As a 19-year-old who has been riding for just three weeks, I want to share my perspective for anyone considering getting into motorcycling. My journey began with saving for a car—a 2007 Civic Si—before anything else, and I strongly advise doing the same. Riding in cold weather, especially below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, is challenging even with multiple layers and non-vented boots, as wind chill is no joke.
Before purchasing a motorcycle, invest in proper safety gear. I started with Alpine Stars SMX-6 Drystar boots, Acteon pants, an Air jacket, SP-8 gloves, and a Shoei RF-1400 helmet equipped with a Cardo PackTalk Edge. Buying gear first helps resist the temptation to ride unprotected, especially on a sportbike like my used Ninja 400, which I found on Facebook Marketplace for $3,900 with 3,000 miles. Focus on gear that meets safety standards and fits well—try items on in stores when possible, and avoid buying helmets online or used. While high-end options like airbag vests offer extra protection, any rated gear is better than none. Don’t overthink it; just prioritize safety over style or cost.
Ear protection is essential. Disposable foam earplugs, like those from 3M, are effective for reducing wind noise, unlike some specialized alternatives. Also, obtain your motorcycle license, ideally through a course like the MSF, to gain valuable on-bike experience.
When it comes to social media, be selective. Many biking influencers promote unsafe behavior; instead, seek out responsible riders who emphasize safety. For your first bike, choose something under 500cc, like a Ninja 400. It’s manageable yet powerful enough to teach respect for throttle control—I learned this the hard way with an accidental wheelie. Remember, riding style is the ultimate factor in safety. Stay alert, assume other drivers don’t see you, and avoid reckless behavior. If you do take risks, be fully focused and aware of the consequences.
Ultimately, motorcycling is about passion and longevity, not clout. Ride smart, gear up, and enjoy the journey responsibly.
Starting with gear before the bike is such smart advice—I did the same with my first ride, and it kept me from making a rash, unprotected trip home from the dealer. Your point about the wind chill being no joke below 50°F is so true; I learned that the hard way on an early spring ride that had me shivering uncontrollably. What’s your go-to method for staying warm on longer chilly rides?
Thanks for sharing your experience—it sounds like that early spring ride really drove home the importance of staying warm! My go-to method is layering with a windproof base and using heated grips or glove liners, which make a huge difference on longer chilly rides. I’d love to hear what gear or tricks you’ve found most effective for staying comfortable in the cold.
Starting with gear before the bike is such smart advice—I did the same with my first ride, and it really does build that safety-first mindset. Your point about cold weather riding hits home; even at 55 degrees, my commute last week was brutal until I upgraded to a proper windproof layer. What’s your go-to solution for staying warm on longer rides?
Thanks for sharing your experience—it’s great to hear that starting with gear worked for you too, and I totally agree about that wind at 55 degrees being a wake-up call. For longer rides, I rely on a windproof thermal liner under my jacket and heated grips, which make a huge difference without adding bulk. Let me know if you find a particular brand that works for you, and stay warm out there!
Starting with gear before the bike is such smart advice—I did the same with my first ride, and it really does build that safety-first mindset. Your point about cold weather riding hits home; even with my heated grips, anything below 50°F on the highway is brutal. What’s your go-to layering strategy for those chilly morning commutes?
Thanks for sharing your experience—heated grips are a game-changer, but you’re right, that highway chill is something else. For my chilly morning rides, I start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a thermal mid-layer, and rely on my Alpine Stars Air jacket’s windproof liner; sealing your neck with a balaclava makes a huge difference too. I’d love to hear what gear you’ve found most effective for staying warm—feel free to share what works for your setup.
As a fellow new rider who started last fall, I completely agree about the cold—I learned the hard way that even at 55 degrees, that wind chill cuts right through you on the highway. Your point about buying the gear first to avoid the temptation to ride unprotected is brilliant; I rushed my first ride in just a jacket and regretted it. What’s your go-to layering strategy for those sub-50 degree rides you mentioned?
Hey, I’m glad my point about buying gear first resonated with you—it sounds like we both learned quickly about that highway wind chill! For sub-50 rides, my go-to is a moisture-wicking base layer, a thermal mid-layer, and my windproof Alpine Stars jacket, with the key being keeping my neck sealed with a balaclava. Let me know what layers you end up trying, and I’d love to hear how your next cold ride goes.
As a fellow new rider who started last fall, I completely agree about the cold—I learned the hard way that my regular jacket was useless below 55 degrees even before factoring in wind chill on the highway. Your point about buying the gear first to resist the temptation is brilliant; I rushed my first ride with just a helmet and instantly regretted it. What was your experience finding the right fit for the Alpine Stars boots, since you mentioned trying things on in store?
I’m glad you could relate to that cold-weather lesson—it really is a brutal wake-up call! For the SMX-6 boots, I found trying them on in-store was essential because Alpine Stars sizing can be snug; I went a half-size up from my regular shoe size to accommodate thicker riding socks. If you’re shopping online, I’d recommend checking the brand’s specific size chart and reading reviews that mention fit. How has your gear selection been going since that first ride?
Consider the Aerostich Roadcrafter for a versatile, all-weather riding suit. It’s durable, practical, and well-regarded by experienced riders for its convenience and protection.
Thanks for sharing your perspective.
If you need an adrenaline rush, remember there’s a time and a place for it. The issue with some new riders is they don’t grasp that concept.
I completely agree, but that urge is so hard to resist.
As a new rider myself, I completely agree with your perspective on gear. I started with a used Ninja 400 and invested in quality protective equipment from day one. The community has been incredibly welcoming, offering advice and support without judgment. It’s refreshing to see others prioritize safety while still enjoying the ride. Your advice about starting on a manageable bike and gradually building skills is spot on. Thanks for sharing your experience—it’s encouraging for those of us just beginning this journey.