May Is Motorcycle Safety Month

Spring is in the air and more motorcyclists are on the road than ever, yet highway crashes continue to claim the lives of thousands. That's why the month of May has been designated Motorcycle Safety Month, and an opportune time to educate both new and seasoned riders about safe riding skills. Harley-Davidson invites riders everywhere to hone their skills through courses offered in cities nationwide.

"Rider's Edge" classes teach everything from basics like braking and turning to controlling skids, surmounting obstacles and riding safely in groups. Riders learn through classroom and real road training. For a list of cities, go to www.ridersedge.com.

Per mile traveled, the number of deaths by motorcycles is about 26 times the number in cars, according to a 2003 report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Motorcycle operators in fatal crashes also had higher intoxication rates than any other type of driver, and exacerbated the problem with other risk-taking behaviors such as riding without protective gear.

The Harley- Davidson Academy of Motorcycling offers three training courses: the New Rider Course, the Skilled Rider Course, and a Group Riding Course. Each includes both classroom and real-road experience in a controlled setting.

Riders who complete the course are issued Motorcycle Safety Foundation cards, and may be eligible for a discount on motorcycle insurance coverage, depending on their state of residence and insurance provider.

Source: Harley-Davidson