Motorcycle safety: Everyone plays a role

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Chuck Broadway
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The temperature is beginning to warm up and the dry season is upon us. This means families spend time on the water, adventure seekers trek into the woods, and two-wheeled enthusiasts uncover their motorcycles to enjoy several months of sunny, rain-free days of riding.

Whether a beginning rider or a seasoned veteran, it's important for all riders to have proper training, and for motorists to be alert and aware of motorcycles on the road.

In order for anyone to operate a motorcycle on Beale, there are several training requirements which must be completed prior to receiving this privilege. Riders must have their supervisor and unit safety representative's permission and then complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation course offered through the California Highway Patrol. The final step is to have a personalized safety briefing with their commander to talk about safety procedures and make the final approval for the member to ride.

"The Air Force program is deliberate and allows for novice riders to learn capabilities and safety considerations they should take," said Frank Lucero, 9th Communications Squadron director of plans and programs and avid motorcycle rider. "They also offer advanced riding classes at no cost and riders should take advantage of them because there's always room for growth."

Upon completion of this process, members can ride on and off base and must always wear proper safety garments. These items include an approved helmet and protective clothing such as closed-toed shoes and outer garments that contrast with the surrounding environment.

"I want my gear to be as reflective and visible as possible," said Mr. Lucero, who rides an orange motorcycle with a golden helmet. "Bright colors are your friend, and it's not worth worrying about being seen. I just go out and enjoy myself."

Riders must also follow all posted speed limits and obey all traffic lights and signs while operating their motorcycles.

According to Tech. Sgt. Jakob Kurtz, 9th Reconnaissance Wing NCO in charge of ground safety, Beale riders have a good record when it comes to safety and motorcycles. Of the more than 300 riders on base, there were only five reported accidents in the past two years.

"Many of the mishaps are caused by riders not being able to negotiate their bikes properly," he said. "The handling characteristics may exceed the rider's skill level, and riders should consider purchasing a bike which meets their abilities."

Sergeant Kurtz also suggested riders become familiar with their riding area and the different environments they may encounter. Differences in road conditions, elevation and traffic can lead to hazards.

The unfamiliarity of environments combined with many riders' failure to obey posted speed limits have led to the majority of accidents for Beale motorcycle enthusiasts.

According to the 9th RW Safety office's 2009 records, speed was the number one cause of accidents involving motorcycle riders. Riders' skill levels compared to bike specifications was the second leading cause and accidents caused by other motorists being the third.

"My number one critique is for riders to watch their speed," Sergeant Kurtz said. "Maintain visual awareness of your surroundings, and ensure you have completed training before operating. For those in automobiles, be aware of riders and look for the small objects on the road instead of just the larger ones."

Mr. Lucero said the vast amount of open space and back roads offer a rider's paradise around Beale. When traveling home from work he'll be taking the back roads to enjoy the scenery instead of the straight-shot, commuter roads that are filled with stop and go traffic.

For those anticipating the increased enjoyment of riding their motorcycles -- be safe and have fun.