MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Twelve Marines attended the first Military Sport Bike Rider course at the motorcycle training area near the South Mesa Club, Oct. 21.
During the course, Maj. Gen. Michael R. Lehnert, commanding general, Marine Corps Installations West, spoke to the class about safety and protective gear used when riding.
“We’re losing more Marines right now to motorcycle accidents than combat,” said Lehnert.
The course was designed by the Motor Cycle Safety Foundation for the Navy and Marine Corps, said Blaine Bromwell, traffic safety manager, MCI West. It targets sport motorcycle bike riders because during fiscal 2008, 22 of 25 motorcycle fatalities were on sport bikes, he added.
The MSR course is for advanced sport bike riders and teaches them better breaking and cornering skills as well as show them the general capabilities of the motorcycles, said Kevin L. Frantum, lead instructor, Base Safety.
The training consists of three classroom and five training hours on the riding course, added Frantum.
During the classroom time, Marines evaluated their risk levels, riding abilities and discussed how mental attitudes affect their riding.
Frantum explained a positive mental attitude is important when riding because the consequences of the rider’s actions affect everyone; families on the road, their family and their command.
“That’s why if they have a high-risk level they can figure out what it takes to adapt,” said Frantum.
“It has been very informative and has good structure,” said Sgt. Michael A. Kalas, helicopter mechanic, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361. “It would be better if they maybe stretched from more than just one day to have more time on certain (riding) exercises.”
Before departing, Lehnert asked Marines for feedback and said he would like for more experienced riders to mentor junior Marines and beginner riders.
“I want you to enjoy your bikes…I just want you to come back alive,” stressed Lehnert. “The cost of this (class) is small in comparison to the emotional loss.”