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Explanation of the GWRRA Rider Education Program

Purpose

The GWRRA Rider Education Program (REP) is intended to make the motorcycle environment safer by reducing injuries and fatalities and increasing motorcyclist skills and awareness. The REP does not propose to have all the answers. However, our close-working relationship with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), as well as additional GWRRA programs and studies, has provided a wealth of information for use in establishing a comprehensive Rider Education Program. Through Commitment, Education and Application, we can reduce our accident rate significantly. Listed below are several benefits of a fully implemented GWRRA Rider Education Program at the Chapter level:

Increased rider knowledge
Increased rider safety skills
Prevention of accidents
Reduced injuries
Reduced fatalities
Improved general public image of motorcyclists
Enhanced enjoyment of motorcycle riding

The motorcycle community is already realizing many positive benefits from the GWRRA Rider Education Program. Through the efforts of the Rider Education Officers and participation of the membership and others, we will reach our goal of establishing the safest motorcycle environment possible.

Level I: Safety by Commitment - The first big step to success

Level I of the Rider Education Program is also referred to as Safe Miles. It represents the commitment of the Rider and/or the Co-Rider to practice safe motorcycle operation whenever they operate their motorcycle.

Safety is a state of mind which can only be attained through total commitment. Every successful accomplishment begins with a commitment to reach the intended objective. This is true of the Rider Education Program and includes a promise to learn for the sake of Rider, Co-Rider, friends and family, and others on the road.

Though there is no mileage requirement to enter Level I, the commitment to safe riding is tracked by the number of accident free miles since joining GWRRA. Accident free miles are accumulated in 5,000 mile increments and may be updated at yearly intervals.

Cost: $6.00 per participant - one time join/no renewal fee

Receive: "Safe Miles" patch, Rider (or Co-rider) Rocker, and mileage pin.

Level II: Safety by Education

Level II of the REP is also referred to as Tour Rider. It represents the commitment of the Rider and/or Co-Rider to be safer motorcycle riders by taking approved motorcycle riding courses at regular intervals.

GWRRA has chosen several educational training programs for the Riders and Co-Riders such as the MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) programs, the United Sidecar Association course, the CSC (Canadian Safety Council) programs, and the GWRRA's Advanced Riding courses and Parking Lot Practice programs. (See note in the Rider Education Manual on PLP.)

Completing these courses provides the foundation and skills for your quest to be a safe motorcycle rider. All recognized programs with the exception of the PLP are taught by qualified and Nationally certified instructors.

For the Co-Rider, we have provided an excellent seminar and “Two Up” programs to assist in their role in the safety aspect of motorcycle riding.

Motorcycle education goes "hand in hand" with commitment. The "on bike" education by MSF, USCA, CSC and GWRRA for the Rider and Co-Rider and the "off bike" education designed specifically for the Co-Rider, provide a very effective approach to motorcycle safety. This is when a REP participant truly begins to understand what the Level I commitment means and sees the value in the program.

Cost: $5.00 per participant – $2.00 yearly renewal (renew at your highest level)

Receive: "Red Triangle" patch for either Rider or Co-rider signifying Level II participant.

Level III: Safety by Preparedness

Level III of the REP is also referred to as Certified Tour Rider/Co-Rider. It represents the commitment of the Rider and/or Co-Rider to be prepared in the event of an accident to give aid and possibly save lives. This is done by being knowledgeable in First Aid or CPR and carrying a first aid kit on their motorcycle at all times.

It would be wonderful if we could achieve the coveted goal of zero accidents, however, we know realistically, accidents will happen. Because of this, it is important to be fully prepared to lend aid to unfortunate accident victims. It is important to always be prepared to save a life. Level III of the Rider Education Program was developed to deal with such circumstances by recognizing and encouraging proper First Aid or CPR training. CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation), has been used to save many lives. Being trained to render CPR or First Aid is a tremendous asset to those the REP participant will come in contact with daily.

Cost: $4.00 per participant – $2.00 yearly renewal (renew at your highest level)

Receive: "Certified Tour Rider" or "Certified Co-Rider" patch

Level IV: Safety By Enhanced Commitment and Preparedness

Level IV is the most prestigious of the REP levels and is referred to as Master Tour Rider/Co-Rider. It represents the highest commitment of the Rider and/or Co-Rider to safe riding and preparedness. This commitment is shown by a demonstrated history of safe miles and current certification in both First Aid and CPR.. These Master Tour Riders/Co-Riders are the finest example to everyone of the highest commitment to safe motorcycle operation and preparedness.

Level IV of the REP, the Master Tour Rider, was designed for those special caring individuals who desire to "be all they can be" with regards to motorcycle safety. The requirements are more stringent than Level III and require a greater commitment. These individuals are caring, trained and prepared with the experience to back them up. It is realized Level IV is not for everyone, but for those who desire to be of greater service to their fellow man, it is the correct prescription.

Why desire to be a Level IV Master Tour Rider? It's a worthy goal. Being prepared to save a life is a high calling indeed! These individuals are shining examples to the rest of the GWRRA membership. Others aspire to practice the same commitment as displayed by those who have attained Level IV. For that reason, because these individuals are ambassadors to the members at all levels, GWRRA provides a special gathering to celebrate the Master Tour Rider commitment each year at the District Rally, Region D Rally and Wing Ding.

Cost: $35.00 for each participant – $10.00 yearly renewal due on January 1st

Receive: "Special Triangular" patch with dark blue border and your individual Master number embroidered on it.

Note: all Level Program Patches are also available in "Black and Gold"

at a charge of $1.00 extra per level for levels I, II, and III.

Levels II, III and IV renewals are due January 1 each year.
If you are current at your present level, renewals after October 1 apply to the following year.

So there you have the program structure:

Level I Safety by Commitment

Level II Safety by Education

Level III Safety by Preparedness

Level IV Safety by Enhanced Commitment and Preparedness

The GWRRA is proud to present the Rider Education Program. We encourage you to think seriously about motorcycle safety and be a participant in the GWRRA Rider Education Program. You should also remember the old cliché, "an ounce of prevention IS worth a pound of cure." Always wear protective riding apparel!

To sign up or to receive more information, contact any Rider Education Officer