Basic Operator Training PDF Print E-mail

Many people assume that an officer is qualified for police motorcycle duty simply on the strength of prior experience operating civilian motorcycles.


Basic Operator 2007Not so! The high load factor of police motorcycles, along with the unusual distribution of the load, results in unique handling characteristics. This, plus the high speeds and/or maneuverability required of police motorcyclists, creates the need for higher-level skills than civilian riders are equipped to master without specialized training.

Focusing on ten practical exercises that stress low-speed maneuverability, evasion techniques, and high-speed braking skills, students of our program spend approximately 90% of the course "in the saddle." They will be given practical exercises and riding instruction supplemented with classroom instruction and demonstrations of tactical techniques. All of our instructors are Northwestern University certified, and our curriculum is approved by the University and Harley-Davidson.

This intensive 80-hour program will develop the coordination, skills and confidence necessary for the student to operate a police motorcycle safely and efficiently. Some of the topics covered include:
Addressing the needs of individual officers and their Departments.
  • Machine nomenclature
  • Slow speed maneuvering
  • Control
  • Braking
  • Curve Negotiation
  • Motorcycle maintenance
  • Defensive driving techniques
  • Law enforcement techniques
Throughout the program, the student rider will be continually evaluated. Upon successful completion of the course, students will have demonstrated their ability to use all the defensive riding techniques and manual skills they have learned, and will be fully prepared for on-the-job training within their agency.
 
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