MSF Course... Have You Taken It? - Page 6

k1prototype · November 6th, 2009, 06:15 AM

I took mine passed and then never bought a bike. About 2 years later I finally purchased my bike. I ended up looking up a lot of the techniques again via youtube in order to re-familiarize myself with what I learned.

marsha · November 6th, 2009, 06:26 AM

Yes, I took it here in FL this August. I'd never driven a motorcycle before & thought this would be the best way to learn. I was very nervous, but fortunately the instructors were FANTASTIC and my fears quickly disappeared. It was money well spent, not to mention it's required now in FL in order to get your motorcycle endorsement.

Justanothermp5 · November 6th, 2009, 06:51 AM

i took it cuz my parents made me (only 18) lol but it turns out it was actually really easy and pretty fun
i got the highest grade in the riding section in my class

CZroe · November 6th, 2009, 07:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by k1prototype

I took mine passed and then never bought a bike. About 2 years later I finally purchased my bike. I ended up looking up a lot of the techniques again via youtube in order to re-familiarize myself with what I learned.

I think that was Noche Caliente's story too.

shellneil · November 6th, 2009, 10:05 AM

d

eff was the best thing i did, it tough me first off how to even ride a bike, i couldnt even get it into 1st gear when i got there, taught me many safety things as well, things that have saved my a$$ numerous.....i'm taking the advanced next month.........oh yeah gave me my license also!!

jcgirl · November 6th, 2009, 10:27 AM

I took the Learn to Ride course here on the island. It's pricey, running just over $500. Totally worth it though. 2 evenings in a classroom going over all the theory and two full days on the bikes. I learned so much!!! Would recommend it to anyone else like me who had never tried to ride a bike before.

danknation · November 6th, 2009, 11:42 AM

I didn't bother with it, mainly because I did not have an extra $190 to spend. One of my friends just took it a few weekends ago and all the stuff he told me he learned seemed like common sense. I know a lot of you say it will reduce my chances of going down but I just don't plain belive it.

If you have never ridden anything before then take it, if you know how to work a clutch and understand vehicles then don't waste the money. I had a bit of dirt experience and enough time as a motorhead to get myself started. As a matter of fact, I was able to find videos on youtube illustrating all of their practice techniques and just replicated them myself in an empty parking lot, for $200 cheaper then what they wanted.

Allen · November 6th, 2009, 06:48 PM

Took the MSF about 14 months ago after not riding for about 10 years. I had about 20 years previous experience. Glad I did. It teaches more than what you learn. It teaches you TO LEARN. I've read several books also to continue my learning. You have to be careful about new bike riding methodology. As my instructor said "Practice does not make perfect,,,,,,,,,,,Perfect Practice makes Perfect" Learn to practice the Perfect methodology.

diablo250 · November 6th, 2009, 07:22 PM

I originally planned to take the MSF course, and I still will take an advanced rider/sportbike course through the MSF, but it was mainly that I just never got around to registering. I took the DMV test on my crf230L and passed with flying colors. I have raced bicycles for about 10 years now and felt my balance/mechanical inclination/traffic awareness was up to snuff. The 250 sure feels stable compared to flying down a hill at 55mph on a 16lb road bike with tires as wide as your thumb....

HMB-ninja · November 6th, 2009, 07:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex

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.

I have to agree with Alex, an easier way to get your License AND pick up some good basic riding skills/safty info AND possably get a lower insurance rate for having take the course!

It was like a win, win, win situation for me..... i also got my girlfriend to take the course so she could take over my scooter and i could move on to the Ninja....WIN! and then her roommate took it also when he bought a 250 to join us on rides WIN!

