Riding a motorbike is a fun activity that can be used to feel the sensation on the open road. Even so, you still have to learn to drive it safely and in control. You can take a motorcycle driving course and get a SIM C at the local police station. Before starting to ride a motorcycle, buy safety equipment and find out how to control the motorcycle. With a little practice and time, you'll be ready to hit the streets on a motorbike!
Step
Part 1 of 4: Getting a Driver's License and Registering a Motorcycle
Step 1. Enroll in a motorcycle driving course
Although it sounds foreign in Indonesia, there are actually services that provide motorbike driving lessons. From this course, you can learn the basics of running and controlling a motorcycle. The classes provided usually offer a section on driving safety and a section for hands-on practice. If you're afraid to ride a motorbike, a course is an ideal place to start.
- Some courses provide motorbikes that you can use if you don't already have one.
- Take courses that also help you to get a driver's license. This course class takes a few days longer than a regular driving course, but you will get a driver's license upon completion of the course.
- The law on motorcycles applies equally to all parts of Indonesia. Ask the local Polres to find out the requirements for getting a driver's license. The minimum age to get a SIM C is 17 years. If you are not 17 years old, you will not be able to get a driver's license.
Step 2. Take the written exam and vision test to meet the requirements
Register at the local Police Station to take the exam. The written exam covers basic concepts and road rules, while the vision test is used to determine if you can drive a vehicle safely. You must first pass a written exam in order to take the practical exam.
- To get a driver's license, you must pass written and practical exams.
- Questions on the written exam include safety information, motorcycle riding techniques, and how to operate a motorcycle. Get to know how motorbikes work and the rules about how to ride a motorbike. Read a driving manual to learn about safe tips, as well as the laws and regulations for motorcycle riding.
- Visit the official Polres website in your area to find out the schedule for written exams and practical exams.
Step 3. Get a driver's license by passing a practice exam
Come to the police station to take the exam according to the schedule specified when you registered. The examiner will observe you while riding the motorcycle, and check that you are following the road rules. Follow all the safety precautions you've learned to apply in this exam. After passing the exam, you have to pay a fee to get a driver's license.
- The practical exam includes basic knowledge of motorcycle control, as well as riding the motorcycle slowly in circles and turns. Make sure you have practiced this first before taking the test.
- When taking the test, look around and ride the motorcycle below the speed limit.
- Practical exams are usually conducted at the local Polres yard, with examiners from the Police.
- If you live in the US, you must have 12 months of instruction if you are under 16 to get a driver's license.
Step 4. Register the motorcycle
When buying a new motorcycle, the motorcycle will automatically be registered by the dealer with the local police. All payments you make will cover everything about motorcycle licensing. If you want to know more, you can do an internet search about this.
- Again, everything regarding motorcycle registration will be taken care of by the dealer, unless you buy a motorcycle on behalf of someone else which requires you to do a name transfer. Check out how to do a name transfer on the internet.
- Make sure your vehicle number plate has been updated according to the vehicle registration date.
Step 5. Insure the motorcycle
In order to legally drive a motorcycle in some areas, you must have insurance (this only applies in developed countries, not in Indonesia). Check local regulations, do you need insurance. If so, consult with your insurer, whether they provide options or insurance packages for motorbikes.
Step 6. Check the motorcycle, is it ready to use
Use a pressure gauge to check the air pressure in the tires, and inflate if necessary. Check the brake fluid and oil levels to see if the contents are correct. Get on your knees to visually inspect the brake pads and chain to make sure they are not rusted or worn. If the motorcycle looks troubled, don't try to ride it.
Try turning the headlights and turn signal lights on and off to make sure they're still working properly
Part 2 of 4: Wearing the Right Equipment
Step 1. Buy a helmet
Head injuries are the leading cause of serious or lethal accidents for motorcyclists, and helmets can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Look for a standard helmet with a visor that doesn't block your view so you can still observe your surroundings. Make sure the chin strap is securely attached to the head so that the helmet is firmly attached.
- Look for an SNI (Indonesian National Standard) sticker or label to make sure the helmet you buy meets the legal requirements for riding a motorcycle safely.
