Reasons to Take a Refresher Riding Course

When it comes to riding your motorcycle, you probably feel like you know its limitations and sweet spots. That being the case, why would you ever consider taking a safety refresher course? Shouldn’t you, an experienced rider, be teaching a class like that yourself? Won’t it kill your street cred as a rider? The answer to both questions is, definitely not!

The fact of the matter is that while you may be experienced on a bike, you are likely not up on the very latest in safety information, laws and techniques. The truth is that people have a way of getting comfortable and complacent, and whether on a motorcycle you own or when you’re enjoying motorcycle rentals in Las Vegas, there is no room for silly mistakes.

Luckily, there are organizations you can reach out to for the latest in riding education, like the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). The MSF has the most comprehensive motorcycle course offerings nationwide, ranging from basic e-courses to street strategies to advanced riding. For now, here are some of the reasons you should consider taking a refresher course this upcoming year.

Staying up on changing laws

Laws change frequently and without a whole lot of publicity. What was legal last year may have been outlawed this year. Often times, these changes come with hefty fees that are strictly enforced at first. Take, for example, states that outlawed talking on the phone while driving. What was okay one day was being heavily ticketed the next. Hundreds of dollars in fines could be your penalty if you miss the memo on a law change.

Keeping up with techniques

As with any skills-based activity, there are always going to be people coming up with improvements to how it is done—a safer way to lay a bike down in an emergency, etc. By attending a refresher, you may learn something you never considered or a new way to do something you never wanted to think about doing in real life. The simple fact of the matter is that practicing a maneuver will help you to pull it off on the road in an emergency situation. Having the resources of a certified instructor can mean the difference between thinking you have the skills you need to ride safely and knowing you do.

In it for the money

Depending on your insurance provider, there may be a monetary reason to take a safety refresher course. In some states, the DMV will waive testing fees if a rider can show their certificate. What’s more, some companies give as much as a 10 percent discount on your motorcycle insurance premiums for taking an annual refresher course. This also holds true for some motorcycle manufacturing companies, which offer discounts on bikes and accessories for riders who prove their courses are up to date.

Want to ride, but don’t own a motorcycle? You shouldn’t forgo the scenic route just because you don’t own a bike. At Escape Eagles, choose from a selection of top-notch motorcycle rentals in Las Vegas. Our rentals are perfect for day trips or weeklong adventures!

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