Just coming back 3 years later to say thank you. I started riding 3 years ago and always watched your channel. You’ve helped me a lot. In 2020 I got into a motorcycle wreck a drunk driver hit me head on and I flew 50 feet into a ditch. Got life flighted and was in the hospital for ONLY 3 DAYS! I walked out of there with a bad concussion, a broken rib and alot of road rash. 4 weeks later I got another bike and I’m still riding!!
I know what you mean about getting on a freeway at first. I finally learned how to ride at 60 years old. Once I got some practice on a 450 Honda, I bought a new Harley 1200 custom. Decided to try my first road trip, rode from NE Indiana to Central Arkansas. I was a nervous wreck when I first took off, now I love riding on the freeway.
I tried to teach myself to ride for about 2 weeks before I took the MSF course. The MSF course I took was 1 day in class, 2 days on the course for a total of three days. The difference between how I rode for the 2 weeks I taught myself ride compared to 3 days of MSF training was MASSIVE. The MSF course should be required. It's truly a life saver. Here in NH if you get a permit, your license is free once you get your MSF certificate.
Wesley Dearman same story here. There's a lot of shit that they bit me on right off the bat haha. Common sense shit mostly, like, covering the front brake while riding and looking through the turns. So glad I did it and I also met a really awesome girl in the class.
MSF is required down here in RI to get your permit. Total investment for the course, permit, and license with endorsement (after permit for minimum 30days with no citations) was less than $200.
I just got my motorcycle license yesterday. I have been binge watching your videos for the past month in preparation (I also took an MSF course) and they have helped a lot, thank you!
The biggest part about downshifting smoothly is letting the clutch out slowly. I’ve seen a couple people, including me, just slamming the clutch in when I downshift. Once you get this down then learn to blip the throttle and match the revs. EDIT - Downshifting was the hardest thing for me to learn and learning to slowly release the clutch helped me a ton.
If you know how to rev-match by heel-toe shifting in a car, it can also be helpful to do such a technique on a bike, i.e. blip the throttle to increase the engine speed while the clutch is in so that the clutch release is less critical.
A lot of people think that wearing a jacket will be really hot, not the case as long as you are moving, my summer jacket is vented but I have never opened the zippered vents even when it was 90 degrees, with the vents closed it still gets enough air that I don't need to , now in winter time using the included liner I still feel that I need to wear something underneath because how much air goes through. In hot weather it actually helps you stay cooler, as long as you are moving...they also have vented pants and vented gloves, and most full face helmets have vents so......
Can vouch. I live in southern california so I really only need summer things, but my jacket is a rather bulky leather one, and I get asked all the time if it's really hot. Well, no, it's actually freezing cold when the weather drops below 60 lol. Vents are a huge deal.
Even though I'm an long time rider, my brother suggested to take the MSF course. Not only did I learn I had bad habits, I learned a lot of great skills, and, on top of all that I had fun. We had a great group and everyone was supportive of new riders who had no experience at all. Tip for new riders, when practicing turns, sit as close to the center of the bike as you can. This may mean seating closer to the tank than you normally would. You have much better control in this position, sort of where the seating is on Motor Patrol ( Police bike) it may feel strange at first but you will be able to maneuver turns much better. Check out some Motor cop rodeo videos to see seating position I'm talking about. It will help you a ton when you have to do the dreaded box figure eight for the license test. Trust me on that one for controllability.
One really good advice my instructor gave me was to move to the middle of the lane when turning left. It will indicate people behind that I am indeed turning left and leave them no space to try and take over, which they sometimes do and cause an accident. Also all of this talk about different types of traffic, night riding, they are requirements during training. We have to go through all of those and polygon included before taking an exam.
So glad I stumbled across your channel. I recently bought an 04 Road King Police after being off a bike for 10 years. You know how everyone says "Its like riding a bicycle: you never forget". WRONG! I forgot a LOT! Your channel is helping me remember and building my confidence. I can't thank you enough. Ride Safe!
Hello !!! Great channel !!! It’s very surprising how easy it is in US to have the bike driving license… I’m French, and here (it’s almost the same all around Europe…) it’s way more complicated : - be older than 18yo ( you can pass your license at 16yo, but you’ll be restricted under 125cc) - it is obligatory to go to a “driving school” : it costs around 1000€ (1100-1200 US$) - pass a theoretical test (40 questions about rules, signs, etc…) This test is the same than the car license, if your car license has less than 5 years, you don’t have to pass this test… - then, with a professional instructor you will learn at first in a closed area the basis, slow exercises : slaloms, u-turns, rear brake, front brake, alone and with passenger. But also faster exercises, speed slaloms, speed braking, emergency braking, and emergency swerves. Slow and fast exercises have to be done with a time limit and different configurations of each type has to be mastered. - you also have to learn specific items about bikes : mechanical, safety, how to ride as a group…. 40 cards to learn. - when you instructors thinks you are ready, you can pass your first exam. It took me 10 hours of trainings (2hours each Saturday morning but I used to drive small bikes with clutch and so since I was kid…). This first test consists in 1 slow exercise with a part with passenger, and 1 fast exercises. Of course if it is raining, the limit of time is bigger. During this test, you will be also examined about one of the 40 cards you supposed to learn, and you also need to have an approval helmet, approval gloves and approval jacket. - then you are allowed to continue to learn riding with your instructor but this time on the road. As I already had my car license it was mostly to learn the specific road positions, specific controls to make at an intersection, roundabout, but also line filtering, “fast” cornering…. - for me, it tooks 6 hours. - then final test. But !!! Since 2016, no matter your age, you’ll be limited with a bike under 48 horsepower during 2 years. So, here you have regular bikes (MT07, Tiger 900, 850GS…) that you can buy with only 48hp. After 2 years, you can “release” the engine of your bike but these bikes don’t have to have more than 95hp in regular configuration. It could seem crazy for American people !!!! How, and insurances are also obligatory, and companies will ask you to prove that you bought an anti-theft device….
