Uphill Motorcycle Riding Tips for New Riders

Upslope riding can seem challenging at first, but you'll quickly get used to it. Embrace the experience and learn from each ride!

Choosing the Right Motorcycle

Select a suitable motorcycle for uphill rides. Options like sporty, adventure, or commuter bikes might suit different terrains and preferences. Smaller gears and minimal clutch usage are key. But remember, smaller engine sizes don't necessarily mean easier uphill rides. Your motorcycle's chassis and suspension are tailored to handle bumps and lean angles differently, so don't assume they can cope with steep inclines.

Safe Uphill Riding Techniques

Cornering Techniques: Avoid leaning into corners. They may have potholes, and your motorcycle's suspension setup won't fully support lean angles. Stay in your lane unless it's a wide hairpin bend, in which case stay towards the outside. If you're unsure, stop a few meters before the turn and let bigger vehicles pass. Use your horn in blind corners to alert other road users.

Night Rides: Avoid night drives as visibility is low. Uphill, vehicles give you space to overtake, but you should also be prepared to yield when coming down. If the motorcycle or truck driver signals with an indicator or hand signal, it's safe to overtake. If you're unsure, wait until you can be sure.

Wildlife and Road Conditions: Always ride slowly in areas with wildlife. It's hard to brake if something unexpected jumps out. Pay extra attention to running monkeys! If traffic is slow, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, just in case someone needs to reverse or you need to take a U-turn.

Stopping and Parking: Don't stop in corners, as they are dangerous. Also, be aware of parked vehicles and broken-down vehicles. Reduce tire pressure by 2-3 psi to improve traction and grip, but remember to restore it after the ride.

Riding Gearing and Stability

Gearing: Keep the gear low for stability and to maintain control. Use 1st and 2nd gears, and limit shifts to these two gears. Torque is crucial for climbing and overtaking. Use the engine's braking function and avoid using manual braking in corners.

Road Conditions: Be aware that road conditions can be slippery. Use a light touch on the throttle to avoid deep side drops. Regularly check for potholes and obstacles to ensure a smooth ride.

Descent Techniques: On descending, keep the gear low (1st or 2nd) to avoid excessive speed. Use the engine's braking function but engage the clutch when on a straight stretch to run freely. Always yield to oncoming traffic as they are rolling downhill and need more time to stop.

Enjoy the Ride

No matter your experience level, uphill riding can be challenging. Take it slow, stay alert, and enjoy the ride.

Conclusion: Motorcycling is a gift. As you climb the learning curve, remember: safe riding is the key to a joyful experience. Always prioritize your safety and that of others.