Your question about "How many lanes are there within a single lane?" Your answer was 3. That is true most of the time, but it is NOT true all the time. Example: The center of the driving lane is the place where most oil falls from cars and trucks, and accumulates on the highway. When it is raining, this is NOT a good lane in which to be.....especially during the first 20 minutes of a rainfall.
I ride on whatever part of the road I deem to be safest at the moment. This has meant shoulder or center turn lane on occasion, factoring in that certain movements may confuse other motorists and cause them to behave differently.
Back in 2000, I took the safety course in Michigan and it poured rain both days. On Sunday we were following each other's wakes across the parking lot. Needless to say, we're not afraid of wet conditions!
I was fortunate enough to be able to use the only scooter available at the MSF course offered nearest to home about 5 or 6 years ago. Gas prices were making my 60 daily round trip commute counter productive to earning a living, so I looked into motorized two-wheeled options. Neuropathy in my left foot made me leery of changing gears on a traditional motorcycle, so I looked into scooters. Craig's list had a 2009 Kymco Grandvista 250 that was being sold by one of my former students. A mid-50's complete newbie, I signed up for the course, but it was late in the season. Turns out my class was canceled due to low head count; nevertheless after reading the state manual, watching several TH-cam videos, and talking with the seller, I was able to pass the written test and thought--with some practice--I could take on the road test. So, I bought the Kymco and on my first attempt to ride it around in our yard and on our driveway, proceeded to drop the scooter and crack a rib. So, when the MSF-affiliated Central Jersey Rider Training Course resumed the following spring, I was one of the first to sign up. The only peron who did not pass was a fellow who had brought his own motorcycle, which turned out to be too big for him to control sufficiently during the road skills evaluation. Even now, I am grateful for what I learned in the course and believe there are lots of skills I still need to practice. So, count me in the list of MSF fans. (And don't forget: all the gear, all the time.) PS: Great videos!
Wow! 😳 I am so glad you ended up a-ok, and your persistence is admirable!! Are you still riding the 09 Kymco? And you got that right ATGATT!! ❤️ 🧥 🪖 🧤 🥾 👓
There are actually two main causes of the crash. First is following too close. Second is only using one break. A possible third cause is being distracted. The lack of break lights on the camper is of course a contributing factor. As for your questions, I didn't miss any of them. I have been riding mopeds, scooters, and motorcycles for over forty years. I actually prefer scooters. Currently I don't have a motorcycle endorsement. I have two 49cc scooters, that I ride a lot. I have two so I can go riding with friends that don't own scooters. A motorcycle license is not required for 49cc scooters where I live. I do take friends that haven't ridden scooters before out to a large open parking lot to teach them how to ride the scooters before I let them ride them on the road.
I was a newbie the first time I took the course myself. That weekend was the first time I rode a motorcycle ever. I made the mistake of wearing steel toe boots so I couldn’t feel the shifter and messed up the entire first day of riding. I didn’t pass, but four years later I got the bug again, but this time practiced with a rented scooter, read safety books and joined a few forums. I passed when I took the course again at the top of my class. Gear shifting and the clutch were the hardest parts for me, but I learned that getting the bike into 2nd gear as soon as possible added stability to it. And then just look into your turns, especially when doing a figure 8 or U-turn. Great questions. Refreshers are always good. All riders take some responsibility for a crash because it is their job to try and manage all of the factors to may lead to one. Despite the failures on the camper’s part the rider should have applied both of their brakes to slow their bike (70% of their stopping power is in the front brake). It should have allowed for more control in an emergency stop, and hopefully stopped the rear brakes from locking up.
Excellent video. I passed the skills test at dmv on monday in California now I have my M1 and can finally ride at night and on the freeway. . Down the line I will sign up for an msf course. Keep making videos, they are great.
Congrats on the freedom!! The pressure to pass a DMV course has got to be high, so I imagine you’re extra relieved on the other side of it!! Thanks for the support! I love the scooter convos, so I’ll keep learning to talk here! 😂
Well, I got my motorcycle endorsement back in 1974. There was a motorcycle handbook by the DOT that you had to study to past the written exam. After passing that you was scheduled for the riding test which lasted maybe 2 minutes. But I had off road riding experience of a few years so that was not a problem. Over the years I read motorcycle articles in the motorcycle magazines on safe riding which were some of the basics of the riding course of today. My wife went through the safety course back in 2005 which on passing you got a certificate for the riding part of the test. She had to still pass the DOT written test. Then you got your endorsement. I knew the answer to you question. My main problem now is age with arthritis effecting my riding now. I only ride on “good days” so to speak. Maybe once I have my hip replaced I will be able to ride more.
I got them all right. I have only ridden a few times, motorcycles. I've been looking for a scooter or small motorcycle. I live in the middle of nowhere Colorado. I totally want to take the MSF, but the nearest one is 150 miles away!
Good morning I just wanted to thank you because you are the one that taught me how to use my Center stand on my Honda Metropolitan 50cc scooter by watching your videos you really taught me a lot even though my scooter is only 50 cc's I absolutely love it and I have no regrets I put as much as 50 even more miles on it a day best investment ever made people really need to watch your videos if they're interested in riding a scooter because you get the best advice thank you again and by the way I really love your videos I learned something everyday and you are a great teacher
In the scenario at the end, it was basically the rider following too close the camper and not leaving themselves an out that would allow them to either slow down and go around the camper while it was turning, or (preferable), safely slow down to complete stop while the camper was turning. It's the same for any vehicle; doesn't matter if it's a 2, 4, 6, or even 18-wheeler (what I drive), if you tailgate, you're gonna end up kissing someone's butt whether you want to or not.