Delta107 · November 6th, 2009, 09:16 PM

I took it so I could wave the DMV test. I really enjoyed the course. We had a retired Motorcycle cop as are instructor and there were total of 3 of us in the class. I passed number 1 in the class. hehehe lol beat the two boys.

pedaltothemetal · December 16th, 2009, 05:02 PM

Didn't have such a course in 1967 but did take a motorcycle driving test and passed it.

fernieh07 · December 16th, 2009, 07:53 PM

I took it to see if I would like riding motorcycles... I rather pay the 250 dollars than thousands to only find out I don't like riding...

grn09segirl · December 23rd, 2009, 06:02 PM

Yes: It was very helpful for 2 reasons. I NJ it made it alot easier to get you licensce, so you dont have to sit a motor vehicle and take their ridding test and I had never ridden anything with 2 wheels before. All of the instructors were very helpful and I lerned alot. They start at the very basic level and have you ridding in now time.

ztrack157 · December 23rd, 2009, 06:14 PM

Yes long time ago. If you've never ridden it is a must. Still recommend it to those with a little bit of experience. It is not a hard course to take by any means but very informative.

ninja250 · December 24th, 2009, 10:44 AM

I've never taken it but I've been riding bikes (dirt and street, motorized and pedal powered) on and off my whole life.

Two things I was told before I rode my first street bike that really helped me were "Brake before I turn" and "When in doubt, lean it out".

Some advice I would like to add is to stay away from any cars when at all possible and when you are around them, make absolutely sure they know you are there.

NEVER tailgate! Too many reasons to list why not to for this one. The path in front of you must be clear of all obstacles.

Put your feet down and make sure they are not stuck on the pegs well before you come to a stop to prevent a stupid fall over. I am guilty of this too. Hard to stand up and pick up your bike when it's laying on your ankle.. which you will be happy your wore your gear for because that's always rule #1 and I don't even need to say it.

Just a few things I experienced and learned here while riding.

edit:
Just went through the MSF videos online.

JeffM · December 24th, 2009, 11:01 AM

Took the MSF before I bought my bike. They had a Ninja 250 so it was perfect. It definitely made me a better beginner rider. Last year I took the ERC and had a blast. There was everything from a Yamaha scooter to a turbo zx-14. Same stuff as in the MSF course except no classroom and lots more riding.

littledog · December 25th, 2009, 08:06 AM

I have not taken the MSF course.

I do have the license endorsement from before MSF courses existed, and have a good bit of two wheel experience, mostly human powered.

I am planning to take the course next time it is offered reasonably close by and doesn't get canceled. I figure it is well worth the time and money since I will at least learn a few things that might keep me from getting hurt.

Betlog · December 25th, 2009, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex

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.

^^ This.

blackfocal · December 25th, 2009, 12:53 PM

im taking my on the 7th though the 11th of january.

fivepin · April 14th, 2010, 05:12 PM

Yes, I did. When went through it we were using a kawi eleninator 125cc bike (it sucked). and that box still haunts me LOL

G250RSC · April 14th, 2010, 05:45 PM

Was excited about this past weekend teaching a MSF Course. I taught a BRC class this past weekend and we had 4 2008 ninja 250's for the new riders. Worked out quite well and hooked 3 of the new riders on getting a ninja.

Dano · April 14th, 2010, 06:28 PM

took it twice once in 91' for liscense and again in 04' for insurance discount..waste of time the second time but for 10% off insurance it was worth it since it was free in PA

bigair · April 14th, 2010, 06:44 PM

Yes. MSF was worth a 10% discount on my bike insurance. Good course as well. helped me dump some dirt bike habits. I had a tendency to drag the rear break.

littledog · April 14th, 2010, 07:35 PM

Being hardheaded in the extreme, I bought the ninja, my first motorcycle ever, the day after thanksgiving last year and tried to teach myself how to ride it. I did use every bit of reading material I could find online as a guide. And since this is Alabama, the license is not an issue.

I succeeded, well at least I have no scars proving otherwise.

I admit to being hardheaded but I know my luck only goes so far. That is why I took the BRC course last month, weekend of March 12.

My experience with the course ... First, I am an educator, a teacher by trade. We study "effective course design" The BRC is a very nicely designed course. both the class room part and the riding part.

I knew all of the content of the course before hand (it is all available online). Of the riding skills The "U-turn box" I was the one part I was not sure I could do. The rider coach said "Balance yourself with your clutch. Once you do it once, it is easy ever after"

I learned how to do the U- turn box at the BRC course.

So I passed. At the end, the lead rider coach gave a little speech. This speech was easily worth $250. He said:

"You are now qualified to ride around in a parking lot, with supervision.

