Many-and perhaps most-of you have never taken a rider-education course. There you go, zipping around your city, state and beyond, never questioning your motorcycling skills. Who taught you to ride? What were their qualifications? How many bad habits and misconceptions about motorcycle riding did you pick up? Or are you self-taught? A little learning, indeed!
All is not lost, though, as there are several programs being taught around the country with a few levels of curricula. "But," you protest, "I did take a new-rider course. I know how to execute the right maneuver in all circumstances." Funny you should say that: Unless you're out riding more than a few times a month and practicing those skills and safety techniques, that information will drift away and your reactions in an emergency may not be the right ones. Plus, if you have taken a beginner course you're probably ready for the next step-an experienced-rider course where you'll learn advanced skills and techniques. Experienced courses are also great for refreshing your skills, particularly after a winter's layoff.
There's more to be gained by taking a course than just the skills you'll learn. In most states showing proof of completion of an approved rider-education course qualifies you for a motorcycle license test waiver. Also, many insurance companies offer a discount on your insurance premium if you successfully complete a riding course.
For the true motorcycle novice and those who've never attended a course, we heartily recommend taking either the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic RiderCourse or Rider's Edge New Rider Course. You'll be taught what to wear when riding and the proper way to operate a motorcycle, as well as learning about motorcycle safety. About one-third to one-half of the course is taught in the classroom, with the remainder outside on the bikes. MSF courses usually provide easy-to-handle 250cc motorcycles for students, while the Harley-Davidson-run Rider's Edge course uses lightweight Buell Blast bikes.
As for riding gear, the MSF and Rider's Edge require students to wear a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, full-fingered gloves, long pants, and boots or shoes that cover the ankle. The MSF provides helmets for the Basic RiderCourse, and Rider's Edge requires students to bring their own DOT-approved helmet. Both courses recommend that students bring sunglasses, drinking water and snacks. Add rain gear to the list if the weather looks iffy. We also suggest that you have a pen and paper with you to take notes. For the MSF's Experienced RiderCourse and Rider's Edge's Skilled Rider Course, you'll need your own helmet and motorcycle.
For the truly experienced rider with at least two years of riding experience, Lee Parks, a former roadracer, offers the Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic. The skills taught are useful in all riding situations and are an excellent next step after the other experienced-rider courses. Students must have a DOT-approved helmet, motorcycle jacket and pants, over-the-ankle boots and provide their own vehicle.
So there you have it-what you need to do to increase your survival skills and confidence on your motorcycle while also enhancing the riding experience. Simply put, it pays to be educated.
RIDING FOR THE FIRST TIME...
AGAIN
Going to the Rider's Edge and Back
By Renee McGinty
Photos By Jim Moy
Fifteen years ago I was a California girl learning to ride dirt bikes in the sand. Then I landed a dream job as an advertising salesperson for Motorcyclist, ensuring me a future on two wheels. Or so I thought.A cross-country relocation, 11 years of marriage and two kids later, my visions of twisty roads turned into conference calls and stroller derbies. So when I got the chance to sample Harley-Davidson's Rider's Edge Academy of Motorcycling, I jumped.
Rider's Edge is Harley-Davidson's proprietary rider-education/certification course. Established in 2000, the course is now offered in 40 states at authorized Harley dealerships. You can choose from three levels based on your experience: the New Rider Course, the Rider's Edge Skilled Rider Course or the Rider's Edge/Motorcycle Safety Foundation Guide to Group Riding.
Prerequisites include the ability to ride a bicycle and appropriate gear-a DOT-approved helmet, protective eyewear, long pants, ankle-high boots, full-fingered gloves and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket. Students should also have a motorcycle learner's (M class) permit.