BERN TWP., Pa. – The warmer weather is bringing motorcycle riders back after minimal time on the road during the colder months.
Officials are encouraging people to brush up on their riding skills before taking their bikes for a spin.
Local motorcycle riding instructors said taking a course before the warm spring months can never hurt.
For those who decide not to take a course, they have some other helpful safety tips.
"This time of year, there's always some nerves, especially when the weather starts break and get warmer," said Kyle MacBain, Learn To Ride liaison.
With a hope to put an end to those nerves, Classic Harley-Davidson in Bern Township is holding Learn To Ride courses.
"There are people that just think, 'I'm ready to go,' and hop right back on the bike, but it never hurts to get back to basics and learn what your motorcycle can do," said MacBain.
MacBain said it all comes down to asking yourself one question before hitting the road.
"Are you prepared? Never hurts just to get reacquainted with your motorcycle," he said.
The company holds the courses almost every day through a third-party provider.
"With the riders course, it teaches you everything from where the clutch is, to how to handle slipping of the tires and braking in quarters," said MacBain. "It's about the slow turns. It's about learning how to control the motorcycle itself. It's all about the basics."
Classic Harley-Davidson General Manager Kevin Kodz has been practicing all that and more — for 30 years.
"My father wouldn't let me get on a street bike without taking the safety program first," said Kodz. "It's an absolute must. It's the easiest way to learn to ride. That's how my kids learned to ride. "
Instructors say basic courses are a great way to refresh and ease back into street riding after the cold winter months.
Whether a motorcyclist opts to take a course or two, professionals advise everyone to make sure they have the correct riding gear.
"While most people love the freedom, obviously, of riding without a helmet, you can't put a price on your own safety," Kodz said. "So a good safe helmet, long sleeve shirt or jacket, a good pair of gloves, sturdy pants and boots."
Instructors said there is no age limit to sign up for a course.
For those who decide not to sign up, officials advise to practice in a closed parking lot before driving on a main road.
