First Ride: Additional Information

This two-hour experience provides students with an opportunity to become familiar with a motorcycle or scooter and its controls in a low-risk, controlled environment. It is designed for the student who has no riding experience and is not sure whether they should take formal training. It is a unique opportunity to get a feeling for the physical requirements of operating a motorcycle and is a no-pressure way to experience how a motorcycle clutch works and how it differs from that of a car or truck.

Many students find the First Ride beneficial in determining their next steps in their motorcycle education journey. Students will not learn how to ride a motorcycle or scooter but will experience its operational characteristics through an initial hands-on experience, allowing them to consider the possibility of formally learning to ride.

Students should consider themselves successful in this course whether they choose to continue learning to ride or not. This experience does not guarantee success in the Basic RiderCourse (BRC). Group size is limited to four students and one First Ride RiderCoach. A motorcycle permit is not required for this introductory course.

Meet the coach in HVCC Parking Lot F. If you enter from North Road, Lot F is the first parking lot on your left. Plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to the start of your class.

What to Bring

Documents

• Valid NYS Driver License and a photocopy of it. (We can make copies in class.)
• Please review, print, and sign the following documents and bring them with you to class:
  • Motorcycle Safety Course waiver and indemnification form (PDF)
  • Completed student information form (PDF)
  Blank copies will be available in class if you do not have access to a printer.
• Any student under 18 years of age MUST have the waiver signed by a parent/guardian in front of a RiderCoach, or it must be signed by a parent/guardian and notarized prior to the start of the course. Failure to adhere to this requirement will result in the student not being permitted to ride. No refund will be given.

Required Riding Gear

• DOT-approved helmet (loaner helmets available) — full-face recommended
• Eye protection — helmet shield, glasses, or sunglasses
• Full-fingered gloves
• Over-the-ankle boots (no sneakers; no heels more than 1")
• Long-sleeve shirt or jacket and sturdy long pants (jeans with no holes; no leggings)
• Wear layers and bring rain gear. We ride rain or shine, hot or cold. Light colors are better. If you cannot tolerate heat, register for a course in a cooler month.

Water and Snacks

• Bring 8 oz. of water for each hour of class.
• A wet rag to cool your face and neck is a good idea.

Attendance and Timing

YOU MUST BE ON TIME: Class will begin PROMPTLY at the start time. Students must be checked in, appropriately attired, and ready to go. It is highly recommended that students arrive 15–30 minutes early.

Day of Class

You will report to HVCC, Parking Lot F. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled class.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the MSF First Ride?

A: The MSF First Ride is designed to be an experience, not a training course. Participants are not taking this program to learn to ride. The only objective is to experience a motorcycle’s operational characteristics through an initial hands-on experience in a low-risk, controlled environment. The purpose is to allow the participant to consider the possibility of formally learning to ride. Each participant will have his or her own unique experience.

Q: Does it matter how tall I am?

A: If you have a short inseam (less than 28" to the ground with boots), please call ahead to be sure we have a motorcycle that will “fit” you.

Q: Is the First Ride a formal training event?

A: No. This is not a course for learning to ride, but rather an introductory experience to become familiar with a motorcycle, its controls, and their operation. This program is a success whether or not a participant chooses to continue learning to ride. If a participant chooses to continue, the experience will help them recognize the need for formal training.

Q: Will the First Ride provide a licensing test waiver or completion card?

A: No. Completion of the First Ride experience will give the participant information needed to determine if they wish to proceed with formal training for licensing.

Q: Who should take the First Ride?

A: The experience is designed for anyone interested in becoming more familiar with a motorcycle and its basic controls. Having no motorcycling experience as an operator is preferred.

Q: Is balancing a two-wheeler (bicycle) required?

A: No. Participants do not ride in the First Ride.

Q: How many participants can attend at one time?

A: This event allows for a maximum of four participants with one First Ride RiderCoach.

Q: Is there any classroom work in the First Ride?

A: No. This event is conducted on the First Ride range.

Q: Are the personal protective gear requirements the same as the BRC?

A: Yes. Please wear the protective gear listed on page 1 of this document (helmet, gloves, boots, etc.).

Q: Should I sign up for the Basic RiderCourse (BRC) at the same time?

A: You may, but it is not required. If you choose to register for the BRC, you should select a course date that is at least two weeks after your First Ride. Please refer to the Motorcycle Cancellation and Refund Policy for important information should you need to withdraw from a class.

Contact

Any questions? Contact Capital Area Rider Training LLC Site Administrator Maggie McNally at (518) 857‑2099 or info@518rider.com.

Revised February 2026