Washington state endorsement help

[Questions]

Hello to all,

I just bought a new Spyder RS and we will be picking it up Saturday in california.
I live in Vancouver wahington and have some questions for Washington Spyder owners that have went through the endorsement process. I have been riding for 33 years and have no problems riding bikes or the Spyder. I am CDL class A endorsed and hazmat too! so the Spyder is No sweat at all.

My question is about the skills test. Is it condusive to the spyder? Are there any pointers in regards to the Washington course layout? I just want to know what to look for as government is usually three steps behind on any new technology or vehicles. Do they understand the Spyder is wide and steers diferently than traditional Trikes and side car rigs? Any how you get the idea what I am asking.

As a side note I am a Motorcycle technician and build many Lehman trike conversions so I am familiar with trikes and all that. I ride them all the time at the shop I am employed at in Oregon.

Please share some tips and info if you have first hand knowledge. If you know something from other states please refrain from posting as your input will not be valid or needed. I know you mean well but it just won't help my wife and I out. Posting to introduce yourself will be great and please do so.

Thank you for the Forum I look forward to participating. My trolling here has me holding high hopes for intelligent interaction. Most everyone seems to be kind and respectful which is more than I can say about other forums.

Thanks from
Steve NW Spyderyder

 

[bjt]

Have you ridden a Spyder yet? I'm just bringing it up because riding a Spyder has seemed to be a different animal than riding a conventional trike or any two wheeled bikes. I'm sure it'll be no problem but many folks state it takes a few miles to get used to if they were experienced at riding other bikes. Regardless, congrats on your purchase and I hope everything works out with your endorsement testing.

 

[murphybrown]

Hello to all,

I just bought a new Spyder RS and we will be picking it up Saturday in california.
I live in Vancouver wahington and have some questions for Washington Spyder owners that have went through the endorsement process. I have been riding for 33 years and have no problems riding bikes or the Spyder. I am CDL class A endorsed and hazmat too! so the Spyder is No sweat at all.

My question is about the skills test. Is it condusive to the spyder? Are there any pointers in regards to the Washington course layout? I just want to know what to look for as government is usually three steps behind on any new technology or vehicles. Do they understand the Spyder is wide and steers diferently than traditional Trikes and side car rigs? Any how you get the idea what I am asking.

As a side note I am a Motorcycle technician and build many Lehman trike conversions so I am familiar with trikes and all that. I ride them all the time at the shop I am employed at in Oregon.

Please share some tips and info if you have first hand knowledge. If you know something from other states please refrain from posting as your input will not be valid or needed. I know you mean well but it just won't help my wife and I out. Posting to introduce yourself will be great and please do so.

Thank you for the Forum I look forward to participating. My trolling here has me holding high hopes for intelligent interaction. Most everyone seems to be kind and respectful which is more than I can say about other forums.

Thanks from
Steve NW Spyderyder

Steve I will have some input for you after this Saturday. First in my area just getting scheduled for the driving portion has been a challenge. Not just for the Spyder, but for any trike test. I live rural and have to go to nearest DOL pay $5 THEN they will schedule the driving portion. I will be told today if the tentative date of this Saturday for my driving portion will be a for sure. When I asked the individual who actually does the test if he set the course up for the particular trike he said no. Standard set up. I tried to explain that I drive a Spyder...my sense was he was not listening. I had a retired examiner help me with a couple practice tests...when Ed set up the "tight circle" I could not make it...he kept saying you have to go faster and I said "it ain't happening" (I got the "woman driver" look)...offered him my Spyder..he hops on takes off and says...whoops your right takes more room...then normal trike course set up. So this might prove interesting...will let you know what happens....

