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Safety Home
Video: how cars see/don't see riders Motorcycle Operator Manual: PDF format A former course instructor gives you the five key points to remember when approaching test time! |
2003Dear VTwin Mama, Friday, January 17 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Lojuana, Tuesday, February 11 Dear VTwin Mama, I would sign up with a MSF course, but in my state there are very few classes and only 12 lucky people can be in them once a month. So I would have to go with a private school. But when I went out on the website, I saw that I can do pretty much everything they teach in this one day class already. I can do all the basics, but I am concerned with how to handle traffic and all the big-time situations. So I guess my question is before I fork out $295 for a basic 1-day class, do I REALLY need it? I would love to just take their "advanced" class but I would suspect you have to go through the basic class first. So there goes almost $600. I am really disappointed with my state and would take a MSF class in a heartbeat, but I am forced to sign up with a private class. Spring is approaching fast and I am dying to get on my bike. But I am so nervous about leaving my neighborhood. What do you think I should do? Thanks for your help! – Jackie Dear Jackie, I agree, this can be done without taking a course, because that's how I did it (not necessarily knowing any better!). I was only "forced" into a course later because I was in the military at the time and in order to ride my bike on base I had to take a 3-day course. Here's the main thing I got from it -- an expert watching my every move, correcting my body position and handling techniques and forcing me to maneuver with a lot of preciseness. No fudging or kinda doing it or saying "close enough." And all the reading and videos aren't going to do that for you. Still, logging 3000 miles isn't going to happen in the safe confines of a course area, even following the basic course. You're still going to need to get out into traffic. Sunday mornings usually have the least traffic -- so that's where I would start. Some VTwin Mama sisters have suggested that you map out routes by car first, paying particular attention to any trickier intersections, blind spots, where cars are normally parked, and such so that you have everything in mind first. I think that is very wise! Do you have any experienced rider friends who can tag along with you on your first rides out? If not, consider joining one of the several excellent women's riding groups now (some links are at the bottom of the VTwin Mama home page) and find out if there are some gals in your area who are willing to be your mentors. They've been there and done that, and would be a valuable resource for you over the long haul. Good luck and let us know what you decided and how it's going! We support you 100%! – Mama Dear VTwin Mama, I wanted to ride early and practice before the course so I can be warmed up and ready, last year I rode my Honda 600 from April thru November, I want to move up to a bigger bike and take the course with the bigger bike, but now I am scared. It is the end of February and still so cold and the snow will not let up. Anyhow, now I am getting scared about taking the course. I learned how to ride a motorcycle at the safety course and I failed the first time -- it was so hard and humiliating. Last year was my first season riding and now I am going into my second. Do you have any suggestions? – Angela Kosar Dear Angela, Second, I can understand that the weather in your area has kept you from riding and practicing your hard-won skills, and that the course you've signed up for is approaching quickly. Seriously consider contacting the course instructors and asking if it is possible to switch your Intermediate course sign up for a later date in the calendar year. I think you would benefit greatly by riding for pure enjoyment (and building up skills) for awhile before tackling another class, especially if you will be getting a more powerful bike soon. You simply need time to log much-needed miles under your belt. None of this advice is intended to put you off taking the next level course. I always feel that a little bit of nervousness in pursing a new goal is a good thing (!) -- to me it means that I'll be tackling something worthwhile and that whatever I learn is useful. Still, it's possible to chew off a little bit too much, too fast. You've got a lifetime of riding ahead of you -- and it shouldn't make you miserable! Examine your thoughts on this and then act accordingly -- your true inner instincts should be your guide. Don't worry about gearing back a notch to achieve your goals at a pace that may make more sense for you. I'm often excited about something in January that simply requires more thought in the long run! – Mama Thursday, March 6 I am in the same position you are as far as experience. I took the MSF beginning course last May and rode all summer. I have had it out 2 times during the winter and rode about an hour each time. I was glad to read your question because I have been thinking about moving up to an intermediate class also, but I think after reading Mama's advice, that I will spend some time on back roads outside of town (I live in the country) before moving on to a higher class. Good luck to you and please keep us posted as to your progress. I am sooo excited about getting to get back out but I live in Oklahoma and it is in the 20's today. So, I will have to wait a bit longer. Take care. – Lou Ann (note from Mama: it's always nice when someone writes in just to let someone else know that they are not alone! Makes a big difference!) To Angela who is moving up to a bigger bike before taking the intermediate class....why do that to yourself? You don't need to do that. Take the class with the bike you have, don't get ahead of yourself and put more pressure on yourself that is unnecessary. Take it, pass it with the bike you have. Then, when you move up to the larger bike, practice on it the same things you learned in the class. They recommend you have at least 6 months riding under your belt in PAs Experienced rider class. You won't have anywhere near that on a new bike if you buy one before the class. Good things come to those who wait. Do the class, gain your confidence from that, then move onto the bike of your dreams. I promise it'll still be waiting for you when you are ready. You will be even more ready after the class. – Deb in PA (note from Mama: exactly!) Monday, March 10 When I took my course it was in the summer, but the last day it rained and I'm not accustomed to riding in the rain, even after riding for 14 years. Just take it nice and slow and get as much riding time in as possible. Take it easy Angela.