Motorcycle safety for KMC riders

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Scott Saldukas
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
As the days of sunlight are growing longer and motorcycle riders are prepping their bikes for the upcoming riding season, they should take into consideration what is expected of them to ride in Europe.

Safety of servicemembers on Ramstein is a major priority at all times, but for the "spring spike" of motorcycles here there is extra caution emphasized throughout the Department of Defense with the wear of personal protective equipment.

PPE consists of many parts. Below are a few tips for riders starting with helmets.
-Helmet wear --Riders must ensure that they have an Economic Commission for Europe 22.05 Helmet for riding.

- Proper eye protection - Goggles, wrap around glasses or a full-face shield designed to meet or exceed American National Standards. Institute Standard Z87.1 for impact and is shatter resistant. Host nation equivalents are acceptable if it meets or exceeds ANSI Standard Z87.1 for impact and is shatter resistance.

- Windshields- for motorcycles are not a replacement for proper eye protection.

- Required clothing- A long sleeved shirt or jacket, long trousers and full-fingered gloves. Gloves should be sturdy, non-slip and able to permit a firm grip on the controls. Motorcycle riders must wear brightly colored garments during the day and a reflective garment during the night. Upper garments have to be visible and not covered. Backpacks are authorized if they are brightly colored or reflective properties.

"The wear of a motorcycle jacket and pants constructed of abrasion resistant materials such as leather, Kevlar, or Cordura® containing impact absorbing padding isn't required but are strongly encouraged," said Sergeant Chromy, 86th Airlift Wing Ground Safety technician.

In company with protective clothing, riders must be noticeable to others while operating their vehicle and take into consideration the time of day they will be riding.

"Kaiserslautern military community riders should always have 360 degrees of visibility," said Sergeant Chromy.

- Footwear -Motorcycle enthusiasts are expected to wear over the ankle shoes or boots while riding.

"Durable athletic shoes that cover the ankles may be worn," the safety ground safety technician said. "Sandals, low quarter sneakers and similar footwear are not to be worn."

Although being prepared for the worst and wearing the correct equipment may help in the instance of an accident, vehicle safety is everyone's responsibility.

"Vehicle operators during this time of the year need to watch out for motorcyclist and bicyclist as they start to ride more in the nice weather," Sergeant Chromy said. "Drivers are cautioned to slow down and stay vigilant, especially at intersections."

Vehicle operators should also be aware of motorcyclists "Lane Splitting", driving through traffic between rows of cars.

"Drivers often take lane splitting personally and may even block a rider from proceeding but need to keep in mind that stationary motorcycles can overheat and when safety permits, they will cut between cars without hesitation," Sergeant Chromy said.

While vehicle operators should be aware of the influx in motorcycles, riders should be going through their T-CLOCS check list.

T-CLOCS, tires and wheels, controls, lights, oil, chassis, stands, is checking everything on the motorcycle to make sure everything works properly.

According to Major Sean Adcock, 86th AW chief of safety, items that should be checked are: the tires, wheels, levers and pedals, cables, hoses, throttle, battery, lenses, reflectors, wiring, headlamp, tail and brake lamp, turn signals, oil levels and leaks, the condition of the frame, suspension, chain or belt, all the fasteners, and the center and side stands.

"The rider can identify an issue with the motorcycle before going for a ride," said the chief of safety. "A simple problem with the motorcycle could be the difference between as safe ride or a major mishap."

Last year there were 248 reportable mishaps throughout the Air Force and 18 of them came from the U.S. Air Forces in Europe. Since the beginning of fiscal year 2010, the U.S. Air Force has already experienced 72 mishaps.

To prevent such occurrences, the Air Force and the Army both offer the motorcycle safety foundation course. The Air Force teaches a beginner's course and an experienced rider's course. These courses are held at Kapaun Air Station near vehicle registration and are scheduled to begin in April and will run through September.

Air Force sponsored courses are available to all Air Force military, civilians, and dependents. If you would like to sign up for a course contact your Unit Motorcycle Coordinator.