Fear Of Motorbikes

[dancemonkeydance]

I live in a pretty rural area without much public transport, so getting hold of a motorbike would improve my quality of life no end. Only problem is, I can't ride one and am seriously nervous about learning. I've never driven a car, and, due to the follies of youth / parental oversight I can't even ride a bike, so the usual 'drive on deserted country roads until you get used to it' technique isn't going to work with me. (in fact, the one time I tried, I was so nervous I had to pull in to the side, stop, and wait for other vehicles to pass before setting off again!) Any idea where you can get motorbike lessons that are a bit more comprehensive than the typical "Turn the key and move the handle away from you, you'll soon get the hang" style of teaching?

[Kf6vci]

I live in a pretty rural area without much public transport, so getting hold of a motorbike would improve my quality of life no end. Only problem is, I can't ride one and am seriously nervous about learning. I've never driven a car, and, due to the follies of youth / parental oversight I can't even ride a bike, so the usual 'drive on deserted country roads until you get used to it' technique isn't going to work with me. (in fact, the one time I tried, I was so nervous I had to pull in to the side, stop, and wait for other vehicles to pass before setting off again!) Any idea where you can get motorbike lessons that are a bit more comprehensive than the typical "Turn the key and move the handle away from you, you'll soon get the hang" style of teaching?

Hi there,

try to find a local epat motorcycle club and attend one of their meetings. It won't take that long to ride. Maybe you need a scooter with an automatic gearbox? At a regular driving school you will learn ho to avoid collisions, break hard etc. Don't dream, do it! You will love the freedomea bike brings and at about 40,000 Baht they are not expensive. Good luck!

[xbusman]

Forgive me for sticking a big farang nose in but do yourself a favor and skip the motocy. This is an amazingly deadly place to drive a motorcycle and a new nervous driver is fighting terrible probabilities. Take it from me, from ugly experience, cars hurt. They hurt alot. Just dont do it.

[mikethevigoman]

I live in a pretty rural area without much public transport, so getting hold of a motorbike would improve my quality of life no end. Only problem is, I can't ride one and am seriously nervous about learning. I've never driven a car, and, due to the follies of youth / parental oversight I can't even ride a bike, so the usual 'drive on deserted country roads until you get used to it' technique isn't going to work with me. (in fact, the one time I tried, I was so nervous I had to pull in to the side, stop, and wait for other vehicles to pass before setting off again!) Any idea where you can get motorbike lessons that are a bit more comprehensive than the typical "Turn the key and move the handle away from you, you'll soon get the hang" style of teaching?

I think you have answered your own question, however if you can keep your balance and can twist a throttle and operate brake levers you could give it a go,( get a fully auto one ) but i really would say keep away from traffic til you are confident, this is not europe or similar, expect the unexpected and treat all other road users as a hazard and you wont be disapointed !.

[JimsKnight]

Don't be afraid monkey man, just take it easy to start with, read the road carefully and don't get carried away by it. Go with the flow of traffic and don't be afraid to cross-filter to the front of traffic jams.

When you get some skill then you can pull off the moves and flashy weaving etc that the thais do. Just don't crash! Watch out for crazy dogs and pull-outs and you should be ok

[Mid]

Fear Of Motorbikes

Self preservation

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Self preservation is part of an animal's instinct that demands that the organism survives. Pain and fear are parts of this mechanism. Pain causes discomfort so that the organism is inclined to stop the pain. Fear causes the organism to seek safety and may cause a release of adrenaline which has the effect of increased strength and heightened senses such as hearing, smell, and sight.

en.wikipedia.org

[londonthai]

get a bicycle first - when you familiarise yourself with riding and street rules swithing to the scooter will be easy. There are 3 wheels scooters (seen them even on the road - but legally they are not suppose to be driven on the public roads) but they are more expensive

[snowflake]

There is only one way to learn how to drive a motorbike, you have to get on it...

I do know that getting on a motorbike the first time can be a bit scary here in Thailand...

