Practice, practice, practice

by donna
(Oregon)

As a brand new rider the best "advice" I can give is find an out of the way parking lot and practice there. Practice stopping and turning both left and right. Practice making U turns. Just practice riding around. I rarely got out of first gear! I did this for 6 months after failing the MSF course and was then able to pass the DMV test on my Harley Sportster. Although I was really disappointed when I failed the MSF skills test, I actually think it made me a better rider because I was "forced" into practicing more in order to pass the DMV test. I am still learning and practicing but now I can at least ride on the highway by myself. All that parking lot practice really built up my confidence in handling my motorcycle. I also recommend watching the "Ride like a Pro" DVD and reading "Proficient Motorcycling" by David L. Hough.