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Message started by AlisaB on 04/19/04 at 11:11:47

Title: Basic Rider Training
Post by AlisaB on 04/19/04 at 11:11:47

Well I did my rider training course this weekend.  All I can say is WOW!!!  It is the smartest, best investment any motorcyclist can make.  I now can't believe that I have ridden the way I have as long as I have - I have been very unsafe and unknowledgeable.  I would recommend this class to any and EVERYONE who rides.  I feel so much better and safer now as a driver of a motorcycle - still not feeling secure with other people on the road - and never will.

Anyone who has a motorcycle or is thinking about getting one really needs to do this.  Even my father who has ridden for 40+ years wants to do it.

I definitely plan to do the experienced rider course later on and regularly.

Just wanted to share.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by james may on 07/21/10 at 10:08:47

Yup it's a great course I want to take the advanced course next year.  You take that on your bike and the savage is so much better at handling with much better throttle control than those 250 standard bikes they use in those courses.  Only thing is it's harder to stand up to cushion over obstacles on a cruiser.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 07/21/10 at 10:19:42

Just be careful people that take those courses think they know how to ride,Then they crash.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by james may on 07/21/10 at 13:19:30

At the end of my course my teacher told us we were now qualified to ride around in a parking lot...

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 07/21/10 at 13:59:33

In that parking lot you get in another parking lot you will be lost.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by cursal on 07/21/10 at 14:34:50

I agree the MC Safety Class is the way to go.
Get some good info and training before riding the real pavement.

Then once you get out and on the road really practice what was taught.
That's where you money spent has real value...using what you learn.

I've posted before and shall again that Captain Crash On YouTube has some good vids to review and learn from.

http://www.youtube.com/user/CaptCrashIdaho

I plan on doing Advance Training this summer :)

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 07/21/10 at 14:44:05

If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by james may on 07/21/10 at 17:21:49


Quote:
   If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle


Unfortunately it doesn't work the other way around lots of people who can ride motorcycles don't have the coordination or fitness level to ride a bicycle.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by WD on 07/22/10 at 05:58:04

Hey, watch it...

Just because I have a 2-4 pack a day habit, live on coffee and diet coke with the occasional gas station burrito, and consider the steps into my big rig a good workout...  :-[

I haven't been on a pedal bike in 12 years, don't miss them a bit.


Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by alcoa on 07/22/10 at 06:34:20

msc best money spent :)

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by ArielT on 07/22/10 at 06:35:03

I liked my MC Saftey Class, but I was still scared shitless the first time I rode on a real road.  Nothing makes up for experience, but it's a good head start.


6E6560603A3B0C0 wrote:
If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle
Which probably explains why I learned both around the same time.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by DianeS. on 08/10/10 at 15:40:01

In Canada, we have a graduated license system, so you have to earn your M1, M2, and then your full "M" license.  While you don't have to take any courses to pass each step, I'd highly recommend the courses.

In 2005, I took my M1 Exit Course (Basic Safety Course) and learned a lot!!!  The instructors were great, and they provided a variety of bikes to use during the weekend - sport bikes, cruisers, dirtbikes, etc.

This past weekend, I did my Advanced M2 Exit Course and earned my M license!  I figured I'd rather take the course, where you get lots of practice with instructors, and then do the test with the same instructors on the Sunday.  Rather then, go to a Drive-Test Center and be examined by a complete stranger.

Anyway, I'm so happy to be a fully licensed motorcycle rider!!!! ;D 8-)

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Charon on 08/10/10 at 18:20:02

You may notice that Bill does not support formal motorcycle rider training. He has never attended such a course himself, by his own admission, but he is absolutely sure they could teach him nothing. I suggest simply ignoring any comments he makes about the MSF courses.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 08/10/10 at 19:19:52

You may notice that Charlie doesn't support Sea Foam,he has never tried it himself,by his own admission,but he is absolutely sure  that it does nothing.I suggest simple ignoring any comments he makes about Sea Foam.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Charon on 08/10/10 at 19:35:29

Once again, Bill, you are off topic. The topic is "Basic Rider Training." And perhaps you did not notice, but my user name is Charon.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Jerry Eichenberger on 08/11/10 at 08:25:10

I took the MSF course after a 40 year layoff from riding.

I found it very helpful.  Sure, you aren't riding at highway speeds nor in traffic, but basic control techniques are just that - techniques.

