When it’s the middle of winter in Michigan, riding a motorcycle isn’t exactly top of mind. But if you’re an experienced motorcyclist, this is the right time to think about sharing your experience and improving your skills by becoming a certified RiderCoach through Schoolcraft College this spring.
“Becoming a certified RiderCoach is a great way to share your passion for motorcycling with prospective and experienced riders, get more involved in the motorcycling community and make some extra money,” said Sean McGlinn, Motorcycle Safety Coordinator for Schoolcraft College’s program, which is part of Continuing Education and Professional Development (CEPD).
The course is approximately 90 hours long. Course schedules vary, but students should plan on 7 to 11 days of intensive classroom and hands-on (range) activities. Applicants must have their own motorcycle and have been endorsed for at least one year. Cost is $75.
Candidates who successfully complete the course will become certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) RiderCoaches. Certification lasts for two years, and RiderCoaches apply for recertification by teaching a minimum of four classes, completing various professional-development courses, and submitting those records directly to the MSF.
In addition, the Detroit Metro Motorcycle Safety Consortium, which includes Schoolcraft College and four other community colleges, highly recommends that candidates complete a Basic RiderCourse (BRC) prior to the RiderCoach Preparation Course to familiarize themselves with the curriculum they will be teaching.
McGlinn completed his BRC at Schoolcraft in 2011 and has been with the College since January 2018.
“I have been riding motorcycles since childhood,” he said. “It all started when my dad took me to Pilgrim Motorsports of Plymouth, pointed to a blue dirt bike and a green dirt bike, and asked me which one I wanted. I chose the blue Yamaha PW80 and the rest is history.
“I am humbled and honored to work for the program that has benefitted countless prospective and experienced motorcyclists, including myself, in Metro Detroit and beyond.”
The motorcycle training classes have historically been some of the most popular at Schoolcraft College.
“Motorcycle sales were booming last year, presumably because of people exploring new socially distant hobbies,” McGlinn said. “While we are tremendously grateful for, and proud of, training around 900 students last year within the span of just a few short months, we weren’t able to accommodate everyone who inquired about our courses due to reduced course capacities.
“Typically, we train around 3,000 students every year. There will be a backlog of students who weren’t able to take a course last year. We currently have a shortage of active RiderCoaches in the Detroit Metro Consortium, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you are at all interested in the program.”
RiderCoach applications are currently being reviewed. To request a RiderCoach application, contact motorcycle@schoolcraft.edu or call 734-462-4448.