Motorcycles

[newcigarz]

Originally Posted by Volt

On the MSF course, remember passing it just means your qualified to ride a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course.

passing also means you can get your license in Florida, kinda need to take it.

[Volt]

Originally Posted by newcigarz

passing also means you can get your license in Florida, kinda need to take it.

I ride with 3 MSF instructors, even they tell the students although thay passed the course and it will qualify as the riding portion for the State exam, don't let passing the course give you the false sense that you can ride safely on the streets. Huge difference between a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course with 2 instructors and a 6 lane interstate, 96 ci bike, and cars trying to get you. Too many leave thinking the are set for the real world with that card in hand. It's not a bad place to start, but is all it is, a start.

Originally Posted by Volt

I ride with 3 MSF instructors, even they tell the students although thay passed the course and it will qualify as the riding portion for the State exam, don't let passing the course give you the false sense that you can ride safely on the streets. Huge difference between a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course with 2 instructors and a 6 lane interstate, 96 ci bike, and cars trying to get you. Too many leave thinking the are set for the real world with that card in hand. It's not a bad place to start, but is all it is, a start.

I really want a "big boy bike" but I wasn't ready to put down the money to just see if I would like it. My 50cc scooter isn't cool but I know I want to ride so right now it gets me to and from work and I save the gas money for a real motorcycle. With the scooter since it is a 50cc I don't need the course or anything to ride. I know before I go take the course I will be ready.

[newcigarz]

Originally Posted by Volt

I ride with 3 MSF instructors, even they tell the students although thay passed the course and it will qualify as the riding portion for the State exam, don't let passing the course give you the false sense that you can ride safely on the streets. Huge difference between a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course with 2 instructors and a 6 lane interstate, 96 ci bike, and cars trying to get you. Too many leave thinking the are set for the real world with that card in hand. It's not a bad place to start, but is all it is, a start.

No doubt that riding in the real world is different. But I think the MSF does a great job.
I never rode before moving to Florida from CT. I knew that once I got here though that a motorcycle was in my future. I took the course, got my endorsement and bought a Ducati 696 the next week.
I have 9,700 miles on the clock now.

Also passing the MSF is all you need in Florida. Just take the card down to DMF pay the fee and you have your endorsement. No Exam. Plus you get a discount on insurance.

[SNKBYT]

time & experience is the best teacher
but also keeping your head on a swivel doesn't hurt either

[newcigarz]

Originally Posted by snkbyt

time & experience is the best teacher
but also keeping your head on a swivel doesn't hurt either

speaking of which, I need to spend some time riding up your way.

[SNKBYT]

Originally Posted by newcigarz

speaking of which, I need to spend some time riding up your way.

yes you do ..... its been to long buddy ..... I've got rum & cigars, come on up anytime during the week.

Originally Posted by snkbyt

but also keeping your head on a swivel doesn't hurt either

As others have said, expect people to not see you, and you'll be a lot safer.

On the highway I give myself plenty of space. In the city everytime I approach an intersection I simply assume somebody is going to blow the stop sign, blow the redlight, turn in front of me.....

Saved my ass any number of times.