Even though my course was on a Honda Rebel, so what?  A bike is a bike when it comes to the basics.

As for Bill's experience and not needing to go back to basics once in a while, when I was a chief check pilot for my wing years ago, I loved flying with some of the guys who thought they knew it all.  Give me 10 minutes with a big head like that and I'd have that large ego swimming in self doubt.

After doing that, I's usually go fly with a standardization instructor pilot just to refresh myself.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Buster on 04/22/12 at 17:25:14

Just finished (and passed) the training today and if you ride, this is probably the best investment you can make. I spent 90% of the ride portion trying to learn/relearn proper technique...and mainly realizing that safety training today is light-years beyond the safety training course I took 30 years ago.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by SALB on 04/23/12 at 13:14:14


654B5253486548434E4942270 wrote:
Just finished (and passed) the training today and if you ride, this is probably the best investment you can make. I spent 90% of the ride portion trying to learn/relearn proper technique...and mainly realizing that safety training today is light-years beyond the safety training course I took 30 years ago.


I did mine last summer, and yes, it is the best thing for both a newbie or seasoned rider.  I'm thinking about taking the advanced class on "Lil Suzie" just to see what she (and I) are capable of. :)

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 04/23/12 at 13:17:40

If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle.No course needed.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by scottnj on 04/23/12 at 13:30:52

If you can ride a bicycle in traffic at 70 m.p.h then you can ride a motorcycle.  :)

I took the basic course and found it worthwhile, but probably not necessary for everyone.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Jerry Eichenberger on 04/23/12 at 13:40:56

Bill and I disagree on most topics, this one included.  As I said in an earlier post, I took a 40 year hiatus from motorcycling.  During a good part of that time, I was an enthusiastic bicyclist, riding an average of 50 miles per week during suitable weather.

While there are some similarities, they really aren't all that many.  Few people get killed in bicycle accidents, or even hurt that badly.  It does happen, but not typically.

A good bicycle rider can cruise at maybe 20 mph, but more likely around 15 or so for an average, middle aged person.  Hit anything at that speed and it will hurt, but with a helmet, probably not kill you.

Hit that same thinhg at 50 mph or higher on a motorcycle, and all bets are off.

My bicycle weighs less that 20 pounds.  My S40 is considerably heavier - the control techniques for the two aren't the same.  Rider posture is very different.  Control in turns is much different, since you don't have engine power ( other than your legs ) being transferred to the rear wheel to increase to maintain dynamic stability.

For some reason, fewer cars hit bicycles.  Maybe its because of the colorful jerseys and helmets that most bicyclists wear, and the slower bicycle speeds allowing for more time for a driver to see the bike, as opposed to black jackets, black jeans, and black helmets seen on all too many motorcyclists, and the higher speeds of motorcycles.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Buster on 04/23/12 at 13:45:29


595257570D0C3B0 wrote:
If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle.No course needed.


So, when you ask the guy on a bicycle what would he do when approaching a rain slick corner at 50mph with a truckers "road gator" blocking the path, and panic-stop braking causes front wheel to wobble or the back tire to skid...what do you do when he just says  :-?

About the same as saying: "If you can ride a three-legged donkey you can ride Secretariat. No horse training needed."

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by verslagen1 on 04/23/12 at 14:13:23


2E2520207A7B4C0 wrote:
If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle.No course needed.


That explains why klotz works for you bill.
How you hook up the pedals?
Front wheel like a big tricycle?

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by SALB on 04/23/12 at 14:55:28


565D58580203340 wrote:
If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle.No course needed.


Having ridden bicycle in downtown traffic, where you're required to ride in traffic and follow the rules of the road, I'd say a course for either could be helpful. >:(  Besides, if Bill is against it............... ::)

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Savage_Rob on 04/23/12 at 15:10:01

When I had been away from riding for about 15 years, I took the BRC and found it very worthwhile.  I don't think they had them around in the mid 70's when I was learning to ride but they're a good deal now.  Also, some (not all) insurance companies offer discounts if you've successfully completed the BRC.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 04/24/12 at 06:40:23


537D64657E537E75787F74110 wrote:
[quote author=595257570D0C3B0 link=1082398307/15#18 date=1335212260]If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle.No course needed.


So, when you ask the guy on a bicycle what would he do when approaching a rain slick corner at 50mph with a truckers "road gator" blocking the path, and panic-stop braking causes front wheel to wobble or the back tire to skid...what do you do when he just says  :-?

