Taking the MSF course on the 16th...

So, with my trucks gas costing me $60 a week I decided to finally jump in with both feet and just do it. I signed up for the MSF course and it'll be starting on the 16th. I'm a little nervious...the only time I've ever been on a motorcycle is as a passanger....but I'm excited at the same time, its something I've always wanted to do and now I'm accutally going to get to do it! If there are any tips you can give me before the class starts that would be wonderful. I'm not expecting to pass this time around, and am planning on taking it again in the spring, and probably wont be getting my own motorcycle till late spring next year...I'm useing the course to learn how to ride correctly, and safely, and as a little tiny bit of practice before I go out and start dropping my own bike. Wish me luck!!

Bring your ears and listen. Pay attention to the data and tips.

Come time to ride, wear secure boots. Wear at least good jeans. If you are nervous, wear knee and elbow pads. The helmet and gloves should be standard gear.

You'll do fine, go enjoy yourself. :)

Don't worry about it... you'll pass it fine. The first day will be lectures... try to stay awake and listen to what they're saying. The second day the instructors will push you around on little bikes without even cranking them, just so you can get the feel. The third day, they'll fire the bikes up and let you buzz around the track. By then you'll be an amatuer.

Get used to it, we're all amatuers. 30 years later I'm still an amateur. But at least you're taking the proper route. I'm glad you're taking the course, and take it again every few years just 'cause.

Welcome to the riding world! Watch out left and right for everything that can get in your way. Look for cars, deers, trash, dead animals, anything in the road that can disrupt you. It's a much different experience than driving a car. Be prepared!

Tegan,
If you can try to familiarize with a bike first. When my wife took the course it seemed like where most new riders struggled was clutching and braking. Getting the coordination down and the realization that both arms and both legs now have to play a role in getting you going and getting you stopped takes some practice and patience.
Good Luck. :)

Congrats you are doing the right thing. When my wife came to me and said she wanted to learn to ride I got her the info. for the MSC and told her the rest is up to you. She passed first time without a problem she hadn't learned any of my bad habits.