Tips for First-Time Cruiser Motorcycle Owners

Interested in owning a cruiser motorcycle or just bought one? Great! A cruiser is an economical and enjoyable way to get around, but if you’ve never owned one before, there’s a lot you may not be aware of. Being versed in cruiser motorcycle safety is essential to your well-being and that of others on the road around you. To help you get started with your brand-new cruiser motorcycle, we’ve provided our top first-timer tips.

Attend a Motorcycling Class

One of the best ways to prepare yourself and learn about cruiser bikes is to attend a motorcycle class. Learning how to ride the bike from experienced riders will teach you a great deal that you can’t learn when you’re on your own. The classes may even have a beginner bike for you to practice on, so your instructor can demonstrate how the brakes, throttle, clutch, and other controls function.

Get in Some Practice

Just like with everything else, you’ll only get better at riding your cruiser motorcycle if you practice doing so at every possible opportunity. It’s even better if you have a more experienced motorcyclist to help you learn! Take your cruiser bike to an empty lot the first time you ride it, free of distractions or obstacles, so you can gain confidence with turning, braking, and getting up to speed.

You can then ride through city streets and hit the highway once you’ve gained some experience, although you’ll need to be cautious once you get there. The more practice you get before you ride on the interstate, the better it will be for your safety.

Ride Alone at First

You might have a friend or family member who can’t wait to ride on the back of your cruiser motorcycle with you. But as a beginner, you shouldn’t let them come along. It’s too easy to become distracted and struggle with the weight and bulk of an additional passenger, so ride alone for the first several weeks or months of ownership before you take someone else for a spin.

If you’re still looking to buy a cruiser motorcycle, visit Hideout Harley-Davidson® in Joplin, MO, to browse our inventory. We proudly serve all those in Springfield, MO, and Rogers, AR.