really helpful tips.
Good video for beginners 👏🏻😁 i have been riding superbikes for years 🏍
Thank you for Sharing your Experience & Knowledge with us 👍
Look where ya going, look where ya going! 👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks for the great instructional video! Very helpful technique to learn.
Dont forget about turning angle and turning radius, its critical during tight turn... keep up the good training... Sincerely from Rapid Intervention Motorcycle Team Malaysia
You are the ChrisFix of teaching how to ride a motorcycle😎👍
Do you have more of these instructional practice drills? Eager to see more so I can implement into my own training. Thank you.
Alright DanDan. I’ve been riding for 20 years but your videos along with motojitsu have convinced me. I’ve bought some msf training cones and will be doing slow speed drills. I happen to have a shut down casino nearby, so I have like 3000 empty parking spaces. Maybe more?
I've been riding for about 3 months now, and I still sweat turning from a stop while on a hill. It's really bad when the road is also leaning to one side and ive been giving it gas just to not roll backwards. I actually tipped my bike over once at a light, I was leaning in a weird way im not used to and the bike just fell over and I had to pick it up quickly because people were behind me trying to go lol. Thanks for making these videos, they've helped give me pointers as Im learning still. and like you pointed out before, this is probably the most dangerous part of being a new rider, right when you arent scared of riding anywhere, but still dont have a skill level high enough to not panic when there's trouble. Thanks bro.
Hey man. We're all learning here and the point is to get better. Join us on the discord and ask any question you want and we will help. Discord.gg/DanDanTheFireman
This is what I learned to do:
Apply and hold rear brake
Slowly let out clutch
When you feel the clutch grab slowly release rear break and increase throttle / release clutch as normal.
Trying to engage the clutch going uphill without rear brake assist can be done, but it sucks. It also gets harder the more the incline. Once I got the feel for using the rear brake to stop rollback until the friction zone hit, it became a lot easier. Just do a little practice on straight uphill to get the feel, then you can do it with uphill turns. That's what I did. Good luck!
The best thing my MSF teacher ever told me was that your brain always wants to line your nose up with the rest of your body.
After a couple rides, your brain also treats the bike like an extension of itself, so for maximum control, always point your nose (look) at where you want the bike to be.
This has not only saved me trouble on my bike, but also in cars.
Excellent job! Nice drone usage too. Thanks for another great one! ☺
All of this is standard examined when you want to get your license if you life in the Netherlands.
In turns, look at where you want to go. In straights, look at the horizon. This gives you the most stability for every practice..