Try to get a friend, someone you know to teach you... Go to a remote place and practice driving in circles, slalom, braking... You should always think that the other people around you will do their best to not hit you...:-)

Start slow and then when you get more confident you can increase the speed...

I taught a girl to drive a few years ago-- She started to drive 15kph down the main road... I told her to never mind the other people on the road... Just stick to your own rythm... Indicate and check when you turn-- Never listen to the people that tells you that you drive to slow or take to long time when you learn (there will be a time when you can drive fast)...

Start slow and then increase your speed as you go along...

[xbusman]

You guys are sick. Learning to drive a motorbike in Thailand is about a sure recipe for death. Think more than 1 second when you start posting advice to newbies about extremely dangerous actions.

[PeaceBlondie]

I'm with xbusman on this one. Let's not assume it's that easy for an adult who's never even ridden a bicycle. The best advice, if the OP must get on two wheels, is to start with a bicycle. If he/she can't learn to stay up, a motorbike is likely to be lethal. You just have too many things to do at once: holding two handlebars, using various hand and foot controls, looking around, etc. Granted, millions ot Thais have learned to do it, and the automatics are easy, but especially if the rider is afraid, it's very difficult.

[xbusman]

Thanks PB, I thought I was being a curmudgeon.

Thais are on motocy from the day they are born. They are standing on the seat by the time they are one. By the time they start to drive at 9 years old, they are very familiar with the chaos called traffic in Thailand.

To drive a motorcycle and survive here, you have to be very focused, very aware, very careful. No gathering wool or sightseeing unless you get out on the wide open road but even then, you have to be much more aware then the west. You might not remember learning to drive a bike but the clutch, throttle interplay took time. The three actions to apply brakes, clutch throttle brake, took time, particularly emergency braking. There is no room for learning on these streets, it will end up in learning the hard way.

This is a little like flying. Glad my instructors did not tell me take off, fly around a little bit where you dont see airplanes, and be careful when you land. When you put your hand on the throttle of anything here its deadly serious business. DONT tell a newbie to buy a bike and get used to it in such a deadly environment.

[madjbs]

It’s not as difficult as you make out, especially if you have a fully auto one. I wouldn’t recommend learning on the main road of course; learn to handle the bike on a quiet soi or in a car park. After you are confident riding on little sois then you can try a slightly bigger road and so on.

Edited October 30, 2007 by madjbs

[phutoie2]

Thanks PB, I thought I was being a curmudgeon.

Thais are on motocy from the day they are born. They are standing on the seat by the time they are one. By the time they start to drive at 9 years old, they are very familiar with the chaos called traffic in Thailand.

To drive a motorcycle and survive here, you have to be very focused, very aware, very careful. No gathering wool or sightseeing unless you get out on the wide open road but even then, you have to be much more aware then the west. You might not remember learning to drive a bike but the clutch, throttle interplay took time. The three actions to apply brakes, clutch throttle brake, took time, particularly emergency braking. There is no room for learning on these streets, it will end up in learning the hard way.

This is a little like flying. Glad my instructors did not tell me take off, fly around a little bit where you dont see airplanes, and be careful when you land. When you put your hand on the throttle of anything here its deadly serious business. DONT tell a newbie to buy a bike and get used to it in such a deadly environment.

Not exactly true my friend, my wife must have been one of the few who have never ridden a motor-bi.

When I bought her a new Honda click automatic I had to get the neighbours 14 year old daughter to teach her. She is ok now, but I still tell her to take care when she goes off to market etc. I have a lot invested in her name so do not want her going to the temple early!!.

When I visit the family home I now understand why she never got to ride a motor-cycle, even now only one battered pick up and occasional m/c.

Edited October 30, 2007 by phutoie2

[SnakeBite]

If you can't even ride a bicycle, don't go out and spend money on a motorcycle until you can at least ride a bicycle on a public road with other traffic.

