Photo Information

Dylan R. Code (right), an instructor and program operator with the California Superbike School, corrects Howard Protrovsky, a civilian worker with the Marine Corps Combat Service Support School, on proper techniques of motorcycle steering here Sept. 8. The two-day Advanced Motorcycle Operator School course focused on different skills related to steering, braking, traction and increasing

Photo by Pfc. Casey Jones

Motorcyclists learn from Superbike school

20 Sep 2007 | Pfc. Casey Jones 2nd Marine Division

The Los Angeles-based California Superbike School held a special two-day course here Sept. 8 for motorcyclists seeking to improve their skills operating a motorcycle.

The Advanced Motorcycle Operator School course, sponsored by the II Marine Expeditionary Force Safety Office, provided instructions for steering, braking, traction and increasing riders’ bike proficiency.

The course promotes continued education for motorcycle operation and heavily emphasizes correct techniques.

“We show them the actual technical points along with the technology of riding a bike, which brings their awareness level up to show them what they’re doing has consequences,” said Keith Code, the founder of California Superbike School. “If they can get it right, they can be in control. If they get it wrong, they’ll be out of control.”

The class seeks to replace any bad habits the motorcyclists have with proficiency.

“People think they pick up bad habits, but once they learn the core technical skills they’re able to push the bad habits out and replace them with real skill,” Code said.

The course also emphasizes wearing proper safety equipment.

“Safety equipment is super important first of all,” Code said. “The laws regarding motorcycle (equipment) wear on Marine bases are perfect; safety is a must.”

The course also reinforces riders’ strong points by having them work on more than a dozen different skills, tailoring the training to shore up individuals’ weak spots.

“We take everyone based on skill level, and then we improve them on every skill,” said Cobie Fair, a course instructor.

A Marine’s ability to obey laws and follow orders makes coaching easier for the instructors.

“Marines are really enthusiastic, go-getters, passionate and enjoy riding,” Fair said. “They’re always great students.”

Marines of all ages and levels of experience attended the course and rode away with extra valuable knowledge.

“The thing about this class is it’s just continued training, every mile you ride a motorcycle you learn something new,” said Staff Sgt. Wayne Reeves, a supply chief with Marine Aircraft Group 31, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., and a 20-year bike rider. “You never stop learning as a rider, whether you’ve been riding a bike for two days or 20 years.”