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View Poll Results: Have you taken the MSF course? | |||
Yes | 329 | 85.90% | |
No | 54 | 14.10% | |
Voters: 383. You may not vote on this poll |
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Thread Tools |
December 4th, 2008, 03:33 PM | #1 |
Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.
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MSF Course... Have You Taken It?
If yes, your feedback.
If no, why not? |
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December 4th, 2008, 04:17 PM | #2 |
The Sexy Filipino
Name: Jordan
Location: Bakersfield, Ca
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250R 2008 (da black one) Posts: 312
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Yes. Took it because I heard the licensing was easier to obtain than through the DMV.
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December 4th, 2008, 04:19 PM | #3 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Sam
Location: Northern Virginia
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250R 2009 and ZX-12R 2000 Posts: A lot.
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Yes, it's an excellent class in Virginia.
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December 4th, 2008, 04:22 PM | #4 |
ninjette.org dude
Name: 1 guess :-)
Location: SF Bay Area
Join Date: Jun 2008 Motorcycle(s): '13 Ninja 300 (white, the fastest color!), '13 R1200RT, '14 CRF250L, '12 TT-R125LE Posts: Too much.
Blog Entries: 7
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Yeppers. Definitely the way to go here in California, if only for the ease in getting a full license compared to the antiquated DMV test. The course itself was reasonably useful as well. By no means are you an accomplished motorcyclist after completing the course, but it's a good start to the learning process.
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Montgomery Street Motorcycle Club / cal24.com / crf250l.org / ninjette.org ninjette.org Terms of Service Shopping for motorcycle parts or equipment? Come here first. The friendliest Ninja 250R/300/400 forum on the internet! (especially Unregistered) |
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December 4th, 2008, 04:26 PM | #5 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Alex
Location: Belfast, ME
Join Date: Jul 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2010 Honda NT-700-V, formerly, Green 2008 Ninja 250R Posts: A lot.
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I took the Motorcycle Course that was offered in New York State back in 1958. I took the test on a 250 NSU. Back then, the test involved doing a series of figure eights without putting a foot down, hand signals (no directional lights back then), a couple of "panic stops", and a road portion requiring right and left turns and a lane change. Back then everybody was riding big bikes. A 250 was considered a scooter. I bought an Ariel Square Four 1000 to be part of the crowd. It was really too much bike for me then--and probably would be now. I have ridden H-D`s but felt they handled like a truck. Looking back, the best handling bikes I have ridden were a Ducati Diana 250, a Bultaco Metralla, and a Benelli 250. I also liked the Jawa 360. The Triumph 500 was also a nice bike. I did get hooked on cafe racers in 1965 and got a Norton 750 Atlas that was equipped with Dunstall components. It was a fine bike that handled well--raised hell with the H-D guys, Had the Norton till 82 when I quit riding and got into sailboats. Bought the Ninja in June 08 and have to say that it is the most refined bike I have ever owned. The bike oozes precision and quality. Kawasaki engineers literally outdid themselves on that bike. I had a BMW R-60 for quite a while--200,000 miles worth, and in all honesty, the Kawa is a .better bike. The price by today`s standards is not too dusty.
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December 4th, 2008, 04:27 PM | #6 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Greg
Location: Goose Creek, SC
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 09 ninja 250R, 00 Yamaha WR400F, 98 Ducati 916 Senna #233, 94 ZZR400 Posts: 42
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Nope. My brother taught me. He was a Master Safety Instructor for the Air Force. My wife did take it though and I think it helped her tremendously.
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"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark 8:36 Last futzed with by Ducati916Senna; December 4th, 2008 at 04:29 PM. Reason: Because |
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December 4th, 2008, 04:28 PM | #7 |
Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.
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so vote in the poll, you last 2 guys.
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December 4th, 2008, 07:00 PM | #8 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Ken
Location: Indio, CA
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): '08 Kawasaki EX250 "Yoshi", '99 Kawasaki Concours "Grace", '06 Concours "Belle", '06 Yamaha YZF600R "Slick" Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 3
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Yes, I took the advanced course a couple of years ago. Even though I've been riding for a long time it was still beneficial. It was great to work through the instructors steps without having to think about other traffic. I only wish that we had our Ninjette at the time, I did it on my Concours instead. That definately made it a challenge to keep it in the box.
