Motorcycle season is right around the corner

Published March 17, 2009
366th Fighter Wing Safety Office

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- With temperatures continuing to rise across southern Idaho, officials from the 366th Fighter Wing Safety Office remind Gunfighters to plan ahead and get their necessary training if they want to ride motorcycles on or off base.

"With many new and veteran riders itching to get on their bikes and enjoy the open road, some Gunfighters often overlook rules they must follow before they start their cycle's engine for the first time this spring," said Matthew Chandler, 366th FW ground safety office.

"Some members think they don't have to take the base's mandatory motorcycle safety course if they only ride off base," Mr. Chandler said. "They're wrong; Motorcycle Safety Foundation training is required for all military members who want to ride street bikes on or off base, on and off duty. It's also mandatory for all Air Force civilians wanting to ride street bikes on base and off base as part of their duties."

The training course is optional, but highly encouraged for contractors and Air Force civilians wanting to ride in their off duty time and family members ages 18 and up.

People wanting to ride motorcycles, motor scooters and mopeds on base must wear the required personal protective equipment. The same rule applies to Air Force members riding off base. The following are the minimum protective gear requirements for those stationed here.

Drivers and passenger must wear a properly-worn, fastened protective helmet meeting U.S. Department of Transportation standards. The helmet must include either impact resistant goggles, wrap-around glasses or a full-face shield. A motorcycle windshield alone doesn't meet this requirement.

Drivers and passengers must wear a visible brightly colored vest or jacket worn as an outer upper garment during the day and reflective material during night hours. Military uniforms alone don't meet this requirement.

All riders must wear long-sleeved shirts or jackets, full-fingered motorcycle gloves or mittens and long trousers. Mr. Chandler strongly recommended, "All riders wear sturdy footwear like leather boots or over-the-ankle shoes. Sandals, low quarter sneakers and similar footwear are a poor choice."

All off-road motorcycle and ATV riders should also wear knee and shin guards and padded full-fingered gloves.

"Supervisors and commanders at all levels must ensure riders are aware and comply with all training and protective equipment requirements and remain alert for high-risk riders," Mr. Chandler said. "Every squadron has a motorcycle safety representative serving as the focal point for all motorcycle-related questions."

People must schedule their required motorcycle safety classes in person by stopping by the wing safety office on the first floor of Bldg. 512 down the hall from the accounting and finance office. For more information, call the safety office at 828-1802 or 828-1805.

Motorcycle season is right around the corner

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