[Luke]

what others have said, plus:

• Isolated, low traffic roads: find some less-traveled roads, preferably familiar ones. Practice turning, stopping, shifting, etc. Keep an eye out for old ladies/guys turning out of driveways.
• Remember MSF: 12-second scan, drive like everyone else on the road is trying to kill you.
• Learn to hate cell phones: two semi-close calls for me in the last month, both were drivers more interested in talking than looking.
• Learn to love your front brake: Give it most of the stopping duties.
• Wear the gear: It's not that expensive or hot, and road rash is a painful thing to heal.
• Have fun: The CBR is a sweet little bike - I love mine, and I'm 24 years older than you with a lot more time in the saddle. At 75mpg, most anyone can afford to take a long ride to nowhere.

I hope you like your CBR as much as I do: if so, you will be a very happy man. Enjoy!

Luke

 

[Luke]

BTW, the neutral issue can also be resolved with a slight(!) clutch engagement while pressing down on the shift lever. It will click right in.