Once you take the MSF course you're waived the riding test but you still have to take the written test. Not only that in CA you're required to take the written test for both the motorcycle and the car. I know...it is what it is. There are a few tricky questions there for sure so make sure you download the guide from DMV's website and take the practice tests.
BTW I've got my 1982 NightHawk 450cc for sale - reluctantly, but I've decided to hold off on riding until my daughter's in college. Like drugs once you taste the riding it's really difficult to give it up especially when everytime you open the garage door the bike's giving you the sad look of an animal behind a cage 
http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/mcy/1570859283.html
