Motorcycle Safety Foundation News

MSF Director of Training Systems Dr. Ray Ochs Receives SMSA
Chairperson's Award for Outstanding Contributions to Motorcycle Safety

IRVINE, Calif., August 26, 2010 - Dr. Ray Ochs, director of training systems for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), was honored at the annual conference for the National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators (SMSA), held in Columbus, Ohio on August 20-22, 2010.

Dr. Ochs received the SMSA Annual Chairperson's Award for his "Outstanding Contributions to Motorcycle Safety" in national rider education and training. It was presented by SMSA Executive Committee member Ken Kiphart from the Nevada Department of Public Safety pictured (left) and Dr. Ray Ochs. Photo courtesy of Miriam Romais.

Each year the SMSA recognizes an individual whose contributions to motorcyclist safety has moved motorcycle rider education and training forward by consistently providing outstanding work and support. The award is intended to recognize the individual's commitment and contributions to motorcycle safety at local, state, and national levels. Nominations are voted upon by a committee composed of the current and former Chairpersons of the SMSA.

"Without fail Ray Ochs has served the needs of current and prospective motorcyclists across the country with great passion and expertise," said MSF President Tim Buche. "His leadership and vision have been instrumental in bringing the MSF's Rider Education and Training System to fruition, offering training and safety renewal opportunities for riders at all skill levels. Among his achievements, he has also been responsible for 'training the trainers' and has logged hundreds of hours leading professional development workshops for MSF RiderCoaches and RiderCoach Trainers. Currently Ochs is working with over fifty subject matter experts through the RETSDOT to sharpen the focus of MSF's RETS and redefine MSF's basic RiderCourse. His many contributions will benefit generations of riders to come, and we're pleased that his achievements have been acknowledged by the SMSA Executive Committee with this prestigious award."

Dr. Ochs has more than 40 years of experience in education, training and leadership functions and has been associated with MSF development programs since its inception in 1973. Ochs's association with the MSF and the RETSDOT program continued in 1997 through a contract with the Traffic Safety Institute at Eastern Kentucky University. Ochs joined the MSF in a leadership position in 2002 where he develops and maintains national curriculum and training functions related to the MSF Rider Education and Training System. Ochs has owned multiple motorcycles in his 44-plus years on the road and currently rides a touring bike. He became an MSF-certified instructor in 1973 and a chief instructor in 1980, and has conducted motorcycle safety training programs and presented papers and presentations in 48 states and throughout the world supporting DOD safety programs and various International Safety Conferences.

Ochs began his career in 1970 as a high school teacher and baseball coach at LeBlond High School in St. Joseph, Mo. He entered academia as a graduate assistant at the Driver Education Instructional Demonstration Center at Indiana State University.

Upon graduating, he was appointed lecturer at Appalachian State University in North Carolina, where he taught undergraduate safety courses, managed laboratory functions for the traffic safety teacher preparation program, implemented a motorcycle safety workshop for driver education teachers and served as a consultant for the North Carolina Department of Education. In 1974, he became an instructor for the Driver Education Center at East Carolina University, where he taught undergraduate and graduate programs in driver and traffic safety education, expanded the university's rider education curriculum and collaborated in the development of the state motorcycle safety program.

Ochs then joined the faculty of Eastern Kentucky University in 1976 as assistant professor at the Traffic Safety Institute, later to earn full professor rank and become the institute's coordinator. Serving EKU for 27 years, he was responsible for expanding the undergraduate curriculum in driver and traffic safety education, implementing several new courses including a for-credit university course in motorcycle safety education, collaborating in the development of legislation for the state motorcycle safety program and serving as project director for several grant-funded state projects including the motorcycle rider education program and other traffic safety projects.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation promotes rider safety through rider training systems, operator licensing tests and public information programs. The MSF works with the federal government, state agencies, the military, and others to offer training for all skill levels so riders can enjoy a lifetime of safe, responsible motorcycling. Standards established by the MSF have been internationally recognized since 1973.

The MSF is a not-for-profit organization sponsored by BMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha. For RiderCourse^SM locations, call (800) 446-9227 or visit www.msf-usa.org. RiderCourse Center

Motorcycle Boots, RiderCourse Center

TREAT THE FEET!

No one needs to tell you that motorcycle boots protect your feet. A sure grip on any surface is vital; your feet are in regular contact with the ground, every time you stop. In the process, your feet may become acquainted with pavement grime, spilled oil, curbs, branches, rocks, sand, gravel, water, mud and/or other debris that on and off road riders may encounter. In very direct terms, your feet need protection, which means good, motorcycle specific foot ware.

