Once you have decided you want to learn to ride a motorcycle, talk to some experienced riders to learn a bit more about riding. Then, find information on the statewide motorcycle safety organization, SMART (Smart Motorcyclists Attend Rider Training). Find a local motorcycle dealership and ask for information on any scheduled rider trainings.
Look up SMART on the internet. Their webpage lists all trainings scheduled for the year. Information on Kansas laws that pertain to motorcycles are listed on the site also.
There are several things to consider when you select a rider training course. Trainings are offered in different ways. Most rider trainings last a full weekend, Friday evening to Sunday evening, while others are a few hours per session and take several weeks to complete. When you complete some rider trainings, you are automatically licensed in Kansas. While other trainings you attend will still require that you take a written and riding test to become licensed.
When you attend rider training, proper clothing is required. Make sure you have gloves (leather or other sturdy material,) long sleeves (even if it is hot; SMART requires long sleeves), sturdy shoes or boots and a helmet.
Bring sunscreen, because you will be out in the weather for most of the day on Saturday and Sunday.
Bring a cooler with something to drink if you are taking your rider training course in the hot part of the year.
Be prepared to work hard during your rider training. It can be a great deal of fun, but you will be tired at the end of the day.
Pay attention to what your instructors are saying. It should go without saying, but at the end of the day when students and instructors are tired it is easy to miss important information.
Get ready for the ride of your life. Once you are bitten by the motorcycle bug, life is never the same.
