The fastest way to become a better motorcycle rider

1. Practise, Practise, Practise

We're not going to sugar coat it. If you want to be a better rider, it will take practise! But here's the secret no one is telling you: If the quality of your practise is good, you'll build skills at a much faster pace.

Practise your skills in a controlled, low-traffic area. Drills that focus on balance, vision, clutch control and braking will help you to gain finer control of the motorcycle. Use an empty car park or a quiet suburban street and pick a low-pressure time for focused training.

Need a little help getting your practise in? Book a private lesson!

3. Take a Certified Motorcycle Training Class

A professional motorcycle training course is the quickest way to build your skills and learn the rules of the road.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your skills, comprehensive, professional motorcycle training programs have been designed to set you up for a lifetime of safe and confident riding.

At Territory Motorcycle Training, we offer competency-based courses designed to equip new riders with practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Our expert instructors prepare you for real-world riding.

4. Do Your Pre-Ride Checks

Before hitting the road, always inspect your motorcycle. Check the tyres and wheel assembly, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. A quick pre-ride inspection can help you detect small issues before they become big problems on the road.

Developing good awareness of your motorcycle's condition will also help you become more in tune with your motorcycle and catch potential issues earlier. Having a list of pre-ride checks that you carry out every time will ensure you don't miss anything.

You can always book into one of our motorcycle mechanical courses if you'd like to build some skills in bike maintenance and troubleshooting!

5. Wear the Right Gear

We all know that our gear could save our skin, literally! In the tropical weather of Darwin, we need to dress for comfort and heat management, as well as safety.

Some motorcyclists like to say, "dress for the ride and the slide". Experienced motorcyclists know that comfort and safety go hand in hand when it comes to choosing the right gear.

When we select the right gear for our conditions, we can focus on operating the motorcycle without distraction. Make sure you have a full-face helmet that fits well, a protective jacket with good airflow for the tropical heat, kevlar riding jeans with good airflow, hot weather gloves with a leather palm, and motorcycle boots.

Choose motorcycle gear that you like. You'll always be inspired to wear it!

6. Learn From Your Community

One of the fastest ways to improve your motorcycle skills is by riding with experienced motorcyclists who can offer guidance, feedback, and inspiration. When you ride with seasoned riders, you get the chance to observe their techniques in real-world conditions.

Notice how they approach corners, position themselves in traffic, or navigate tricky road surfaces. This firsthand learning is a great way for less experienced motorcycle riders to understand nuances that can't be learned solo.

However, it’s crucial to choose the right group. Choose a motorcycle group that values safety and doesn’t pressure you into riding beyond your skill level. A supportive group encourages questions, helps you feel at ease and fosters an environment where learning is prioritised over ego.

Don't get sucked into a bad group mentality. If you're riding in a group that isn't looking out for safety, leave.