Harley Davidson Dyna Glide: Tips and Tricks for New Riders
While the Dyna is a straightforward machine and very user friendly, beginners could still stand to benefit from some tips and tricks. If you would like to learn more about your Dyna and how to ride it properly, this is the place to be!
This article applies to Dyna Glide models (1991-2016).
So, you finally got a Dyna of your own? Good call. The Dyna lineup has something to offer riders of all skill levels and ages. For the purpose of this article, we will discuss tips for novice riders on their Dynas and even an experienced riders looking for information on their first Harley Davidson.
Attend a Basic RiderCourse
The single most important aspect to consider when motorcycling is safety—that's where the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) comes into play. The MSF offers courses for riders of all skill levels. The Basic RiderCourse is the first evolution in your training as a competent and safe rider. The MSF will offer the use of a 250cc, lightweight motorcycle for this course, but I do not recommend using it. Unless you are afraid of dropping it, ride your own bike during the training course. The Dyna has a lower center of gravity, but it also weighs more than the loaner bikes, so your control inputs have to be a lot different. The MSF bikes also have a lot less power, so you use a lot more throttle than on the powerful V-twin Harley. If you are going to learn how to ride your Dyna safely, it stands to reason that you should practice on your Dyna. Plus, this will serve as an opportunity to familiarize yourself with your new bike in a controlled environment. Besides, everyone else will be jealous of your shiny, new Harley as you rip around the course with surgical precision!
Do not stop with the Basic RiderCourse, either! It is recommended to take as many different MSF courses as possible in order to make yourself a safer and more skilled rider. Course information can be found at the Motorcyle Safetly Foundation site (see Related Sites below).
Get Quality Riding Gear
Again, I hate to harp on safety here, but it really is that important. I am sure that you have heard it before. "There are two types of riders: those who have crashed, and those who will crash." There is more than a hint of truth to that old saying. While it isn't true that everyone who ever rides a motorcycle will one day get into a bad accident, the chances are high that you will at least drop your bike at some point. I am not saying this to dissuade you by any means, but simply to put emphasis on the importance of safety gear. I have been in several accidents, and have never been seriously injured. Some might call it luck, but I credit it to my riding gear. You should always have a helmet, boots, and long pants on, at the minimum. A leather jacket or vest, gloves, and protective pants/chaps are even better protection! I get that some think you look cooler without this gear on, but real riders know how essential good gear is.