---
name: motorcycle-guide
description: |
  Motorcycle ownership guide covering licensing requirements, rider training courses, bike selection by experience level, protective gear essentials, riding techniques, basic maintenance, safety strategies, motorcycle types comparison, insurance considerations, and community resources for new and returning riders.
  Use when the user asks about motorcycle guide, or needs help with motorcycle ownership guide covering licensing requirements, rider training courses, bike selection by experience level, protective gear essentials, riding techniques, basic maintenance, safety strategies, motorcycle types comparison, insurance considerations, and community resources for new and returning riders.
  Do NOT use when the request requires professional specialized advice or falls outside the scope of motorcycle guide.
license: Apache-2.0
metadata:
  author: foundry-skills
  version: "1.0.0"
  tags: "automotive home-maintenance guide"
  category: "home-household"
  subcategory: "home-maintenance"
  depends: ""
  disclaimer: "none"
  difficulty: "beginner"
---

# Motorcycle Guide

## When to Use

**Use this skill when:**
- User asks about motorcycle guide
- User needs guidance on motorcycle guide topics
- User wants a structured approach to motorcycle guide

**Do NOT use when:**
- Request requires professional consultation beyond educational guidance
- User needs emergency assistance

## Questions to Ask First

1. **What is your riding experience?** (Never ridden / Dirt bike experience / Had a bike years ago / Current rider / Returning rider)
2. **What is your primary riding purpose?** (Commuting / Weekend recreation / Touring / Track/sport / Off-road / All-around)
3. **What is your physical size?** (Height and inseam affect bike fit)
4. **What is your budget?** (For bike, gear, insurance, maintenance combined)
5. **What type of riding environment?** (City / Suburban / Rural / Highway / Mixed)
6. **What climate do you ride in?** (Year-round warm / Seasonal / Rainy / Cold winters)
7. **Do you have your motorcycle license or permit?**
8. **What bikes have you been considering?** (If any)
9. **Will you carry a passenger regularly?**
10. **What concerns you most about riding?** (Safety / Cost / Maintenance / Skills)

---

## Getting Licensed

### Licensing Process (General US Framework)

```
STEP 1: LEARNER'S PERMIT
- Written knowledge test at DMV
- Study your state's motorcycle manual
- Topics: Road signs, right-of-way, motorcycle-specific laws
- Restrictions: No passengers, no night riding, no highways (varies by state)
- Some states require completion of a safety course first

STEP 2: MOTORCYCLE SAFETY COURSE (Highly Recommended)
Types of Courses:
  Basic RiderCourse (BRC):
  - 2-day course (classroom + range riding)
  - Motorcycles and gear provided
  - Learn fundamental riding skills
  - Passing the course often waives the DMV skills test
  - Cost: $200-400 (some states subsidize)

  Intermediate/Advanced Courses:
  - For riders with some experience
  - Focuses on cornering, emergency maneuvers, street strategies
  - Available through MSF, Total Control, and other providers

STEP 3: SKILLS TEST
- If not waived by safety course completion
- Tests: Low-speed maneuvers, turning, stopping, swerving
- Conducted in a parking lot or closed course
- Bring your own motorcycle (properly registered and insured)

STEP 4: FULL MOTORCYCLE LICENSE
- Motorcycle endorsement added to regular driver's license
- Renewal follows standard state license renewal
- Some states have graduated licensing (restrictions that lift over time)

STATE VARIATIONS:
- Age requirements vary (16-18 for permit, 16-21 for full license)
- Some states require safety course for riders under certain age
- Check your specific state DMV website for exact requirements
```

---

## Motorcycle Types Comparison

### Choosing the Right Style

| Type | Best For | Seat Height | Power | Ergonomics | Beginner? |
|------|---------|-------------|-------|------------|-----------|
| Standard/Naked | All-around, learning | Medium | Moderate | Upright, neutral | Excellent |
| Cruiser | Relaxed riding, touring | Low | Moderate-High | Feet forward, low | Good |
| Sport | Performance, track | High | High | Aggressive forward lean | Poor |
| Adventure/ADV | Mixed terrain, touring | Tall | Moderate-High | Upright, standing capable | Moderate |
| Touring | Long-distance comfort | Medium | High | Upright, wind protection | Moderate |
| Dual-Sport | On/off road versatility | Tall | Low-Moderate | Upright, narrow | Good |
| Cafe Racer | Style, short rides | Medium | Moderate | Moderate lean | Moderate |
| Scooter | City commuting | Low | Low | Step-through, upright | Excellent |