I know most of you have more ambitious plans. The one thing I have to say, is never stop practicing.

When I ride, I practice swerving like this: If I am alone on a road with man hole covers, I swerve around the covers. I can feel it if I succeed or not.

Not long ago, I was riding with my MC club on the interstate. Six lanes. For some reason we never determined, some one in a car was in the middle lane backing up. Several of our members were hurt and air lifted to a nearby hospital. They have recovered to the point where they can ride again. I managed to avoid the accident. I think it is because I was better at swerving."

So even if you already knew everything they taught, there was this message from the main instructor. Very convincingly delivered. "Practice your avoidance skills as if your life depends on them. Because, it really does."

Jatan · April 14th, 2010, 07:46 PM

Never been on a bike before, insurance discount, and you get a waiver for the license so I took the course and it was amazing -- lucky for me its only $20/free in IL (you put down $20 as a deposit, you can get the $20 back if you complete the course or you can donate it to the program, I decided to donate it since the course was worth it)

First couple of hrs on the bike I was a lil shakey since it was my first time and I was nervous. Another thing was that I didnt want to risk flying off the bike -- in the first exercise one of the students had the bike in gear instead of neutral and ended up going face first into the ground (protective gear saved her from getting hurt)

Had problems with clutch control on the first day so I kept stalling out and I kept letting the clutch go once I stopped (I think I stalled more times than the rest of the class combined) -- I was good at it by the end of the first day

Loved the turning and weaving -- took their advice on "dont look down, look where you want to go" a few hrs into the first day so I did much better from that point on.

For the riding test I went wide with the u-turns in the box so points off there and in the stopping one they said I could've stopped a lil bit shorter so couple points off there. Written test was pretty straight forward, out of the 50 questions I wasnt sure about 2 of them

Great course overall and the instructors were awesome -- the classroom time wasnt boring either since everyone participated and it wasnt just the instructors reading from the book -- highly recommend the course to everyone (we had a mix of new riders and experienced riders, and even the experienced riders felt they learned safer ways of riding)

Yoda · April 15th, 2010, 06:02 AM

Retaking MSF courses again this weekend. Friday night thru sunday and of course it going to change from 60 and sunny today to 40s and raining just for the weekend

Cab305 · April 15th, 2010, 04:28 PM

Mandatory in Florida.

I don't mind would have taken it anyways. Plus for a first time rider I had a blast.

Highly recommend for anyone even thinking of riding. Counter steering alone is mind boggling to a non rider.

LegB4Wicket · April 15th, 2010, 07:36 PM

Vancouver Island Safety Council for me. There's no MSF in Canada's but pretty much the same thing.

I enrolled the basic skills course and once passing that took the road safety course. A couple of my instructors were former motorcycle constables while another was the local HOG chapter safety officer.

We'll worth the money (about $700 Cdn if I remember). That was good for in class lessons, 16 hours of skills training and two full days for traffic/road training. Plus they booked my road test for which I used one of thier bikes.

The lessons I learned and the skills I was taught have kept me out of trouble and helped me avoid some potentially no-so-nice experiences.

Take the course. If you cannot afford lesson, you cannot afford to own a motorbike.

Davidb1986 · April 15th, 2010, 07:45 PM

I took it and enjoyed it!!!

Soujyu · April 15th, 2010, 07:57 PM

I took it. Beats sitting on my rear end in front of a computer screen on the weekends.

Practically speaking, though.... since I didn't really know anyone close or friendly enough to lend me a motorcycle for the driving portion, I took the course so I could get my license without the driving portion.

Incidentally, I've.... uhh... dropped the bike during the course. On the very first exercise. At a standstill. With the engine turned off.

jonthechron · April 15th, 2010, 08:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LegB4Wicket

Vancouver Island Safety Council for me. There's no MSF in Canada's but pretty much the same thing.

I enrolled the basic skills course and once passing that took the road safety course. A couple of my instructors were former motorcycle constables while another was the local HOG chapter safety officer.

We'll worth the money (about $700 Cdn if I remember). That was good for in class lessons, 16 hours of skills training and two full days for traffic/road training. Plus they booked my road test for which I used one of thier bikes.

