Is it a good idea to take a motorcycle driving class

Question

Harley Davidson dealerships offers driving classes for motorcycles for $275. Is this a waste of money or is it a good idea? They provide the motorcycle but not the helmet and gloves. Is there any other places that offers classes like this for cheaper in the state of NE? I don't know anyone who rides a motorcycle to teach me. What do I get if I take this class other than the know-how?

Answer 1

h**l no! do u drive a car? it is allmost similar. het ur hands on an old bike try to ride it. all of ur have rode bycicles hope u have too. if no, then be reaby for some cuts & bruises. just buy a hellmate, jacket and gloves. belive me it's worth it.

remember, 4 wheels move your body, 2 wheels move your soul.

Answer 2

I live in NE. The cost of the MSF class is in the $185-$200 range now.

MSF in NE provides the bike and you have to supply the helmet, gloves,eye protection, long pants and a shoe which covers the ankle.

The class is very good for beginners and experienced riders. They teach you as if you have never ridden a bike before.

They are most likely booked up for the rest of the year though, but It never hurts to check to know for sure.

Answer 3

Motorcycle Safety Foundation courses approved by the state are going to be your best bet. May not be the cheapest but when you look at the fact it can depend on life or death it's worth the little extra cost. Also if you pass the course you get a certificate that is good for a disount with some insurance companies.

http://www.msf-usa.org

Answer 4

Most states have MSF (motorcycle safety foundation) classes that the DMV promotes.  when you finish MSF you also get a license (if you already hold a permit).

They are about the same cost (depending on where you live).

Good Luck...

Answer 5

You should be able to find an msf class for much cheaper than that.  If you pass the msf class, then you can skip the driving test at the DMV and get your license.  The msf class I took only cost $81 and they provided the bike and helmet.

I could be wrong, but I don't think the Harley Davidson class will get you out of the DMV riding test, but the msf class does get you out of the riding and the written DMV tests.  

http://www.msf-usa.org/

Answer 6

The MSF course in ohio is $25, and they provide everything but clothes

Answer 7

Taking the class is a REALLY good idea.  I believe the Harley course is similar to the MSF class, but I would take the MSF basic rider class if it's available.

Harley over charges for everything.

In my area, the MSF class is taught at the local Harley dealer, but it's not the official HD class.  You have to provide your own jacket, boots, gloves and helmet.

Answer 8

If you have not ridden before a course is a very good idea. They will teach you how to ride, how to pick up the bike if you drop it, and will give you pointers on safety, passing your test and other things.

Answer 9

Ok, Ive been riding 30 years, and learned in NY (Hey, watch out !) anyway, I recently taught my wife to ride and put her through this course, They supply the bikes !. Anyway, I went with her. I now would dontate to them every year becasue I believe everybody should go through this course !

nuff said..

Answer 10

Know-how is way over rated.  Just go for it.

24. The motorcycle riders involved in accidents are essentially without training; 92% were self-taught or learned from family or friends. Motorcycle rider training experience reduces accident involvement and is related to reduced injuries in the event of accidents. (from the "Hurt Report" of 1982)

Answer 11

In Ohio, the MSF class is about $25. They provide the bike, but I believe you have to bring your own helmet, jacket, eye protection and gloves. You can get a DOT helmet for about $50 at places like AutoZone and Pep Boys.

The know-how is the big thing you get. It is this kind of information that keeps you alive if you plan on riding. You will also be able to get your MC endorsement by taking the class without having to take the test. But, wait, that's not all (thank you, Ron Popeill), You will also get a little card that you can give your insurance agent which entitles you to insurance discounts.

The Rider's Edge Course is very cool- and you get to learn to ride on a Buell Blast. The course may be more intensive than the state class, but it should be over 10x the cost. You will get all of the above- and a much heftier dent in your wallet.