Comments on: California Motorcyclists Training in Record Numbers

By: Mike

Mike — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 16:44:26 +0000

The only way to make drivers/riders better is to change attitudes. The only way to change attitudes is to change something related to that attitude. Maturity sometimes helps. My comment about steep license prices and frequent retesting changes getting a driver’s license from a perceived ‘right’ to the privilege that it is. It makes it be something to strive for, and precious to possess, and keep, not something that is frivolous and easy to obtain. And don’t give the money to the Gov’t, they will just p*ss it away like always. Have the DMV Organize it to go to a charity/hospital/cancer research etc.

As for the training, I have 22 years on the road on a bike, and have taken many rider/driver training courses, as well as performance track only courses, and I just about always learn something new. It is never a waste of money.

By: Dorzok

Dorzok — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:20:46 +0000

Straight off of http://www.dmv.ca.gov and the reason for increased MSF registration.

To apply for your motorcycle Class M1 or M2 license, you must do one of the following:

If you are under 21, you must complete a motorcycle rider training course given by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and provide a certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389) to DMV to be issued your license. You will not be required to take the motorcycle driving test at DMV if you currently have a California Drivers License.

If you are over 21, you may either choose to complete the course by CHP and provide the certificate OR schedule an Appointment(s) at DMV to take the driving test. (You may also call 1-800-777-0133 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, to make a driving test appointment.) You have three chances to pass the test.

By: Dorzok

Dorzok — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:13:34 +0000

I’ve been saying for years that EVERYONE should be REQUIRED to ride a motorcycle for a minmum of 3 years before they can even get a license for a car. Would raise everyone’s awareness of motorcycles. It would put more bikes on the road making a larger presence. With so few number of bikes on the road today it’s easy to see why people aren’t looking for them. Also strict limits on the size of bike can be had based on experience and or demonstration. I believe I read somewherw that a study shows an alarming number of accidents that do not involve another vehicle. THIS could be lack of experience or just reckless operation.

By: Dirk

Dirk — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:50:33 +0000

I’m with robotribe, the training was dumbed-down a few years ago to help new bike sales. The industry has had a big effect on this. I’ve personally worked with a couple of people I know who passed the course and were only about 25% ready in my opinion to get anywhere near real-world riding.

By: FREEMAN

FREEMAN — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:50:01 +0000

I agree with Clive and previous commenter (Sasha) on the original post. Having the government rob you of money does not solve anything. It’s all a matter of personal responsibility. Furthermore, you can’t force that responsibility on others. It’s up to you and you alone to ride/drive responsibly and everything else is out of your control. No legislation or education will ever change that.