I agree with you getting the basics down...before you head to the mountains...got a friend who jus started riding..he's been riding for about 2 months now an he still isn't ready for mtn's yet....as for me when I got my sv (my dad has a goldwing) my dad took me to deals gap 1st day I rode 300 miles....but i do not recomend that to anyone....I was so scared..but it was cool though...the main thing I have figured out is when your riding with people let them no your new to it where they won't run off an leave you....congrats on the bike though