Thanks for sharing this information - super helpful! I just completed the MSF course yesterday and recently bought my first bike. Glad I stumbled upon your You Tube channel!
Great advice Dan. After i signed up for the MSF course i bought my bike. Then once i passed the course i had the bike to start riding immediately. Riding a motorcycle is a diminishing skill, so maxing your ride time is primary.
Thank you. I haven't ridden a motorcycle yet but my interest has been growing for a long time now and everything you said in this video really resonated with me. You have a very lucid and level-headed delivery style which I think is missing on some of these motorcycle channels. Big props.
Investing in good summer gear is a game changer as you will be more comfortable longer.. I absolutely love my summer jacket. Dress for the slide not the vibe.
I just got my first motorcycle last night.. had it delivered to my house today because my only experience has been the Idaho STAR course (similar to MSR I believe) and then the test drive I went on of the bike I bought through a little neighborhood. I took a few short rides today and now have been watching a bunch of your videos. Very helpful!
You've already given me more confidence for getting ready for getting my provisional license and doing my CBT in a few months. You've earned yourself a subscriber 👍
I bought a Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 for my first bike because like you I had a friend get a bike and it made me want one. Well I will practice in my neighborhood (no course training) and I liked it but stalked constantly. This discouraged me and started thinking of selling it. This is where your 100% right about a mentor to talk to, my friend is not a very experienced rider but I have a neighbor that is and one day I seen him out about to start riding his bike. I approached him with “hey I’m thinking of selling my bike if you know anyone interested”. He began to question why and I told him about stalling so he asked to try my bike himself. Gave me some good tips and told me what I was doing wrong. Rode it around the neighborhood that day and a few days after without stalling once and truly love riding and love this bike. Gotta have a mentor for sure!!
Just got a 200 CC Bike and started riding around and getting used to it. About 15 mins of riding practice I decided to call it a day and pulled up my driveway stalled out and basically dropped the bike on the right side. I almost got it lifted up using my back and arms, almost! I Pretty much threw out my back trying to lift the bike and panicked a little. How the hell am I gonna get this bike up? Just then a guy drove by stopped and asked if I needed help? Absolutely I do and he showed me how to pick it up using your back against the seat and lifting with your legs slowly. He said not to worry it happens to everyone, it’s just our pride that gets hurt and that he even dropped his Harley Something? which he says weighs almost 900 lbs. Turns out he’s a neighbor from down the block and really cool dude! As a NOOB I started having 2nd thoughts because it’s a lot harder than it looks. I wish I had a mentor, but I guess UA-cam is the next best thing and your channel has been very helpful, Thanks for sharing and teaching new riders!
Training courses are required here in Australia. You need to do a 2 day course and a multiple choice before getting your Ls. I'm so glad I did it because when I picked up my first bike, i had to take it straight on the highway to get home. Ended up stalling in the middle of a 3 way intersection, but got going again quickly and it could have been alot worse if I hadn't had that training.
Im watching this from germany and Im only 14 years old but already obsessed with motorcycels 😂 i sometimes ride with my dad and would like to ride by myself when im old enought 😊 till Then i supose watching you Videos is all i can do 😳 thanks for the Tipps i might need them in a few years... But im afraid we dont have a msf course in germany... Well hopefully my dad will teach me everything i need to know 😉 love your Videos
I'm very grateful that FL requires an MSF course prior to getting an endorsement. I still would take it, either way, but it's just safer if they require it.
That was a big help. Been riding my scooter confidently for 15 years. Riding much less after getting knoked down in a parking lot 3 years ago. Noboday was hurt, but it was a psycological effect. Used to think parking lots were safe... Thanks for all the wonderful videos.
Damn bro don’t let that get to you, when you’re on a motorcycle you have to be okay with having no safe places just how it is, bad drivers are everywhere and eventually you will always find them just learn how to anticipate, prevent and react enjoy your bike
Hey dandan my friend is my mentor too he got a bike and he recommended that I watch your videos for pointers for certain things that I need to be aware of while I ride and he also is giving me pointers on what bike I should get since I'll be a beginner rider amd just like you he said to look in a used bike so that way I wont feel as bad if and when I do lay it down so thanks for what you do dan
I’ve been trying to have a few of my friends come to mentor me. They keep saying they will but they keep standing me up. I just got my Yamaha Bolt but I live in a complex that only has a parking garage that immediately goes up or down. It’s not really flat. I’ve been kind of scared about getting the bike out or back in. But I need to get out to a parking lot. I took the MSF course but it was almost a year ago. I’m just going to go on my own tomorrow. I’ve been watching your videos again for refresher and tips. I don’t live in California anymore, where I took my MSF course. I moved back to GA.
Just bought my first bike thanks for the tips! Kinda nervous but I’m def going to the class. Gonna stay in the neighborhoods and parking lots till the class is done. Stay safe brother!
Second day riding, first day on the actual street and going above 30 was a bit concerning. Switching gears and actually going after stopping is where I had the most problem but Im glad Im back home unscratched.
I have been on bikes with gears and plenty of power but I don’t have a license or a bike and I am starting to think about moving to a bike because it’s so much fun
great tips man. as a dutchman the practicing is very different. here in the Netherlands you go to a driving school, you do a lesson program. this is all mandatory. so we all get to practice the u turns and the swerving and things like that. love your content Dan. I just subscribed today. keep up the awesome vids
I did the Harley rider ed course and it was 3 days. it was a fantastic experience even though i wrecked one hard, but i learned so much and within 3 months of the course i went from a 800 suzuki to a 1800 m109r Suzuki. highly recommend it.
