​​Chris Hawkey — the co-host of KFAN Radio's “Power Trip Morning Show" and a Twin Cities country music performer — has been riding motorcycles for 40 years. However, he knows there's always room to brush up on your skills.

Hawkey took one of our Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center (MMSC) intermediate courses earlier this summer to make sure he could enjoy the freedom of taking his motorcycle on the road safely. Riding a motorcycle can be risky. As of Aug. 22, there have been 43 reported motorcycle fatalities so far this year, compared to 48 at this time last year.

“The worst thing you can do when you are a motorcycle rider is become overconfident," Hawkey said. “I think it's a good idea, even for people who have been riding for a long time. You're learning things that will make you safer on the road. I know I came out  feeling more confident and that I am a better motorcycle rider."

Our training program has served Minnesota riders for more than 35 years with affordable, high-quality, professional training and education. Instructors at 22 Minnesota state colleges and universities are certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and dedicated to building and improving your riding skills.

Even experienced riders can use a refresher course once in a while. That's why we offer advanced and expert courses, along with basic and intermediate. The hands-on courses cover everything from braking, stopping, counter-steering, making tight or U-turns and how to control the bike in traffic. Classes take place all across the state and some include online modules.

Of course, there are other things riders and drivers can do to make sure we all make it home to our loved ones.

Riders, wear full protective gear, including a helmet, preferably with a full-face cover. It can be the difference between life and death. Make sure your gear is “high-viz " to help you stand out in traffic. Learn more about going “high-viz" here.

Other things that can save your life:

• Ride as though other drivers don't see you. Don't ever assume another driver knows you're there.
• Never ride impaired or distracted.
• Use turn signals at every lane change or turn.
• Ride at safe speeds and maintain a safe following distance.
• Ride your ride, it's not a roadway competition

Drivers, look twice for motorcycles, especially when changing lanes and driving through intersections. Motorcycles are harder to see in traffic and their distance and speed are difficult to judge due to their smaller size.

Remember:

• Drive at safe speeds.
• Give riders room.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
• Put away any distractions.

There's still plenty of time left in the season – it's never too late to brush up on and enhance your skills to feel more confident on the road.  Learn more about our MMSC and rider training courses.​