– M&M (aka Linda) (note from Mama: easy does it makes sense!) Friday, March 14 Move to Florida!! Just kidding. I live in Florida and am very thankful for our wonderful year round riding weather. I started riding 2 years ago March 17. When we finished the course our instructor took us back in the class room and spent some time just chatting with us about things. One of the most impressive things he said as were about to leave was that we could do one of two things with our certificate. One, we could go home and ride occasionally and a year from now we would still be beginners. Two, we could ride every chance we got, every day if possible and a year from then be an experienced rider. I for the first several months rode every day even if for only a little while. I now put in at least 100 -300 miles each weekend. I ride with a group of riders who have been riding most of their lives and keep up with most any condition they do. Just like playing the piano, practice, practice and more practice. I am 61 years old and live to ride now! – Carol (note from Mama: I recommend staying tucked up on the couch when there is unplowed snow on the ground or a high degree of black ice possibilities -- but then maybe I've become a weanie! I'm no longer a huge fan of really cold weather riding any more, but then I did my share of that when I was younger! Still, your point is well-taken -- ride every chance possible -- it makes a difference.) Tuesday, April 22 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Ann, Flat foot on either of the bikes you mentioned is a good start, and just about any bike can be retrofitted with an easier clutch for smaller hands. Yes, lighter bikes tend to get "rocked" in wind conditions easier, but the overall "fit" of the bike is more important. Flat foot for good control at stops, easy reach to handlebar controls, leg position when you're riding, etc. We've often advocated on this site that it can be useful to buy a smaller used bike for cheap for that practice time. Take a look in your local paper for 400-600cc bikes for under $1000 (or less!). Then, when you've got some local miles logged in this summer, you'll be in better position to evaluate what your "dream" bike will be, and would not have spent very much on that practice bike (which can then be resold without having lost much). I know that you want to join your hubby dearest on the longer trips, but remember, you might not feel comfortable right off the bat taking these longer trips. If you're not ready right away, but need to do just shorter day trips in your area -- then say so! Getting comfortable in traffic can take a while -- so make sure you learn and practice at YOUR pace (including practice in empty parking lots for a bit, then slowly starting to ride on Sunday mornings when traffic is really light, etc.). The worst thing you can do is take on too much too fast because you're trying to please someone else. This is not chicken -- this is smart! Experienced or more "natural" riders sometimes forget how nerve-racking riding a bike for the first few months can be! Be honest with yourself and others on how fast you are progressing and what you think you can handle. While men CAN be wonderful supporters of these efforts, please consider contacting a local women's riding organization for added support (links to some of the top groups are at the bottom of the VTwin Mama home page). These women have been there, done that and are ready to talk with you! Also, check my Let's Ride section -- there are two VTwin Mama sisters in your area who could maybe help. Good luck in May with your course -- we're behind you 100% and look forward to the day you're cruising down the road with confidence -- hopefully one of us will give you one of your first biker waves! – Mama Dear VTwin Mama, My first lesson was a disaster but a funny one, for sure. I rode down the parking lot, did great, felt great, came to a stop and immediately toppled over like the guy on Laugh-In that falls off his tricycle. Ok, nobody told me how to stop and I forgot to put my feet down. Duh. The next attempt went fine until I stopped and then accidentally hit the throttle and drove myself into a small structure doing about $500 damage to the bike. I know you're probably all falling off your chairs laughing and it was funny because only my pride and the bike got hurt. Being the good woman I am, I got back on the bike and rode around the lot for about 10 more minutes just to prove I could. I then signed up for the MSC and toward the end of the course, it started to rain. Well, I do have such good luck because at the time, we were practicing quick stopped and I managed to lock my brakes, went down and ended up with a sprained ankle that set me back two months. I then went back to the MSC and got my license. I spent the rest of the summer riding and enjoying it to the hilt but underneath it all, I remain afraid of my bike because in my head, I think it's too big but I'm afraid if I get a smaller bike, I won't like it. I've dropped it a couple of times but have learned to literally step off of it and not get hurt. One time, a great guy on a Harley stopped to help me pick it up and told me to quit being so paranoid about dumping it because it happens to the best of the best. Does anybody have any thoughts other than telling me to stay off the road:-) Thanks! – Momma B Dear Momma, So let's take a closer look at the fangs on that bike. First, you forgot to put your own feet done, and that's just dang funny. I'm sure you're not doing that any more. Second, you were stopping and accidentally hit the throttle -- who HASN'T done that? -- the trick is to shift into neutral just before you stop, so if something goofy happens at the stop, and you hit the throttle, the bike isn't going ANYWHERE by accident -- it'll just be loud and that's hairy scary enough! Third, you locked the rear brake in rain -- a classic no-no, so don't jam the back brake any more! Last -- you're getting into a bad habit of ditching the bike at the first site of dumping it. That's kind of hard on the paint job -- and in the long run, will not be a satisfactory method of parking your bike at a big rally! Conclusion: You have made just about every mistake a beginner could right off the bat. The Harley guy was right -- don't get paranoid, but at the same time, the question is, are you leaning from your mistakes? If you keep repeating the same mistakes -- get back into a riding class and work some more on your basic skills. Even better would be to get a one-on-one instructor who could work on the specific problems you are having. No darling Momma, you don't have to get off the road, or even get a different bike -- but I sure don't want the road to keep biting you in the patookus! That's never going to make you a good rider and will eventually erode all your remaining confidence and enjoyment. And I so dearly want you to give me a biker wave without falling off. Trust me on this -- take one step backwards in order to go forever forwards. You're worth it (and won't be the first to repeat the basic course in order to become a fantastic rider in the long run)! – Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Thursday, May 8 For Momma B who is having some challenges with beginning riding: When I was reading Momma B's letter, I was struck by her statement that she was afraid if she got a smaller bike, she wouldn't like it. I was very lucky to have a "two bike" period of overlap. I kept my Honda Rebel 250 for about a month after bringing home the Moto Guzzi California Stone 1100. I rode the big bike around for a few weeks and then decided I was finally ready to take a passenger (I'd only been riding a few months total). So, I hopped back on the Rebel to tote my boyfriend around for the first time, and it was so FUN! The little Rebel had less power, but it was so light and maneuverable! I zipped all around the parking lot, waiting for my boyfriend to turn up for his ride. After riding the big bike, the Rebel was such a breeze. I even practiced my cone weaving and turns (which were SO TRICKY in the MSF class), and they were simple. It was neat to be able to suddenly ride REALLY WELL (when not long previously, even the Rebel had been a challenge). Anyway, my point is that if Momma B could find a little, inexpensive motorcycle to ride for a short time (maybe without giving up her nice Shadow), she might have a lot of fun, in addition to building her confidence. I certainly prefer my bigger Stone, but I'd take any opportunity to ride a small bike for the pure pleasure of it. – Marina (note from Mama: good points here from the voice of experience!) Share Your ThoughtsTop Monday, May 19 For Momma B who is having some challenges with beginning riding: I only started riding 7 months ago, after turning 50. Before that I was my husband's passenger on his HD Heritage Classic. I took the Safety class as I didn't want him teaching me. With my new motorcycle endorsement I started on 1985 Honda Shadow 500cc. Rode that for 3 months having a blast, and then upgraded to an HD Dyna Low Rider. What an awesome machine! Unfortunately, the bike was difficult for me in slow turns, U turns and in parking lots. It was just too heavy. I'm 5' 4", 125 lbs so not a big person. I did drop it in a parking lot that was slanted and I did not compensate. Thank God for engine guards! No damage to the fabulous paint job and logo. I got back on and rode for 3 more weeks but was very shook up and leery of those turns and parking lots. I was not about to give up after working so hard to gain those riding skills. I finally decided to rent an HD Sportster 883 Hugger for a day at our HD dealer. What a difference in maneuverability! More like the Shadow but much more powerful. I sold the Low Rider and got a 2000 HD 883 Hugger. It's the best bike for me. So, Momma B, don't give up! – Barbara Crumley (note from Mama: more and more I'm publishing letters from women who first choices in bike didn't exactly meet their needs, but by sticking with it to discover better solutions they are enjoying the riding experience. Good points made here!) Share Your ThoughtsTop Dear VTwin Mama, Now, is it just me or is the point of taking a course so I can get to learn, get pointers/criticism, and practice those things? I am a little confused about the role of this class. I felt they were rushing me. That pretty much leaves me to my own devices so I was wondering if you can give me some advice on how to properly balance (at low speeds)? Please please any help would be GREATLY appreciated! (There is hope for me right?) Thank you very very much and have a great day. – Marisol (a little disappointed but still determined) Dear Marisol, Even if you can ride a bicycle, having the power of the motorcycle beneath you might have been difficult right off the bat in terms of balance. So please, don't give up yet -- if this is something you truly wish to learn, then stick with it. My suggestion is to find a private tutor who can school you on a very small bike (even an automatic 50cc putt-putt bike would fit the bill here) so that you can get use to balance and the power of a bike. Or, you might contact a local chapter of a woman's riding organization (links are at the bottom of this home page) and see if they can help you find someone appropriate. Readers, any other suggestions? – Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Wednesday, June 4 Before I attended a riders course my husband had to convince me that riding would be fun. I spent a bit of time riding round and round my grassy front yard, at no more than second gear. Even after this practice it still took more time after my course to really get the hang of slow riding balance. A grassy spot is good, a good sized yard or a bit of park. This way if you make a mistake