ENRUES

How to start riding: beginner guide

The path from "I want a motorcycle" to confident riding. Take it step by step — the first year decides how safe and enjoyable your riding will be.

  1. Step 1: Check the rules in your country

    Motorcycle licences depend on the country. In the EU there are categories AM (mopeds), A1 (up to 125 cc), A2 (up to 35 kW) and A (unlimited). In the USA you need a motorcycle endorsement. In many countries a car licence allows a 125 cc scooter. Always check your local rules.

    • Minimum age for each category
    • Theory and practical tests
    • Whether you can ride on a learner permit

  2. Step 2: Take a professional course

    A good riding school teaches what videos cannot: clutch control, braking, looking where you want to go, and counter-steering. Many riders also take an advanced course after the first season.

    • Basic course for the licence
    • Off-road or trial course — the best balance training
    • Track day or advanced course later

  3. Step 3: Buy the gear first

    Before the first ride you need a certified helmet, jacket, gloves, trousers and boots with armour. Budget around 20–30 % of the price of the bike for gear.

    • Helmet: ECE 22.06, DOT or SNELL
    • Armour: CE level 1 or 2
    • Try everything on in a shop

  4. Step 4: Choose a sensible first bike

    The best first bike is light, has moderate power and lets you put both feet on the ground. Typical choices: 125–500 cc nakeds, retros, dual-sports and small cruisers.

    • Weight under ~200 kg
    • Power around 15–70 hp
    • Seat height that fits your legs
    • ABS as a must

  5. Step 5: Consider buying used

    Beginners almost always drop the bike at slow speed. A used bike loses less value and hurts less when it gets scratched. Take an experienced friend with you to check it.

    • Service history and documents
    • Chain, tyres and brakes condition
    • Signs of a crash: bent levers, scratches
    • Cold start of the engine

  6. Step 6: Plan the full budget

    Beyond the bike itself: insurance, gear, tax, service, tyres, fuel and parking. For young riders, insurance can cost more than you expect — get a quote before buying.

    • Insurance quote before buying
    • Service every 6,000–12,000 km
    • Tyres last 8,000–20,000 km

  7. Step 7: Ride smart in the first months

    Build experience gradually: empty car parks, then quiet roads, then traffic. Ride as if nobody sees you.

    • Practice emergency braking
    • Keep a safe distance
    • Avoid rain and night at first
    • No alcohol — ever

  8. Step 8: Learn basic maintenance

    Before each ride check the tyres, brakes, lights and chain. Learn to lubricate and adjust the chain and check tyre pressure yourself.

    • Tyre pressure weekly
    • Chain lube every 500–800 km
    • Oil level check

Pre-ride checklist (T-CLOCS)

T — Tyres & wheels

Pressure, tread, cuts, spokes.

C — Controls

Levers, cables, throttle returns freely.

L — Lights & electrics

Headlight, brake light, indicators, horn.

O — Oil & fluids

Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, leaks.

C — Chassis

Chain tension, suspension, frame.

S — Stands

Side stand and centre stand spring back.

Beginner myths

"I'll grow out of a small bike quickly, so I'll buy a big one."

A small bike teaches you more, faster. Most riders ride their first bike for 1–2 seasons, then sell it for almost the same price.

"Loud pipes save lives."

Sound goes backwards; drivers in front hardly hear you. Visibility, position on the road and smart riding save lives.

"Gear is only for long trips."

Most crashes happen close to home at low speeds. Asphalt removes skin at 30 km/h.

"ABS is for bad riders."

ABS helps everyone stop shorter and stay upright on slippery surfaces. Professionals ride with it too.

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