Essex County HOG/LOH is organizing a ladies-only group to take the MSF Basic RiderCourse at Fairleigh Dickinson University one weekend in June. (Exact dates to be determined.) Learn to ride in a supportive, relaxed atmosphere without pressure.

It’ll be a very fun weekend, and even if you decide that riding your own bike is not for you, taking the Basic RiderCourse can help you become better passenger and increase your awareness and knowledge about motorcycling.

FDU has a great motorcycle program with very nice, patient Rider Coaches. The BasicRiderCourse runs for 2.5 days. There’s a Friday night session in the classroom, and then it’s all day Saturday and Sunday on the range. They provide the bikes, which are very small (150cc), easy-to-handle motorcycles. They also provide helmets.

You need to bring:

• Over the ankle footwear.
• DOT approved eye protection.
• Long sleeve jacket or shirt.
• Long pants of durable material.
• Full-fingered gloves.
• Lunch, snacks and beverages.

The only other requirement is the basic ability to ride a bicycle.

Successful completion qualifies you to receive a waiver for the NJ Road Test, and insurance premium discounts with some motorcycle insurers (that is, if you decide to buy your own motorcycle!)

If you want to join in, contact me melabreu@optonline.net before April 1, 2005 so I can put you on the list and give you the details on our group discount and possible dates.

We plan on posting pictures and stories about the whole experience on the Web site so check back soon.

For more information on FDU Motorcycle Education visit http://view.fdu.edu/default.aspx?id=93.

Visit the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/cit_permits/d_pat_motorcycle.html for information on obtaining a permit.

You can download the Motorcycle Manual here (PDF): http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/motorcycle/mcm996.pdf