Whether you are a novice or advanced rider, the knowledge and experience you can get from a motorcycle safety course can make you a better, safer rider. Not just for motorcycles, even ATV riders, Dirt Bike riders and Scooter riders can benefit from safety courses. Here are some suggestions on where to find reputable courses, what you need and what they will cost.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation started in 1973. A National not-for-profit Organization, the foundation works with government, manufacturers and private businesses in effort to ensure access and education and training for current and prospective motorcycle riders. You can find them on the web at www.msf-usa.org for a list of safety courses in your area. They also offer Scooter classes and dirt bike classes for both beginners and experienced riders. More often than not, all you need is some safety gear. The vehicle and helmet will often be provided for you. Come prepared to most courses wearing a long sleeve shirt, long pants, full-fingered gloves, boots or shoes that cover your ankle bone, and rain gear if it looks like rain. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation requests a $20.00 registration fee for the course.
The ATV Safety Institute, also a not-for-profit organization, was formed in 1988 to implement and expand safety awareness and education for the use of all terrain vehicles; their web address is www.atvsafety.org. Courses they offer are designed specifically for the age of the rider, giving the younger rider the benefit of an experienced teacher instead of learning from their peers and at the same time putting them in a learning environment with other riders the same age. Unlike the motorcycle courses, you usually have to provide your own atv as well as a dot approved helmet, goggles, a long sleeve shirt, long pants, gloves, boots or shoes that cover your ankle bone, and once again rain gear if it looks like rain. Quite often, this course is often free for eligible participants, but if not eligible, it is usually a small fee.
Private courses for all levels of riders can be found all over the Internet. Some courses can cost you as much as $1000.00 and require you to bring your own motorcycle. Just be sure to do your research on the company. How long have they been in business? Does your local Secretary of State Office endorse them? Is the cost refundable?
Safety is always a concern when any motorized vehicle is for on or off-road riding, taking a course is one way to ensure that you will be prepared for all kinds of situations. You wouldn’t hop in a car and get on the road without a license, and motorcycles, ATV’s and scooters deserve the same respect.