There are few methods of getting around town that are more exhilarating than on the saddle of a motorcycle. The ultimate sense of unbridled freedom coupled with the perceived elements of danger is just too attractive for some people. But if you get that Top Gun bug and need to feel the speed of two wheels powered by a mammoth engine, then you will need to apply for a separate M class license or endorsement.

This is not the easiest license to get, especially for those without any basic motorcycle skills. Some find the on-bike skills test rather daunting, while other may fret over the written exam.

The state publishes a Motorcycle Operator Manual that provides an overview of the testing process and the rules of the road. It also has a variety of topics on motorcycle safety and handling. But even the best prose in the world cannot make up for actual time on the bike. Unlike the four-wheeled brethren, it is hard to get proper training on the motorcycle.

It is not like regular driver's education classes take time from teaching the important learning needed for operating a car to focus on the motorcycle. That is an entirely different skill set, minus general knowledge of traffic rules.

Lastly, Increasing Motorcycle Awareness is a brochure full of tips and handy suggestions for safely sharing the road with motorcycles.

You'll need the Adobe Reader software to access the PDF files of the manual and the brochure. You can download the free software if you don't already have it.

You'll find more motorcycle-related information at Motorcycle License and
Motorcycle Registration on this site.

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