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Next Monday is finally time for my Basic Rider course at my local HD dealer. Been waiting since January for it! Anybody been to one at HD? what to expect? any tips or things to bring not mentioned by the MoCo?
I have some experience on dirt bikes 10+ years ago but never ridden a road bike.
Any comments are appreciated.
Take a jacket or long sleeve shirt, gloves and, of course, helmet. You may not be required to have everything but it wouldn't hurt to have it with you.
Read the material and have fun !! These courses assume that you have no or little experience. Pay attention. There is so much more to learn in that course than I could tell you. The things that accomplished riders do that we take for granted and come naturally after years of riding are in the material. So really pay attention when reading. Listen to the instructor and remember the only dumb question is the one not asked. Have fun and enjoy the experience...it's just starting !!!
These classes are the best way to get into motorcycling. As stated pay attention and you will learn a lot. I sat and watched the riding portion of the class when a woman I was dating wanted to learn how to ride. I was impressed with all they covered and what they focused on. The one she took even made them drive over 2X4's and do evasive moves. There is a lot more to some of the classes then just teaching the basics to get your license.
This may sound crazy, but hope for rain. Some people get scared to death when they get caught in the rain their first time. Learning how to handle the bike at slow speeds on wet pavement can really help later on while out in the wild. Go in with an open mind and you will certainly get a lot out of it. Have fun and be safe.
All of the above & make sure you have boots that cover the ankle portion of your foot or you may not be allowed to participate. You should have been sent a list of required items.
Sunglasses, some water to drink, sunscreen for your face & neck
Make sure your tires have the required amount of air or +2 psi extra (you can thank me later).
Listen to your rider coach in the classroom and on the tarmac. Relax & enjoy the course.
Keep repeating to yourself: "REALLY turn your head in turns (towards the direction you are turning)" (this was hard for me to learn and I still have to remind myself to do it in tight u-turns). You go where you look...
If it's at HD, you'll probably use their bikes (small ~500cc with large crash engine guards). Some other classes have a bunch of different brands of small bikes and, if so, I think one should consider taking advantage and try as many different ones as possible (rather than ride the same bike for the whole class).
Bring a notebook and pen to take notes and listen to the instructors. Lots of good information in the class.
Gloves, long-sleeve shirt or jacket, helmet, boots or shoes that cover the ankle. Maybe sunglasses.
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