Motorcyclists have one more chance to take Advanced RiderCourse

  • Published
  • By Valerie Mullett
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  The Malmstrom Safety Office with assistance from Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety, offered the first-ever Advanced RiderCourse Sept. 6 and they are excited about being able to offer it again to motorcycle riders Sept. 26. 

The course is specifically designed for the experienced riders who want to take their riding skills to a more advanced level, according to Roger Swearengen, Montana Motorcycle Rider Safety director. 

"The primary objectives are to improve control, develop comfort and practice perfect techniques," Mr. Swearengen said. "To achieve those objectives, the course teaches advanced riding techniques for cornering, braking and swerving. They are learned in a framework that encourages the student to evaluate safety and risk, perception and behavior." 

In all, students spend about three hours in the classroom in the morning, the rest of the day is spent riding their motorcycles learning and perfecting advanced techniques.
2nd Lt. Mike Anchustegui, 12th Missile Squadron, attended the class Sept. 6. He has been riding a motorcycle/dirt bike or ATV since he was 10 years old. Currently, he rides a Yamaha R6 sportbike he purchased about two years ago while still in college. He said he purchased it so he could join other family members when they ride. Feeling like he needed a refresher since taking the Basic RiderCourse two years earlier, he is thankful he took the advanced course. 

"The course definitely challenged my riding abilities, but not to an extent of being dangerous or uncomfortable," the missileer said. "The techniques we learned were new to each of us. I feel like a much safer rider now, having taken the course. It made me more aware of my abilities, my bike's abilities and our limitations." 

Students should already have good skills and solid riding experience before taking this class, Mr. Swearengen said. 

"The most successful students are those who have a couple of years of real-world riding experience and plenty of mileage on their personal bike," Mr. Swearengen said. 
"Successful students also have a strong desire to take their riding skills to a higher level and maximize their safety and enjoyment." 

Students need to provide their own riding gear and street-legal motorcycle for the course. It must be in good operating condition and properly licensed. It also must pass a routine safety inspection. For protection and in case of an accident, students are encouraged to carry adequate insurance for the motorcycle. Students must also bring the full riding gear, or personal protective equipment, for use during riding practice. 

"I would highly recommend this course to all riders, sportbike or otherwise," Lt. Anchuistegui said. "Not only can it help improve your riding and safety awareness, but it's a great way to meet new people to go riding with and who share the same love of motorcycles as you." 

To sign up for the Sept. 26 class or for more information, call Kelly Nathe in the Wing Safety Office at 731-6726.