u/JYS_777

▲ 5 r/MotoUK

Riding in survival mode

I’m a beginner rider with adhd & autism (CBT + 3 DAS sessions) I’m struggling because my body goes into fight/flight as soon as we go on the road. I become tense, overloaded and my riding performance drops. I’ve driven cars for years with no accidents, but also found learning stressful initially(I find listening to music improves my driving)

I’m not making reckless decisions, but I get overloaded managing everything at once (road position, gears, clutch control, roundabouts, lifesavers, planning ahead, listening to instructor on comms etc). This leads to hesitation, going too slowly or missing things when overwhelmed. I’m also learning in a completely unfamiliar area and usually with another learner who already has road experience which adds pressure.

My instructor is good and talking me through things helps but I feel like I’m constantly riding in survival mode. I handled the slow speed work way better on the 600 than the 125 because the bike felt more stable and required less constant throttle input. It did kind of shoot my confidence not being able to do it on the 125 I really struggled with keeping the revs steady and doing a slalom.

I’d really appreciate advice on drills, learning environments, confidence building, YouTube vids(be the boss of your motorcycle really helped), or anything that would help, also hearing from any adhd or autistic riders that might be able to share some tips. I’m not interested in rushing a test, I want to feel confident and genuinely safe in control of the bike first.

reddit.com
u/JYS_777 — 2 days ago

I'm essentially driving myself crazy trying to decide what gear to get before I do my DAS. I'll be riding on UK roads 60-70mph. I don't live near any shops to go in and try stuff and get advice so I have to order online.

I want the best protection so I'll wear AA rated at the very least.

However, I'm unsure of what gear is restrictive or a bit of a nuisance for a beginner.

How much do I spend? I'd rather buy once and pay a bit more than get cheap stuff and replace it or have things I don't need, I also don't want to be stupid with all the gear no idea and waste money.

For example, because I want to save my ankles I was thinking to get supertechs or smx plus boots, but is this overkill, will I be able to shift as a beginner with a boot or do I get riding shoes for my training/tests?

Do I get full leathers or just a leather jacket and riding jeans?

reddit.com
u/JYS_777 — 17 days ago