Riding motorcycles with safety Published May 29, 2008 By Airman Amber Kelly-Woodward 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE,Ill. -- A motorcycle is preferred for several reasons, they are cheap, enjoyable to ride and more fuel efficient. However, in comparison to a car, they have little protection. Cars enclose to provide safety, they have four wheels making them more stable, they have seatbelts for passenger safety and they have windshield wipers for better visibility. We all know what operational risk management means, now we need to practice personal risk management, to be safe everywhere, all the time, said Marilee Reuter, 375th AW Safety Office. When buying a motorcycle, it is important that the buyer has the right fit. The rider's feet should be able to touch the ground while sitting on the motorcycle. Size is another factor to consider. A buyer interested in a larger bike needs to be strong enough to lift the bike in case it falls. However, if buying a smaller bike, know that it will have less speed and performance. Riding a motorcycle requires more skill, thus it is recommended that riders take a motorcycle safety class prior to riding their bike. All riders should also individually get to know their bike by reading the owner's manual and practicing in a safe and empty area. Motorcycles follow the same traffic laws which means riders should learn and abide by those laws. Follow the speed limits, do not drive while intoxicated and practice defensive driving skills. Riders need to know their limits, as well as their bike's limits, to be safe. Protection gear provides protection from the elements, some protection from injury visibility for other motorists. According to Department of Defense Instruction 6055.4 and Air Force Instruction 91-207 listed are the required protective equipment articles: -Operator and any passenger must wear a Department of Transportation approved helmet. -Operator and any passenger must wear impact resistant goggles, wrap around glasses or a full-face shield on their helmet. The helmet must be worn with chinstrap properly fastened. -Brightly colored upper garment during the day and reflective during the night. The outer garment will be clearly visible and not covered. Retro-reflective vests and harnesses are required to be worn at all times while on DOD facilities. -Long sleeved shirts or jackets. -Full fingered motorcycle glove or mittens. -Long trousers. -Sturdy over the ankle footwear. "Military members have to wear their gear on and offbase," said Mrs. Reuter. We will pull someone over if they are not wearing the proper gear, said Staff Sgt. David Arreola, 375th Security Forces Squadron NCOIC. Motorcyclists need to register at the 375th Security Forces Squadron in the Pass and Registration Section. The operator needs proof of attending an approve motorcycle safety course and possess a valid state license with motorcycle endorsement. "If a motorcyclist is found without proper registration, we will escort them off base," said Sergeant Arreola. "We also make sure they have their motorcycle safety card." The rules apply to anyone on base, including family members and civilians, said Mrs. Reuter. Sergeant Arreola's last advice was to always be more observant of the other cars. The safety office is available to answer questions at 256-6311.