Instructions on how to drive manual motorcycle safely and simply

To join Vietnam Motorbike Tours, international tourists should know how to drive  manual motorbike. This is the main means of transportation in every trip, especially adventure tours. However, driving a motorbike will be different from a regular scooter and can be challenging for those who are not familiar with it. To drive a motorbike effectively, you need to understand how to operate the clutch, gears, and coordinate smoothly with the throttle and brakes. Next, let’s learn more about basic operations such as starting, shifting gears, and handling situations while driving with Vietnam Motorbike Tours Club. 

Preparation steps before riding a motorbike 

To ensure your safety and the motorbike’s good performance, you need to pay attention to some preparation steps before riding a motorbike. First, check the tires, brakes, lights, oil and fuel to make sure the motorbike is in the best condition. In addition, fully equipped with a standard helmet, protective clothing and closed-toe shoes will help you protect yourself better when traveling on the road.

You need to be familiar with parts such as the clutch, gear lever and throttle to use them flexibly. Good control of these operations will help you shift gears smoothly, minimizing the situation of the motorbike stalling or shaking, especially in crowded traffic situations or when going up and downhill.

If you are a first-time rider of a motorbike, don’t worry, Vietnam Motorbike Tours Club has a team of staff and tour guides who will enthusiastically guide you, helping you drive safely and quickly.

How a manual motorbike works 

When starting a manual motorbike, the driver uses the clutch to disconnect or connect the engine to the gearbox, helping the gear shift smoothly. Each time you squeeze the clutch and press the gear lever, the vehicle will shift to a higher or lower gear, thereby changing the traction and speed.

The gearbox has gears such as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 0 (neutral). Gear 1 is often used when the vehicle is starting or needs a lot of traction, while higher gears help accelerate more smoothly. Shifting gears at the right time and controlling the throttle and clutch flexibly will help the vehicle operate stably, avoid stalling and save more fuel.

Instructions on how to drive manual motorbike safely  

How to drive a manual motorbike safely is not too complicated if you master some basic techniques and pay attention during the driving process. Here are some detailed instructions for you to drive a manual motorbike safely: 

Balancing skills 

The skill of maintaining balance when driving a motorbike is important to ensure safety on every journey. To maintain good balance, first of all, you need to sit in the correct position with your back straight, your hands firmly gripping the handlebars and your feet resting comfortably on the pedals. This helps you maintain balance and control the motorbike conveniently, especially when driving on curves or uneven terrain. 

Use rational progression 

Using the right gear when driving a manual motorbike helps ensure safety and optimize the performance of the vehicle. When starting the vehicle, you should shift to 1st gear to make it easier to move. After the vehicle is running at a stable speed, you can shift to 3rd or 4th gear to help the vehicle operate more smoothly and save fuel. In case of deceleration, you should reduce 1 or 2 gears to help the vehicle have better grip and easier control. This not only helps protect the engine but also increases safety for the driver. 

Brake your motorbike properly 

Braking is a necessary skill to ensure that each of your motorbike trips is safe. To brake effectively, you need to combine the front and rear brakes in harmony. Use the front brake by pressing the brake gently, avoiding the situation of locking the brake causing the wheel to skid, especially on slippery roads or when moving at high speed. Using the rear brake helps the vehicle maintain better balance when stopping, you should press the rear brake a little bit in advance to stop the vehicle stably. 

Safe motorbike speed 

Safe motorbike speeds depend on road conditions and traffic volume. If you are traveling within the city, the speed is around 30-50 km/h, depending on the route. Pay attention to speed signs, intersections, and densely populated areas and schools. On suburban routes, the safe speed can increase to 50-60 km/h, if the road is unsafe or the weather is bad, you should reduce the speed. Ensuring compliance with speed regulations, keeping a reasonable distance, and adjusting the speed according to actual conditions are the keys to safe travel. 

Riding a motorbike uphill and downhill 

Moving a motorbike uphill and downhill requires a lot of driving skills. Before going uphill, choose 1st or 2nd gear to give the engine more pulling power. If you are riding a manual motorbike, shift to a lower gear early to avoid losing momentum. Maintain speed while going uphill, limit braking to ensure safety.

When going downhill, keep the motorbike in a lower gear so that the engine helps brake naturally, reducing speed without having to use the brakes continuously. Use both brakes (front and rear) smoothly, do not brake suddenly because it can easily cause the wheels to skid, especially on steep roads. Mastering these two skills will help you move in mountainous terrain.

Know how to observe the rearview mirror 

Rearview mirrors help you observe the vehicles behind you, thereby making timely decisions when changing lanes, overtaking or slowing down. You should adjust your motorcycle mirrors to an angle where you can clearly see the distance behind. Knowing how to observe your mirrors not only helps you drive safely but also contributes to creating a safer traffic environment for everyone. 

Notes when riding a motorbike for beginners 

To ensure your safety and optimal performance of your motorbike, there are some things you should consider when using a manual motorbike.

• New drivers of manual motorbikes should choose a spacious, deserted place with few people passing by. This will help you feel the speed, handling and balance of the motorbike better.
• Always wear a helmet when riding, whether long or short distances, this will help ensure your safety.
• For beginners, driving in heavy rain, fog or slippery roads can be difficult. If you have to drive, move slowly, keep a greater distance and use headlights.
• Practice riding with an instructor or friends who know how to ride a motorbike. This will help your riding process go faster and limit risks.

Above are some tips on how to drive a manual motorbike for beginners from Vietnam Motorbike Tours Club. Hopefully these instructions will be useful for you in becoming a smart driver. Wishing you safe and enjoyable travels!