Gas-guzzling SUVs are seemingly becoming more difficult to spot around campus, while parking spots for motorcycles and scooters appear to be filling up quickly. As students search for solutions to save money on gas, many are turning to a two-wheeled variety of transportation. But students might be putting themselves in danger.
Last year was the deadliest since 1987 for motorcycle-related fatalities. This year, however, the State Highway Patrol reports that the numbers are down, despite an increase of bikes on the road as some drivers make the switch from cars to motorcycles because of the economy.
One reason motorcyclists might be staying safer is the popularity of motorcycle training classes, such as the Riders Edge Program offered by A.D. Farrow Harley-Davidson.
Charissa Fee coordinates the program and said enrollment is skyrocketing.
"We've seen more folks interested in riding than ever before," Fee said. "Whether they're going to work or just getting around town. We're already booking classes for September now."
The classes run Thursday through Monday every week from March to October. They take place on a six-acre slab of pavement, where riders are schooled in everything from starting the bike to avoiding hazards on the roadway.
Fee said there is one age group that is flocking to the program.
"We see a lot of students," Fee said. "Younger people make up a big portion of the classes."
Fee said children as young as 15 and adults in their 70s have taken the class.
Jamie Burchett, 20, has been biking for four years and took part in a similar program offered throughout the state of Ohio.
"It really makes you a better rider and a better driver all the way around," Burchett said. "I think it should be required if you're going to ride."
Riders Edge costs less than $300, but participants are able to receive their motorcycle endorsement for free upon successful completion.
There are other cost-saving benefits, too.
"A lot of riders will see their insurance go down," Fee said. "It's a great discount, and really shows how much value the class has when it comes to safety."
Fee recommends the program to riders of all experience levels.
"We have people who have never touched a bike and people who have been riding for more than 30 years," Fee said. "It's a lot safer way to learn than just picking up a bike out on a dirt road with your brother."
And there is one other thing.
"When you get down to it, it's just a lot of fun," Fee said.
Lauren D. Schmoll can be reached at schmoll.4@osu.edu.
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