you only have to hose off the clods, not cry at the scratches. Avoid any dirt. Try going up and down in speed, slowing down to a crawl instead of trying to start from it, this is what you will need it for anyway in slowing to intersections, etc. Make sure you are in first gear, ride the clutch right on the edge so it's only just pulling you along, use the foot brake to keep you slow enough, and keep the revs up to a fast idle. Don't be worried if you have to swivel the handlebars to maintain the balance, it's normal. As my very patient instructor explained to me, the gyroscopic force of the motor turning over and cylinders pumping will assist in keeping on the straight and unwobbly, hence the higher revs. Have you ever seen the thing with a bicycle wheel? Hold it by it's axles and spin, then let go one side of the axle. It doesn't fall out of your hands, the spinning gyroscopic force keeps it upright, and that's what your engine does for you at slow speed. Practice is paramount, the more the better. I think it was very unprofessional of the instructor to send you away, what are they there for if not to teach? From my experience a one on one instruction is very beneficial, they only look at you. Regards, – Marion Ongarato (ShadowPuss) in Australia (who is going to decorate her new bike with a pussycat and paw print motif and get PUSS on a custom plate) (note from Mama: thanks for the wonderful note of support!) When I first started riding I had to pass what's called a 'skills handling test' (I'm from New Zealand). I failed the first time because I couldn't ride slow enough in a straight line (on a 50cc scooter). The guys told me to go and practice on a bicycle. It is different from being on a motorbike but you are having to balance, I would ride as slow as I could up and down a short path on a chalk line I had drawn. Well, all over the line to start with *grin*. I would stand up on the peddles of the bicycle. Doing that gave me a sense of balance and also a bit of speed control. I know it's different, but it does kinda convert to being on a motorbike. Good luck for your course Marisol. Take care all. – MJ (note from Mama: in lieu of finding a motorcycle to practice on before trying the course again, this sounds like a great idea!) I agree with starting small. The first bike I rode was a 50cc Honda (about 100 years ago). After that I gradually worked up and now have a Volusia 800. Good luck and stick with it. – Gloria (note from Mama: I remember taking my original motorcycle test on a 50cc bike and I think you can learn a lot from working on basic skills with such a small bike to begin with.) Share Your ThoughtsTop Dear VTwin Mama, Unfortunately, the BMV does not give any specific dimensions for the test. I am finding it difficult to practice for a test with such little information. I am not sure how tight my curves have to be or how fast I will have to accelerate. The BMV insists that no one be on the testing site after hours. Why is there such secrecy ? Do you have any info or suggestions for me. I would greatly appreciate any advice. Thanks! – Frustrated in Ohio Dear Frustrated, I'm not sure what the deal is on all the secrecy. I do know that you don't have to take that test if you had passed an MSF course (but you noted that classes were filled). Perhaps it would be useful to contact your local MSF course provider (www.msf-usa.org) anyway and ask them about cone placement distances -- as I assume they would have to do similar placements that the BMV would do. They generally are good about answering questions, and you might even contact the main headquarters to ask your question. And it's just been so long since I took the tests, that I don't remember how far apart they are set (and couldn't find anything on the Internet that shows this). I do remember that it's useful to be able to "slip" your clutch lever -- meaning that you can bring your bike to such a low speed as to nearly stall it, then engage the clutch just enough with a minimum of throttle (gas) to ease the bike into moving forward while maintaining your balance. Then you play that little bit of throttle while you "slip" the clutch to engage and disengage as needed to maintain forward momentum. This allows you to maneuver around cones at shorter distances at the lower speeds needed. As to acceleration, if I recall correctly, the point of the test is to accelerate along a given set distance and then demonstrate your ability to shift down and stop at a precise location. You might want to postpone your test if you are inclined to contact MSF to see if they can enlighten you on cone placement distances. Recent MSF course takers -- do you have an answer on this? Or, you might just want to take the test and see for yourself. I don't recall that it actually costs any money (until you actually pass) other than your time. Then you would know if you need additional work on some of your riding techniques. With your previous riding experience, this may prove to not be necessary. – Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Judy, Please consider contacting Bobbie Carlson (yes, it's a woman!), the senior manager of MSF's Motorcycle Safety & Training Standards and bring this situation to her attention. She can be reached by calling 949-727-3227 (this is Florida) or email her at bcarlson@msf-usa.org. Between the two of you, I'm sure you can figure things out, and I think it's appropriate to give MSF headquarters a chance to make things right (if something wasn't done right at the local level). – Mama Friday, July 4 For Judy who didn't finish the MSF course: I took the course twice, different instructors each time. I did really good the first time but took it again as a refresher a year later. I will say the instructors were good both times, but the first one was a little more patient. That can make a huge difference to you. You paid for training and I agree you could contact the MSF manager and see what she thinks. – Sarah (note from Mama: your letter of support goes a long to showing that teachers come in different flavors, just like the learners!