Motorcycle Safety Foundation Offers Safety Tips, Free Training Experiences for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
IRVINE, Calif., May 4, 2026 — May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and with peak riding season underway and higher gas prices, more people are riding — or thinking about riding — to save money. As more riders take to the roads, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers life-saving tips for drivers and riders. For those curious about riding, MSF-recognized training sites are offering participants the opportunity to try riding — free — with expert coaching, the right-sized bike, and safety gear included in RIDE Day events nationwide.
“Motorcycling is an enjoyable and economical way to get around,” said Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of MSF. “If you’re thinking about starting, proper training and full protective gear are essential. MSF RIDE Days give participants a chance to try riding, learn about proper gear, and experience professional instruction at no cost.” To support safer roadways, MSF also has essential safety tips for drivers and riders.
Tips for Drivers
• Look twice for motorcyclists. Motorcycles are smaller and can be difficult to see, especially in blind spots. Double-check before turning or changing lanes.
• Stay focused. Texting, calls, and social media can wait. At 65 mph, you can cover a football field in less than 4 seconds. A moment of distraction isn’t worth a life.
• Give space. Motorcyclists may slow down by rolling off the throttle, which won’t activate brake lights, so keep at least 3 seconds of following distance.
• Secure cargo. Loose items or debris falling from vehicles can become significant hazards to riders.
Tips for Riders
• Be visible but pretend you are invisible. Wear bright or light-colored safety gear, and don’t ride in a vehicle’s blind spots. Always assume other drivers don’t see you.
• Gear up. Choose full protective gear including a Department of Transportation-compliant helmet, and jacket, pants, gloves, and boots designed for riding.
• Check your bike before riding. Ensuring your tires, controls, lights, fluids, and chassis are in good shape before heading out can save you headaches on the road.
• Get trained and keep learning. New and experienced riders benefit from ongoing training. MSF courses provide foundational skills and advanced techniques to build confidence and improve a safety mindset. After training, current riders can continue to refine their skills by practicing on their own with MSF’s DIY Drills.
Try Riding for Free with MSF RIDE Day Events
MSF RIDE Day events offer a relaxed, beginner-friendly way to get started. These free, hands-on introductory experiences are available across the country and provide participants with an appropriately sized motorcycle, a helmet, gloves, and guidance from a professional coach. Participants can go at their own pace in a supportive, no-pressure environment designed to help them decide if motorcycling is right for them. Coaches are also available for information on next steps, including where and how to enroll in formal training. For more information on RIDE Day events and what to expect, go to msf-usa.org/ride-day/. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month safety tips and additional assets can be found here.