Motorcycle Safety Season Starts Soon Published April 9, 2014 By Airman 1st Class David Bernal Del Agua 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is around the corner, and riders will soon start roaring out of their garages and cruising the open roads. The excitement of riding a motorcycle may be overwhelming for some, but every rider must remember to wear the proper equipment and follow the rules. The 22nd Air Refueling Wing safety office offers classes for both beginner and advanced riders to stay safe. "Airmen can pay for the classes themselves, or as most people prefer, they can take the classes through us," said Stephen Hagler, 22nd Air Refueling Wing motorcycle safety coordinator. "We take care of the registration with all the current paperwork and give Airmen a brief about the class." The Advanced Rider Course and Basic Rider Course 2 are offered every other month, so Airmen need to sign up ahead of time to make sure the classes are still available. The basic course is offered in Andover, Kan., and the advanced course is offered in El Dorado, Kan. Airmen need to fill out two forms; one to be routed through the squadron for approval to ride, and one to gauge the experience level of the rider for placement in the courses. "The safety office has a list of all the unit safety reps that can help with any questions," said Hagler. "Those folks should also have identified themselves during in-processing with their personnel." Just because a rider can attend the course, the safety office said people should be aware of hazards found throughout the local area. "It is interesting riding around in Kansas because of changing wind speeds and origin of the winds," said Ron Haskins, 22nd Director of Staff motorcycle safety representative. "Sand on the road is also a hazard to be conscious about when riding." Hagler suggested having a meeting with the squadron motorcycle safety representatives to find out the different specific dangers found throughout the year. "We do have deer during the fall, and motorcycles don't have the cage around them that cars have," said Hagler. Inexperience is one of the main reasons for accidents while hazards on the road are another cause. More people die in traffic mishaps in the Air Force than they do 'down range'. "We offer the opportunity for the training so that you can have the experience," said Hagler. "Don't exceed your comfort level on your motorcycle. Get the training, get the experience, and expect the unexpected." "According to riders, there are two classifications for motorcycle riders," said Hagler. "Those who have dropped their bikes, and those who are going to. Riders don't have to fall into either of those categories if they follow the guidelines and rules that are put in place. Airmen should talk to riders who have been in the area for a while, they should make themselves visible, and they should also make other drivers know they're there, said Hagler. Riding season will soon be in top gear, and it is important Airmen remember the things they learn in either their motorcycle safety classes or from other experienced riders if they want to enjoy their bikes. "You can't put a price on safety or life," said Haskins.