Just finished the MSF motorcycle safety course today (was a weekend course) and I had never operated a motorcycle before yesterday and when I say that course was amazing! I’m taking the M3 course next weekend because I eventually want a trike. For now, I’m ready to purchase a small starter bike but wasn’t sure what to do next and your video has reaallyyy helped me!!
Riding for 6 years and still refreshing to have a chill rider help reinforce. If you think you know everything, you are mistaken. Learn, learn and then relearn.
Dude Ive been thinking about getting a motorcycle and this video makes me want one soooo much. I turn 18 in a few months and my entire family rides so Theyve been teaching me and I was scared now I saw this and im good now thank you!
Just to add if your in an area where the MSF courses are not free Harley gives discounts to military active or former and to all first reponders (cops, fireman, ems) as well as the spouse.
Here in France you must take 20 hours of riding course before being allowed to pass the permit test, plus you're not allowed to practice on you own off-class. Then you have to pass three tests to get your license : one theorical test about safety and accidents data, one off-road, and one on-road. Cost of the whole process is about 1500$ and failure is about 50% on your first attempt. I passed it a year ago and have been ridden ever since but I still have the feeling I don't know much about riding. The US has always been more of a freedom/responsability kind of country and I like it but when it comes to riding motorcycles I wonder if it's a good thing. Hopefully lots of riders practice regularly like you do cause if not I would be afraid to ride in the US to be honest - which I'm actually about to do next Spring! Thanks for the nice video, you got one more suscriber from Paris.
Yeah the rules are pretty lax around here. My MSF course was $350 with 10 hours of riding. I often read comments from new riders saying they have trouble staling when the light turns green. I'm getting my first motorcycle tomorrow (or the day after tomorrow) and I don't even plan on going anywhere near traffic light intersections until I become competent at using the friction zone and not stalling.
Really great video and great advice. The only thing I noticed was not stopping at the stop sign in the beginning. Just another really great practice is to start and stop a lot.
I'm in arizona too! I just got my ktm duke. Im loving it. Didnt take a course. But I have someone close to me teaching me . I might still take one. I got my permit for now.
Sir; Love your channel but I recommend you take an MSF course! And then the BRC2 and perhaps the sports bike rider msf course if u have a sports bike! They are fantastic tools! Also you cam mentioned than issurance companies give you a discount if you have taken the course and if you are an msf instructor!
sometimes i load my backpack with my handtools for work and sometimes i load up all my fishing gear in it. the trick is to have it cinched up and tight but also resting on the seat. :)though im on a grom. but it helps to keep all the weight from being only on your back. i live around pretty heavy traffic so it comes with its own drama but i love the grom. i wasnt allowed motorcycles as a kid. so i just rode my friends dirt bikes here and there or borrowed one here and there when i could growing up. but then you hear everyone hating on bikes... so i was nervous af before i first rode with traffic but then after 5 min i was like wtf was i nervous for.. i havent ridden a dirtbike for years though and i just needed cheap transport and i know if i got a fast bike i would prob be riding it too hard so the grom is perfect for me cant get me in too much trouble yet i can still do whatever i want when i want. ive taken it to the valley and other cities already luckily here in cali there is tons of old side streets that connect everywhere along with the freeways so ya i like it. i actually made better time with the grom then a car going side streets on grom vs freeway with car. lol. traffic man. really only one thing bothers me about the grom is the asshole wannabe car/truck racers who try to race my grom... shits annoying and funny to me.
Watching Dan. Moto Jitsu, Ryan "Fort Nine," Yammie Noob, and others can give you pointers on things like clutching, front & rear brake usage, how to RELAX your arms and grip, WHY you need this or that kind of gear, why people like or dislike various kinds of bikes, and what to EXPECT, from them, and, things like RACKS, for better strapping-down the stuff you're needing to carry, and things like that. They ALSO teach you dumb stuff to AVOID , and simple habits that can make things SAFER which you MIGHT not think-of. Having picked-up on how to easily become familiar with the "friction-zone" on the clutch lever, WHY you put your left foot-down, WHY you shift into First Gear, at a stop, how and why you GRADUALLY apply braking, and so-on allow you to make more progress, faster, during a motorcycle training course. There's a lot to learn, so the more you can glean from the GOOD UA-cam videos, the more you'll have out-of-the-way, so that you can absorb more during the class time, whether in the classroom, or out on the range, actually ON the bikes. See the beginners guide link, below, so that you're starting-off RIGHT, instead of having to unlearn bad habits.
Love the channel, it's really helped me a lot. I've ridden dirt bikes, mini bikes, etc. in the past but recently I've decided to make the commitment to learn to ride on the street. I'm taking my MSF course this weekend, can't wait!
Don't grab a handful of break, learnt that about 10m after I got on my first bike. If I wasn't wearing a helmet, I would have been a splat on the road. There u have two tips right there.
I bought a used 750 sport bike and rode it home on the interstate with no experience. I was young and stupid, but I made it. After that, tons of practice in my neighborhood with lots of circles and figure 8's in a parking lot.
I got it backwards..I hopped on the highway the first day I got my bike...more due to need than want. Had to go to work that day and I had no other vehicle..wonderful experience. Learned to tuck that day. 😭😂
I’m in Arizona too and I’m taking a class in November currently don’t have a bike but know what I want I was a 07 and up road king because I wanna travel I wanna cruise and I have goals and I’m so happy I found you’re Channel because your from here so I get so much out of your content!!
