Motorcycle Safety School????

[Kneepuff]

Hi All!

I have been looking into Motorcycle Safety School so that I can learn to ride the big bikes with y'all. The offices are closed this weekend (holiday), but I found out (from their web site) that they are booking 2 months out! Wow! That is a loooonnnggg time! The web site says that there is one in Yuba City and one at Sierra College. But I think there are others nearby. Anyone have any info on that?

I am getting excited and can hardly wait. SB, I read your post about how great your year has been and how you asked yourself why you waited so long. I could feel the energy! and I am ready to learn, too!

Any tips and advice from all of you experienced riders will be greatly appreciated.

[trogdor]

I took the MSF class at this place off bradshaw. Three days total. Really worth it.

But yeah. I had to book months in advance.

When they started the class, people introduced themselves and said why they were there. Some, like me, wanted to take the class before getting a bike. But I was amazed at how many people were there because 'they had been riding for a while now and thought it was time they got a license.'

[fishbulb]

Looks like i could do with one of them :D :D

[StuntBunny]

Hey KP

Found the address & number of the place I took the MSF class - Winona Center 3222 Winona Way North Highlands, CA 95660. The telephone number is 286-3845. The class is $198 and are held on both weekends & weekdays. You can check out the website at: www.grantadulted.org

Let us know when you book your class!!!

SB

[reditaliana]

i rented a bike (from a rinky dink motorcycle shop in sf - no license req'd, no questions asked, just show us the cash baby style) and figured out how to work the clutch and shift in a parking lot. (driving a stick shift car and reading up on motorcycle basic operations helps)

then, after i got bored with the parking lot, i took it out on the road, being sure to avoid railroad tracks, manhole covers, rain and traffic, and saw what happened. then i picked up a beater - something with lots of dents already, 600 cc min, and found a good rider to follow and copycat.

since you already have the desire, the willpower and the good riders to follow, i suggest you pick up a beater (we won't make fun of you, i swear!) and come for a ride. there are plenty of people here, myself definitely included, who will be more than willing to give you real world experience.

i'm not knockin' the class, but i definitely think some things are better left unpostponed.

one thought though, if you're going to take the DMV test before you start riding on the road (not recommended) rent a vespa. that thing SUCKS! on a big bike.

[STUFFER]

Hi All!

I could feel the energy! and I am ready to learn, too!

Any tips and advice from all of you experienced riders will be greatly appreciated.



Hi KP... If you're thinking about it, you're ready! Don't put off something like this as the schools book up full sometimes and the wait gets longer...at least that's what we see here in the So. Bay Area.

Everyone I've talked to has nothing but good to say about these classes. The nice benefit from taking this course is...you get the use of a bike that is the right size and doesn't have expensive plastics on it!

Most bikes, at least the sportbikes we ride are difficult to negotiate the riding portion of the DMV Test.

The DMV here in Los Gatos has such a confined area for taking the riding portion that if you're on a typical sportbike, you (almost) cannot stay within the lines when performing a figure 8 or making a 360 degree circle. We tried this course after my son had been riding at the track with me for some time. Both he & I tried negotiating the course on our GSXR600(w/o plastics) and couldn't complete a 360 without going outside the lines or putting our foot down.

Now I get a chance to watch riders at the MSF course every other weekend near our home in a high school's parking lot. It's wide open and definately not as difficult a course when compared to the DMV's in Los Gatos.

My daughter will be taking the MSF course soon, as she rec'd a warning for riding her new CRF50 on the street. The officer told her that she could get two tickets, one for operating a dirt bike on the street and the other is for no MC license.

Go do it, it's the next appropriate step towards getting a bike and getting out there with us!

Next thing you know, you'll be doing trackdays and asking for help or advice on how to get your knee down!

Hopefully this helps! Just let us know if you have any questions, we're happy to help you get addicted like us!!! :D

[Kneepuff]

Thanks for the feedback and input everyone. I am definitely going to take the class! RC - you are right! I am ready to get started. SB - thanks for the contact info. RI - thanks for you advice and enthusiam! Everyone - thanks for your support. I'll keep you posted as I boldly go where no man - I mean - no Kneepuff has gone before.
As I always say : "GO BIG OR GO HOME!"