- Do not wear a helmet with tinted glass when visibility is very close or when riding a motorcycle at night.
- Helmets generally provide a ventilation system that keeps the head cool in hot weather.
- All places in Indonesia require you to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
Step 2. Buy a jacket that is comfortable and made of strong material
A leather jacket or a strong synthetic material can provide maximum protection for the rider. Buy a jacket with light protection that attaches to your shoulders and elbows so you don't get injured in an accident.
Choose a jacket that has reflectors so that you are more visible to other riders. If you can't find a jacket that has reflectors, apply reflector tape to the back, front, and sleeves of the jacket
Step 3. Protect your feet by wearing long pants
The pants will protect the entire leg when you fall. This will not be able to be done by shorts. Choose thick pants such as denim to provide good protection when you ride a motorcycle.
Wear leather pads that cover the pants for added protection
Step 4. Buy boots and gloves
Choose boots with short heels to prevent them from snagging on rough surfaces. Wear gloves that cover all toes and boots that are above the ankles. Choose a durable and non-slip material (such as leather) that makes it easier for you to hold the steering wheel in various weather conditions.
- Tuck the shoelaces into the boots so they don't hang or get caught.
- In addition to protecting your hands when you ride a motorcycle, gloves can also prevent dry skin.
Part 3 of 4: Learning the Controls on a Motorcycle
Step 1. Locate the throttle on the right handlebar of the motorcycle
The throttle is located on the right handlebar of the motorcycle which is useful for controlling speed. To increase speed and start the engine, turn the throttle inward.
Make sure the throttle is able to return to the starting position when you turn and release it. If you can't, take the motorcycle to a repair shop for inspection before you ride it
Step 2. Locate the brakes above the right handlebar and near the right footrest
Look for the front brake above the right handlebar just above the throttle. You will often use this front brake. While sitting in the saddle, seek the rear brake using your right foot. Press the lever to activate the brake.
- Most of the power to stop the vehicle comes from the front brakes.
- If you can't find the lever near the right footrest, check your motorcycle manual to find out where it is.
Step 3. Familiarize yourself with the clutch and gear lever
Most motorcycles have a manual transmission and must be shifted up or down to increase and decrease speed. Look for the clutch on the left handlebar. The shape is similar to the brake handle on the right. Look for the shift lever in front of the left footrest and try raising and lowering the lever.
- Always position the motorcycle in neutral, and attach a standard (motorcycle mount or support) when not in use. The neutral position is generally between first and second gear.
- Most motorcycles use a "1 down and 5 up" gear shift pattern. Starting from the lowest to the highest gear, motorcycle gears usually have a pattern: 1st gear, neutral, 2nd gear, 3rd gear, 4th gear, 5th gear, and 6th gear.
Part 4 of 4: Practicing Driving Techniques
Step 1. Get on the motorbike
Approach the motorcycle from the left, then hold the left handlebar for support. Swing your right leg over the seat, but don't let it hit the back of the motorcycle. Place both feet flat on the ground and sit comfortably. Once your feet are touching the ground and supporting the bike, you can raise the bar with the back of your feet.
Make sure the standard has been raised before you start running the motorcycle
Step 2. Start the engine and let the engine run for about 1 minute
Turn the ignition key to start the motorcycle, and move the red button on the right handlebar to the " on " or " run " position. Make sure the motorcycle is in neutral before you start the engine. Depress the clutch before you press the Start button, which is usually placed under the red switch and has a lightning bolt marking. Let the engine run and warm up until you are running the vehicle properly.
- Always pay attention to the indicators on the motorcycle dashboard to make sure the gear is in neutral. If not, shift gears to neutral while depressing the clutch.
- If the clutch is kept pressed when the engine is started, the motorcycle will not move forward even if the gear is not in neutral.
- If your motorcycle has a step starter, you can find the starter crank behind the right footrest. Press the starter firmly to start the engine.
Step 3. Turn on the headlights and turn on the turn signal
Look for the buttons for the headlights and turn signals, which are usually placed on the left handlebar. Use these two lights on busy roads so other motorists can see you.
