Riding skills and positioning
Riding a motorcycle uses different controls and skills from driving a car. You balance the bike, use separate front and rear brakes, change gears with your foot and steer by leaning as well as turning the bars.
This page covers the basic controls, where to position yourself in the lane, how to take corners and how to brake well. General road rules and hazard awareness are covered in the car syllabus; here we focus on what is different on two wheels.
By the end of this topic you can
- You can name the main motorcycle controls and what each does.
- You can choose a lane position that helps you see and be seen.
- You can take a corner using a slow in, look, roll on approach.
- You can brake smoothly using both brakes.
What you need to know and understand
- On most motorcycles the right hand works the throttle and front brake lever, and the left hand works the clutch.
- The left foot usually changes gear and the right foot works the rear brake.
- The front brake gives most of your stopping power, especially in a hard stop.
- Above walking pace, a small push forward on the right handlebar makes the bike lean and turn right (counter-steering).
- Riders can use any part of the lane, so position yourself to see and be seen.
- Head checks are needed because mirrors do not show the blind spot.
Your hands and feet
Learn the controls with the engine off until you can find each one without looking. Use the clutch and throttle together for smooth starts. Gear changes should be firm but smooth, with the clutch in fully. Keep your feet on the footpegs, not dangling, once you are moving.
Picking your spot in the lane
Your lane position changes with the situation. Aim for a spot where drivers can see you in their mirrors and where you have space to react.
- Avoid riding in a driver's blind spot beside them.
- Move away from side roads and driveways where a car could pull out.
- Watch for oil and debris in the centre of the lane, especially near intersections.
- Keep a gap of at least three seconds to the vehicle in front, more in the wet.
Corners: slow in, look, roll on
- Set your speed and gear before the corner, while the bike is upright.
- Look through the corner to where you want to go.
- Press the inside handlebar gently to lean the bike in.
- Hold a steady, slight throttle through the turn.
- Gently roll on the throttle as the road straightens and you can see the exit.
Braking without drama
Use both brakes together. Squeeze the front lever progressively rather than grabbing it, and press the rear pedal smoothly. Brake mostly when the bike is upright. If your bike has ABS, keep firm pressure in an emergency and let the system work. Practise controlled stops in a safe area so you know how your bike behaves.
Common mistakes
- Grabbing the front brake. Squeeze it progressively.
- Braking hard mid-corner. Set your speed before you turn in.
- Looking at a hazard you want to avoid. Look at the escape path instead.
- Sitting in a car's blind spot. Drop back or move ahead so you can be seen.
Test yourself: Riding skills and positioning
Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.
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Sources: Transport for NSW Motorcycle Rider Handbook; Transport Victoria motorcycle licence and learner permit pages (transport.vic.gov.au); Queensland Government motorcycle road rules (qld.gov.au). Independent guide, not affiliated with any licensing agency. Always check the latest official rules with your state or territory road authority.