[Clay Dowling]

is pretty rare. In my class one lady got the boot because she couldn’t control the bike. That was really it. A couple people left because they weren’t comfortable with their ability, especially the guy who couldn’t quite get the gear shifting thing down.

I suspect that your friend who was asked to leave may have had more serious issues than they were letting on. MSF instructors don’t seem like the sort to bounce somebody because they’re slower than the pack.

[eon]

I think he did take the class, he just didn’t want to get kicked off for being slow. I also suspect there was more to it than his friend let on but you never know, I am sure there are some bad instructors out there. Probably a small minority but there must be some (there is a thread on advrider just not about an instructor advising a student to start on a 900cc bike or larger).

It sounds like bigguy is on the right track, reading the MSF literature before the class and practicing. So long as he keeps that up afterwards. In my opinion the class is just the first step towards being a safe rider. An important first step that gets you off on the right foot so to speak, but just the first step nonetheless.

[Candice]

I also had no experience on a bike and I did not know anything about shifting gears when I took the class. I also felt like I was going to fail the first couple of exercises and then it all clicked. I think my first thought when I wasn’t getting it was, can I possibly be this stupid? REALLY? Thank goodness I figured it out! My hubby would not let me ride or buy a bike until I had taken the class. His fear is that I would buy a bike, take the class, fall during the class, and then not like it. That didn’t happen so I passed the class and bought my bike, yeah! I think the MSF class is very good and everyone should take it. My brother has been riding a motorcycle for years but he is self taught, I keep trying to get him to take the class, still working on him.

[bigguybbr]

I have heard some mixed experiences of getting the boot at an MSF course. I have actually talked to my MSF instructor a few times (even thought i don’t start for a few days, he just happens to be at the practice lot, where i go to practice) He basically said the only people they really give the boot to are those who horse around in class (like over revving the engine or give the instructors attitude) My friend that got the boot may have been slow to learn, althought knowing her she could have copped an attitude and thats what sent her packing!

[Jay T]

I’d say let the “pros” show your. But IF you insist on putting that little Rebel into motion before the class I would say ONLY practice clutch control. That is start the motorcycle in neutral. Squeeze the clutch and put the motorcycle in first. Rock back on your heels. Ease the clutch out (not fully engaged) while the motorcycle pulls you forward until you are flat footed. Squeeze the clutch and rock back on your heels. Do this for a long time and you will have the smoothest start that you could imagine. The first day a lot of people suffer from stalling the motorcycle while starting off. This shows you how to control the clutch. This is the second exercise in the class. Practice just this (not moving or riding the motorcycle) before your class and you will look like a real pro.

Jay T.
http://www.ridesafe.today.com

[Jay T]

If you are a danger to yourself or the other students, you get asked to leave. If you are putting out the vibe that you really don’t want to be there but, you are not dangerous, the instructors usually let you come to them. We usually want to do it without you having an accident or getting dangerous. If you don’t think you are doing well, ask the instructor. It is the instructors job to coach and evaluate. If you ask they will evaluate and allow you to make your decision. The biggest problem the first day is to get the rider speeds up. Usually around 12-15 mph is the best learning speed. Just do what they tell you in the instructions and follow the instructors coaching. You will do great. Most people don’t practice before hand and it really isn’t necessary. The class is written for people that have balance but, have never ridden a motorcycle.

Jay T.
http://www.ridesafe.today.com

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