Renee, I finally got enrolled in the MSF Basic Rider Course this weekend even though it's Father's Day weekend. (My husband encouraged it actually!) Since Illinois just reopened the state for no limits on groups, they opened up the classes for more to attend. I'll let you know how it goes! (PS: I've been studying my husband's book like yours to get a jump on learning.) Keep up your great videos!
Yay!!! What a nice surprise?!?!! I just got back from vacation, ordered a replacement for what I broke on my gear, and I’ll get to recording again shortly!
Lol, I had to take the course some years back as a stipulation of my probation due to a ticket from hell. It actually turned out to be kinda fun, buddied up and had some laughs with one of the girls in the class.. Anyway, the instructors even said it's all parking lot stuff. Very little useful knowledge for real road/highway riding other than some of the basic classroom stuff. But it got the judge off my back and wasn't a total loss of a weekend.. And the cause of the crash? Multiple things, but all boiling down to the rider not paying attention and not handling his machine properly. You can never, ever, trust other people on the road to do the right thing (graveyards are full of people who had the right of way). Things like no brake lights, distracted drivers, etc.., are to be expected. Pay attention to your surroundings at all times. And learn to use the front brake. On a rear weight bias bike like a chopper style cruiser, you can get a bit more out of the rear brake, but on a standard, sport type bike, or a scooter, 95% of your braking is on the front wheel. The harder you brake, the less weight is on the rear wheel, and the more useless (and dangerous) using it becomes.
When I first got my motorcycle license in California in 1968 there was a 10 question multiple choice quiz, that's all. No riding check. No safety course. PS I got all your questions right. PPS I'm an old time Vespa rider that used to work for Piaggio.
It's so cool to hear how other folks got their license. My husband just had to take a written test of some kind. He's definitely been riding way longer than I have, but since we're very close in age it makes me feel even more newbie to have had to go through the current process. lol
Hello My Fellow Texan. Great video. I've seen your other videos and the first one I saw was "If it's safe to ride a scooter." I'm thinking of getting me a scooter myself and have started looking at scooters. I did find a MSF Training Course a few miles from my house and another Training Course way across town from me. I also learned that the two Harley Davidson stores have a MSF Training Course as well. I'll be a Newbie Scooter Rider and Owner at 39. I first thought about a scooter back in my early 20's but nothing happened. So, I'm looking into scooters again. I'm looking into a 21' Piaggio Liberty S 150CC to drive to work since I work so close and to ride around the city streets. I'm in no rush for taking the course or buying me a scooter. I just need to make sure I save for the scooter and definitely take the MSF Course. The training location on my side of town, the instructor informed me to either take the course before the Texas Summer Heat or after the Summer Heat when it gets cooler. He has had participants get dehydrated or pass out because they're not used to being in the heat all day and with wearing all the gear. So that was a good tip from that instructor. I'm also currently looking into a helmet and I have my site on a modular helmet that way I can open it when I'm at a stop and so I'm not that hot. Because as you know, the Texas Heat doesn't mess around. I'm in San Antonio and the combination of the heat & humidity is killer here. So, that's why I probably want to go with a modular helmet. What kind of helmet do you have? Do you have any suggestions on helmets? Just curious to know. I don't know anyone that rides personally, so I can't really get a good opinion from someone I know. Anyways, I've enjoyed watching your videos and I can't wait to see more. I also just Subscribe to your channel. Until the next video. Be Well.
Yeehaw! Happy to see a 'neighbor' hopping in a scooter! You've done the legwork already to know that course is brutal in the heat! They really, really stressed heat management in my June course, for sure! Thank you for your support & kind words! Just knowing you want a modular helps narrow down the choices. This is the modular closest to what my husband uses since I am not seeing his exact model. (affiliate links) imp.i104546.net/c/2499323/782962/11256?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.revzilla.com%2Fmotorcycle%2Fhjc-i90-helmet This is the one he's saving towards. imp.i104546.net/c/2499323/782962/11256?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.revzilla.com%2Fmotorcycle%2Fshoei-neotec-2-helmet I drove to Ausin's AF-1 Racing to test drive Piaggio & Vespa scooters in May, and the Liberty was smooth 150! I can't wait to hear what you think when you hop on!
As a very soon to be new rider, like next week, I was very happy and surprised that I did manage to get all of your quiz questions right. I’m also a new sub to your channel. Please do post new content. I’m always looking to learn more. Thanks in advance.
