Quote:
Originally Posted by Jerrytheclown
Thanks for all the detailed advice every one! I'll definitely look into those recommended books!
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At this moment, you probably know enough to get around the streets. Just need to practice the skills so it's automatic. Do the following in parking lots lots:
1. starting. Get the throttle-clutch-throttle sequence down so you can start quickly. Not speeding through the intersection quickly, but quickly from the moment you think "go" to having the clutch released and throttle increasing. Get it down to less than 1-second. Practice using more and more throttle as you let out the clutch to the point where you're at 100% throttle at the moment the clutch-lever is fully released.
2. throttle-control. Don't be afraid of the throttle! Get used to giving it more and more gas after you've release the clutch. Do straight-line exercises of starting-accelerating-stopping. After you start, give it full-throttle for 3-4 seconds, then stop. The MSF classes used to have indicator-lights on the bikes so that the instructors know much throttle you're using and if you're wimpy, they tell you to give it more throttle. There are many, many situations where more throttle will save your hide, even your life. Get used to using full-throttle, straight-line for now.
3. braking. After you get moving, practice squeezing-in clutch then braking to stop. Don't worry about downshifting yet, you can do that once you're completely stopped. After you accelerate at full-throttle after starting, practice front-braking harder and harder. You can start with the both brakes simultaneously, then lighten up on the rear as it starts to slide. You'll find that there's tremendous traction under braking. Practice pushing back with your arms and sliding back in the seat while maintaining control of the bars and brake-lever.
Repeat #1, 2, 3 until you're completely comfortable with full-throttle starts, full-throttle straight runs, maximum-braking. These being automatic without worrying about concentration will make it much easier to ride on the street as you'll have more reserve brain processing power to gather info about cars, terrain, etc.