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Woody, Kudos to you for sticking with it -- I think practicing with cones is a wonderful idea -- and while it may not seem "real world" riding to you, trust me on this, it will be to your ultimate benefit! Everything we learn about handling a bike will come into play at some point in your long-term riding experiences. It's sort of like your least favorite subject in school -- you may not use it much, but when you need it, it's there! – Mama Saturday, July 5 For Judy who didn't finish the MSF course: You're not alone. I had to take the MSF course twice myself. The first time I took it it was in October, the very last class of the season. The motorcycles had been pretty beaten up by then. I had never ridden before so naturally I was scared. I got two male instructors, one was a retired gentleman from the military and the young one was a active military drill instructor quite full of himself. We did not hit it off very well and what was worse, I had an ill running Honda Nighthawk 250 that I could not control the throttle on. If I'd had any idea it was the bike and not me I would have asked for another bike. Needless to say I didn't pass the skills part of the test and the written part was no problem. I aced it. So in April of the following year, it was the very first class of the season. The bikes had been serviced over the winter, so everything was running just fine. I succeeded in passing the course, I lost a few points in the speed curve, but still passed. The instructors were a male and female that were out there to give all the help they could, to see that your learned everything. They were extremely helpful and would give you feedback and help with anything that they observed that was being done incorrectly. Instructors make a big difference in how you learn. Taking the class the second time was probably the best thing I ever did. I was so much more comfortable and confident in my skill level. Be persistent. You can do it.– Marlene (note from Mama: for beginning riders it can be very difficult to judge if the instructor or bike is not "up to snuff." I wonder if MSF has an official position on this?) Tuesday, July 15 When I was first starting out, my husband felt that would be a good way for me to practice the cone maneuvers. We saved $ by buying large red plastic drink cups which we turned upside down to simulate the cones. Worked great...and saved $ for more important things like CHROME. – Bootygrandma, aka Betty (note from Mama: thanks for the alternative suggestion!) Tuesday, August 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, My boyfriend and I went up to the local BMV after closing hours. We made a blue print of the entire course - which I might add took forever. After that, we went up to the local drugstore and bought some sidewalk chalk. We drew the course on an empty parking lot every day for several days before the test. I practiced like a mad women. I took into consideration the tips the that you gave me and they helped a lot. During the test I was very nervous, but very determined. I passed with a 100% score. How do you like me now? HaHa. My boyfriend said he was very proud of me because no matter how discouraged I became, I never gave up. I guess something's in life are worth fighting for and from that moment when I passed I knew the hard work and many miles of riding was worth it. I took the test the day before my vacation to Hollywood, Florida. My boyfriend and I rented some bikes from Harley-Davidson in Ft. Lauderdale. It was great because I got to ride a Heritage Softail! Now that's a smooth ride. We rode down to the Keys and back. It was so beautiful-and an experience I will never forget. Thank you for your advice again. – No longer frustrated in Ohio Dear
No Longer Frustrated, Tuesday, August 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, Anyway,
the course was fantastic and very well constructed.
One woman, new to standard trannies and bikes, did fail to show for
range day 2, but she was riding better than some of the newbie guys that stuck
it out. Sure, I could shift and ride some, but couldn’t swerve and U-turn
and quick stop like I wanted. Now
it’s to the dealer to rent and ride. I want to check my seating on, and the
handling of, a Low Rider, Super Glide Sport, and VROD. Dear
Jim (or should we call you young un'), I can appreciate the new "lease on life" feeling you're experiencing -- I always feel the need to "howl" just a bit more when I'm cruising along on a beautiful day. Are they carding you at "R" rated movies now?! – Mama Thursday, August 21 For Shirl who dropped the bike a few times (who hasn't): Don't worry about dropping your bike. When I was learning how to drive my Sportster, I dropped it 5 times in the garage trying to get it out for a ride. I went through so many sprocket covers my local shop offered me a case price!!!! – Maureen in Maryville (note from Mama -- tee hee hee hee -- a case price! Well, a little sense of humor on these things never hurt!) Dear
VTwin Mama, My husband was kind of annoyed. He seems to forget that I am still a beginner. I really think I am going to retake the MSF course....that is if I can get in. Last time I was lucky to get in last minute b/c someone transferred. I know a lot of you have dropped your bike at least once, so that helps me feel better and not so stupid. I tried to do that maneuver to lift a fallen bike, but couldn't seem to get it. A guy pulled over and helped my husband put the bike back on two wheels. My husband says the bike isn't running right now since the drop. – Michele Dear