[Kneepuff]

Well, guys and gals, I actually signed up for the MSF school!!!! The really good news is that I don't have to wait too long. I got into a class for the weekend of December 16th! Woohoooo!!!!!! A little Christmas present to myself.

So now, all that's left is to go there and DO IT! If I like it (yeah, I know - who wouldn't like riding?) then I will start thinking about getting a starter bike.
I'm so excited! :p :p

[Red Baron]

Well, guys and gals, I actually signed up for the MSF school!!!!

So now, all that's left is to go there and DO IT! If I like it (yeah, I know - who wouldn't like riding?) then I will start thinking about getting a starter bike.
I'm so excited! :p KP,

WHOA! Way to go - this will be a blast for you! Remember, take everything at a reasonable pace, and don't rush. You will benefit longer term.

Besides, you already have the best starter bike...a sweet RED CORSAMINI!!! Hey, I wonder if they would let you take your riding test on that little bad boy?:p

Keep us posted on your progress.:D

RB http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/755.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZSXXXXXXXXUS)

[STUFFER]

Well, guys and gals, I actually signed up for the MSF school!!!! The really good news is that I don't have to wait too long. I got into a class for the weekend of December 16th! Woohoooo!!!!!! A little Christmas present to myself.

So now, all that's left is to go there and DO IT! If I like it (yeah, I know - who wouldn't like riding?) then I will start thinking about getting a starter bike.
I'm so excited! :p :p


Way to go Kneepuff!! This is great news! Good luck!! :)

[Kneepuff]

Thanks RC! Won't be long now and I am getting excited!

[STUFFER]

Hey KneePuff

Given any thought to what type of bike you'll get after you complete the MSF class?

[Kneepuff]

I really don't know at this point. I'll have to do my homework and ask alot of questions.

Hope you are resting and healing up nicely!

[STUFFER]

Hi Kneepuff

Yes, I'm taking it easy today, but my thoughts are out there with the other Kneeriders, who are rding in the Winters area. In fact I've been watching the 60-90 minutes of video from last Friday's ride! Tooo much fun! Can't wait to have you join us!!

In regards to a new bike, many people recommend the Suzuki SV650 and I agree with them. Depending on your height, this is almost the perfect beginner bike. No fairings to worry about and very easy to ride. Plus easy to sell when you're ready to move up!

[Kneepuff]

Thanks RC,

That is the kind of input I am looking for since I wouldn't really know where to start. That gives me a place to begin my research. I am all of 5'2 1/2", by the way.

I hope you can make it up next Saturday to SB's and Hammer's place. It should be lots of fun. Now I will really need to get busy on planning our CorsaMiKnee track day in January.

[STUFFER]

Hi KneePuff

Yep...now that you've told me your height, this may become a real important factor in your choice of bikes. You'll just have to go do some window shopping and the local dealers and see what fits and then make a choice from there.

BTW: I have a very good friend that is your height. She loves her new CBR600 Honda, but she needed to have the seat padding shaved down in order to touch the ground easily. She did the same on her R6 that she just sold. So, this is an option for you as well.

[Kneepuff]

Well, friends. The time has almost arrived. Tomorrow evening at this time, I will be in class at Motorcycle School! Yahoooooo!!!!! I am so excited to be starting something new. And in the words of reditaliana "I can't wait to know what you guys are talking about!" So, wish me luck! I'll keep you posted.

[STUFFER]

Well, friends. The time has almost arrived. Tomorrow evening at this time, I will be in class at Motorcycle School! Yahoooooo!!!!! I am so excited to be starting something new. And in the words of reditaliana "I can't wait to know what you guys are talking about!" So, wish me luck! I'll keep you posted.

I'm sure that most everyone that knows you is as excited about this big event as you are! This is such a big step to what will be one of many that you'll be taking over the next few years! Passing the course is just a stepping stone to a whole new way of experiencing life!

With your background, your current level of knowledge, your experience with bikes to date....you should ace this course! :)

And trust me...you're in with the right group, as they/we will help you to... "know what we've been talking about!" So much of what we do when we ride has to be experienced first to learn it properly. Things that may seem difficult at first will soon become second nature. You'll see! ....and we're here to help you! So don't ever forget that!
;)

[StuntBunny]

Hey KP,

Good luck on the MSF class...I'll be thinkin' about you tomorrow! You'll do GREAT! :D :D :D

SB

[Red Baron]

KP,

We are all excited for you and will be thinking of you at the MSF class. I remember doing their advanced class, and the camaraderie that quickly develops in that environment aids in the learning process. Who knows, you may make friends you will chat with after the class ends.:)

Please come STRAIGHT HOME after the class tonight and give us ALL an update on your initial impressions and experiences - we'll all be waiting.

