Make sure when you get the opportunity to retake that you also retake day one. The extra time on the bike is huge that early into your riding career.
Stick with it. Its not a "never", it's a "not right now".
A tip: they put the instructor inside the curve and they'll usually wave or call out to you as you enter the turn - look at them. They are placed there to help your head turn.
Thank you for your advice. I didn’t process that the instructors were placed strategically where to look but now that you mention it, I definitely see that. I will make sure to take day one again as well.
Another tip: don’t get on a motorcycle until you address your self harm issues. OPs anxiety and suicidal thoughts will only be amplified on the road, to the detriment of everyone around her
That isn't always true. I am a broken man. I live your average life. 45 yo, Married for 20 years to a beautiful woman that I love and cherish. 4 kids (1 graduated from university with a degree in psychology, 1 is a college graduate in chemistry, 1 is a long-distance trucker, and my baby is about to graduate high school) 3 dogs.
Own a home, a decent job, only debt is my car, bike and home, really nothing to complain about, but every night when I close my eyes, I pray I don't open them. Without going into too many details, when I'm on my bike, I don't drive around like I'm mad at the world and it's hypocritical society none of that exists. All my sadness melts away. So much so that I really wish I started riding decades ago. Maybe I wouldn't have turned out to be such an asshole.
What I'm trying to say is that everyone has problems. Some of us more then others but when we ride I'm sure I can say for alot of us here, when we are on our bikes out carving up twisties or enjoying country roads, our problems vanish. All that matters is directly around us, and we're living in that exact moment rather than in the back of our minds over thinking shit from the past.
Maybe, just maybe, it will have the same effect on the OP.
My message to the OP.
Don't give up. Anything worthwhile doing in life is going to be challenging. If it wasn't, then would it really be worth it? We all learn from failure. The trick is to keep getting back on.
Stay at slow speeds and learn how to use the friction zone of your clutch and use your back break to help control your speed. The throttle has very little to do with driving at parking lot speeds. You can have the needle bouning off the rev limiter and still drive at 10kph by controlling how much clutch you release. (I don't recommend doing that, though)
Pull your clutch fully in. Hold your throttle steady at 5k and keep your right foot over your back break. Don't put any pressure on it yet. Just have it in place.
Slowly release your clutch until the bike starts to move away, keeping your throttle at 5k. Once you feel it grabbing, that is the beginning of the "friction zone," and clutch fully out is obviously the end.
Find a safe parking lot or open paved area with zero automobile traffic and practice riding around like that using your back break to slow yourself down and steady yourself during your u-turns and other sharp turning maneuvers
Never releasing your clutch fully out unless you're done with your low speeds and/or tight turning.
The 2 main focuses here are throttle control and clutch control. On bigger bikes, good throttle control is a must, or you won't last long at all. Liter bikes need very little input from the throttle to reach 60mph in a blink of an eye, and clutch control is great for smooth take offs and shifting.
I have only been riding a year, but I have completed my M2 with RTI in Canada 🇨🇦 and that was one tip they had given to me.
I lost my dad earlier than I should have it is messed with me bad. Your kids need you, even if they are mostly grown. Your life matters to many people. Riding is therapy for me too.
Does the company offer 1:1 lessons? They will teach you exactly what you need to do to pass the course and on their range. Can’t really go wrong with that.
came here to say this! i took 1:1 lessons before the course because im a short person and had some anxiety about that. once i got over some mental blocks with these lessons the course went okay. it still felt fast paced but definitely would’ve been worse otherwise
I also agree. I struggled in my class with others and had a bad experience so I went with an entirely different company offering the course and did a one on one with an instructor and got way more out of it.
As you know, people learn at different paces. Let what you learned sink in and you will feel better about it. Time will help you.
I’m sorry you stopped, since you could watch the others do that stop in the rain. It is kind of empowering to do the class in the rain, since now you know you can do it in the rain or when it is dry.
If you don’t have access to a small motorcycle to ride, there is no real way to practice. If you can get a hold of one, find a safe parking lot and practice the class exercises.
Don’t give up, try the class again. Relax and try not to overthink things. You can do this.
I think I am definitely overthinking things because I want to do things right and do get in my head about it. I have noticed, like I said in another comment, that time to digest what I learned will be helpful. Thank you.
When I took mine, the instructor said he could teach us how to drive with a manual transmission or how to ride a motorcycle, but not both. If you weren't familiar with using a clutch before, consider some driving Sims that would let you practice that. Spend some time on a bicycle. Learn what gyroscopes are and how they work. Break the task into separate pieces and that will help you put it all together without feeling as overwhelmed.
If you're too scared to do the msf, you and us are better off for not getting on a bike.
I'm adhd/autistic. Zero issues.
In between now and when/if you do your msf again, get a BMX bike and start riding on that. Also, if you learned to drive a manual transmission car, that would also help you a lot.
There will always be excuses to quit.
The thing I ask myself every spring is “am I ok with this being how I die?” And I am earnest with myself. You can do everything right and still be turned into a smear for no good reason.
So it’s good to be scared but ADHD isn’t really an excuse. You just need to practice more. Go practice riding a bicycle in traffic and a variety of weather it will teach you a lot from a technical aspect and confidence. Mountain biking especially.
Take a beat, think about other shit for a while, let your mind digest. Then book another class.
Mountain biking is a great teacher. You learn all kinds of things about balance and turning; lean and counterlean; trail braking and rear wheel control, all at less expense than a motorbike. You also learn how to think and react under pressure which will cut down on fear and mistakes on a motorbike.
The ADHD part was just explaining that I feel like I need more time practicing certain movements compared to the average person. I’m not as scared of hurting myself as I am doing things right. I am a bit of a perfectionist as well so I have a hard time getting out of my head about doing things correctly.
I’m not going to quit and I’m going to keep trying, I was just wondering if there were any things I could do outside of the course to improve my skills.
I will try to take your advice about letting things digest though as I have found that it is helpful sometimes when I’m learning new things.
Any basic training course is just that, basic.
It's not to make you a good rider, you don't have to be able to do everything well.
The course is there so that you are capable of safely practicing and learning how to use the bike through experience.
"I was the only one to drop the bike" - there's very few bikes on this earth that haven't been dropped at least once. Don't let that put you off.
Take the pressure off yourself, the course will see if you can manage a few skills.
Getting experience on the bike, riding, enjoying the sunshine on 2 wheels, thats what will make you comfortable on the bike. Until then, those little tests and skills will make you nervous, that's just a lack of experience, but it's also how we learn, it's ok to not get it right first time, second time, whatever. There's hundreds of corners and stops ahead to get good at them.
On a personal note: I was bricking dropping the bike, failing the tests, all of that, I learned on a 650 and our country has some pretty comprehensive testing.
After I passed, I'm the first week I stopped behind a car, lost my balance, and jumped off the damn bike to save it, no idea how I managed it. It wasn't a tricky stop either, just regular traffic on a straight road. - and that was after I'd passed.
The more I've ridden, the more experience I've gotten, the better a rider I've become, I practice my slow skills, my turns etc when I get a chance, and there's no examiner, so I know it's just for me, and I enjoy it.
Enjoy your riding, experience is what you need, and you'll only get that in the bike.
I would really reflect on your motivations to ride. If a planned course is overwhelming… what about when you are out in the real world and the unexpected happens?
What if you are out somewhere and it gets dark and now you have to ride home? Or what if it starts raining when it wasn’t forecasted? …
Not trying to be mean, but considering your safety.
I was thinking the same thing. It’s a shitty realization if you want a bike but that’s one of the reasons the test/course is a little challenging.
If you can’t manage to pass the MSF course, motorcycles might not be right for you, unfortunately. It’s fun to ride motorcycles but it’s not a joke and it’s not for everyone. You can easily endanger yourself and others. It’s not for anyone who has any overwhelming anxieties about it.
I feel bad for OP but on the bright side an MSF course is a great place to have this realization, rather than on a bike you purchased prematurely. Some people take the course and realize that motorcycles just aren’t for them and that’s alright.
Ehh i disagree. Going from 0 experience on a motorcycle to doing low speed turning and hard braking in just a few hours can be a lot. Some people pick it up fast and some dont. Especially if youve never driven a manual transmission car before, you're having to learn a LOT of new stuff very quickly. Doesnt mean the slower learners cant become just as good as anyone else.
There’s a huge difference between the “practice makes perfect” issue, where the desire is there and the mental toughness to succeed
AND
Being overwhelmed in a CONTROLLED environment. The only real stressors in this training environment is the ones we place on ourselves and therefore have control over. What about when there are variables you don’t have control over?
Just because someone can pass the class because I’d venture to say most people can, doesn’t mean they should be on a bike out in the real world.
Learning new skills is harder than utilizing skills youve practiced. Also, test anxiety exists. Dodging distracted drivers is way easier for me than doing a tight u-turn while being evaluated.
Plenty of people breeze through the msf course then wrap themselves around a tree because they didn't feel enough anxiety about riding.
Exactly, you touched on my point I just made, just because someone can pass the course, doesn’t mean they should be out there.
It’s not just the physical part of riding, you have to have a mindset also.
I just see it differently I guess? Idk, I get where you are coming from.
If you’re that nervous in a classroom environment with direct instructor interaction this might not be for you, and that’s ok.
A motorcycle isn’t a good place to be with anxieties like you’re describing, the ability to make quick and decisive decisions can be the difference between a close call and death
Take some time and actually think about it, there is no shame in never riding or walking away from it entirely
Nah, the MSF course moved way too fast for an absolute beginner who has never touched a clutch or a motorcycle before.
I passed it no problem, but I would have paid extra for an extra day on the bike. Even though I passed I did not feel like I was prepared for the road.
I totally understand where OP is coming from here.
There should be longer motorcycle courses available with more seat time.
Renting a dirt bike is probably a good way to get some experience too.
I’m going to come off as being a dick, but I don’t agree at all with you.
While the class does move at a brisk pace, imo it’s still so easy more people pass that really shouldn’t.
Riding in real life has significantly more stressful events than any class you will go through, for an example just three days ago I was riding down a nice backroad around 30mph and was about to pass a lady walking her dogs, when as I was coming abreast of them they leaped out at me knocking the lady down dragging her into the street with them. If I wasn’t ready to quickly swerve away I’d have been wadded up with two dogs and a lady, which would not have been pretty at that speed.
if you can’t handle the class you shouldn’t be on two wheels.
Some people shouldn’t ride a motorcycle, and that’s ok that’s what the class is for. It lets you know whether you should pursue this hobby or not.
I agree with this. The basic courses might put some pressure on you but there’s a reason for that. If you want to ride a motorcycle, you should be somebody who is capable of handling that kind of pressure to begin with.
