subject: Motorcycle Endorsement – Isn't It Time You Get It? [print this page] Motorcycle Endorsement Isn't It Time You Get It?
Being that springtime is just around the corner, you may be getting that itch again. No, not the one you may be thinking of, more like the one to get out and ride on a motorcycle with the wind blowing in your face and the feel of an 1100cc engine under you. That is what I was feeling last springtime when I would drive past everyone sitting on a bike either by themselves or with their honey on the back seat hanging on. I have always wanted to ride a motorcycle on some back roads on one of those great days with lots of sun and the temps not too hot. The only sticking point for me was the fact that I have never been taught how to ride or honestly never had the opportunity to learn. At least that is what I thought until my father in-law said he was getting his endorsement. The seed was planted and planted with a great urgency.
If you are similar to me, I would highly recommend taking the time and spending the money to take the course that is most likely offered at the local high school or college. It is called the Motorcycle Safety Foundations course. I say take the time as if it is offered on a weekend near you it truly is the entire weekend. My course started Friday evening, then started up again on Saturday morning until 6:00pm. Then again Sunday morning until 6:00pm or basically after you complete the written test. If you pass the written and riding test you are able to take all the paperwork to the DMV and just pay for your endorsement. The course will test you the same way the DMV does on both the written and riding tests.
If you think you are some hot shot that already knows how to ride and don't feel that you need the course, STOP and RETHINK! This course will show you better ways to turn, ride over hazards in the road and give general overall tips that will make your riding more enjoyable and safer. In our class, we had a married couple taking the course. The gentleman had been driving for 10+ years while his wife was just getting her endorsement. She actually did better on the riding test than he did though he did rather well. I believe it was due to the time and effort that the instructors showed everyone. Those that wanted to learn did. Those that knew everything and didn't listen didn't.
I recently rented a bike in San Diego on a vacation my wife and I took. I remember taking my time to do more inspecting than most people do and found some issues that needed attention. I also took the time to learn the feel of my bike before I took it out on the major roads with traffic. These were just a few of the tips that we learned in class. I also felt very comfortable with my wife on the back as they went over a few tips and tricks during the class that I remembered.
I believe your friend or relative can teach you how to ride a motorcycle, but I also believe that it would not be nearly as detailed and complete as the MSF course instructors can show you. They are in business to train riders how to be safe. To find a course, search on the web for "Motorcycle Safety Foundation course". You will be able to search on the state in which you live for the nearest course. I hope to see you on the road!
