What is a common mistake new riders make when learning to ride?

Oversteering while trying to control the bike is a common mistake new riders make, primarily due to inexperience and a misunderstanding of how to handle the motorcycle. When riding, especially in turns, new riders may tend to overcorrect their steering inputs rather than maintaining a smooth, gentle touch. This can lead to instability and make it difficult to navigate turns effectively.

Understanding the importance of balance and keeping a steady hand on the handlebars is crucial for new riders. Proper body positioning and anticipating the motorcycle's responses to steering inputs can significantly enhance control and safety. Additionally, as riders gain more experience, they learn to trust the motorcycle's natural lean in corners, which helps to alleviate the tendency to oversteer.

The other options, while relevant to riding safety and competence, do not directly address the immediate control of the motorcycle in motion as steering does. Neglecting protective gear, not checking tire pressure, and riding without a lesson are important safety concerns but do not affect the basic mechanics of riding and steering that new riders are generally struggling with.