Good luck!;)

PS - Don't forget to ask the instructor if you get a free Aprilia RS250 upon completing the class successfully...:p

RB http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/755.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZSYYYYYYYYUS)

[Kneepuff]

Thanks RB, SB, and RC,

Thanks for the good wishes. I'll keep you posted. Hopefully I will be a model student and pass with flying colors! :p

[Kneepuff]

Well, I made it through the first day of school with no tears, I made new friends and didn't have to sit alone. I wasn't even late - but you should have seen the look on the intructor's face when I rolled up on the little red KP Corsamini! :p :p

There were six - count 'em SIX chicks in the class!!! Scoring! There were 24 people in all. How many students were men? (Just a little 3rd grade word problem, there.) Well, the group was a mixture of sport bike enthusiasts, cruiser bikers, a few harley types and several newbies, I mean kneebies, like myself. I think everyone had more riding experience than me - but none of them have the advantage of a supportive group like the kneeriders. I am scoping out the best of the group and will invite them to check out the site.

Tonight's class was all book learning - the basics, you know - parts of the bike, safety gear, starting the bike, turns, shifting, and turning off the bike, of course. Saturday and Sunday will be riding "on the range". I can't wait for that! Sounds like there will be plenty of help for those of us who are beginners. So, I sure am looking forward to getting on the bike!

Thanks for all of your support! I'll keep you posted!

KP

[1000RR]

Good for you K.P., I'm sure you will some them how it's done. I wish I was there to see the looks on their faces when you rolled up on the Mini. :D

[StuntBunny]

Way to go KP! I KNEW you'd do fine!

How about a contingent of kneeriders show up to the range on Saturday to cheer you on??!! ;) ;)

[Kneepuff]

I'm way too nervous to have anyone show up and cheer me on just yet. Knowing that you guys are thinking of me is plenty enough. :p Besides, it is the last weekend before Christmas and I know everyone is really busy with Santa stuff......

[StuntBunny]

Not necessarily ;)

[STUFFER]

SB, aren't you coming to ride with us tomorrow??? Huh?? :eek:

[Kneepuff]

Okay, so maybe I should wait until I've had a few more dates to declare my feelings...nahhhh!

I got on and rode a bike for the first time today!!!! What a rush! :D Even if we were only going 'round in ovals and starting and stopping and swerving around cones. I can feel the thrill! At least I could until my fingers went numb from the cold. All in all, I had a great day and I feel absolutely wonderful! I passed the written test today (50 multiple choice questions of which I missed one only because I forgot to answer it at all - doh!). Tomorrow is the driving test. That has me a little nervous. But, I am hoping for the best!!!! I'll fill you in tomorrow.....

:D :D

[1000RR]

Good luck on the riding test Queeny, I'm sure you'll do fine

[Red Baron]

KP,

OK - just for the record...DO NOT DO ANY KNEERIDING TOMORROW!:D

While this group may applaud you (and you class mates too for that matter), those MSF instructors are bada$$es - so mind your KP's and Q's!;)

Glad to hear you had such a great day on the range - we are all anxiously awaiting the outcome of tomorrow's class - please post up as soon as you finish. We're pulling for you!

RB http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/755.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZSzeb045)

[Kneepuff]

Yep. That's right. If you could see me right now you would see me doing the "happy dance". It looks a little like that cat in the "kittycatdance" video. Except I've got my red helmet on.....and yes that is a BIG smile that I am wearing underneath the face shield. :D :D

This weekend has been a HUGE personal growth experience for me. After teaching children for 19 years I was reminded of what they must feel like when they encounter new concepts, new curriculum, new teachers, and unknown expectations. It was my first time on a motorcycle (with the exception of riding as a passenger a few times about 18 years ago). So everything, from mounting and starting the bike, to turning, rolling on the throttle, stopping, pressing, leaning, swerving, shifting gears, etc...was new territory to me. I will try to never forget the feelings that I had throughout this weekend so that I can take them back into my own classroom and apply them in my teaching.

