Basic RiderCourse (BRC)

Prerequisites: Ability to ride a bicycle. Full protective attire is required. Must be of legal age to operate a motorcycle on the street. Depending on State, participants may need a driver’s license and/or motorcycle permit.

The Basic RiderCourse is a complete entry-level, learn-to-ride class that consists of at least 15 hours of formal classroom activities and on-cycle riding exercises conducted over two or three days. About five hours are devoted to learning activities in the classroom, and around 10 hours of hands-on practice are included. Training motorcycles are provided. Successful completion may lead to a waiver of the motorcycle license skill test and an insurance discount.

How Do I Get Started?

The MSF Basic RiderCourse is designed for beginning riders of all ages. Five hours of classroom instruction prepares you for ten hours of practical riding exercises in a controlled, offstreet environment—typically, a paved parking lot. Motorcycles and helmets are provided free of charge for your use during the course.

In the classroom, you’ll learn about the different types of motorcycles, layout and operation of the basic controls, and how to become a safer, more responsible rider. You’ll review the different types of safety gear worn for protection and comfort. You’ll find out how alcohol and other drugs impair your ability to ride safely.

Next, you’ll move to the riding range and your RiderCoach (an experienced motorcyclist certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation) will start you off with straight-line riding, stopping, shifting, and turning. You’ll gradually progress to swerving and emergency braking. Click here for a complete description of the curriculum.

The course concludes with a knowledge test and a riding skill evaluation. Once your RiderCoach hands you the course-completion card, you’ll be happy knowing that you’ve gone the extra mile to develop your own safe riding techniques. Your introduction to the wonderful world of motorcycling has just begun! Find a RiderCourse near you.