### Recommended Beginner Bikes by Category

```
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR FIRST BIKES:
- Engine size: 250cc-650cc (enough power without being overwhelming)
- Weight: Under 450 lbs (manageable at stops and low speed)
- Seat height: Able to place both feet flat (or nearly flat) on ground
- ABS: Strongly recommended (mandatory in many countries)
- Buy used for your first bike (you may drop it; save money)

RECOMMENDED STARTER BIKES:

Standard/Naked:
- Honda CB300R / CB500F (light, forgiving, reliable)
- Yamaha MT-03 (approachable, fun)
- Kawasaki Z400 (good power for growth)
- Suzuki SV650 (a classic beginner-to-intermediate bike)

Cruiser:
- Honda Rebel 300/500 (low seat, light, approachable)
- Kawasaki Vulcan S (adjustable ergonomics)
- Yamaha V-Star 250 (very light, very low seat)

Adventure:
- Kawasaki Versys-X 300 (lightweight ADV)
- Honda CB500X (versatile, moderate size)
- Suzuki V-Strom 650 (excellent all-rounder)

Dual-Sport:
- Honda CRF300L (light, capable on and off road)
- Yamaha XT250 (reliable, low seat for a dual-sport)
- Kawasaki KLX300 (user-friendly)

BIKES TO AVOID AS A BEGINNER:
- Supersports (600cc+ inline-four sport bikes): Too much power, aggressive position
- Liter bikes (1000cc+): Way too much power for learning
- Very heavy touring bikes: Difficult to manage at low speed
- Older bikes with no ABS: Added risk during emergency stops
```

---

## Protective Gear

### Essential Gear Guide

```
PRIORITY ORDER (most important first):

1. HELMET (Non-Negotiable)
   Type selection:
   - Full-face: Best protection, recommended for all riders
   - Modular: Flip-up chin bar, good for touring
   - Open-face/3/4: Less protection, better airflow
   - Half/brain bucket: Minimal protection (avoid)

   Fit:
   - Snug but not painful (should not move when you shake head)
   - Cheek pads touch cheeks firmly
   - No pressure points after 15-20 minutes
   - Try on in store; sizes vary by manufacturer

   Standards to look for:
   - DOT (minimum legal standard in US)
   - ECE 22.06 (European, generally higher standard)
   - SNELL (highest independent standard)
   - Look for at least DOT + ECE or DOT + SNELL

   Replacement: After any impact, or every 5 years (materials degrade)

2. GLOVES
   - Full-finger, motorcycle-specific
   - Armor on knuckles and palm sliders
   - Good grip (not too bulky for controls)
   - Gauntlet style for best wrist protection
   - Hands are the first thing to hit the ground in a fall

3. JACKET
   - Motorcycle-specific (not fashion leather)
   - CE-rated armor at shoulders, elbows, and back
   - Materials: Leather (best abrasion) or textile (versatile, weatherproof)
   - Proper fit: Snug but allows arm movement
   - Mesh options for hot climates (still with armor)
   - Back protector: Often sold separately; highly recommended

4. BOOTS
   - Over-the-ankle protection (minimum)
   - Oil-resistant, non-slip sole
   - Ankle armor and reinforced toe/heel
   - Shift pad on left toe (or reinforced toe)
   - Should be stiff enough to support ankle but allow walking

5. PANTS
   - Motorcycle-specific with knee and hip armor
   - Options: Riding jeans (with Kevlar/Dyneema), textile, leather
   - Regular jeans offer ZERO abrasion protection
   - Over-pants available for commuters (wear over work clothes)

GEAR BUDGET GUIDE:
| Item | Entry-Level | Mid-Range | Premium |
|------|------------|-----------|---------|
| Helmet | $150-250 | $300-500 | $500-800 |
| Gloves | $40-80 | $80-150 | $150-300 |
| Jacket | $150-300 | $300-600 | $600-1200 |
| Boots | $80-150 | $150-300 | $300-500 |
| Pants | $100-200 | $200-400 | $400-800 |
| Total | $520-980 | $1,030-1,950 | $1,950-3,600 |

IMPORTANT: Budget for gear BEFORE budgeting for the bike.
All the gear, all the time (ATGATT) is the rider community standard.
```

