PSC Motorcycle Safety Program

The Basic RiderCourse is aimed at beginning riders of all ages 15 1/2 or older. If under 18, a parent or legal guardian must attend the first class session with the student.

The curriculum includes a minimum of 15 instructional hours which are divided between 5 hours of classroom instruction and testing and 10 hours of on-cycle instruction and testing in a controlled, off-street environment.

* Motorcycles and helmets for use in the course are provided. However, if you already have your own helmet we encourage you to use it as long as it is DOT approved.

In the classroom you'll learn about the different types of motorcycles, their characteristics, and how they operate. The RiderCoaches, all experienced motorcyclists, will advise you on what to wear for comfort, visibility and protection. You'll find out how alcohol and other drugs affect your ability to ride safely. A very important segment of the course will show you how to create your own strategy for riding in traffic, and how to deal with critical situations. The course concludes with a knowledge test and skill evaluation.

During your riding sessions you'll learn how to operate a motorcycle safely with emphasis on the defensive driving strategies and mental attitudes necessary for dealing with traffic. RiderCoaches will start you off with straight-line riding, turning, shifting and stopping. You'll gradually progress to weaving, offset weaving, shifting and turning, sharp turns, lane changes, controlling wheel skids, swerving to avoid obstacles, quick stops, cornering, emergency braking and much more. For safety reasons all students are required to wear the appropriate riding attire for their riding sessions. You are expected to be prepared by the time you are scheduled to ride.

* Failure to wear the appropriate riding attire will result in a drop from the class.