Top Tips to Handle a Heavy Motorcycle

Everybody seems to enjoy a heavy cruiser motorcycle, such as the Harley. But, when it comes to maneuvering the motorcycle or slow riding on a cruiser, it’s an entirely different thing. At high-speed, riding any bike doesn’t present very much difficulty. But, when you ride at slow speeds and in tight spots, then riding a heavy bike is very difficult. Not all riders have those skills to do it without any worries.

Have you ever seen cruiser riders passing through slow traffic or taking a turn by paddling with their feet on the ground?

I bet you haven’t. Because it is not as easy as we expect. Especially, when you own a sports bike. However, there are a few riders who have these skills and have no trouble doing this. But, not all riders have the same skills.

It takes plenty of patience and skill to do that. That’s why today we are going to give you some top tips for handling a heavy motorcycle.

Top Tips to Handle a Heavy Motorcycle

Parking

Parking a heavy bike can be the first lesson in handling big heavy Harley’s. When you decide on a place to park your motorcycle, make sure it is a flat surface with no incline. But, if it does, then it better be an uphill slope. Otherwise, your motorcycle will feel a lot heavier while putting down the stand.

Remember, to use the side stand instead of the center stand.

See Also: How to park your motorcycle correctly?

Head’s up

When you are riding slowly in traffic, don’t look down. Always look straight ahead with your head up, so you can understand the nearby traffic flow and where you want to go.

Handle Brakes, Clutch, and Throttle Smoothly

Cruiser bikes are recognized for power; however, sport bikes are known for their uncomplicated transmission. So, don’t put too much pressure on the throttle and clutch. Moving smoothly gives you better control over handling and speed. Plus, at low speeds, you don’t need to use the front brakes.

Because, if you do, then it will cause all the weight to shift to the front suspension, which may result in an imbalance of the motorcycle. Use the rear brakes to slow down and at zero put your left foot on the ground for full control. Only use the front brake when you need to stop immediately.

Turn

“Use left foot for left turns and right foot for right turns.”

This technique will help you to take turns without any difficulty. I know it sounds strange but if you put your foot on the side where you are executing a sharp turn then it will adjust your riding posture and will result in taking the turn easily.

Tilt and Sit Up Straight

Tight turns require steering and leaning the motorcycle. While taking a tight turn, lean your motorcycle to the side toward the foot that is starting the turn and extend your leg in the direction of the turn. This leaning motorcycle trick will help you to make the turn right away.

One more thing, while turning the motorcycle, sit straight. This will give you control over the turn and the leaning bike.

I hope these tips and hints will help you manage tight turns on heavy motorcycles and give you a general idea of how to ride a heavy motorcycle. If you have anything to add to this list, please don’t forget to mention it in the comment section below.