The lessons I learned and the skills I was taught have kept me out of trouble and helped me avoid some potentially no-so-nice experiences.

Take the course. If you cannot afford lesson, you cannot afford to own a motorbike.

In Quebec, driving school has been mandatory for new motorcycle riders for many years, as of 2010 driving school is mandatory for EVERYONE that wishes to obtain a car, motorcycle, scooter, ect.

when I did my classes in june of '09, I paid about, 700$, which is the average price on the island, classes include 6 hours of thoery (that I skipped because I already had my thoretical exam passed, got 100%)

For you guys that are interested, here are the steps in obtaining a motorcycle permit in Quebec.

1. Sign up for the driving school:
700$
2. After 6 hours of theory you pass the theory exam
Pass = 80$ Fail = 20$
3. Back to the driving school for 24 hours of practice, then rent a motorcycle for the closed circuit exam.
50$ for the rental + 90$ if you pass.
4. Practice with someone that has thier motorcycle liscence for at least 2 years, they only way you can ride for the next 11 months is with someone, no exceptions.
5. Go pass an other test to prove you can ride a bike.
Rental = 100$ examination fees = 90$

Ninja 250 = 4000$, Registration 400$ a year (april to december), insurances 500$

250rStar · April 15th, 2010, 08:24 PM

yeah great class learned alot and made me a much more comfortable rider

t0sh · April 27th, 2010, 01:28 PM

I took the class last September. I didn't have a clue about riding, I walked away from that class with confidence, and skills that I still use: slow; look; press; roll for those windy S curves in our mountains.

I also had a hard time with the box, and had to do a tight U-turn 2 nights ago. (In the dark!) I just focused on what I remembered in the class, because at times I went too slow. Here is the key: speed=stability.

It was a great class, my instructor was awesome, and I will 100% recommend this course to everyone that begins their motorcycle adventure.

ejunk81 · May 1st, 2010, 05:52 PM

Bought my bike last weekend and just finished day 1 of the MSF course today. Came away with two things:

1. When I got home, I practiced on my bike to reinforce what I learned & I realized that I had made huge improvements already.

2. Playing with the friction-zone for 4 hours really sucks!

kkim · June 2nd, 2010, 12:58 PM

Jesse8931 · July 3rd, 2011, 02:40 PM

If you have taken it please check it and if you have not please check the other option

Alex · July 3rd, 2011, 02:47 PM

/moved to Riding Skills

Alex · July 3rd, 2011, 02:48 PM

We've got a long thread on this with the same poll: right here

/merged

newboy17 · July 3rd, 2011, 10:39 PM

not yet , its $350 here in ny , times are ruff, but im just going to sing up for the road test, i got a friend who got his, and he is going to show me what to do , to pass the road test, only thing is the i have to wait about 2 months for the road test........

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

November 6th, 2009, 06:15 AM	#201
k1prototype k1prototype Name: k1prototype Location: The world Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Ducati ST4 Posts: 93	I took mine passed and then never bought a bike. About 2 years later I finally purchased my bike. I ended up looking up a lot of the techniques again via youtube in order to re-familiarize myself with what I learned. __________________________________________________ 2001 Ducati ST4 Bleu 2008 Ninja 250R Rouge ~ Sold!

November 6th, 2009, 06:51 AM	#203
Justanothermp5 ninjette.org member Name: Simon Location: Linden, NC Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R Posts: 81	i took it cuz my parents made me (only 18) lol but it turns out it was actually really easy and pretty fun i got the highest grade in the riding section in my class __________________________________________________ Woodcraft~Area P~Zero Gravity~Dynojet~DDM Custom Paint by- ME

November 6th, 2009, 10:05 AM	#205
shellneil ninjette.org member Name: shellneil Location: myrtle beach,sc Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): 1999 kawasaki ninja zx6r Posts: 56	deff was the best thing i did, it tough me first off how to even ride a bike, i couldnt even get it into 1st gear when i got there, taught me many safety things as well, things that have saved my a$$ numerous.....i'm taking the advanced next month.........oh yeah gave me my license also!!

