Learning to ride

[storysunfolding]

Ok- I'm riding an 82 Yamaha Xz550, I got it for free and put $200 into it including new wires, battery, hoses, filters, fluids, tires (came with the bike, just not mounted), brakes, plugs, cables. Then I cleaned the carbs and synched them and greased everything that needed grease. I also got rid of lots of rust and in many cases replaced bolts.

Now, I want to take the MSF course, but it's full until it starts again in the spring and the waiting list is gianormous. The plan is to use the excercises in the MSF manaul and practice in a parking lot until I can pass the DMV road test.

Question, I have a parking lot near my house (safest/easiest to get to). It's about 70 feet long and 40 feet wide. Would this be big/safe enough to practice in?

Any and all tips also appreciated.

[Wizzard]

As long as the parking lot is empty and doesn't have traffic flow I would say go for it . Better than on the street .
When my spousette went from her trike to her second 2 wheeler (it had been a while) I took her to a large shopping center that was remodeling when no one was working and she practiced for hours until she was comfortable again .
Kind regards, Wizzard

[WicAndThing]

That parking lot should be fine. Like mentioned before, make sure its empty and has no traffic flow.

Our MSF instructor recommended we take tennis balls and cut them in half and then use them like the mini-cones they use in the course.

Here are couple of exercises we did-
1) Maximum braking- obtain a speed of 15-18 mph and then apply both brakes, the clutch and downshift into 1st. You should not lock either tire up and the front brake lever should be fully compressed when you get stopped.

2) Doing a figure 8 in a 20x40 box

3) 180 degree curve - approach in 2nd gear, slow, then roll on the throttle throughout the curve

4) Place a row of cones about 15' apart and practice weaving between them.

[Wizzard]

1) Maximum braking- obtain a speed of 15-18 mph and then apply both brakes, the clutch and downshift into 1st. You should not lock either tire up and the front brake lever should be fully compressed when you get stopped.

2) Doing a figure 8 in a 20x40 box

3) 180 degree curve - approach in 2nd gear, slow, then roll on the throttle throughout the curve

4) Place a row of cones about 15' apart and practice weaving between them.

These are all excellent suggestions .
Regards, Wizzard

[Henriettaah]

I hope I can find an empty enough space to practice in once I've done my CBT! I'd rather it was in a deserted area though to banish any self-awareness if practicing in front of an audience Not likely really where I am.

Is the MSF the only test/training Americans have to take to get on the road with two wheels?

[storysunfolding]

Nope

It varies from state to state. There are a few courses throughout the U.S. that count as a waiver for the DMV test. However, here in Virginia I've known people who get their learners permit, wait the 30 days then take the DMV test. It costs alot less but there is no tutoring, just a test.

[ZooTech]

Is the MSF the only test/training Americans have to take to get on the road with two wheels?

The MSF course is not a requirement. All I had to do was pass a simple written test to obtain my learner's package, which restricts you to daylight travel, no freeways, no passengers, and you have to wear a helmet. As soon as you think you're ready to pass the on-bike exam, you can take that (it takes about 15 minutes) and, if you pass, you're good to go.

And no, we're not restricted to any certain engine displacement. You can learn on whatever you want, and you can take the test on whatever you want. I took it on my Mean Streak, which is a little long for some of the obstacles they set up, but I passed with plenty to spare.

[9000white]

who can afford to cut up tennis balls??set up some paper cups.

[Henriettaah]

set up some paper cups

...gone, in a puff of wind

[iwannadie]

set up some paper cups

...gone, in a puff of wind

rock in the cup, rocks are free