If you ride a motorcycle, it’s a very good choice to enroll in a motorcycle safety course. This teaches both new and experienced riders how to handle their machine safely and confidently when out on the road. Laws relating to requiring motorcycle training or safety courses vary depending on which state you live in. However, the knowledge you can gain through putting yourself through a safety course is invaluable.
Here, we look at what you learn in a motorcycle safety course and what types are available.
New Motorcycle Rider Requirements
Depending on your state, you need to meet a variety of requirements to get a motorcycle license. The minimum requirement you can expect is to pass some exams that enable you to legally ride your bike. You may also need to hold a motorcycle permit before you can take your full licensing exam. In addition, you could also be required to take a motorcycle training course.
Types of Motorcycle Safety Courses
Generally, state-required or recommended courses are provided by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Some educators differ in the types of classes provided, however most are similar to the following:
Basic Riding Course
As the name suggests, this type of course teaches you the basics of riding a bike. Basic courses are a mixture of riding and classroom time. These vary in length but as a general rule, consist of 15 hours or more of formal instruction for up to three days.
You learn about:
- Different types of motorcycles
- Motorcycle operation
- Motorcycle controls
- Safe riding skills
Expert Riding Course
Once you’ve confidently passed your basic course, it’s time to move on to a more advanced level. An expert riding course is an excellent choice if you’re looking to improve your riding in general. These courses usually last for a day. You learn advanced techniques like:
- Rider responsibility
- Laws
- Drug and alcohol risks when riding
- Rider responsibility
- Maneuvering in risky conditions
- Advanced riding techniques like swerving and quick braking
Enjoying the freedom that riding your bike out on the open road affords you is an experience that’s second to none. Ensuring you do so safely, both for you and for other road users, is the responsible choice to make. So, is having motorcycle insurance. Get a motorcycle insurance quote comparison here.