The performance test was not exactly easy. :eek: John, one of the instructors tried to get us to think of it as a "celebration of our knowledge" - yeah, right! I couldn't think of it like that until I completed the first exercise which was the figure 8 (two U turns in a box). As I watched the four riders in front of me maneuver through the box my heart was thumping and my eyes were thisclose to tearing up. But then I just reminded myself of something that a very close personal friend (you know who you are ;) )told me last night and then I was able to calm down and go for it. Total concentration and a bit of feathering the clutch and tada! I did it! Then came the emergency stop and go exercise followed by the cornering test. All of which went well.

Soon the students were all rounded up again and the instructors announced that we ALL passed!!! Did you hear the loud, collective sigh of relief right about 12:00? That was us!!!

As I reflect about my experience at MSF school I promise to never forget the feelings that I experienced this weekend so that I can always remember what it is like to be new to something and desperately want to learn it. I haven't been that nervous in a very long time. But I also haven't felt that sense of accomplishment in a while. If I am lucky I get that feeling a couple of times a year. (Skiing for the first time last February. Completing the bike ride around Lake Tahoe last June. And passing the MSF school.) If you understand what I mean by all this, then you know what that feeling is, don't you?

Now that I made it through the class and I have a better (but not complete) understanding of what my friends on this site are always talking about, I am looking forward to getting my own bike and gaining riding experience. Believe me, I understand that I am light years behind all of you and yet I feel more connected to you now that I have done this. I may not be out there kneeriding with you guys anytime soon, but I WILL be around.

Thanks to those of you -in particular, RB, SB, RC, 1000RR, RI - who have given me kind words, words of advice, points to ponder, many chuckles, and the courage to try something new. You guys all ROCK!!!!!!

[STUFFER]

Way to go Kneepuff!!! :) :) :) Can you see my smile from here??

"We" all knew "you" could do it all along!

Now comes the tough, but fun part...bike & gear selection.

[Red Baron]

KP,

WOW! YOU DID IT!!! CONGRATULATIONS!:)

We all knew you could do it - and I know the entire gang will be as excited for you as RC and I are... That is outstanding! I've known licensed riders who have NOT passed the MSF the first time through. Since yesterday was your FIRST time ever riding a motorcycle - passing the MSF today was an incredible accomplishment!

THIS IS AWESOME! You are the first member of Kneeriders.com to become a licensed rider and pass the MSF class - on the first time - without having ever ridden a motorcycle before. You will be a great example for the rest of the group. If anyone ever has questions about the MSF - or what it takes to ACE the program the FIRST time - we'll send them YOUR way!

YOU KICKED A$$ KP - RIGHT ON!!!

RB http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/755.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZSXXXXXXXXUS)

[reditaliana]

AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Welcome to the wonderful, thrilling, inspiring, stress releasing, adventurous, soul searching, thrilling world of motorcycling honey!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You did it! You put your mind to a goal, you took the steps to make it happen and you did it! What would the world be like if everyone did that with their dreams. You're awesome!

We can't wait to have you out there with us!

Awesome! We knew you could do it!

[STUFFER]

KP,

THIS IS AWESOME! You are the first member of Kneeriders.com to become a licensed rider and pass the MSF class - on the first time - without having ever ridden a motorcycle before. You will be a great example for the rest of the group. If anyone ever has questions about the MSF - or what it takes to ACE the program the FIRST time - we'll send them YOUR way!

KP, I think what RB is "trying" to say is..you may be "one of the few" kneeriders that has passed the MSF and have a license!!

It's my guess, this is why he said you're such a great example to us and why you'll probably have other kneeriders hitting on you asking for help on taking the MSFcourse!!! I wonder....is RB hiding anything from us in those comments? Come to think of it, has anyone ever seen his MC License?? Hmmmm? :rolleyes:

[1000RR]

Congrats K.P.!! You rock girlie. As a reward for your efforts,.. I'll let ya ride one of R.B.'s bikes :D

[StuntBunny]

:) Congratultions KP!!! :)

Now get right down to the DMV and take that written test and get the M1 designation on your license...it's really cool to show it to your friends who don't believe you when you say you actually have a motorcycle license :D !

SB