I just took the course last summer and did all the same tests as you guys have outlined. It was 2 1/2 day course with book work for one night then 2 days of riding. We spent the first day with some mind numbing basic stuff, like how to start the bike etc. Then built up to turning, stopping, figure 8 in a box, hard stops in turns and then this "dreaded swerve." Our instructions were get her into 2nd gear and then swerve, stop and proceed. Just like this one does. Really I have to agree that this is an essential part of riding a bike. Everyday I ride I hear my instructors saying little "secrets" to better riding techniques.
And after I read this yesterday I swerved to miss a road closed sign after swerving a UPS truck. I agree it's a more advanced move and should be held off for later in the course like we did. But I think it is essential.
(yes I was going down a closed road! They closed the highway and for some reason my road got closed too-I'd say just to mess with the traffic more)