I've not taken the California motorcycle safety course. I was when I first bought my Vespa 150 lxi, so I could get my motorcycle endorsement added to my driver's license. But, I took my scooter (with no license) to the dmv and registered the vespa in my name. No problem. The dmv didn't ask for my license. So then I called my insurance. They didn't ask to see my license, but the did ask for me to bring it to them, so they could take pictures of it and put them on file. So I did. Now I had the vespa registered in my name and insurance put on my scooter. I always wore boots and jeans, never shorts or flip flops. I bought a SHOEI neo tec modular helmet and I wore gloves with the plastic armor on the knuckles. I've been riding for over 3 years like this in Central California with no issues. I have jumped on the highway a few times and ride in the slow lane, but mostly stay in the city or country roads that don't exceed 55 mph. I have even rode my vespa with a motorcycle cop, who rides a Vespa from Fresno. He asked me how long I had been riding? I told him and asked why? He said, because you're a good rider and I saw you giving out some pointers to others who might not had the same time on a scooter. All the while, no safety course and no motorcycle endorsement. I've ridden at night on MANY occasions from my home to the gym which is a 22 mile round trip. I have commuted from my home, to a dentist appointment, to work and back and it was a 70 mile ride, round trip. Now my plan is to get a Vespa 300 gts, or HPE, And when I do so... I will take the course for that. Because I will be doing more freeway travel and it will be my primary mode of transportation. Right now I mostly drive my Toyota Tacoma to work. But with the power of a Vespa 300, I will be using it more often. I mean, who knows. I may get the Vespa 300, register it and insure it like I did my 150 and just keep on scooting. Who knows.
Keep up the good work just saw all your videos marathon style. Just found the channel and looking forward to all the future videos. Hope I get scooting later this month on a Piaggio Liberty 150 just took the MSF last week . Thanks for all your hard work on the website.
Yay for taking the course, and thanks so much for the support! I love to see more people riding!! That said, putting yourself out there isn’t always easy, so you have no idea how much I appreciate your kind words!
Just found your channel. I'm a scooter newbie as well. No license yet but trying to get into a local MSF course sometime this summer through waitlisting. They have filled up quickly. I got a Suzuki Burgman 400 for my birthday and can't wait to get on the road (safely!). Good video!
@@ScooterNewbie I have to wait for the MSF course & my license to do that but I can’t wait to hop on & go on my own. It’s nice knowing you’re out there sharing your experiences and insight for all of this. Thanks!!
I stay out of that center of the lane. I know what they say about being seen by the driver ahead, but I keep my distance. So there are 2 zones within a lane and not an oily third lane.
Hi, Renee! So happy to have found your page. I live in Houston also and am thinking of selling my car/ replacing it with a scooter. Where did you take your MSF course? Love that your site had scooters for the course! All the best and thanks for sharing your experiences on here :)
Whoa! How did I miss this?! I took it at Awesome Cycles in Spring. www.awesomecycles.com/brc_curriculum.cfm Thank for the kind words, & please let me know if you have any questions. I’m not fast, but I always respond to email if you prefer.
I trained my wife at the DMV test course on weekends just because the training course required her to use one of their motorcycles. She wanted nothing to do with learning to ride a motorcycle. There was plenty of information available for me online to make this approach work.
i took the course two months ago and they let me do it on a scooter! it was a lot harder than i thought and harder than the motorcycles because there’s no friction zone to use for slow speed cone weaving! But i only got 4 points deducted!
After riding vespa scooter like px150 and px200 back in the 90s. I tell myself to get ready for scooters again when im reaching 50 yrs old in 5 years time. Had to dump away all my vmax, xt, norden and versys by then. To my preferences this are the 3 scooters im gonna buy for 3 different use (If they are still around though) 1) Suzuki burgman 200, kymco like 150 or sym combiz 125 - short distance travel. 2) yamaha ypv 400 or suzuki burgman 400 - for work purpose. 3) Honda adv 750, yamaha forza/integra 750 or suzuki executive 650 - longer highway travel. Be safe out there ya! Loves Hayliee, Australia 😘😘😘😘😘.
Ready to take course. Did you find a class with scooters at a SA location? I used to have a bike 40 years ago but would rather qualify on a scoot as that is what I intend on buying
Oklahoma requires an endorsement. Motorcycles are defined as 150cc and over. My Metropolitan is 49cc and my PCX is 149cc. Turns out that now they've added a requirement for those as well by adding in "motor-driven-cycle" which is defined as 35cc or an e-bike of 1000w. They want their money no matter what you ride.
An e-bike really surprises me. I got one of our license renewals in, and I was surprised at how high it seemed. They charge extra for the endorsement at renewal. Like do I cost the state extra simply for having the ability to ride?
I’m 19 and I just bought me a vespa sprint 150, first time I ever rode a scooter I drove it in the cold wet rain, I ended up dropping it right after driving out the lot, what a learning experience that was
I'm absolutely new to it, and feel unsecure on curving roads, and I'm so slow, ok my Vespa is 50 but still ... So I'm not in a position to go in everyday crowds on the streets ...at the same time, once I got to go....also have much of the hills, ups and downs and accommodation goes so slow. Never drove a scooter before... everyone says it will be easy and I'm not sharing that opinion . Thanks for tips in advance 🙏
i bought my scooter before i even took the course. My brother thinks the class just teaches you how not to die. when in reality it teaches you how to ride it correctly. i was told i could use my own scoooter. which is good. i want to learn to ride something that doesnt have gears.
Hi there, I really appreciate your videos! I bought a buddy 50cc Italia and although I am able to drive carefully around town but really nervous and have already signed up for a motorcycle safety course (no scooter course available in my area) I am hoping you can offer a couple of tips for turning or even better do a video! I realized that I am really struggling to make a turn from a complete stop. I have tried to employ some of the advice that is available for motorcycles but realized in no short order that it does NOT really Apply!!!! With motorcycles they recommend you lock the handles all the way to right (or left) depending on which way you want to turn, lean the bike into the turn, counterbalance by leaning your body in the opposite direction and look up in the direction that you are planning to turn and lastly you are supposed to accelerate. I did it and wound up wiping out!!! I would really appreciate if I could get some tips from another female rider. Many thanks! Deborah
Oh my gosh! I'll think through how I do it, and see if I can get a video for you. If you haven't signed up for the newsletter, please do! You can unsubscribe all you want, but I reply there faster. Comments get a little harder to find. sendfox.com/scootersfornewbies
@@ScooterNewbie I just subscribed Rene! Thank you! If you can offer any tips or a video making sharp turns from a complete stop that would be awesome!!! No one has done one for scooters and the principal of sharp turns on a motorcycle definitely DON'T work 🙄🤦😬!!!
