[eon]

WA DOL has put together some videos showing what you need to do on your bike test. Nothing earth shattering here but for new riders this might be interesting.

[eon]

I like the fact they are reaching out online to educate people. I know this Steve Sheppard guy monitors local forums here and answers DOL type questions (although he is sometimes a bit abrasive).

[gsmurfette]

I’m taking the MSF class this weekend in Port Angeles, and now I know what I need to work on. I don’t have a parking lot anywhere near me, which sucks. I also wish that they allowed you to take you own bike to the beginner course. I’m a MSF book that I have, it says something to the effect of that your bike is like your toothbrush, and you should treat it like that. Now I have to go take a class on a bike that I don’t even know what it is….I know everyone has to do it, but still, I think that if you have a bike, and have a way to transport it, and the proper documentation, that you should be allowed to bring your own bike. It’s my bike, if I drop it, I drop it. I have once already. A few more scratches won’t hurt. lol. I haven’t been going fast enough when I’ve been practicing my stuff……..well, good night all!

[eon]

Be aware that the MSF test differs from the DOL test. I think the MSF test is standardized across the country whereas each state has its own test. The principles are the same though. But don’t focus on the test, just listen to what they say and practice each exercise and the test will come naturally.

And unless your class provider has beat up bikes, I think it is better to use theirs. You spend a lot of time sitting idling in the class, waiting in line to do your exercise. Better to put the wear and tear on their bike IMO. Plus you also get a chance to ride something different.

[Clay Dowling]

In MSF class we did the cone weave for fun, kind of a way to relax between exercises. But with that Valkyrie it looks more nerve-wracking than fun. Now I’ve got to go out and practice it on my bike, just to see if I can still do it. And set up a u-turn box and a tight turn box. I don’t remember the tight turns being particularly hard, but in that video it felt like trying to stuff an elephant into a phone booth.

[Author]

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