Photo courtesy: cedarposts.blogspot.com

It has been discussed here several times, at least once by me, that some potholes in this city are nothing shy of craters.  I have seen massive holes in the roads during fair weather seasons, but nothing compares to the damage done by a violent winter.  This winter was more violent than most, and we are now seeing the effects of the DOTs harsh treatment of the roads, presumably, in order to make them drivable, after the snow melts.  The irony that the DOT’s actions create more dangerous conditions, in an effort to make us all safer, does not escape me.  Especially as I have approached a pothole at speed, barely escaping it’s depth.

I am not here to b*%ch and moan about the potholes again (although I would love to vent, for the 4537th time).  These road condition have highlighted a safety measure that I am having a hard time adhering to.  When I took the MSS safety course, one of the lessons that stood out to me most, and which I have tried to practice regularly, is the ‘four and two second rule.’  The simple act of picking a stationary point in the distance (parked car, telephone pole), and counting the seconds between you and the car immediately in front of you.  This lesson has stuck with me, above all others, because it seems the easiest way to prevent unforeseen issues, which could lead to horrible, horrible things.  Ideally, you would have four seconds between you and the car ahead.  At worst, you should never get closer than two seconds.  I believe the goal of the MSS instructor was to prevent rear-ending someone. But an added benefit would be to have a clearer view of the road ahead.

So, in my daily riding, I make sure that I (of course) keep an eye on the car in front of me, but also to occasionally count off the distance, adjusting my speed and open space accordingly.  Therein lies the problem.  On the streets of New York, in the type of congested traffic we typically deal with, allowing even two seconds between us and the car ahead, is incredibly difficult.  I think that I give in to the pressure of angry horns, urging me to move before it’s safe, pressuring me to follow closer than I feel comfortable with.  The bottleneck of cars that I encounter, on almost every ride, offers very little in the way of safe space between me and ANY car.  Not behind, parked or at crossings, let alone the one ahead of me.  Often, I find myself instinctively beginning to count…”one Mississippi, two….”  That’s it.  That’s all I get.  Maybe I need to use a different state?

This brings up our old nemesis, the pothole.  I have found that there is very little chance of me spotting these craters, when I am tailing so close behind.  The reaction time is now limited, and I have merely split seconds to react.  Thus far I have avoided these disasters-in-waiting, but I feel my time is coming.  The other day, on an entrance ramp (when most of us would be concentrating on the merging traffic ahead, I realized I had entered a gauntlet of holes, no less than 10″ deep, about the size of a basketball.  There is no way, and I mean NO WAY, my bike would have remained upright, had I hit one of these chasms.  They were spaced perfectly to eat scooter tires, allowing only the slightest room for error.  Fortunately, I barely avoided the tragedy that awaited me, but felt the sting of nerves, for the remainder of the trip home.

Although there is now an easier way to report road condition problems through the 311 service, the rate at which these issues are solved is never going to prevent us having to deal with them.  So, best to take safety measures into our own hands.  The solution: well, I’m not sure there really is one.  If, like me, you cave to the pressure of the traffic surrounding you, there is a very good chance that you will encounter one of these holes.  If, unlike me, you can resist the honking and pressure, you will be safer for it, and have a fighting chance at safely getting through this season of splits in the road.  Keep an eye out, and a safe distance between….it’s about the only thing we can do.

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Being that I have never ventured more than 10 miles from my Brooklyn home, I began the process of listing the things I needed, the supplies I should have on hand, and general preparation for what promised to be a great trip.  I am certainly someone who can get carried away with my lists, and this time was no exception.  My main concern was the idea of taking a 48 year old scooter so far from my home base, and the mechanical issues that might arise.  I have read countless stories about roadside repairs.  Laying the bike on it’s side to change a flat tire, changing out a snapped clutch cable in the dark, and inevitably, all these things done in the pouring rain.  The week prior to the trip I had decided to change out the rear brakes, clean the hub and adjust the front brakes, lube the cables, and make sure that I had the correct spare parts for various problems that played themselves out in my head, like a horror film.

Here is a sample of my prepare (paranoid) list:

Tools (various screwdrivers, ratchets, pliers, wrenches, 4th hand tool), extra cables, cable lube, spare light bulbs, WD-40, lock washers, spare bolts, 2-stroke oil, flashlight, camera, sunscreen, Advil, water, sweatshirt, dry clothes, bungees, GPS, container to hold all this crap, locks….  All this would be stuffed into my rear basket, and the small storage in the cowl.

Well, here’s how it played out: I took my first trip into Manhattan via the 59th Street Bridge, up town and across the island through the park.  Got to the predetermined meeting spot about 40 minutes early, and waited.  The gang all showed up, and after a brief round of introductions, we headed off north, to Westchester County and the infamous Oddscoot day at Tom & Anna’s.

At the end of the ride, I used exactly two things from my list.  The water, and of course the camera.  Clocked in at about 100 miles on the day, and the whole trip went off without a hitch.  Did I overdo it with the supplies?  Yes, but let’s just chalk it up to peace of mind.  Or neurosis, your pick.

