How does one learn to ride motorcycles?

[brentspeak]

Are there schools or classes set up where people can learn?

How common are bike accidents? My family is afraid I'll get myself killed, and one of my friends tells me I'll "end up as road-pizza" (he has a gift for vernacular).

[MaryBear]

1. One starts

with one motorcycle.

[physioex]

2. Yea take a Course...

The State of WA does offer courses, and does so at a reduced price at several places like community colleges. They are also nice enough to provide motorcycles if you don't have one....Check your state laws.

[bottomofthehill]

3. Take a class

A lot of dealerships offer them. Harley has a great one called riders edge.

[Robb]

4. It's called a Motorcycle Safety Course

"RiderCourse" is the way to go. Check here for one near you.

I finished mine about a month ago, after riding a dirt bike on back roads for maybe another month, although experience is not necessary at all for the course. You learn a lot about how to make the bike go, and how to stay safe.

The fatality rate for a motorcycle per 1,000 drivers is about four times what it is for passenger vehicles. However, 85% of motorcycle riders who die riding have never taken any formal training, e.g. the safety course. Motorcycle riders who have taken the course drop their fatality rate to about 30% less than a passenger vehicle driver.

I adore the bike, and I'm an exceptionally safe rider. Gas savings is absurd; I'm getting 78 mpg on a 250cc dual sport (dirt/road combo). If you can swing it for getting around, it's fantastic.

(On edit): The course takes one weekend, and in most states completion of the course qualifies you for your motorcycle endorsement (the thing on your driver's license that says you're legal on a bike), without taking any additional exams, written or practical.

[ofrfxsk]

5. Please make sure you take a safety course

They are available in almost every county in the country. They start out slowly for beginners so you can decide if you really want to ride. Even experienced riders take those courses.

Otherwise, it's a fucking blast. We've been riding for years and nothing compares.
Please PM me if you have any questions.

http://www.msf-usa.org/

[bridgit]

6. start out slow, look virtually all around you...

take nothing for granted, don't ride like a fool & when you think you know all there is to know about riding a cycle...put it up & stop riding it!! imo