i have been wanting to learn for a while now but i can only find one place and they wanna charge me $325 for classes! i dont know anyone who has a motorcycle so is there another other option? also, what do i need to get my motorcycle license (or whatever its called)
That $325 course will also serve as your practical test in most states. You would only need to pass a written exam for your licence. If you really can't afford the test, find someone with a dirtbike and a large open field. Do not try to learn on the open roadways! Motorcycling is an expensive sport.
I suppose it could vary by state, but from my experience you first need a drivers license, then you add the motorcycle endorsement to the license. To get the motorcycle endorsement you need to pass a written and riding test. The riding test involves negotiating a series of maneuvers on a course that is painted on a parking lot. Much harder than it sounds. The alternative is to take the MSF class that was mentioned. In the class they teach you how to do all the maneuvers and teach all the material on the written test. At the end of the class you take both the written and riding test while it's all still fresh - then you take your graduation certificate to the DMV and they put the MC endorsement on your license. No testing required at the DMV. Chances of someone with no experience on a motorcycle passing the riding test 0. The other problem is if you buy a MC from a dealer, they won't let you ride it away without the MC endorsement.
Nobody can really teach you how to ride a motorcycle. You learn on your own, by riding. The MSF course is a good idea because they teach you some good safety habits, but you don't learn to ride in a weekend. After the MSF course you go out on your own to learn to ride. That's why you get a learner's permit. But it's not that hard that you need lessons. Get a used bike, get a learner's permit, and ride around slowly in a quiet residential neighborhood until you get the controls memorized, until you don't have to take a split second to remember which is the brake.
