After 2 1/2 years riding on a permit, and a ton of excuses, I finally took my riding test. I got my permit in the Springs, and kept putting off taking the test for one reason or another, mainly because only one DMV offered it. Now that I live in Denver, I went the third-party tester route, and wish I would have done it sooner!
If you're putting off, or completely blowing off getting your license, I'm going to try to give you all of the info you need to get legal.
Here is a link to the Colorado DMV requirements for getting a license, and a list of third party testers.
http://www.revenue.state.co.us/mv_di...drli/faqdrli22
Basically read the handbook (posted below) and take the written test. Passing this will get you your Motorcycle Instruction Permit. It is good for 3 years, but has limitations (no passengers, riding at night, and must have a licensed rider in the group-not sure if it's still all of these). If you're under 18, you need to have this permit for one year before you get your motorcycle endorsment.
Here's a link to the Motorcycle Operator's Handbook:
http://www.revenue.state.co.us/MV_di...f/motorcyc.pdf
It is a useful guide to riding, and prepares you for both the written and riding tests.
Next, schedule with a 3rd party tester (highly recommended for more experienced riders or self-studyers), a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course (another great way, with a wealth of info), or the DMV to take the riding course. The last 2 pages of the Motorcycle Operator's Handbook wil guide you through taking the riding test and shows pictures of the course. Once you pass the riding test via one of these methods, all you have to do is go into the DMV to get your license.
Here's a list of Colorado MSF course providers:
http://nm.msf-usa.org/msf/ridercourses.aspx?state=CO
Here's a link to RMHD and Jack Arnold's info (the guy who does the testing).
http://www.rmh-d.com/re/dmv_testing.php
A couple of videos that helped too:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?do...arch&plindex=1
http://video.google.com/videoplay?do...arch&plindex=3
And why a newbie should take a MSF course first:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?do...arch&plindex=8
I was going to rent an enduro bike to take the test, but decided if I'm going to ride a sportbike, why not test my skill? Oh, I would also recommend going to a dealership/DMV during their off hours to practice on the course in their parking lot. It's painted on, and will give you a reality check! Weaving through offset cones at a walking pace isn't as easy as it sounds on a sportbike! The turns are very sharp too. I showed up 20 minutes early and ran the course a few times as well.
I don't mean to preach, but I've seen alot of temp tags around this summer, and hope these riders are taking their freedom to ride very seriously. I know the licensed riders HATE when a cop shows up someone decides to run.
Even if you have a license, continuing your riding education may prevent you from getting hurt or worse. I plan on taking the MSF course soon for my own benefit.
If this info is posted somewhere else, feel free to delete this. And feel free to add anything I forgot! Jeremy
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