Getting into motorcycles is undoubtedly one of the most exciting times of any rider’s life. And as with anything in life, there is definitely a learning curve.

There are plenty of ways to learn the ropes of riding a motorcycle. Maybe you take a few group lessons. Maybe you have a buddy to show you the ropes. However you get your start, the truth is that formal lessons can only prepare you so much.

As any experienced rider will tell you, the most important lessons come from spending time on the road. You can read all the how-to articles and magazines you want, but the truth is there are certain things you just don’t really get until you get out on the road and start riding motorcycles.

Irresponsible Drivers Are Everywhere

Sometimes it seems as if the roads are constantly overflowing with terrible drivers. Anyone who has driven a car can attest to this.

However, motorcyclists tend to know this better than most people. You don’t really get the full grasp of the prevalence of distracted driving until you have been on a bike.

The fact is that motorcyclists have to exercise a lot more caution, as they are often the most vulnerable passengers on the road. The grim stats back this up. Motorcycle deaths happen 28 times more often than fatalities in other vehicles.

The good news is this number has actually been trending downward in recent years. However, it’s still more than enough reason for motorcyclists to employ extra caution whenever they’re on the road.

Some drivers simply refuse to take motorcycles into consideration, and this carelessness often puts riders in danger.

While most run-ins with cars can be chalked up to simple negligence, the sad fact is some drivers are just downright hostile to motorcycle riders.

As infuriating as this can be, it’s always best to not engage. Find a way to get yourself safely out of the situation, and if necessary, call the proper authorities and file a report.

The Real Meaning Of Speed

How many times have you been sitting in a car, cruising down the highway, and look down to see you’re going over 80 miles per hour?

You may be going well over the speed limit, but odds are you don’t feel like it. Being surrounded on all sides by thick glass and metal doors isolates you from the reality that you’re going fast enough to do some serious damage.

The first time you open the throttle on a motorcycle, you instantly learn what speed really is. Completely exposed with the wind whipping at your face, you realize both the thrill and danger of speed.

Cars can lure you into a false sense of security. They’re insulated, sound-proof, and designed for comfort. Motorcycles are a whole different ball game.

Rather than being encased in a box, you’re basically sitting on top of a powerful engine with nothing between you and the road. Getting outside the shelter of an enclosed vehicle and onto a bike opens you up to a whole new way to experience the road!

Your Bike Will Take Up A Lot Of Your Time

Owning a motorcycle involves a lot more than just riding and storing your bike. Between prepping, riding, repairing, and general maintenance, odds are your downtime is going to revolve heavily around your motorcycle.

Keeping a bike in good working order is a serious commitment, and neglecting these duties can result in you breaking down on the side of the road instead of enjoying a leisurely ride.

Part of learning to ride involves learning to perform routine maintenance on your bike, and soon you’ll be well acquainted with changing oil and checking tire pressure.

Take care of your bike, and it will take care of you.

The Motorcycle Community Is Tight

There’s no better group of friends than the friends you can ride with. When you start riding you become part of a community with members in every corner of the world.

Whether you choose to attend the rallies and rides, or just roll with a group of friends, you eventually come to realize that riding is a sure way to make friends for life.

Motorcycle groups are found in every state in the country. If you’re looking to find people to ride with, joining up with one of these groups can be the perfect way to meet other riders. Even if it’s intimidating at first, bikers are generally a welcoming group who are willing to help out their fellow riders.

It’s More Fun Than You Ever Imagined

Simply put, riding a motorcycle is fun. It’s hard to imagine a more exciting way to get around than hopping on a bike and tearing down the road.

While driving a car can feel monotonous chore, riding a motorcycle is an experience that engages all the senses and fills your day with excitement.

Most people will agree that the idea of riding a motorcycle sounds fun. The truth is, until you get behind the handlebars yourself, you can’t fully appreciate just how exhilarating it really is.

There’s a reason so many people are passionate about riding. There are few things in life that are as exciting as a motorcycle ride.

Enjoy The Process

As with most things in life, there’s no substitute for experience, and starting to ride will be full of eye-opening moments. Try to enjoy every minute of it and stay safe out there.

What’s the most important thing you learned when you started riding? Tell us about it in the comments below!