You can take an MSF course from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation in my state of Louisiana however it will do you No Good to get your MC endorsement because my state office of motor vehicles does not recognize them as legit. In my state you Have to go through the state run program called the "Louisiana DPS Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program" and cannot use any other. This Really Sucks for me because this course is Not offered year round, but only a few times a year and only in a few cities. It's 100 bucks to take the basic course or 25 bucks if you have your own bike and can legally get it to the course.
@@ScooterNewbie I'm sure the state run course is just as good. They offer basic, intermediate and advanced. It's the basic course that's required to get your MC endorsement. I just think they saw an opportunity to make money as well as control the amount of MC riders on the road so they force you to take their course then limit the course availability. Here is the schedule for this year. Westwego is closest to me in New Orleans and that's still many miles away. As you see in this location it's only offered 3 times this year and is done for the year already. www.lsp.org/pdf/motorcycle_schedule.pdf The alternative is for me to study the official motorcycle manual they offer to pass the written test and then somehow illegally find a parking lot to practice who knows what to pass the skills test without getting caught. I only know they require figure eights for the skills test and videos found on youtube show sometimes that is the only skill they test for. Yeah, they don't make it easy at all if you cannot take the official state run course. If they offered a motorcycle learning permit like they do for cars, it would be a great help because then I could get to a parking lot legally. They don't even have next years schedule posted yet and I cannot rent a truck to take my bike to the 2 day course out of town.
That is quite ridiculous. So many folks in my class had been riding illegally, and the course cost is the only real burden I saw. I have heard they are booked for months these days, but everything is in short supply in 2021 it seems. I definitely don’t get political here, but this sounds like an opportunity to email a representative if you are so inclined! Regardless, I’m super impressed how thoughtful you are trying to be in your effort to get licensed, being safe, & legal. It sounds like a very tough spot to be in!
Michigan requires a valid driver's license to get an endorsement. As someone with a disability, I can ride a Can-Am, but need to jump through hoops. Hope to get on a trike soon, Chinese scooters are slow and questionably reliable
@@ScooterNewbie Thanks, Michigan lawmakers shot down my request at changing the law to help potential riders with a disability, so I guess I'll be doing it how everyone else does.
It’s currently $195.00 in Vermont. I’ve found most things to be more than double here from Ohio. Except salaries, of course. Not only is the cost more, but if you owe any amount of child support you can’t get a license of any kind, including a professional license!
I took the course years ago. So it’s on my drivers license in my state. Does this transfer over when you get a drivers license in another state? I guessing it does but might have to take the written test again.
I think that is a state by state thing. I’m in Texas, and as I understand it, it carries over without a test if active in your prior state. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you that it’s easy to switch!
Awesome Cycles in Spring! I have thought about taking it again for a refresher. I believe they had Honda Metropolitans when I went a few years ago. www.awesomecycles.com/
I’m a Dallasite and I have a question! 👋🏾 If you take the MSF course and use a scooter, will you get a motorcycle or scooter endorsement? I’m pretty sure the answer is motorcycle endorsement, but want to check with you since you completed yours on a scooter as well. I take my course June 23-24 and I’m drinking my water now! Lol
I am absolutely clueless about you folks that far up 45! 😂 I really had to dig to find the one I went to but call around or ask your local dealer if they are aware of any.
Your question about "How many lanes are there within a single lane?" Your answer was 3. That is true most of the time, but it is NOT true all the time. Example: The center of the driving lane is the place where most oil falls from cars and trucks, and accumulates on the highway. When it is raining, this is NOT a good lane in which to be.....especially during the first 20 minutes of a rainfall.
Touché! This is soooo true & incredibly important!
Thanks for sharing!!
It’s still a lane, it might not be the best choice lane but they still consider it a lane. If you don’t say 3 you will get it wrong on the test
I ride on whatever part of the road I deem to be safest at the moment. This has meant shoulder or center turn lane on occasion, factoring in that certain movements may confuse other motorists and cause them to behave differently.
Back in 2000, I took the safety course in Michigan and it poured rain both days. On Sunday we were following each other's wakes across the parking lot. Needless to say, we're not afraid of wet conditions!
I was fortunate enough to be able to use the only scooter available at the MSF course offered nearest to home about 5 or 6 years ago. Gas prices were making my 60 daily round trip commute counter productive to earning a living, so I looked into motorized two-wheeled options. Neuropathy in my left foot made me leery of changing gears on a traditional motorcycle, so I looked into scooters. Craig's list had a 2009 Kymco Grandvista 250 that was being sold by one of my former students. A mid-50's complete newbie, I signed up for the course, but it was late in the season. Turns out my class was canceled due to low head count; nevertheless after reading the state manual, watching several TH-cam videos, and talking with the seller, I was able to pass the written test and thought--with some practice--I could take on the road test. So, I bought the Kymco and on my first attempt to ride it around in our yard and on our driveway, proceeded to drop the scooter and crack a rib.