[CHdiver]

]If you have enough money; you could think about buying a ATV.

At least you can not fall off so easy and take it slow. Servicing may be a little problem, depending where you are.

http://www.yamaha-motor.com.au/motor/index...p?modelcatid=13

Edited October 31, 2007 by CHdiver

[pattyboy]

I've never heard of motorcycle driving lessons being offered here (or anywhere for that matter) but those little 100-125 cc scooters are pretty easy to handle (for anybody who has even ridden a bicycle). If traffic makes you nervous, go to a parking lot or similar spot when the stores are closed (Sunday or early in the morning before they open). Take it very slowly at first and you really should get a handle on driving one fairly quickly.

Now that the original question has been addressed, I'll go on to say that they really are dangerous, especially in Thailand. I would bet that if you spoke to people who have ridden them for extended periods (a year of more) you would learn that the vast majority have had some sort of mishap -- anything from a bit of road rash to an all-out collision.

However, if you decide that you still want to use one (and keep in mind that they are probably safer to drive in a rural area rather than in a place like Pattaya) observe the "golden rules" -- 1) drive slowly and 2) don't make any sudden turns or other quick (last minute) maneuvers.

(Perhaps you should buy a cheap bicycle and get used to riding that first.)

Edited October 31, 2007 by pattyboy

[dancemonkeydance]

Thanks for the advice fellas. You're right about going for a bicycle first - I'm borrowing one for a month or two, hopefully learning the basics of ridng in traffic, then graduating up to an automatic scooter, and then, maybe, I'll be ready for the dreaded six lane highway u-turn maneuver...

I'm aware of the dangers of this, however the fact is I really like living in small town Thailand, but without a bike it's virtually impossible do anything here. And anyway, as long as I'm chugging along in the outside lane at 15 mph, what can possibly go wrong? Wait, actually, don't answer that...

[helitool]

I have taught many children and a couple of adults to ride bicycles all within 5-10 min max. Here is how to do it.

1. find a grassy field so that you will not be afraid of falling off the bike

2. find someone large enough to hold the bike upright by holding onto the back edge of the seat while you are on the bike.

3. With you on the bike and NOT peddling have the person holding the bike push you as fast as he can on level ground.

This allows you to concentrate on balancing and the higher speed you are going will allow you to feel the gyroscopic effect of the wheels better than if you are wobbling along at slow speed.

The person helping you can gradually loosen his grip on the bike as you gain confidence until you are doing it on your own. DON'T FORGET TO WEAR A HELMET!!!!!

[Moonfruit]

I've never heard of motorcycle driving lessons being offered here (or anywhere for that matter) but those little 100-125 cc scooters are pretty easy to handle (for anybody who has even ridden a bicycle). If traffic makes you nervous, go to a parking lot or similar spot when the stores are closed (Sunday or early in the morning before they open). Take it very slowly at first and you really should get a handle on driving one fairly quickly.

Now that the original question has been addressed, I'll go on to say that they really are dangerous, especially in Thailand. I would bet that if you spoke to people who have ridden them for extended periods (a year of more) you would learn that the vast majority have had some sort of mishap -- anything from a bit of road rash to an all-out collision.

However, if you decide that you still want to use one (and keep in mind that they are probably safer to drive in a rural area rather than in a place like Pattaya) observe the "golden rules" -- 1) drive slowly and 2) don't make any sudden turns or other quick (last minute) maneuvers.

(Perhaps you should buy a cheap bicycle and get used to riding that first.)

Ive been riding bikes here in Thailand, the majority in Bangkok, used every day. In that time i havent had one accident (touching wood), though each and every one of my other bike riding friends have, varying from no injury to fatal.

I like to think that thats because im a good rider, having been riding bikes from being able to walk, but its equally as much to do with luck. The secret is to be fully aware of everything that is happening, and more importantly to be fully aware of everything that MIGHT happen by surveying the traffic ahead.

