Starting to Ride

If you've never been a biker, and you've never even ridden a motorcycle before, you don't know what you're missing. This is an opportunity to join a community who love the feel of the wind, the road, and the agility and freedom that being on a bike gives them. So what's the process that'll take you from driver to rider?

1) Training.

Anyone who says you can just jump on a hog and roar down the freeway is clinically insane, and dangerous to boot - do not get on that person's bike! Training is a requirement because riding is very different to driving a car, and only once you've got a license can you think about going for a ride. However, once you're trained up enough, joining a club is actually the best way to learn just like joining PartyPoker (FI), as you're not out on the roads by yourself.

2) The right bike.

Don't go all out, expense-wise, on your first bike. If it turns out it's not your bag, it means you won't have spent tens of thousands on a machine you'll then have to sell for around half the price you bought it for. Go with something safe, something solid, and something that has a limit on how fast you can take it - roaring along the tarmac is something that should come with experience, not engine size.

3) A good club.

Fortunately for you, if you live in the local area, you're off to a good start already by visiting this very site. If not, simply have a look around the web for a local biker club, and you'll find that most of them are full of friendly, happy enthusiasts who are a far cry from the Hells Angels stereotype bikers have been cursed with for years. They'll offer advice, help make you a better rider, and offer friendship and support, as many riding clubs have a family feel to them.

That's it in terms of preparation - now all you need to do is get out there and start riding. Good luck, and have fun!