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Okay, okay, so it's not New York. You just passed the first perception test question.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has put up two great online Rider Perception tests that challenge your ability to judge dangerous situations on the road, as well as recognize traffic signs.  You have the choice to see the tests at slow, medium and fast speeds.  The first test flashes 20 street signs, one at a time, followed by a multiple choice question, requiring your to identify the sign.  The second test flashes photos of “collision traps” allowing you a short time to evaluate the scene, and then a multiple choice question to test your ability to read the hazards.  If you decide to retake the Collision Trap test, there are another series of photos provided for you.

The page also has a list of ‘perception facts,’ that explains the importance of our perception of road conditions, situations and street markings.

You can find the tests here. Take the tests and let us know how you get along.

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Taking a break during last year's Basic RiderCourse

The value of the Motorcycle Safety School’s MSF Basic Rider Course has been previously covered on this site by Paul, but having just completed it, I feel it bears repeating.  Great course, great instructors, great value.  I first became aware of the course through this website, and after reading up on it, learned that it not only offers a way to improve a rider’s skills, but also provides the road test resulting in a waiver, which eliminates the need to schedule a DMV road test.

I signed up for the two day course, although a two and half day course was available.  I wanted to get right down to it, so why not nail it in two days?  Well, if you are like me, the idea of getting up at 5:15am, is reason enough to choose the other option.  The classes are given in the South Bronx.  An easy subway ride on the 6 train delivers you to an open lot, which includes a riding range, and a construction trailer where the classroom lessons are given. Although I plan on riding a scooter, at this time, the course is only given on matching Suzuki 250cc motorcycles.

The first day started (early!) with the first classroom section, complete with DVD lessons, as well as a manual containing questions, which we worked in teams to complete.  That first day was very basic, but covered some important subjects nonetheless.  There were sections regarding proper clothing, basic motorcycle controls, proper body positioning, as well as how to position yourself in traffic.  All of these are important factors to riding, but the most potent subject for me was the concept of Risk.  Our instructor made very clear that as 2-wheel riders in this city (or anywhere, but especially in THIS city), we must be:

A) aware of the risk involved
B) accept the risk involved and,
C) manage the risk involved.

A sobering concept, if ever there was one.  You have decided to embark on a hobby, or a form of commuting transportation, which could result in bodily harm.  Cars offer that possibility of harm as well, but less so.  Cars offer a sense (perhaps falsely) of security and safety.  On a scooter or motorcycle, you are out there in the elements, with nothing but your wits and your gear to protect you.  A sobering concept indeed.

That first day concludes with on-the-range riding.  The entire class saddles up on the bikes, and runs through some drills, now with two instructors helping and evaluating us.  The skills are basic, but geared toward creating a sense of awareness and confidence.  Having been riding for my scooter for a couple months with my permit, and my ancient history of riding motorcycles, I felt some of the riding lessons were too basic.  But slowly, we all start to recognize the importance of the ‘safe ride.’  Little by little, our instructors guide us through the steps to control the bikes, and more importantly, to learn not to THINK about the steps we are taking, but to just instinctively DO them.  It seemed to me that I was transferring the knowledge from my brain to my gut, and learning to react without over-thinking, making me a more competent rider, for myself and those around me.  We conclude day one, feeling good about our rides, and excited to get back out there the next day, which will culminate in the road test.  At this point, I am feeling confident about my skills, and feel that after the final lessons, I will have no trouble with the test.

Bright and early again, I make it to the school with 45 minutes to spare.  I have become friendly with some of my classmates, and we discuss the previous day’s lessons, and what we think the test will include at the end of the day.  We are all visibly excited, but maybe just a tad nervous as well.  Back in the classroom, we delve deeper into awareness, defensive riding, and overall ‘street strategies.’  We wrap up with a 50 question written test, and I have no problem doing well, having thoroughly covered the material in the past two days.  After a break for lunch, we are back on the bikes, and more lessons, more practice, more drills.  My handling skills are being honed, with productive comments from the instructors, even after I complete what feels like perfect maneuvers.  I am starting to retain more concepts, without thinking too much.  I am feeling good about this test.

Throughout the drills, my biggest weakness had been slow maneuvers.  Doing figure-8 type patterns within a small box has proven difficult for me, and I am getting nervous about this section of the test.  At about 2pm I realize I have skipped eating the sandwich I bought earlier, and recognize that I am becoming spacey, and less focused than I am comfortable with.  Good lesson: make sure you are as healthy and strong as possible, before getting on a bike.  There is no need to push the limits of your body and mind, just as you would not ride your favorite scooter without proper fuel.  I eat quickly, and feel much better.  Time to get prepared for the test. The instructors let us know which portions will be graded for the waiver.  We are given the opportunity to practice these parts, just prior to the test beginning.  At this point I feel confident that I can pass each section, except the figure-8s.  And that’s exactly what I did.  After two full days of practice, lessons, testing and critique, I have passed the road test for the State of New York.  I am proud, but more so, very aware of the skills that riding on the streets of this city entail.