I have gotten the commitment for buying a bike today as I have someone in the next town over that is going to sell me a 2018 Yamaha r3 320 in about 2 months after the end of June. It is a done deal now. Just have to finsih putting the 4000CAD together.
This video is very helpful, I just just passed my permit test yesterday and as soon as I get my income tax I’m buying a bike. I’m really excited to get out on the bike. Thank you for putting out a great video like this.
Here in the uk you have a take a compulsory basic training test (one day course) and you can only get a 125cc bike until you take you full bike test and once you passed you can get a higher cc bike
I just found out your channel....i'm from switzerland and i am learning right now, really cool video dude, you give me lot of motivation! Subscribed for sure!
Ya Dan Always wanted to ride But just need to commit to it I do naturally now how to drive a stick shift I worry about getting disorientated on a motorcycle shifting Don’t want to confuse the wrong gear & ruin my transmission on my new motorcycle But yes I do plan to follow through at some point Because yes riding looks so much fun
robnoodle1 I was the same, I bought a CBR 600 as my first bike (yes it can ve done) and Ive loved every second of riding it. I knew how to drive manual trucks and semis (also a helicopter pilot which can confuze you if u get used to the throttle controls on a helicopter lol) all before i rode a motorcycle. It has no correlation, you wont mess up your bike because you shift with your foot so its all new. I wouldnt buy a new bike unless youre made of money because theres a likely chance you might drop the bike in the beginning even if youre just going 2 mph haha. Its worth it good luck
Dan I am enjoing watching your videos. Actually I am thinking of getting the licence and start exploring the roads!! Once in my life I want to have a Motorbike in my House. So this is my future plans.Recently I have passed HGV so this will be my next Goal to achieve.
i wanna practice panic stopping the most, im 100% taking the beginner msf coarse and if they impress me ill be giving them lots of money and taking every coarse they offer. but i think being able to stop fast is one of the most important skills to have, roads are dangerous and unpredictable you have to be able to stop as fast as possible. ive gotten back into riding bicycles recently and i just love slamming on the brakes sometimes when no ones around just to feel whats possible.
Looking at purchasing my first bike here soon, just got my permit and have classes scheduled. I'm watching all of your beginner videos, and I'm really enjoying them. Thanks! +Sub
My father is passing down his intruder to me. Its very very comfortable and he's gonna be,my,mentor. He's been riding since the 80s. The bike is around 800cc. We,live,in east tennesse and our roads are very wavy with alot of hills. I ride my moutain bicycle a lot. Does it feel any similar?
I think the bike setup I definitely want to do the the knobby tires I write a 77 Sportster and I'm a big guy but I've always had Sportsters I used to live in Lake Havasu I will be back I loved it keep safe
📚 Start your motorcycle journey RIGHT: www.MotorcycleBeginnersGuide.com
You think is better to buy a motorcycle first (maybe get practice) or take the class first?
Speaking of a mentor... are you willing to come to California to be me and my husband's mentor? We are new riders 🤗
Really refreshing to watch a motorcycle video without the rider screaming and flashing memes on the screen every 15 seconds.
Trent Collins and busting 120mph+ on the freeway at every opportunity.
Trent Collins *cough* walter *cough*
Zephyr *BXD
Agreed. But I'm kind of okay with CycleCruza doing it every now and then.
Trent Collins shots fired at Yammie Noob 💥 💥 💥
Just coming back 3 years later to say thank you. I started riding 3 years ago and always watched your channel. You’ve helped me a lot. In 2020 I got into a motorcycle wreck a drunk driver hit me head on and I flew 50 feet into a ditch. Got life flighted and was in the hospital for ONLY 3 DAYS! I walked out of there with a bad concussion, a broken rib and alot of road rash. 4 weeks later I got another bike and I’m still riding!!
I know what you mean about getting on a freeway at first. I finally learned how to ride at 60 years old. Once I got some practice on a 450 Honda, I bought a new Harley 1200 custom. Decided to try my first road trip, rode from NE Indiana to Central Arkansas. I was a nervous wreck when I first took off, now I love riding on the freeway.
GREAT VIDEO.
For once, no b.s, no stupid music, no f bombs, no nonsense, just encouraging, smart, concise advise.
Awesome
Yeah, but still cuss words and I HATE THAT because my kids are usually around and hear that crap.
Been riding 7 years now and I fully endorse this.
for sure bro!
Ever had any accidents?
I tried to teach myself to ride for about 2 weeks before I took the MSF course. The MSF course I took was 1 day in class, 2 days on the course for a total of three days. The difference between how I rode for the 2 weeks I taught myself ride compared to 3 days of MSF training was MASSIVE. The MSF course should be required. It's truly a life saver. Here in NH if you get a permit, your license is free once you get your MSF certificate.
Wesley Dearman same story here. There's a lot of shit that they bit me on right off the bat haha. Common sense shit mostly, like, covering the front brake while riding and looking through the turns. So glad I did it and I also met a really awesome girl in the class.
Wesley Dearman I agree. Taking the MSF helped me get rid of some bad habits I wasn't even aware I had. It should be mandatory for every noob rider.
Taking the NH course in May. Had my permit since the fall. My son highly recommended the MSF course. Did you have to retest the written part?
Its a requirement here in WA as far as im tracking. Its a great class.
MSF is required down here in RI to get your permit. Total investment for the course, permit, and license with endorsement (after permit for minimum 30days with no citations) was less than $200.
I just got my motorcycle license yesterday. I have been binge watching your videos for the past month in preparation (I also took an MSF course) and they have helped a lot, thank you!
The biggest part about downshifting smoothly is letting the clutch out slowly. I’ve seen a couple people, including me, just slamming the clutch in when I downshift. Once you get this down then learn to blip the throttle and match the revs.
