Well, y'all said to take the MSF...

[Alphamazing]

In Texas the price actually varies between $150 and $180. I found a $150 course and took it. All I had for experience was dirt bikes, so the MSF helped a lot. Sure some stuff I knew how to do, but they reinforced it and corrected a few bad habits. Worth it for me.

I did get into an argument with one of my instructors though. He kept saying that bikes could out brake cars. I proved him wrong yet he wouldn't listen.

[John Bates]

MSF here in Ohio is $25. Haven't taken it though. Every class up until november within 2 hours of me is booked up. May take it next spring though. So far I am doing alright on my own.

If you really want to take the class,  go early on the first day, let the instructor know you would like to grab an empty seat if there are any no-shows.   That's how I got in without signing up in advance.

Also, some who didn't win the drawing for a seat on the first day just sat in on the first day and officially got in on the second day after someone dropped out.

Good luck,

[blue05twin]

Took the course at the honda factory like I said it was $250 at the Harley shop that offered the MSF course it was $400.  Pices do very on the cost of the course.

I did get 10% off my insurance for taking the course and was informed that if I took the expericed course I would get another 10% off.  Right now paying 390ish for full coverage on the GS and 490ish on the gsxr per year.

[TarzanBoy]

Some states subsidize the MSF, which is why in some places like PA it is free... and in other places it costs $250+.   Georgia used to subsidize it, but they cut the funding a few years ago and the cost went from $50 to $300.

Sorry to hear about your bad experiences with the course.   The MSF course at the local Honda headquarters here offers an ERC (experienced rider course) that is only $60 (only one day and you use your own bike)... and they also have a dirt bike class (they have a big 'ol mound of dirt out back behind the offices).   I tell all my friends who can afford it to take the basic rider class...  but if you have responsible riders who can teach you the basics (for free) then there is no harm in doing the ERC after you've gotten your license.

I started riding in August of '05.  My roommate taught me how to ride.... i have been meaning to take the ERC but i have to fend off my of my debtors first!