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Motorcycle safety

Basic Motorcycle Rider Course | Experienced Rider's Course | Training school forms

Operating a motorcycle can take more skill and concentration than operating a 4-wheeled motor vehicle. Training and experience are the keys to safe operation.

New and experienced riders alike can benefit from the motorcycle rider courses sponsored by the Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program.

For a small fee, trained, professional instructors guide riders through classroom and on-the-bike instruction. Completion of the basic course qualifies students for their license without additional skill testing. Advanced training improves rider skills and keeps them sharp.

Courses are provided throughout Wisconsin and through the riding season by training sponsors in various locations.

Basic Motorcycle Rider Course

The 16-hour Basic Motorcycle Rider course is designed for beginning riders and was developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). Instructors are certified by the MSF and Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). It is taught off-street, out of traffic, and motorcycles and helmets are provided. The course consists of 6 hours of classroom and 10 hours of on-cycle instruction. The Basic Rider Course covers preparing to ride, turning, shifting and braking, street strategies, special situations, increasing riding skills, maintenance and insurance. 

Almost all motorcycling groups recommend that you begin riding your motorcycle by taking a basic rider course. As an added advantage, successful completion of the basic course will qualify you for the class M (motorcycle) operators license without an additional Motorcycle in Traffic skill test. Trainees are provided with a helmet, eye protection and a motorcycle for use during the course.

Experienced Rider's Course

An experienced or seasoned motorcyclist understands that riding requires knowledge, attention to the tasks at hand, and sharp reflexes. The Experienced Rider's Course Suite consists of a minimum of fives hours of learner-centered activities combining interactive discussion and riding tasks designed to hone a riders skill and techniques which in turn leads to a safer motorcycling experience.

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You will need the Adobe Reader (provided free of charge) to view PDF files. For more information about getting your free copy of the Adobe Reader, visit WisDOT's Software information page.

Questions about the content of this page:
Greg Patzer, gregory.patzer@dot.state.wi.us
Last modified: April 20, 2009