EDIT - Downshifting was the hardest thing for me to learn and learning to slowly release the clutch helped me a ton.
I agree and they dont really teach it in the MSF they just tell you to pull in clutch and be in first when you stop
If you know how to rev-match by heel-toe shifting in a car, it can also be helpful to do such a technique on a bike, i.e. blip the throttle to increase the engine speed while the clutch is in so that the clutch release is less critical.
I suck at the blip... but I’ve only had a few rides... now the proud owner of my first bike... it’s amazing how much you can change in a few weeks
I thought u didn’t had to press the clutch when downshifting if the motorcycle is moving.
I am bogging the fuck out of my bike hard downshifting and braking in 1st. It's so hard shifting gears in my steel toes I need real boots
A lot of people think that wearing a jacket will be really hot, not the case as long as you are moving, my summer jacket is vented but I have never opened the zippered vents even when it was 90 degrees, with the vents closed it still gets enough air that I don't need to , now in winter time using the included liner I still feel that I need to wear something underneath because how much air goes through. In hot weather it actually helps you stay cooler, as long as you are moving...they also have vented pants and vented gloves, and most full face helmets have vents so......
lucyferina --> Vented boots are also avialable. I have a vented set of gear for hot weather, and another set for the cooler days...
Can vouch. I live in southern california so I really only need summer things, but my jacket is a rather bulky leather one, and I get asked all the time if it's really hot. Well, no, it's actually freezing cold when the weather drops below 60 lol. Vents are a huge deal.
Even though I'm an long time rider, my brother suggested to take the MSF course. Not only did I learn I had bad habits, I learned a lot of great skills, and, on top of all that I had fun. We had a great group and everyone was supportive of new riders who had no experience at all.
Tip for new riders, when practicing turns, sit as close to the center of the bike as you can. This may mean seating closer to the tank than you normally would. You have much better control in this position, sort of where the seating is on Motor Patrol ( Police bike) it may feel strange at first but you will be able to maneuver turns much better. Check out some Motor cop rodeo videos to see seating position I'm talking about. It will help you a ton when you have to do the dreaded box figure eight for the license test. Trust me on that one for controllability.
One really good advice my instructor gave me was to move to the middle of the lane when turning left. It will indicate people behind that I am indeed turning left and leave them no space to try and take over, which they sometimes do and cause an accident. Also all of this talk about different types of traffic, night riding, they are requirements during training. We have to go through all of those and polygon included before taking an exam.
Went for a 50 mile ride today. 37 yrs old, got on a motorcycle first time in my life a month ago.
Practicing is fun!
So glad I stumbled across your channel. I recently bought an 04 Road King Police after being off a bike for 10 years. You know how everyone says "Its like riding a bicycle: you never forget". WRONG! I forgot a LOT! Your channel is helping me remember and building my confidence. I can't thank you enough. Ride Safe!
Hello !!! Great channel !!!
It’s very surprising how easy it is in US to have the bike driving license…
I’m French, and here (it’s almost the same all around Europe…) it’s way more complicated :
- be older than 18yo ( you can pass your license at 16yo, but you’ll be restricted under 125cc)
- it is obligatory to go to a “driving school” : it costs around 1000€ (1100-1200 US$)
- pass a theoretical test (40 questions about rules, signs, etc…)
This test is the same than the car license, if your car license has less than 5 years, you don’t have to pass this test…
- then, with a professional instructor you will learn at first in a closed area the basis, slow exercises : slaloms, u-turns, rear brake, front brake, alone and with passenger. But also faster exercises, speed slaloms, speed braking, emergency braking, and emergency swerves. Slow and fast exercises have to be done with a time limit and different configurations of each type has to be mastered.
- you also have to learn specific items about bikes : mechanical, safety, how to ride as a group…. 40 cards to learn.
- when you instructors thinks you are ready, you can pass your first exam. It took me 10 hours of trainings (2hours each Saturday morning but I used to drive small bikes with clutch and so since I was kid…).
This first test consists in 1 slow exercise with a part with passenger, and 1 fast exercises. Of course if it is raining, the limit of time is bigger.
During this test, you will be also examined about one of the 40 cards you supposed to learn, and you also need to have an approval helmet, approval gloves and approval jacket.
- then you are allowed to continue to learn riding with your instructor but this time on the road. As I already had my car license it was mostly to learn the specific road positions, specific controls to make at an intersection, roundabout, but also line filtering, “fast” cornering….
- for me, it tooks 6 hours.
- then final test.
But !!! Since 2016, no matter your age, you’ll be limited with a bike under 48 horsepower during 2 years. So, here you have regular bikes (MT07, Tiger 900, 850GS…) that you can buy with only 48hp. After 2 years, you can “release” the engine of your bike but these bikes don’t have to have more than 95hp in regular configuration.
It could seem crazy for American people !!!!
How, and insurances are also obligatory, and companies will ask you to prove that you bought an anti-theft device….
Thanks for sharing this information - super helpful! I just completed the MSF course yesterday and recently bought my first bike. Glad I stumbled upon your You Tube channel!
Great advice Dan. After i signed up for the MSF course i bought my bike. Then once i passed the course i had the bike to start riding immediately. Riding a motorcycle is a diminishing skill, so maxing your ride time is primary.
Thank you. I haven't ridden a motorcycle yet but my interest has been growing for a long time now and everything you said in this video really resonated with me. You have a very lucid and level-headed delivery style which I think is missing on some of these motorcycle channels. Big props.
Investing in good summer gear is a game changer as you will be more comfortable longer.. I absolutely love my summer jacket. Dress for the slide not the vibe.
