JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- With summer finally here, motorcyclists have also come out of hibernation.
“While [at] Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, we have a great opportunity to get out and see the beauty of the land and for some, there is no better mode of transportation than the motorcycle,” said Air Force Master Sgt. Steven James, 673d Air Base Wing motorcycle safety representative.
At JBER, the riding season typically runs from May to October and motorcycle operations are only allowed when road conditions are green. At the start of the season, riders should begin the proper steps to begin riding safely.
“While great fun, any activity with risk must be managed and mitigated,” James said.
A few forms of managing motorcycle safety include training, personal protective equipment and motorcycle maintenance, James continued.
“To ride on JBER you must have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license, have completed the basic rider course, comply with your command’s rider registration and tracking process, and lastly wear all required PPE,” James said.
For new riders, the process may seem daunting and many people don’t know where to start, James said. The first formal course, and the foundation for many riders training is the BRC. After the BRC, different training opportunities are available depending on the type of motorcycle.
“The class helped prepare me mentally for riding,” said Airman 1st Class Collin Cox. “Afterwards, I felt I had the knowledge of my motorcycle, and most of all I felt more comfortable getting on my bike.”
Fellow new rider Airman 1st Class Samantha Jefferson said the class prepared her for emergency situations, taught her to use the correct methods to switch gears, turn, and brake, and most importantly how to be a safe driver.
“New riders should enter the sport of motorcycle riding with the mindset that riding is part science — understanding the physics — and part skill,” James added. “As a rider, I’m a constant student. Each ride and season you can always learn something new and improve your skills.”
Cox explained he decided to give riding a try once he was stationed at JBER. Now, after going through all the necessary precautions and training, he said he continues to learn and experience each time he rides.
“I absolutely love everything about riding,” Cox said. “I love feeling the power of the bike under me and I love the rush I get. I don’t think I’ve ever loved anything I’ve done as much as I love riding.”
For more information about riding or becoming a rider, talk to your unit motorcycle safety representative.