Your skills are good. You ride every week. Last year you took the Basic Rider Course and this year you took the Experienced Rider Course. Turning around in the street, two-up, is a breeze. And you do your SIPDE so well, watching 12–15 seconds ahead, that you can’t remember the last time you had to do an emergency braking or swerving maneuver.

But perhaps the problem is that you are so good at avoiding using emergency maneuvers that you’re out of practice. If you ride properly, you don’t get to practice some of your skills on the street. That doesn’t mean you should let them deteriorate until the next time you take a Colorado motorcycle class.

That’s why they make parking lots. And you thought those painted yellow lines were just there to corral the cars. Their real purpose is to provide a marked area to practice so you can keep all your skills sharp—not just the ones you use every day. The same skills which degrade in a few months can be retuned in a few minutes of practice.

Quick stops are easy to practice on a good parking lot with a good surface. Bring your speed up to 15–20 mph, look at a distant object straight ahead, and squeeze the front brake while you press on the rear brake. You squeeze quickly, progressively and hard. Do not grab the front brake. If you keep the speed the same for several tries while you start braking at the same yellow line, you can measure your progress.

Now comes the fun part-swerving around an object. Recently, one study found that an expert rider could swerve as sharply on his Gold Wing as he could on a much smaller bike. You won’t believe just how quickly you can swerve. Try swerving around an eight-foot wide obstruction (tennis balls cut in half) at 15 mph. Remember, do not brake or downshift while swerving.

Once you bring these two skills up to par, it’s time to put them together. Quick stops on a curve require you to (1) straighten up before you (2) brake hard to stop. Let’s look at that order again. First press on the handlebar near the outside of the curve. (If you’re turning right, press left.) Press until the bike is completely vertical. Be sure to straighten the handlebars as the bike straightens up. Once you are straight, all your traction is available for stopping. Look at a distant object straight ahead, and quickly and progressively squeeze the front brake while you press on the rear brake.

You have just put two skills (swerving and stopping) together (but not too closely) to practice quick stops on a curve. Now you’re ready to go out and face the world again, much better prepared than when you rode into that parking lot. You’ve tuned yourself up for another few months.

#

To get additional information about Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, visit our website Colorado motorcycle class.

Motorcycle riding tips for women aren’t really any different than motorcycle riding tips for men. As a capable woman I rather resent the implication that women need special tips for all things related to the automotive world. Inferior strength and smaller size, you say? Not necessarily. In any case and for any gender; make sure that the bike you are planning on riding suits your size.

When sitting in on a motorcycle your feet should be able to be planted firmly on the ground. If you ride a bike that is too big for you, strength may well come into play since you will not to be able to properly balance the bike. A bike on a lean may require extra strength to keep it from tipping over.

All motorcycle riders should take an approved motorcycle training course. Many states require a rider to complete an approved safety course before they will issue a license. The majority of states also require a rider possess a valid drivers license before they can receive a license to ride motorcycles.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers courses for beginners and refreshers courses for seasoned riders. MSF offers 5 keys tips on their home page:

• Get trained and licensed
• Wear protective gear
• Don’t drink and drive
• Ride within your skill limits
• Take refresher courses

Don’t underestimate the need for protective gear. Wearing proper clothing while riding is absolutely essential. Seasoned riders are often overconfident and novice riders don’t know any better…yet. There are few guarantees in life, but it is guaranteed that if you ride a motorcycle you will eventually have a spill.

A DOT approved helmet is a no brainer; that is if you want to protect your brain. Personally, I am pro-choice when it comes to the helmet debate. Adults should not be forced to protect their own heads or any other body part. The law should allow an adult to make stupid choices. That said, wear a helmet at least until you can claim seasoned rider status. After that, make your own choice according to the laws in your state.

More on protective gear; the leather look. Leather didn’t become the coolest thing in biker gear because it was a fashion statement. Leather does a great job of protecting your skin when you lay down your bike. At the minimum; wear denim. Riding a motorcycle while wearing a halter top and sandals may catch plenty of eyes but it falls in the same category as not wearing a helmet.