I just got my first motorcycle last night.. had it delivered to my house today because my only experience has been the Idaho STAR course (similar to MSR I believe) and then the test drive I went on of the bike I bought through a little neighborhood. I took a few short rides today and now have been watching a bunch of your videos. Very helpful!
You've already given me more confidence for getting ready for getting my provisional license and doing my CBT in a few months. You've earned yourself a subscriber 👍
I bought a Kawasaki Vulcan S 650 for my first bike because like you I had a friend get a bike and it made me want one. Well I will practice in my neighborhood (no course training) and I liked it but stalked constantly. This discouraged me and started thinking of selling it. This is where your 100% right about a mentor to talk to, my friend is not a very experienced rider but I have a neighbor that is and one day I seen him out about to start riding his bike. I approached him with “hey I’m thinking of selling my bike if you know anyone interested”. He began to question why and I told him about stalling so he asked to try my bike himself. Gave me some good tips and told me what I was doing wrong. Rode it around the neighborhood that day and a few days after without stalling once and truly love riding and love this bike. Gotta have a mentor for sure!!
This defiantly made me more at ease about riding a motorcycle, and these tips defiantly opened my eyes on things to do first. Thank you.
Just got a 200 CC Bike and started riding around and getting used to it. About 15 mins of riding practice I decided to call it a day and pulled up my driveway stalled out and basically dropped the bike on the right side. I almost got it lifted up using my back and arms, almost! I Pretty much threw out my back trying to lift the bike and panicked a little. How the hell am I gonna get this bike up? Just then a guy drove by stopped and asked if I needed help? Absolutely I do and he showed me how to pick it up using your back against the seat and lifting with your legs slowly. He said not to worry it happens to everyone, it’s just our pride that gets hurt and that he even dropped his Harley Something? which he says weighs almost 900 lbs. Turns out he’s a neighbor from down the block and really cool dude! As a NOOB I started having 2nd thoughts because it’s a lot harder than it looks. I wish I had a mentor, but I guess UA-cam is the next best thing and your channel has been very helpful, Thanks for sharing and teaching new riders!
Training courses are required here in Australia. You need to do a 2 day course and a multiple choice before getting your Ls. I'm so glad I did it because when I picked up my first bike, i had to take it straight on the highway to get home. Ended up stalling in the middle of a 3 way intersection, but got going again quickly and it could have been alot worse if I hadn't had that training.
Unfortunately not in West Oz...we are the ‘wait awhile’ state.👍👍
Im watching this from germany and Im only 14 years old but already obsessed with motorcycels 😂 i sometimes ride with my dad and would like to ride by myself when im old enought 😊 till Then i supose watching you Videos is all i can do 😳 thanks for the Tipps i might need them in a few years... But im afraid we dont have a msf course in germany... Well hopefully my dad will teach me everything i need to know 😉 love your Videos
julia gwald
Virgin
Nice, buddy! You will be riding in no time!
I am glad you watch this stuff to learn already, even before its time.
Good luck girl
MCRider is a good youtuber for instruction. The best youtuber I've found is Fast Eddie. Excellent instructor.
I'm very grateful that FL requires an MSF course prior to getting an endorsement. I still would take it, either way, but it's just safer if they require it.
Just started riding last month and im having a blast
That was a big help. Been riding my scooter confidently for 15 years. Riding much less after getting knoked down in a parking lot 3 years ago. Noboday was hurt, but it was a psycological effect. Used to think parking lots were safe... Thanks for all the wonderful videos.
Damn bro don’t let that get to you, when you’re on a motorcycle you have to be okay with having no safe places just how it is, bad drivers are everywhere and eventually you will always find them just learn how to anticipate, prevent and react enjoy your bike
Thanks for sharing. I still enjoy the bike.
Hey dandan my friend is my mentor too he got a bike and he recommended that I watch your videos for pointers for certain things that I need to be aware of while I ride and he also is giving me pointers on what bike I should get since I'll be a beginner rider amd just like you he said to look in a used bike so that way I wont feel as bad if and when I do lay it down so thanks for what you do dan
I’ve been trying to have a few of my friends come to mentor me. They keep saying they will but they keep standing me up. I just got my Yamaha Bolt but I live in a complex that only has a parking garage that immediately goes up or down. It’s not really flat. I’ve been kind of scared about getting the bike out or back in. But I need to get out to a parking lot. I took the MSF course but it was almost a year ago. I’m just going to go on my own tomorrow. I’ve been watching your videos again for refresher and tips. I don’t live in California anymore, where I took my MSF course. I moved back to GA.
First bike I rode is my Harley, 20 years old when I bought it and it changed my life.
How do you downshift properly?
Just bought a new bike 🏍 and I thought experience riding was a foolish move. But this video set me straight. Thanx
Yes, UA-cam is the best for getting tips on how to safely ride your motorcycle. I have learned a lot from here.
Just bought my first bike thanks for the tips! Kinda nervous but I’m def going to the class. Gonna stay in the neighborhoods and parking lots till the class is done. Stay safe brother!
nice up to date advise on this subject. my hat is off to you brother!!👍👍👍👍👍👍✌
Second day riding, first day on the actual street and going above 30 was a bit concerning.
Switching gears and actually going after stopping is where I had the most problem but Im glad Im back home unscratched.
@@TK-cl1jm Almost got run over so I decided to actually go to riding school.
@@emanuelcazarez940 Smart. Those "almosts" will help you stay alert, no doubt! Have fun!
