I took and passed the MSF class three weeks ago and since then have still had numerous application type questions in my mind that have caused a bit of pause and reluctance ; yet yesterday I just had a "damn it and do it" notion and completed my first in traffic\long ride. It was exhilerating! I believe knowledge is crucial, yet confidence is just as important, trusting skillsets and trusting the bike equal enjoyment!

 

The only way your confidence and skills will improve is to ride more. Knowledge is fine and necessary but gaining muscle memory through practice will enable you to use the bike to its potential.

 

Just take it slow and if possible, find someone with ample experience and watch and learn, ask more question. Ride like you have a target on you ... you do!!

 

Old bikers and old Pilots have a lot in common. Survival is an art form. Practice it.

 

So true! There's a left hand turn I have to do everyday coming home from work and it always gave me fits...scared me. And I used to turn like I was on ice. Now, I turn and shift going through it.

 

Accept the challenge and ride within yourself and you'll be fine.

 

Just ride. The course isn't the whole thing, it's a start for you to build on. You'll feel better and more confident with miles. Soon enough you'll be at the point where you should pull back from overconfident riding.

 

SoCal, everytime I see your bike now I want a softtail. Looks nice man. But stop posting, I can't afford another bike right now. Lol

 

Just remember speed kills. Take it slow get some miles under your belt, but most importantly realize your new and don't exceed your abilities.

 

I'm a newbie riding too....today was my 3rd day out, and rode 134 miles on two rides today. I am still not great at 90 degree turns, and I take them pretty slow. i also did an S shaped ramp at 35 miles an hour for the first time today. My husband can do it at 50, laying it side to side pretty much- that still scares me, but I'm not driving like that!

Practice really does help and don't worry about speed! don't let vehicles push you either from behind, but if you really do need to let them by, then pull off and let them go. Each trip out, I'm doing things I haven't done yet. Tonight I had to come down a very steep hill, with a stop at the end. I actually did better than I thought I would.

Point is...get out there, keep your eyes peeled, and relax and enjoy the ride!