Michele, This does NOT mean you cannot handle the Hugger. What I would advise however, is that your husband ride that bike over to an empty lot somewhere so that you can begin practicing without the limitations of traffic or street signs. First, just ride it without any thought to specific start/stop points so that you can get the feel of the bike, shifting gears, etc. As your confidence builds, then set up cones or make chalk marks in that empty lot to simulate street corners and stop signs and begin practicing the specific traffic maneuvers you'll need in real life. If it takes tens or hundreds of times to "get it," then so be it! Sometimes when we are in a rush to please someone who is important in our lives, it sets up a nervous reaction. We want so much to do well but are afraid that we will disappoint that person by not learning it quick enough. So we do too much, too quickly -- and the result is frustration all around. You definitely need to have an honest, frank talk with your husband about your learning curve. By this I mean, tell him EXACTLY how he can best help you (reminding him that small statements of positive reinforcement of what you're doing right is MUCH more helpful than yelling at you when you don't do something right immediately). If you feel that retaking the riding course will benefit you -- by all means, go for it! I also truly believe that you can simulate the same learning structure that the course provided. Set small goals for each practice session, discuss with your husband what you hope to achieve, talk about how you'll do that, and then stick with it! Small steps VTwin Mama sister is the key. You CAN DO IT! If necessary, get both bikes to the "safe" zone and try your goal on the smaller bike, then on the bigger one. As for dropping the bike, well, there it is! Congrats on trying the pick up the bike technique. My guess is that you were in a rush to try it and nervous that you couldn't do it right away. So again, practice at home by laying the bike on it's side on an old piece of carpet. Then take your time to master the technique. Then, should you need it for real, you'll be ready. Your last statement about the bike not running the same after the dump has a ring of guilt to it -- but as I don't know your husband, it's hard to say whether he was just pissed that it happened (and wanted to make you feel bad) or whether he was just expressing concern about the mechanical ability of the bike (it can be fixed), etc. Again, teachers are very, very special people with the ability to help a student learn and understand mistakes without bludgeoning you with a guilt trip. If necessary, axe hubby as your teacher and call your local riding course provider to see if one of the instructors takes on private students. Trust your gut instinct on all of this Michelle. Set the parameters, guidelines and boundaries of what YOU need to make your dream come true. – Mama Tuesday, August 26 For Michele whose learning curve is proving a bit frustrating all around: I would like to respond to Michele’s e-mail regarding her 883 Hugger and her first ride on it. I also have an 883 Hugger and it was the first and only bike I rode after taking the safety course. My experience started out similar to Michelle’s but I have had an awesome outcome. My husband also became very frustrated with me the first few times we went for practice rides over to the church parking lot. Well, I was going to show him, there was no way I was going to give up! I couldn’t quite get the thing going but after blocking out his negative comments and not giving up I succeeded and now LOVE my Hugger. I started in March 2002 on dry days, practicing in 15-20 minute intervals in the empty church parking lot practicing what I was taught in my safety class. The first two practice sessions I did nothing but start and stall for 20 minutes and then went home. I would not give up and after much practice in that parking lot moved to riding around the block. That took about 4-5 weeks! I gained more confidence with each outing and tried to go a little farther each time. I attended some organized runs by May 2002 and by the beginning of June 2002 I went to Americade in Lake George and completed a 175 mile tour through Vermont. If I can do it so can you!! Don’t give up and block out any negative comments from anyone. Riding has become a passion and I am glad I didn’t give up. – Judy Coyle (note from Mama: thanks for sharing a similar experience with frustration and showing that a "stick with it" attitude goes a long way to achieving one's goals. You're a total inspiration!) Thursday, September 25 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Ed, Dear
VTwin Mama, Although I’ve only been certified for 3 months as a RiderCoach, I’ve worked with the program for over a year, seeing well over 500 students go through the class. I’ve also seen every reason under the sun for people taking the class. People that have gone out and bought $25K bikes and discovered they really don’t know how to ride them or they can’t pass the DMV test on their big bike to get their endorsement so they figure they’ll do it the ‘easy way’. To women whose husbands have gone out and bought their wives a bike (usually WAY to big to start out on) and thought it would be fun if they she learned to ride, even though she really has no desire to do so, but is there to please him. And then those that really have the desire to learn to ride. For whatever reason the students are there, the classes I’ve been involved with has given each student equal and ample opportunity to learn each skill before moving on to the next. The national MSF Safety program wasn’t just thrown together overnight, it was designed and developed through years of research and testing. The program was based on a study done by a Professor at Cal State named Harry Hurt. He studied what causes motorcycle crashes and what could be done to reduce them. Then standards were designed to be met over the course of the class because we ARE issuing passing cards for Motorcycle Endorsements allowing people to ride out on the street. The main reason however is safety. I sometimes think that gets lost in the conversation. The primary reason the class is there is to learn how to ride a motorcycle SAFELY. We are not there to promote motorcycling or even teach you to ride a motorcycle. We are there to coach people on how to ride SAFELY. That’s why it’s called a “motorcycle SAFETY class” not beginning motorcycle riding 101. However the class is taught in such a way that it allows someone that has never ridden before to learn how to ride, as well as correcting some bad riding habits along the way of the already skilled rider. But the focus remains SAFETY. Maximum amount of student allowed on a range at one time is 12. Ratio of students to RiderCoaches 6:1. Two RiderCoaches overlooking 12 people riding around on motorcycles