While motorcycle enthusiasts look incredibly cool taking their bikes out for a spin, riding can be extremely dangerous without proper safety precautions. Roads present risks regardless of your transportation mode, with cars accounting for the most accidents but motorcycles ranking close behind. To protect yourself and others on the road, understanding motorcycle safety and adopting careful riding practices is essential.
Many states now require completing a motorcycle safety course before obtaining your license. Often, passing these courses can waive portions of your licensing test. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation serves as the primary authority offering these courses. Throughout this guide, we’ll explore the top courses available through the MSF platform to help you enhance your skills and ride more safely.
Basic eCourse by Motorcycle Safety Foundation
The most popular motorcycle safety course in the country, the Basic eCourse by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation requires a nominal fee and serves as part of a comprehensive hands-on module. The course features extensive video content and interactive graphics that make learning engaging while helping you determine which bike suits you best. This standalone online course doesn’t require completion of the Basic RiderCourse and is available in Spanish.
Note that this online course alone won’t qualify as a license waiver in any state.
Basic RiderCourse by Motorcycle Safety Foundation
For aspiring motorcyclists, the Basic RiderCourse offers an excellent foundation in motorcycle safety. This comprehensive program includes the previously mentioned eCourse plus 5 hours of formal classroom instruction. The in-person component features approximately 10 hours of hands-on riding instruction with regular assessments to track your progress effectively.
Completing this course may qualify you for license test waivers in some states, and certain insurance companies offer special discounts to graduates.
Street Strategies eCourse by Motorcycle Safety Foundation
The Street Strategies eCourse targets experienced riders familiar with basic bike operation and control. Unlike the basic course, this advanced option skips entry-level riding fundamentals and focuses on developing strategies for navigating challenging road conditions and heavy traffic. This course cannot be used for state license waivers.
Introductory Motorcycle Experience (IME) by Motorcycle Safety Foundation
This specialized two-hour course caters to complete beginners who haven’t started riding yet. Rather than teaching actual riding skills, the program introduces participants to motorcycle components and basic controls. The course includes a self-assessment component to help you evaluate your readiness and understanding.
Street RiderCourse 1 by Motorcycle Safety Foundation
This half-day course represents the first part of MSF’s two-part Street RiderCourse series, designed specifically for newly licensed motorcyclists. Participants venture onto actual streets under the guidance of an experienced RiderCoach who provides real-time instruction and supervises skill-building activities. The program develops situational awareness and riding proficiency through hours of supervised practice in local riding areas.
Street RiderCourse 2 by Motorcycle Safety Foundation
Building upon Street RiderCourse 1, this advanced module deepens your street riding expertise through additional skill development and strategic training. The RiderCoach continues providing personalized instruction and answering questions during extended practical riding sessions. While you’ll need your own motorcycle, some locations may offer training bikes.
Advanced RiderCourse (ARC) by Motorcycle Safety Foundation
For riders seeking advanced training without a long-term commitment, the one-day Advanced RiderCourse (ARC) provides intensive skill enhancement. This in-person program combines traditional classroom learning with interactive activities designed to sharpen perception and situational awareness. The course includes personal risk assessment tools to help you identify and improve areas needing development. Use the link below and enter your zip code to find nearby locations.
Ultimate Bike-Bonding RiderCourse by Motorcycle Safety Foundation
Ideal for riders who prefer flexibility over formal classroom settings, this intensive five-hour session offers concentrated, hands-on training. The program features progressively challenging exercises modeled after police training courses, emphasizing precision maneuvers in confined spaces. You’ll need to bring your motorcycle license or permit along with an insured and registered motorcycle.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers both convenient online courses you can access from home and hands-on in-person training programs. Simply enter your zip code on their platform to locate the nearest course location. This gives you opportunities for practical learning while strengthening fundamental motorcycle riding skills. Whether you choose affordable online courses or comprehensive in-person training, you’ll gain valuable safety knowledge.
If you’re going to ride a motorcycle, prioritize safety above all else. Taking a motorcycle safety course ensures you understand proper riding techniques while protecting yourself and others on the road. Want extra protection? Consider adding a defensive driving course to your education! No amount of caution is excessive when it comes to motorcycle safety.
