Perfect! In case you need the info, here is a link to the MSF:

http://msf-usa.org/pages/MAIN1.html

By the way, I recommend you don't ride without:

Full face helmet
Cordura or Leather Jacket
Cordura or Leather pants
Gloves
Boots
Brain fully engaged.
Bike checked out, especially tire pressure

 

I want to thank all my fellow motorcyclists for stepping up and putting out some extremely valid and valuable information. Moneeb, you take it. Most of us didn't get this far not learning the necessary skills. Motorcycling is a developed skill and takes time to acquire the basics.

I will add, that there are many squids that will try to steer you in the wrong direction. As you apply what you have learned you will be able to see them quite easy. If you got a doubt look for the oldest motorcyclist you can find and ask him. He's still riding one for a reason. As I have already said, 30+ years including many of it road racing and I still don't know it all but I'm still here Thank God!

Spend as much money on the best quality safety gear, that is available. Don't be chincy on the helmet. You'll one day thank yourself you didn't. One other thing to remember is there is a time and a place for everything. Racing, is not for the street. No, I'm not going to tell you that turning up the wick in the right circumstance is bad. That would be ludicrous. What I will tell you is drag racing, street racing is a big NO! This skill of ours is nothing but defensive on the street. There is no offensive riding except on the track, keep it there. You also set the example for others as you stand out more.

I commend you on your first choice. Just make sure you give yourself time to think and act. Learn, ask question, apply and be alert above all. Last thing, have fun and enjoy the experience, it's a life long one. Be prepared to let the S2000 sit, cause once your hooked it 's hard to relate to anything else.

 

Just a followup again on protective clothing... I've been using an Aerostich for the past 3-4years and don't know why I didn't have one any earlier. One of, if not *the*, best things I've ever purchased for riding.

http://www.aerostich.com

There are many other similar Cordura type suits out on the market but this one started it all, in and out of the suit in 10secs and will save your butt when you go down.

 

Excellent Choice Ioki. They also have some excellent Kevlar lined Jeans. They'll literally save your butt.

 

While I have had a motorcycle license for over 30years I have just recently returned to owning one.
You are wise to choose a smaller used bike to start with for when you drop it andm as
was said here, always wear your gear.
I see people all the time riding with no helmet, shorts, t-shirt, and sandles.
I have dropped a bike on the street(not this one) and it ain't pretty.

check out
http://www.sportbikeworld.com/index.php
if you haven't already. Lots of good info on gear,bikes,...

 

I'm in the same boat as Da Hapa(wife), but can tell you that this thread has some of the best advice you'll get anywhere!

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Moneeb
[B]

 

This is really good stuff. The right mix of fact, wisdom, and just plain miles on two wheels. I can't think of too much to add except this. Your bike selection may have been the hardest part of your entry into the world of motorcycles. Your ego screams for the hottest bike in the shop, but it's good reason and the folks here that hopefully directed towards a wiser selection. Time and miles will be your best teacher. By all means invest in the best protective gear you can afford, and find a local safety class to enroll into and your on your way.
I will add the following. After you get your bike go to an empty mall parking lot and practice turns. Learn what the bike feels like as you give it input. As you get a little used to it, practice hard stops. Learn what happens when you just use the front brake, then just the back brake. You will notice that the front has more stopping power than the rear alone. Learn to blend the two so that you learn to panic stop. Learn it NOW so that when the situation arises, and it will, your prepared. Beyond the basic riding stuff, the best advice I can offer is be aware of your surroundings. Jet jocks refer to it as situational awareness. Each car on the road, that pile of sand in the apex of the next curve, that little old lady that seems to not see you all have the possibility of hurting you. You will need to pay close attention to everthing around you. I have found that ear plugs help me concentrate and focus. Hell in traffic I even talk to myself" Whats that guy going to do?" "Does she see me?" When on the road be the master of your space. If a car gets to close, speed up, or drop back. Space is your friend! Enjoy! Let us know how your doing.

 

Thanks again guys

I am in awe of the wisdom this board has to offer.

 

The advise given by Chipster is all fine and good BUT might I suggest you do your empty mall lot thing as remedial practice AFTER you learn the proper technique at a rider's course. You don't want to learn bad habits on your own which have to be unlearned when you do finally take the course. Have fun and be safe.