November 6th, 2009, 07:22 PM	#209
diablo250 Crafty Salesman.... Name: Mike Location: Las Anjules(L.A.) Join Date: May 2009 Motorcycle(s): 09 250r, 06 sv650sf Posts: 170	I originally planned to take the MSF course, and I still will take an advanced rider/sportbike course through the MSF, but it was mainly that I just never got around to registering. I took the DMV test on my crf230L and passed with flying colors. I have raced bicycles for about 10 years now and felt my balance/mechanical inclination/traffic awareness was up to snuff. The 250 sure feels stable compared to flying down a hill at 55mph on a 16lb road bike with tires as wide as your thumb.... __________________________________________________ With -"IST" endings adding a negative connotation: Racist, Sexist, Polygamist, wouldn't a person who hates bikes be a cyclist? I am no longer part of the order of bike haters. I am a cycler.

November 6th, 2009, 06:26 AM	#202
marsha ninjette.org member Name: Marsha Location: tampa Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250 Posts: 76	Yes, I took it here in FL this August. I'd never driven a motorcycle before & thought this would be the best way to learn. I was very nervous, but fortunately the instructors were FANTASTIC and my fears quickly disappeared. It was money well spent, not to mention it's required now in FL in order to get your motorcycle endorsement.

November 6th, 2009, 10:27 AM	#206
jcgirl ninjette.org guru Name: Jenn Location: Victoria Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): Bot Posts: 295	I took the Learn to Ride course here on the island. It's pricey, running just over $500. Totally worth it though. 2 evenings in a classroom going over all the theory and two full days on the bikes. I learned so much!!! Would recommend it to anyone else like me who had never tried to ride a bike before.

November 6th, 2009, 11:42 AM	#207
danknation ninjette.org member Name: Eric Location: Denton, Tx Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250R SE Posts: 84	I didn't bother with it, mainly because I did not have an extra $190 to spend. One of my friends just took it a few weekends ago and all the stuff he told me he learned seemed like common sense. I know a lot of you say it will reduce my chances of going down but I just don't plain belive it. If you have never ridden anything before then take it, if you know how to work a clutch and understand vehicles then don't waste the money. I had a bit of dirt experience and enough time as a motorhead to get myself started. As a matter of fact, I was able to find videos on youtube illustrating all of their practice techniques and just replicated them myself in an empty parking lot, for $200 cheaper then what they wanted.

November 6th, 2009, 06:48 PM	#208
Allen ninjette.org member Name: Allen Location: North GA Mt's Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 08 250 Ninja Posts: 16	Took the MSF about 14 months ago after not riding for about 10 years. I had about 20 years previous experience. Glad I did. It teaches more than what you learn. It teaches you TO LEARN. I've read several books also to continue my learning. You have to be careful about new bike riding methodology. As my instructor said "Practice does not make perfect,,,,,,,,,,,Perfect Practice makes Perfect" Learn to practice the Perfect methodology.

November 6th, 2009, 09:16 PM	#211
Delta107 ninjette.org member Name: Delta Location: Colorado Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R - BLUE Posts: 139	I took it so I could wave the DMV test. I really enjoyed the course. We had a retired Motorcycle cop as are instructor and there were total of 3 of us in the class. I passed number 1 in the class. hehehe lol beat the two boys.

December 16th, 2009, 05:02 PM	#212
pedaltothemetal ninjette.org member Name: Leo Location: Monterey Park, CA in SoCal/SGV Join Date: Dec 2009 Motorcycle(s): Plasma Blue 2008 Ninja 250R, 2006 Honda Ruckus 180cc swap, 1967 BMW R60US, 2008 Ninja ZX-14se Posts: 240	Didn't have such a course in 1967 but did take a motorcycle driving test and passed it.

December 16th, 2009, 07:53 PM	#213
fernieh07 ninjette.org member Name: Fernando Location: Tolleson, az Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): 08 ninja 250r Posts: 24	I took it to see if I would like riding motorcycles... I rather pay the 250 dollars than thousands to only find out I don't like riding...

