Just because an Audi or BMW driver isn’t using their indicators doesn’t mean that they aren’t going to randomly turn......
And just because they appear to be looking at you doesn't mean they won't pull out. Look at their wheels,are they inching forward ?
Don’t forget to enjoy yourself, motorcycling is one of the most exciting and liberating experiences, my advice would be to make sure you make the most of the summer, as the season is far too short, get up early make the most of empty roads and enjoy some inappropriate speed, that’s what riding a bike is all about, we’re all rebels at heart.
Slightly different from other pieces of advice, but buy a 125/250. Then thrash it mercilessly. You will find the limits of the bike's and your ability quite soon. Learn to carry corner speed and how a bike behaves when it's at its limit. You will also learn how to plan ahead to ride smoothly and maintain momentum. You will learn more about bike control and stability in a few months than you will on a bigger bike that can travel at speeds way in excess of your ability. It's really frustrating to get behind a biker that brakes hard into corners and goes around them 20mph slower than you want to than accelerates hard once round it..... Keep it smooth.
All good advice posted so far. Uncorrugated's suggestion to buy a small bike is great advice. Keep it smooth: smooth on and off the brakes and throttle. Gently squeeze the brakes to start and increase your pressure gradually. Don't stab the brakes. Riding smoothly allows your bike's suspension to do its job and keeps the bike composed. Remember you are invisible to all but the police. be polite, not just to other drivers, but to people in parking lots and stores. You are going to learn just how many older people have stories to tell. Avoid road rage, keep a cool head. Ride within your abilities but keep challenging yourself to get better. Don't overextend yourself. Riding in the adverse weather conditions will tire you out more quickly. Especially be aware of the last hour of your ride when you are not as alert as you were when you started. Most of the accidents I've seen have been at the end of the day, not at the beginning. If riding with a group it's a good idea to agree on places to take breaks along the way, so everyone can regroup and catch up. Have fun. And avoid the temptation to take a passenger for a ride until you've got more riding experience. A passenger changes the whole dynamics of your bike. If you can, take one of your mates for a ride before taking your best girl out for a ride. Get a full face or modular helmet if you don't already have one. Find comfortable gear so you will wear it every time you ride.
Everyone has given you great advice Before every ride I check to make sure my brake lights and indicators are functioning as they should. Check your tire pressures and the conditions on a regular basis Have the discipline to be sensible and ride within in legal limits in built up places. You don't need to be a doormat to other road users but let's be considerate much as we can. Learn to do the basic maintenance on your bike and keep on top of those maintenance Whether its a half an hour ride or a day long ride and no matter what the temp is.....I am always in full riding gear. This is because long time ago I learned it the hard way When new be careful who you ride with. You might be riding with an experienced rider but he might ride without consideration for you as a new biker. This could possibly get you into lot of trouble. Learn to ride within your limits and take one step at a time Don't fall for the bait of fast cars and riders out there. Take it easy and enjoy your ride, go home safely, park your bike and admire your bike with a big grin All the best buddy
