The Right Way to Mount and Dismount a Harley-Davidson
📷 Image source: slashgear.com
Why Proper Technique Matters for Harley Riders
Avoiding Embarrassment and Injury
For many, the iconic silhouette of a Harley-Davidson represents the ultimate expression of freedom on two wheels. Yet, before the rumble of the engine and the open road, there's a fundamental skill every rider must master: getting on and off the motorcycle correctly. According to slashgear.com, a surprising number of drops and minor injuries occur not while riding, but during these seemingly simple maneuvers. A heavy touring model like an Electra Glide or Road King can weigh well over 350 kilograms, making balance paramount.
Proper technique isn't just about looking cool—though that's a bonus. It's about safety, protecting your motorcycle from costly damage, and ensuring you start every ride with confidence. The process engages core muscles and requires a mindful approach, especially for new riders or those transitioning to heavier bikes. How many seasoned riders have a story about that one time they almost dropped their bike in a parking lot?
The Pre-Mount Checklist: Setting the Stage
Before you even swing a leg over, preparation is key. The report from slashgear.com emphasizes that everything begins with the motorcycle itself. Ensure the bike is in first gear. This provides crucial resistance against rolling, acting as an extra parking brake. Next, verify that the kickstand is fully deployed and on solid, level ground. A kickstand sinking into soft asphalt or gravel is a recipe for a tip-over.
Position yourself on the left side of the motorcycle—the same side as the kickstand. This is non-negotiable. Stand close to the bike, facing the handlebars. Your body position here sets you up for the entire mounting sequence. Take a moment to gauge the bike's weight and your footing. Are you on an incline? Is there gravel under your boots? These few seconds of assessment can prevent a world of trouble.
Mastering the Mount: A Step-by-Step Guide
Leveraging Physics, Not Just Strength
With the bike secure and you in position, it's time to mount. The slashgear.com guide details a method that uses leverage, not brute force. First, grip the front brake lever firmly with your right hand. This locks the front wheel and prevents any forward roll. Then, place your left hand on the right handlebar grip, reaching across the tank. This cross-body grip is the secret to stability.
Now, using your right hand on the brake and your left hand on the opposite grip, you can control the bike's lean. Lean the motorcycle slightly toward you, onto the kickstand. This counterintuitive move actually makes it more stable and lowers the seat height. Only then should you swing your right leg over the seat. Do it in a smooth, high arc to clear the luggage or rear fender on touring models. Settle into the seat gently before straightening the bike upright.
Finally, retract the kickstand with your left heel before you forget. It's a simple step, but a deployed kickstand in a corner can have catastrophic consequences.
The Art of the Dismount: Reversing the Process
Dismounting requires the same deliberate care as mounting. As you come to a stop, finish by putting your left foot down first. According to slashgear.com, always plant the kickstand with your left foot before you even think about swinging your leg off. This ensures the bike has a stable platform immediately.
With the bike stopped and in first gear, keep the front brake applied. Lean the bike slightly to the left onto the kickstand, confirming it's fully engaged. Then, and only then, swing your right leg back and over the seat. Maintain your grip on the front brake until you are fully standing beside the motorcycle on the left side. This controlled, step-by-step reversal prevents the all-too-common scenario of a rider getting off only to watch the bike slowly keel over in the opposite direction.
Handling Heavy Touring Models and Baggers
The techniques outlined become even more critical with Harley's full-dress tourers. These machines, laden with fairings, luggage, and fuel, have a much higher center of gravity. The act of leaning them onto the kickstand requires a bit more commitment. You must trust that the stand will hold. When mounting, the cross-handlebar grip is essential to manage the increased weight.
For riders with shorter inseams, the challenge is greater. The guide suggests using the footpeg as a step can be helpful, but only if done with extreme care to avoid losing balance. The fundamental principle remains: control the bike's lean with your hands and arms before your body weight is fully committed to the seat. The margin for error is smaller, making flawless technique non-optional.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Learning From Others' Mistakes
Most drops happen due to a handful of predictable errors. One major mistake is trying to mount from the right side. The kickstand isn't there to support the lean, and the bike will almost certainly fall. Another is forgetting to put the bike in gear, allowing it to roll forward or backward as you try to get on.
During dismount, a frequent error is swinging your leg over before the kickstand is solidly down. In your haste, you might only partially deploy it. The bike seems stable until your weight shifts, then the stand collapses. Rushing is the enemy. Every step, from braking to leaning to leg swing, must be intentional. What feels like a slow, awkward process at first will soon become second nature—and your bike's paintwork will thank you.
Building Muscle Memory Through Practice
Reading about it is one thing; doing it is another. The slashgear.com report strongly advises practicing in a safe, open area like an empty parking lot. Practice mounting and dismounting repeatedly without starting the engine. Get a feel for the bike's weight and balance point. Have an experienced friend spot you if you're unsure.
This builds the muscle memory needed for when you're tired, on an uneven surface, or in a crowded lot. The goal is to make the procedure automatic, so you perform it correctly without conscious thought even under less-than-ideal conditions. It's a foundational skill, as important as knowing how to use your clutch or brakes.
Beyond the Basics: A Ritual of Respect
For seasoned Harley riders, the mount and dismount sequence transcends mere procedure. It becomes a ritual, a moment of connection between rider and machine. It's the first and last physical interaction of a ride. Performing it with care sets the tone for the journey ahead and shows respect for the motorcycle's engineering and mass.
Mastering this fundamental skill is the true mark of a competent rider. It demonstrates control, understanding, and a commitment to safety that extends beyond helmet laws and speed limits. It’s the unspoken code that separates those who simply own a Harley-Davidson from those who truly ride one. The open road awaits, but it all starts with two feet firmly on the ground and the right sequence of moves.
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