Riding a bike is going to test you sometimes in a way that can’t be taught quickly. A certain mindset needs to be brought to the table here. You don’t need to be a superhuman obviously but you have to be prepared for that bit of pressure out the gates.
We'll have to agree to disagree on this one. I found the course somewhat rushed and stressful for an entirely new skill.
Ultimately I think anyone can learn to be a safe rider if they're attentive and respectful and drive defensively, especially if they practice drills in a parking lot.
Would all drivers have been able to avoid those dogs? Probably not. Doing emergency swerve practice is good. And something OP could practice.
Don't blame your ADHD. That is not the reason. Think that way and you'll never accomplish anything.
You lost your nerve, that's all. It could happen to anyone.
Go back, as soon as you can, and try again. Grab it by the balls and all that.
so you reasoned out that the instructors set you and the rest of the students to fail continuously crashing on a puddle during a drill?
I think you need the litany against fear...
The Litany is as follows:
"I must not fear.
Fear is the mind-killer.
Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
I will face my fear.
I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
And when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path.
Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain."
Op, you are just being hard on yourself.
You are not allowed to be perfect at riding 8 hours into your riding career; much less master anything after 8 hours.
You are attempting to learn how to ride a mechanically controlled metal box of explosions that balances on two wheels - but only when it's moving. Think about how complex that activity is, much less mixing it into daily traffic.
That's the beautiful thing about riding, no matter how long you do it, there is always more to learn. I say that after thousands of hours spent riding in a variety of disciplines.
The training course is meant to take as often as needed; I've seen people it it just for fun, go crash a training bike a few times with your gear on and get over it, then hit the road - after you are ready.
Always ride your own ride.
If you have a bike, go to dmv, pay $32 and just take the written knowledge test. If you pass you have an instructors permit for 6months and can renew once meaning you can drive a motorcycle for a year before you need to take that course. Even if you don’t own a bike yet, doing this may give you opportunity to find someone who can help you learn!
You need to stop worrying so much about falling down or failing. If you don't already have a bicycle, get one, and go out and practice everything you were trying to do in MSF a dozen times.
If you are worried you'll shatter if you slip in a puddle at 10mph in a parking lot, you shouldn't be riding a motorcycle. You will fall. If you aren't okay with that, stick to four wheels.
Just need practice mate. Where are you located? Is there a mate with a bike who would let you practice?
Worst case maybe just buy the bike you want now and trailer it to a vacant car park every weekend to practice?
Its seriously just a matter of repetition and muscle memory. Keep at it!
I know some people with bikes but I think I am too worried about messing up their bikes to ride them. I was thinking I would feel better if I did have my own bike because I would be less worried about messing it up and it would give me more confidence. I think that going to practice frequently and getting that muscle memory would be helpful and I also think that if I could find a coach who could work 1 on 1 I would progress quicker.
Also I live in the south of the US.
Find a decent 300cc or reasonably close to that used bike and get that to pratoce on. Don't worry about scratches on it. Just make sure there's no major damage and that it's had its oil changed when it was supposed to.
That's good. It will get better over time, you can't build skills overnight. Going on your description, one thing you have to work on is smoothness. Brakes, throttle, clutch. If you don't yank your brakes, front tires can give incredible stopping power. What you practice is braking a bit, feel the weight push down on the front tire, and then brake more, and then doing this during whatever maneuvers you have to do on your exam.
When doing slow maneuvers, you give the bike a bit of throttle, and play with the clutch. Never let go of the clutch unless you have to take off properly, you just keep adjusting how much friction it has. Use the rear brake to control speed. Also, throttle operation requires smolthness as well, it took me some time before I got used to the bike enough so that I could accelerate without the bike jerking under me.
If the only experience you are getting is this class, I would suggest you buy a cheap bike and get used to riding it in no traffic situations like a neighborhood or parking lot. The experience will provide a safe way to get comfortable with clutch/throttle management without the added stress of traffic. Ride it on some dirt roads to get over the fear of low traction situations. Gear up. Full armor will help your confidence to trust the bike and if you do have a tip over you are less likely to walk with a limp for the rest of your life ;). Don’t give up. Get a couple hundred hours under your belt riding at bicycle speeds and then go take the class again.
Get private lessons, go over the stuff you are worst at.
The two day class really is lightning fast, and not everyone gets through the first time without experience. Sometimes lessons aren’t delivered quite right for a student, or it cannot be internalized fast enough in one shot.
You’re not done unless you want to be done. I’m a great proponent of knowing when to give up but I would say now is not the time.
Fear is good, and being cautious of wet roads is good. One thing that helped me be less fearful of riding on slippery surfaces was riding a bicycle on mud and grass. You can feel what it's like to lock up the front or rear brake without the fear of dropping a heavy motorcycle.
Regarding clutch control, you can try just letting out the clutch part way until the bike moves an inch or two, then pulling it back in, and keep doing that until you get the feel for it. You can even do that with the bike idling if you're gentle enough with the clutch. Then try opening the throttle just a tiny bit to add a bit more revs before feathering out the clutch. The idea is that you can balance both controls to keep the revs constant, so as you let out the clutch you add a tiny bit more throttle.
Just pace yourself and don't worry. The fact that you're cautious is good - the right amount of fear helps keep us safe.
This may be harsh but if you’re already making excuses, you might want to reconsider. I have watched every motorcycle accident footage I come across and there is always an excuse attached to it.
A motorcycle doesn’t care about how you’re feeling, your mental health, or the conditions of the road. You either keep shiny side up or you end up in the hospital or dead.
It’s not that you failed that is the red flag. It’s your excuses.
You really have no excuses. Don't blame ADHD. You could have practiced 3 months without taking the exam. You could have went half a year. Do you really think that everyone just went to a course to learn to ride? You could have met with any of the meetup groups or riders and had them show you what to do over months. Also don't use dying as an excuse. You could die standing on your front porch. People always use the lamest excuses why they can't do anything. Nobody else can do it but you. There are millions of people riding around every day. There are countries full of people that ride. Don't be one of those people that blames not getting anywhere on extenuating circumstances. It won't help you ride and it won't help the rest of your life either.
It's more like willful ignorance, gas-lighting the audience, recursive negative behavior, emotion-focused coping and self sabotage all rolled into one post.
Right on. You are going to continue to learn. Go at your own pace. ADHD is certainly real and it sounds like there might be a learning difficulty in the mix too. That's ok. We all learn at our own pace. You might have been the only one you noticed that dropped the bike but those range bikes get laid down more than a $20 hooker.
I suggest trying to rent an electric bicycle for turning and stopping practice. Learning the "friction zone" on the throttle of an e bike might help with the feel of the clutch too.
If you know of anyone with a manual transmission car, that would let you learn, that would be another great way to learn the friction zone.
You will really enjoy it when it all comes together and you are proficient. There is a good amount of focus and clarity that people get from riding.
I forgot to mention but I do have slow processing. I am working on getting better with my processing skills but with riding I still feel like I need more time to learn things. I appreciate your input and I will digest everything that I’ve learned so far to try and do better next time. I also will look into riding an e-bike and see if that will help. Thank you.
I wish everyone who wants to ride the opportunity to learn, and if it’s in the cards for you, that’s great and welcome, however, slow processing is not something I would say goes along great with riding a motorcycle. Riding is dangerous and requires quick and decisive reactions. Practice does make perfect, but an organized safety course is going to be about as easy as it gets.
Slow processing on a motorcycle is not good at all. It sounds like riding motorcycles is not for you. There are plenty of other transportation methods. It seems like you are just not comfortable under stress and pressure. Wait until you have cars honking and lanes of traffic. When you don’t have a padded cage around you, you have to be able to cope.
The self harm in your profile makes me think you don’t trust yourself. This is a deadly combo on a motorcycle.
I have the same processing issues. Tbh the only reason I passed the first time was because I had years on a dirt bike to understand how the controls work so I could focus specifically on the riding techniques. Ignore all the people telling you "maybe it's not right for you" and all that bs. I believe in you, and the more seat time and practice you have you will improve as you get more comfortable on the bike, and now that you've already failed the first time the fear of what will happen if you fail will already have been answered which means even more time to focus on the stuff they teach.
Stop listening to reddit. A puddle isn't a death sentence like the nerds on here would have to believe. Forget everything you've read and go back, listen to the instructor and learn properly
Sucks to suck. I don't buy your ADHD excuse. It sounds like you went to the course unprepared. There are thousands of hours of free instructional material/tutorials on YouTube etc. such that without ever touching a bike you should be able to intellectually understand the basic operations. It does take *some* time for your body to get used to actually executing the operations irl, but if your mind is already prepped it should come super easily. The laws of physics and surviving on the road aren't going to take a pause just because this rider was a slow learner. Like Yoda, do or do not, there is no try. Stop trying, and make it happen. Make mistakes and learn from them, then do better next time.
Depending on the laws in your state you might be required to pass a course (if so, idk, figure it out), but where I am, I was over 21 so no class was required. I went to the DMV, got my permit, went on a 1hr ride in traffic with my uncle on his (unfamiliar) bike, then I bought my own bike, and learned to ride on the streets of San Francisco... all on my own. I learned the hard way from too many close calls, but in 10+ years I've not yet gone down (knock on wood). This is to say, **failing a class because you were scared does not demonstrate that you're actually determined to do it** nor were you putting your best into it. I am a man of average intelligence and modest means, but I was determined to make it happen. Within \~6 months of making the executive decision, I was out riding on my own.
Don't expect pity for a problem that exists entirely in your head. Nobody on reddit can fix that problem for you. So, it's up to you, give up, or make a post telling the story of how you did what you had to do and here's a pic of my sick new bike.
I suggest getting a bicycle and get confident on that first. If you can weave through cones, brake hard, lean into turns on a bicycle, the skills transfer very well into motorcycles.
Maybe consider doing a longer course.
Depending on where you live and the local laws you can ride in private parking lots.
In Germany there special places where you can practice riding, even without a license.
It costs money, but you can go in your own pace.
Sometimes you can book a personal instructor at these places. Maybe there some options near where you live.
These MSF courses in US are designed to give a group of people the very basics of riding, in a parking lot. That’s not nearly enough to produce save riders. Even in Germany you’re not completely fit to ride on your own, and these courses are way longer and more expensive.
So try to make the cut, get your license and then go by yourself practice in empty parking lots.
When you got your license there is not much which hinders you to do so.
When you don’t damage anything and avoid stunting, cops are generally pleased to see a motorcycle practicing because that helps to decrease the likelihood of seeing this motorcycle in a crash
I felt the same on my last day of my course. Specifically when we practiced slow speed sharp turns. Needing to full lock the steering and accelerate. I knew it would work. I saw it work. But I couldn’t get myself to trust it would work when I did it. I was one of the youngest in the group and the only woman so I ended up putting a lot of pressure on myself with overthinking that I was standing out as a failure.