So, when the MSF-affiliated Central Jersey Rider Training Course resumed the following spring, I was one of the first to sign up. The only peron who did not pass was a fellow who had brought his own motorcycle, which turned out to be too big for him to control sufficiently during the road skills evaluation. Even now, I am grateful for what I learned in the course and believe there are lots of skills I still need to practice. So, count me in the list of MSF fans. (And don't forget: all the gear, all the time.)
PS: Great videos!
Wow! 😳 I am so glad you ended up a-ok, and your persistence is admirable!!
Are you still riding the 09 Kymco?
And you got that right ATGATT!! ❤️ 🧥 🪖 🧤 🥾 👓
There are actually two main causes of the crash. First is following too close. Second is only using one break. A possible third cause is being distracted. The lack of break lights on the camper is of course a contributing factor. As for your questions, I didn't miss any of them. I have been riding mopeds, scooters, and motorcycles for over forty years. I actually prefer scooters. Currently I don't have a motorcycle endorsement. I have two 49cc scooters, that I ride a lot. I have two so I can go riding with friends that don't own scooters. A motorcycle license is not required for 49cc scooters where I live. I do take friends that haven't ridden scooters before out to a large open parking lot to teach them how to ride the scooters before I let them ride them on the road.
Me too.
49cc scooter these days, 106 MPH 2 stroke Yamaha RD350 45 years ago.
BRAKE not BREAK!
I was a newbie the first time I took the course myself. That weekend was the first time I rode a motorcycle ever. I made the mistake of wearing steel toe boots so I couldn’t feel the shifter and messed up the entire first day of riding. I didn’t pass, but four years later I got the bug again, but this time practiced with a rented scooter, read safety books and joined a few forums. I passed when I took the course again at the top of my class.
Gear shifting and the clutch were the hardest parts for me, but I learned that getting the bike into 2nd gear as soon as possible added stability to it. And then just look into your turns, especially when doing a figure 8 or U-turn. Great questions. Refreshers are always good.
All riders take some responsibility for a crash because it is their job to try and manage all of the factors to may lead to one. Despite the failures on the camper’s part the rider should have applied both of their brakes to slow their bike (70% of their stopping power is in the front brake). It should have allowed for more control in an emergency stop, and hopefully stopped the rear brakes from locking up.
Excellent video. I passed the skills test at dmv on monday in California now I have my M1 and can finally ride at night and on the freeway. . Down the line I will sign up for an msf course. Keep making videos, they are great.
Congrats on the freedom!! The pressure to pass a DMV course has got to be high, so I imagine you’re extra relieved on the other side of it!!
Thanks for the support! I love the scooter convos, so I’ll keep learning to talk here! 😂
Well, I got my motorcycle endorsement back in 1974. There was a motorcycle handbook by the DOT that you had to study to past the written exam. After passing that you was scheduled for the riding test which lasted maybe 2 minutes. But I had off road riding experience of a few years so that was not a problem. Over the years I read motorcycle articles in the motorcycle magazines on safe riding which were some of the basics of the riding course of today.
My wife went through the safety course back in 2005 which on passing you got a certificate for the riding part of the test. She had to still pass the DOT written test. Then you got your endorsement.
I knew the answer to you question. My main problem now is age with arthritis effecting my riding now. I only ride on “good days” so to speak. Maybe once I have my hip replaced I will be able to ride more.
I got them all right. I have only ridden a few times, motorcycles. I've been looking for a scooter or small motorcycle. I live in the middle of nowhere Colorado. I totally want to take the MSF, but the nearest one is 150 miles away!
Good morning I just wanted to thank you because you are the one that taught me how to use my Center stand on my Honda Metropolitan 50cc scooter by watching your videos you really taught me a lot even though my scooter is only 50 cc's I absolutely love it and I have no regrets I put as much as 50 even more miles on it a day best investment ever made people really need to watch your videos if they're interested in riding a scooter because you get the best advice thank you again and by the way I really love your videos I learned something everyday and you are a great teacher
It took me two tries to pass the scooter-scooter MSF because the instructor had to find a scooter I could touch the ground on. :D
Wow! Which scooters are you looking at? That’s a heck of a dilemma.
In the scenario at the end, it was basically the rider following too close the camper and not leaving themselves an out that would allow them to either slow down and go around the camper while it was turning, or (preferable), safely slow down to complete stop while the camper was turning.
It's the same for any vehicle; doesn't matter if it's a 2, 4, 6, or even 18-wheeler (what I drive), if you tailgate, you're gonna end up kissing someone's butt whether you want to or not.
Thank you for this video. I am taking my MSF course in 3 days . I'm excited 😊 to learn.
Best of luck! I hope it's smooth sailing, and you have instructors that make it a great experience!
Renee, I finally got enrolled in the MSF Basic Rider Course this weekend even though it's Father's Day weekend. (My husband encouraged it actually!) Since Illinois just reopened the state for no limits on groups, they opened up the classes for more to attend. I'll let you know how it goes! (PS: I've been studying my husband's book like yours to get a jump on learning.) Keep up your great videos!
Yay!!! What a nice surprise?!?!! I just got back from vacation, ordered a replacement for what I broke on my gear, and I’ll get to recording again shortly!
