Motorcycle Safety Institute

The Basic RiderCourse is designed for new riders. Seven hours of classroom instruction prepares the student for at least ten hours of practical riding in a controlled, off-street environment, typically a parking lot.

In this course, you will learn how to operate a motorcycle safely, with emphasis on the special skills and mental attitude necessary for dealing with traffic.

Instructors, certified by MANYS and Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), start you off with straight-line riding, turning, shifting and stopping. You will gradually progress to cornering, swerving and emergency braking.

In the classroom you will learn about the different types of motorcycles, their controls, and how they operate. The instructors, all experienced motorcyclists, will advise you on what to wear for comfort and protection. You will find out how alcohol and other drugs affect your ability to ride safely. A very important segment of the course will show you how to create your own strategy for riding in traffic, and dealing with critical situations.

Prerequisite:
16 years of age or older, holder of current and valid NYS Class "D" license or higher, and holder of current and valid NYS motorcycle permit

Required Protective Gear:
DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, over-the-ankle boots, long pants, long sleeved shirt or jacket and full-fingered gloves (helmet and gloves provided if needed)

Course Fee: $349.00

Benefits:
Greater Confidence
One RiderCourse graduate summed it up: "It is scary to imagine going on the road without having participated in the RiderCourse."

Improved Skills
Here is a comment from another graduate: "I have become more defensive and observant, not only while riding a motorcycle but also when driving an automobile."

Licensing-Test Waivers
Most states waive some portion of your motorcycle-endorsement test if you have completed a RiderCourse.

DETAILS:
Q. How do I become eligible for the optional road test waiver?
A. You must meet the following criteria:

After completing the course, you will receive a three-part waiver from MANYS. Take the DMV portion of the waiver together with your permit and driver's license to the DMV, and the DMV will issue you an interim license.

Insurance Discounts
Many insurance companies offer discounts on motorcycle premiums to students who have successfully completed a RiderCourse. The Basic RiderCourse qualifies for the 'Point and Insurance Reduction Program'. Contact your insurance agent.

DETAILS:
Q. What is the 'Point and Insurance Reduction Program'?
A. The Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP), approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles, is available through private companies or corporations, called "course sponsors," throughout New York State. Each qualifying course must meet strict standards for the safe driving information presented and program effectiveness. If you complete an approved PIRP course:

It will help refresh your driving knowledge with a review of time-tested safe driving tips and an overview of today's vehicle and traffic laws.
You may be eligible to reduce as many as four (4) points on your driving record. The DMV computer will automatically note your eligibility to receive the reduction.
If you are the principal operator of a motor vehicle, you will receive a minimum 10% reduction in the base rate of your automobile and motorcycle liability and collision insurance premiums each year for three years.

Q. How do I become eligible for the Point and Insurance Reduction Program?
A. You must meet the following criteria:

Discounts on Course Fees
Course fees vary from state to state and from program to program; some are greatly reduced in cost thanks to special fees collected through licensing and motorcycle registration.

Some motorcycle distributors and brand-sponsored clubs will reimburse all or part of your tuition. Also, many insurance companies offer premium discounts to RiderCourse graduates.

Base Access for Military Riders
Successful completion of a RiderCourse is mandatory for base access for many motorcyclists in the armed forces.

Spring 2006 FSZ Wknd (11)
March 17-19
March 24-26
March 31- 2
April 7-9
April 14-16
April 21-23
April 28-30
May 5-7
May 12-14
May 19-21
May 26-28

Summer 2006 FSZ Wknd (12)
June 2-4
June 9-11 (ON HOLD)
June 16-18
June 23-25
June 30- 2
July 7-9
July 14-16
July 21-23
July 28-30
August 4-6
August 11-13
August 18-20
August 25-27 (Women’s-only; see http://members.aol.com/hamyl)

Summer 2006 RFF Midweek (3)
June 15, 16, 23
July 13, 14, 21
August 10, 11, 18

Fall 2006 FSZ Wknd
(13)
September 1-3
September 8-10
September 15-17
September 22-24
September 29- 1
October 6-8
October 13-15
October 20-22
October 27-29
November 3-5
November 10-12
November 17-19
November 24-26

Note:
RFF Midweek
Thur: 6pm-9pm classroom for Session A and Session B
Session A: Fri 8am-1pm riding; 2pm-6pm classroom; Fri 8am-1pm riding
Session B: Fri 8am-12pm classroom; 1pm-6pm riding; Fri 1pm-6pm riding

Note:
FSZ Wknd
Fri: 6pm-9pm classroom for Session A and Session B
Session A: Sat 8am-1pm riding; 2pm-6pm classroom; Sun 8am-1pm riding
Session B: Sat 8am-12pm classroom; 1pm-6pm riding; Sun 1pm-6pm riding