If you're a motorcycle enthusiast, chances are you're hoping to share that passion with your child. But where do you start? Teaching your child to ride a motorcycle can be a daunting task, but we're here to help. You may have been born to ride, but your child definitely wasn’t. In order for your child to enjoy the same love of motorcycles that you do, you’ll have to teach them everything from the basics of how to operate the bike to the more intricate details of using counter-steering to lean into turns.
It’s a lot of responsibility, but don’t worry—we’re here to help. Here are seven tips to get your child started on the right foot (or rather, the right tire).
Pick the Right Bike
The first step to teaching your child to ride is picking out the right bike. And by bike, we don’t mean a minibike or even a small dirt bike—we’re talking about a real motorcycle, preferably one that’s been size-adjusted for your child.
There are a few reasons for this. First, your child is going to have a much easier time handling a bike that’s their size. Second, they’ll be able to reach the ground with their feet, which is important for both balance and control.
If you don’t have a size-appropriate bike around the house, you can always look into renting or borrowing one. Just make sure it’s in good working condition before you hand it over—we don’t want anyone getting hurt.
Get Them The Right Gear
Your child is going to need more than just a bike to ride—they’re going to need the proper gear. At the very least, they should have a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
If you’re not sure what kind of gear to get, stop by your local motorcycle shop and ask for advice. The staff should be able to point you in the right direction.
And remember, you’re setting an example for your child, so make sure you’re wearing all the proper gear yourself.
Start Slow
The temptation is to just hand your child the keys and let them loose, but that’s a recipe for disaster. Instead, start slow and let them get used to the feel of the bike.
Have them sit on the bike and get comfortable with the seating position, the controls, and the view. You can even have them put on their helmet and gloves so they can get used to the sensation of wearing all the gear.
Once they’re comfortable, you can move on to the next step.
Walk Them Through the Controls
Before you start the engine, it’s important that you walk your child through all the controls on the bike. Show them where the gas and brakes are, and explain how they work.
It might seem like a lot of information to take in all at once, but if you go slowly and let them ask questions, they should be able to understand everything.
Once they know where everything is and how it works, you can start the engine.
Teach Them How to Start the Bike
Starting a motorcycle can be tricky, especially if you’ve never done it before. That’s why it’s important to walk your child through the process step-by-step.
First, show them how to put the key in the ignition and turn it on. Then, explain how the clutch and throttle work. Finally, have them practice starting the bike while you hold it steady.
It might take a few tries, but once they get the hang of it, they’ll be able to start the bike on their own.
Get Them Used to the Movement
Now that the bike is running, it’s time to get your child used to the way it moves. Have them practice giving the throttle a little gas while you hold the bike steady.
Once they’re comfortable with that, you can move on to the next step.
Help Them Practice Taking Off
The final step is helping your child practice taking off. First, have them push the bike forward until they’re moving at a walking pace. Then, have them give the throttle a little gas and let go of the clutch.
If everything goes well, the bike will start to move and they can start to ride. If not, don’t worry—it takes a little practice. Just have them keep trying until they get it.
And that’s it! These seven steps should help you teach your child to ride a motorcycle. Just remember to go slow, be patient, and have fun. Before you know it, they’ll be riding just like you.
Note: RumbleOn is an Amazon Affiliate, dedicated to reviewing the best and safest gear and more, for riders everywhere. We may receive commissions if products are purchased from them.
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