Ride within your skill limits. There are women who were riding bikes on dirt trails when they could barely reach the ground. If you’re one those women; great, you’re ready for anything the road can throw at you. At least, your as ready as you can get… Otherwise don’t overload your behind. Don’t drive too fast, don’t corner too hard, and for heaven’s sake… don’t let anyone tell you you’re handicapped because you’re a woman!

#

Ricky Orlando’s Motorcycle school is the ideal place to learn how to ride motorcycles. Our classes appeal to novice and advanced bikers as well as covering everything in-between. Ricky’s enthusiasm and knowledge can help you learn to love your motorcycle. Contact us and start your Colorado motorcycle classes today!

To get additional information about Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, visit our website Colorado motorcycle class.

It is illegal for you to operate a motorcycle on a public street or highway in Colorado unless you have a valid Colorado motorcycle license that specifically authorizes the operation of such vehicles. The general motorcycle endorsement “M” qualifies you to ride a 2- or 3-wheel motorcycle. Colorado also issues a separate endorsement “3” that authorizes the operation of 3-wheel motorcycles, only. Low-power scooters (engine size of 50cc or less or 4476 watts or less, if electric. 40 mph max.) do not qualify as motorcycles but Colorado law requires that you have at least a basic driver’s license to operate a low-power scooter on public streets.

The State of Colorado no longer issues new “Motorcycle Only” licenses. The motorcycle endorsement will be part of a regular or CDL license, only. The “M” will no longer be issued as a separate class of license. To add a general or 3-wheel motorcycle endorsement to your existing Colorado driver’s license you must be at least 16 years of age and pass all required examinations:

• Driving record review.
• Physical aptitude review.
• Vision test.
• Pass a motorcycle written test (pass the basic written test requirements if you do not have a valid driver’s
• license).
• Pass the motorcycle operator’s driving skill test at a State Driver’s License Office or with a certified third-party tester. State Driver’s License Offices are equipped to test 2-wheel motorcycles only. If you pass a skills test on a three-wheel motorcycle, the endorsement “3” will appear on your license.
• Pay the required fees.

If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or guardian must sign an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship for you to be issued your instruction permit. You must hold your motorcycle instruction permit for 12 months and be 16 years of age before you can add the endorsement to your driver’s license. If you are between 15 and 16 years of age, you must be enrolled or have completed a Motorcycle Operator Skills Training (MOST) program, and show proof of completion, prior to receiving your instruction permit.

A motorcycle instruction permit allows you to operate a motorcycle while under the immediate, proximate supervision of an adult who is at least 21 years of age and holds a valid COLORADO license endorsed for motorcycles. If you are under the age of 18, per Colorado Revised Statute 42-2-106, if you are not riding with your MOST instructor or the parent or guardian who signed your Affidavit of Liability, you must have your parent or guardian’s permission to ride with another adult who meets the requirements of having a valid driver’s license endorsed for motorcycles.

The driving test is the most important part of the examination because it provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to drive safely. You must provide a properly registered and insured motorcycle to be used in the test. Make certain you are familiar with it and all the controls.

For drivers under 18 years of age, the DR 2324, Drive Time Log Sheet, required for a regular license, is not necessary for the addition of the M or 3 endorsement.

#

To get additional information about Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, visit our website Colorado motorcycle class.

To ride a motorcycle on the scenic roads of Colorado, to join the summer Harley-Davidson frenzy, or to challenge your sport bike skills on the steep, winding mountain passes, you need to obtain a motorcycle “M” endorsement on your current basic license. No “motorcycle only” licenses are issued.

There are essentially a couple of ways to accomplish this task.

The first is most likely the more inexpensive, but may not give you the necessary skills to take your riding to the highest levels of safety. It simply involves taking the written test at a local driver license office and then completing an on-bike skills test either at the same office (if it is a full-service facility) or through an accredited third-party company.

The second involves signing up for Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) training course. These programs are also offered by third-party instructors teaching a state-created and sanctioned curriculum.

