Trike Riding Tips

If you're looking to have fun on the open road and don't mind glances from onlookers, a three-wheel trike motorcycle is a great choice. Since trikes are unique in their design and function, it's important to know how to ride them correctly. You can consult the experts for trike-riding tips at Wisconsin Harley-Davidson in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, serving Milwaukee and Madison.

Learn How to Turn

One of the trickiest parts of driving a trike is learning how to steer and maneuver it to ensure you have complete control in the driver's seat. The third wheel can make it difficult to turn right or left, making it necessary to reduce your speed as you approach the turn, similar to how you would when driving a car. Hit the throttle again to ensure you can pull yourself to the other side. Try to keep your turns smooth to prevent the trike from wobbling, which can lead to accidents. 

Prepare to Stop

Due to the heavy weight of trikes, it can take time to learn how to brake. You'll want to give yourself some extra room to come to a complete stop. At the same time, the extra wheel on the trike can increase your stopping power and require less force. Avoid trying to stop the trike by only relying on the front brakes, which can cause it to tip forward.

Start and Shift Correctly

Most trikes are built with a manual transmission similar to what you'll find in a standard motorcycle. When starting, always keep the brakes engaged when you turn the engine on while slowly releasing the clutch. Increase the throttle at the same time. Drop the throttle and engage the clutch when you're ready to shift before letting the clutch out again. Although it can take time to feel comfortable performing these steps, you'll get the hang of it after a few tries.

Know the Hazards Involved

There are many hazards to be aware of as you learn how to ride and operate your trike. Consider enrolling in a course that teaches you the basics and common mistakes to avoid to improve your ability to safely operate the trike. It will also teach you how to understand the different types of road conditions while getting around each season. The instructors can also point out areas where you need to improve your ability to operate the trike.

Are you interested in learning more about how to safely ride a trike? You can learn from the team at Wisconsin Harley-Davidson in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, serving Milwaukee and Madison. With our help, you can find the perfect three-wheel motorcycle to suit your needs.