How To Ride Harley Sportsters

By: Dustin Thornton

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Learn how to ride Harley Sporsters if you are considering purchasing a motorcycle. Riding a motorcycle can seem daunting and can even be a bit difficult at first, but with some practice you can learn how to ride a Harley Sportster with ease. The best idea is to practice in an area that is safe for both you and the motorcycle in case of an accident, therefore it is recommended that you ride in a flat grassy field.

To ride Harley Sportsters, you will need:

  • Harley Sportster
  • Helmet
  • Riding glasses/sunglasses
  • access to a grassy field
  1. Inspect the grassy field that you intend to learn to ride the Harley Sporster on. Ensure that it is large enough and that there are no holes in the ground that can cause you to flip the motorcycle.
  2. Equip your helmet and wear riding glasses or sunglasses. Both of these devices protect your body while riding a motorcycle. Even the most experienced riders should wear them.
  3. Mount the Harley Sportster from the left side, as this is the proper etiquette. Site on the bike and make yourself comfortable.
  4. Press the clutch on the left handle and kick the gear shifter down until it is in first gear. Pull up on the gearshift once to activate neutral.
  5. Grip the handlebars and press the starter button until the engine starts. Let the engine warm up, occasionally giving it some throttle (the handlebar on the right).
  6. Pull in the clutch and push down on the gear shifter to activate first gear. Release the clutch gently while opening the throttle slightly until you feel the engine catch and the bike start to move. Remember that you can press the clutch handle at any time to stop the bike. Continue doing this until you feel comfortable.
  7. Press the clutch handle and pull up on the gearshift to activate second gear. 
  8. Turn the Harley Sportster by leaning towards the direction you want to turn, but do not brake. Braking causes the bike to want to fall when you turn.
  9. Stop by pressing the clutch and gently activating both brakes (right handlebar and right foot petal). Put both feet down near the ground as you are coming to a stop and balance the bike once it is at a complete standstill.
  10. Continue practicing in a grassy field until you feel more comfortable on the Harley Sporster. Take the motorcycle on a paved rode next.

Always wear a helmet when you are riding the motorcycle, even if you are going slow and riding on grass.

 

Posted on: Aug. 28, 2010