kaphi

GarryP, on 2010-07-16 17:07:52, said:

I'm the wrong person to ask about that since I'm just learning this myself.

The course seems to be attended by all ages. Yesterday there were a bunch of 16 year old Thai kids as well as some house wives - wouldn't be surprised if that's the usual crowd. I did pretty much the same - used to driving cars (manual) and then started learning on a standard manual bike. Only sat on a scooter once before.

thaicbr, on 2010-07-16 12:19:25, said:

Actually they are open every day Mon-Fri for the normal training sessions. When I first called they also quoted August as the next official training date. They are maybe referring to the theory part, which might be mandatory if you're looking to get your motorcycle license (or a letter that basically grants you one after finish the course). However, I believe if you have a license already and tell them (or maybe tell them that you're not interested in anything but getting some practice and already had a license in your home country), you might be able to jump in right away.

Today I went to the Honda Driving Safety Training that was recommended in this thread.

It's near Ramkamhaeng 127. Started at 8.30. There were only people there from a single company (guess they had a safety event today), they all knew how to ride quite well already. All in Thai, no special translation assistance (though they did look a little bit more after me, being the only novice rider/foreigner).

The theory part wasn't terribly useful. I picked up 'Proficient Motorcycling' (available at Kinokunyia/Siam Paragon) which taught me a lot more than the lesson (which mostly focused on 'bad things happen if you don't wear a helmet or go too fast' (including pictures and videos). This was roughly 90 mins or so.

Practice was good. They have scooters as well as CBRs - good way to get a few test-rides in on that bike I guess. They provide helmet and long-sleeve tops + protectors (legs, knees, elbows, shoulders, arms) + gloves. They have a training ground (videos are available on youtube) that helps you learn the basics and they have quite a few trainers who can show you when you're doing something wrong (seating position, corners, breaking, etc.). Practice was around 3 hours. All in all a great deal for 200 THB.

The follow-up training time (a 24 hours coupon - use whenever you like) is probably something I'll take advantage of (1500 THB).

I think it's something you can do even if you don't speak any Thai at all (just follow the other guys and when you're doing something wrong they'll show/move you ). It's not exactly comprehensive, but it seems like a safe way to learn the ropes in Bangkok.

What do you guys use for storage on short trips (e.g. magnetic bags on the tank, top bins, dry bags strapped on the back seat)? Do you find that's enough for a weekend trip to the beach?

I just have a dislike for riding with a backpack and am wondering what alternatives there are with the CBR150.

One more thing - since you mentioned that in the thread description - there's a new Thai language school at RS Tower (MRT Thailand Cultural Center). I have my doubts about their quality, but they're probably cheap and easy to reach.