JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
As the motorcycle riding season draws to an end, the 11th Wing safety office held one of the last Experienced Rider Courses of the year here Oct. 16.
With multiple motorcycle fatalities taking place at U.S. Air Force installations worldwide this year, including here at Andrews, the safety office has stressed the importance of taking training courses like the ERC.
The ERC, which follows the guidelines set forth by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, is a one-half - day course geared toward individuals who have been riding motorcycles for an extended period of time. It focuses on the mental and physical aspects of safe riding, risk management and optimizing lane position.
Lieutenant General Philip M. Breedlove, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Plans and Requirements, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington D.C., attended the ERC along with other Air Force personnel.
Volunteer instructors here blend classroom training with actual road instruction as students, like General Breedlove, practice techniques including managing traction, cornering and swerving on a range.
During part of the ERC, General Breedlove was required to maneuver his motorcycle safely through cones and quickly stop while the instructors took note of his abilities.
"In a very controlled way, these skilled instructors put us through some tough paces," General Breedlove said. "This course is an incredible opportunity for those of us who like to ride and want to stay safe."
Throughout the motorcycle riding season, the 11 WG hosts different variations of motorcycle safety courses for riders of all abilities. Individuals who are new to motorcycles can take the Basic Rider Course where they are introduced to driving and safety fundamentals. Taking the BRC or state equivalent is required for servicemembers wishing to drive motorcycles on and off Air Force installations according to Air Force Instruction 91-207.
A Sportbike Rider Course is also required and offered here for individuals who own sportbike-style motorcycles. In order to take the SRC, drivers must first pass the initial BRC and have their qualification card on hand for the sportbike course.
Jamison Kesselring is a certified MSF course instructor and member of the 11 WG safety office. He's been an instructor for seven years both for the BRC and the ERC. Mr. Kesselring joined other certified instructors from the 11 WG and the Air Force District of Washington in teaching the ERC course Oct. 16.
"In the experienced course, the exercises are more difficult and done at higher speeds. The course is designed to learn exercises on your own motorcycle, while the beginner's courses are taught on trainer motorcycles." Mr. Kesselring said. "The ERC is a good way to brush up on bad habits you may have gained over the years from riding."
Servicemembers and civilian personnel can enroll in MSF courses, like the ERC, offered here and other installations by visiting www.navymotorcyclerider.com.