Well I just failed my MFC lol

[dhgeyer]

WW,

It sounds like the Canadians have a much better system than we do, and more modeled on the British and European way. I have no data on Canadian accident statistics, but I'd be willing to bet that they're lower. I'm particularly impressed that you actually got road experience and training, and by the length of time spent. Do you happen to remember the approximate instructor/student ratio?

[primal]

Hey alazar, I thought I recognized this post over on Motorcycle Forums.

[Water Warrior 2]

We had 6 students in the class and 1 instructor. A very good ratio that allows plenty of time per student if extra coaching is needed. Also less chance of a stray duck while out on the street. We were taught how to ride in a group safely and properly which shows up frequently when another bike catches you on the road and slots in properly in a safe position. I try to always do the same when catching a rider ahead of me. I do not know if all course available are as long and as complete but any training is far better than none.
I have gone on a few group rides but much prefer riding with only 1 or 2 other bikes. I did go on with a group of 6 Vstrom riders and one Gal in particular was an absolute pleasure to follow. She had some real street smarts and never left you guessing about her next move.
When Lynda and I ride we have a great time primarily because we adhere to the same training and we also have radios to keep in touch. We have only had the radios for this season but there is a far smaller stress level when in traffic and we can comment or warn about a potential bad situation.

[mrlmd1]

WW - who rides in front or do you switch off during the ride?

[IceBreaker]

What do you all think of doing practice rides in a large cemetery? I think an empty cemetery or one with low traffic would be an excellent place to fine tune your riding skills before getting on the road with traffic. That is where I practiced after I passed my BRT(Basic Rider Training). Was a little apprehensive to get into traffic first. Once I gained my confidence in the "controlled" setting of a cemetery, I ventured into the roads. I asked one of my friends with a motorcycle license to ride the bike to the cemetery while I followed him in the car. You could even practice all the skills they test you on in the cemetery as well as straight line riding, curves, braking, stops etc, etc.... Best of luck next time and safe riding!

[Water Warrior 2]

Originally Posted by mrlmd1

WW - who rides in front or do you switch off during the ride?

Lynda would rather follow so I try to get her ahead of me now and again. I think it is good for both of us to be used to leading/following.

[Water Warrior 2]

Places to practice. A school parking lot after school. A church parking lot. If you are lucky, a new road not open to traffic yet. An abandoned air strip. An industrial area after hours.

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by IceBreaker

What do you all think of doing practice rides in a large cemetery?

As long as you stay on the roads......and the management doesn't mind.
That is private property, however, and they might ask you to leave.

Then again, strange things go on in the cemetery's in Cook County; might not be such a good idea after all !! :biggrin:

Welcome, fellow Illini !!

[burkbuilds]

Originally Posted by Easy Rider

Watch out for those big tombstones! :retard:

[dhgeyer]

A cemetery in Cook County, IL? I personally would be proud to ride among all those registered voters!

But, seriously, it does sound like a pretty good idea.