I have been on bikes with gears and plenty of power but I don’t have a license or a bike and I am starting to think about moving to a bike because it’s so much fun
great tips man. as a dutchman the practicing is very different. here in the Netherlands you go to a driving school, you do a lesson program. this is all mandatory. so we all get to practice the u turns and the swerving and things like that. love your content Dan. I just subscribed today. keep up the awesome vids
Hier in belgie kan je met een 125cc rijden met autorijbewijs... dus dan leer je niets
Speaks about safety and rides with one hand. Nice.
I did the Harley rider ed course and it was 3 days. it was a fantastic experience even though i wrecked one hard, but i learned so much and within 3 months of the course i went from a 800 suzuki to a 1800 m109r Suzuki. highly recommend it.
I've been riding for 5 weeks now. Your videos have really helped me learn in a safe manner. I appreciate your positivity!... Rubber side down.
I’m binge watching your videos I’m doing my cbt tomorrow
Cool video. Thank you for not being condescending.
Just finished the MSF motorcycle safety course today (was a weekend course) and I had never operated a motorcycle before yesterday and when I say that course was amazing! I’m taking the M3 course next weekend because I eventually want a trike. For now, I’m ready to purchase a small starter bike but wasn’t sure what to do next and your video has reaallyyy helped me!!
Did you pass? Were you embarrassed not having any experience?
Riding for 6 years and still refreshing to have a chill rider help reinforce. If you think you know everything, you are mistaken. Learn, learn and then relearn.
Got my motorbike. Had some lessons from my mate. Now waiting to do my CBT
Dude Ive been thinking about getting a motorcycle and this video makes me want one soooo much. I turn 18 in a few months and my entire family rides so Theyve been teaching me and I was scared now I saw this and im good now thank you!
You ride already?
xdeadcheapx928 nah, I ended up having knee surgery and couldn’t so I’m saving up for a triump street scrambler
Just to add if your in an area where the MSF courses are not free Harley gives discounts to military active or former and to all first reponders (cops, fireman, ems) as well as the spouse.
Cave Troll gay
Here in France you must take 20 hours of riding course before being allowed to pass the permit test, plus you're not allowed to practice on you own off-class. Then you have to pass three tests to get your license : one theorical test about safety and accidents data, one off-road, and one on-road. Cost of the whole process is about 1500$ and failure is about 50% on your first attempt. I passed it a year ago and have been ridden ever since but I still have the feeling I don't know much about riding.
The US has always been more of a freedom/responsability kind of country and I like it but when it comes to riding motorcycles I wonder if it's a good thing. Hopefully lots of riders practice regularly like you do cause if not I would be afraid to ride in the US to be honest - which I'm actually about to do next Spring!
Thanks for the nice video, you got one more suscriber from Paris.
Yeah the rules are pretty lax around here. My MSF course was $350 with 10 hours of riding. I often read comments from new riders saying they have trouble staling when the light turns green. I'm getting my first motorcycle tomorrow (or the day after tomorrow) and I don't even plan on going anywhere near traffic light intersections until I become competent at using the friction zone and not stalling.
@@robertherrick6703 $350? I thought they are $100.
@@NickVetter It depends on where you go. It's free in Pennsylvania.
Keeping two hand on the handlebars is a good tip too ...
Really great video and great advice. The only thing I noticed was not stopping at the stop sign in the beginning. Just another really great practice is to start and stop a lot.
I just graduated the Harley Davidson course at longhorn Harley Davidson in grand prairie tx on nov 23 and im glad i took it being a new rider
I'm in arizona too! I just got my ktm duke. Im loving it. Didnt take a course. But I have someone close to me teaching me . I might still take one. I got my permit for now.
Sir;
Love your channel but I recommend you take an MSF course! And then the BRC2 and perhaps the sports bike rider msf course if u have a sports bike! They are fantastic tools! Also you cam mentioned than issurance companies give you a discount if you have taken the course and if you are an msf instructor!
Nice video, Dan. It's refreshing to see someone helping the rider community, looking forward to other vlogs from you
Awesome video! Wish I saw this a year ago when I started riding haha.
Had to fall a few times to learn the essential stuff.
Ride safe!
I appreciate your videos man. They help out ALOT. :)
sometimes i load my backpack with my handtools for work and sometimes i load up all my fishing gear in it. the trick is to have it cinched up and tight but also resting on the seat. :)though im on a grom. but it helps to keep all the weight from being only on your back. i live around pretty heavy traffic so it comes with its own drama but i love the grom. i wasnt allowed motorcycles as a kid. so i just rode my friends dirt bikes here and there or borrowed one here and there when i could growing up. but then you hear everyone hating on bikes... so i was nervous af before i first rode with traffic but then after 5 min i was like wtf was i nervous for.. i havent ridden a dirtbike for years though and i just needed cheap transport and i know if i got a fast bike i would prob be riding it too hard so the grom is perfect for me cant get me in too much trouble yet i can still do whatever i want when i want. ive taken it to the valley and other cities already luckily here in cali there is tons of old side streets that connect everywhere along with the freeways so ya i like it. i actually made better time with the grom then a car going side streets on grom vs freeway with car. lol. traffic man. really only one thing bothers me about the grom is the asshole wannabe car/truck racers who try to race my grom... shits annoying and funny to me.
The MSF is highly recommended for beginners.
Watching Dan. Moto Jitsu, Ryan "Fort Nine," Yammie Noob, and others can give you pointers on things like clutching, front & rear brake usage, how to RELAX your arms and grip, WHY you need this or that kind of gear, why people like or dislike various kinds of bikes, and what to EXPECT, from them, and, things like RACKS, for better strapping-down the stuff you're needing to carry, and things like that. They ALSO teach you dumb stuff to AVOID , and simple habits that can make things SAFER which you MIGHT not think-of. Having picked-up on how to easily become familiar with the "friction-zone" on the clutch lever, WHY you put your left foot-down, WHY you shift into First Gear, at a stop, how and why you GRADUALLY apply braking, and so-on allow you to make more progress, faster, during a motorcycle training course. There's a lot to learn, so the more you can glean from the GOOD UA-cam videos, the more you'll have out-of-the-way, so that you can absorb more during the class time, whether in the classroom, or out on the range, actually ON the bikes. See the beginners guide link, below, so that you're starting-off RIGHT, instead of having to unlearn bad habits.
