Motorcycle Bound: 5 Steps Toward Learning How to Ride

September 27, 2015
Story By
Kristin Cline

After waiting years to ride a motorcycle, when it finally came time to get on two wheels I had no idea on how to get started. I’m proud to say I’ve recently got my motorcycle license and am finally on my way towards two-wheeled freedom! If you’ve been thinking about getting a motorcycle license yourself, here are five simple steps to get you rolling in the right direction…

1. Take a Safety Course

Although you can get a motorcycle license without taking a safety course, not many would suggest it. While each state has their own process, in California you can either take a certified safety course OR be required to complete a driving skills test at the DMV. Rumor has it that the skills test is set up in a way to be quite difficult to pass – besides, you'd need your own bike to take it on.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) is a nationally-recognized, non-profit that offers training and is widely known, but if you’re in California the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) is responsible for state-approved motorcycle training as of 2015. The CMSP training is a 15-hour course, generally spanning a weekend, that takes you through quick basics first in a classroom and then puts you on a motorcycle (out on a course) for a majority of the time. During this training, motorcycles and helmets are provided, however, they require you to bring gloves, long sleeves or a jacket, sturdy pants and protective footwear. Structured after the Total Control Training by Lee Parks, you’ll learn everything from the dangers of motorcycling, to California riding laws, to how to build smart(er) riding techniques. My two-day course seemed like more fun than work, and I came away not only with a much more realistic picture of life-on-two-wheels but also a budding tool kit of skills to navigate roads safely. While out on the training course our class was split up into three groups of 12, each with two instructors. My crew was led by Jim and Apostal and I couldn't have asked for better instructors to help navigate us, most of whom had never ridden before (my only previous experience was Kawasaki's day-long dirt bike Learn To Ride course). We progressed from the basic operation of a motorcycle, to mental motorcycling, cornering, braking, and swerving. Finally, at the end of the weekend the skills test is given - I passed it and then eagerly awaited putting down some practice on the streets.

2. Get Your License

Before riding on public streets, you’ll need a license (or at least a permit). In California, you can get a permit by simply taking the written test. With a permit, people over the age of 21 can ride with a few restrictions: no freeways, no riding after dark, no passengers. The DMV provides a booklet with info needed to pass - but after taking the Motorcycle Training Course I didn’t even need to study... I’d learned it all in class. When you take your written motorcycle license test at the DMV, be prepared to also take a vision test and written tests for whatever other licenses you have because the DMV treats it as a renewal. After taking the written test and providing proof of passing the skills test during a motorcycle safety course, you’re almost ready to hit the road!

3. Buy Basic Safety Gear

Safety gear can get expensive, but it’s one of the most important ways to keep yourself safe while motorcycling. When you’re out in the elements, you not only need to protect yourself but also need to make yourself comfortable. I didn’t want to cheap out on equipment, but I also didn’t want to spend a fortune, so I did my research well before making buying decisions. Ask around, read reviews, find something that fits you and fits your wallet. Anticipate what elements you'll be riding in as that will affect what sort of gear you'll want.

4. Test it Out

Every experienced rider I’ve talked to has said the same thing: take baby steps. If you’re a beginning rider, don’t go out and buy the biggest bike then jump on the freeway and go. Spend time learning on streets, take short rides with a more experienced rider and build up your comfort and handling before going big.

5. Get a Bike!

Sure, some people get the bike first and do all of this later – but if you want to avoid wasting money, spend some time trying out different types of motorcycles and solidifying your decision of wanting to ride first. Every bike has a different feel and you’d be smart to try at least a few on for size before setting your heart on one. Testing bikes out is what I’m currently doing in my own motorcycling journey, and I’ll be certain that when I make the choice to purchase, it’s going to be a good one!