HOW-TO GUIDES

Learn How to Park Your Motorcycle Like a Pro

Conquering curves and cruising open roads are just part of the thrill of riding a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. But what about those seemingly mundane moments, like parking? Masterful motorcycle parking isn't just about convenience; it's about safety, control and maintaining that pristine shine on your beloved motorcycle.

This guide on how to park a motorcycle will help you through the entire parking process, with steps and tips to transform parking from a chore into a smooth and confident maneuver.

HOW TO PARK YOUR MOTORCYCLE LIKE A PRO: MASTER THESE SIMPLE STEPS

Whether you're navigating a bustling city street or a quiet neighborhood road, learning how to park your motorcycle involves a few key steps:

Scout Your Spot: Don't simply settle for the first curb you see. Choose a level, stable surface free from potential hazards like potholes, uneven gravel, or protruding objects. Remember, that curb you overlook now could become a tipping point later. Look for a spot that offers enough room to maneuver easily when leaving.
Signal Your Intent: Communicate your parking plan clearly to fellow drivers. If you’re parking your motorcycle on the street, activate your turn signal well in advance and maintain it until you're fully stopped.
Gear Up for Stability: Before coming to a complete stop, shift your motorcycle into first gear. This prevents unexpected rolls and makes pulling away a breeze when it's time to hit the road again.
Brake with Control: Smoothness is key when parking. Apply both brakes evenly and gradually, bringing your motorcycle to a complete stop with your hands firmly on the handlebars and feet planted flat on the ground.
Lean and Steer for Precision: As you turn toward your chosen spot, don't fight the handlebars. Gently lean your body in the direction of the turn while steering the motorcycle. Aim for a slight angle that provides extra room for maneuvering later.
Find Your Footing: Once settled, locate your balance. Dab both feet down, distributing your weight evenly and ensuring you're firmly planted. Remember, your feet are your anchors!
Secure Your Stand: Engage the side stand to its full, forward position before turning your handlebars to the left and leaning the motorcycle over the side stand to park. Double-check for any wobbles before letting go.

HOW TO PARK A MOTORCYCLE ON HILLS

Conquering hills requires extra planning and finesse. For learning how to park a motorcycle on a hill, you should follow the steps above but also keep in mind the additional tips below:

Direction Matters: Park facing uphill whenever possible. This prevents the motorcycle from rolling forward in case the stand fails.
Lean into an Incline: Tilt your motorcycle slightly into the hill when engaging the stand. This distributes weight evenly and reduces the chance of tipping.
Find a Firm Footing: Look for solid ground for your feet, avoiding loose gravel or slippery surfaces. Remember, your stability is crucial on an incline.
Park the motorcycle in first gear: It’s recommended to park the motorcycle in first gear to lock it into place, making it more stable.

BEYOND THE BASICS: MOTORCYCLE PARKING TIPS

Now that you've mastered the essential steps, here are some extra tips to elevate your parking game like a seasoned Harley rider:

Keep It Cool: When possible, park in the shade to protect your leather and chrome from the harsh sun. If you can’t avoid parking in the sun, place something—like a jiffy stand coaster—beneath your jiffy stand to keep it from sinking into asphalt.
Steer Clear of Traffic: Turn your handlebars slightly toward the curb to prevent them from being clipped by passing vehicles.
Lock it Up: Invest in a strong, weatherproof motorcycle lock and chain to deter potential thieves.
Cover Your Bases: For longer stints of parking, be sure that you protect your investment with the help of the right type of motorcycle cover.
Practice Makes Perfect: Find a safe, open area to practice your parking maneuvers until they become second nature. And don't wait for real-world challenges to test your skills—find a safe incline or narrow space to practice parking on hills and in tight spots. Repetition builds confidence and prepares you for any situation.

One final tip: enroll in a motorcycle class and master the ways of the road with the help of experts. Get guidance in courses and training designed for the needs of riders of all skill levels at the Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy. Learn more today and see why life’s better when you know how to ride.