Overall, I am very pleased to have paid the money for this course.  Although I could have obtained a license cheaply through the DMV, I now appreciate the extra care the instructors take to ensure our safety.  I feel more confident about my basic skills, and the skills I will improve as I ride, with these lessons always in the back of my mind – and most importantly, in my gut.

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Taking a break during last year's Basic RiderCourse

We’ve just gotten word from the folks at New York’s Motorcycle Safety School that this year’s season will begin next month on the first.

The MSS offers a number of motorcycle and scooter orientated beginner and safety classes, most prominent of which being the nationally recognized Motocycle Safety Foundation Basic RiderCourse. The three day course based at the MSS’s center in Mott Haven in the Bronx combines classroom and motorcycle range lessons and culminates in an on-site exam that allows participants to waive the need to take a DMV motorcycle test.

New this year, following some extended delays last season: Folks who pass the test will be given their test waivers on the spot, allowing them to walk into the DMV immediately and get licensed.

You can read all about my experiences with the Basic RiderCourse here and here.

For more information on the Basic RiderCourse and more, visit ridemss.com or call 718-599-1079.

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The event is free and is taking place at Vespa Soho‘s Croby Street location, tomorrow Saturday, Sept 19th 1pm -2pm. Space is limited, so a RSVP to Cvera@ridemss.com is necessary. MSS is still running it’s three-day Basic Rider Course until December 15th so you still have a chance to get your license this year, especially with the news that test-waiver certificates no longer require a wait period.

Vespa Soho will also be offering 20% off all accessories during the event.

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6 weeks or so since taking the MSS 3 day Basic Rider Course, and 2 and a half months or so since beginning the entire process, here I am street legal. Finally.

I headed to the DMV on Greenwich downtown this morning and was in and out within 15 minutes even though I arrived to a long line. It was a simple matter of taking my test-waiver card, my learner permit license and a completed MV-44 to change over my D car license to a DM joint car/motorcycle license. I was issued with the temporary license above.

I’d already picked up the scoot from Andrew at Vespa Brooklyn on Saturday within an hour of getting my test-waiver in the mail and rode back the 30 minute or so journey home and did another run briefly yesterday, both were pure pleasure, but now I’m clear to do so without looking over my shoulder.

If I learned one thing through this entire process is that it took a lot longer than I imagined, but as my girlfriend pointed out over the weekend, perhaps this is one process that shouldn’t be rushed.

I’ll be writing over the coming weeks of my trials and tribulations actually having to ride on the streets of NYC for the first time. See you out there!

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6 weeks to the day, my test waiver finally arrives. You’ll forgive me for blurring the details. True to the email update I got from MSS, it arrived the first week the DMV started issuing them for ’09.

Man, what a wait. It’s Saturday, which means I can’t take this to the DMV to get my full license until Monday, but I’m going to take the risk and head off to Vespa Brooklyn with this in hand and hope the cops are spending the day at Dunkin’ Donuts. I’ve waited long enough.

2009 S150 here I come…

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After completing the course we were told to expect to wait 3-4 weeks but “it usually arrives sooner.” Further calls with MSS responded with a 4-5 week wait then a 6-8 week wait (where I stand now).

Finally, I have an update, but still no guarantee of a date in the form of MSS’s email below:

We recently received an update from the NYS DMV on the status of Basic RiderCourse road test waivers. The DMV informed us that road test waivers for the BRC will be mailed out this week in the order of course dates, beginning with the first course of the season and moving forward.

Please be advised that because this is a new process, we do not know what the mail with the road test waiver will look like. Therefore students will need to carefully review their mail to make sure they do not discard the waiver.

Thanks for your ongoing patience with the DMV/MSF transition.

I have to say at this point that I still feel that the guys at MSS did a fantastic job with the actual training but feel thoroughly misled on how long this process was going to take, even taking in to account the fact that they are in the process of a red-tape transition here. Course instructors skirted the issue of how long this was going to take, only stating 3-4 weeks once our group had completed the course.

Of further interest is that when I called the DMV a couple of weeks back their representative seemed to think that the DMV had “nothing to do with” the test waiver and that it was issued by the MSF. Curious indeed.

Hopefully if you’re signed up to take the course in the next few weeks you won’t have anywhere near as long to wait now that New York State DMV considers the 2009 riding season to be official open.

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You can watch the news segment here.

As the report rightly notes, while a scooter with a top speed of 35mph may well be street legal, it’s the responsibility of the rider not to take it on major roads where keeping up with the traffic flow will be a problem.

In addition, Denver police are appealing to local (and potential) scooterists to participate in a motorcycle safety course like NYC’s very own MSS in addition, of course, to wearing appropriate safety apparel.

So please folks, unless you’re out there delivering take-out. Don’t take anything less than a 150cc onto the mean streets of the Big Apple. You’re going to need that additional 100cc to pull you out of the city’s snarling junctions.

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