Motorcycle safety Published March 29, 2007 By Tony Janssen 90th Space Wing Safety Office F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- As the weather starts to turn warmer, all military members need to be aware of the mandatory training and personal protective requirements for motorcycles including all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes and street cycles. All bikers and passengers riding on base and service members driving off base either on or off duty must wear the appropriate and required personal protective equipment. PPE requirements for motorcycles, motor scooters and moped operations on Air Force installations and operation by military personnel off Air Force installations include the following: - Both the operator and any passenger must wear a protective helmet. Helmets must meet, at a minimum, U.S. Department of Transportation standards and be properly worn and fastened. - Both the operator and any passenger must wear impact resistant goggles, wrap-around glasses or a full-face shield on their helmet. A motorcycle windshield alone does not meet this requirement. - A brightly colored or contrasting vest or jacket worn as an outer-upper garment during the day and reflective material worn during night riding for both the operator and passenger. BDUs and flight suits alone do not meet this requirement. The upper-outer garment will be clearly visible and not covered. A clearly visible reflective belt is the minimum acceptable reflective material for nighttime riding. - Long-sleeved shirts or jackets, full-fingered motorcycle gloves or mittens and long trousers for both riders should be worn. - Sturdy footwear, such as leather boots or over-the-ankle shoes, is strongly encouraged. Sandals, low quarter sneakers and similar footwear should not be worn. - All riders of off-road motorcycles and ATVs should also wear knee and shin guards and padded full-fingered gloves. Commanders and supervisors must interview each person in their squadron and determine if they are riding a motorcycle in accordance with the wing commander's policy. Some members may be tempted to join a "riders underground" where they store or stash their motorcycles at an off-base location and only ride downtown. Supervisors and commanders at all levels must ensure that riders are aware and comply with all training and PPE requirements as well as be alert for high-risk riders. Every squadron has a motorcycle safety representative who is the focal point for any motorcycle questions. The Air Force mandates drivers training for all personnel prior to riding a street motorcycle. There is no waiver if you have signed up for the class. Motorcycle safety foundation training is required for all military members riding street bikes on or off base and on or off duty and all Air Force civilians riding street bikes on base and off base as part of their duties. MSF training is optional but highly encouraged for off duty Air Force civilians, dependents over 18 years old, contractors and retirees. The first course to take before purchasing a bike or riding one is the motorcycle safety foundation basic rider's course. The 90th Space Wing ground safety office will pay for military, civilian employees and dependents to attend BRC training. The base contracts with the state of Wyoming to train our riders. Wyoming Department of Transportation provides motorcycles and helmets to those without bikes. After the long winter, it is important to conduct maintenance checks on the motorcycle: - Check tire pressure and look for dry rot or cracking sidewalls. Ensure there is adequate tread depth. - Verify all control operation, lube cables and check for fraying, rust, binding or kinks. Confirm all levers work smoothly, and the throttle operates smooth and snaps closed. - Inspect all hoses for leaks and dry rot. Charge the battery and check lights, oil and coolant levels. If there was no stabilizer in the fuel, flush the fuel system and replace filters. - Verify that the drive chain and belt tension is okay. Lube the chain and replace if there is excessive rust. Inspect bolts and hardware for security and missing pieces. For more information or to schedule for a BRC class call the 90th Space Wing Safety Office at 773-2430.