Hi, & My Experiances when learning

[ijmok]

Hi,

Thought I would introduce myself and share my experiences entering into the world of biking.
It all started about 6 weeks ago, as a present (to myself) for finishing my apprentership I decided I would learn to ride, and whilst I can, get my full Direct Access (im 22)
Somewhat of a bold step, being as I’ve never ridden more than a pushbike before, however, my O/H Paid for my CBT and off I went, Honestly my CBT went horribly, some other kid on a 50cc auto seemed to be having an easy time compared to me and my 125 Honda CG, but I did pass and had a cracking day, even if I did feel a little foolish.
At the same time I should of booked my Theory, but hindsight is a wonderful thing, insted I had a lesson or 2 on a 500, and ended up waiting to book my mod 1 because I hadn’t got my Theory sorted.
No biggie, theory came and went, (50/50 & 64/75) I was pleased, much revision and digestion of the Highway code, as well as a few hazard perception clips.
A Few weeks later I went for my Mod 1, my instructor told me I was ready, and I could do all the manoeuvres but I still got a bit Panicked sat waiting.
Good news, I chilled out on the bike and rode as I knew I could. – Passed 0 Minors
Then the push for a Mod 2, I got a cancelation in the end, and only had a lesson on the morning, then a break and test in the afternoon.
Again I was worried, and I know I didn’t do my cleanest ride. But im pleased to say I passed with just 2 minors (a wobbly pull away from the side of the road) yesterday.
So I’ve seen and read so many threads of people worried and fretting.
I can honestly say I enjoyed it immensely, the instructor is worth their weight in gold. They aren’t cheap but if you get a good one, you will save yourself a lot of retest fees.
So that’s me and my Experience with the current testing regime,

As someone who only recently understood what a Cager was, having been one for more than 5 years. I couldn’t honestly say I wouldn’t of wanted less training and tests.
The Mod 1 is less stressed because you only have a well rehearsed routine to do.
The Mod 2 seemed better because I wasn’t worried about manoeuvres
Even the CBT was a fun day and a good introduction to what I was playing with.
Both examiners were great, and it was a markedly different test to my car tens in terms of their attitudes.
So to anyone who is working on it, Be positive, Enjoy it, and try to ignore the negative threads, (that said they do provide an opportunity for those who aren’t so lucky to ask for help and pointers)
One last bit of advice, Nerves were a killer for me, someone told me Chocolate is good to relax you (legally, we’ve all contemplated a shot of whiskey) I found about ½ a bar of G&B 70% was a good quantity
Rob

[dungbug]

Hi Rob,
Very nice write up, despite the few setbacks you got a positive outcome. What bike are you riding?
____________________
CBT: Pass 25/06/2011 Theory Test: Pass12/06/2012 Mod 1: Fail 08/07/2012
Mod 1 Retest: Pass 15/0702012 Mod 2: Pass 03/08/2012
Suzuki GN125 (Sold) ~ Current bike: Yamaha YZF 600R Thundercat

[Rogerborg]

So... bike pics?

Heh, nice one, and I think you went down the right route for you, given your age and the ticking clock to the 3DLD. Now: what bike?
____________________
Biking is 1/20th as dangerous as horse riding.
GONE: HN125-8, LF-250B, GPz 305, GPZ 500S, Burgman 400 // RIDING: F650GS (800 twin), Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 500 AVL, Ninja 250R because racebike

[MCW]

[dungbug]

[ijmok]

Bike Pics?, Not yet I’m afraid,

Soon though, Just as soon as I’ve been paid ill start looking,

Until then I’m reduced to an Ogling Dribbling Wreck

Not 100% sure what ill get yet but something along the lines of a CBR600 F4 ought to keep me in check.

Rob

[Polarbear]

Nice write up that should give some support to those that are struggling with their tests
____________________
Victory Cross Country American tractor.

[ijmok]

New bike made it home yesterday,

No pics at home yet as it was dark
But here’s one from the shop:

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/102319297/CBR%20600/IMAG0002.jpg

2000 (w) CBR600FY, Very tidy, loads of service history, 32100 on the clock with the major service done prior to collection

Really Happy

[MeatHelmet]

Nice one mate. Congrats.

I'm looking at booking my CBT and theory this weekend, then get onto the DAS course.

Really cant wait to be free again! (31 and havent had my own transport for the last 6 years due to money problems)

[GixxerSeth]

Nice write up Rob

I have my Mod 2 on the 5th so can't stop thinking about it
I will definetly have to try the chocolate technique

I think I am a bit like you, get a bit nervous before hand but know that it can be done and was exactly the same for Mod 1. But like you, passed with 0 minors but I'm not doing DAS as am 18
____________________
CBT - Passed Theory - Passed Mod 1 - Passed Mod 2 - Passed

[Matt B]

[ijmok]

Thanks guys,

It felt amazing the ride back from the dealers, all 2 miles of it lol

It’s so bright people are looking all the time (a really good thing in my book)

Only hadn’t linked to my instructor before in case it violated forum rules (admin please remove it its an issue)

I’m based in Cheltenham Gloucestershire,

My instructor was Chris Davis (recommended through a friend) https://www.ccmotorcycletraining.co.uk/

Top Bloke, Very flexible and full of useful advice, only ever on the radio when he can tell you don’t know how to correct it, but leaves you to correct your mistakes if you appear to be making corrective movements, something that I feel is very important

I honestly thought I would struggle to pass before January and fall foul of the new rules.

6 weeks was a real surprise to me, could of been less if I had booked my theory earlier I guess.

But I’m all set to ride off into the sunset now I guess, even if the weather isn’t to encouraging

Thinking ill get myself booked onto a biker safe course April time next year.

A chance to consolidate and get and bad habits corrected (cheap at £25)

Rob

[Rogerborg]

Awesome job, win is off the meter.
____________________
Biking is 1/20th as dangerous as horse riding.
GONE: HN125-8, LF-250B, GPz 305, GPZ 500S, Burgman 400 // RIDING: F650GS (800 twin), Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 500 AVL, Ninja 250R because racebike