consider buying the DVD "Ride Like A Pro ".
consider purchase of some protective gear.

 

consider purchase of:
Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well (Paperback)[/b]
by David L. Hough (Author)

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDfyDRXapKg

 

Sounds like you got a great Dad. My son is 16 and has his first bike also. Learn what they teach in the class, keep riding with Dad and don't be afraid to ask Dad questions. He's not gonna steer you wrong when it comes to bikes.

Dad has a lot of miles still to ride, even better when he's got his kid along on another bike, make him proud. Family Tradition!

 

I agree with what the others said.

Pretty outstanding to have a Harley when you're 17 (and I respect you for buying it yourself.) I didn't have my first until the age of 50.

 

Hello and welcome from Tucson.

Go there with an open mind and no show of attitude and you will do fine.

Keep in mind this class is for people who have never been on a motorcycle before. That means some things might appear to be beneath you but if you have the right attitude you will still come out way ahead.

Good luck.

 

I respect the fact that you bought the bike on your own. Sounds to me like you got a good head on your shoulders. Congrats on the bike!The best advice I can give to you has already been stated by others and that is PAY ATTENTION!. Even though you have been riding a while with your dad and you probably have been riding dirt bikes sinceyou were wearing diapers.
Go to the class with the mindset that you never sat on a motorcycle a day in your life and roll with it because the beginner course is just that. You will more than likely be taking the class with folks who never rode a day in their lives. When I took my course their was a 62 year old woman who's husband had passed and she was always the passenger but she never took the reigns. Her husband took care of that. She wanted to learn how to ride to honor her late husband and quite frankly she missed the open road.

Anyway - pay attention, keep an open mind, have respect for the other students, etc. etc. etc. All the things your mom and dad have taught you and GOOD LUCK

 

As stated before... go to the class with an open mind, and you will be amazed at what you didn't know. MSF instructors will praise you for the good skills you've learned, but will quickly point out the weak ones you've learned.

Whether you've riden around town, or cross country, I can tell you, you WILL be whooped from the 50 miles you ride for the course. Drink lots of water, and PAY ATTENTION

Taking the class is most likely the smartest thing you'll do in life..... until you take the Experienced rider course, and others

 

Just have fun, you will do fine.......

JD

 

Yes, there is a test at the end. THe class work will prepare you for it. Mostly common sense. All of the test answers come out of the class work. Here in Michigan, there is another written test at the DMV, mostly the same stuff. Congrats and Good Luck!!