Motorcycle Training Roars to Life at TSTC

It's challenging. It's fun. It can save you money on insurance rates. Texas State Technical College's Corporate College at Marshall has been licensed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) to provide motorcycle operator training, beginning the weekend of August 18th in the parking lot of the North Building, 2400 East End Blvd., South. Students don't even need a helmet or a motorcycle. They have been provided for the college though support from TDPS and H&W Honda, a well-known family owned dealership in Marshall, Texas.

Dr. Jeanne Wesley, associate vice president, of the TSTC Corporate College stated, "Cliff Burdett of the Texas Department of Public Safety and Kyle Hughes of H&W Honda have been a tremendous help in developing our new program.

"With the high price of fuel, motorcycling has turned into a better alternative for transportation and recreation" said Hughes.

"With the experience gained from this course, you can make memories that last a lifetime, safely and enjoyably," he added.

TDPS has certified the college to offer both the basic and advanced Motorcycle Operator Training Courses. The TSTC Basic Motorcycle Operator Training Course teaches the mental and physical skills that new or inexperienced, riders need for safe and enjoyable street riding. The Advanced Motorcycle Operator Training Course is for the more experienced rider and teaches more advanced street survival skills.

In the two-day Basic Course, new riders learn the basic skills of operation, the advantages of protective equipment, street survival strategies, and most important, how to get out of dangerous situations that cannot be avoided. East Texans under 18, have to take the basic course to get a motorcycle driver's license. The Initial Basic course will be offered on the week-ends.

The advanced course is for experienced riders only. In the eight-hour Advanced Course, experienced and licensed riders learn about street survival strategies and traction control. They also perfect their skills in cornering, swerving, and braking. The advanced student learns high-speed maneuvering, quick swerving and avoidance techniques, counter-steering, traction control, and emergency braking for curves and slippery surfaces. The advanced course will be scheduled as needed.

"We are pleased to offer this program for the citizens of Harrison County. Texas has one of the largest motorcycle populations in the United States, but many riders do not know the Texas laws governing motorcycles and safety rules. We intend to serve the East Texas community by enhancing their fun and increasing their safety awareness.

"Plans are also underway to develop a motorcycle maintenance course," added Wesley

For information on the basic or advanced course please contact David Waite, Director of Industrial Training and Continuing Education, at 903-923-3436 or click here.