Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well

[WingAdmin]

I have read David Hough's excellent columns in Motorcycle Consumer News for many years. Without fail, he writes simple, easy-to-understand pieces on what it takes to ride safely and defensively - something that we need to do more and more these days in the world of distracted drivers.

He mentioned his book, Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well, many times, so I decided it was likely something I should look into purchasing. I now leave this book on my nightstand, and regularly pick it up in bed for a quick refresher - I always seem to pick up something new.

This comprehensive book actually covers so much material that it is valuable for drivers of all vehicles, not just motorcycles. While there is plenty of motorcycle-specific information, there is lots that will help new (and not so new) drivers as well.

There is a lot of information in here that explains things that I do automatically, but have long since forgotten why - and why I might or might not want to do it! There are aspects addressing the physics of riding, and some helpful tips to perform advanced maneuvers - but overall, David concentrates on what you will need to do in order to stay safe in everyday commonly-found traffic.

If you are just a beginning rider, a returning rider, or an experienced rider in need of a refresher, I urge you to read this book. You will be a better motorcyclist for it.

Chapter 1: Risk!
Chapter 2: Motorcycle Dynamics
Chapter 3: Cornering Tactics
Chapter 4: Urban Traffic Survival
Chapter 5: Booby Traps
Chapter 6: Special Situations
Chapter 7: Sharing the Ride

Resources
Glossary
Index

Find This Item on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1620081199?tag=goldwingdocs-20

[brettchallenger]

The most common book used in the UK for motorcycle instruction (not beginners but users of motorcycles) is "Motorcycle Roadcraft" and is the official police officer's handbook. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Motorcycle-roa ... G4S0HAQY56

Bear in mind that everything in it is specific to the UK, including riding on the correct (left hand side) of the road. So if you are in a right hand driving country you will need to view it via a mirror.

Find This Item on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0117081884?tag=goldwingdocs-20

[kiwipete]

Roadcraft is also used by the Institute of Advanced Motorists in the UK and here in New Zealand. Its been around since the mid 70's and is available in both car and motorcycle specific versions.

[NVSB4]

As the Rider Educator for my GWRRA chapter, I keep a library of books, DVDs and manuals.
David's book was one of the first that I added.
You're right, there is some great information in there.

[Rednaxs60]

Refreshing the memory as well as the skills each year is always a good thing. A one day refresher or even another advanced course each year is good as well. It's amazing how sheepish you can get after having a winter layover and then try some of the patterns on the course.

Looked up the Roadcraft book but not shipped to Canada. have others including David Hough's book(s).

Cheers

[keithg64]

And David's next book More Proficient Motorcycling, Mastering the Ride.

[SilverDave]

Yes, I agree ... a great set of books !
And ... not only does Hough's last book ,
"Mastering the Ride " have all the same great hints of the first two books,
but its also in COLOUR !!

Available at Amazon .. for about $20 ! ISBN-13: 978-1935484868

and .. it has two appendices :
" TraveL " and " The Aging Rider "

Yes I've read " The Aging Rider "..... Sigh ... No I'm not ready to give it all up yet !!
But THAT time is getting closer...

LOL

SilverDave

Find This Item on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1935484869?tag=goldwingdocs-20

[echinus1988]

I am in the process of reading it. Interesting that Motorcycle Consumer News was his current venue and that he is now retiring.

I am reading it through slowly and picking up all I can. I stop and reread a section to make sure I understand.

Going to buy the paper copy for my friend (just getting into riding) and my son for the information that is in it. I feel both will get a real benefit out of it.

[GLer]

I have read David Hough's excellent columns in Motorcycle Consumer News for many years. Without fail, he writes simple, easy-to-understand pieces on what it takes to ride safely and defensively - something that we need to do more and more these days in the world of distracted drivers.

He mentioned his book, Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well, many times, so I decided it was likely something I should look into purchasing. I now leave this book on my nightstand, and regularly pick it up in bed for a quick refresher - I always seem to pick up something new.

This comprehensive book actually covers so much material that it is valuable for drivers of all vehicles, not just motorcycles. While there is plenty of motorcycle-specific information, there is lots that will help new (and not so new) drivers as well.

There is a lot of information in here that explains things that I do automatically, but have long since forgotten why - and why I might or might not want to do it! There are aspects addressing the physics of riding, and some helpful tips to perform advanced maneuvers - but overall, David concentrates on what you will need to do in order to stay safe in everyday commonly-found traffic.

If you are just a beginning rider, a returning rider, or an experienced rider in need of a refresher, I urge you to read this book. You will be a better motorcyclist for it.

Chapter 1: Risk!
Chapter 2: Motorcycle Dynamics
Chapter 3: Cornering Tactics
Chapter 4: Urban Traffic Survival
Chapter 5: Booby Traps
Chapter 6: Special Situations
Chapter 7: Sharing the Ride

Resources
Glossary
Index

I found this book for $1.99 on Barnes & Nobles, on paperback

Find This Item on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1620081199?tag=goldwingdocs-20

[Solina Dave]

I think the stars must have been aligned quite well this time. I just read our January 2018 Monthly Newsletter, and was drawn to the mention of David Hough's book, "Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide To Riding Well." It sounded like a read, and one that I'd find interesting, so I ordered a copy on-line from a local book retailer.
I received a gift, this Christmas, of a $25 gift card usable at this retailer, and I also had a gift card, from the same retailer, that had been given to me last Christmas. That card still had $1.34 left on it. The combination of the two cards equaled the price of the book, to the penny! What are the chances?
I'll definitely read the book, as it would seem that someone must think that it would be a good idea.

Happy New Year!!.......................Dave

[Alan_Hepburn]

If anyone is looking for other resources to help your riding, I recommend taking a look at the Motorcycle Safety Website - from the home page, click on the "Safety Tips" button and start reading. There's tons of great tips there, and the forum is good also! I've been a member there for over 10 years and learned a lot.