Instant expert motorbikes:5 Mistakes Before you make them.

postet by: Bertie Simmons
From Stuffer's Guide.

1. Don't buy a bew bike as complete novice

You will crash and/or drop the bike, sure as eggs become broken eggs. Learn your trade on a solid pre-owned bike, then upgrade when you've learned to filter with finesse and corner with confidence.

2. Don't be a stranger

If we see a fellow biker stranded, we stop and help. Outside the M25, we also wave at each other. It's a shared experience so join the local club, go to bike meets and speak to other riders.

3. Learn to appreciate your bike's performance in a safe environment: take an advanced riding course or attend a 'race school.

4. Don't ignore basic maintenance

All bikes have a small tool kit under the seat, so learn to use it. Something as daft as incorrect tire pressures can have you on your arse. Make cleaning and tweaks part of your Sunday ritual.

5. Try before you buy.

An Italian 'large' won't cover a beer-swilling builder from Brum. Sizes generally vary depending on where you are in the world. Euro sizes are going to be larger for asians. Helmets also differ, with one brand's large being another's XL. Buy the expensive kit. As bikers say - if you have a P10 000 head, buy a P10 000 lid.