Course Description

The MSF Basic RiderCourse offered by the Missouri Safety Center is your gateway to the joy of motorcycling, providing a comprehensive and engaging introduction to safe riding practices and essential motorcycle operation skills. Whether you’re a complete novice or a returning rider, this course will equip you with the fundamental knowledge and abilities to confidently handle a motorcycle, make informed decisions on the road, and cultivate a safety-first mindset for a lifetime of enjoyable riding. Through a blend of classroom learning and hands-on range exercises, you’ll learn to master basic motorcycle controls, understand critical safety strategies, and develop the confidence to begin your journey as a skilled and responsible motorcyclist.

Course Objectives and Outcomes

Motorcycle Fundamentals

Learn the basic types of motorcycles and their unique characteristics to help you understand the variety of machines available and how they operate. You will become familiar with the primary controls of a motorcycle, including the throttle, clutch, brakes, and gearshift, and understand their functions for effective and safe operation.

Confident Handling & Control

Develop essential skills for basic motorcycle operation in a controlled environment, including smooth clutch and throttle coordination, proper braking techniques, and effective gear shifting. Practice fundamental maneuvers such as straight-line riding, stopping, turning, and basic curve negotiation to build a solid foundation of motorcycle control and balance.

Essential Safety Strategies

Understand crucial safety concepts for responsible motorcycling, including risk management, being seen by other motorists, and maintaining adequate space margins. Learn proactive strategies for navigating intersections, curves, and various traffic situations to minimize risks and enhance your safety on every ride.

Preparing for Safe Riding

Discover the importance of pre-ride preparation, including motorcycle inspection and maintenance using the T-CLOCS method, and selecting appropriate personal protective gear (ATGATT) for different riding conditions. ATGATT, which stands for “All The Gear, All The Time,” underscores the critical need for riders to wear protective gear on every ride. Riders will also come to understand the critical role of a good mental attitude and responsible decision-making in ensuring safe and enjoyable motorcycling experiences.

Emergency Response Skills

Gain knowledge of basic emergency procedures, including effective braking techniques for straight-line and curve situations, and learn swerving techniques for obstacle avoidance. Understand how to handle challenging surface conditions and potential mechanical issues to confidently manage unexpected situations and maintain control in emergency scenarios.

Responsible Riding & Risk Management

Explore the impact of rider impairments such as alcohol, drugs, fatigue, and emotions on riding safety, and learn strategies for responsible riding practices. Develop a comprehensive understanding of risk awareness, risk acceptance, and risk management to cultivate a safety-conscious approach to motorcycling and make informed choices that prioritize your well-being and the safety of others.

Other Information

Registration Cost: $240.00/seat

This course includes an online section (the “eCourse”) at no additional charge. Participants are required to complete the eCourse before the first day of in-person section of the course. Participants that fail this requirement will not be allowed to participate in the in-person section of the course and will not be issued a refund.

By registering and submitting payment for this course, you reserve the ability to participate in the course but are not guaranteed a successful completion. Refer to the registration link below for more information and FAQs regarding the Missouri Safety Center’s Basic RiderCourse.

Successful completion of this course awards a testing waiver for a Missouri driver’s license motorcycle endorsement.