Spring is in the air. With that comes the breakout of a two-wheeled species that is either loved or loathed: motorcycles. Unlike the statement “You can never teach an old dog new tricks,” motorcycle riders can always improve their motorcycle skills, both physically and intellectually. The Wing Safety Office has made this an easy task this year with classes, rodeos, and briefings.
What better way is there to improve your riding skill than to take a refresher class? There are many classes throughout the season. This includes beginner, intermediate and advanced classes that are available right here at Hill AFB. These classes are considered official business, so they are free and riders do not have to take leave (as per the DOD and the USAF). They are also mandatory for military, but dependents and civilians may sign up for the class and may attend when slots are available.
Even if you are not required to take a class right now, sign up anyway; you will always improve your riding ability. Who knows, the abilities you develop and expand upon from the class might save your life someday.
On May 4, the Annual Hill AFB Motorcycle Rodeo will be held in the BX parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The rodeo is expected to be twice as big as last year. Vendors include Harley, BMW and Victory, to name a few. The Utah Highway Patrol will be giving demonstrations and there will be food vendors. If you’re up for the challenge, there will be the Impaired Riding Race and the Slow Ride contest. Included with the rodeo is the mandatory pre-season brief that will be held at the base theater at 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Another event to a mark on your calendar is the annual See Me Save Me Campaign on June 16. This ride will kick off at Hill AFB and consist of a two-hour ride around the local area with a police escort. That’s right: No red lights for the procession. Last year, there were well over 1,500 motorcycles participating in demonstration of motorcycle awareness to the populace.
This year, the 75th ABW Motorcycle Program Manager and founder of the See Me Save Me Campaign, Allan Woods, would like to challenge all riders who are available June 16 to join us and help us try to save some lives.
Motorcycle safety events:
• Annual Motorcycle Rodeo
May 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Base Exchange parking lot
• Pre-season riders brief
May 4, 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Base Theater
Contact the safety office for dates and times for basic and advanced rider’s courses.
All-in-all, we have a great year planned for Hill AFB motorcycle riders. If you have any questions, contact your unit Motorcycle Safety Representative.
