Thinking About Taking a Motorcycle Rider Safety Course? 260’x160’. Some motorcycle safety training facilities do not use a “full size”
Consider These Points Before Selecting a Training Program.
range, but what is called a “modified size” range. Although MSF allows the use
of the modified range, its dimensions are dramatically smaller; about half as
By: Bill Souder
wide and two-thirds the length of the full size training range area.The training
MSF Certified RiderCoach
range should be in a safe and controlled area on level ground, while also being
free of gravel, potholes, cracks, and confusing markings. Ask if the facility uses
With the speculation that we may see five dollar range per gallon by
a “full” or “modified” size range before signing up for a class.
mid summer many have been investigating and turning to forms of the two-
wheeled variety for transportation. This has brought forth an increase in the
Does the school adhere to the MSF instruction policy of 1 Rider Coach
desire and need for professional motorcycle rider safety training. The selection
to every 6 students?
of a training facility for your rider safety education might seem like an easy
The 6:1 Ratio of students to RiderCoach is vitally important during
decision by just going to the yellow pages and or a training website and sign-up.
your training. This ratio ensures that the instructors can carefully watch each
Most or all of the training facilities and coaches are MSF (Motorcycle
student as they learn the new techniques and to make sure that the student is
Safety Foundation) and, MOST (Motorcycle Operator Safety Training) Certified
demonstrating it correctly and not picking up any bad habits.
and should have equal training outcomes. However, beyond these basics
other factors may come into play. Below is a list of questions that you should
What is the school’s teaching philosophy and their RiderCoaches
help you gather a feeling of how these businesses operate when selecting a
experience levels?
motorcycle training facility.
It’s important that you select a training facility where the instructors
How long has the school been training students?
are really dedicated to teaching rider safety, possesing several years of both
The length of time that a rider safety school has been in business will
riding and teaching experience. Passionate instructors will take your training
usually give you a good indication of the school’s business ethics, commitment
experience to a totally different level of knowledge and understanding because
to rider education and the type of training you will receive.
they really care about your safety on the roadways. It also helps if the owner
rides a motorcycle as well.
Does the riding range area meet MSF requirements?
Find out if there are any “hidden costs” in addition to the stated class
The MSF regulations state that the actual riding range training area
registration fee.
should be 220’x120’ with an additional 20’ safety buffer zone around the entire
parameter of the range making the overall specifications of the training site
When signing up for the Basic RiderCourse (BRC) the price listed on
any of the training facilities websites or literature should be an “all inclusive”
cost for classroom training materials, use of training motorcycles and helmets,
and instruction time. Additional fee’s should not be charged based on
Colorado’s MOST program reimbursement policies to training contractors. If
you are asked to pay additional fees, Contact the MOST Program Manager to
inform him of the additional cost policy coming from that particular training
facility.
What is the school’s “unsuccessful completion” policy?
Depending on the experience level of the student learning to ride a
motorcycle the first experience can be overwhelming to the new rider. First
time riders may require additional time and training before tackling the streets.
Ask questions about the facilities policy in regards to returning for additional
training. Refresher courses are sometimes free and other times charge a
nominal cost for returning customers. In either event any additional training
does save lives.
Beware of stated “Achievement Awards” in their literature as many of
these awards are given through self proclamations.
A company may have many glowing endorsements and acheivment
awards and still not be the right training school for you. Only by asking
questions will you be able to determine the type of the businesses policy and
personalty that fits for you.
Candy Hergemueller and her son Kyler were the winners of $500
I hope that article will be useful in assisting you to make a much more
at the Boulder Power Sports Open House.
educated decision as to whom you want to place your trust in with providing
you the proper training to become a safer rider on our roadways.
Remember, your life is at stake!
Next Month:
More Rides !
More Roads!!
and Coming Soon!!!
motorideronline.com
Boulder Motor Sports Open House.
Race Bike Tuner Brian Sharp
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