---

## Riding Techniques

### Fundamental Skills

```
SLOW-SPEED CONTROL (Most Important for Beginners):
- Friction zone: The clutch engagement range where power begins to transfer
- Master the friction zone before anything else
- Use rear brake at low speed for stability (not front brake)
- Look where you want to go (head and eyes up, not at the front wheel)
- Practice figure-8s and U-turns in a parking lot

BRAKING:
Progressive Braking:
  1. Roll off throttle
  2. Apply rear brake lightly
  3. Apply front brake progressively (squeeze, don't grab)
  4. Front brake provides ~70% of stopping power
  5. Increase pressure smoothly; never grab suddenly

Emergency Braking:
  - Apply both brakes simultaneously and progressively
  - Keep the bike upright (maximum braking happens when vertical)
  - ABS allows full brake application without wheel lockup
  - Practice emergency stops regularly in a safe area

CORNERING:
  1. SLOW: Set your speed before the turn (brake before, not during)
  2. LOOK: Look through the turn to where you want to exit
  3. PRESS: Countersteering (press left handlebar to go left)
  4. ROLL: Smoothly roll on throttle through the turn
  5. Never brake in a lean (straighten first, then brake)

COUNTERSTEERING (Critical Concept):
Above approximately 15 mph, you steer by pressing the handlebar
in the direction you want to turn:
  - Press LEFT handlebar = bike goes LEFT
  - Press RIGHT handlebar = bike goes RIGHT
This feels counterintuitive but is physics; practice until natural.

SITUATIONAL AWARENESS:
- SIPDE: Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute
- 12-second visual lead (look far ahead, not at the road in front of you)
- Check mirrors every 5-7 seconds
- Always have an escape route planned
- Assume you are invisible to other drivers
```

### Hazard Management

```
ROAD SURFACE HAZARDS:
- Gravel (especially at intersections and parking lots)
- Sand on curves
- Wet roads (especially first 15 minutes of rain, when oil rises)
- Metal surfaces (manhole covers, railroad tracks, bridge grating)
- Painted road markings (slippery when wet)
- Potholes and road debris
- Tar snakes (tar-filled cracks, slippery in heat)

TRAFFIC HAZARDS:
- Left-turning vehicles (the single most common motorcycle accident scenario)
- Vehicles changing lanes into your space
- Rear-end collisions (position to escape, flash brake light)
- Door zone (parked cars opening doors)
- Blind spots (ride where drivers can see you)
- Intersections (most dangerous location for riders)

WEATHER RIDING:
- Rain: Reduce speed, increase following distance, smooth inputs
- Wind: Grip tank with knees, lean into gusts, stay relaxed
- Cold: Hypothermia affects reaction time; layer up or don't ride
- Fog: Reduce speed significantly, use low beam, increase visibility
- Night: Use high beam when possible, wear reflective gear
```

---

## Basic Motorcycle Maintenance

### Maintenance Schedule

```
PRE-RIDE CHECK (T-CLOCS):
T - Tires and Wheels: Pressure, tread, damage, wheel bearings
C - Controls: Levers, cables, pedals, hoses, throttle snap-back
L - Lights and Electrics: Headlight, tail, signals, horn, battery
O - Oil and Fluids: Engine oil level, coolant, brake fluid, fuel
C - Chassis: Frame, suspension, chain/belt/shaft, fasteners
S - Stands: Side stand and center stand operation and spring

REGULAR MAINTENANCE:
| Task | Frequency | DIY? | Shop Cost |
|------|-----------|------|-----------|
| Oil and filter change | Every 3,000-6,000 mi (per manual) | Yes | $50-100 |
| Chain cleaning and lube | Every 300-600 miles | Yes | N/A |
| Chain adjustment | Every 500-1,000 miles | Yes (with practice) | $20-40 |
| Tire pressure check | Before every ride | Yes | N/A |
| Air filter | Every 6,000-12,000 miles | Yes | $20-50 |
| Coolant change | Every 24,000 miles / 2 years | Moderate | $75-150 |
| Brake fluid change | Every 2 years | Moderate | $75-150 |
| Brake pad check | Every 5,000-7,000 miles | Visual check: Yes | $100-200 |
| Valve adjustment | Per manual (often 15,000-26,000 mi) | Advanced | $200-500 |
| Tire replacement | Per tread wear/age | Shop recommended | $150-400 per tire |
| Spark plugs | Per manual (10,000-20,000 mi) | Moderate | $50-150 |

CHAIN MAINTENANCE (if chain-driven):
1. Clean chain with chain-specific cleaner or kerosene (not WD-40)
2. Rotate rear wheel to clean entire chain
3. Apply chain-specific lubricant (O-ring safe)
4. Lubricate after every ride in rain or every 300-600 dry miles
5. Check chain slack per owner's manual specification
6. Replace chain and sprockets together (they wear as a set)

TIRE CARE:
- Check pressure when cold (before riding)
- Front and rear may have different PSI specs
- Check tread depth (minimum 2/32 inch; replace earlier for safety)
- Inspect for nails, cuts, sidewall damage before each ride
- Tire age: Replace after 5-7 years regardless of tread
- Motorcycle tires are NOT repairable (some shops will plug, but replacement is safer)
```

