We heard from our friends at the Motorcycle Safety Foundation that schools and training sites across the country are hosting 29 (and growing) RIDE Day events this year, offering those curious about motorcycling the chance to try riding. Best of all, it’s free! Coaches, motorcycles, helmets, and gloves will be provided.
MOTOIntro participants will be paired up with a coach who will work with them at their own pace. It’s a no-stress, no-commitment experience that focuses on the fun of motorcycling. And you don’t have to register in advance. Just show up during activation hours and sign up on the spot. (Do show up early if you can. We’ve heard these are very popular events.) Helmets and gloves are often provided, so all you need to wear are a long-sleeve shirt (or bring a jacket), long, sturdy pants (no holes or tears) and over-the-ankle boots.
There will be MSF RiderCoaches and other motorcycling experts around who can answer any questions you may have. Often, these events also feature motorcycle and gear displays, local vendors, and more, so it’s a great way to check out the riding community and get to know others who share your interest.
MSF will also have an activity for those who already ride — SKILLS Check. Whether you got your license last week or you’ve been riding for 30+ years, SKILLS Check is a fun way to see how well you can ride one of the more advanced exercises on your own motorcycle. MSF RiderCoaches will be on hand to give you timely tips if needed. SKILLS Check is also free and no RSVP needed. Just ride up, sign up, and go.
RIDE Day events stretch from Alaska to Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Virginia, New York, and more. For a full schedule of events, check out the RIDE Day calendar, and check it often. We’re told that more events are being added regularly. For those who like to have all the details up front, you’ll also find a video on what to expect and you’ll find more information on what you’ll be doing in MOTOIntro or SKILLS Check.
The MSF introduced RIDE Days a little over a year ago.
“Over the past 18 months, nearly 1,000 participants have taken part at 12 locations around the country,” said Corey Eastman, Director of Rider Education Expansion at the MSF. “Twenty-eight percent of them have gone on to complete an MSF course while an additional 24 percent are planning to take an MSF course in the future.”
If you’re not sure you’re ready to commit to taking a licensing class, this is the best way to try it out. It’s free, it’s fun, it’s done at your own pace, and you can experience this with your friends.
Could it even be a fun first-date idea? It would definitely be memorable!
Images: MOTOIntro
SKILLS Check
