Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C. -- If a Marine or Sailor has the desire to learn how to ride a motorcycle, then the Basic Rider Course is for them.
The BRC is a two-day course where participants learn both in the classroom and on the motorcycle training lot located across from building AS-213.
“The course is designed to take individuals who have never had anything to do with motorcycles before and teach them everything they need to know to operate and drive them safely,” said James Myers, traffic safety and motorcycle instructor aboard Marine Corps Air Station New River. “The classroom covers overall motorcycle familiarization, from proper nomenclature for the operating motorcycle parts to what needs to be looked for while you are out on the road.”
Myers added that they also take riders to the motorcycle training lot where they practice what was talked about in the classroom. The instructors make sure each participant knows how to properly mount the motorcycle and where his hands and feet should be placed.
“This course was a great help to myself and the whole class,” said Lance Cpl. Paul Smith, BRC participant. “They cover everything that needs to be covered, and you end the course with confidence in yourself in regards to your riding abilities.”
One of the key topics covered while riding is how to take a corner. The class covers all the areas of how to approach and take a curve in a motorcycle, such as setting entry speed on a curve, looking where to go and holding a steady speed for traction.
“Another major safety concern we cover is emergency stopping,” said Myers. “We teach the riders how to properly apply both of their brakes at the same time without locking up the bike and potentially making the situation worse.”
Myers said taking this course allows participants to learn how to ride a motorcycle in a controlled environment. During the course some of them may even find that motorcycle riding is not for them.
If participants feel motorcycle riding suits them then they are required to attend an advanced course for further instruction. For more information on taking the course, visit http://www.navymotorcyclerider.com.