December 23rd, 2009, 06:02 PM	#214
grn09segirl ninjette.org member Name: K Location: NJ Join Date: Dec 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Yamaha Fz6R Posts: 119	Yes: It was very helpful for 2 reasons. I NJ it made it alot easier to get you licensce, so you dont have to sit a motor vehicle and take their ridding test and I had never ridden anything with 2 wheels before. All of the instructors were very helpful and I lerned alot. They start at the very basic level and have you ridding in now time.

December 23rd, 2009, 06:14 PM	#215
ztrack157 The Sportisi Master Name: Matt Location: Chico Join Date: May 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250 Posts: A lot.	Yes long time ago. If you've never ridden it is a must. Still recommend it to those with a little bit of experience. It is not a hard course to take by any means but very informative. __________________________________________________ Sportisimoto USA is born.

December 24th, 2009, 10:44 AM	#216
ninja250 You are sleeping Name: Casey Location: LMFAO!!! Join Date: Nov 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2 Posts: A lot.	I've never taken it but I've been riding bikes (dirt and street, motorized and pedal powered) on and off my whole life. Two things I was told before I rode my first street bike that really helped me were "Brake before I turn" and "When in doubt, lean it out". Some advice I would like to add is to stay away from any cars when at all possible and when you are around them, make absolutely sure they know you are there. NEVER tailgate! Too many reasons to list why not to for this one. The path in front of you must be clear of all obstacles. Put your feet down and make sure they are not stuck on the pegs well before you come to a stop to prevent a stupid fall over. I am guilty of this too. Hard to stand up and pick up your bike when it's laying on your ankle.. which you will be happy your wore your gear for because that's always rule #1 and I don't even need to say it. Just a few things I experienced and learned here while riding. edit: Just went through the MSF videos online.

December 24th, 2009, 11:01 AM	#217
JeffM Mr. 988 Name: Jeff Location: Sandy, Utah Join Date: Aug 2009 Motorcycle(s): One Posts: A lot. Blog Entries: 1	Took the MSF before I bought my bike. They had a Ninja 250 so it was perfect. It definitely made me a better beginner rider. Last year I took the ERC and had a blast. There was everything from a Yamaha scooter to a turbo zx-14. Same stuff as in the MSF course except no classroom and lots more riding.

December 25th, 2009, 08:06 AM	#218
littledog ninjette.org member Name: Peter Location: Deep South, USA Join Date: Dec 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Special Edition Ninja 250 a good memory, 2011 Suzuki DL 650 the new ride Posts: 131	I have not taken the MSF course. I do have the license endorsement from before MSF courses existed, and have a good bit of two wheel experience, mostly human powered. I am planning to take the course next time it is offered reasonably close by and doesn't get canceled. I figure it is well worth the time and money since I will at least learn a few things that might keep me from getting hurt.

December 25th, 2009, 12:53 PM	#220
blackfocal ninjette.org member Name: kyle Location: fayetteville ar Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250R Posts: 20	im taking my on the 7th though the 11th of january.

April 14th, 2010, 05:12 PM	#221
fivepin ninjette.org member Name: Cory Location: Glendale, AZ Join Date: Mar 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Ninja 250R Posts: 22	Yes, I did. When went through it we were using a kawi eleninator 125cc bike (it sucked). and that box still haunts me LOL __________________________________________________ MMI Phoenix 2010

April 14th, 2010, 05:45 PM	#222
G250RSC ninjette.org member Name: Gene Location: Lexington SC Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 250R Posts: 44	Was excited about this past weekend teaching a MSF Course. I taught a BRC class this past weekend and we had 4 2008 ninja 250's for the new riders. Worked out quite well and hooked 3 of the new riders on getting a ninja.

April 14th, 2010, 06:28 PM	#223
Dano ninjette.org sage Name: Dan Location: Perryopolis, PA Join Date: Mar 2010 Motorcycle(s): 09' Blue Ninja 250R and 07' Honda 919 Posts: 605	took it twice once in 91' for liscense and again in 04' for insurance discount..waste of time the second time but for 10% off insurance it was worth it since it was free in PA

April 14th, 2010, 06:44 PM	#224
bigair ninjette.org member Name: Gary Location: Broomfield, CO Join Date: Mar 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250r Posts: 23	Yes. MSF was worth a 10% discount on my bike insurance. Good course as well. helped me dump some dirt bike habits. I had a tendency to drag the rear break. __________________________________________________ Cyclecontrol adj. levers, Roaring Toys risers, Shogun frame sliders, Woodcraft rearsets, Kappa saddle bags.

