LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Langley Airmen took part in a free advanced motorcycle training course Aug. 4-6 at the Langley Aero Club to learn techniques and practices to ride better and safer.
Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic brought instructors, gear and knowledge to riders for the course, which course serves as a way to help decrease motorcycle-related injuries and fatalities.
"Airmen love this course," said Lee Park, founder of the clinic and championship-winning motorcycle veteran. "Once they realize it's not some boring safety training, they're fighting to get enrolled."
Mr. Parks was asked to bring his clinic to Langley after its positive reception at other installations, including Beale Air Force Base, Calif., and Creech AFB, Nev.
More than 240 Airmen attended the mandatory motorcycle safety briefing Aug. 4, and each riding class served 18 Airmen. The response was "overwhelming," said Mr. Parks, citing the immediate results he observed on the track and in talking to students.
Riders were given an initial safety briefing, followed by lecture and a demonstration. The course culminated in an end-of-course exam in which students demonstrated their comprehension of the material to include cornering, throttle control and braking.
After taking the course, students take more precautions, applying the techniques they learned in order to be safer, said Mr. Parks.
"When riders take this class, they actually slow down at first because they realize they're riding over their heads," said Mr. Parks. "We give them all the tools to know how to ride correctly. They get satisfaction out of riding well, as opposed to riding fast."
Airmen were given more than hands-on riding tips -- instructors provided valuable insight for students to apply both on and off the road.
"Not only do we teach them on the course, we also teach attitude adjustments," said Mr. Parks. "One of the paradigm shifts we've had in this training is that guys are asking when they can practice again on the course rather than speeding down the highway."
Beginners weren't the only ones to take advantage of the free clinic.
"I've been riding a long time," said Maj. Don Thibeault, a basic motorcycle course instructor, "but this course helped me sharpen skills I may need in an emergency situation."
The 27-year motorcycle veteran added, "It's been a good refresher for me, and I always like to learn other ways of teaching to use in my own instruction."
Mr. Parks intends to continue working with Airmen and other servicemembers alike across the country, planning courses at Robins AFB, Ga., as well as various Marine Corps and Army installations.
"When Airmen can take satisfaction out of riding well, we've accomplished what we've set out to do," he said.
For more information, visit the
Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic Web site.