If you happen to be a rider that engages in a more spirited side of motorcycling, low bike angles, may even include the scraping of motorcycle parts, and/or the sides of your boots on the pavement, you are a candidate for even better boots.

When you feel the sides of your boots scrape, you will REALLY appreciate that your feet have adequate boot protection.

In the event of a mishap, that will be the day you will be the most thankful for all your protective gear.

THE MAIN POINT ABOUT MOTORCYCLE BOOT SELECTION

All that protection stuff is the vital purpose of our boots. But if they aren’t comfortable, we may be apt to leave them at home. This brings the point get a good pair of motorcycle boots that are COMFORTABLE for you. Of course, let’s not wrapped up in the spokes here, tennis shoes are comfortable, but to fulfill that protective role at least wear high tops. There are LOTS and LOTS of different motorcycle boots. Let’s consider some of the popular ones.

LEATHER BOOTS WITH LACES

Motorcycle boots with laces deserve a special mention. Although some riders like the fact that laces can be tied to provide a real snug, secure fit, those laces “can” present a safety hazard in the event they come untied while riding.

Loose laces, or loose ends of any kind (such as a long scarf, or even some frayed jeans), can translate into bad news on a motorcycle. Imagine the effect of a boot lace getting caught in a chain while riding on the highway. Or how about a lace getting caught on a foot peg, brake pedal, gear shifter, or any other part while dismounting a motorcycle? The first example could end in tragedy and the second may end up in simply getting tripped and dropping the bike.

A workable solution is to always DOUBLE TIE your laces if this is the kind of boot you prefer, then tuck the excess into the top of the boots.

CLASSIC LEATHER BOOTS

The boot that is most readily identified with motorcycles is the classic engineer style, which has been around a long time, and which could also be considered the iconic “Biker Boot.”

Engineer boots are black with adjustable leather straps across the ankles, and at the top of the shaft.

Another classic biker boot is the “Harness Boot.” These are different enough from engineer boots that they can be readily differentiated; however, it’s not unusual to hear someone incorrectly identify a harness boot as an engineer boot.

Harness boots are usually about the same height as engineer boots, so they share that in common. Harness boots are also available in black, so that’s another similarity. But brown harness boots are readily available, as well.

The differences between the boots are that harness boots usually feature a square toe and engineer boots featured rounded toes.

Finally, a defining feature of harness boots is their non-adjustable leather straps that attach to metal rings on both sides of the boots near the ankle region. Regardless, if you prefer a classic biker boot, one of these two will serve you well, and in either case, the better ones are made of heavy duty leather, have strong soles, and may have a steel toe. They are usually a “slip on” style, as opposed to a zipper, buckle or lace variety.

NOTE: Steel toes obviously offer more protection around the toes and are popular with construction workers and tradesmen. It seems like a good idea for bikers, and steel toes are commonly featured on bikers’ feet.

But, just because they have been common for many decades does not make them the best choice.

An alternative to a steel toes would be a “safety toe,” or what may sometimes be referred to as a “composite toe” and other manufacturers may have additional names.

These protective toe elements are NOT made of metal. They are lighter, which is an advantage for riders who also walk in their boots. But a more important advantage is that in some motorcycle wrecks, a steel toe may become crushed into a rider’s toes and may need to be cut away by emergency workers. I’m sure you can picture a variety of unfriendly scenes. The point here is to not just presume that your motorcycle boots should have steel toes, even if many boots feature them.

MOTORCYCLE ZIPPER BOOTS

Good motorcycle boots protect your feet, ankle and shins. They cover the lower part of your legs. They may NOT be the easiest things to get on and off. Enter the style of motorcycle boots with zippers that manufacturers provide to make the task of getting boots on and off your feet as easy as possible. Interestingly enough, you can’t even always tell by looking at a boot that is being worn whether it uses a vertical zipper, or not. For some boot styles, the zipper is cleverly hidden so a biker may not even let on to others that he’s living on easy street when it comes to wearing boots. In fact, just because a boot does have a zipper opening, does not necessarily mean that it cannot also be a waterproof boot, as well. For those zipper boots that are waterproof, the manufacturing trick is that they have included a leather pleat that unfolds when you unzip the boot. In effect, the leather pleat creates a waterproof seal, regardless of whether the zipper is open or closed. But you will still want to ensure that the zipper boots you are looking at do state they are waterproof, since that’s not a universal feature.