April 14th, 2010, 07:35 PM	#225
littledog ninjette.org member Name: Peter Location: Deep South, USA Join Date: Dec 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Special Edition Ninja 250 a good memory, 2011 Suzuki DL 650 the new ride Posts: 131	Being hardheaded in the extreme, I bought the ninja, my first motorcycle ever, the day after thanksgiving last year and tried to teach myself how to ride it. I did use every bit of reading material I could find online as a guide. And since this is Alabama, the license is not an issue. I succeeded, well at least I have no scars proving otherwise. I admit to being hardheaded but I know my luck only goes so far. That is why I took the BRC course last month, weekend of March 12. My experience with the course ... First, I am an educator, a teacher by trade. We study "effective course design" The BRC is a very nicely designed course. both the class room part and the riding part. I knew all of the content of the course before hand (it is all available online). Of the riding skills The "U-turn box" I was the one part I was not sure I could do. The rider coach said "Balance yourself with your clutch. Once you do it once, it is easy ever after" I learned how to do the U- turn box at the BRC course. So I passed. At the end, the lead rider coach gave a little speech. This speech was easily worth $250. He said: "You are now qualified to ride around in a parking lot, with supervision. I know most of you have more ambitious plans. The one thing I have to say, is never stop practicing. When I ride, I practice swerving like this: If I am alone on a road with man hole covers, I swerve around the covers. I can feel it if I succeed or not. Not long ago, I was riding with my MC club on the interstate. Six lanes. For some reason we never determined, some one in a car was in the middle lane backing up. Several of our members were hurt and air lifted to a nearby hospital. They have recovered to the point where they can ride again. I managed to avoid the accident. I think it is because I was better at swerving." So even if you already knew everything they taught, there was this message from the main instructor. Very convincingly delivered. "Practice your avoidance skills as if your life depends on them. Because, it really does."

April 14th, 2010, 07:46 PM	#226
Jatan ... Name: Jatan Location: Chicago, IL Join Date: Apr 2010 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250/300 (some day) Posts: 40	Never been on a bike before, insurance discount, and you get a waiver for the license so I took the course and it was amazing -- lucky for me its only $20/free in IL (you put down $20 as a deposit, you can get the $20 back if you complete the course or you can donate it to the program, I decided to donate it since the course was worth it) First couple of hrs on the bike I was a lil shakey since it was my first time and I was nervous. Another thing was that I didnt want to risk flying off the bike -- in the first exercise one of the students had the bike in gear instead of neutral and ended up going face first into the ground (protective gear saved her from getting hurt) Had problems with clutch control on the first day so I kept stalling out and I kept letting the clutch go once I stopped (I think I stalled more times than the rest of the class combined) -- I was good at it by the end of the first day Loved the turning and weaving -- took their advice on "dont look down, look where you want to go" a few hrs into the first day so I did much better from that point on. For the riding test I went wide with the u-turns in the box so points off there and in the stopping one they said I could've stopped a lil bit shorter so couple points off there. Written test was pretty straight forward, out of the 50 questions I wasnt sure about 2 of them Great course overall and the instructors were awesome -- the classroom time wasnt boring either since everyone participated and it wasnt just the instructors reading from the book -- highly recommend the course to everyone (we had a mix of new riders and experienced riders, and even the experienced riders felt they learned safer ways of riding) __________________________________________________ MSF Range Aide Ninja 250/300 (some day)

April 15th, 2010, 06:02 AM	#227
Yoda ninjette.org member Name: Lee Location: Naugatuck, CT Join Date: Mar 2010 Motorcycle(s): 08 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Blue Posts: 150	Retaking MSF courses again this weekend. Friday night thru sunday and of course it going to change from 60 and sunny today to 40s and raining just for the weekend __________________________________________________ Mmmm when gone down you have look so good you will not.

