Why is riding a bicycle so important to learning to ride a motorcycle?

Since 2014, we have been teaching new riders, we’ve see a lot. Some riders take to motorcycles naturally, most learn it very well, and some really struggle. We would love to have a 100% success rate but we do not. What we have found to be a major factor is the students ability to ride a bicycle or how recently they have ridden a bicycle. These students struggle to learn to ride, maintain balance and are at a higher risk of hurting themselves.
How come a bicycle is so important to learning to ride a motorcycle? Think of it this way. A motorcycle is a really heavy bicycle. If a student cannot manage to ride a 20lb/10kg bicycle then riding a 150kg/300lb (or heavier!) motorcycle is going to be a big challenge. A bicycle is two wheels, handle bars, hand levers, and balance. So is a motorcycle. The two compliment each other nicely. The students that learn the easiest are active bicycle riders, mountain bikers, or anything with two wheels requiring balance.
We want everyone to be able to learn to ride motorcycles with ease. This is possible with bicycle riding. Think of it as an essential part to learning to ride motorcycles. Can you learn to ride without it? Yes… but it is highly likely the experience will be stressful, frustrating, and painful. You will have a higher risk of injury.
Learning to ride a bicycle does not take long. Buying or renting a basic bicycle does not have to cost very much. A few hours on a flat trail through a park is all that is required. Nothing fancy. If you can ride a bicycle smoothly for 30 minutes without falling off. You are ready to learn to ride motorcycles.
Still have questions?
The best time to visit us is between 10am and 4pm, Saturday and Sunday. Outside these times, please call or email. We do not run an office.
Richmond Training Lot
7111 No 8 Rd. Richmond.
Coquitlam Training Lot
1401 Lucille Starr Dr. Coquitlam.
Learn to Ride with ICBC-Approved Training in Vancouver, Langley, Richmond, New Westminster, Burnaby & Coquitlam
Ready to hit the road on two wheels? At 1st Gear Motorcycle School in BC, we provide professional motorcycle training to help you gain the skills and confidence needed to pass your ICBC licensing (MST), your road test and to ride safely. Our Flexible Schedules allow you to choose between Evening + Saturday & Sunday and Evening + Thursday & Friday classes.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking for a refresher course, we’ve got you covered!
Why Choose 1st Gear Motorcycle School?
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ICBC-Approved Training – Learn from experienced, certified instructors.
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Multiple Locations – Motorcycle lessons available in Vancouver, Richmond, New Westminster and Coquitlam.
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Beginner-Friendly Courses – No prior riding experience needed.
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Motorcycle & Gear Provided – No bike? No problem! We supply everything.
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Flexible Scheduling – Evening (Wednesday or Thursday) and Weekend classes available. Choose between Evening + Saturday & Sunday and Evening + Thursday & Friday schedules.
What You’ll Learn in Our Motorcycle Training Courses
✔️ Essential motorcycle controls & handling techniques
✔️ Defensive riding & road safety skills
✔️ ICBC skills test preparation
✔️ On-road training with certified instructors
✔️ Emergency braking & maneuvering techniques
🚀 Our goal is to help you ride with confidence and pass your ICBC road test on the first try!
Sign Up Now & Start Your Motorcycle Journey!
📍 Locations: Vancouver | Richmond | New Westminster | Coquitlam | Langley | Burnaby
📞 Call Us: (778) 714-4327
📧 Email: info@1stgear.ca
➡️ Register Now for a Saturday & Sunday or Thursday & Friday schedule – Don’t wait, spots fill up fast!
Join hundreds of happy riders who trained with 1st Gear Motorcycle School and start your adventure today!