MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --
Motorcycles are a great way to enjoy the Montana scenery. But before you saddle up for your ride, take a moment to inspect your bike to make sure it is mechanically sound and that all of the components are in good working order.
A pre-ride inspection shouldn't take more than a few minutes. If it is done before every ride, it can help you identify changes to your motorcycle before they become a problem. Use the memory aid "T-CLOCS" to remember what you should look over:
T - Tires and wheels. Check air pressure and tread. Look for cracks, dents and loose spokes. Check your brakes and bearings.
C - Controls. Check all levers, switches, cables and hoses. Ensure that your throttle is working properly.
L -- Lights and electrics. Check that all are in working condition.
O -- Oil and other fluids. Check your coolant, hydraulic fluid and fuel.
C -- Chassis. Look over your motorcycle's suspension and drive components including chain, belt or driveshaft.
S -- Stands. Check the side or center stand.
Riders need to wear clothing that will protect them in case of an accident. Dress for the crash or skid instead of for the ride. Specific items of Personnel Protective Equipment are mandated by Department of Defense Instruction 6055.4, DoD Traffic Safety Program, and by Air Force Instruction 91-207, The U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety Program. The required equipment for riders and passengers are:
- Department of Transportation or Snell Memorial Foundation approved helmet
- Eye protection. The windshield of the motorcycle is not considered eye protection
- A long-sleeved shirt and/or jacket
- Full length pants
- Over-the-ankle boots or shoes
- Full-fingered gloves and/or mittens
This applies to all military members, both on and off duty, when either on or off base. These mandates also apply to them when riding all-terrain vehicles or dirt bikes. Additionally, these mandates must be followed by all civilian riders when they are on Malmstrom Air Force Base.
The DoDI and the AFI mandate that every military motorcycle rider must attend either a Motorcycle Safety Foundation or a state-accredited course. Riders should also attend intermediate training within 60 days--but no later than one year from initial training. Sport bike riders must attend an advanced rider course. All riders must complete refresher training every five years.
Montana State University Northern out of Havre, Montana, is Malmstrom's motorcycle training contractor for the 2014 training season. All sign-ups for motorcycle training are through unit-appointed motorcycle safety representatives.
The Basic Riders Course is a two-day course for beginners. MSU Northern supplies the motorcycles and helmets for the training. The next advancement in training is the Experienced Rider Course, a one-day course for certified riders who use their own motorcycle, PPE and riding gear. The final course is the Advanced Rider Course, mandated for sport-bike riders. This course also requires riders to use their own motorcycles and safety equipment.
The mandated training is free to all active-duty military personnel stationed at Malmstrom.
This article is to inform everyone on Malmstrom of what is mandated for motorcycle riders and what the wing provides in the way of training. Ride smart and enjoy the ride.
The following is a schedule of a motorcycle training classes this year:
Basic Rider Course
June 7-8
June 14-15
June 28-29
July 12-13
July 26-27
Aug. 9-10
Aug. 16-17
Aug. 23-24
Sept. 6-7
Sept. 27-28
Intermediate Rider Course
June 11
June 15
June 21
June 25
July 20
Aug. 2
Aug. 13
Aug. 17
Aug. 30
Sept. 13
Sept. 21
Advanced Rider Course/Military Sport Bike Rider Course
June 14
July 19
Aug. 16
Sept. 20