Basic
RiderCourse (BRC)
The
Basic RiderCourse is usually a two-day course
taught by RiderCoaches certified by the Motorcycle
Safety Foundation (MSF) using curriculum developed
by MSF. All riders in California under 21 years
of age must successfully complete this course
to obtain a motorcycle license or endorsement.
Upon successful completion of the Basic RiderCourse,
students are given a Certificate of Completion
of Motorcycle Training (DL389). The motorcycle
riding test given by the DMV may be waived with
this certification and graduates may also qualify
for insurance premium discounts with some motorcycle
insurers.
The
Basic RiderCourse is aimed at beginning riders
of all ages 15 1/2 or older. To take this course,
you must present a valid driver’s license,
learner’s permit, or a certificate showing
completion of classroom portion of driver’s
education. If under 18, a waiver must be signed
by a parent or guardian.
A
minimum of five hours classroom instruction prepares
the student for at least ten hours of practical
riding in a controlled, off-street environment.
Motorcycles and helmets for use in the course
are included in your course fee. Fees range from
$150 for students under 21 to $250 for others
depending on the training site. Most motorcycles
used in the course are loaned by local dealers
and are either 125cc or 250cc.
In
this course, you'll learn how to operate a motorcycle
safely, with emphasis on the special skills and
mental attitudes necessary for dealing with traffic.
RiderCoaches
will start you off with straight-line riding,
turning, shifting and stopping. You'll gradually
progress to cornering, swerving and emergency
braking. In the classroom you'll learn about the
different types of motorcycles, their characteristics,
and how they operate. The RiderCoaches, all experienced
motorcyclists, will advise you on what to wear
for comfort, visibility and protection. You'll
find out how alcohol and other drugs affect your
ability to ride safely. A very important segment
of the course will show you how to create your
own strategy for riding in traffic, and how to
deal with critical situations. The course concludes
with a knowledge test and skill evaluation.