April 15th, 2010, 04:28 PM	#228
Cab305 ninjette.org sage Name: Cab Location: Miami Beach Join Date: Mar 2010 Motorcycle(s): Blue 10 250r Posts: 697	Mandatory in Florida. I don't mind would have taken it anyways. Plus for a first time rider I had a blast. Highly recommend for anyone even thinking of riding. Counter steering alone is mind boggling to a non rider.

April 15th, 2010, 07:36 PM	#229
LegB4Wicket ninjette.org member Name: Ben Location: Victoria, British Columbia Join Date: Apr 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Blue Kawasaki Ninja 250R Posts: 66	Vancouver Island Safety Council for me. There's no MSF in Canada's but pretty much the same thing. I enrolled the basic skills course and once passing that took the road safety course. A couple of my instructors were former motorcycle constables while another was the local HOG chapter safety officer. We'll worth the money (about $700 Cdn if I remember). That was good for in class lessons, 16 hours of skills training and two full days for traffic/road training. Plus they booked my road test for which I used one of thier bikes. The lessons I learned and the skills I was taught have kept me out of trouble and helped me avoid some potentially no-so-nice experiences. Take the course. If you cannot afford lesson, you cannot afford to own a motorbike.

April 15th, 2010, 07:45 PM	#230
Davidb1986 ninjette.org member Name: David Location: Waxahachie Join Date: Dec 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250r SE green with Monster energy decals!!! Posts: 223	I took it and enjoyed it!!! __________________________________________________ Now who wants to live their souls desire? One day we're born to realize. One sobering thought is forced upon. We should know, we'll know!!! - Leto's Headache by the band Chevelle

April 15th, 2010, 07:57 PM	#231
Soujyu ninjette.org sage Name: W Location: Austin, TX Join Date: Mar 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2010 Ninja 250R (sold), 2012 Tuono V4R Posts: 512	I took it. Beats sitting on my rear end in front of a computer screen on the weekends. Practically speaking, though.... since I didn't really know anyone close or friendly enough to lend me a motorcycle for the driving portion, I took the course so I could get my license without the driving portion. Incidentally, I've.... uhh... dropped the bike during the course. On the very first exercise. At a standstill. With the engine turned off. __________________________________________________ 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250R - "Aria" (sold) 2012 Aprilia Tuono V4R - "Perrine" Proof that Harleys and Ninjettes are friendly with each other

April 15th, 2010, 08:24 PM	#233
250rStar super ninja Name: TJ Location: Sacramento Join Date: Feb 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 kawasaki 250r Posts: 127	yeah great class learned alot and made me a much more comfortable rider __________________________________________________ 2009 Ninja 250r aftermarket parts HotBodies double bubble Swing Arm Sliders Sylvania Sliverstar Ultra Akrapovic Slip-on Shinto Clip-Ons/Grips/Bar Ends

April 27th, 2010, 01:28 PM	#234
t0sh ninjette.org member Name: Jen Location: CA Join Date: Apr 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Ninja 250r Posts: 40	I took the class last September. I didn't have a clue about riding, I walked away from that class with confidence, and skills that I still use: slow; look; press; roll for those windy S curves in our mountains. I also had a hard time with the box, and had to do a tight U-turn 2 nights ago. (In the dark!) I just focused on what I remembered in the class, because at times I went too slow. Here is the key: speed=stability. It was a great class, my instructor was awesome, and I will 100% recommend this course to everyone that begins their motorcycle adventure.

May 1st, 2010, 05:52 PM	#235
ejunk81 ninjette.org member Name: Eric Location: Mckinney TX Join Date: Apr 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250 Posts: 27	Bought my bike last weekend and just finished day 1 of the MSF course today. Came away with two things: 1. When I got home, I practiced on my bike to reinforce what I learned & I realized that I had made huge improvements already. 2. Playing with the friction-zone for 4 hours really sucks!

June 2nd, 2010, 12:58 PM	#236
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.

July 3rd, 2011, 02:40 PM	#237
Jesse8931 ninjette.org guru Name: Jesse Location: Ann arbor mi Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2007 ninja 250r Posts: 374	Who has taken the msf class. If you have taken it please check it and if you have not please check the other option

July 3rd, 2011, 02:47 PM	#238
Alex 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	/moved to Riding Skills __________________________________________________ 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)