SPORT RIDING BOOTS

High quality motorcycle boots for sport bikers typically offer better protective qualities than classic boots, since sport bikes, by their very nature, go faster, and are often by riders who are more performance demanding than any other motorbike category. More specifically, boots for sport riders are often purpose-built to offer better ankle and shin protection than classic boots, in the event of a crash. Some even have ceramic or metal external tabs (not steel toes) to endure the pavement scraping that aggressive, high-performance riders may subject their feet to. Furthermore, good sport bike boots offer very durable soles, and typically have some type of reinforced toe (usually “not” steel).

MOTOCROSS BOOTS

MX boots or off-road boots in general, offer very heavy-duty feet/ankle protection. Given that MX riders are constantly mixing their feet up with the elements, these boots are TOUGH. They are usually taller and stiffer than regular motorcycle boots or even asphalt racing boots. (On the other hand, as a point of comparison, MX boots are not as stiff as downhill skiing boots). Motocross boots are constructed from leather, metal, plastic and/or other man-made composite materials to completely wrap our feet, ankles and shins in their own cocoon of durable protection.

Unlike street boots, which can include some give and take around the ankles and shins, MX boots are usually worn with a tight fit. They are securely fastened up and down the shaft with a set of locking buckles that allow the rider to quickly adjust his/her comfort preferences and to ensure optimum fit. Additionally, good MX boots offer a padded interior, including even the tongue and collar, just to make sure these boots can be made as comfortable as possible. Off-road riders need VERY GOOD protection for their feet!

WATERPROOF MOTORCYCLE BOOTS

If only ALL motorcycle boots were waterproof. But they’re not. And if only all motorcycle boots that “said” they were waterproof, truly were! Alas, some boot makers may embellish their waterproof characteristics. Water “resistant” boots can handle a little wetness and keep your feet dry, whether that is a light drizzle, or a short ride home after the rain starts. Also, such boots typically require routine maintenance, such as waterproof sprays or other leather applications, to keep out as much water as possible. But if you are a long-distance rider who may spend all day riding in the rain, or someone who has a long commute, you could truly benefit from a real “waterproof” boot.

Another option for you to consider are RAIN BOOTS COVERS. These are lightweight, foldable, nylon-like boots that you wear over your existing boots. They are like a rain coast for your feet. They won’t win you any fashion contests, but they do a pretty good job of keeping your feet dry.

Motorcycle Trip Planning, RiderCourse Center

I was reading at; about.com: Motorcycles,

Information is too valuable to not pass on;

Motorcycle Trip Planning

Motorcycle trips demand far more planning than the equivalent journey in a car. Though riding provides an inherent sense of freedom, practical limitations require motorcyclists to think ahead when choosing to hit the open road.

For starters, most motorcycles are limited in their storage capacity. Though all-out touring bikes such as the Honda Gold Wing and the BMW K1200LT offer numerous hard cases for the storage of extra clothes and gear, long distance riders are often forced to make tough decisions about the details of their trips, and how much of what items they need to pack.

Important Points to Consider

The first questions you'll want to ask yourself when planning a trip pertain to how long you plan on being gone, where you intend to go, and what you have in mind for lodging.

First on your list of "must pack" items is a safety and repair kit, which we've covered in a separate article.

Unless you're riding a fully fledged touring motorcycle, you'll probably need to invest in some type of storage bags; backpacks don't count. Options include saddlebags (which rest straddle the seat and rest on either side of the rear wheel, and are also known as panniers,) and tank bags, which sit directly atop the fuel tank (and often have handy clear plastic windows for displaying maps.) While hard bags offer more weather protection than soft bags, they are also costlier, add more weight, and require more involved installation. Centrally positioned tail bags are another option if you need even more storage.

Inspect Your Bike

While more detailed inspection and maintenance practices can be found in our motorcycle maintenance section, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's T-CLOCS method is an efficient way to inspect your bike before traveling:

T: Tires.
Make sure both tires are properly inflated, using an air pressure monitor that you bring with you on rides. Don't risk riding on tires that might need replacement; if suspect a tire will not last long enough for a ride, have it replaced.

C: Controls.
Are your cables (clutch and brakes) and controls intact and working?

L: Lights.
Make sure your headlights (high & low beam), turn signals, and brake lights work.

O: Oils & fluids.
Check everything from engine oil and coolant to brake fluid.

C: Chassis.
Ensure that the frame, suspension, chain, and fasteners are all secure and intact.

S: Stands.
Make sure the center stand and/or side stand isn't cracked or bent, and that springs properly hold the assembly away from the pavement when stowed.