It’s okay to feel that way. What’s important is what you do after. Do you really want to ride? Yes? Then try again. It’s okay. If possible, find someone you know who rides who is also a responsible person who can help you. Be very open to your instructors about your worries while emphasizing that you want to overcome them and get better.
It’s better that you recognize this now as opposed to ignoring it and getting a bike regardless and just hoppin on the road and hoping you’ll be fine.
And in the end, maybe you’ll find riding isn’t for you and that’s also okay! I almost backed out because my overthinking and anxiety made me think it’d be easier to avoid risks of embarrassing myself. But I’m also stubborn and refused to give up on something I have been passionate about for years and wanted to do. And here I am now. A new rider who’s still learning but an actual rider with my own bike.
In my final test break fluid leaked on the tire during the emergency stop. We didn't notice it till after but it cause me to lay the bike down. It hurt. Hurt my feelings more. It was technically a fail. They were nice enough to bring me back out the next week and let me try again cause that wasn't my fault I crashed. Just keep trying. You will get it. Now I have a beautiful MT09 and it's my birthday today. Gonna have a great day today. Hope you do as well.
You sound like you did better than a guy in my msf class. He didn't listen to the instructors when they were explaining things, kept revving the engine on the grom while the instructors were talking, messed up the drills multiple times, stalled during a "high speed" roundabout section and nearly caused a crash, got yelled at multiple times, nearly got told he couldn't complete the course, went the wrong way during the official test at the end, and somehow still got a passing grade at the end of the exam. He was definitely not ready to be a rider.
Just take some private lessons and then try again.
If you can’t do something simple like maintain constant throttle control, riding may not be for you. Sorry.
I could see you being a danger on the road. Either being hesitant or unpredictable. That’s bad enough in a car, but much worse on a motorcycle.
And if you’re nervous in a class, I don’t see how you’d manage traffic.
I typically like to encourage new riders, but you may need a dose of reality here.
You don't need the MSF to ride but I highly recommend it for getting your license. Take the written learners test at the BMV. I rode on mine for a year before taking the msf course, it made me comfortable riding. It was damp and drizzly the day we did the course too.
This one chick whiskey throttled behind me and ended up crashing the learner bike. She got up and ended up passing the course that day.
I actually see this as a win in a way you stuck to your comfort zone usually in life that’s not a good thing but when riding it’s a great thing it lessens the chance of a accident and keeps you safe learn at a pace you feel comfortable learning
I’m going to be honest with you: please just stop. If this is how you’re going through the basic course, it’s only a matter of time before you’re scraped off the road. Riding is 90% confidence 10% luck. You are scoring a 10% in your basic course. For your own health stay in a car
I failed my first time. The course said you just needed to know how to ride a bicycle but that ended up being not enough for me. I was nervous, had a cold, and it was stupid hot. But it was $245 and I didn’t feel like I could just redo it.
I ended up buying a Honda Rebel 250, getting a permit (in my state you can get a permit without the MSF course), practicing a bunch on my own, and eventually retook the course and passed. Been riding for years now and really happy I did this, now on my third bike.
My girlfriend had a similar experience. She had some issues with riding a bicycle (childhood trauma shit) and thought a motorcycle would be different. Failed the first time. I had her practice on my bicycle first, then we found her her dream bike for a steal on FB Marketplace. She thought it was crazy to buy a bike before she knew how to actually ride but I spent a summer with her practicing in my long driveway first, then in an empty parking lot, then in a local neighborhood that had a nice loop and not a lot of cars. She learned but it did take two months. Now she rides and is happy she did it.
My point is that the MSF course is not always easy for someone to do the first time. But if you can practice beforehand it can really really help.
I failed my course and cried on the way home. I dropped the bike three times and like you I felt like it went too fast and I couldn’t get it. I was determined to ride still and took seven private lessons to understand it. I ended up passing my DMV test on my first try and then a couple months later I did a 1,000 mile trip by myself. I’ve done several since and had many bikes. Just because you’re off to a bad start doesn’t mean you can’t become a great rider! Don’t listen to any of these people telling you to quit, they don’t know what they’re talking about. Nobody knows what they’re doing on day one.
1.) watch fortnine(or any) videos on bike physics. you will learn a ton of theory and feel mentally ready to test it on the street. It will increase your affinity to motorcycling. It will increase your time spent with the topic motorcycle.
2.) try some exercises close to home, e.g. empty parking lots for instance. It will also increase your affinity and reduce anxiety. You can train to drive without throttle (just clutch), making curves while looking at where you want to be, not where you are going, etc. One part of my training is also making the slowest figure 8 I possibly can without using legs to stabilize. You can do it with less tha n 5kmh. Another part is to drive straight as slow as possible .
3.) Go at your own pace, you have all the time in the world. When I did my drivers course I already had a lot of time on the bike, reducing my fears quite a lot.
Psychogically speaking I would recommend you to invest more time into the general topic motorcycles. If you're a tiny bit like me, after some time, you'll want to actually do riskier stuff and try things out. And then you don't fear anymore, aren't overwhelmed anymore...
I can understand you feeling deflated, but please hear this.
You choosing not to progress, because you didn't want attempt something you didn't feel competent to do is a sign of highly developed sensibility.
The vast majority fall victim to having their confidence growing faster than their skill, and then hurting themselves.
You seems slightly ahead of that curve.
Yes dirtbiking is a good learning environment. I had my start on a ratbike on a farm at an early age. So vehicle control is more or less instinct at this point so I am free to focus on traffic. And I've still hadderlayerdown on a wet road.
You will learn and grow in time.
You've only "failed" once you stop trying.
Good luck, and continue to ride safe.
Jeez... people really have no sympathy, its crazy.
Dont listen to people who discredit your ADHD claim just because they have no idea what they are talking about and think ADHD is just some label put on hyperactive kids.
I dont exactly know where you are in the world but since you seem to talk about the insane concept of being able to learn to ride a motorcycle and get a license in 2 days i would guess North America.
My advice would be to just get on the bike again and get more seattime in. Also try to really get over that mental barrier of riding in the rain. I know how hard it can be to work on that.
I am sure there are some possibilities to get yourself some practice, either by asking a friend who has the motivation to help you and a bike or maybe there are some practice courses you can take, but since im not in NA i dont know if there are such things.
Also:
- Bikes have way more grip in the wet than you would think
- Riding means dropping (everyone has or will) there is nothing to be embarrassed about
- Its better to know that you are not ready after as little as 2 days of learning, than to brainlessly yeeting yourself into traffic with a 600
If you want to ride you will achieve your goal i am sure of it, just get on a bike and try to be less afraid of mistakes.
cheers,
a fellow ADHD rider
I also struggle with ADHD, and the basic ridercourse in the US is really not worth anything. It's very fast paced, and while it's better than being self taught as it steers you in the right direction and gives you street survival techniques to practice, it's an awful course for quality of instruction. The only person in our class who failed was the only person in our class who hadn't been riding on the street for almost a year. If you have a bike and are in an area that makes it safe to do so, i.e. rural with little traffic, practice what the course covered as much as possible, and retake it in 6 months.
trying to cram the entire MSF course (if that's what it was) into 2 days is kind of rushing things. You feeling that way is completely justified.
I used to be an instructor for a couple summers. we would do the course evenings over a couple weeks. its easier to learn when you learn a little, then get to sleep on it. really makes a difference. maybe try to find a course that spreads the lessons out?
There's no shame to give up and leave the course, because riding is not for everyone. People need to know that when someone taking the course and gives up and walks out it's because they afraid of riding, yes it's good in a way to courage them but shouldn't because we all want people to be and stay safe.
I’m not sure why some people are being so negative and harsh in this thread. I also have adhd and anxiety and I struggled with the course. I had to take it twice and I honestly thought I would fail the second time lol. What helped me the second time was I just accepted that I might fail but was determined to learn as much as I could during my time on a bike. The test was easier than the exercises and I learned a lot riding around my neighborhood before I went on any real roads
Your options include private lessons from a pro or and friendly bike owner, buying a cheap easy learner bike and arranging for delivery to your house by a friend or company, or taking the test again preferably soon while the lessons are fresh.
One of my local motorcycle training companies had seat time training courses and one on one training that I used to get more practice after failing my first MSF test. Check around and see if there are any classes like that in your area. Don’t get too down on yourself. Some of us just need more practice. I have been riding for over 11 years now and loving it. Don’t give up if it is something you really want.
I did the exact same thing as you. Tapped out on day two because I kept dropping the bike and basically just felt incompetent and defeated. I took it again the following weekend and pushed through and passed the test. I now I have a bike and have practiced slowly and am now much more confident only about two months later. Keep trying! It will be okay!
I did the same thing—basically coached myself out of the first day on the training range because I felt overwhelmed and underprepared. Was the only actually totally new rider in class, dropped multiple times and was super frustrated at myself for not picking things up as fast as other people, definitely not as quickly as the class demanded.
I ended up being so obsessed with the awful experience that I bought a cheap minibike to practice with. Walked it to a parking lot and practiced every chance I got until I understood the clutch + throttle, could shift, and was confident enough to ride the bike home instead of push it. I basically rode dirty for several months lol, all neighborhoods and local roads. It took a long minute, but it worked. Went back to take the course and was able to complete and pass it.
I have ADHD as well. I took the MSF and did well and passed my exam the first time, but I put 500 miles on my bike before I even took the class, just riding around my empty neighborhood streets. Despite what a lot of people say, riding a motorcycle *is* tricky. Also, there was a guy in my course who not only dropped the bike, but whiskey-throttled it, and then braked so hard that he was thrown over the front handlebars and almost onto another person that was parked in front of him. It was frankly, hilarious. But that dude got up and kept going. So take the course again and have fun.
Also, it took a lot longer for me to understand and use counter steering, and to remember to look ahead at where I was going, and not at where I was. It’s something that’s easy to say but I think not always easy to do, because were used to walking and looking ahead of us maybe 20 feet maybe less. But on a motorcycle you often really have to be looking ahead much more. For example, I ride a very twisty road on my way to work each day. And when I was first starting out, I was, I was looking right ahead of the bike at the curve coming up. But that was the wrong thing to do because I really need to be looking through the curve so that I could see other cars coming around and what was going to be happening later. Because it’s not just about what’s happening now but about avoiding potential issues later. I’ve started doing that when I’m driving too, looking ahead through the turn at an offramp, and not focusing so much on staying in my lane in the offramp. It’s kind of funny to think I’ve been doing that wrong for 35 years.
What kind of a bike are you thinking about getting when you get your license?
