Motorcycling is a journey that begins with the first ride and continues to evolve with every mile. For those new to the two-wheeled world, the learning curve can be as diverse as the riders themselves. This article is inspired by the video below that humorously categorizes different types of beginner riders you’re likely to encounter. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, you’re sure to recognize these archetypes from the motorcycling community.
1. The A1 and A2 License Squid
European riders face a unique set of challenges with tiered licensing systems. The A1 license squid is restricted to motorcycles with no more than 15 horsepower, making the dream of power wheelies a bit distant. They often ride their 125cc bikes with pride, sporting full leathers and hoping their bike’s sound will make up for its size.
The A2 license holders have a bit more freedom with up to 47 horsepower at their disposal, but they still face restrictions that riders in other parts of the world don’t. These riders often aspire to own bikes that are considered entry-level in the United States but are desirable and aspirational in the EU and Australia.
2. The Turbo Busa Starter
The Turbo Hayabusa, or ‘Turbo Busa,’ has become a legendary figure in the motorcycling world, often joked about as the ultimate beginner bike due to its sheer power. Those who choose to start on a Turbo Busa are seen as having brains so large that they require extra-extra-large helmets.
Starting on such a powerful machine is a tongue-in-cheek suggestion, as it requires a high level of skill and experience to handle safely. The Turbo Busa starter is a rare breed, and their audacity is a source of both humor and caution in the motorcycling community.
3. The Research Rider and No Research Rider
These two riders represent the extremes of motorcycle preparation. The Research Rider spends countless hours diving into every detail about motorcycles, sometimes even uncovering ancient secrets along the way. They make informed decisions and often start with something manageable like a Ninja 300.
On the other hand, the No Research Rider wakes up one day, decides to buy a motorcycle, and impulsively gets a GSXR 600 on a whim. This rider acts on impulse rather than information, which can lead to a steep and sometimes dangerous learning curve.
4. The High Schooler with a Lawnmower Engine Bike
Necessity is the mother of invention, and this saying holds true for the high schooler who can’t yet afford a proper motorcycle. With determination and a bit of engineering, they attach a lawnmower engine to a bicycle, creating a rudimentary motorbike to satisfy their craving for two-wheeled adventure.
While it’s not the same as riding a real motorcycle, this DIY approach shows a genuine passion for riding. These young inventors deserve a nod for their creativity and their early foray into the world of motorcycling, even if it’s a bit unconventional.
5. The Cafe Racer Starter
Some beginners are drawn to the classic style and decide to start with a vintage UJM (Universal Japanese Motorcycle) that they can turn into a cafe racer. These riders spend more time wrenching than riding, often dealing with the quirks and challenges of older machines.
The Cafe Racer Starter is deeply invested in the motorcycle lifestyle, sporting the appropriate apparel and embracing the ‘built not bought’ philosophy. However, the advice to them is often to start with a reliable bike that runs well, allowing them to gain riding experience before taking on a project bike.
6. The 1000cc Starter
A step down from the Turbo Busa starter, the 1000cc starter is someone who chooses a top-spec liter bike for their first ride. These powerful machines are essentially race bikes with lights, demanding respect and experience to handle safely.
New riders on these bikes often find themselves overwhelmed by the power and potential of such machines. It’s common to find nearly new 1000cc bikes for sale with very low mileage, as riders quickly realize they’ve bitten off more than they can chew.
7. The Dirt Bike Starter
Dirt bike starters come to the street with a significant advantage, having honed their skills off-road. They are familiar with bike handling and may feel confident during their motorcycle safety courses. However, street riding presents a different set of challenges, including traffic laws and the unpredictability of other drivers.
These riders are encouraged to approach street riding with humility, acknowledging that the skills required for dirt and street riding, while overlapping, are not the same.
8. The 650 Starter
The 650cc parallel-twin motorcycle is often touted as the perfect starter bike, especially in the United States. It offers a balance of power and manageability that won’t be outgrown too quickly. The 650 Starter prides themselves on making a wise choice and may even evangelize the virtues of starting on a mid-sized bike.
While a 650cc bike can be an excellent choice for a beginner, new riders must still approach it with caution. These bikes have enough power to surprise an inexperienced rider, so a respectful and careful approach to learning is key.
9. The Scooter Dude
Lastly, there’s the scooter rider. While some may debate whether scooters fall under the motorcycle category, there’s no denying the practicality and fun they offer. Scooter riders are often seen as carefree and self-assured, enjoying the simplicity and low cost of scooter ownership.
Scooters may not always get the same respect as motorcycles, but they are a great entry point into the world of two-wheeled transportation. They’re easy to ride, nimble in traffic, and can be a joy to zip around on.
This light-hearted look at the different types of beginner riders celebrates the diversity of the motorcycling community. Whether you recognize yourself in one of these categories or know someone who does, it’s clear that the journey of a motorcyclist is as unique as the rider themselves. For more laughs and insights into the world of beginner riders, check out the original video that inspired this article.