 

[Questions]

Steve I will have some input for you after this Saturday. First in my area just getting scheduled for the driving portion has been a challenge. Not just for the Spyder, but for any trike test. I live rural and have to go to nearest DOL pay $5 THEN they will schedule the driving portion. I will be told today if the tentative date of this Saturday for my driving portion will be a for sure. When I asked the individual who actually does the test if he set the course up for the particular trike he said no. Standard set up. I tried to explain that I drive a Spyder...my sense was he was not listening. I had a retired examiner help me with a couple practice tests...when Ed set up the "tight circle" I could not make it...he kept saying you have to go faster and I said "it ain't happening" (I got the "woman driver" look)...offered him my Spyder..he hops on takes off and says...whoops your right takes more room...then normal trike course set up. So this might prove interesting...will let you know what happens....

MurphyBrown Thank YOU :2thumbs:

I will be interested to read what you have to say. I am certain others will benefit from your first hand experience as well. You illustrated exactly my concern with these clowns. They actually don't listen or care. Years ago I took my test on a restored 1959 Panhead. I could not perform the fast braking in the alotted distance due to the design of the bike (weak brakes). I had the experience I had been riding since I was 5 years old. I finally had to go to Aberdeen WA. where an actual person that knew bikes passed me. He passed on the fact that he knew what was causing the issue. Common sense right?

Keep me/us posted Good luck and show em how it is done.

Steve

 

[murphybrown]

MurphyBrown Thank YOU :2thumbs:

I will be interested to read what you have to say. I am certain others will benefit from your first hand experience as well. You illustrated exactly my concern with these clowns. They actually don't listen or care. Years ago I took my test on a restored 1959 Panhead. I could not perform the fast braking in the alotted distance due to the design of the bike (weak brakes). I had the experience I had been riding since I was 5 years old. I finally had to go to Aberdeen WA. where an actual person that knew bikes passed me. He passed on the fact that he knew what was causing the issue. Common sense right?

Keep me/us posted Good luck and show em how it is done.

Steve

Steve with your knowledge have a ? for you. JUST IN CASE I draw an examiner that has either a little god syndrome (I got the power person!!!) or one with the belief that a 70 yr. great grannie shouldn't be "doing" this...I am looking for some facts:
?: Do you know the turning radius for the Spyder RTSE5 (my trike), [assume all RT's would have same turning radius] VS. say conventional trike like the HD glide or converted trike? Nothing like being prepared...guess I could wear my Lady Smith on my hip and reallllllly freak 'em out!!!!!! :roflblack::roflblack:

 

[IWN2RYD]

welcome:congrats:

My wife and I took the Training class that allowed us to not have to take the written or driving test @ the DOL...

We had a worse conversation with DOL than Murphy did. We had been told we had to pass the two wheel course and they did not have a trike course... :gaah:

We know they do because this state has one endorsement for the 2 wheel and another for the Trikes... If we have both versions of Motorcycles in our collections, we must have both endorsements. There is not one that allows for both.

Knowing this, and not wanting to go deal with this situation and end up arguing (Being our government and all) we chose the training path. BTW.. Totally worth it!! I learned a lot and am darn glad I spent the $$ and time to take it.

Good luck. I am sure you will find a location that is using the Trike course. The driving test is actually pretty easy...

1. Always keep your head up and look through and past the turns.
2. Stay in the lines without knocking over cones.
3. Arrive with all your leathers, boots must be ankle supportive all leather.
4. DOT Approved Helmet and eye protection.
5. Know the braking limits of your bike without skidding.
6. Demonstrate total control of bike at all times.
7. All lights must be working, bring registration and Trike training "Permit" and insurance ID card.

BTW... The RT's are total cheats for the tests. They take 75% of the work out what we have become accustomed to. Especially if your sporting the SE5 hyea::thumbup:

I hope my $.02 helps someone!

 

[draboo]

I took this test last year in Kirkland,WA. Registered for it in Bothell,WA.

I had been riding the Spyder for quite some time with my MI license,but needed to get everythingh changed over to WA.

The test took about 10 minutes at the most. The hardest part that I remember, and the one I had to repeat, was the acceleration to XX mph by a certain mark on the pavement, then slam on the brakes at another mark. The reason I had to repeat it was because I wasnt going fast enough the first time.

