A Guide to Starting Motorcycling: From Courses to Gear

When I got bitten by the motorcycle bug in January 2006, I had no idea where to start. I knew I needed a motorcycle and gear, but how would I learn to ride? Thankfully, I had a friend in another state that was kind enough to set me on the right track. Thanks to his help, not only am I a licensed rider, I've now become an instructor for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. I'll share what I learned, and hopefully others can benefit from the information.

The first thing any new rider needs to do is sign up for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's Basic Rider Course. You can find a course in your area by visiting www.msf-usa.org. Your state's ABATE group may sponsor these courses, so make sure to check them out, as well. This course is also useful for veteran riders, or those who took a break from riding for any amount of time. You will learn valuable riding skills and accident avoidance techniques in the course. And, in some states, your course completion card qualifies you to get your M' endorsement on your license, eliminating the need to take the riding portion of the qualification test. You may even make some new riding friends in your MSF course I met several people that I still ride with today.

You'll also need to stop by your local driver's license facility, and get a Motorcycle Learner's Permit. This enables you to ride your bike for practice on the streets. If you decide to practice riding before you take your MSF course, make sure you have a coach, or someone that can ride along next to you, or observe your practice in parking lots. The best place for new riders to practice is a large, open, empty parking lot, where you can practice stopping, shifting gears, and turning.

There may be a waiting list for your MSF course, so while you wait, head down to your local library, and check out all the books that they have available on motorcycling. Read the books, take notes if you need to, and learn the information. This will be a huge help to you in the MSF course, and once you hit the streets on your new ride.

You'll also want to head to your local motorcycle dealership, or other store that offers gear for riders. Even if you choose to ride without a helmet once you are street-legal, you'll need a well-fitting, quality helmet for the MSF course. Also consider chaps, gloves, a vest or jacket, and good, sturdy boots for riding.

Obviously, you'll need a motorcycle, if you don't already have one. Don't pick the first bike you see. Shop around, look at different brands and models, compare prices and specs, and choose the right bike for you. And make sure the bike you choose fits your body. Also, don't forget to get an insurance policy on your motorcycle. This is something that some new riders forget. However, just like a car, motorcycles need insurance too.

When it's time for your MSF course, don't be nervous. Most courses will have the classroom portion of the training, and the written test on the first evening mine started on a Friday evening. Then, the rest of the days will be filled with riding practice mine was all day on Saturday and Sunday. The final day, you'll have your riding test, and if you pass, you'll graduate!

After your MSF course, if you don't feel ready to hit the streets, go back to the parking lot I mentioned earlier, and practice, practice, practice. It's helpful to bring a coach or friend to help you. They can critique your riding, and help you if you need assistance.
Once you've completed the MSF course, you can head back to your Driver's License Facility, and get that wonderful "M" endorsement on your driver's license. You are now street legal! Just remember, ride safe, and have fun!