Lol, I had to take the course some years back as a stipulation of my probation due to a ticket from hell. It actually turned out to be kinda fun, buddied up and had some laughs with one of the girls in the class.. Anyway, the instructors even said it's all parking lot stuff. Very little useful knowledge for real road/highway riding other than some of the basic classroom stuff. But it got the judge off my back and wasn't a total loss of a weekend..
And the cause of the crash? Multiple things, but all boiling down to the rider not paying attention and not handling his machine properly. You can never, ever, trust other people on the road to do the right thing (graveyards are full of people who had the right of way). Things like no brake lights, distracted drivers, etc.., are to be expected. Pay attention to your surroundings at all times. And learn to use the front brake. On a rear weight bias bike like a chopper style cruiser, you can get a bit more out of the rear brake, but on a standard, sport type bike, or a scooter, 95% of your braking is on the front wheel. The harder you brake, the less weight is on the rear wheel, and the more useless (and dangerous) using it becomes.
When I first got my motorcycle license in California in 1968 there was a 10 question multiple choice quiz, that's all. No riding check. No safety course.
PS I got all your questions right.
PPS I'm an old time Vespa rider that used to work for Piaggio.
It's so cool to hear how other folks got their license. My husband just had to take a written test of some kind. He's definitely been riding way longer than I have, but since we're very close in age it makes me feel even more newbie to have had to go through the current process. lol
Hello My Fellow Texan. Great video. I've seen your other videos and the first one I saw was "If it's safe to ride a scooter." I'm thinking of getting me a scooter myself and have started looking at scooters. I did find a MSF Training Course a few miles from my house and another Training Course way across town from me. I also learned that the two Harley Davidson stores have a MSF Training Course as well. I'll be a Newbie Scooter Rider and Owner at 39. I first thought about a scooter back in my early 20's but nothing happened. So, I'm looking into scooters again. I'm looking into a 21' Piaggio Liberty S 150CC to drive to work since I work so close and to ride around the city streets. I'm in no rush for taking the course or buying me a scooter. I just need to make sure I save for the scooter and definitely take the MSF Course. The training location on my side of town, the instructor informed me to either take the course before the Texas Summer Heat or after the Summer Heat when it gets cooler. He has had participants get dehydrated or pass out because they're not used to being in the heat all day and with wearing all the gear. So that was a good tip from that instructor. I'm also currently looking into a helmet and I have my site on a modular helmet that way I can open it when I'm at a stop and so I'm not that hot. Because as you know, the Texas Heat doesn't mess around. I'm in San Antonio and the combination of the heat & humidity is killer here. So, that's why I probably want to go with a modular helmet. What kind of helmet do you have? Do you have any suggestions on helmets? Just curious to know. I don't know anyone that rides personally, so I can't really get a good opinion from someone I know. Anyways, I've enjoyed watching your videos and I can't wait to see more. I also just Subscribe to your channel. Until the next video. Be Well.
Yeehaw! Happy to see a 'neighbor' hopping in a scooter! You've done the legwork already to know that course is brutal in the heat! They really, really stressed heat management in my June course, for sure!
Thank you for your support & kind words!
Just knowing you want a modular helps narrow down the choices. This is the modular closest to what my husband uses since I am not seeing his exact model. (affiliate links)
imp.i104546.net/c/2499323/782962/11256?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.revzilla.com%2Fmotorcycle%2Fhjc-i90-helmet
This is the one he's saving towards.
imp.i104546.net/c/2499323/782962/11256?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.revzilla.com%2Fmotorcycle%2Fshoei-neotec-2-helmet
I drove to Ausin's AF-1 Racing to test drive Piaggio & Vespa scooters in May, and the Liberty was smooth 150! I can't wait to hear what you think when you hop on!
As a very soon to be new rider, like next week, I was very happy and surprised that I did manage to get all of your quiz questions right. I’m also a new sub to your channel. Please do post new content. I’m always looking to learn more. Thanks in advance.
Oh yay! What type of scooter or motorcycle are you leaning towards? I have a fresh Vespa review almost ready to publish finally.
@@ScooterNewbie I got a Gator 49 cc. It’s allows me to have my own transportation to and from work. And it works well for a first timer.
I've not taken the California motorcycle safety course. I was when I first bought my Vespa 150 lxi, so I could get my motorcycle endorsement added to my driver's license. But, I took my scooter (with no license) to the dmv and registered the vespa in my name. No problem. The dmv didn't ask for my license. So then I called my insurance. They didn't ask to see my license, but the did ask for me to bring it to them, so they could take pictures of it and put them on file. So I did. Now I had the vespa registered in my name and insurance put on my scooter. I always wore boots and jeans, never shorts or flip flops. I bought a SHOEI neo tec modular helmet and I wore gloves with the plastic armor on the knuckles. I've been riding for over 3 years like this in Central California with no issues. I have jumped on the highway a few times and ride in the slow lane, but mostly stay in the city or country roads that don't exceed 55 mph. I have even rode my vespa with a motorcycle cop, who rides a Vespa from Fresno. He asked me how long I had been riding? I told him and asked why? He said, because you're a good rider and I saw you giving out some pointers to others who might not had the same time on a scooter. All the while, no safety course and no motorcycle endorsement. I've ridden at night on MANY occasions from my home to the gym which is a 22 mile round trip. I have commuted from my home, to a dentist appointment, to work and back and it was a 70 mile ride, round trip.
