Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well
by David L. Hough
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Book Summary Information
Author: David L. HoughEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2008-04-22
ISBN: 1933958359
Number of pages: 288
Publisher: BowTie Press
Book Reviews of Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well
Book Review: Excellent for beginners and riders alike, you'll learn something new or at least review a lot of useful ideas
Summary: 5 Stars
Proficient Motorcycling 2nd Edition
Hough's Proficient Motorcycling is probably the best single book to read for beginners. Many reviewers have regarded Proficient Motorcycling as mandatory for all riders, and should be included with a motorcycle purchase. I agree completely, because Hough does an excellent job explaining the concepts. He doesn't just write, he includes basic physics diagrams, and lots of color photographs to drive the points home. He doesn't get lost in technical jargon, although you will notice some differences in his style compared to Keith Code simply because Code is writing to improve your road course racing skills more than traffic skills. That said, the physics apply in either case, and Hough's book is a excellent primer.
Counter-steering, front braking, safety equipment, statistics, and road hazards are all covered in Proficient motorcycling. Hough doesn't focus on pivot steering or using just the front brakes as much as Code. Like I said before, Hough is more concerned about typical hazards one encounters on the road, and the skills needed to survive in that setting. However, pivot steering is hinted by Hough when he describes an exercise to improve U-turns or tight turns. Basically the outside peg is used as a pivot point during a turn, as described by Keith Code. Hough just mentions using the outside peg to position your body which is a similar idea. Hough does mention using the front brakes, but not to the extreme as Code.
Many of the concepts covered in Proficient Motorcycling are covered in operator's manuals provided by the state when taking the written exam or road test. There are lots of good tips, and Hough doesn't skimp on covering typical road hazards. He talked about canines, soda cardboard boxes, crossing railroad tracks properly, rough roads, etc... Needless to say, it is a sobering look at riding. I came into motorcycles looking at the radical super sport and sport bikes (race replica stuff, such as the Suzuki GSX-R1000 or Yamaha YZR-F1) but the more I researched and read, the more dangerous it seemed. Hough doesn't let you forget that you only have 2 wheels with limited contact patch and traction compared to an automobile.
Hough and Code both recommend using ear plugs for higher speed riding due to the wind noise that is known to cause hearing loss. Some states may have regulations against this, but it makes sense. I cannot stand the wind noise from driving a convertible on the highway, let alone riding a motorcycle with a limited windscreen and insulation!
Overall: 5/5 stars
Summary of Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well
This fresh update of the world's best introduction to safe street-riding techniques now marries color imagery and contemporary road scenes with expanded content and more real road hazard strategies written in clear, concise,easy-to follow instruction that has made the book #1.Transportation Books
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