For a more detailed, downloadable inspection checklist, go to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's website.

Packing Tips

Packing for a long distance motorcycle ride is a delicate balance between bringing enough items to ensure comfort, and not overloading yourself with unnecessary weight and bulk. After you've planned your route, you'll want to check the weather forecast and get an idea of what to expect in terms the elements.

A good touring suit is an excellent investment, and when choosing your clothes, consider packing several thin layers of clothing, rather than a few thick ones. Flexibility is the key to staying comfortable; it's far better to have the option to stop and shed or add layers as necessary, than to shiver or sweat your way through what would otherwise be an enjoyable, scenic route.

Be sure to bring energy bars or trail mix and water; if hunger or thirst strikes while you're far from convenience stores or gas stations, the nourishment will come in handy and keep your riding skills sharp.

When loading up your bike, always put heavier, more solid items on the bottom and sides closer to the bike (to centralize weight.) Lighter items should go on top. If you don't have saddlebags or tank bags, you should consider using bungee nets to secure loose items. If you must travel with items secured by a bungee net, ensure that they are snug and will not get loosened by winds or g-forces. Again, placing heavier , wider, and more stable items at the bottom will provide an anchor for looser, floppier pieces (like sleeping pads or pillows.)

Finally, equip yourself well. Always wear a full-face helmet for maximum protection-- not only against accidents, but also from the elements. Full-face helmets can provide a shield from rain and cold winds, and if constructed with ventilation, can also provide a certain level of comfort in warm weather. It may feel constricting in heat, but the overall benefits of choosing safety over style are vast when considering your long-term health and well being.

Plan, Plan, Plan...

Though it's tempting to hit the open road and simply follow your nose, don't forget that you're more vulnerable to the elements, fatigue, and potentially serious injury on a motorcycle. Prepare yourself with clothing appropriate for the weather. Plan a route and, if you don't have a portable GPS system, do whatever it takes not to get lost-- even if it means taping directions to the top of your fuel tank. Err in the direction of filling up with gas too frequently; because of their relatively low cruising range, most bikes will barely make it across some of the North American stretches of highway that are sparsely populated. When in doubt, fill up.

Pace your travels realistically. Don't try to ride so many hours in a day that it might affect your reflexes or decision making ability; after all, most of the fun is in the journey, not simply in reaching a destination. While riding, be sure to stop whenever necessary-- whether for a snack, a stretch, or a nap. The simple act of taking a breather will make the ride all the more enjoyable.

...But Don't Overplan!

Once you've prepared sufficiently, enjoy the possibility of the unexpected. Riding requires a certain amount of discipline and logistical planning, but part of the joy of the journey is the process. Be open to re-writing your plans when necessary, and you'll have a blast no matter where you end up.

What to Wear When You Ride – and Why

What to Wear When You Ride – and Why RiderCourse courtesy reprint

by JEFF on APRIL 30, 2009

Protect yourself with quality riding gear.
As originally published Motorcycle.com

By Jeff Cobb
Motorcycle Safety News

Just because you are free to ride your motorcycle or scooter in the U.S. with hardly enough clothing for a beach party does not mean it’s a good idea. And just because riders in at least 30 states may legally ride without helmets, also does not make this recommended.

Gear comes styled for every kind of riding, at several price points, and designed more comfortably than ever. Aside from its obvious intent of protecting you in a crash, proper clothing and a helmet can actually reduce fatigue and improve your focus.

And whether you think it’s too hot out, or gear costs too much, or you just don’t feel like it – none of these are excuses not to protect yourself. How would those who care about you like it if you were hurt or killed? You owe it to them, and you owe it to yourself.

While some want to debate the merits of helmets and gear, when push comes to shove, riders know. Or ask any racer. He or she understands a crash could happen any time and what are they required to wear?

Helmet

A helmet (and optional ear plugs) protects you from hearing loss, or being pelted by debris, insects, rain, hail, and it could one day save your life.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates helmets improve your odds by 37 percent. That is, for every 100 riders killed not wearing one, 37 riders could have lived had they all been wearing helmets.

There are several standards – U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Snell, and some European standards. While the Snell Foundation says its standard is superior, this is open to debate.

Based on several studies, we recommend at least the federally mandated DOT standard. Identified by a label on the back of the helmet, the DOT standard means the manufacturer says it will pass specific tests for impact protection, penetration, staying on your head, and more.

There are “half helmets,” partial coverage, and full face. A full face provides the most protection.

