Best way for a newbie to prepare for taking motorcycle course?

[tjv189]

I'm interested in taking the MSF course in the near future. I have never rode a motorcycle before, but it is something I want to try to get into. I have been doing a lot of research, reading a lot about everything from safety in the MSF handbook to what kind of motorcycle I could see myself getting if I pass the course.

I know this is kinda a dumb question, but I wanted to ask what things would you suggest someone in my position do to prepare themselves for success in the MSF course? Would you recommend practicing riding a bicycle to get used to being on 2 wheels? Or should I just keep reading and learning everything I can? What things did you do to prepare yourself for the MSF course?

I don't know anyone who lives near me who has a motorcycle (I wish I did). So what would you guys suggest I do to prepare? Thanks in advance.

 

[It's That Guy]

If you can ride a bicycle, you don't need to practice that. It will come back to you, just like . . . well, just like riding a bicycle. 8^)

You're already doing more that most people do! If you've read the DMV booklet, the MSF literature, you already know more than most other students you'll see in the MSF course.

As for not knowing someone with a motorcycle, why not ask here? Or on your local Craigslist? Lots of areas have people who organize group rides, and some of them are specifically 'newbie friendly', so they go over an easy course, they take it easy, they watch out for you (that's the idea of group rides anyway, to watch out for one another). Most places, the Harley Dealer has some organized rides, and you don't have to be riding a Harley.

Failing that you could just advertise on Craigslist (which is free) to see if you can find someone who will ride with you on the weekends, or answer some questions you might have. I would do it if you live in the San Francisco area, and I'm sure there are other bikers who would love to also.

 

[JAMES]

It is helpful to know how to ride a bicycle, but I've taught students who didn't. If you've EVER ridden one, don't worry, it'll come back to you right away on the motorcycle.
Don't worry about whether you can shift a manual transmission, or even drive a car. It's not necessary.
The instructors will gear their teaching to your level of experience, and will try to match you with students with close to the same level of experience.
The important thing is to arrive well-rested and ready to learn. The instructors will try to make it fun, but remember that riding is serious business with safety issues, so Listen To What They Say, and when in doubt, ask questions. There are no stupid questions, and if you have a question, chances are you're probably not the only one, so don't be shy!
The course is a unique opportunity to have fun AND learn at the same time. Even experienced riders who take the course are surprised at how much they learn.

 

[Buster Brown]

Do some stretching exercises, get a good night's sleep and eat a good breakfast. The MSF course id for beginners. You should have an interest and a desire to ride, but you don't need to bring anything else. Come with an open mind, and be prepared to have fun.

 

[John]

first off u need to learn drive car with clutch. get good at it. i mini bike or scuter to start. just to get the throtle down . most people who reck when learning how to ride twist the throtle,start to go,then it thros u back just a little,it accerates more u get scared and go faster abd faster. that is the only big problem. im perty sure u need to have ridin for a while to take a safty course. last thing u must deside if u can handel being paralized or bones brokin or death from biking. ive had a bike sence i was 18 im 54. had 10 different bikes. 3 with over 100,000 miles on them.more info e mail me

 

[bluff mike]

Just breath and relax.
Daughter passed Harley-Davidson's "Riders Edge", she hadn't ridden a bicycle since she was a little girl and still can't drive a standard shift truck worth a flip.

 

[Firecracker .]

Yes to the bicycle.
In addition to the MSF handbook, get the one from your state's DMV.
Unless that's the one they use, of course.