The Basic Rider Course is generally a 15-hour program that covers all facets of the motorcycle for the beginning rider. It includes both the written and the skills tests.

Upon completion of this course you can receive an “M” class endorsement. The fees for the course vary with each company and can top $200 in some cases. But that usually means the company provides bikes and equipment for training.

Age Requirements

You need to be at least 16 years old to apply for an endorsement, but it is not entirely that simple. If you are under 18, you need to need to maintain a motorcycle instruction permit for a minimum of 12 months before attempting the upgrade.

If you are between 15 and 16, obtaining a permit requires the completion of a Motorcycle Operators Safety Training (MOST) program, which is offered by numerous third-party providers that also offer testing. It also requires the direct supervision of a qualified MSF instructor at all time when riding a motorcycle.

The under-18 crowd also needs to have a parent or guardian complete an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship in order to receive an endorsement.

The Written Test

The written exam is in a multiple-choice format and all of the material covered is gleaned from the Motorcycle Handbook.

The Operator Skills Test

If you are providing the bike for taking the test it must be registered and insured. The skills test is given on a simulated course and measures a series of handling abilities including: a sharp left turn, normal and quick stops, obstacle swerves, and cone weaves.

The motorcycle endorsement adds $2 to the basic driver license fees.

For more information contact the MSF through the Colorado Department of Transportation.

#

For more information on Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, please visit our Colorado motorcycle class informational site.

Many people use a checklist to prepare for a trip. It might include gas, tire pressure, first aid kit, et cetera. One item often missing is the condition of the rider himself. Yet the rider’s condition is at least as important as the condition of the bike.

There is a checklist which allows the rider to check out himself before every trip. Easy to remember, the list is called I’m Safe. It stands for illness, medication, stress, alcohol, fatigue and emotion. Let’s take a look at how each of these factors affects us.

• Illness

Many illnesses such as diarrhea, headache or fever can blunt our senses and affect our ability to scan aggressively for hazards or our ability to react to these hazards quickly. Recovering from an illness can do the same.

• Medication

Medication such as sleeping pills, even taken the night before, or antihistamines can make us drowsy. Antibiotics do a good job of fighting infections but also leave us fatigued for several days.

• Stress

Just before a trip is not the best time to air our problems. We will be in a much better mood after a good trip. Take time to relax before starting. Another thing to remember: don’t bring the kids.

• Alcohol

Alcohol can be summed up in a single phrase-one drink per hour. Make sure there is no alcohol in your system before you ride.

• Fatigue

Working long hours at physical labor before a trip is a sure way to start the trip with fatigue.

• Emotion

We are all aware that being angry or sad at can keep our mind off our riding, but we should know that being very happy can do the same. We need to take time to think things out before we start.

#

For more information on Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, please visit our Colorado motorcycle class informational site.

I learned to ride two ways—the hard way and the right way. I can tell you the right way is far, far better.

I was a motorcycle hater. No one loathed bikes like I did. Then my husband bought his brother’s little Yamaha 200 cc two-stroke. My husband had never ridden and the evil thing had tossed him off the back once when his brother gave him a ride.

My husband’s first effort wasn’t pretty. Remember that I hated motorcycles and was diametrically opposed to his having it. He got about four blocks from his brother’s house, with me following in the car. He had about 35 miles to go through Houston freeway traffic once he got out of the neighborhood. He kept dumping the clutch and stalling the engine. In frustration, he revved the engine and popped the clutch. The little beast was torquey and promptly popped a wheelie across the empty intersection and up into the yard across the street, where it fell over. My husband jumped up, knowing that if the bike hadn’t killed him, I was probably going to, and the bike with him. He yelled that he wasn’t hurt, but the bike was damaged. I went racing back to his brother’s house, yelling that it was Larry’s fault his brother was almost killed. Larry came running, expecting to find scattered parts of human and machine. Instead, there was a broken lever and a bent gear shift. The bike went back to Larry’s and my husband went home.

A friend kindly took Robert out on his Suzuki 380 and taught him the fundamentals. That same afternoon, Robert managed to make it home unscathed. Talk about dumb luck!

