I am more or less a self taught rider. But want to find out what all tips and technique are out there to make me a better rider. Recommendation on books and/or DVDs?

Also, I will be trying out the techniques on my C14. Is some fall protection recommended?

I found Keith Code's Twist of the Wrist very helpful.

I found Keith Code's Twist of the Wrist very helpful.

+1

Also I found Ride like a Pro very helpful.  It teaches you everything that you could encounter on a daily basis. Even low speed manuvers like in a parking lot. I have the Ride Like a Pro V
 
http://www.ridelikeapro.com/

Maximum Control I thought was a good read.
http://www.amazon.com/Maximum-Control-Mastering-Your-Heavyweight/dp/0760336741

Cheers
Ron

Check with your local library. I checked out Ride Like a Pro V last year from my local branch.

To be honest, for me, it was almost worthless. It was SO basic that it just about board me to death.

Check with your local library. I checked out Ride Like a Pro V last year from my local branch.

That's a good idea, to see if the library has it.

Cheers
Ron

Total Control by Lee Parks.  I also can't say it LOUD ENOUGH, take an advanced riding course, it is really amazing at just how wrong we can ride and survive.  A set of trained eyes is always better then when we look at ourself.  Do a search and see if there are any Lee Parks classes in your area.  I took in in a torrential downpour, all I got to say is them lines are as slick as snot, but they aint as big as the rest of the area, technique and practice are a sure fire way to be a better rider.

"Proficient Motorycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well" by David Hough. An oldie but goodie, also available on Kindle. ATGATT (All The Gear All The Time). Sooner or later you will fall/slide/tip/whatever.

My father used to caution me against riding a motorcycle. He would say "Anything that goes that fast and has to be propped up when it stops will fall down sooner or later."

My father used to caution me against riding a motorcycle. He would say "Anything that goes that fast and has to be propped up when it stops will fall down sooner or later."

I like that one.... !

It's not a matter of IF, but WHEN. 

Wear your gear.  Don't ride at 100% on the street.

I learn by doing, and go riding with somebody who is much better than you are.

I found Keith Code's Twist of the Wrist very helpful.

+1

+2

But doing a track school is even better than watching something.  They aren't real expensive either. I attended one at Homestead-Miami International, and once you follow/mimick the pro's around the course, then come in and look at the video's of your body position and such (which will look ridiculous the 1st few sessions) you will gain valuable skills for the street and track.

+2

But doing a track school is even better than watching something.  They aren't real expensive either. I attended one at Homestead-Miami International, and once you follow/mimick the pro's around the course, then come in and look at the video's of your body position and such (which will look ridiculous the 1st few sessions) you will gain valuable skills for the street and track.

Correct me if I'm wrong here Steve but doesn't running track days require that you have full leathers?  That isn't cheap although they are good to have when riding seriously.

Dave

I just bought 1 piece and turtle back for $140 on Craigslist.  Just keep checking.  The suit was $1,000 new.  Just some scufs on it from a slide on track.

Correct me if I'm wrong here Steve but doesn't running track days require that you have full leathers?  That isn't cheap although they are good to have when riding seriously.

Dave

Varies on school and purpose of training, we at PSS  (www.pugetsoundsafety.com ) don't require a full blown set of leathers, riding pants and riding jacket, full face helmet (gloves and all that ATGATT stuff).

I just bought 1 piece and turtle back for $140 on Craigslist.  Just keep checking.  The suit was $1,000 new.  Just some scufs on it from a slide on track.

What about the inside?  Any, um, "scuffs" in there?

Sport Riding Techniques is a good book to read. Better to get yourself signed up for an MSF (http://online2.msf-usa.org/msf/Default.aspx) Experienced Rider Course. Assuming you have your MC endorsement on your license. Here in TX you must take the Beginner Rider Course to get your license. The ERC is a 5 hour session (depending on how much the instructor talks) on your own motorcycle.

John