Popular Motorcycle Rider Education Program Begins June 3 at GCC

Seeking the wind in your hair and that sense of freedom that comes from the open road? Have gas prices been putting such a dent in your wallet that you have been giving serious thought to replacing your car with a motorcycle? Have you always hoped to learn to ride a motorcycle but had not had the chance until now? 

With motorcycle use on the rise in the U.S., particularly among women, men 50 and over and people of all ages who wish to save on gas costs, there’s never been a better time to enroll in the Connecticut Motorcycle Rider Education Program’s Basic Rider Course at Gateway Community College (GCC). Cost for the course is $200. 

Courses begin June 3 and run throughout the summer at Gateway’s North Haven Campus. As exhilarating as riding a motorcycle is, it’s challenging as well. Safety is paramount.  

The basic rider course offers expert instruction in basics like turning, shifting and braking and also includes instruction on driving in traffic and on the responsibilities that come with riding a motorcycle. It also features more advanced street-riding techniques. 

The course consists of 20 hours of classroom and on-cycle instruction. Motorcycles and helmets are provided. You are out on the bikes in all kinds of weather, so bring rain gear and warm clothes.  

A few key facts about the course: 
• Learning requires alertness and some physical – so you are encouraged to get to class well rested!
• Motorcycling requires great deal of hand-eye coordination and a strong sense of balance. 
• Operating any vehicle brings responsibility and risk. 
• Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and classes fill very fast. Sign up today!
• You must attend and participate in all sessions in sequence, without exception. If not, you have to register for another course, pay again and start from the beginning. 
• It’s best to register in person at the GREAT Center, GCC, 20 Church Street, New Haven. 

For more information call:  203-285-2300. 
According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, cyclists travelled an estimated 29 billion miles on motorcycles in a single year. Get ready to join them!