What should you check before riding an unfamiliar motorcycle?

Before riding an unfamiliar motorcycle, it is crucial to check the controls and shift pattern. Each motorcycle may have unique features, such as the location of the gears, brake controls, and other essential components. Understanding these features is vital for ensuring safe and effective operation of the motorcycle.

By familiarizing yourself with the controls, you can prevent mishaps while riding, such as unintentionally engaging the brakes, failing to shift gears smoothly, or not using the turn signals appropriately. The shift pattern can vary significantly from one motorcycle to another, especially between standard, sport, and cruiser models; knowing how to shift gears on a new bike is critical to achieving a smooth ride and maintaining control.

While checking the gas level and tire pressure are important for a safe ride, they do not provide the comprehensive understanding of how to operate the motorcycle, making it essential to prioritize the controls and shift pattern first. Additionally, aspects like the color and design of the motorcycle do not impact its functionality or your ability to ride it safely, making them less relevant in this context.