Great video as usual, Dan!
Love the channel, it's really helped me a lot. I've ridden dirt bikes, mini bikes, etc. in the past but recently I've decided to make the commitment to learn to ride on the street. I'm taking my MSF course this weekend, can't wait!
Just bought my 1st bike over the weekend, it’s an HD Night Rod Special, I have never been on a bike....... thanks for the tips.
How is it going?
I'm ready for my first bike.
Do it now
Don't grab a handful of break, learnt that about 10m after I got on my first bike. If I wasn't wearing a helmet, I would have been a splat on the road. There u have two tips right there.
Your videos are helping me so much. I really appreciate your content
I bought a used 750 sport bike and rode it home on the interstate with no experience. I was young and stupid, but I made it. After that, tons of practice in my neighborhood with lots of circles and figure 8's in a parking lot.
Thanks dude. You helped a lot, you're outfit looks cool, and you seem like a good person. Subscribed.
I got it backwards..I hopped on the highway the first day I got my bike...more due to need than want. Had to go to work that day and I had no other vehicle..wonderful experience. Learned to tuck that day. 😭😂
I’m in Arizona too and I’m taking a class in November currently don’t have a bike but know what I want I was a 07 and up road king because I wanna travel I wanna cruise and I have goals and I’m so happy I found you’re Channel because your from here so I get so much out of your content!!
What course do you recommend? For my endorsement I was going to do GCC with TEAM
I have gotten the commitment for buying a bike today as I have someone in the next town over that is going to sell me a 2018 Yamaha r3 320 in about 2 months after the end of June. It is a done deal now. Just have to finsih putting the 4000CAD together.
This video is very helpful, I just just passed my permit test yesterday and as soon as I get my income tax I’m buying a bike. I’m really excited to get out on the bike. Thank you for putting out a great video like this.
Here in the uk you have a take a compulsory basic training test (one day course) and you can only get a 125cc bike until you take you full bike test and once you passed you can get a higher cc bike
Great video. Thanks for the tips.
Yup i'm saving up the money for the 4 hour class the bike and the gear :-) it will be a 125 cc I can go for the full license but wanna start small
@@TK-cl1jm Honda CB125R
Some great tips man appreciate the content!
4:22 I'm talkin myself into it. Looks like a great hobby.
Same
I feel way more confident now thanks dan
I miss Tucson because of the practically year round riding season.
This is highly useful advice for a new rider.
I just found out your channel....i'm from switzerland and i am learning right now, really cool video dude, you give me lot of motivation! Subscribed for sure!
Doing my license here in Norway and it’s crazy the difference to the US 😅
Good advice ever
Great work again. Appreciate your insight and broad topics you cover.
Very helpful man you should be a bike teacher you got a nice way of talking. Lots of good info but not shoving it down your throat. Solid vid!
Ya Dan
Always wanted to ride
But just need to commit to it
I do naturally now how to drive a stick shift
I worry about getting disorientated on a motorcycle shifting
Don’t want to confuse the wrong gear & ruin my transmission on my new motorcycle
But yes I do plan to follow through at some point
Because yes riding looks so much fun
robnoodle1 I was the same, I bought a CBR 600 as my first bike (yes it can ve done) and Ive loved every second of riding it. I knew how to drive manual trucks and semis (also a helicopter pilot which can confuze you if u get used to the throttle controls on a helicopter lol) all before i rode a motorcycle. It has no correlation, you wont mess up your bike because you shift with your foot so its all new. I wouldnt buy a new bike unless youre made of money because theres a likely chance you might drop the bike in the beginning even if youre just going 2 mph haha. Its worth it good luck
Dan I am enjoing watching your videos. Actually I am thinking of getting the licence and start exploring the roads!! Once in my life I want to have a Motorbike in my House. So this is my future plans.Recently I have passed HGV so this will be my next Goal to achieve.
Thank you 😊
Really digging the landscape! Good tips, thank you!
Thinking about getting a bike. Great video. Love the way you present the information.
i wanna practice panic stopping the most, im 100% taking the beginner msf coarse and if they impress me ill be giving them lots of money and taking every coarse they offer. but i think being able to stop fast is one of the most important skills to have, roads are dangerous and unpredictable you have to be able to stop as fast as possible. ive gotten back into riding bicycles recently and i just love slamming on the brakes sometimes when no ones around just to feel whats possible.
I'm just getting started - this is so helpful, glad I found you channel
Some good tips, especially the motorway one. Will have to try that one out. Thanks
Thanks
this was the coolest video ever i loved this man 😂. getting a bike soon
Looking at purchasing my first bike here soon, just got my permit and have classes scheduled. I'm watching all of your beginner videos, and I'm really enjoying them. Thanks! +Sub
My father is passing down his intruder to me. Its very very comfortable and he's gonna be,my,mentor. He's been riding since the 80s. The bike is around 800cc. We,live,in east tennesse and our roads are very wavy with alot of hills. I ride my moutain bicycle a lot. Does it feel any similar?
I think the bike setup I definitely want to do the the knobby tires I write a 77 Sportster and I'm a big guy but I've always had Sportsters I used to live in Lake Havasu I will be back I loved it keep safe