About the same as saying: "If you can ride a three-legged donkey you can ride Secretariat. No horse training needed."[/quote]

So what did your teach tell you to do in that rain slick situation.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Buster on 04/24/12 at 15:00:35


03080D0D5756610 wrote:
[quote author=537D64657E537E75787F74110 link=1082398307/15#21 date=1335213929][quote author=595257570D0C3B0 link=1082398307/15#18 date=1335212260]If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle.No course needed.


So, when you ask the guy on a bicycle what would he do when approaching a rain slick corner at 50mph with a truckers "road gator" blocking the path, and panic-stop braking causes front wheel to wobble or the back tire to skid...what do you do when he just says  :-?

About the same as saying: "If you can ride a three-legged donkey you can ride Secretariat. No horse training needed."[/quote]

So what did your teach tell you to do in that rain slick situation. [/quote]


He told me at least 9 things to do in that situation. If you want to know, sign up for the training course and then you'll know too.  :) Besides, you didn't answer my question.

BTW, my instructor set 27 World Records during his racing days...and about 20 years later, 3 of those World Records are still unbroken.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Retread on 04/24/12 at 16:48:33

 Way back in the day I was a instructor, this was when the AMA would offer the beginner course for free to whomever wanted it.. Here in Colorado they now cost over $100 and the state has only a few places that acutally test for M/C endorsement. I highly recomend the courses offered, including advanced courses, even just for brushing up on basic skills.. I put myself through the paces after finishing each bike I rebuild, because each bike has its own handling character, some are real characters.. :D

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by martinfilms34 on 04/24/12 at 17:04:35

I think the main thing here is that there is no disadvantage to taking the course (riding wise). It'll teach you good skills and even if you already "knew" everything its always good to brush up.
Here in Florida its actually required to take the course in order to qualify for an endorsement.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Retread on 04/24/12 at 17:18:03

I just don't approve of the cost, I believe the AMA should provide basic courses for nothing, it promotes motorcycling..

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by martinfilms34 on 04/24/12 at 17:30:08

Exactly why i said riding wise, cost wise its a bit of a disadvantage but it could pay off in the long run.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by verslagen1 on 04/24/12 at 18:43:51


596E7F796E6A6F0B0 wrote:
I just don't approve of the cost, I believe the AMA should provide basic courses for nothing, it promotes motorcycling..

where can you rent a bike with a high risk of accident for cheaper?
Then hire someone to give you lessons for 2 days?
and rent a building and a lot for you to go wild in?

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Retread on 04/24/12 at 19:24:54


687B6C6D727F797B702F1E0 wrote:
[quote author=596E7F796E6A6F0B0 link=1082398307/15#29 date=1335313083]I just don't approve of the cost, I believe the AMA should provide basic courses for nothing, it promotes motorcycling..

where can you rent a bike with a high risk of accident for cheaper?
Then hire someone to give you lessons for 2 days?
and rent a building and a lot for you to go wild in?[/quote]

  You don't have to rent a bike, the course is for bike owners, there are plenty of empty lots to give the course, a simple form of liability release, and a few cones.. It aint rocket science it is basic bike handling, safety, and simple maint!  The basic course used to be a one day, six hour affair... Why does everything circle around a dollar? >:(

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by verslagen1 on 04/24/12 at 20:06:56


03342523343035510 wrote:
  You don't have to rent a bike, the course is for bike owners, there are plenty of empty lots to give the course, a simple form of liability release, and a few cones.. It aint rocket science it is basic bike handling, safety, and simple maint!  The basic course used to be a one day, six hour affair... Why does everything circle around a dollar? >:(

I agree, but every class has some clown that looses it and no parking lot large enough.  in this country of lawyers, a grass roots class won't last 5 minutes.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Retread on 04/24/12 at 20:22:29

They used to.... Some things should not change... Sometimes change is just for profit...

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Dj12midnit on 04/24/12 at 21:51:45

The course is still offered for free in this country, just join the military. Problem solved.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 04/25/12 at 00:57:00


745A4342597459525F5853360 wrote:
[quote author=03080D0D5756610 link=1082398307/15#25 date=1335274823][quote author=537D64657E537E75787F74110 link=1082398307/15#21 date=1335213929][quote author=595257570D0C3B0 link=1082398307/15#18 date=1335212260]If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle.No course needed.


