I have been mulling around the idea of getting a sport bike. I have always wanted one, but the only thing that holds me back is the safety issue. I work in the ER, and I see lots of injuries (I also know there are alot of jackasses out there). I am taking a motorcycle safety course this summer. It will actually be the first time I have ridden a bike. I think I will really enjoy riding, though I hate to admit it, I am scared a bit. Any words of encouragement? How long did it take you guys to feel comfortable on your bikes?

 

Rode for a few months before I took MSF, basically self taught on a new yzf600r. Dropped the bike twice practicing small circles(thank you frame sliders) in parking lot and stalled a few times at lights but that's it. Got the basics down but MSF really helped. Mix of experienced and newbies at the course and at the end, you couldn't tell the newbies from experienced riders. Got rid of my 600 since I was refinancing my house but planned on getting another bike once refi was done. After a week of not riding, I had withdrawals and went out and bought a monster 750. It took me about 9 months to really get comfortable. I commute to work on my bike and ride the twisties weekend mornings so yeah I got hooked and there's nothing else like it. 40-45 miles a gallon doesn't hurt it either.

 

#1- don't be afraid of your bike. Respect it but don't be afraid. Sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders. Taking the MSF course will help a lot, IMO it helps a little more if have at least a couple hours of seat time under your belt. It will take you a while to get really comfortable, but as long as you ride within your limits, you'll be fine. Have fun man, once you ride, it's hard not to find exscuses to do it.

 

crockey, props for having the right attitude and for doing the right thing from the start. Good Luck.

 

go ahead take it but find an instructor sympathetic to sportbikes.

there are a few books on the subject "Twist ofthe Wrist 2" is the standard but there are better

if you have a local race organization they may do instruction for an afternoon

you can choose to hang back on any motorcycle and keep within your skills. you think your fast till you see some peeps at the track. reserve money for alot of gear if safety is a concern.

 

I'm an MSF instructor. I'd suggest taking the class before you go out and spend money on a bike. Who knows you may not enjoy riding. The BRC (Basic Rider Course) starts out with the very basics. For example, the first things you'll learn is what and where are the controls on a bike, then you'll learn how to get on a bike... then how to start it.. and so forth. The class is very low speed, and is very good at teaching how to ride a bike at very slow speeds (5-10mph). It's not hard to ride a bike 100mph, but it can be hard to do a u-turn at 4mph. If you liked the class and feel you want to persue riding, then I'd go out and get a bike you feel suits you. And don't forget to buy riding gear. Also in the BRC you'll be riding on provided bikes which are small and easy to ride, so no need to bring your own.

 

I plan on riding in full gear. It almost seems like it would be too hot to ride in the summer with all that gear on. Anyway, thanks for the help. The course I signed up for is a full weekend, Fri, Sat, Sun. I really don't know anything about the instructor, but I sent him an email introducing myself and telling him about my experience (none ). I am sure this will turn into another expensive hobby just like my S2000. And of course, when I bought the S, I planned on keeping it stock..........so much for tht

 

I did and I just passed my test today

 

Congrats.

 

You can ride in full leathers, riding boots, gauntlet gloves, and a full face helmet in 90*F heat and as long as you're moving, your good.