Motorcycle training classes

[eltoroloco]

Has anyone taken motorcycle training classes? I'm about as new as they come to motorcycles and i'm wondering if taking the class is worth it. My bike is a xs11 80g and it is as many of you guys know, a big sunofabitch. do they offer trainging on bikes provided for the students or do i have to bring mine? my main concern is that all the money i've spent, the long hours this winter in the garage, and the appreciation i've developed for this bike will be for nothing if i wreck it my first time out.

i guess thats a bunch of questions. I'll try so summarize
What are the motorcycle training classes like?
Were they worth it?
Just how hard is it to drive an xs11 compared to other bikes?
Also i live in the rockford IL area, is anyone from around here?

[Hobbit]

MSF classes

Take the class!

I hadn't ridden in 20 years, and taking the class was a good refreasher. If you have never ridden before, you definitly the course.

The MSF course covers all basic aspects of riding and includes classroom and hand on practice. It not only helps you handle the bike, it covers how to watch out for the other people out there that affect your riding.
Around here they provide the bikes (250cc) and helmets and they are presented with very experienced riders.

The xs11 is a lot of bike and can get you in trouble real fast. Take the class.

My son and I both took the course and my wife will be taking the course in two weeks.

[buffalo]

Very much worth it... not sure how they do it where you live but in PA they supply the bikes and you get your license when you complete the course.
Try this site http://www.dot.state.il.us/cycle.html
Have fun!

[Jerry]

Take the class. Not only will you learn a lot, but in some states you will get a break on insurance. Very worth while.

Most training locations supply bikes for your use, but check to make sure.

The XS/XJ1100s are a handful to operate at low speeds, and are not the best bikes to learn on. (It can be done, though.) Besides, if one falls on you, it can hurt.... Given that, they are not harder to ride than any other 560 pound motorcycle.

The classes include instruction in proper use of brakes, counter-steering, riding techniques ( try to go through intersections with a 'buddy' vehicle) and so offer both practical how-to and "awareness" instruction.

I used to live in southern Wisconsin, went down through Rockford a few times but don't know anyone in the area........

[POOLBOY]

LOCO in Rockford

Howdee.I am just north of Rockford, in Machesney Park.
On the beautiful Rock River.
My XS will be ready by this spring, I hope.
Let's get together.
Bob

[chad3971]

I live in Peoria IL, a long haul for you...but I know Illinois Central College offers the Motorcycle Saftey.They provide a little 250 honda to ride, you do get the basic concept of riding. From what my friends tell me its a pretty easy class. It is also very hard to get into because it books so quickly. I think it's $20 and you get that back when you finish the class. I know that you can go straight down to the DMV and get your license W/O taking the test there. Lots of luck...may be we can get together a ride.

[Pat Kelly]

My wife took the course here in CA last month. Class provided the bike to ride. Completeing the course got her a MC license with no driving test, just the written portion.
They offered her and me jobs as instructors.

[mitch]

Chad

Chad ya gotta change that avatar, i cant think straight lol, very nice .....MITCH

[justyn.smith]

I can't think of anything more valuable for anyone thinking of riding a motorcycle than to go to a class where experienced riders teach you in a safe environment the things you can only learn otherwise by landing in hospital (if you are lucky!).

If anyone were to suggest that they are a good enough rider that they don't need to take the class, I would be inclined to encourage them to sell their bikes, they have the wrong attitude. In the class I went to (Honda Australia Rider Training) there were riders who had been riding for more than 30 years who went every so often just to be sure they weren't developing bad habits, and to pass on experiene to the group.

The wisest thing you have ever done regarding motorcycle riding is to consider one of these classes..... the second was to choose the best bike on the road! May you enjoy many years of safe, pleasurable riding.

[eltoroloco]

Rock valley community college offers the training course, so does NIU in dekalb. I'll call RVC to get some dates of the classes. I'll post the info for anyone in the area.

the class sounds like somthing worth while for a new rider. The weather was amazing this weekend, too bad i was waiting on parts from the dealer. was hoping to putt around the neighborhood in first gear.

Also for anyone in the area who may be looking for a very knowledgeable and helpful dealer you need to talk to Jason at Beloit Wisconsin, honda/yamaha/suzuki on Whipple dr. off 213 The staff there is great, prices suck though. (as does all dealers prices)

thanks for the advice.

[POOLBOY]

Hey,LOCO.I am in Rockford.We gonna ride??

B4 The summer is out??

[sam_cg_cook]

I would recommend taking a class. There are usually 2 kinds:

"rider" courses, where you are taught on a trainer bike.

and safety courses, which some states mandate that you have, prior to licensure... Maine, for instance.

I took the safety course, because I could not find a rider course that was "reasonably" priced, or local to the sticks of Rockland, ME. I found it informative and useful for gaining my license, as well as a good way for a newbie to meet some other local biker-types.

THAT SAID... the XS1100 was my first bike. I figured that being 6'3" and 200lbs, I would quickly outgrow a smaller bike, and/or generally be displeased with one.

I have to say, I was veerrrry lucky. This bike was a bit more than I could chew at first... but slowly learned to ride it in a way that wouldn't find me dead, fast. Once I was fully comortable with it, about 2 months later... I started to see what it could do, and was pleased to note that it more than met my needs...

Good luck, be safe, and enjoy your bike!