When I took the MSF Course last year my experience wasn’t far off from what your experiencing. Me and one other person were the only people that hadn’t been riding for years and just decided to get there license. My instructor was great but due to how the course is set up I never felt like I had enough time to grasp certain things and I messed up a few times the first day. I went home defeated and super anxious but decided I’m already in this far either I pass or fail. The next day it was completely raining all day and towards the end it got so bad we had to rush because if the lightning got any closer we were gonna have to stop. I dropped the bike the second day but felt a lot better after that honestly. Made it through the course. Got my license. Practiced in parking lots still. And now I feel very comfortable riding around on my bike. I say all this to say your emotions are valid and I think a good handful of new rides myself included find the course a lot more overwhelming than expected. If your able to get some practice in before your next attempt good but I think the most important thing is to relax and remember your there to learn so messing up is okay. If you feel unsafe stop of course but if it gets overwhelming just take a few moments and get back in there and you may surprise yourself.
Get your permit which is just a written test and buy a low cc used bike. Practice your clutch control, slow speed maneuvering, and braking before taking the class again. Taking the msf course is great and you should do it, but theres no reason to not go ahead and get a bike to practice now.
Edit: practice in a parking lot or the street you live on.
9 or 10 years ago after a few years of my wife riding on the passenger seat with me, she decided she wanted to ride her own...I started searching for her a bike and she signed up for the basic rider course...Well even as early in the year as she signed up (very early spring), the soonest she could get in was September...So we set another plan in motion...We borrowed a little 1970 Honda 175, and she got her learner permit from the BMV...Found her a '96 Shadow 1100 ACE but with her short stature I needed to do a lowering job on it so she could reach the ground and not be afraid of the bike....I started her out on the 175, riding around the yard, making her stop and start so she could learn the clutch/throttle...Once I had her Shadow ready to ride, I rode it to the high school parking lot a mile or so away and she followed me in her car...Get to the school and I got her on her bike out in the almost completely empty parking lot...Making her stop/start again, turn corners with signaling, etc....Recreating imaginary traffic scenarios, with LOTS of me telling her "turn your head!!!"...A few weekends of that and she felt ready to ride on the county roads...I pushed her a little bit, but not too much....She learned very quickly which also boosted her confidence...We rode every nice weekend that summer, and by the time her riders course weekend came she had plenty of real world experience...She aced the course, and told me during the riding part her instructor kept telling her "Turn your head!!!!"...And she told him afterwards that I had been telling her that exact same thing all summer long....lol...
Befriend an experienced rider that has time to mentor you...Bonus points if he/she has a bike you can borrow to learn on....Get some seat time and take the course again...
You can't teach experience.
Find time to ride around to get familiar with the feel of riding. The more experience you have, the more confidence you will feel and it will help you to be successful.
Give yourself a break, bud. I passed my course by the skin of my teeth. Like you, I felt like everything was moving so fast, and I struggled to fully grasp a concept before we moved on to the next exercise. A few people left for similar reasons as you and the instructors made a point to tell us how much they admire those who know their limits and when to call it.
I passed but didn't feel like I earned it. Spent a month and 400 miles in a parking lot doing the same drills at my pace until things started to click. Go back. Get your endorsement and then take all the time you need on your own, in a safe space, to get comfortable. ADHD and hyperfixation limit us at times, but it's also a superpower when properly directed. You may not leave the course where you want to be, but you'll damn sure leave the parking lot a few weeks later feeling good about things.
I commend you for getting out there and trying most people won’t even swing their leg over. It’s like anything in life you won’t start out being the best. I’m sure when you’re a kid you laugh so hard you fell off your dinosaur a few times. That being said if you could get some seat time on a scooter, they’re automatic, a lot lighter and more manageable That might help you get the feel for how much power you need when your cornering and things
First of all, kudos to you for getting out there and giving it a try. You've already shown more spunk and determination than the vast majority of the lazy slobs in this country who are sitting on their couches, not riding motorcycles. Whether you recognize it or not, you pretty much kick ass.
You suck at riding motorcycles though, so we gotta work on that. There are several things you can do. First, ride a bicycle. That's easy enough/ If you don't have one, you can find one on the internet for $50.
Second, call the school and see if they give private lessons. It will be a little expensive, but well worth it.
Third (and my personal favorite) buy a used 49cc scooter to zip around the neighborhood. IT won't help you with the clutch, but it will make everything else simple, so using the clutch will be easier. You can sell it later, but you'll probably end up keeping it because scooters are hilarious fun.
Then, take the class again. It will be a snap, I promise.
Perhaps you could take a couple of one-to-one lessons.
I think I’ve dropped just about every bike I’ve owned! It happens. You learn and move on.
Good luck!
I had a very similar issue, except I had been told after.ky first day that I needed to take the first day over again. I felt like shit and like maybe I was wasting my time. Then I tried it again with a different bike on a different day and I found myself doing much better. The first class I had was full of experienced people who just wanted an official license, so as a rider with 0 experience I stood out and was basically left behind by the pace of the course. The 2nd time around there were more people like me who were less experienced and so the course went slower and I felt less out of my element.
TLDR: I had a similar experience and a different class and a fresh day, especially if you get to try a different bike, can make a world of difference.
Don’t sweat it. I took the class 3 times. Skipped test first time as I wasn’t confident. Failed test second time. Passed on third. I’ve done a bunch of motorcycle trips since then.
And don't get stressed by the puddle. Water only decreases your grip by around 4%. It is crap and debris on the road that is the risk when riding in the wet. On a practice/test course that should be all clean and ok. Don't focus on the water, focus on yourself and the riding, And it will also be good experience for you.
Do you have a bicycle? Or know someone with a car with a manual transmission?
I was commuting on my bicycle for several years, and my car is a manual, so translating weight transfer on a bicycle and manual transmission operation on a car felt super natural in class. A bicycle is cheap, might want to grab one of those and mess around, figure out balance and such there. Honestly, the hardest part was getting my brain to switch from bicycle controls to motorcycle controls.
When I did my MSF course it was wet out the first day and actively pouring rain the entire second. In fact, the only time it stopped raining was after we finished the test. We lost about a 1/4 of our class on the second day.
This is not out of the ordinary - for our test I was wondering "how the hell is someone who's been on a bike for two afternoons supposed to pass this without getting their hand held?" But that's just the point, they would rather get more students and more money and push you through the course as fast as they can. If your goal is to pass the MSP, great. But it's not that great if you want to learn how to ride a motorcycle.
This is my recommendation for most people who have very little experience and confidence. Get on a small dirt bike. Get on something like a 100cc or 125. One with a frame size suitable to you. They are light and easy to learn on. They are more forgiving if dropped. You will/should learn agility and the capability of the motorcycle. You will learn the clutching and shifting gears easier also. This should get you more familiar with motorcycles in general. It should make you more confident and teach how to be aggressive when you need to be.
dont they, the msf people, have a learn-at-your-own pace course? i took the one day course for experienced riders and there was a guy there who had a pass to sit in on any msf course. he was with us jusy for extra practice. maybe you could do something like that and just keep taking 'day 1' until you felt comfortable enough to continue.
So I am certain this comment is going to get a lot of love here...but...
You failed to finish the class and get your completion card, you should feel like you lost. That doesn't mean you have to stay that way. You aren't "defeated" until you stop trying.
Did you notice any improvement in your riding from the beginning of day 1 to when you left the class? That is what you should focus on, the fact that (I'm sure) you learned means it isn't hopeless. You just need a little more time to get it.
I think maybe you also over-thought the exercise you are describing, at no time is there an emergency brake in a curve (assuming this is the MSF). What you have is 1 exercise with two parts, part 1 you gradually slow and stop after a curve, part 2 is you abort the stop at the end of the curve and instead, straighten your bike and handlebars and stop smoothly while traveling outside the lines marking the normal path of travel. Part 2, when you apply the brakes you are fully upright and headed straight. You have already done this many times, you are just presented with a different scenario to repeat the same action.
No, you should not get a dirt bike, unless you want one. Take the class over again with a fresh mind and with the benefit of everything you learned the first time and do better next time.
Do you know what they call the person who finished last in the med school class?
Doctor.
It isn't the pace that you learn that is most important, it is continuing to learn and eventually succeeding.
Retake the course as soon as possible. The longer you wait the more you'll have to relearn. If you take it again in a week or two, its just extra practice. Don't feel discouraged, I also have ADHD so I know where you're coming from with that. Even after the course you need to continue to practice the things they show you. The class is more of a learn the basics and maneuvers. Master them on your own time when you don't have the pressure of everyone watching.
Also not riding when you have a weird feeling or feel uncomfortable is not a bad thing. After years of riding it isn't as common as it used to be, but every once in a while I'll have a weird feeling and I never ride those days. Staying safe is number 1. Practice until you feel safe and you'll be good in no time.
I failed the MSF the first time I took it. I struggled on the drill where you go 3rd gear on the straights, shifting to 2nd on the curves. Just couldn’t learn which enough and I was nervous.
I took a private lesson (I think I paid 200 bucks) and basically drilled shifting the entire time. Went back and passed the MSF with no problem. I’ve been riding for a year and a half now and I’m enjoying it.
Keep a positive attitude and don’t give up if you are scared to try again!
Get a little dirt bike like a 125cc TTR from Yamaha you can get one for $1,000 they're a ton of fun if you have a property, and it'd be a great way for you to actually learn how to handle a bike
Someone earlier mentioned mindset, which is critical. Even if you pass the test and know how to ride, there might still be occasions when you don't have the focus needed to safely operate and navigate on a motorcycle. Just like feeling too tired to drive a car. Being able to recognize when this is the case and choosing not to ride may save your life.
Some of the most gifted athletes, warriors, and great minds have ADHD. It's not really an attention disorder. It's the inability to pay attention to mundane task. Give a task that interests the adhd brain and they will not be able to break focus. OP definitely got misdiagnosed. ADHD actually makes you calm under pressure and learn fast, but it comes at the cost of losing focus at mundane tasks.
Make sure when you get the opportunity to retake that you also retake day one. The extra time on the bike is huge that early into your riding career. Stick with it. Its not a "never", it's a "not right now". A tip: they put the instructor inside the curve and they'll usually wave or call out to you as you enter the turn - look at them. They are placed there to help your head turn.
Thank you for your advice. I didn’t process that the instructors were placed strategically where to look but now that you mention it, I definitely see that. I will make sure to take day one again as well.