In the following two or three months, the malevolent machine, named Critter, managed to pop a weld in the header, almost deafening him before it was fixed, foul its plugs, and toss him into the road and smashing its new windshield when he hit a patch of ice.

Critter soon had a big brother, an magnificent 1978 Yamaha XS 11, macho maroon in color. It was a big 4-stroke and I was instantly in love. Robert had never carried a passenger, but we were too dumb to realize how much experience is needed.

I inherited Critter. Robert moved the bike into the street in front of our house and I got on. At least I knew to wear a helmet and long pants. He walked beside me as I made tiny progress. Then he ran beside me. At least we weren’t dumb enough to have him on the back of the bike as some people do. I got independent and took off and left him. When I got to the end of the block, I confused the brake and the clutch and ran into the intersection. A car was coming and the woman slammed on her brakes. She had no front bumper and the huge “crashbars” got caught on the bumper mount, pulling me and the bike against the car. She said some things I richly deserved and I profusely apologized. We gave her $20 for the broken bumper mount and I walked the bike back home, limping from the huge bump and technicolor bruise that immediately formed. It was not a propitious start to riding.

I managed to get a little better in the following days and thought I was flying when I hit 20 mph. My husband finally coaxed me to venture out of the neighborhood onto a back road. He said it would be a lot easier and more fun.

There was only one small problem. There was a slight slope onto the main road. I couldn’t coordinate brake, clutch, and throttle to get started. I sat there for an hour and a half. Traffic was backed up to the back of the subdivision and horns were honking angrily. Some whipped around me. I covered the tank with tears of frustration.

The gods of motorcycling must have taken pity on me, because I finally got out onto the road. Wheee! I was roaring along at about 30 when a car passed me. It scared me to death.

I finally got the hang of it and we made jaunts of about 150 miles with the friend who taught Robert the basics.

We had an accident on the XS 11 because of inexperience and lack of knowledge. Some cosmetic damage to the bike and a broken wrist for me. Robert was on the front, and took the pockets out of his pants. We were very, very lucky that time. We both got back to riding.

Critter continued its evil ways, throwing its chain and flattening a tire. Then, in 1980, Yamaha created the Maxim, and I was in love! I got one of the first in the city. I put a color matched full fairing on it and went out to play with the big boys. It made my heart smile.

The third day I had it, I was making a right-hand turn when the truck in front of me stopped abruptly. I was already leaned to the right and the ground sloped away, so down I went. No damage to me, but there was a tiny scratch on my tank and one on the brake lever. I was crying and swearing at the same time.

Sometime in 1981, I really learned to ride, and so did Robert. We took a class. I’d like to tell you what we learned, but it’s far too much to put here. We realized a lot of what we were doing was wrong, and there was a lot we just plain didn’t know. What we learned that weekend saved my life on the way home that night. A car pulled out of a crossover which is in front of a beer joint. Without what I’d learned, I would have hit him. As it was, I simply made a safe stop and let him go on his way.

Later that year, we happened to meet one of our instructors, who invited us to be helpers at the classes. We did, and in 1982, we became fully certified instructors. Every time we taught a class, our skills improved, too.

Then, about 15 years ago, the class was completely changed from a task-oriented one to a technique-based one. Everything students learned translated directly to any bike they rode.

Now we had a lot of the tools that had been missing. How to stop quickly on a curve, how to avoid going off a curve, how to set up for curves, how to corner correctly, how to turn from a stop, and most of all, the amazing technique of visual control. Visual control wows even experienced riders.

The motorcycle goes where you look. Robert and I have won awards for our teaching, but the real reason we teach is because we’re making safe riders and saving lives, besides making riding buddies.

I still feel the magic of seeing someone who’s never even sat on a motorcycle go from tiptoeing up to the bike as if it’s going to bite to mounting the bike with confidence and knowing they are in control and able to do a lot more than just start the engine, operate the clutch and gear shift, and apply the brakes. They know how to avoid obstacles, how to anticipate hazards, how to stop quickly, turn sharply, and avoid the problems most shown to cause accidents. They are riders, and good ones.