in an enclosed area. If one student is struggling to learn a basic control, should the other 11 students been held back while one RiderCoach gives one on one until that one student gets it? Should the RiderCoaches be patient while this student begins to pose a safety hazard to themselves and the other 11 students because they don’t have good control of their bike and just wait until they crash before counseling them out? Remember, the MSF is there to promote safety, not how to ride. Different people learn at different rates. I’ve seen some students come back 3 and 4 times before they pass. Most times it’s on the second time after some practice at home with the offending issue they struggled with during their first class. As a RiderCoach (and the others I’ve worked with) we encourage, give positive reinforcement, coach corrections gently. Carrots have always worked better than sticks. However, we can’t MAKE a student learn. We can’t MAKE a student put to use the safety practices we teach. We can only facilitate the learning. It is the students responsibility to learn. As RiderCoaches we are also held to very high standards by the MSF, both on the range and off. Again, The primary standard is safety. Even on our own time we are held to these standards by practicing safe riding habits at all times and setting the example. On the range it is the safety of our students that becomes primary. This does not excuse bad behavior or a non-supportive environment presented by a few instructors….and I’ve seen that too. If you feel like you’ve been un-fairly singled out, report it to the people those Instructors work for. A hostile learning environment is not tolerated by the MSF nor the States Motorcycle Safety Programs. Then find and take a class from a different Sponsor or Instructors. Keep at it, practice and know that we really ARE on your side. P.S. I had a student go through the class last year. She passed and practiced and is now a good friend and riding buddy. She told me one time “you pour every ounce of yourself into your students” And I do. I come home emotionally drained because I want my students….ALL of my students to pass because I want them to feel the joy and the freedom of being in the wind as I do. I don’t work a 40 hour work week then give up one night a week and my week-ends for the money. It’s a labor of love. I have even given up my evenings and week-ends after class to privately coach non-passing students before they take the class again… for free. (and yes… 99% of them are women) Having to tell a student they aren’t meeting standard and counseling them out, telling them to come back and try again is the second hardest part of this job. It’s heartbreaking for me. First hardest part is watching a student crash, sometimes having to call 911, KNOWING that it could have been prevented had they been dismissed when it was plain that they just weren’t getting it. – HammerLady at ShinnySideUp Dear
HammerLady, To me this means someone is going to teach me how to ride a motorcycle. While this certainly happens to some degree, as you noted, the emphasis is on the safety, not getting a new rider proficient in actually riding a bike, unless they happen to be a quick study or a natural rider. So, new riders beware when you sign up for a riding course -- make sure you understand what the course is offering and what you can expect. It's worth a few minutes of your time to contact the local course provider and review the intent of the class. That way there are no surprises. I think HammerLady's letter is a great source of knowledge about this issue, so I'm going to post a link to this letter at the top of the Safety Course pages so other new riders can benefit from the wisdom contained in it. Voila! Once again we've achieved the mission of the VTwin Mama site -- to share knowledge to help others. – Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Michele, Let's look at the bigger picture. I'm soooo happy to hear that you are much more relaxed than ever before -- this is an important indicator that you are progressing along. Second, you know yourself best -- and the great accomplishments in skill level that you have already achieved. Nobody can take that away from you! Riders, even experienced ones, are "tested" everyday on their skills just by riding around and handling the extraordinary challenges placed in front of them all the time. You are part of that! So, now it's up to you to assign the true value (beyond being bummed) of what not passing the course means to you, and then to come up with a battle plan to continue your riding education. What did you better (or worse) the second time around in the course according to your instructors? How can you use that knowledge? What means and methods do you think you need to become a more accomplished rider (reading books, reviewing videos on riding, finding a private instructor, more scheduled practice time, etc.)? I think if you sit down and clearly define what your "perfect" learning situation would be, and then go for it, you'll find a way to become the type of rider you want to be. For every "failure" there are important lessons that came out of it that can be used to help shape the next positive go at it. Find and accentuate all the positives (and put the negatives in their proper place) and keep trying. You can do it! – Mama Thursday, October 16 For Michele who is being challenged by the MSF course again: Don't think of yourself as a loser. Think of yourself lucky that you were able to take the course again and find out where your strengths and weaknesses lie. From what I can tell you have your license already, so think of this as a learning curve. If you failed on the figure eight skill, practice your tight turns, if you failed on the entrance ramp skill, practice some curves. Once most people pass the test, they think they are done learning, and never stop to think if they have really mastered these skills or not. If you don't have your license yet because I misunderstood, you're doing great. Some days are better than others. – Terri in Baltimore (note from Mama: Amen to everything you said!) Friday, October 17 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Buy