A Beginner's Guide to Motorcycle Riding Posture

If long motorcycle rides leave you feeling fatigued, it might be useful to review the basics of motorcycle riding posture. The more you master motorcycle riding posture, the longer you’ll be able to ride and the better you’ll be able to control your motorcycle. Whether you’re a brand new rider or just in need of a refresher, these tips from East Bay Motorsports can help you improve your motorcycle riding posture.

Motorcycle Riding Posture Essentials

When riding your motorcycle, keep your arms and back relaxed at all times. This will allow you to comfortably absorb the impact of any bumps you encounter along the road. Since your body has a natural tendency to align with the direction you’re facing, you should also keep your head and chin up and facing your direction of travel. If you allow your gaze to wander, you’ll likely start to drift in that direction, potentially leading to dangerous situations.

Standard Motorcycle Riding Posture

The standard motorcycle riding posture is used for your typical day-to-day ride through the city. It’s easy to learn, great for minimizing strain, and almost anyone can do it. Riders sit upright while leaning forward by around 5 degrees with their hands lower than their elbows. Knees are kept bent at around 100 degrees.

Motorcycle Riding Posture for Long-Distance Trips

Good posture is the key to riding long distances on your motorcycle while minimizing fatigue. By keeping your knees bent at around 100 degrees and your hips bent at about 90 degrees, you’ll be able to ride for much longer and much farther without tiring yourself out.

Motorcycle Riding Posture for Racing

If you’re racing, you’ll want to do everything you can to make yourself more aerodynamic while maintaining a high degree of control over the bike itself. You can do this by getting as low as possible and leaning forward. Position your knees at a right angle (90 degrees) and keep your hips at a 75-degree angle. Overall, you should tuck your feet back as far as possible, with your body positioned in such a way that you are “hugging” your motorcycle.