I had one student, 16, who came into the class saying her 250 cc scooter was way too much for her to ride. When the class was over, she dragged her parents over to my bike, mounted it, and brought it off its sidestand (I had the key in my pocket!) and told her parents she didn’t want that scooter, she wanted a real bike like mine. The joy was I know she could handle it.

The best way to ride? Take a motorcycle class. Studies have shown that 92% of accident involved riders are either self taught or taught by friends. Your friends are a garden of misinformation. Your instructors are a wealth of real knowledge. Which do you want to learn from?

#

For more information on Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, please visit our Colorado motorcycle class informational site.

Getting started – the basics

You must be aged 17 or over in order to ride to motorcycle. If you’re 16 though, you’ll be happy to know that you can ride a moped.

Firstly, and only if you are above the age of 17, you must apply for a provisional license. You can view the different motorcycle license categories here.

The next step towards owning a shiny new motorcycle license is to complete the Compulsory Basic Training course, otherwise know as a CBT. The CBT course consists of on-road and on-site riding and training and teaches basic motorcycle riding skills.

Whether you’re looking to ride a motorcycle or a moped, you must have a CBT Certificate (valid for 2 years) to be let loose on the roads! Speaking of certificates, you must keep your CBT Certificate in a safe place, as you’ll need this when it comes to takes your practical test.

Learning to ride

Before taking to the roads, make sure you have a legal learner bike and you’re fully insured. Also make sure you’ve bought or borrowed a safe helmet and some appropriate bike clothing; remember that more layers mean more protection! Also remember to add some L-plates onto the motorcycle or moped so that others are aware that you’re a learner (this is also a legal requirement!).

If you’re at this stage, you can keep coming back to our Colorado Motorcycle Class Blog and reading up on useful hints and tips for learner riders.

Test preparation

Next up is the theory test. DVDs are a very effective way to learn as you can watch real life scenarios and get to grips with various road signs.

When you pass, you can then take your Practical Test. Read through our recent practical test guide for more information.

Once you’ve passed your practical test, you’re good to go! Remember to insure yourself on a motorcycle or moped with a low engine, preferably a standard/traditional motorcycle or moped.

Advanced Rider Training

It’s worth looking into our Advanced Rider Training course; this will help you become a better and experienced rider which will thus improve your riding experiences and of course give you the knowledge to ride safer on the roads. What’s more, the completion of the Advanced Rider course will lower your insurance premiums!

#

For more information on Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, please visit our Colorado motorcycle class informational site.

Do you want to purchase you’re very first bike while having the expectation of purchasing a bike that you will actually be excited to ride? This is an open-ended question as there are so many opportunities to purchase the bike of your dreams with just a little research. Motorcycle classes is the one aspect that you can look at when figuring out what you would like to ride most.

Many motorcycle classes exist for a number of reasons. The style should fit your personality by giving you an advantage on how you like to ride. If you race motorcycles you most likely don’t want to purchase a cruiser and vice-versa. This is when it’s a good idea to know what bike is for what rider. Now is the best time to find the right class for your riding capabilities.

The sports bike is of the most purchased because of its speed and sleek style. This bike is an all round good fit when you’re not on the off road. If you want to go from one city to the next without a care in the world then a cruiser motorcycle may just fit your needs perfectly. Cruiser bikes provide a comfortable experience with an even more controlled handling while riding.

There are actually a number of exotic types of motorcycles to choose from. Depending on what country you’re in they may go by some pretty exotic names as well. Motorcycle classes are sure to hit the spot when you know which bike will fit you best. The easiest way to find this out is by looking at your surroundings and personality. A big factor does exist in your surroundings due to weather and road factors.

#

For more information on Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, please visit our Colorado motorcycle class informational site.

There is nothing more invigorating that riding on the open road on the back of a motorcycle. However, this relaxing hobby can often hold dangerous consequences. Did you know that on average, 166,000 Americans are hospitalized ever year as a result of motorcycle accidents? Almost 5,000 of those victims will die from the injuries suffered from motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle safety has never been more important.