and Learn, When you take the course, you'll get the feel of that 250cc bike's power and be able to better determine what your thoughts are on more power (as compared to being on the 1800cc bike). Just because your feet reach the ground and you can muscle that bike around, doesn't mean you're ready for the big power bikes (meaning practice is still your key and over confidence is not something to rely on!). Trust YOUR gut instinct on this cause hubby can't gauge how you are TRULY feeling. This is important! So, like ANY new rider, one baby step at a time and if you do decide to try a bigger beastie sooner than later, get thee to an empty parking lot somewhere where there are no obstacles to get in your way as you begin to put you and the bike through the beginning paces to ensure you have mastered the basics of smooth starts, stops and basic curves. Then, and only then, begin practice on roads with light, light traffic -- cause no matter who you are, what size you are, how skilled you are -- there are idiots in cars out there who don't give a damn if they don't see you. Hmmmm . . . . . . and then practice some more. Practice for the rest of your life, cause the learning never ends and never should. – Mama Tuesday, October 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Michele, Dear
VTwin Mama, "The primary reason the class is there is to learn how to ride a motorcycle SAFELY. We are not there to promote motorcycling or even teach you to ride a motorcycle. We are there to coach people on how to ride SAFELY. That’s why it’s called a “motorcycle SAFETY class” not beginning motorcycle riding 101. However the class is taught in such a way that it allows someone that has never ridden before to learn how to ride, as well as correcting some bad riding habits along the way of the already skilled rider. But the focus remains SAFETY." Hmmmmmm. That was a bit unsettling for me to hear. I haven't ever really ridden a motorcycle before (the only experience I have is riding my friend's 70cc dirt bike when we were both kids), so I was really hoping that the RidersEdge course would help start me out on a bike. Now that I'm aware that "motorcycling 101" is not the intent of the course, I'm beginning to wonder if I should perhaps buy a bike to practice on before taking the course? I could practice in parking lots but couldn't ride on the street until I passed the course and got my certification for my license. My plan was to get a used Yamaha V-Star 650 after I had my license. Maybe I need to reverse my planning? Thanks. – Steph Moore in New Mexico Dear
Steph, I think the main point to remember is that if you go into the course expecting to have your license in hand "for sure," you could be disappointed. So, how lucky are you feeling? Are you totally nervous and thinking the bike is going to chew you up and spit you out some? Or, are you fairly confident that the little beastie can be tamed with a little effort (and previous knowledge)? Let this be your guide! If finances are not an issue, picking up a little 250cc bike locally and practicing in empty parking lots is a grand idea. Also, check the Yellow Pages and with the local dealers to see if any offer a true "learn to ride" course. Or thinking in reverse, what is the cost of taking the safety course twice (if the first time isn't a charm) -- vs. buying a little putt-putt that you can sell later? – Mama Wednesday, October 22 For Michele who is being challenged by the MSF course again: Just wanted to encourage you to feel good about even taking the class a second time. I also scored fewer points the second time, but there were so many factors involved in that. The point is not so much how I scored on the test but what I got out of the class. I just spent two months preparing for a dance performance, and it occurs to me that with any kind of physical training, having an instructor watch my performance uncovers habits and movements I'm not aware of. I got some good tips from my instructor for things I needed to work on. I was disappointed in my second test performance because I thought I would perform better, but it just made me more determined to improve. You sound determined and I'll bet you'll write in about a confidence-building ride real soon. – Sarah (note from Mama: I'm a thinkin' that Michele is just going to keep getting better too!) Tuesday, October 28 I had never ridden a motorcycle until about a month before I took the class. I did exactly what she is thinking of, which is to buy a 2001 Honda Rebel and learn some basic skills while waiting to take the class. I pretty much just rode up and down through my neighborhood and practiced shifting gears and stopping. When I took the course, I was one of only two people who had never ridden before, but I did just fine! The course was great and the instructors very helpful. Tell Steph to go ahead with her plan; it's a good one.– Li in Florida (note from Mama: it's always great to have input from a seasoned "veteran" -- thanks!) Thursday, November 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
MJ, Wednesday, November 26 Dear
VTwin Mama, On with my question -- both my husband and son are fine with being a passenger on my bike. I've never carried a passenger before, but I am eager to show other woman that they can ride a motorcycle with your hubby ridin' bitch. I am very confident in my riding skills that I can handle this, even though my husband outweighs me by about 50 pounds, and my son is significantly lighter then me. How do you tell a passenger to mount? Do I tell them to have their arms around my waist? When I take a passenger, do I mount first or should they get on first. My son is not able to get on the bike even on the front. Where should the passenger be on the seat? Should they be toward the back or close to me? – Abbi Dear
Abbi, Ok, I exaggerate a bit, but quite frankly, I wanted to give you something that seemed nice and structured, with instructions for both the rider AND the passenger. So check out this page and I think your questions will be answered, with some spare thoughts to boot. Let us know how your first ride "with passenger" went! – Mama |
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