They DO pay attention when you stall and mark it down on the test.

As far as the turning went, I had to keep one of the front tires between the marks while turning. It was fairly easy.

I took the "written" exam and drove for some time till my driving exam came up.

Do you have a time/day scheduled? We are in Michigan right now, but will be heading back to WA in a week or so. I would be happy to help you any way I can after we get back.

Brad

 

[murphybrown]

welcome:congrats:

My wife and I took the Training class that allowed us to not have to take the written or driving test @ the DOL...

We had a worse conversation with DOL than Murphy did. We had been told we had to pass the two wheel course and they did not have a trike course... :gaah:

We know they do because this state has one endorsement for the 2 wheel and another for the Trikes... If we have both versions of Motorcycles in our collections, we must have both endorsements. There is not one that allows for both.

Knowing this, and not wanting to go deal with this situation and end up arguing (Being our government and all) we chose the training path. BTW.. Totally worth it!! I learned a lot and am darn glad I spent the $$ and time to take it.

Good luck. I am sure you will find a location that is using the Trike course. The driving test is actually pretty easy...

1. Always keep your head up and look through and past the turns.
2. Stay in the lines without knocking over cones.
3. Arrive with all your leathers, boots must be ankle supportive all leather.
4. DOT Approved Helmet and eye protection.
5. Know the braking limits of your bike without skidding.
6. Demonstrate total control of bike at all times.
7. All lights must be working, bring registration and Trike training "Permit" and insurance ID card.

BTW... The RT's are total cheats for the tests. They take 75% of the work out what we have become accustomed to. Especially if your sporting the SE5 hyea::thumbup:

I hope my $.02 helps someone!

Thank you. Thank you. Yes, I would have taken the course in a heartbeat IF they offered one on this side of the mountain. Not only easier to pass the test, but the knowledge is invaluable. But unfortunately nothing available. So will give it my best "shot" tomorrow. Thank you for your 7 points...Have printed out and tattooing to my forehead. Again Thank You

 

[VaughnCat]

We're all rooting for ya :clap::clap::clap: and waiting to hear how you do ray: . . . . so keep us posted! opcorn:

Cat

 

[fastfraser]

:congrats:welcome:spyder2: On.

 

[Questions]

Murphybrown,

It has been my experience that the conventional trikes turn much sharper than the Spyder. With that being said a bike/trike can only do what it can do. It is my opinion that control and execution of manuevers trumps an arbitrary course every time. That is just comon sense Right? un fortunately the Government cannot see things the same way we do.

To all other responders

Thanks for the info and well wishes.:2thumbs: I find it sort of funny that I am personally licsensed to operate any thing with wheels in washington state except a trike.
I have CDL class A Double trailers,triple trailers, Tankers,Haz mat Passenger and all motorcycles licsense but they won't let me operate a trike.:shocked:
I can operate an 11 axle lowbed with an excavator 12 feet wide on the freeway at 200.000lbs but I need a trike endorsement. Funny its all about the Mooola.

I'm not at all concerned about riding the Spyder I just want the course to be negotiable for the machine. They don't make CDL drivers take the test in an area not condusive to its capabilitys. Therefore why do they do it to the bikes and trikes? Thats my only concern is the hitting the lines on the turn around. Just want to know before we go you know...hyea:

 

[murphybrown]

