Here goes nothing.

"benjrblant" (benjblant)
07/31/2017 at 12:41 • Filed to: Two Wheels Good, hopefully, i dunno- i might hate it, but hey, gotta try sometime

After kicking the idea of getting a moto license for years, to the point of my better half rolling her eyes and saying something along the lines of “oh, this topic again?” I finally registered for an MSF course.

Kicking the idea back and forth has netted me nothing and I’m hoping that getting some riding time will help make things more clear. If its not for me, I’m only out the cost of the class and one weekend. If I love it, I’m most of the way towards getting a permit.

Fingers crossed that I love it.

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DISCUSSION (13)

Hammerdown > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 12:53

That’s the best part of the MSF class. You get to try it out for a weekend while learning, from square one, how to do it safely. Do you have some gear lined up?

benjrblant > Hammerdown
07/31/2017 at 12:57

The website says: “ Students must provide eye protection (goggles, eye or sunglasses) full fingered gloves, long sleeve shirt or jacket, long sturdy pants, and over-the-ankle footwear.” All of which I presently have, even if they’re not for motorcycle applications. The course will provide an open-face helmet which I’ve heard is preferred as its easier to talk to the instructor. On the fence about buying a full face helmet before or after the course.

Thoughts?

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 13:05

Probably for the best. You won’t go much faster than 20ish mph. Certainly enough to get some bruises, but highly unlikely you’ll break anything. Full face works perfectly for instructions.

If/when you look at specialized gear, I’ve found some crazy good prices for beginner gear on ebay. Textile pants (with armored knees and abrasion resistant outer layer) for 50-60$, armored jackets for 150-200, full face HJC and Bell helmets (low frills, solid safety record) for 100-150$ and armored boots for under 100$. SPend some time in a motorcycle store and try stuff on. Maybe see if you can get “end of the season” closeouts as fall and winter approaches and they switch to snowmobile/quad gear. But don’t overspend or be too picky about colors and whatnot until you’ve gotten some use out of your first set. I still look like an extra from a B-movie set but most of my gear is still in good shape and is mostly high-viz yellow so....yeah, it’s fine. Although I’m looking into new boots and pants when deals pop up.

Hammerdown > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 13:07

Wow! The place I did my MSF at did not provide helmets, so that’s cool! Obviously if they are going to provide a helmet I would use there’s in case you decide it’s not for you.

Other than that, I would bring both sunglasses (that you wear often and are comfortable with) and some safety glasses in case it is overcast. They won’t let you run without eye protection.

The same principal with glasses applies to the rest of your gear. Bring backups/alternate options if you’re not 100% comfortable with it (boots and jeans are probably fine, but I’d bring extra gloves and long sleeve layers for different temps/conditions). Be ready for all weather and bring lots of water/snacks.

It doesn’t seem like it’ll be that bad, but the level of focus you’ll be exerting will drain you by the end of the day. Take care of your body with food/drink so you can get the maximum amount of riding time.

Other than that, relax, listen to the instructors, ask questions when you have them, and enjoy!

McMike > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 13:16

Don’t buy the helmet until you start shopping for a motorcycle. Just use the ones they have at the class.

benjrblant > McMike
07/31/2017 at 13:21

Any particular reasoning, or just trying to not get stuck with a spendy helmet and no moto?

TheRealBicycleBuck > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 13:28

Helmets are a very personal item and you will want some knowledge before you make a selection. Fit and finish are important, but basic shape, style and features are too.

I would go get a helmet liner. It will make putting the helmet on and taking it off a bit easier, plus it helps keep the helmet funk off your head.

Kinja'd!!!

fintail > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 13:31

You’ll love it. It’s fun. I even did the additional class they have for riders who have already have received a license and are on the road, just for the heck of it.

The best way I found to proceed with a course like this is to simply not tell your significant other or mom etc.

benjrblant > fintail
07/31/2017 at 13:41

My SO has been really supportive and encouraging, probably so that I stop talking to her about it.

I’m never telling my mother.

McMike > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 13:45

That’s the exact reason.

That’s the same reason people don’t run out and buy skis, ice skates, and bowling balls right away.

You also made it sound like there might be a little resistance at home towards it, as well as this statement:

If its not for me, I’m only out the cost of the class and one weekend.

A nice helmet can be expensive, as well as a constant reminder sitting on that shelf at home that you spent $300 for a hat you never wear.

fintail > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 14:52

Good angle, make her agree so you’ll shut up :)

I mentioned it to my mother once. Never again.

fennelbreath > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 15:29

I completed it (my second attempt) in early June. My FIL completed it last week. It’s a lot of fun.

Seconding what a lot of others have said: don’t buy a helmet yet. It’s a significant investment and you’ll want to take your time to find the right one. However, do buy a helmet liner/sock to take with you to class for the comfort/hygiene factor. I’d also suggest taking a spare pair of gloves. If you take a spill and your gloves tear, they won’t let you continue with the class. Mechanics gloves and leather gloves are fine; they don’t need to be riding gloves.

TheRealBicycleBuck > benjrblant
07/31/2017 at 15:43

My mom was sorely disappointed when she found out that I ride. I’m not sure she ever forgave me for that.