PennDOT recently revamped its motorcycle training program, which provides valuable training to motorcyclists of all skill levels. These training clinics are free for Pennsylvania residents with a motorcycle permit or license.
The Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program is offering a brand-new training curriculum, developed by new program coordinator Total Control Training Inc.
The clinics are instructed by certified instructors and are held at multiple locations throughout Pennsylvania.
New this year, PAMSP is offering a 4-hour Introduction to Riding Clinic that provides further information to those who are unsure about riding. The 16-hour Beginner Riding Clinic (BRC) allows beginners to learn about motorcycles and experienced riders the ability to regain lost skills or fix incorrect practices. For these introductory courses, students are provided with a motorcycle and helmet.
In addition, PAMSP provides an 8-hour Intermediate Riding Clinic (IRC) for well-experienced riders. This clinic gives riders the opportunity to refresh their knowledge on the safety procedures of riding a motorcycle. The IRC deals with crash research and centers its attention around cornering, braking, and swerving.
Also offered is the 3-Wheeled Clinic, which mainly focuses on the same practices that go on during the BRC, but using a three-wheeled motorcycle. The IRC and 3-Wheeled clinics expect riders to come prepared with their own motorcycle, protective gear, registration and insurance for the vehicle.
Finally, there is the Advanced Riding Clinic, a one-day course for experienced riders looking to enhance their safety skills. It's designed to enhance a rider's decision-making abilities, riding strategies, and risk management.
After completing the BRC, IRC, and 3WC, riders with a learner's permit will be granted a license to officially ride a motorcycle. Additionally, individuals who pass the three-wheeled test will be licensed to a “9” restriction, meaning they can only ride a three-wheeled motorcycle. Riders may also gain extra benefits with insurance savings by taking the PAMSP courses.
Additionally, PAMSP is hosting a free Day at the Range Training Demonstration 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, June 29, at Blackman's Cycle Center in Emmaus. Watch as PAMSP's experienced instructors demonstrate skills and maneuvers direct from the class curriculum,
For more information or to sign up for a class, visit www.pamsp.com or call 1-800-845-9533. Download the PA Motorcycle Practice Test app at www.pa.gov/apps to get started.
To emphasize the importance of motorcycle safety, Gov. Tom Wolf has proclaimed May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. Take a closer look at safety tips for motorcyclists by visiting www.PennDOT.gov/safety. You also can follow along on social media with the department's Live Free Ride Alive motorcycle safety campaign on Facebook and Twitter.