A safe ride

  • Published
  • By David R. Hopper
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. --  The 55th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron decided to spend the majority of the May 15 Comprehensive Airman Fitness Day reminding some Airmen about the basics of a safe ride.

The training was also conducted in order to meet DOD regulations outlined in AFI 91-207.

"As motorcycle riders we have all, at some point, learned the basic skills of riding safely," said Tech. Sgt. Edward J. Lotz, 55th AMXS motorcycle safety representative.

In order to meet DOD regulations outlined in AFI 91-207, the 55th AMXS covered five areas. Three parts of the instructional periods were classroom based. They covered Highway and Interstate Riding Techniques, seeing and being seen and emergency braking. All three taught in an adult learning group discussion format.

There was a Tires and Wheels, Controls, Lights and Electrical, Oil and Fluids, Chassis and Side stand or "T-CLOCS" pre-ride inspection of everyone's motorcycle to show proper inspection and maintenance practices.

"During [T-CLOCS] we actually went out and checked everyone's motorcycle," said Tech. Sgt. Crandall Ringdahl, class participant. "A few people realized that their tire pressures were off while another learned that his [motorcycle] wouldn't even start."

The last part of the training was the group ride.

"I thought that the Mentorship Ride was good for a lot of us that hadn't rode in large groups before," Ringdahl said.  "We learned hand signals for one line, how to point out obstacles along the ride, and things of that nature."

"This would be a good idea to do at least every couple months," he added.

"As an experienced group rider and a ride lead this was a great experience," said Tech. Sgt. Phillip C. Dase Jr., class participant. "Being able to teach a rider new to group riding and getting them comfortable with it was fun."

As the weather in Nebraska gets warmer more motorcycles are going to be on the road with cars and both need to be prepared.

"This mentorship ride is a DOD approved refresher course for riders to complete their five year training requirement," Lotz said. "Not only does this training promote mentorship, but also comradery amongst riders in the unit."

This class gave the unit motorcycle safety representatives an opportunity to meet and get to know who in the squadron rides.

For those who ride motorcycles on base, remember to wear your Personal Protective Equipment at all times and make sure your training is up to date.  For more information on AFI 91-207 click here or contact your unit safety representative.