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December 5th, 2008, 12:24 AM | #9 |
dirty old man
Name: Chris
Location: Hazel Green, AL
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): Blue '08 Ninja 250 Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 1
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yes
required in the Army, at least here in HI. I thought that it was great, coming from never owning a bike to have the license in a matter of days. Made getting the license a whole lot easier. Today I finally got the last I needed to ride. The US Army Hawaii requires you to have the MSF, license and a eval on your bike, and every bike that you will be riding. My 250 is really sluggish in first and the figure 8 was a pain, till I figured out to ride it in 2nd and then I aced it.
NB |
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December 5th, 2008, 12:41 AM | #10 | |
Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.
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Quote:
Sounds like your bike is a candidate for shimmimg. |
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December 5th, 2008, 06:20 AM | #11 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Yuri
Location: Happey Valley
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08 Ninja 250 Posts: 57
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I took it back when I first started riding. At the time I was still a minor so it was the only way my parents would let me get on a bike. The course is free in PA though so it wasn't really a difficult decision. I found it really helped highlight the differences in riding technique between dirt and street.
I'll probably end up taking it again in the spring since my girlfriend is looking into getting licensed.
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Yoshimura CF Full System, Dynojet Jet Kit, Kleen Air System Removed, Woodcraft Clip-Ons, Sato Rear Sets, Galfer SS Brake Lines, 15/44 Sprocket Combo, Home Made Fender Eliminator |
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December 5th, 2008, 07:27 AM | #12 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Deb
Location: Philly
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): '09 ninja 250 (blue) Posts: 295
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Yep I took it so I could upgrade to a larger scooter. But...........after riding the motorcycles at the MSF course, I realized riding a motorcycle is more fun!! So I passed the course and two months later I bought my '09 ninja.
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December 5th, 2008, 07:58 AM | #13 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Ryan
Location: Carlisle, PA
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 WR250R, 2006 Ural Raven (Sold), 2009 Versys Green (Sold), 2008 Ninja 250R Green (Sold) Posts: A lot.
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I also took it. It is free in PA, and if you pass the test at the end you get your license. I had never been on a motorcycle before the class, so I didn't want to go buy a bike before I knew if I would like it. Also not learning on your brand new bike makes things a little easier on the nerves.
I feel it really helped me with the basics, and because I had no experience at all that is what I needed. Obviously after the class there is still much to learn about actually riding on the road. I took the first class of the year, and got my bike 2 weeks later. I trucked it home and rode around a parking lot for a while familiarizing myself with the bike before I even thought about going on public roads. So far so good (Couldn't find a :knock on wood: smiley so that will have to do) |
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December 5th, 2008, 10:13 AM | #14 | |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Ken
Location: Indio, CA
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): '08 Kawasaki EX250 "Yoshi", '99 Kawasaki Concours "Grace", '06 Concours "Belle", '06 Yamaha YZF600R "Slick" Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 3
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Quote:
I think it's a DoD requirement these days. I work at Los Angeles AFB where it's required, so they provide(d) the course for free. Which makes their whole process for military and civil servants pretty easy. Their only grey area is whether, or how to, enforce that requirement with contractors. It used to be that if there was an empty slot available in a class then a contractor could take it. At least that's what they were doing at this base, I'm not sure what they're doing now. Occasionally there's a survey on base to see if all of the motorcycle riders have had safety training, I can say "Yes" and show them my card if needs be. |
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December 5th, 2008, 02:11 PM | #15 |
Stealth like Ninja, Lol
Name: Jessica
Location: East Tn (round Knoxville)
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): Red 2008 250 Posts: 88
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Well worth it.
I loved it. It improved my confidence and definitely my ability. Anyone who thinks they won't benefit is mistaken.
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December 5th, 2008, 03:02 PM | #16 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Andy
Location: Sheboygan, WI
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 1988 Honda Hawk NT650, 1989 Honda Hawk NT650, 1997 GSXR750 Track Bike Posts: 890
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When I took it I think it was about $170 for the weekend. Was the best way for me to get my license so it was a no-brainer.
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December 5th, 2008, 03:27 PM | #17 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Alex
Location: Belfast, ME
Join Date: Jul 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2010 Honda NT-700-V, formerly, Green 2008 Ninja 250R Posts: A lot.
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Back in 1958 there was no such thing as an MSF Course. NY DMV did have a test one had to pass in order to get an MC endorsement on their license. My licence was "Motorcycle Only" I did not get an automobile license till 1965.
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December 5th, 2008, 03:37 PM | #18 | |
Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.
