HARRISBURG – With the number of registered motorcycles and licensed motorcyclists increasing in Pennsylvania, PennDOT’s free motorcycle safety program is a valuable resource to help novice and veteran riders improve their operating skills and safety.
Motorcycles present riders with a challenging and thrilling ride. Sleek, lightweight and powerful, the vehicles require riders’ patience and concentration to maintain safety.
“We encourage all motorists to share the road but, due to their size, motorcyclists can be overlooked in the normal flow of traffic,” said PennDOT’s Deputy Secretary for Safety Administration Kurt Myers. “We offer these safety classes to ensure beginning motorcyclists and experienced riders know how to operate their vehicles safely in any situation.”
The safety program includes a basic rider and experienced rider courses, which offer riders of all skill levels the opportunity to learn and apply basic motorcycle fundamentals to reduce the risk of otherwise avoidable crashes.
By practicing proper riding techniques and learning how to handle their motorcycles in all types of road and weather conditions, motorcyclists can decrease their chances of being involved in a crash.
The courses are taught March through October at 69 sites across the commonwealth and are free to Pennsylvania residents. To enroll, individuals must have either a Class M (motorcycle) learner’s permit or license. Class M permit holders who successfully complete the program will be issued a Class M license.
The basic course is 15-hours and includes five hours of in-class instruction and 10 hours of practical riding experience under the watchful eyes of certified rider coaches. Motorcycles and helmets are available to students taking the course.
The experienced rider course is six-hours and offers skilled riders the chance to refresh their safety knowledge and hone their on-road skills. Students taking the experienced rider course must provide their own motorcycle and helmet.
Visit here for more information on the motorcycle safety program and to enroll in a course.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Additional information about motorcycle safety and information on licensing and registration is available here.