WA State Trike Test Update

OK..when I called to schedule the driving portion of the trike test last week I was told that I had to pay $5 (in person) before they would schedule the test. The DOL office is only open on Thurs. where I live and it is a 2 hr. round trip to nearest full time office. Now I had been told yesterday that if I got my $5 paid that they would schedule the driving portion for Wenatchee area (1 hr. drive for me) on this Saturday. So I was standing in line for 30 min. waiting for local office to open. My # is finally called...I go to pay and the fellow says I don't want your $5 I am from Omak and don't do the trike test. Then he proceeds to tell me that my instructions from Wenatchee people was ridiculous..I could just pay the $5 when I show up to test. I said," tell you what there are at least 70 people behind me in line...I am doing EXACTLY what I was told to do. I refuse to move until you receipt my $5"...he wanted to show his authority and I just stood there with the $5 and my license on counter in front of him. He finally, reluctantly, receipted. I came home..waited 45 minutes and called person in Wenatchee to schedule. He looked in system and said Sorry you have not paid $5...said WRONG receipt #...he says just a minute...calls Chelan office..gets back on phone, laughing and says...?? grudingly admitted you had in deed paid your $5. So I said ok what time do you want me there on Sat. Oh he says..I'm short handed so won't be doing it this Saturday..MAYBE next...will call and let you know. I can see where this might be headed so I called Evergreen and scheduled an advance trike course in Spokane (1 way 3+ hrs) for end of July...just in case Wenatchee can't figure out scheduling. All I can say is unbelievable!!!! Will keep you posted.

 

[rider2554]

You should do fine.

Hello to all,

I just bought a new Spyder RS and we will be picking it up Saturday in california.
I live in Vancouver wahington and have some questions for Washington Spyder owners that have went through the endorsement process. I have been riding for 33 years and have no problems riding bikes or the Spyder. I am CDL class A endorsed and hazmat too! so the Spyder is No sweat at all.

My question is about the skills test. Is it condusive to the spyder? Are there any pointers in regards to the Washington course layout? I just want to know what to look for as government is usually three steps behind on any new technology or vehicles. Do they understand the Spyder is wide and steers diferently than traditional Trikes and side car rigs? Any how you get the idea what I am asking.

As a side note I am a Motorcycle technician and build many Lehman trike conversions so I am familiar with trikes and all that. I ride them all the time at the shop I am employed at in Oregon.

Please share some tips and info if you have first hand knowledge. If you know something from other states please refrain from posting as your input will not be valid or needed. I know you mean well but it just won't help my wife and I out. Posting to introduce yourself will be great and please do so.

Thank you for the Forum I look forward to participating. My trolling here has me holding high hopes for intelligent interaction. Most everyone seems to be kind and respectful which is more than I can say about other forums.

Thanks from
Steve NW Spyderyder

welcomeWelcome to the site Steve. I'm also a Class A CDL w/hazmat. Been riding Harley's for probably as long as you and found the tryke test to be a piece of cake. Rode a Spyder here in Spokane for about 10 min and knew I had to have one. Found one in Las Vegas, took the written test to get my permit, got insurance on the Spyder before I flew down to LV, paid him cash, and rode it home to Wash state. When I got back, paid my 5 bucks for the skill test and went and did it. The difference between the m/c and tryke test is the course is a little different but not hard on the Spyder. It is a timed course of each segment, so do have to jump the speed up a little to pass each one. They want to see if you can handle your vehicle in traffic situations. The examiner also commented that there should be a different test for the Spyder because the Spyder made it look too easy. Aced the skill test with a perfect score. Instead of a 3TX on your license, you will now have a 7TX. Wa. state just likes the money and that's why we need a tryke endorsment here. Just think thou, you're legal wherever you go in the USA. I was smiling and laughing thou out the whole test, so I'm sure you'll do just fine with your experience that you have. Just remember what you learned in the Smith System and have fun ryding your new Spyder. By the way I also have a GS.

 

[Dyno824]

To bad your Govt makes you get a trike license up there.Good luck BRO:cheers:

 

[murphybrown]

Decision Made

OK..just found a trike class in Yakima that has an opening for advanced on next Saturday...so I paid my $$ and will head to Yakima. Figure I just contributed $5 to WA state coffers (trust me they need it - if I ran my household budget like they do I sure couldn't afford a Spyder -- or anything else!!!). I actually am looking forward to #1 the ryde to Yakima and #2 the knowledge I will gain. Folks at Evergreen said to get a copy of my completion certificate to my insurance co. and it should reduce my premium. Which I have found to be fairly high for a trike. Altho Marc in AZ got me the best insurance price....Sunshine today and Ms Spyder is "buckin' in her stall" so better get ready to saddle up and sooth the savage beast...
Have a great day.

