What to Know Before You Buy Your First Bike – Ep. 4: Should You Take the MSF Course?
Thinking about buying your first motorcycle? Before you twist the throttle, there’s one thing we highly recommend: take the MSF Basic RiderCourse (BRC).
In Episode 4 of our series “What to Know Before You Buy Your First Bike,” we’re breaking down everything you need to know about this game-changing course — from what it includes to why it’s one of the smartest first steps you can take as a new rider.
What is the MSF Course?
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers a nationally recognized course designed specifically for new riders. It teaches core riding skills and safety practices in a low-pressure, controlled environment.
Whether you've never been on a bike before or you're brushing up after years away, the MSF Basic RiderCourse helps you build confidence, awareness, and muscle memory that will stick with you for the long haul.
📍 LOCAL RIDERS:
If you’re located near Parkersburg, WV or Marietta, OH you’re in luck!
The West Virginia Motorcycle Safety Program offers MSF-approved courses locally:
💻 Click here to visit the WVMSP website and register
The Ohio Motorcycle Safety Program offers MSF-approved courses locally:
💻 Click here to visit the OHIO MSF website and register
💡 Want to learn more straight from the source?
The official MSF website is packed with helpful resources, safety tips, rider gear guides, and videos that break down riding techniques step by step. Whether you're just starting or looking to sharpen your skills, it's a must-visit for every rider.
Why Should You Take It?
There are a few big reasons new riders should absolutely consider the MSF course:
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✅ License Waiver: In both Ohio and West Virginia, passing the MSF course allows you to skip the DMV riding exam.
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✅ Insurance Discounts: Most motorcycle insurance providers offer discounts to MSF graduates.
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✅ Safe, Structured Learning: You’ll learn with a certified instructor on a closed course, at your own pace.
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✅ Real Riding Skills: Emergency braking, tight turns, throttle control — these are skills that could save your life one day.
Even if you’ve already been riding, this course helps reset bad habits and introduces safety practices that riders often overlook.
What to Expect
The course typically runs over a weekend or is broken up across a few evenings. It includes:
1. Classroom or Online Instruction
You’ll start with the basics: risk awareness, gear tips, how to interact with traffic, and strategies to be seen on the road.
💡 In both West Virginia and Ohio, the classroom portion may be offered online depending on the location.
2. Hands-On Riding
On a closed course, you’ll practice:
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Starting, stopping, and shifting gears
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Balancing and clutch control
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Turning and cornering at low and moderate speeds
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Emergency braking and swerving
By the end of the course, you’ll take both a written and skills test. Pass both, and you’re ready to head to the DMV and walk out with your motorcycle endorsement.
What Should You Bring?
Even though the bikes are provided, you’ll need to bring your own protective gear. Here's the checklist:
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DOT-approved helmet (loaners often available)
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Long pants — jeans or riding pants
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Long-sleeve shirt or riding jacket
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Full-fingered gloves
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Over-the-ankle boots
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Eye protection — sunglasses, goggles, or helmet visor
Dress for protection, not fashion — even in a parking lot.
Is It Right for You?
Yes — especially if you’re:
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Completely new to motorcycles
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Looking to ride legally and safely
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Getting back into riding after time away
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Transitioning from dirt to street riding
Even if you’ve already got a bike or have been riding casually, the MSF course helps you ride with more awareness, skill, and confidence.
Ready to Ride?
The MSF Basic RiderCourse is hands-down one of the smartest investments you can make as a new rider — and in many cases, it’s the cheapest way to avoid costly mistakes later on.
🎥 WATCH: MSF Course Chat — What to Expect as a New Rider
Want to see what it’s like before you sign up? We’ve got you covered.
In Episode 4 of our “What to Know Before You Buy Your First Bike” video series, we walk through the MSF course step-by-step — with real riders practicing drills in a mock setup so you know what to expect.
▶️ Watch the Full Video Here
Got Questions?
Drop them in the comments below, send us a message, or stop by the dealership — our team is always happy to help guide you on your first ride journey.
🧩 Stay tuned for Episode 5, and until then — ride safe, ride smart.