When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
When I got my Harley it was my biggest bike and had been off one so long that back then you did not need a separate license . VA DMV test area is small. I measured it one Sunday since they would not let you practice on it. Marked it with chalk on my dead end circle and practiced it for two weeks. When I first started I was surprised how bad I was on it. In two weeks I aced the test. Probably why ever one should take a class. I have heard others say its impossible on a big bike but its not.
Last edited by Jackie Paper; Jan 3, 2011 at 03:40 PM.
Took mine back in 80 in a small town in Northern Alberta - examiner came once a week to the community centre. They said to ride around the block (out of sight) and I think if you made it back in one piece then you passed the skill test.
I've gone through the course on every street bike I've ever owned. When I first get a bike I practice until I can do it without missing any points. I practice slow speed maneuvers regularly and have fun doing it.
The DMV course is easier on an Ultra than it is on a crotch rocket.
If it is just to get your license don't worry too much, you are allowed to miss a few points.
I know this is a dumb question, but what is an MSF course, and where do you go to take it.
My State VA gives it in place of the driving part of the test. You do the written to get the permit to take you add on for you regular car permit and for about $70 you have a few hours of class and a few on a small 250 motorcycle on a large parking lot road course. Pass and you do not need to take driving part at DMV. Also gets 10-15% on your insurance from most providers. There was a waiting list in the summer and by the time I was near I had passed and never took it. Friend of my took it and gave it thumbs up. He said he saw a lot of spills. Contact you local DMV for info.
Last edited by Jackie Paper; Jan 3, 2011 at 05:42 PM.
I took the California test on a KZ550. That was back in the early 80's. I've since taken the MSF course as a refresher. If my choise was the MSF class or my Road King at the DMV, I'd take the MSF class.
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Slideshow: The bar-and-shield logo shows up on far more than motorcycles, some of the company's most unexpected products have nothing to do with riding.
Slideshow: From the troubled AMF years to modern misfires, these bikes earned reputations for reliability issues, questionable engineering, or disappointing performance.
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Slideshow: The Swiss custom shop has taken a Harley Softail and stretched it into something so long and low that it looks closer to a rolling sculpture than a conventional motorcycle.
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Slideshow: A standard cruiser becomes an intricate metal canvas in the hands of a Swiss custom house known for pushing Harley-Davidson platforms far beyond their factory brief.
Slideshow: Harley-Davidson's challenges aren't abstract; they show up in dropping shipments, shrinking dealer traffic, and strategic decisions that aren't yet translating into growth.