Motorcycle Safety Foundation | Basic RiderCourse Overview
Getting Started
Over 9 million motorcyclists nationwide have graduated from a Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCourse since 1973.
Motorcycles are provided for your use during the course.
Before the on-cycle riding exercises, you will explore basic learn-to-ride topics, including fundamental riding skills, mental perceptual strategies, and behavioral self-assessment activities. These topics will be covered using one of MSF’s online eCourses, which requires approximately five hours to complete. An eCourse enrollment link will be provided by the training site so you can register for the eCourse at no additional charge.
eCourse Instruction
- The ePackage 1 eCourse is completed online before attending your first in‑person session.
- The ePackage 1 eCourse prepares you for approximately 10 hours of practical riding in a controlled, off-street environment.
Riding Range Instruction
- At the riding range, your RiderCoach (certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation) will instruct you on riding a motorcycle.
- Throughout the course, you will progressively learn new riding skills and develop responsible riding habits.
What You Will Learn
- Motorcycle control layout
- Motorcycle operation
- Routine and emergency maneuvers
- Safe and responsible riding habits and strategies
- Types of gear for comfort and safety
- Effect of alcohol and drugs on safe riding
Student Testing
- Course concludes with a knowledge test and riding skills evaluation.
- Course-completion card waives the need to take an DMV skills test.
- Successful graduates may qualify for insurance discounts.
Find a Basic RiderCourse
Near You
NYSMSP expects to train 18,000 motorcyclists per year and operates nearly 40 training sites throughout New York State. NYSMSP is always looking for qualified riders who want to become MSF-Certified RiderCoaches.
