An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

BRC offers new training bikes for course

5 Jun 2009 | Pfc. Kel Clark Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort

Before Wednesday, the Air Station’s Basic Rider Course only allowed Marines, sailors and civilians who have their own motorcycles to participate in the class, but now, that has changed. The Basic Rider Course is now offering 10 training motorcycles for anyone interested in learning to ride for free.

“These bikes were purchased for Marines and sailors a part of a contract set-up between the Air Station and Cape Fox Professional Services,” said Joseph Alderman, the lead instructor for BRC. “The bikes and the classes will be available to all military dependants, civilians and retirees, but active duty service members will have top priority.”

The course is designed for individuals with little or no riding experience.  The course is split between classroom instruction and riding instruction. The course must be completed by all active duty servicemembers who own motorcycles, according to Marine Corps Order 5100.19e.

Alderman said as soon as the bikes have more than 50 miles on them, they will be available for use. The bikes will only be used for BRC and not for the experienced riders’ course and the other classes offered.

 Training is offered and sponsored by the Air Station and Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island safety offices.

“The first day of the course is conducted mostly in the classroom and goes regardless of the weather,” said Mark Hicks, a BRC instructor. “The second and third day has the majority of the riding portion of the course. Everyone should come with an open mind and a willing attitude.”

The classes are for all who want to own a motorcycle, Alderman said. If they take the class and feel riding isn’t for them, they don’t have to have a bike they paid for and don’t want anymore.

“These classes are a two-fold benefit for the students. We provide the standardization for riders by giving them the knowledge and the gear so they will be ready when they do begin riding,” Alderman continued.

For more information about BRC or ERC, contact Hicks or Alderman at 228-7892.