Darick T. Earney
Associate Editor
Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU), calls for all aspiring and seasoned motorcyclists to join the upcoming semester of the Motorcycle Rider Program, starting in March.
Courses are free to join, only costing a refundable deposit of 20 dollars, in order to reserve a spot in a class. The chief goal of the program is to teach students how to be more cautious behind the handlebars:
“The purpose of the Motorcycle Rider Program is to provide quality instruction in safe riding techniques for beginning and experienced motorcyclists,” Assistant Program Coordinator, Levi Mayer said. “Our goal is to increase your skill level and knowledge, in an attempt to produce a safe and conscientious motorcyclist.”
The program offers four different courses, including: Basic Rider Course (BRC), Intermediate Rider (IRC), Advanced Riders Course (ARC), and Trike Rider Course (TRC).
To be eligible for the BRC, one must be of 16 years of age or older, but 18 or older for the other courses, as well as an Illinois state resident. Other requirements are a valid driver’s license or permit, and personal protective gear.
Motorcycles and helmets are provided to those joining the Basic and Intermediate Rider courses, however, it is required to bring one’s own for Advanced and Trike Rider classes.
Most of the classes are taught over one day during the weekend for up to nine hours, except for the BRC, which is over 20 hours.
“I feel these programs are a must for beginners and seasoned riders alike,” Lewis and Clark student and experienced motorcyclist, Karen Hitchcock said. “I’m sure the majority of motorcycle riders feel they can learn to ride on their own and that they are riding safely, but there are so many unexpected things that can happen to you when you’re riding and if you don’t know how to react properly, the consequences can be very serious.”
There are 12 different sites throughout Southern Illinois that students can attend for this program once they’ve signed up. Some of the closest sites on the list are the Lewis and Clark campus, Southwestern Illinois University (SWI), and the aforementioned Southern Illinois University.
For more on the Motorcycle Rider Program at SIU, or to sign up, visit the official website at www.mrp.siu.edu, or call 618-453-2877 to reach the program coordinators.
How do I sign up?