Whether you have been riding for years or are just learning, you will soon discover you always need to be aware of everything around you. Safety is your biggest concern. Sure motorcycles have a bad reputation for being dangerous, but they are actually quite safe and very fun to ride as long as you always keep your safety in mind. When you want to ride your motorcycle safely, here are a few tips you should always keep in mind:

Always wear a helmet

No other safety tip is as important as this one. It shouldn’t matter if helmets are mandatory or not; a rider should always wear one. According to a leading Denver Motorcycle Lawyer, a helmet can prevent a huge number of injuries both small and large. If you ever find yourself in an accident involving a motorcycle, helmets reduce the seriousness of damage to the head and brain.

Make sure your helmet has a DOT label. This means it was inspected and certified to meet federal regulations. Any passenger who rides on your motorcycle with you should also wear a helmet. If they don’t, you can be held liable from any injuries suffered. Would you rather ride on the open road or sit in the office of a motorcycle accident lawyer explaining your side of the accident?

Keep awake and stay sober

Ask any Motorcycle Injury Lawyer and they can attest that drowsiness and fatigue seriously impair the reflexes and ability to react for even the most experienced bikers. Never go out riding when you are fatigued and try to take intermittent breaks from driving on longer trips. It should go without saying that alcohol and drugs should be strictly avoided when riding a motorcycle.

Wear brightly-colored, protective clothing

A motorcyclist should make a point of always wearing the correct protective gear and to be clearly visible to other motorists. Cars and trucks are much larger than motorcycles and accidents involving them can be pretty dreadful. Riders are ejected and can skid along the road and such. Without protective leather clothes or boots, objects like rocks and glass can pierce and embed the flesh.

Follow all traffic laws

A significant number of motorcycle riders are driving without licenses or are improperly licensed according to a top rated motorcycle lawyer. Always make sure your license is current, and take care to obey the traffic laws. A regular refresh of road rules and local traffic laws is never a bad idea.

#

Have you thought about hitting the open road, cruising on the back of thundering motorcycle? There is no feeling quite like the freedom you feel when riding on a motorcycle. With the proper licensing, anyone can feel it too.

Getting your motorcycle endorsement in Colorado is a simple process. Under Colorado Department of Motor Vehicle guidelines, a person wanting to drive a motorcycle must possess a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit. There are only a few requirements you must meet. An applicant must be at least 16 years old, pass the written test at a Driver’s License office, pass the drive test at a Driver’s License office or with a 3rd-party tester and pay the fee to get the endorsement added to your license.

As in most states, Colorado will waive the mandatory skills test and directly issue you a motorcycle license if an approved basic motorcycle rider safety course is completed. These courses can be found all over and they last anywhere from two to six weeks. A typical course includes classroom instruction along with driver training in a controlled, off-street environment, usually in an empty parking lot. Once the course has been successfully completed, you are now eligible for your motorcycle driver’s license without worrying about passing the state’s road test.

Don’t overlook the importance of these classes. Most motorcycle accident injuries in Colorado can be traced back to improper motorcycle riding training. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to be involved in an accident than someone who has completed one of these courses.

Once all of these licensing requirements are met, a Class M endorsement is added to your driver’s license. However, in the end, the safe operation of a motorcycle is more important than anything else. It requires practice, knowledge, and an understanding of the limitations of the driver, the machine, and the surrounding circumstances.

How important is the proper training and education in regards to earning your motorcycle endorsement? In 2008, 39 percent of motorcycle fatalities did not have their motorcycle endorsement. Not only does this staggering statistic show that almost one in every four people killed in motorcycle accidents were not properly trained but it also shows why there has been an increase in the number of motorcycle accident claims in Colorado. Are you still thinking twice about skipping the written and road tests for motorcycle rules and safety?

If both drivers of motorcycles and cars follow by the rules of the road, everyone can all be safer on the traveling this year while also lowering the amount of motorcycle accident injuries in Colorado.

#

For more information on Colorado motorcycle training or how to get your Colorado motorcycle license, please visit our Colorado motorcycle class informational site.