Now my plan is to get a Vespa 300 gts, or HPE, And when I do so... I will take the course for that. Because I will be doing more freeway travel and it will be my primary mode of transportation. Right now I mostly drive my Toyota Tacoma to work. But with the power of a Vespa 300, I will be using it more often.
I mean, who knows. I may get the Vespa 300, register it and insure it like I did my 150 and just keep on scooting. Who knows.
I love your story! I totally have to mention my husband sold his Tacoma & commutes exclusively on a high cc scooter now! 😂
Keep up the good work just saw all your videos marathon style. Just found the channel and looking forward to all the future videos. Hope I get scooting later this month on a Piaggio Liberty 150 just took the MSF last week . Thanks for all your hard work on the website.
Congrats on the course and the Liberties are great scooters. I also ride the big sister the BV350 and a Kymco Like 150i
Yay for taking the course, and thanks so much for the support! I love to see more people riding!! That said, putting yourself out there isn’t always easy, so you have no idea how much I appreciate your kind words!
Just found your channel. I'm a scooter newbie as well. No license yet but trying to get into a local MSF course sometime this summer through waitlisting. They have filled up quickly. I got a Suzuki Burgman 400 for my birthday and can't wait to get on the road (safely!). Good video!
Wow! Congrats & happy belated! Have you taken your Burgman out around the block, or are you waiting for the course?
@@ScooterNewbie I have to wait for the MSF course & my license to do that but I can’t wait to hop on & go on my own. It’s nice knowing you’re out there sharing your experiences and insight for all of this. Thanks!!
Love your videos! Looking forward to some new scooter or bike content!
I stay out of that center of the lane. I know what they say about being seen by the driver ahead, but I keep my distance. So there are 2 zones within a lane and not an oily third lane.
Hi, Renee! So happy to have found your page. I live in Houston also and am thinking of selling my car/ replacing it with a scooter. Where did you take your MSF course? Love that your site had scooters for the course! All the best and thanks for sharing your experiences on here :)
Whoa! How did I miss this?! I took it at Awesome Cycles in Spring. www.awesomecycles.com/brc_curriculum.cfm
Thank for the kind words, & please let me know if you have any questions. I’m not fast, but I always respond to email if you prefer.
I trained my wife at the DMV test course on weekends just because the training course required her to use one of their motorcycles. She wanted nothing to do with learning to ride a motorcycle. There was plenty of information available for me online to make this approach work.
i took the course two months ago and they let me do it on a scooter! it was a lot harder than i thought and harder than the motorcycles because there’s no friction zone to use for slow speed cone weaving! But i only got 4 points deducted!
After riding vespa scooter like px150 and px200 back in the 90s. I tell myself to get ready for scooters again when im reaching 50 yrs old in 5 years time. Had to dump away all my vmax, xt, norden and versys by then. To my preferences this are the 3 scooters im gonna buy for 3 different use (If they are still around though)
1) Suzuki burgman 200, kymco like 150 or sym combiz 125 - short distance travel.
2) yamaha ypv 400 or suzuki burgman 400 - for work purpose.
3) Honda adv 750, yamaha forza/integra 750 or suzuki executive 650 - longer highway travel.
Be safe out there ya! Loves Hayliee, Australia 😘😘😘😘😘.
I just want to see the photo of these scoots together! I love it!
Ready to take course. Did you find a class with scooters at a SA location? I used to have a bike 40 years ago but would rather qualify on a scoot as that is what I intend on buying
Oklahoma requires an endorsement. Motorcycles are defined as 150cc and over. My Metropolitan is 49cc and my PCX is 149cc. Turns out that now they've added a requirement for those as well by adding in "motor-driven-cycle" which is defined as 35cc or an e-bike of 1000w. They want their money no matter what you ride.
An e-bike really surprises me. I got one of our license renewals in, and I was surprised at how high it seemed. They charge extra for the endorsement at renewal. Like do I cost the state extra simply for having the ability to ride?
Enjoying the view instead of watching the road
I’m 19 and I just bought me a vespa sprint 150, first time I ever rode a scooter I drove it in the cold wet rain, I ended up dropping it right after driving out the lot, what a learning experience that was
Oh no!!! I'm sorry to hear that! Are you & your scooter ok?!
I'm absolutely new to it, and feel unsecure on curving roads, and I'm so slow, ok my Vespa is 50 but still ... So I'm not in a position to go in everyday crowds on the streets ...at the same time, once I got to go....also have much of the hills, ups and downs and accommodation goes so slow. Never drove a scooter before... everyone says it will be easy and I'm not sharing that opinion . Thanks for tips in advance 🙏
i bought my scooter before i even took the course. My brother thinks the class just teaches you how not to die. when in reality it teaches you how to ride it correctly. i was told i could use my own scoooter. which is good. i want to learn to ride something that doesnt have gears.
Yes, it got me thinking...however I did get all the questions...
Hi there, I really appreciate your videos! I bought a buddy 50cc Italia and although I am able to drive carefully around town but really nervous and have already signed up for a motorcycle safety course (no scooter course available in my area) I am hoping you can offer a couple of tips for turning or even better do a video!