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Quote:
A few months ago, I took the ERC MSF course at the local Navy base. Although a lot of what was taught were things I had learned throughout the years through experience, I did learn a thing or two about some basics I had overlooked in all my years of riding. Point of my post is to say, you are never to old to consider taking the MSF course. I'm glad I did after all these years. It may end up saving my life one day. |
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December 5th, 2008, 04:25 PM | #19 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: Alex
Location: Belfast, ME
Join Date: Jul 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2010 Honda NT-700-V, formerly, Green 2008 Ninja 250R Posts: A lot.
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I think I`ll sign up fot the course this Spring. It is given a quarter mile from our home.
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December 5th, 2008, 04:33 PM | #20 |
Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.
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With your time in the saddle, see if they will let you take the ERC (Experienced Rider Course)... same as the basic course with a bit more detail thrown in.
Good luck... I feel you will find this time well spent. |
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December 5th, 2008, 04:44 PM | #21 |
weekend rider
Name: JC
Location: Central IL
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): '05 Ninja 250 Posts: 87
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Worth every penny ....
Um, well, here in Central IL it's free. So it's worth quite a bit more than every penny! I did donate to the MSF though. Really good to advocate safety. Heck they should do it for cages too, but driving a car is so common, people think they can just hop on a bike and transition without thinking. This course really makes you think. I'm thinking of taking it again next year or the year after (I did only slightly better than average).
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December 5th, 2008, 06:43 PM | #22 |
Da Rider
Name: Chris
Location: SoCal
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250 Posts: 20
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I work on a Marine Corps Base and to ride a bike the MSF course is required. I have taken the ERC (Experienced Rider Course) two times now. Once a hundred years ago when i was a Marine and just recently as a general refresher to keep from getting into bad habits.
I enjoyed the course. I found it to be well run and full of info.
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~Black 2008 Ninja 250~ Keep The Dirty Side Down! |
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December 5th, 2008, 07:05 PM | #23 |
Professional Newb
Name: Hunter
Location: Richmond, VA
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08' Lime Ninja 250r :) Posts: 34
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YEPPERS!!!
The class was fun, and the instructor was a mechanic from Toyota who I actually job shadowed last year in auto tech. But yeah i loved the class even though it was chilly, but didnt rain! and i also got the highest scores on my test, even having to lead the pack and go first on each one |
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December 5th, 2008, 11:24 PM | #24 |
ninjette.org certified postwhore
Name: zartan
Location: spam la
Join Date: Oct 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08 250 R Posts: A lot.
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Yes a million years ago. 1992 so a refresher would be good. I still remember a lot from that class and it also helped me be a better car driver also. Taught me good habits about cornering and looking ahead and past obstacles. Not to fixate.. etc..
Helps in insurance costs and back then you did not automatically get your endorsement. NowI think it counts here in WA for the driving part. we shoud sign up for the ERC. I know it would be good for me.
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"Don't let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision" Colin Powell |
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December 6th, 2008, 03:03 PM | #25 | |
IC2(SW)
Name: Kerry
Location: Pensacola
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): . Posts: A lot.
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Quote:
On the MSF course, I never took it. Iam old, why bother now...... I did get it for my wife, really good thing for a newbie now days. Also it got her "motorcycle also" on her license without taking any test at DMV. Florida now has done away with tests, you have to take the MSF to get your endorsment. |
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December 6th, 2008, 10:15 PM | #26 |
\m/
Name: Mesh
Location: Irvine, CA
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138
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Yuh - took it and found it very confidence inspiring. Can't imagine riding without having taken the class.
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December 6th, 2008, 11:46 PM | #27 |
Professional Newb
Name: Hunter
Location: Richmond, VA
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08' Lime Ninja 250r :) Posts: 34
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2 second rule anyone?!?!
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December 9th, 2008, 08:39 AM | #28 |
WORKDADDY
Name: Dave
Location: slc utah
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 ninja 2fitty Posts: 112
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Well Summer of '02 my lil brother and I brought home each a CBR 600.. Mom and Dad freaked out and said if you own those things you will take the ryders course and we will pay for it... Okay we say. Both my brother and i have ridin for years, but the course was a blast. Great things they have in the learning process. Plus like others have said it makes it easier for the DMV part (waiver for drive test). Recommend it for all People!!!
