6. The 5 basic controls

LEARNERS (CBT) OVERVIEW OF CONTROLS

There are five basic controls that you must master in order to operate and ride a motorcycle safely. There are many other important controls, but until you have reached a level of proficiency with the five basic controls, you will struggle with other aspects of riding a motorcycle. You should learn what each of the bike's controls are before you attend and have an understanding prior to the day. You will be better prepared, less anxious and stressed by the new skills needed to operate these controls.

THE CLUTCH

• Pull in the clutch to select 1st gear
• Use it slowly when pulling away
• Disengages the drive when in gear
• Aids smoother gear changes
• Used for controlling the motorcycle at slow speeds 
• Stops the engine stalling when stopping

THE THROTTLE

• Use a flat wrist
• Twist gently to accelerate smoothly 
• Do not be aggressive
• Turn it away from you to slow down

FRONT BRAKE

• Use all four fingers
• Finger tips only
• Use when the bike is in an upright position and in a straight line
• Use to reduce from high to low speed
• Never use in a corner or when bike is turning

REAR BRAKE

• Use at slow speed
• Use if cornering or steering the handlebars

GEAR LEVER

• Sequential gearbox – up or down one gear at a time
• Speed up – change up
• Slow down – change down