I realized that I am really struggling to make a turn from a complete stop. I have tried to employ some of the advice that is available for motorcycles but realized in no short order that it does NOT really Apply!!!! With motorcycles they recommend you lock the handles all the way to right (or left) depending on which way you want to turn, lean the bike into the turn, counterbalance by leaning your body in the opposite direction and look up in the direction that you are planning to turn and lastly you are supposed to accelerate. I did it and wound up wiping out!!! I would really appreciate if I could get some tips from another female rider. Many thanks! Deborah
Oh my gosh! I'll think through how I do it, and see if I can get a video for you. If you haven't signed up for the newsletter, please do! You can unsubscribe all you want, but I reply there faster. Comments get a little harder to find. sendfox.com/scootersfornewbies
@@ScooterNewbie I just subscribed Rene! Thank you! If you can offer any tips or a video making sharp turns from a complete stop that would be awesome!!! No one has done one for scooters and the principal of sharp turns on a motorcycle definitely DON'T work 🙄🤦😬!!!
You can take an MSF course from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation in my state of Louisiana however it will do you No Good to get your MC endorsement because my state office of motor vehicles does not recognize them as legit. In my state you Have to go through the state run program called the "Louisiana DPS Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program" and cannot use any other. This Really Sucks for me because this course is Not offered year round, but only a few times a year and only in a few cities. It's 100 bucks to take the basic course or 25 bucks if you have your own bike and can legally get it to the course.
Whoa! I did not know about the Louisiana situation! It discourages folks from getting educated. 🙁
@@ScooterNewbie I'm sure the state run course is just as good. They offer basic, intermediate and advanced. It's the basic course that's required to get your MC endorsement. I just think they saw an opportunity to make money as well as control the amount of MC riders on the road so they force you to take their course then limit the course availability. Here is the schedule for this year. Westwego is closest to me in New Orleans and that's still many miles away. As you see in this location it's only offered 3 times this year and is done for the year already. www.lsp.org/pdf/motorcycle_schedule.pdf The alternative is for me to study the official motorcycle manual they offer to pass the written test and then somehow illegally find a parking lot to practice who knows what to pass the skills test without getting caught. I only know they require figure eights for the skills test and videos found on youtube show sometimes that is the only skill they test for. Yeah, they don't make it easy at all if you cannot take the official state run course. If they offered a motorcycle learning permit like they do for cars, it would be a great help because then I could get to a parking lot legally. They don't even have next years schedule posted yet and I cannot rent a truck to take my bike to the 2 day course out of town.
That is quite ridiculous. So many folks in my class had been riding illegally, and the course cost is the only real burden I saw. I have heard they are booked for months these days, but everything is in short supply in 2021 it seems.
I definitely don’t get political here, but this sounds like an opportunity to email a representative if you are so inclined!
Regardless, I’m super impressed how thoughtful you are trying to be in your effort to get licensed, being safe, & legal. It sounds like a very tough spot to be in!
6:22pm I got them all right.
Hi Renee, what scooter phone mount do you recommend?
Distraction was the cause.
Michigan requires a valid driver's license to get an endorsement. As someone with a disability, I can ride a Can-Am, but need to jump through hoops.
Hope to get on a trike soon, Chinese scooters are slow and questionably reliable
I wish you luck in getting your trike!
@@ScooterNewbie
Thanks, Michigan lawmakers shot down my request at changing the law to help potential riders with a disability, so I guess I'll be doing it how everyone else does.
Here in OH, the motorcycle basic rider course is only $50. I’m afraid to ask what the other states are charging.
$220 in CT
In Victoria, Australia it’s $500
It’s currently $195.00 in Vermont. I’ve found most things to be more than double here from Ohio. Except salaries, of course. Not only is the cost more, but if you owe any amount of child support you can’t get a license of any kind, including a professional license!
I took the course years ago. So it’s on my drivers license in my state. Does this transfer over when you get a drivers license in another state? I guessing it does but might have to take the written test again.
I think that is a state by state thing. I’m in Texas, and as I understand it, it carries over without a test if active in your prior state.
I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you that it’s easy to switch!
@@ScooterNewbie 🙏 thanks
Where did you take your class ? I'm in Houston and looking for classes !
Awesome Cycles in Spring! I have thought about taking it again for a refresher. I believe they had Honda Metropolitans when I went a few years ago. www.awesomecycles.com/
Well, I’m 60 I just bought a scooter taking the course to learn how to ride the scooter.
I’m a Dallasite and I have a question! 👋🏾 If you take the MSF course and use a scooter, will you get a motorcycle or scooter endorsement? I’m pretty sure the answer is motorcycle endorsement, but want to check with you since you completed yours on a scooter as well. I take my course June 23-24 and I’m drinking my water now! Lol
I’m late to the party since you’re finishing up today, but CONGRATS! That motorcycle endorsement is almost yours!! ❤️
Any chance you know of any MSF courses that provide Scooters outside of Houston (preferably at least a few hours north ;) (4-6)
I am absolutely clueless about you folks that far up 45! 😂 I really had to dig to find the one I went to but call around or ask your local dealer if they are aware of any.
The motorcycle course is definitely pricey 400 here where I live so I wanted to take it but damn…
Right!! It hurts, but I get the hang-up when it costs that much.
Probably no front brake usage.
If you do the basic course after completion do you get a license
You have to take a written test too.
Driving too close
The rider was not paying attention to what was in front of him.
PLEASE ✅ your information on HELMUT DAMAGE from slight falls-bumps. ... ANYTHING ON ANTILOCK BRAKING❓⁉️
following too closely
The cause of the bike hitting the camper is wrong braking, not paying attention, poor depth perception, it was the cyclists' fault.
Driver distracted.