Motorcycle training relocated off-base

  • Published
  • By Carl Grusnick
  • 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Kirtland Air Force Base, NM --  Because of issues with the previous training site, Kirtland Air Force Base personnel who need mandatory Motorcycle Safety Foundation Training will have to attend classes off the installation. Formerly, Kirtland assigned personnel could attend MSF training sponsored by the 377th Air Base Wing Safety Office on-base, taught by MSF volunteers, free of charge.

"The location we used for the MSF training is no longer available," said Julie Biladeau, 377th ABW Safety Office Ground Safety Specialist. A new location to resume the motorcycle safety training on-base is being considered.

"I am doing a feasibility review on several candidate sites," adds Ms. Biladeau.

Once a site is identified and configured for the training on-base, classes will begin again. Ms. Biladeau said she expects the new location to be up and running by mid-August.

Until then, riders requiring training will have to attend courses in the local area. Sponsored by the New Mexico chapter of the MSF, both the basic and the experienced rider courses are regularly offered near the base.

MSF training is mandatory for all Airmen and Air Force civilians who operate motorcycles on-duty. Riders are also required to wear proper personal protective gear, including a Department of Transportation-approved helmet, full-fingered gloves and over-the-ankle footwear.

"The riding season is beginning, so now is a good time for supervisors and unit motorcycle safety representatives to meet with their riders to ensure proper compliance," said Ms. Biladeau.

Air Force units are required to fund the off-base MSF courses for active-duty Airmen and Air Force civilians who are required to have the training, said Ms. Biladeau.

Base riders should consult their unit motorcycle safety representative and New Mexico Motorcycle Safety Foundation website at http://www.nm-msp.org for more information on registering for the basic and experienced rider training courses.