 

[Questions]

welcomeWelcome to the site Steve. I'm also a Class A CDL w/hazmat. Been riding Harley's for probably as long as you and found the tryke test to be a piece of cake. Rode a Spyder here in Spokane for about 10 min and knew I had to have one. Found one in Las Vegas, took the written test to get my permit, got insurance on the Spyder before I flew down to LV, paid him cash, and rode it home to Wash state. When I got back, paid my 5 bucks for the skill test and went and did it. The difference between the m/c and tryke test is the course is a little different but not hard on the Spyder. It is a timed course of each segment, so do have to jump the speed up a little to pass each one. They want to see if you can handle your vehicle in traffic situations. The examiner also commented that there should be a different test for the Spyder because the Spyder made it look too easy. Aced the skill test with a perfect score. Instead of a 3TX on your license, you will now have a 7TX. Wa. state just likes the money and that's why we need a tryke endorsment here. Just think thou, you're legal wherever you go in the USA. I was smiling and laughing thou out the whole test, so I'm sure you'll do just fine with your experience that you have. Just remember what you learned in the Smith System and have fun ryding your new Spyder. By the way I also have a GS.

Rider,

Thanks for the info. I bought this Spyder for the wife to ride for now. Of course we will both get endorsed and I agree I will have no trouble. I will begin the Wife riding drills tomorrow. She has prior training and is athletic so she will likely do fine too. I sometimes like to know what I'm in for with the state. Prior dealings with those folks makes me irrate and I find it impossible to hold back comments and complaints. Several years ago one of the test courses here in Vancouver was covered in dirt gravel and debris. I watched two people go down due to the front wheel losing traction. My girlfriend at the time was up next (riding my Buell S3T) and I refused to let her go through with the test until they swept the area where the turn was. DMV goons went nuts, I went nuts screams and shouts were exchanged. The fact that two yes two riders were loading ther bikes on trucks was of no problem to them. If that were not bad enough I did some digging and found out many more riders suffered the same fate at that course. At any rate this won't apply to a trike of course but its the DMV and I avoid them like the plauge.

Thanks for the kind words
Will keep all posted

New 2008 Spyder SM5 4.4 miles full warranty 12,784.00 out the door!:clap:

The wife is happy!

 

[Questions]

Murphy Brown,

Go get em and enjoy that ride to Yakima.

Keep in touch

 

[Capnhowdy]

Skills Test

Howdy!
No worries, it's a piece of cake. The wife and I just took it on the 15th of May at Centralia, was real easy. We took it on the same course as the "regular trikes" and the folks at the DOL there are real nice. They only test there on the second Saturday of each month, and as others have stated, you have to pay a $5 fee ahead of time and make an appointment for the test.
Like you I have over 30 years experience, so was easy, but my wife has very little experience and still passed with flying colors. :thumbup: Their phone # is 360-807-6201. Good luck

 

[truck 85]

It is a very easy test. when i took it their was two other trikes their and they had a little bit of trouble but passed. On a spyder the test is easy if you can ryde a spyder around the block you can pass the skills test. good luck and ryde safe.

 

[murphybrown]

I Legal

Just got back from doing the Evergreen Safety course for trikes/sidecars. I would highly recommend. I did just the advanced trike portion..less $ and shorter time. But the knowledge was invaluable. To take the advanced portion (trust me I laughed on this one-as I am totally so far from advanced rider)..the gal asked me how many miles I had ridden my trike..answer 200 mi. Signed up. I would recommend this investment of your time & $$ as well worth it. There was 2 other Spyder (on 1 Spyder) ryders in the class. So off to DOL and become officially endorsed to ryde. The trip to and from Yakima was very nice also...:2thumbs: