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If becoming a biker has been on your to-do list for a long time, accomplishing that goal takes more than just stopping by your local motorcycle shop, plopping down a credit card, popping on a motorcycle helmet and hopping on a Harley. You must first determine what your needs and wants are, where and when you will be riding, and how much you are willing to invest in your dream machine. And you must learn the rules of the road and how to safely operate a two-wheeled vehicle.

Most people learn how to drive a car when they are in high school. When a kid reaches the minimum, magical age of 15, 16, 17 or 18, that birthday is traditionally celebrated with a visit to the local Department of Motor Vehicles for a driving test and, hopefully, a license.

Although some people may go to the DMV seeking a motorcycle license, most are not prepared to don a carbon fiber helmet and roar away on only two wheels. Most people get comfortable with four-wheeled vehicles before moving to two-wheeled transportation.

“But, I want to ride a motorcycle!” you say? Then you are part of a very small minority who make their first trip to the DMV with that license in mind. The fact is many states require Driver’s Ed classes before they’ll even consider issuing a motorcycle learner’s or instruction permit, let alone a license or endorsement. The first step in getting one is usually in a classroom, especially for young drivers. In addition to class time, license seekers must pass tests that may include a vision test, as well as written tests for traffic sign recognition, and safe motorcycle operation. Finally, an on-road test, wearing proper safety gear, including a carbon fiber helmet, will show the examiner that you’ve mastered the skills necessary to obtain that two-wheel license.

For young riders, most states require formal instruction through an accredited program. The number of in-class, and on-cycle hours may vary, but these programs are all designed to prepare young riders for the road: basic traffic knowledge, special skills for operating a motorcycle, correct use of safety gear, such as a carbon fiber helmet, and additional knowledge to get along safely with four-wheelers.

Adults already experienced behind the wheel who want to learn to ride, can fulfill their dream by attending one of the hundreds of riding schools throughout North America. Courses will vary in cost, and duration. One may require a Driver’s Ed refresher, before advancing to motorcycle skills, and even specialized training for the advanced rider. There are also refresher courses for those who have been out of the saddle a while, and only need to bring their skills up to today’s motorcycle technology. Most schools can provide students with a bike, and a carbon fiber helmet for use during the road test.

Before choosing a particular course, consider where you’ll be riding. On-road biking will require the necessary skills to deal with automobiles that may not be watching for two-wheeled vehicles. Off-road riding will require skills such as the safe way to dodge wildlife that is not expecting two-wheelers, as well as how to select proper tire inflation for various terrain. In either case, make sure a class in safety, and selecting a correctly fitted carbon fiber helmet is part of the syllabus.

A small investment of time, and a bit of additional money, will ensure your time on two wheels is everything you dreamed it would be. A carbon fiber helmet will protect your head, but the knowledge gained from professional instruction will help protect you from other bumps on your way to becoming a biker.

Tags: Auto Tips

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