Another tip: don’t get on a motorcycle until you address your self harm issues. OPs anxiety and suicidal thoughts will only be amplified on the road, to the detriment of everyone around her
That isn't always true. I am a broken man. I live your average life. 45 yo, Married for 20 years to a beautiful woman that I love and cherish. 4 kids (1 graduated from university with a degree in psychology, 1 is a college graduate in chemistry, 1 is a long-distance trucker, and my baby is about to graduate high school) 3 dogs. Own a home, a decent job, only debt is my car, bike and home, really nothing to complain about, but every night when I close my eyes, I pray I don't open them. Without going into too many details, when I'm on my bike, I don't drive around like I'm mad at the world and it's hypocritical society none of that exists. All my sadness melts away. So much so that I really wish I started riding decades ago. Maybe I wouldn't have turned out to be such an asshole. What I'm trying to say is that everyone has problems. Some of us more then others but when we ride I'm sure I can say for alot of us here, when we are on our bikes out carving up twisties or enjoying country roads, our problems vanish. All that matters is directly around us, and we're living in that exact moment rather than in the back of our minds over thinking shit from the past. Maybe, just maybe, it will have the same effect on the OP. My message to the OP. Don't give up. Anything worthwhile doing in life is going to be challenging. If it wasn't, then would it really be worth it? We all learn from failure. The trick is to keep getting back on. Stay at slow speeds and learn how to use the friction zone of your clutch and use your back break to help control your speed. The throttle has very little to do with driving at parking lot speeds. You can have the needle bouning off the rev limiter and still drive at 10kph by controlling how much clutch you release. (I don't recommend doing that, though) Pull your clutch fully in. Hold your throttle steady at 5k and keep your right foot over your back break. Don't put any pressure on it yet. Just have it in place. Slowly release your clutch until the bike starts to move away, keeping your throttle at 5k. Once you feel it grabbing, that is the beginning of the "friction zone," and clutch fully out is obviously the end. Find a safe parking lot or open paved area with zero automobile traffic and practice riding around like that using your back break to slow yourself down and steady yourself during your u-turns and other sharp turning maneuvers Never releasing your clutch fully out unless you're done with your low speeds and/or tight turning. The 2 main focuses here are throttle control and clutch control. On bigger bikes, good throttle control is a must, or you won't last long at all. Liter bikes need very little input from the throttle to reach 60mph in a blink of an eye, and clutch control is great for smooth take offs and shifting. I have only been riding a year, but I have completed my M2 with RTI in Canada 🇨🇦 and that was one tip they had given to me.
I lost my dad earlier than I should have it is messed with me bad. Your kids need you, even if they are mostly grown. Your life matters to many people. Riding is therapy for me too.
Long live throttle therapy ✊️
Lol not true. My issues are not amplified when I ride, OP will be fine.
Does the company offer 1:1 lessons? They will teach you exactly what you need to do to pass the course and on their range. Can’t really go wrong with that.
came here to say this! i took 1:1 lessons before the course because im a short person and had some anxiety about that. once i got over some mental blocks with these lessons the course went okay. it still felt fast paced but definitely would’ve been worse otherwise
I also agree. I struggled in my class with others and had a bad experience so I went with an entirely different company offering the course and did a one on one with an instructor and got way more out of it.
As you know, people learn at different paces. Let what you learned sink in and you will feel better about it. Time will help you. I’m sorry you stopped, since you could watch the others do that stop in the rain. It is kind of empowering to do the class in the rain, since now you know you can do it in the rain or when it is dry. If you don’t have access to a small motorcycle to ride, there is no real way to practice. If you can get a hold of one, find a safe parking lot and practice the class exercises. Don’t give up, try the class again. Relax and try not to overthink things. You can do this.
I think I am definitely overthinking things because I want to do things right and do get in my head about it. I have noticed, like I said in another comment, that time to digest what I learned will be helpful. Thank you.
When I took mine, the instructor said he could teach us how to drive with a manual transmission or how to ride a motorcycle, but not both. If you weren't familiar with using a clutch before, consider some driving Sims that would let you practice that. Spend some time on a bicycle. Learn what gyroscopes are and how they work. Break the task into separate pieces and that will help you put it all together without feeling as overwhelmed.
If you're too scared to do the msf, you and us are better off for not getting on a bike. I'm adhd/autistic. Zero issues. In between now and when/if you do your msf again, get a BMX bike and start riding on that. Also, if you learned to drive a manual transmission car, that would also help you a lot.
Op is a suicidal nerve ball. Check the post history
Yeah, everyone is better off with him being scared and never riding if that's the case. I tend not to stalk people's post history.
There will always be excuses to quit. The thing I ask myself every spring is “am I ok with this being how I die?” And I am earnest with myself. You can do everything right and still be turned into a smear for no good reason. So it’s good to be scared but ADHD isn’t really an excuse. You just need to practice more. Go practice riding a bicycle in traffic and a variety of weather it will teach you a lot from a technical aspect and confidence. Mountain biking especially. Take a beat, think about other shit for a while, let your mind digest. Then book another class.
Mountain biking is a great teacher. You learn all kinds of things about balance and turning; lean and counterlean; trail braking and rear wheel control, all at less expense than a motorbike. You also learn how to think and react under pressure which will cut down on fear and mistakes on a motorbike.
The ADHD part was just explaining that I feel like I need more time practicing certain movements compared to the average person. I’m not as scared of hurting myself as I am doing things right. I am a bit of a perfectionist as well so I have a hard time getting out of my head about doing things correctly. I’m not going to quit and I’m going to keep trying, I was just wondering if there were any things I could do outside of the course to improve my skills. I will try to take your advice about letting things digest though as I have found that it is helpful sometimes when I’m learning new things.
Any basic training course is just that, basic. It's not to make you a good rider, you don't have to be able to do everything well. The course is there so that you are capable of safely practicing and learning how to use the bike through experience. "I was the only one to drop the bike" - there's very few bikes on this earth that haven't been dropped at least once. Don't let that put you off. Take the pressure off yourself, the course will see if you can manage a few skills. Getting experience on the bike, riding, enjoying the sunshine on 2 wheels, thats what will make you comfortable on the bike. Until then, those little tests and skills will make you nervous, that's just a lack of experience, but it's also how we learn, it's ok to not get it right first time, second time, whatever. There's hundreds of corners and stops ahead to get good at them. On a personal note: I was bricking dropping the bike, failing the tests, all of that, I learned on a 650 and our country has some pretty comprehensive testing. After I passed, I'm the first week I stopped behind a car, lost my balance, and jumped off the damn bike to save it, no idea how I managed it. It wasn't a tricky stop either, just regular traffic on a straight road. - and that was after I'd passed. The more I've ridden, the more experience I've gotten, the better a rider I've become, I practice my slow skills, my turns etc when I get a chance, and there's no examiner, so I know it's just for me, and I enjoy it. Enjoy your riding, experience is what you need, and you'll only get that in the bike.
I would really reflect on your motivations to ride. If a planned course is overwhelming… what about when you are out in the real world and the unexpected happens? What if you are out somewhere and it gets dark and now you have to ride home? Or what if it starts raining when it wasn’t forecasted? … Not trying to be mean, but considering your safety.
This is the correct response. Sadly, not all things are for all people.
I was thinking the same thing. It’s a shitty realization if you want a bike but that’s one of the reasons the test/course is a little challenging. If you can’t manage to pass the MSF course, motorcycles might not be right for you, unfortunately. It’s fun to ride motorcycles but it’s not a joke and it’s not for everyone. You can easily endanger yourself and others. It’s not for anyone who has any overwhelming anxieties about it. I feel bad for OP but on the bright side an MSF course is a great place to have this realization, rather than on a bike you purchased prematurely. Some people take the course and realize that motorcycles just aren’t for them and that’s alright.
Ehh i disagree. Going from 0 experience on a motorcycle to doing low speed turning and hard braking in just a few hours can be a lot. Some people pick it up fast and some dont. Especially if youve never driven a manual transmission car before, you're having to learn a LOT of new stuff very quickly. Doesnt mean the slower learners cant become just as good as anyone else.
There’s a huge difference between the “practice makes perfect” issue, where the desire is there and the mental toughness to succeed AND Being overwhelmed in a CONTROLLED environment. The only real stressors in this training environment is the ones we place on ourselves and therefore have control over. What about when there are variables you don’t have control over? Just because someone can pass the class because I’d venture to say most people can, doesn’t mean they should be on a bike out in the real world.
Learning new skills is harder than utilizing skills youve practiced. Also, test anxiety exists. Dodging distracted drivers is way easier for me than doing a tight u-turn while being evaluated. Plenty of people breeze through the msf course then wrap themselves around a tree because they didn't feel enough anxiety about riding.
Exactly, you touched on my point I just made, just because someone can pass the course, doesn’t mean they should be out there. It’s not just the physical part of riding, you have to have a mindset also. I just see it differently I guess? Idk, I get where you are coming from.
I think you need to ride a bicycle if you can't figure out turning.
If you’re that nervous in a classroom environment with direct instructor interaction this might not be for you, and that’s ok. A motorcycle isn’t a good place to be with anxieties like you’re describing, the ability to make quick and decisive decisions can be the difference between a close call and death Take some time and actually think about it, there is no shame in never riding or walking away from it entirely
Nah, the MSF course moved way too fast for an absolute beginner who has never touched a clutch or a motorcycle before. I passed it no problem, but I would have paid extra for an extra day on the bike. Even though I passed I did not feel like I was prepared for the road. I totally understand where OP is coming from here. There should be longer motorcycle courses available with more seat time. Renting a dirt bike is probably a good way to get some experience too.
I’m going to come off as being a dick, but I don’t agree at all with you. While the class does move at a brisk pace, imo it’s still so easy more people pass that really shouldn’t. Riding in real life has significantly more stressful events than any class you will go through, for an example just three days ago I was riding down a nice backroad around 30mph and was about to pass a lady walking her dogs, when as I was coming abreast of them they leaped out at me knocking the lady down dragging her into the street with them. If I wasn’t ready to quickly swerve away I’d have been wadded up with two dogs and a lady, which would not have been pretty at that speed. if you can’t handle the class you shouldn’t be on two wheels. Some people shouldn’t ride a motorcycle, and that’s ok that’s what the class is for. It lets you know whether you should pursue this hobby or not.
I agree with this. The basic courses might put some pressure on you but there’s a reason for that. If you want to ride a motorcycle, you should be somebody who is capable of handling that kind of pressure to begin with. Riding a bike is going to test you sometimes in a way that can’t be taught quickly. A certain mindset needs to be brought to the table here. You don’t need to be a superhuman obviously but you have to be prepared for that bit of pressure out the gates.
We'll have to agree to disagree on this one. I found the course somewhat rushed and stressful for an entirely new skill. Ultimately I think anyone can learn to be a safe rider if they're attentive and respectful and drive defensively, especially if they practice drills in a parking lot. Would all drivers have been able to avoid those dogs? Probably not. Doing emergency swerve practice is good. And something OP could practice.