---

## Insurance and Cost Considerations

```
INSURANCE FACTORS:
- Bike type: Sport bikes cost significantly more to insure
- Engine size: Larger = higher premiums
- Rider age and experience: Younger/newer riders pay more
- Safety course completion: Often earns a discount (10-15%)
- Clean driving record: Discounts for no claims/violations
- ABS equipped: Lower premiums with some carriers
- Coverage types:
  Liability: Required (covers damage you cause to others)
  Collision: Covers your bike in a crash
  Comprehensive: Covers theft, weather, vandalism
  Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Highly recommended
  Medical Payments: Covers your injuries regardless of fault

ANNUAL COST OF OWNERSHIP:
| Expense | Budget Range | Notes |
|---------|-------------|-------|
| Insurance | $500-2,500 | Varies wildly by bike and rider |
| Registration | $50-200 | Annual, state dependent |
| Maintenance | $300-800 | DIY saves significantly |
| Tires | $200-600 | Every 5,000-15,000 miles |
| Fuel | $300-1,000 | Depends on commute and MPG |
| Gear replacement | $100-500 | Replace as needed over time |
| Unexpected repairs | $200-500 | Budget a contingency |
```

---

## Riding Community and Continued Learning

```
WAYS TO IMPROVE AND CONNECT:
- Take advanced rider courses annually
- Track days (learn limits in a controlled environment)
- Join local riding groups (ride with more experienced riders)
- Online forums and communities for your specific bike
- Practice parking lot drills regularly (slow-speed skills degrade fast)
- Watch riding technique videos from credible instructors
- Attend motorcycle shows and events

RIDING GROUP ETIQUETTE:
- Ride your own ride (never exceed your comfort level for the group)
- Staggered formation on straights (not side by side)
- Single file in curves
- Know hand signals (stop, slow down, road hazard, single file)
- Sweep rider (experienced rider at the back)
- Communicate the route plan before departure
- Never pressure anyone to ride faster or farther than they want
```

---

## Output Format

When providing motorcycle guidance, present it as:

```
MOTORCYCLE RECOMMENDATION
Experience Level: [Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced]
Riding Purpose: [Primary use]
Budget: [Range]
Location/Climate: [Description]

RECOMMENDED BIKE(S):
1. [Make/Model] - [Why it fits]
   Engine: [Size] | Weight: [lbs] | Seat Height: [inches]
   New/Used Price Range: $[Range]

GEAR CHECKLIST:
[ ] [Item - Specific recommendation]
Budget: $[Range]

LICENSING NEXT STEPS:
1. [Step]
2. [Step]

TRAINING RECOMMENDATION:
[Course type and expected cost]

ESTIMATED ANNUAL OWNERSHIP COST: $[Range]
```

## Example

**Input:** "Help me get started with motorcycle guide"

**Output:** A structured motorcycle guide plan tailored to the user's specific situation, following the process outlined above.

## Edge Cases

- **Incomplete information:** Ask clarifying questions before proceeding. Do not assume details the user has not provided.
- **Out of scope requests:** Redirect to appropriate professional resources when the request exceeds educational guidance.
- **Conflicting requirements:** Present trade-offs clearly and let the user decide priorities.
