Enjoy the ride, but do so safely Published April 6, 2010 By Scott Eck 20th Fighter Wing Safety Office SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- There is nothing more enjoyable than riding a motorcycle on a warm, sunny day in South Carolina. However, motorcycling requires very different skills and knowledge than operating a car. There are also some inherent hazards of which riders need to be keenly aware. Some statistics say that motorcycle operators are roughly 35 times more likely to be killed in traffic accidents, especially during the first year of owning a bike, because of a lack of experience. These are folks who have very little or no training. Sometimes their actions, or lack of a reaction, to situations on the road results in a mishap. They may exceed their riding ability through speeding, improper braking or performing dangerous or illegal maneuvers. The result is often injury, or in a worst case scenario, death of the operator, passenger or others. Experienced riders are also not exempt from accidents. Sometimes, because they are experienced, they "let their guard down" or make a bad decision and end up involved in a mishap. In addition to the riders, there are inattentive four-wheel vehicle operators. I cannot count the number of times I have heard drivers say "I didn't see the motorcyclist" or "they came out of nowhere." Motorcyclists must constantly be aware of the four-wheel operator's actions; they must prepare themselves mentally, and in some cases physically, to take evasive actions to prevent a mishap. One of the most important skills for riders to have is situational awareness. Since a motorcycle does not provide the same protection as an automobile, the rider must be more aware of his or her constantly-changing environment. For example, when riding on the interstate, a rider may want to stretch his or her legs by using highway pegs. However, that same rider would not use the pegs in congested traffic areas, since the conditions may require quick use of the brakes. Additionally, being aware of the environment will allow the rider to adjust his riding style based upon changing conditions, such as inclement weather. Speed is another factor to consider. Just because the speed limit is 70 miles per hour doesn't mean you have to travel that fast. Maximum speed limits are designed for optimal conditions. Higher speeds decrease the reaction time available to riders should something go wrong. Remember, on a motorcycle you do not have a seatbelt, safety curtain or several hundred pounds of steel surrounding you to protect you in the event of a mishap. These hazards are why the motorcycle safety course, which is mandated by the Air Force, is so important. It teaches all riders the basic skills needed for safe motorcycle operation. Shaw offers two courses, which are the basic rider's course and the experienced rider's course. Both are free of charge to Shaw military and DOD civilian riders. For more information on the courses, call the 20th Fighter Wing safety office at 895-1985 or visit our motorcycle safety page on the SharePoint site. The Shaw Chapter of the Green Knights is another way riders can build their riding skills while enjoying the fellowship of other riders. Their focus is to improve each individual's motorcycle riding experience and to educate with emphasis on safety, rider skills, and community and family enhancement. They also promote social gatherings, area rides and shared motorcycle ownership knowledge. Please visit http://greenknightsmc.com/photo_2.html for more information.