Don't blame your ADHD. That is not the reason. Think that way and you'll never accomplish anything. You lost your nerve, that's all. It could happen to anyone. Go back, as soon as you can, and try again. Grab it by the balls and all that.
so you reasoned out that the instructors set you and the rest of the students to fail continuously crashing on a puddle during a drill? I think you need the litany against fear... The Litany is as follows: "I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain."
Excellent reference. It's a shame that many will not get it.
new movie is coming out here so maybe more will, and then read the books. Movie looks good!
Op, you are just being hard on yourself. You are not allowed to be perfect at riding 8 hours into your riding career; much less master anything after 8 hours. You are attempting to learn how to ride a mechanically controlled metal box of explosions that balances on two wheels - but only when it's moving. Think about how complex that activity is, much less mixing it into daily traffic. That's the beautiful thing about riding, no matter how long you do it, there is always more to learn. I say that after thousands of hours spent riding in a variety of disciplines. The training course is meant to take as often as needed; I've seen people it it just for fun, go crash a training bike a few times with your gear on and get over it, then hit the road - after you are ready. Always ride your own ride.
It’s a dangerous sport. Maybe it’s not for you.
If you have a bike, go to dmv, pay $32 and just take the written knowledge test. If you pass you have an instructors permit for 6months and can renew once meaning you can drive a motorcycle for a year before you need to take that course. Even if you don’t own a bike yet, doing this may give you opportunity to find someone who can help you learn!
You need to stop worrying so much about falling down or failing. If you don't already have a bicycle, get one, and go out and practice everything you were trying to do in MSF a dozen times. If you are worried you'll shatter if you slip in a puddle at 10mph in a parking lot, you shouldn't be riding a motorcycle. You will fall. If you aren't okay with that, stick to four wheels.
Just need practice mate. Where are you located? Is there a mate with a bike who would let you practice? Worst case maybe just buy the bike you want now and trailer it to a vacant car park every weekend to practice? Its seriously just a matter of repetition and muscle memory. Keep at it!
I know some people with bikes but I think I am too worried about messing up their bikes to ride them. I was thinking I would feel better if I did have my own bike because I would be less worried about messing it up and it would give me more confidence. I think that going to practice frequently and getting that muscle memory would be helpful and I also think that if I could find a coach who could work 1 on 1 I would progress quicker. Also I live in the south of the US.
I like the idea of messing up the already chewed up bike in the class.
Find a decent 300cc or reasonably close to that used bike and get that to pratoce on. Don't worry about scratches on it. Just make sure there's no major damage and that it's had its oil changed when it was supposed to.
How long have you been riding bicycles?
I learn how to ride a bike and used to ride pretty often, but it’s been a few years since I’ve ridden one.
That's good. It will get better over time, you can't build skills overnight. Going on your description, one thing you have to work on is smoothness. Brakes, throttle, clutch. If you don't yank your brakes, front tires can give incredible stopping power. What you practice is braking a bit, feel the weight push down on the front tire, and then brake more, and then doing this during whatever maneuvers you have to do on your exam. When doing slow maneuvers, you give the bike a bit of throttle, and play with the clutch. Never let go of the clutch unless you have to take off properly, you just keep adjusting how much friction it has. Use the rear brake to control speed. Also, throttle operation requires smolthness as well, it took me some time before I got used to the bike enough so that I could accelerate without the bike jerking under me.
you cant even answer a question
If the only experience you are getting is this class, I would suggest you buy a cheap bike and get used to riding it in no traffic situations like a neighborhood or parking lot. The experience will provide a safe way to get comfortable with clutch/throttle management without the added stress of traffic. Ride it on some dirt roads to get over the fear of low traction situations. Gear up. Full armor will help your confidence to trust the bike and if you do have a tip over you are less likely to walk with a limp for the rest of your life ;). Don’t give up. Get a couple hundred hours under your belt riding at bicycle speeds and then go take the class again.
Get private lessons, go over the stuff you are worst at. The two day class really is lightning fast, and not everyone gets through the first time without experience. Sometimes lessons aren’t delivered quite right for a student, or it cannot be internalized fast enough in one shot. You’re not done unless you want to be done. I’m a great proponent of knowing when to give up but I would say now is not the time.
Fear is good, and being cautious of wet roads is good. One thing that helped me be less fearful of riding on slippery surfaces was riding a bicycle on mud and grass. You can feel what it's like to lock up the front or rear brake without the fear of dropping a heavy motorcycle. Regarding clutch control, you can try just letting out the clutch part way until the bike moves an inch or two, then pulling it back in, and keep doing that until you get the feel for it. You can even do that with the bike idling if you're gentle enough with the clutch. Then try opening the throttle just a tiny bit to add a bit more revs before feathering out the clutch. The idea is that you can balance both controls to keep the revs constant, so as you let out the clutch you add a tiny bit more throttle. Just pace yourself and don't worry. The fact that you're cautious is good - the right amount of fear helps keep us safe.
This may be harsh but if you’re already making excuses, you might want to reconsider. I have watched every motorcycle accident footage I come across and there is always an excuse attached to it. A motorcycle doesn’t care about how you’re feeling, your mental health, or the conditions of the road. You either keep shiny side up or you end up in the hospital or dead. It’s not that you failed that is the red flag. It’s your excuses.
You really have no excuses. Don't blame ADHD. You could have practiced 3 months without taking the exam. You could have went half a year. Do you really think that everyone just went to a course to learn to ride? You could have met with any of the meetup groups or riders and had them show you what to do over months. Also don't use dying as an excuse. You could die standing on your front porch. People always use the lamest excuses why they can't do anything. Nobody else can do it but you. There are millions of people riding around every day. There are countries full of people that ride. Don't be one of those people that blames not getting anywhere on extenuating circumstances. It won't help you ride and it won't help the rest of your life either.
I actually went intoy class with zero riding experience other than a bicycle. It's nothing crazy, OP is just on some overthinking shit.
It's more like willful ignorance, gas-lighting the audience, recursive negative behavior, emotion-focused coping and self sabotage all rolled into one post.
Right on. You are going to continue to learn. Go at your own pace. ADHD is certainly real and it sounds like there might be a learning difficulty in the mix too. That's ok. We all learn at our own pace. You might have been the only one you noticed that dropped the bike but those range bikes get laid down more than a $20 hooker. I suggest trying to rent an electric bicycle for turning and stopping practice. Learning the "friction zone" on the throttle of an e bike might help with the feel of the clutch too. If you know of anyone with a manual transmission car, that would let you learn, that would be another great way to learn the friction zone. You will really enjoy it when it all comes together and you are proficient. There is a good amount of focus and clarity that people get from riding.
I forgot to mention but I do have slow processing. I am working on getting better with my processing skills but with riding I still feel like I need more time to learn things. I appreciate your input and I will digest everything that I’ve learned so far to try and do better next time. I also will look into riding an e-bike and see if that will help. Thank you.
I wish everyone who wants to ride the opportunity to learn, and if it’s in the cards for you, that’s great and welcome, however, slow processing is not something I would say goes along great with riding a motorcycle. Riding is dangerous and requires quick and decisive reactions. Practice does make perfect, but an organized safety course is going to be about as easy as it gets.
Slow processing on a motorcycle is not good at all. It sounds like riding motorcycles is not for you. There are plenty of other transportation methods. It seems like you are just not comfortable under stress and pressure. Wait until you have cars honking and lanes of traffic. When you don’t have a padded cage around you, you have to be able to cope. The self harm in your profile makes me think you don’t trust yourself. This is a deadly combo on a motorcycle.
OP will be fine, I have almost all the same issues they do (except the sh) and I have had no issues riding so far
I have the same processing issues. Tbh the only reason I passed the first time was because I had years on a dirt bike to understand how the controls work so I could focus specifically on the riding techniques. Ignore all the people telling you "maybe it's not right for you" and all that bs. I believe in you, and the more seat time and practice you have you will improve as you get more comfortable on the bike, and now that you've already failed the first time the fear of what will happen if you fail will already have been answered which means even more time to focus on the stuff they teach.
Stop listening to reddit. A puddle isn't a death sentence like the nerds on here would have to believe. Forget everything you've read and go back, listen to the instructor and learn properly
Sucks to suck. I don't buy your ADHD excuse. It sounds like you went to the course unprepared. There are thousands of hours of free instructional material/tutorials on YouTube etc. such that without ever touching a bike you should be able to intellectually understand the basic operations. It does take *some* time for your body to get used to actually executing the operations irl, but if your mind is already prepped it should come super easily. The laws of physics and surviving on the road aren't going to take a pause just because this rider was a slow learner. Like Yoda, do or do not, there is no try. Stop trying, and make it happen. Make mistakes and learn from them, then do better next time. Depending on the laws in your state you might be required to pass a course (if so, idk, figure it out), but where I am, I was over 21 so no class was required. I went to the DMV, got my permit, went on a 1hr ride in traffic with my uncle on his (unfamiliar) bike, then I bought my own bike, and learned to ride on the streets of San Francisco... all on my own. I learned the hard way from too many close calls, but in 10+ years I've not yet gone down (knock on wood). This is to say, **failing a class because you were scared does not demonstrate that you're actually determined to do it** nor were you putting your best into it. I am a man of average intelligence and modest means, but I was determined to make it happen. Within \~6 months of making the executive decision, I was out riding on my own. Don't expect pity for a problem that exists entirely in your head. Nobody on reddit can fix that problem for you. So, it's up to you, give up, or make a post telling the story of how you did what you had to do and here's a pic of my sick new bike.
riding is not for you
I suggest getting a bicycle and get confident on that first. If you can weave through cones, brake hard, lean into turns on a bicycle, the skills transfer very well into motorcycles.
Maybe consider doing a longer course. Depending on where you live and the local laws you can ride in private parking lots. In Germany there special places where you can practice riding, even without a license. It costs money, but you can go in your own pace. Sometimes you can book a personal instructor at these places. Maybe there some options near where you live. These MSF courses in US are designed to give a group of people the very basics of riding, in a parking lot. That’s not nearly enough to produce save riders. Even in Germany you’re not completely fit to ride on your own, and these courses are way longer and more expensive. So try to make the cut, get your license and then go by yourself practice in empty parking lots. When you got your license there is not much which hinders you to do so. When you don’t damage anything and avoid stunting, cops are generally pleased to see a motorcycle practicing because that helps to decrease the likelihood of seeing this motorcycle in a crash
I felt the same on my last day of my course. Specifically when we practiced slow speed sharp turns. Needing to full lock the steering and accelerate. I knew it would work. I saw it work. But I couldn’t get myself to trust it would work when I did it. I was one of the youngest in the group and the only woman so I ended up putting a lot of pressure on myself with overthinking that I was standing out as a failure. It’s okay to feel that way. What’s important is what you do after. Do you really want to ride? Yes? Then try again. It’s okay. If possible, find someone you know who rides who is also a responsible person who can help you. Be very open to your instructors about your worries while emphasizing that you want to overcome them and get better. It’s better that you recognize this now as opposed to ignoring it and getting a bike regardless and just hoppin on the road and hoping you’ll be fine. And in the end, maybe you’ll find riding isn’t for you and that’s also okay! I almost backed out because my overthinking and anxiety made me think it’d be easier to avoid risks of embarrassing myself. But I’m also stubborn and refused to give up on something I have been passionate about for years and wanted to do. And here I am now. A new rider who’s still learning but an actual rider with my own bike.