Thailand isnt the best place to learn how to ride a motorcycle, but following the advice given by those above, and taking your time to become competent and more importantly confident, if it will increase your quality of life then o ahead and do it.

[Lickey]

Dancemonkeydance, if you live near Namsom [100ks and 10oclock from Udon Thani} i would willingly help you out, I have a bicycle, Mrs Honda 100cc auto wave, and a 1200 cc Yamaha, also brother in laws battered but funcitnal ford ranger pick-up, There is a big piece of grassland in the centre of the village or even on the farm if you want t abit of Off-road,

Hope i can be of help to you, Rural Thai is boring without you own wheels, Rgds Lickey.

Edited November 17, 2007 by Lickey

[jonny48]

I live in a pretty rural area without much public transport, so getting hold of a motorbike would improve my quality of life no end. Only problem is, I can't ride one and am seriously nervous about learning. I've never driven a car, and, due to the follies of youth / parental oversight I can't even ride a bike, so the usual 'drive on deserted country roads until you get used to it' technique isn't going to work with me. (in fact, the one time I tried, I was so nervous I had to pull in to the side, stop, and wait for other vehicles to pass before setting off again!) Any idea where you can get motorbike lessons that are a bit more comprehensive than the typical "Turn the key and move the handle away from you, you'll soon get the hang" style of teaching?

i dont know where you live , but in ubon there is a new honda show room with rider learning facilities, little roads out side the showroom where they teach you yo ride and help you get your license

[torrenova]

I'd recommend the OP just forget about it and move onto a truck if anything. Some people are not meant to drive though many of them do. Better and safter to crash a truck than a bike.

[ignis]

I thought you had to have a license to ride a motorbike ?

How do you take the test [+ in Thai] if you have never been on one, or even a pushbike ?

I have a car + Thai drivers license, could get a motorbike license because it is on my UK, German & Dutch licenses, but have not been on a Motorbike for 30+ years………….. makes one wonder though if petrol does hit 60 baht per lt within the year

[Etrigan]

You have already said you fear bikes and are nervous about them. How well do you think you would cope with your first dose of road rash?

Think about it.

[VocalNeal]

I've never heard of motorcycle driving lessons being offered here

Honda safety

DMD,

Don't listen to all the naysayers. We are all cynical and wizened don't be put off.

It depends on how far and for what you need to go. But don't give up. If all you want to do is go down to the local market or venture to the next village get on with it. My former GF lived in a village where the only traffic was the local 5pm cattle drive. You don't need to start on a bicycle. More things to do all that weight shift when you pedal. If you really live in the sticks and don't need to go really far there are those little 50cc scooters with no license plates because they cannot be licensed as they are below 50cc. Honda Click is not much bigger so have a look at both. You just can't take the 50cc ones on the main streets which you should keep away from for a while. I am not sure if one needs a driving license for them but..

To learn, as with a bicycle, you start but shuffling along with your feet just like the original bicycles. To do this on a bicycle you will have to remove the pedals but with a 50cc scooter it is easy. This shuffling will teach you balance and allow you to be in complete control all the time. My three year old was screaming to get the pedals put back on after two days but I insisted on a week. Then she was gone. When you are confident you can keep your balance start the engine and slowly work up the speed.

After a while you can take the test. It is not difficult but as a non-driver you will need to decipher the international signs as they are part of the written test. If you are really in the sticks they may not have the computer test as they do in BKK and one of the examiners may "help" you translate. The riding part is easy I did it last week.

Edited November 21, 2007 by VocalNeal

[torrenova]

You have already said you fear bikes and are nervous about them. How well do you think you would cope with your first dose of road rash?

Think about it.

Yeah, think about your Thai tattoos aka burns, gravel in the leg, other impact things which WILL happen. Not only the old pope does the "kissin' the tarmac tour" you know !

[Etrigan]

Ha, I love that Pope analogy. I first experienced this at the age of 17.

Take off - kiss the ground - take off again - kiss the ground - take off -....ok you get the idea!