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December 10th, 2008, 01:13 AM | #29 |
ninjette.org newbie
Name: Corey
Location: Central California
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R Posts: 2
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I took it 2 weeks ago. One of my instructors ran up to me as I was walking out the gate after the test and informed me that I achieved a perfect score on the test, which he told me was pretty rare for the classes he taught, and that I should be happy about that
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December 10th, 2008, 07:02 AM | #30 |
ninjette.org newbie
Name: Arturo
Location: Miami, FL
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08 Ninja 250R (The fast color) Posts: 9
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Yes. It is a requirement to get a motorcycle endoresement in Florida, but I would have taken it anyway. Having never ridden a motorcycle before I had an easy time with most of the exercises except those evil u-turns I touched the line everytime during the learning and warm-up sessions, but somehow I aced them during the test. Talk about clutch
I came away with a lot of confidence after taking the course. I would recommend it to anyone, ESPECIALLY to those who have never ridden before. |
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December 10th, 2008, 12:13 PM | #31 |
ninjette.org guru
Name: Joel
Location: Orlando, FL
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08 Ninja 250 Posts: 256
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Yes, took it here in Florida. The course was pretty good, although some of the people that passed, I...really don't know how they did. I guess you had to drop the bike to fail Anyway, I still recomend that everyone take some type of formal motorcycle instruction, especially if you are a first timer.
I took a race school in October (Ed Bargy), now that was $ well spent. Planning on spending more $ on seat time. |
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December 12th, 2008, 10:07 AM | #32 |
So slow I'm first!
Name: Sunny
Location: San Jose, CA
Join Date: Oct 2008 Motorcycle(s): 06 Kawasaki Ninja EX250 Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 10
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I took it! It helped me get my license and lowered my insurance, at the time.
I also have a dvd - Ride Like a Pro - that helped out a lot too!
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Learn from the mistakes of others, you cannot make them all yourself. Save yourself the trouble and Learn. |
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December 14th, 2008, 01:07 PM | #33 |
lolwut
Name: Alex
Location: socal
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Posts: 196
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I just passed it! Woohoo!!
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08 Blue Ninja 250R |
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December 14th, 2008, 01:09 PM | #34 |
Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.
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December 14th, 2008, 01:25 PM | #35 |
Some weird Canuck!
Name: Greg
Location: Ontario - Canada
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): '92 CBR250RR "Babyblade", 2008 Ninja 250R, 2001 CBR600F4i Posts: 209
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Took the Canadian Gearing Up course (our version of MSF) It was a great way to spend a weekend. The only thing is: I rode to the school everyday on my CBR600F2. I rode a Yamaha DT125 i think it was. Just a tiny little dirt bike. By the end of the day I was so used to throwing the little 125 around that when I jumped on the CBR600, I almost dropped it in the parking lot because of how heavy it was.
Overall, I would recommend these types of courses to everyone. It REALLY helped my fiance out before she started riding the Ninja 250R. |
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December 14th, 2008, 01:57 PM | #36 |
lolwut
Name: Alex
Location: socal
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Posts: 196
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Thank you kind sir!
It was pretty fun. They got to use their only older gen ninja 250! Everyone else got 125cc dirtbikes or honda rebels. I learned some tips and handy tricks, specifically about really looking where you want to go. That works so well. The only tricky bits I still need to work on are low speed tight u-turns. Overall, I did pretty well.
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08 Blue Ninja 250R |
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December 14th, 2008, 02:08 PM | #37 | |
Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.
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Quote:
practice, son... practice. We had a guy in a full dress Harley in our class and he had no problems in the box... thing of beauty when someone can handle such a beast, so well... and it was a borrowed bike from his friend! |
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December 14th, 2008, 02:19 PM | #38 | |
IC2(SW)
Name: Kerry
Location: Pensacola
Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): . Posts: A lot.
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Quote:
I snuck over & took some pics & video of her. You know to remember the day, I was so happy seeing her turn her head |
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December 14th, 2008, 07:12 PM | #39 | |
lolwut
Name: Alex
Location: socal
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Posts: 196
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Quote:
I will be sure to get plenty of practice in during my winter break from school! Thanks! I was surprised by how effective it really is.
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08 Blue Ninja 250R |
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December 14th, 2008, 10:43 PM | #40 |
Über n00b
Name: Bob
Location: Alberta, Canada
Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): Triumph TT600, Honda NS50F, Kawasaki ZZR-250 (sold) Posts: 225
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We don't actually have the MSF courses up here.
But I did take a course that's essentially exactly the same thing. Had a decent amount of previous experience on dirt bikes and still found it very helpful. |
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