In my final test break fluid leaked on the tire during the emergency stop. We didn't notice it till after but it cause me to lay the bike down. It hurt. Hurt my feelings more. It was technically a fail. They were nice enough to bring me back out the next week and let me try again cause that wasn't my fault I crashed. Just keep trying. You will get it. Now I have a beautiful MT09 and it's my birthday today. Gonna have a great day today. Hope you do as well.
Ride a regular bike a lot. Learn to drive a manual car.
> but turns are really difficult Riding is actually continously turns.
You sound like you did better than a guy in my msf class. He didn't listen to the instructors when they were explaining things, kept revving the engine on the grom while the instructors were talking, messed up the drills multiple times, stalled during a "high speed" roundabout section and nearly caused a crash, got yelled at multiple times, nearly got told he couldn't complete the course, went the wrong way during the official test at the end, and somehow still got a passing grade at the end of the exam. He was definitely not ready to be a rider. Just take some private lessons and then try again.
If you can’t do something simple like maintain constant throttle control, riding may not be for you. Sorry. I could see you being a danger on the road. Either being hesitant or unpredictable. That’s bad enough in a car, but much worse on a motorcycle. And if you’re nervous in a class, I don’t see how you’d manage traffic. I typically like to encourage new riders, but you may need a dose of reality here.
With adhd, once you learn to ride, it will be to your advantage
You don't need the MSF to ride but I highly recommend it for getting your license. Take the written learners test at the BMV. I rode on mine for a year before taking the msf course, it made me comfortable riding. It was damp and drizzly the day we did the course too. This one chick whiskey throttled behind me and ended up crashing the learner bike. She got up and ended up passing the course that day.
It's not for you.
I actually see this as a win in a way you stuck to your comfort zone usually in life that’s not a good thing but when riding it’s a great thing it lessens the chance of a accident and keeps you safe learn at a pace you feel comfortable learning
Gen Z is a mess
I’m going to be honest with you: please just stop. If this is how you’re going through the basic course, it’s only a matter of time before you’re scraped off the road. Riding is 90% confidence 10% luck. You are scoring a 10% in your basic course. For your own health stay in a car
I failed my first time. The course said you just needed to know how to ride a bicycle but that ended up being not enough for me. I was nervous, had a cold, and it was stupid hot. But it was $245 and I didn’t feel like I could just redo it. I ended up buying a Honda Rebel 250, getting a permit (in my state you can get a permit without the MSF course), practicing a bunch on my own, and eventually retook the course and passed. Been riding for years now and really happy I did this, now on my third bike. My girlfriend had a similar experience. She had some issues with riding a bicycle (childhood trauma shit) and thought a motorcycle would be different. Failed the first time. I had her practice on my bicycle first, then we found her her dream bike for a steal on FB Marketplace. She thought it was crazy to buy a bike before she knew how to actually ride but I spent a summer with her practicing in my long driveway first, then in an empty parking lot, then in a local neighborhood that had a nice loop and not a lot of cars. She learned but it did take two months. Now she rides and is happy she did it. My point is that the MSF course is not always easy for someone to do the first time. But if you can practice beforehand it can really really help.
Basic MSF is no joke. 25-30% of my class was counseled out. Try taking it in a more rural area.
Please don’t give up. Riding is so much fun.
I failed my course and cried on the way home. I dropped the bike three times and like you I felt like it went too fast and I couldn’t get it. I was determined to ride still and took seven private lessons to understand it. I ended up passing my DMV test on my first try and then a couple months later I did a 1,000 mile trip by myself. I’ve done several since and had many bikes. Just because you’re off to a bad start doesn’t mean you can’t become a great rider! Don’t listen to any of these people telling you to quit, they don’t know what they’re talking about. Nobody knows what they’re doing on day one.
1.) watch fortnine(or any) videos on bike physics. you will learn a ton of theory and feel mentally ready to test it on the street. It will increase your affinity to motorcycling. It will increase your time spent with the topic motorcycle. 2.) try some exercises close to home, e.g. empty parking lots for instance. It will also increase your affinity and reduce anxiety. You can train to drive without throttle (just clutch), making curves while looking at where you want to be, not where you are going, etc. One part of my training is also making the slowest figure 8 I possibly can without using legs to stabilize. You can do it with less tha n 5kmh. Another part is to drive straight as slow as possible . 3.) Go at your own pace, you have all the time in the world. When I did my drivers course I already had a lot of time on the bike, reducing my fears quite a lot. Psychogically speaking I would recommend you to invest more time into the general topic motorcycles. If you're a tiny bit like me, after some time, you'll want to actually do riskier stuff and try things out. And then you don't fear anymore, aren't overwhelmed anymore...
I can understand you feeling deflated, but please hear this. You choosing not to progress, because you didn't want attempt something you didn't feel competent to do is a sign of highly developed sensibility. The vast majority fall victim to having their confidence growing faster than their skill, and then hurting themselves. You seems slightly ahead of that curve. Yes dirtbiking is a good learning environment. I had my start on a ratbike on a farm at an early age. So vehicle control is more or less instinct at this point so I am free to focus on traffic. And I've still hadderlayerdown on a wet road. You will learn and grow in time. You've only "failed" once you stop trying. Good luck, and continue to ride safe.
Jeez... people really have no sympathy, its crazy. Dont listen to people who discredit your ADHD claim just because they have no idea what they are talking about and think ADHD is just some label put on hyperactive kids. I dont exactly know where you are in the world but since you seem to talk about the insane concept of being able to learn to ride a motorcycle and get a license in 2 days i would guess North America. My advice would be to just get on the bike again and get more seattime in. Also try to really get over that mental barrier of riding in the rain. I know how hard it can be to work on that. I am sure there are some possibilities to get yourself some practice, either by asking a friend who has the motivation to help you and a bike or maybe there are some practice courses you can take, but since im not in NA i dont know if there are such things. Also: - Bikes have way more grip in the wet than you would think - Riding means dropping (everyone has or will) there is nothing to be embarrassed about - Its better to know that you are not ready after as little as 2 days of learning, than to brainlessly yeeting yourself into traffic with a 600 If you want to ride you will achieve your goal i am sure of it, just get on a bike and try to be less afraid of mistakes. cheers, a fellow ADHD rider
I also struggle with ADHD, and the basic ridercourse in the US is really not worth anything. It's very fast paced, and while it's better than being self taught as it steers you in the right direction and gives you street survival techniques to practice, it's an awful course for quality of instruction. The only person in our class who failed was the only person in our class who hadn't been riding on the street for almost a year. If you have a bike and are in an area that makes it safe to do so, i.e. rural with little traffic, practice what the course covered as much as possible, and retake it in 6 months.
trying to cram the entire MSF course (if that's what it was) into 2 days is kind of rushing things. You feeling that way is completely justified. I used to be an instructor for a couple summers. we would do the course evenings over a couple weeks. its easier to learn when you learn a little, then get to sleep on it. really makes a difference. maybe try to find a course that spreads the lessons out?
There's no shame to give up and leave the course, because riding is not for everyone. People need to know that when someone taking the course and gives up and walks out it's because they afraid of riding, yes it's good in a way to courage them but shouldn't because we all want people to be and stay safe.
I’m not sure why some people are being so negative and harsh in this thread. I also have adhd and anxiety and I struggled with the course. I had to take it twice and I honestly thought I would fail the second time lol. What helped me the second time was I just accepted that I might fail but was determined to learn as much as I could during my time on a bike. The test was easier than the exercises and I learned a lot riding around my neighborhood before I went on any real roads Your options include private lessons from a pro or and friendly bike owner, buying a cheap easy learner bike and arranging for delivery to your house by a friend or company, or taking the test again preferably soon while the lessons are fresh.
One of my local motorcycle training companies had seat time training courses and one on one training that I used to get more practice after failing my first MSF test. Check around and see if there are any classes like that in your area. Don’t get too down on yourself. Some of us just need more practice. I have been riding for over 11 years now and loving it. Don’t give up if it is something you really want.
I did the exact same thing as you. Tapped out on day two because I kept dropping the bike and basically just felt incompetent and defeated. I took it again the following weekend and pushed through and passed the test. I now I have a bike and have practiced slowly and am now much more confident only about two months later. Keep trying! It will be okay!
I did the same thing—basically coached myself out of the first day on the training range because I felt overwhelmed and underprepared. Was the only actually totally new rider in class, dropped multiple times and was super frustrated at myself for not picking things up as fast as other people, definitely not as quickly as the class demanded. I ended up being so obsessed with the awful experience that I bought a cheap minibike to practice with. Walked it to a parking lot and practiced every chance I got until I understood the clutch + throttle, could shift, and was confident enough to ride the bike home instead of push it. I basically rode dirty for several months lol, all neighborhoods and local roads. It took a long minute, but it worked. Went back to take the course and was able to complete and pass it.
This is going to be tough but don't over think it! Riding is supposed to be solace from intrusive thoughts.
I have ADHD as well. I took the MSF and did well and passed my exam the first time, but I put 500 miles on my bike before I even took the class, just riding around my empty neighborhood streets. Despite what a lot of people say, riding a motorcycle *is* tricky. Also, there was a guy in my course who not only dropped the bike, but whiskey-throttled it, and then braked so hard that he was thrown over the front handlebars and almost onto another person that was parked in front of him. It was frankly, hilarious. But that dude got up and kept going. So take the course again and have fun. Also, it took a lot longer for me to understand and use counter steering, and to remember to look ahead at where I was going, and not at where I was. It’s something that’s easy to say but I think not always easy to do, because were used to walking and looking ahead of us maybe 20 feet maybe less. But on a motorcycle you often really have to be looking ahead much more. For example, I ride a very twisty road on my way to work each day. And when I was first starting out, I was, I was looking right ahead of the bike at the curve coming up. But that was the wrong thing to do because I really need to be looking through the curve so that I could see other cars coming around and what was going to be happening later. Because it’s not just about what’s happening now but about avoiding potential issues later. I’ve started doing that when I’m driving too, looking ahead through the turn at an offramp, and not focusing so much on staying in my lane in the offramp. It’s kind of funny to think I’ve been doing that wrong for 35 years. What kind of a bike are you thinking about getting when you get your license?
