Two of the biggest hurdles facing potential and current motorcycle riders is the ability to easily try riding a motorcycle and access to continued levels of rider training. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) is helping with both issues through the creation of RIDE Tuesday: https://msf-usa.org/ridetuesday/ There are more than 700 certified ranges in the U.S., helping over a hundred thousand people each year learn foundational riding skills, earn their motorcycle licenses and continue to advance their riding skills.
"Our goal is to help training sites and local dealerships connect with their communities by offering meaningful motorcycle experiences,” says Corey Eastman, director of rider education expansion at the MSF. “RIDE Tuesday is being designed to test this concept and develop a program that all ranges can deliver in the future. We feel this will connect our network of ranges, those wanting to give motorcycling a try, and current riders — all in time to celebrate the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's 50th anniversary in 2023."
RIDE Tuesday events are free and offer experiences for everyone from the motorcycle curious to the seasoned rider. Those with no experience can get their first taste of riding a motorcycle in 30 minutes with the MSF Moto Intro — no tests, no stress, no commitment. Experienced riders get a chance to see how good their skills really are (and how well they know their own motorcycle) with the MSF Skills Check, which emphasizes slow-speed and tight maneuvers.
“For many people, getting a chance to try riding a motorcycle can be overly complicated, especially if they’re not sure riding is something they will truly love,” elaborates Eastman. “You’ll need to find someone who will let you use their bike, you’ll need to find some gear, and you’ll need to find someone — hopefully someone competent — to provide basic instructions on how to operate a motorcycle. RIDE Tuesday takes down all those barriers, so all you need to do is show up. “With the MSF Moto Intro, the motorcycles, safety gear and MSF-certified coaches are provided. If participants enjoyed their first ride, coaches will be on hand to provide more information about licensing classes.
RIDE Tuesday events will be held at MSF-certified ranges across the country, often in partnership with local dealerships. The first two RIDE Tuesday events will be at Clutch Motorcycle School in Loveland, Colorado, on August 30; and Motorcycle Safety University in Kerrville, Texas, on September 20. For more information about RIDE Tuesday, or if you would like to run the MSF Moto Intro or MSF Skills Check at a range near your dealership, email Corey Eastman:
ceastman@msf-usa.org