If there is no turn signal on the motorcycle, you have to use your hands to signal. If you want to turn left, straighten your left arm until it is parallel to the ground, and point your palm down. If you want to turn right, bend your left elbow until your forearm is at a 90-degree angle to your biceps (which should be parallel to the ground), and clench your fists (this applies in the US). In Indonesia, just stick your right arm out to the side if you want to turn right. Start signaling about 30 m before turning, and return to holding the handlebars when you turn the vehicle
Step 4. Shift into gear 1 and start the motorcycle slowly
Place your left foot in such a way that your heel is on your left footrest and your toes are resting on the shift lever. Depress the clutch and go into first gear by pressing the shift lever down with your left foot. The motorcycle will start moving forward without you having to actuate the throttle if the clutch is slowly released. Practice maintaining balance when the motorcycle is moving forward at a slow speed. Always keep your hand on the brake lever just in case you lose control.
- Do the exercise in a parking lot or a quiet street so that you are not disturbed by other motorists.
- If the clutch is released too quickly, the motorcycle engine may die. If this happens, return the gear to neutral and start the engine again.
- Practice “power walking”, which is to keep your feet on the ground as you ride the motorcycle and slowly release the clutch to increase speed. Work your way up until you feel comfortable when your feet are off the ground and on the step of a forward moving motorcycle.
Step 5. Depress the clutch and change gears using the left foot
If you are comfortable when the vehicle is accelerating, turn the throttle inward while releasing the clutch to increase speed. After the motorcycle is traveling at a speed of more than 8 km/h, release the throttle, depress the clutch, and lift the gear lever up past the neutral position to enter 2nd gear. After changing gears, release the clutch, and increase the speed of the motorcycle.
- As the speed of the motorcycle increases, you must shift to a higher gear. If the speed of the motorcycle decreases, you must also downshift. Always release the throttle while depressing the clutch when you are changing gears.
- Once into 2nd gear, you don't need to shift to 1st gear, unless the motorcycle is stopped.
Step 6. Turn the motorcycle by pushing the handlebars in the opposite direction
Look in the direction you are turning, instead of looking straight ahead. Reduce the speed when you are about to turn by releasing the throttle. If you want to turn left, pull the left handlebar toward your body and push the right handlebar forward. If you want to turn right, pull the right handlebar toward your body and push the left handlebar forward.
- If you want to turn fast, practice countersteering. When you make a turn, tilt your body in the direction of the desired turn while pushing the handlebars away from your body to keep the motorcycle balanced.
- Don't turn too sharply as it could make you fall.
Step 7. Practice slowing down the motorcycle until it stops
While releasing the throttle, slowly pull the clutch and press the front brake to slow down the motorcycle. Place your foot on the rear brake step and press slightly to slow down the vehicle. When you have stopped, place your left foot on the ground and continue to position your right foot on the rear brake step.
- When you have finished riding, put the gear in neutral when the motorcycle has come to a stop.
- Do not apply too much pressure on the front brake as this can lock the front tire and cause the motorcycle to slip or bounce.
Step 8. Improve the experience by trying the busier streets
If you're comfortable with the basics of riding a motorcycle, try walking down a slightly busier street. Pay attention to your surroundings when riding a motorcycle and be aware of other riders.
Tips
Check with the local police station to find out what driver's license is required to ride a motorcycle. In Indonesia, you must have a SIM C to be able to ride a motorcycle
Warning
- Train with experienced riders to keep you safe.
- Avoid potholed, gravel, and dangerous roads. Although cars can pass easily, roads like this are very dangerous for motorcyclists.
- Be aware of the presence of other motorists on the road.
- Wear safety equipment, such as a helmet, long pants, jacket, gloves, and boots, to protect yourself in case you fall from a motorcycle.
- Lane splitting is an activity carried out by motorcyclists by driving between a row of stopped cars (when the road is jammed). This action can be legal or illegal in your area. Check the traffic regulations in your area to see if this technique can be applied.
