Should I Take a Motorcycle Safety Course?

They say you can’t teach old dogs new tricks. Well, I find that statement to be false. After riding a bike most of my adult life, even though I had a motorcycle license, I decided to take a safety course to hone my skills and maybe learn something new.

Bizarrely enough, the main school where I am located is named Trauma, not after the potential for having one but the last name of the owner.

The class I took had bikers of all ages and skill levels. We first received a thorough overview of the traffic laws and how they pertain to motorcycles.

Classroom instruction in responding to emergencies while you are riding eventually leads to riding our bikes outside on a course designed to simulate some situations you may encounter.

Instead, I would learn how to get out of a skid in a controlled environment rather than figure it out in a real-life road situation.

The class also reviews some essential motorcycle maintenance tips and an update on the latest safety clothing, helmets, and equipment.

Some of the interesting safety tips I gleaned from class I will pass on to you. Beyond the obvious of never, ever touching a hot pipe, there are some rules to follow –

The Proper Clothing is Essential

Proper protection is essential to help you survive a crash with another vehicle and save you from injury if you lose control and lay your bike down. If that happens, you will most likely slide on asphalt. That’s not something you want to try to do in shorts.

Shoes

You must always wear sturdy shoes made for riding or boots to protect your feet. When you shift gears, you bring your toes up. Open-toe shoes or flimsy shoes can get old fast. And be very painful. A lot of heat is generated from your engine and exhaust. Burning feet is not a good thing.

Ride With Your Skill Level 

You may be king of the road on your turf, but if you go on the highway and are expected to keep up with a 75mph speed limit, it could get you slightly rattled if your skill set is not up to that level. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Certain backroads could be difficult and challenge your abilities, even if it’s not a freeway. Ride only where you feel safe and in control.

What Passenger?

Many of us take it for granted that passengers understand what to do when they are sitting behind us. Make sure they wear protective equipment like you.

I usually head to a quiet parking lot when I take on a new passenger. This way, I can slowly get used to the passengers’ weight and balance. It also gives the passenger added assurance, especially if they have never ridden a bike.

Enjoy your next ride in safety!