So, when you ask the guy on a bicycle what would he do when approaching a rain slick corner at 50mph with a truckers "road gator" blocking the path, and panic-stop braking causes front wheel to wobble or the back tire to skid...what do you do when he just says  :-?

About the same as saying: "If you can ride a three-legged donkey you can ride Secretariat. No horse training needed."[/quote]

So what did your teach tell you to do in that rain slick situation. [/quote]


He told me at least 9 things to do in that situation. If you want to know, sign up for the training course and then you'll know too.  :) Besides, you didn't answer my question.

BTW, my instructor set 27 World Records during his racing days...and about 20 years later, 3 of those World Records are still unbroken.[/quote]
Don't for get the order of the nine things he taught you for that situation.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Buster on 04/25/12 at 04:17:33


343F3A3A6061560 wrote:
[quote author=745A4342597459525F5853360 link=1082398307/15#26 date=1335304835][quote author=03080D0D5756610 link=1082398307/15#25 date=1335274823][quote author=537D64657E537E75787F74110 link=1082398307/15#21 date=1335213929][quote author=595257570D0C3B0 link=1082398307/15#18 date=1335212260]If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle.No course needed.


So, when you ask the guy on a bicycle what would he do when approaching a rain slick corner at 50mph with a truckers "road gator" blocking the path, and panic-stop braking causes front wheel to wobble or the back tire to skid...what do you do when he just says  :-?

About the same as saying: "If you can ride a three-legged donkey you can ride Secretariat. No horse training needed."[/quote]

So what did your teach tell you to do in that rain slick situation. [/quote]


He told me at least 9 things to do in that situation. If you want to know, sign up for the training course and then you'll know too.  :) Besides, you didn't answer my question.

BTW, my instructor set 27 World Records during his racing days...and about 20 years later, 3 of those World Records are still unbroken.[/quote]
Don't for get the order of the nine things he taught you for that situation.[/quote]

Evasion #2, noted.  ::)

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by scottnj on 04/25/12 at 13:03:56

This thread got me thinking about the MSF offerings again, and I just signed up for an Advanced Rider Course for this Saturday. Anybody taken this? MSF courses are a deal in Ohio -- just 25 bucks.  I'll report back on whether I thought it was worthwhile. I figure it wouldn't be bad to have a refresher and practice emergency stops and the like at the beginning of the season.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 04/25/12 at 16:00:01

People don't like to admitted they pulled a dumb stunt so they will aways say what they did helped.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by SALB on 04/25/12 at 16:06:45


43484D4D1716210 wrote:
People don't like to admitted they pulled a dumb stunt so they will aways say what they did helped.


So what dumb stunt did you pull that using klotz helped? :-?

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by bill67 on 04/25/12 at 19:23:58

Used a none motorcycle oil once.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Jerry Eichenberger on 04/26/12 at 15:04:54

In Ohio, the course costs $25; Honda Rebel and fuel included.  All you have to own are helmet, boots, long sleeved shirt or jacket, and long pants.

How they can afford to supply even an inexpensive bike, fuel, insurance, and maintenance on the bikes for $25 escapes me - the state subsidizes it to a great degree.  No profit there.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Retread on 04/26/12 at 15:46:10

Maybe not there, here in CO $125, your OWN bike, and limited access.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by Buster on 04/26/12 at 16:01:17

For me it was $200 for 2 days/16 hours. 4-5 hours (guessing) in school room 9 hours on the cycles, including water breaks while riding, plus hour each day for lunch. Training course provided bikes, and all the Red Bull you wanted for that price.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by SALB on 04/26/12 at 16:25:21

The Idaho STAR program is part of the state college system.  Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday for the Basic II course is $105, every thing included.  The best part is that the course(assuming you pass) counts as the state practical, which is $25. 8-)  They also have a trike/sidecar class.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by tizzyfit on 04/30/12 at 07:36:30


7C77727228291E0 wrote:
If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a motorcycle


In terms of balance issues, being able to ride a bike is a start.  Where you need to make the mental and physical changes has to do with the clutch, brakes and shifting.  On a normal road or street bicycle, you only have to deal with both hands, your feet remain clipped in the pedals.  Where as, on a motorcycle, you need to develop the coordination to incorporate your feet for both braking and shifting.  Way more to think about and way more involved than riding a bicycle.

Title: Re: Basic Rider Training
Post by rodeoclown on 04/30/12 at 14:39:47

I just finished my msf course a week ago it was totally free and the class was a blast. I am going to sign up to be a range aid.

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