A previous blog discussed and summarized the courses available through the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program for new and returning riders. The program also offers a curriculum that improves the riding skills of advanced riders. The course takes nine-hours over one day and includes both classroom and on-cycle instruction based on current research in rider safety using the latest training methods and most highly-skilled instructors. The courses in the program provide free training at multiple training sites in Pennsylvania to all residents and active duty military personnel.
However, The Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic (Total Control ARC), as it’s known, is not available to all Pennsylvania drivers or motorcyclists as eligible persons must possess extensive riding experience. Participants must have a class Motorcycle Learner’s permit or motorcycle license.
Total Control ARC is used extensively by government agencies and the military to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities. With a comprehensive emphasis on physical, mental and mechanical training, the Total Control ARC uses a holistic approach while both teaching advanced riding techniques and providing extensive psychological and suspension setup instruction.
As mentioned, not every motorcycle rider in Pennsylvania is eligible to participate in the Total Control ARC program. The requirement that many riders will fail to meet is the prerequisite 3,000 miles of street riding experience.
Participants must provide their own street-legal motorcycle with valid proof of insurance and registration. Any course participant must have full protective riding gear including:
The motorcycle used in the program must be maintained properly and will be inspected by an instructor prior to the beginning of the first course. Your bike should be able to perform satisfactorily in hot weather and not overheat while stopped with the motor running. Brakes must be in good working order. Any motorcycle that fails to meet minimum safety requirements will not be allowed to proceed further in the course.
The air pressure of tires is checked before the course starts. Tires must have at least 3mm of tread. No race, race compound tires, or car tires are permitted to be used on any bike used by a course participant, even if such tires are approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
The amount of coolant (for liquid-cooled motorcycles) and oil must be checked before class to ensure that they are at proper levels. The bike’s charging system must function properly and because the bike will be started frequently during class, a new battery is highly recommended.
If you are an experienced rider and wish to learn something new in a controlled, safe environment, the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program, specifically, its Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic, offers state-of-the-art training in rider education. Riders who successfully complete the program’s courses may qualify to insurance premium discounts through participating insurance carriers, as well as enhance their riding experience.
If you or a loved one has suffered any type of injury resulting from any type of accident, including a motorcycle accident, contact Powell Law at (570) 961-0777 or visit us online. The attorneys and staff of Powell Law carry on the work of a law firm that spans generations and has represented thousands of Pennsylvanians over a period of 113 years. The consultation is free and you don’t pay any fees unless we win your case! Call today.
