The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers a great weekend course intended to educate new riders on safe motorcycle operation and real-world riding techniques. The MSF instructors give individual and small-group feedback through the approximate eight hours of classroom activities and 10 hours of on-the-bike exercises.
Although the class is targeted at newbies, experienced riders alike can benefit from the MSF Basic RiderCourse. As a new rider with no riding experience, I soaked up every minute of instruction and came away from the class with a newfound appreciation of motorcycle safety skills. I found that the classroom environment solidified the safety and technical information I had studied to earn my riding permit. The bulk of the weekend course was spent on a bike, which was great for this rookie, because I had the privilege of learning from friendly, trained professionals every step of the way. My confidence and ability level was gradually strengthened while being taught to effectively shift, turn, swerve and brake at a moment's notice. Even though the MSF's beginner class is designed for the new rider demographic, seasoned riders also have much to gain from the course.
Baggers Associate Editor Jeff G. Holt has 25 years of riding experience under his belt and found the MSF class to be highly insightful, and the challenging riding exercises strongly reassured some of his own habits. "I found that the MSF course did a great job of helping me brush up on proper riding techniques and slow-speed technical skills. It was well worth the time spent," Jeff says. Advanced riders like Jeff would also greatly benefit from the half-day Experienced RiderCourse, which allows students to practice on their own bikes-a great way to further familiarize yourself with your daily rider or a perfect opportunity to break in a new scoot.
Another great perk of taking the MSF course is the insurance discount that you may qualify for after completion of the class. For those with a fresh permit, the class may also serve as a waiver from the formal DMV license test in most states. There is no reason not to enroll with MSF if you are serious about riding safely.
For course availability and additional information, call (800) 446-9227, or visit www.msf-usa.org.
Don't Be A Victim!
Nationwide Insurance offers some insight into the frightening world of motorcycle theft. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, only 25-30 percent of stolen motorcycles are recovered compared to the 60-65 percent recovery rate of stolen cars and trucks. A record number of motorcyclists are now on the road and riding bikes with spendy aftermarket upgrades, which can act as beacons to many would-be thieves and vandals. Nationwide suggests taking a few security precautions to thwart possible crimes against your ride. GPS tracking systems are always a popular and successful method of retrieving stolen bikes and automobiles. Disc-brake locks and chains act as physical security barriers as well as visual deterrents that can cause some prospective thieves to lose inspiration. Little tricks like loosening up a spark plug cap or shutting off the gas can also rattle crooks looking for quick smash-and-grab jobs. Parking in welllit, high-traffic areas is also an effective practice. Take your bike's well being into consideration and take action to secure its safety. For more information on how to insure your bike against theft, visit www.nationwide.com.
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