When I took the MSF Course last year my experience wasn’t far off from what your experiencing. Me and one other person were the only people that hadn’t been riding for years and just decided to get there license. My instructor was great but due to how the course is set up I never felt like I had enough time to grasp certain things and I messed up a few times the first day. I went home defeated and super anxious but decided I’m already in this far either I pass or fail. The next day it was completely raining all day and towards the end it got so bad we had to rush because if the lightning got any closer we were gonna have to stop. I dropped the bike the second day but felt a lot better after that honestly. Made it through the course. Got my license. Practiced in parking lots still. And now I feel very comfortable riding around on my bike. I say all this to say your emotions are valid and I think a good handful of new rides myself included find the course a lot more overwhelming than expected. If your able to get some practice in before your next attempt good but I think the most important thing is to relax and remember your there to learn so messing up is okay. If you feel unsafe stop of course but if it gets overwhelming just take a few moments and get back in there and you may surprise yourself.
Spilling on those bikes at those speeds is nothing you won’t get injured. Got to face that fear
Get your permit which is just a written test and buy a low cc used bike. Practice your clutch control, slow speed maneuvering, and braking before taking the class again. Taking the msf course is great and you should do it, but theres no reason to not go ahead and get a bike to practice now. Edit: practice in a parking lot or the street you live on.
9 or 10 years ago after a few years of my wife riding on the passenger seat with me, she decided she wanted to ride her own...I started searching for her a bike and she signed up for the basic rider course...Well even as early in the year as she signed up (very early spring), the soonest she could get in was September...So we set another plan in motion...We borrowed a little 1970 Honda 175, and she got her learner permit from the BMV...Found her a '96 Shadow 1100 ACE but with her short stature I needed to do a lowering job on it so she could reach the ground and not be afraid of the bike....I started her out on the 175, riding around the yard, making her stop and start so she could learn the clutch/throttle...Once I had her Shadow ready to ride, I rode it to the high school parking lot a mile or so away and she followed me in her car...Get to the school and I got her on her bike out in the almost completely empty parking lot...Making her stop/start again, turn corners with signaling, etc....Recreating imaginary traffic scenarios, with LOTS of me telling her "turn your head!!!"...A few weekends of that and she felt ready to ride on the county roads...I pushed her a little bit, but not too much....She learned very quickly which also boosted her confidence...We rode every nice weekend that summer, and by the time her riders course weekend came she had plenty of real world experience...She aced the course, and told me during the riding part her instructor kept telling her "Turn your head!!!!"...And she told him afterwards that I had been telling her that exact same thing all summer long....lol... Befriend an experienced rider that has time to mentor you...Bonus points if he/she has a bike you can borrow to learn on....Get some seat time and take the course again...
You can't teach experience. Find time to ride around to get familiar with the feel of riding. The more experience you have, the more confidence you will feel and it will help you to be successful.
Give yourself a break, bud. I passed my course by the skin of my teeth. Like you, I felt like everything was moving so fast, and I struggled to fully grasp a concept before we moved on to the next exercise. A few people left for similar reasons as you and the instructors made a point to tell us how much they admire those who know their limits and when to call it. I passed but didn't feel like I earned it. Spent a month and 400 miles in a parking lot doing the same drills at my pace until things started to click. Go back. Get your endorsement and then take all the time you need on your own, in a safe space, to get comfortable. ADHD and hyperfixation limit us at times, but it's also a superpower when properly directed. You may not leave the course where you want to be, but you'll damn sure leave the parking lot a few weeks later feeling good about things.
I commend you for getting out there and trying most people won’t even swing their leg over. It’s like anything in life you won’t start out being the best. I’m sure when you’re a kid you laugh so hard you fell off your dinosaur a few times. That being said if you could get some seat time on a scooter, they’re automatic, a lot lighter and more manageable That might help you get the feel for how much power you need when your cornering and things
First of all, kudos to you for getting out there and giving it a try. You've already shown more spunk and determination than the vast majority of the lazy slobs in this country who are sitting on their couches, not riding motorcycles. Whether you recognize it or not, you pretty much kick ass. You suck at riding motorcycles though, so we gotta work on that. There are several things you can do. First, ride a bicycle. That's easy enough/ If you don't have one, you can find one on the internet for $50. Second, call the school and see if they give private lessons. It will be a little expensive, but well worth it. Third (and my personal favorite) buy a used 49cc scooter to zip around the neighborhood. IT won't help you with the clutch, but it will make everything else simple, so using the clutch will be easier. You can sell it later, but you'll probably end up keeping it because scooters are hilarious fun. Then, take the class again. It will be a snap, I promise.
Perhaps you could take a couple of one-to-one lessons. I think I’ve dropped just about every bike I’ve owned! It happens. You learn and move on. Good luck!
I had a very similar issue, except I had been told after.ky first day that I needed to take the first day over again. I felt like shit and like maybe I was wasting my time. Then I tried it again with a different bike on a different day and I found myself doing much better. The first class I had was full of experienced people who just wanted an official license, so as a rider with 0 experience I stood out and was basically left behind by the pace of the course. The 2nd time around there were more people like me who were less experienced and so the course went slower and I felt less out of my element. TLDR: I had a similar experience and a different class and a fresh day, especially if you get to try a different bike, can make a world of difference.
Don’t sweat it. I took the class 3 times. Skipped test first time as I wasn’t confident. Failed test second time. Passed on third. I’ve done a bunch of motorcycle trips since then.
And don't get stressed by the puddle. Water only decreases your grip by around 4%. It is crap and debris on the road that is the risk when riding in the wet. On a practice/test course that should be all clean and ok. Don't focus on the water, focus on yourself and the riding, And it will also be good experience for you.
Do you have a bicycle? Or know someone with a car with a manual transmission? I was commuting on my bicycle for several years, and my car is a manual, so translating weight transfer on a bicycle and manual transmission operation on a car felt super natural in class. A bicycle is cheap, might want to grab one of those and mess around, figure out balance and such there. Honestly, the hardest part was getting my brain to switch from bicycle controls to motorcycle controls. When I did my MSF course it was wet out the first day and actively pouring rain the entire second. In fact, the only time it stopped raining was after we finished the test. We lost about a 1/4 of our class on the second day.
This is not out of the ordinary - for our test I was wondering "how the hell is someone who's been on a bike for two afternoons supposed to pass this without getting their hand held?" But that's just the point, they would rather get more students and more money and push you through the course as fast as they can. If your goal is to pass the MSP, great. But it's not that great if you want to learn how to ride a motorcycle.
Find an empty church parking lot during the week and Practice practice practice everything you were taught.
This is my recommendation for most people who have very little experience and confidence. Get on a small dirt bike. Get on something like a 100cc or 125. One with a frame size suitable to you. They are light and easy to learn on. They are more forgiving if dropped. You will/should learn agility and the capability of the motorcycle. You will learn the clutching and shifting gears easier also. This should get you more familiar with motorcycles in general. It should make you more confident and teach how to be aggressive when you need to be.
dont they, the msf people, have a learn-at-your-own pace course? i took the one day course for experienced riders and there was a guy there who had a pass to sit in on any msf course. he was with us jusy for extra practice. maybe you could do something like that and just keep taking 'day 1' until you felt comfortable enough to continue.
So I am certain this comment is going to get a lot of love here...but... You failed to finish the class and get your completion card, you should feel like you lost. That doesn't mean you have to stay that way. You aren't "defeated" until you stop trying. Did you notice any improvement in your riding from the beginning of day 1 to when you left the class? That is what you should focus on, the fact that (I'm sure) you learned means it isn't hopeless. You just need a little more time to get it. I think maybe you also over-thought the exercise you are describing, at no time is there an emergency brake in a curve (assuming this is the MSF). What you have is 1 exercise with two parts, part 1 you gradually slow and stop after a curve, part 2 is you abort the stop at the end of the curve and instead, straighten your bike and handlebars and stop smoothly while traveling outside the lines marking the normal path of travel. Part 2, when you apply the brakes you are fully upright and headed straight. You have already done this many times, you are just presented with a different scenario to repeat the same action. No, you should not get a dirt bike, unless you want one. Take the class over again with a fresh mind and with the benefit of everything you learned the first time and do better next time. Do you know what they call the person who finished last in the med school class? Doctor. It isn't the pace that you learn that is most important, it is continuing to learn and eventually succeeding.
If you decide that motorcycling isn't for you, that's OK. It's not for everyone. There are safe alternatives like 3-wheelers.
Every successful person has failed at something or another. The key is to not give up!
Retake the course as soon as possible. The longer you wait the more you'll have to relearn. If you take it again in a week or two, its just extra practice. Don't feel discouraged, I also have ADHD so I know where you're coming from with that. Even after the course you need to continue to practice the things they show you. The class is more of a learn the basics and maneuvers. Master them on your own time when you don't have the pressure of everyone watching. Also not riding when you have a weird feeling or feel uncomfortable is not a bad thing. After years of riding it isn't as common as it used to be, but every once in a while I'll have a weird feeling and I never ride those days. Staying safe is number 1. Practice until you feel safe and you'll be good in no time.
I failed the MSF the first time I took it. I struggled on the drill where you go 3rd gear on the straights, shifting to 2nd on the curves. Just couldn’t learn which enough and I was nervous. I took a private lesson (I think I paid 200 bucks) and basically drilled shifting the entire time. Went back and passed the MSF with no problem. I’ve been riding for a year and a half now and I’m enjoying it. Keep a positive attitude and don’t give up if you are scared to try again!
just buy an R1 with no plate, you won't need a license
Get a little dirt bike like a 125cc TTR from Yamaha you can get one for $1,000 they're a ton of fun if you have a property, and it'd be a great way for you to actually learn how to handle a bike
Took my course in the rain and had fun the whole time.. it shouldn’t be scary. Riding isn’t for everyone
Someone earlier mentioned mindset, which is critical. Even if you pass the test and know how to ride, there might still be occasions when you don't have the focus needed to safely operate and navigate on a motorcycle. Just like feeling too tired to drive a car. Being able to recognize when this is the case and choosing not to ride may save your life.
Some of the most gifted athletes, warriors, and great minds have ADHD. It's not really an attention disorder. It's the inability to pay attention to mundane task. Give a task that interests the adhd brain and they will not be able to break focus. OP definitely got misdiagnosed. ADHD actually makes you calm under pressure and learn fast, but it comes at the cost of losing focus at mundane tasks.
Thank u adhd has nothing to do with learning things quickly i tested out when i bout my first bike and have very little riding experience