Jacket and pants

Well-designed rider clothing keeps you protected from windburn, sunburn, exhaust burns, and is a comfortable first line of defense.

Some riders wear a motorcycle jacket, but complete the outfit with street pants. Fact is, your legs are very vulnerable so why not protect them just as well?

In a crash, cotton dungarees tear through in less than one second. Shorts, khakis or sweat pants offer negligible safety value. Fashion leather may shred as instantly as cloth. If you choose leather, make sure it’s suitable for motorcycle use.

According to Dana Grindle, owner of Bates Custom Leathers in Signal Hill, Calif., while certain textiles can do a good job, especially when combined with built-in armor, high-tensile cowhide still offers the most abrasion resistance and tear-through strength.

For the heat of summer, manufacturers offer perforated leather or abrasion-resistant mesh. There are also several brands of textile jeans, if you absolutely don’t want the fully kitted look.

Whatever you wear, make sure it’s protective, said Rae Tyson, an experienced rider and NHTSA spokesman.

“Some of the worst crashes I’ve seen have been with people who fell off the motorcycle who were wearing short sleeves, or shorts, or a tank top, etc., and it’s not a pretty sight,” Tyson said, “Last time I checked your body was never designed for that.”

And Grindle concurred, adding motorcycle clothing can cost significant money, but if you crash once, you will not question whether it was worth it.

“Do you know what 20 mph does to your skin,” Grindle asked, “Oh my God, it can take it to the bone.”

This may sound dramatic, but she’s not kidding.

The skin covering your joints – knuckles, elbows, hips, knees, ankles, and shoulders – is especially easy to damage, and a crash can remove it, and even flesh, and healing can take a year or longer.

Built-in armor, or strapped-on armor under your clothing at these points is highly recommended!

Some gear comes with European-standard armor, rated “CE” level I (good), or level 2 (best).

Motorcycle clothing sold in the U.S. is not required to meet any certification, however. So be wary, but understand some premium American manufacturers have crash tested their armor and found it as good as or better than otherwise certified armor.

Boots and gloves

The hands and feet are intricate mechanisms made of many delicate bones. They can be crushed or broken far too easily. Boots should be heavy-duty leather with hard armor around the ankle, and ideally padding too. Leather gloves with long gauntlets should likewise have impact protection on the knuckles and palms, and even wrists.

Good advice

Spend enough time researching and talk to your dealer and others about your options. There are many great choices available and you should never gamble with your safety.

They say that sooner or later everyone crashes. If true, what would you want to be wearing if it became your turn?

Scooter classification FAQ RiderCourse Center

RiderCourse Center is quoting the Texas Department of Public Safety, Motorcycle Safety Unit website;

A scooter is not a legal vehicle classification so it will need to be registered as either a moped or motorcycle and you will be required to have a class M license. By legal definition a moped must meet all three of the following criteria and be on our online Certified Moped List prior to registration. If the moped in question meets the criteria, but is not on our list it may be added by following the directions on our website for submitting a Moped Affidavit. If a two-wheeled vehicle does not meet all three criteria it must be registered as a motorcycle. Affidavit (to request approval as a moped)

• cannot attain a speed more than 30 miles per hour
• has a piston displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or less and
• does not require the operator to shift gears

Road Guardians

A Word From the Director by Vicki Sanfelipo

On January 7th, we launched the "Road Guardians" (RGs); a national program of Resources, Rewards, & Recognition focused on encouraging life-long learning among motorcyclists. We hope all motorcyclists find RGs useful whether they are enjoying the free resources on our website at www.roadguardians.org or participating in our annual membership program (available only to ASMI students who have completed an ASMI class). Many of our resources are free and you can help us keep them updated.

Texas Motorcycle License Law, courtesy RiderCourse Center

Effective September 1, 2009, the State of Texas requires the completion of a Basic Motorcycle Course to receive a class "M" endorsement on your license. If you move to Texas, and have an existing motorcycle operators license, the endorsement can be carried over, that is not a "new" license, it was an "existing" license. Scooters require a motorcycle operators license, there is no classification of scooter in the Texas law, if the vehicle is not included on the Texas approved moped listing.

There is no short cut, or alternative option at this time. It does not matter how much training, or riding experience you have, the completion of the 15 hour Basic Course course is the only option we have available at this time.

Remember, RiderCourse Center did not write the Motorcycle License or Scooter license law, it was voted into existence by a majority in the House and the Senate. Currently, we are seeking an alternate method to allow a rider to demonstrate their level of skill. It will be a while before that option is even viable.

Thanks

Andy Long

RiderCourse Center