New North Carolina Law in effect Jan 1, 2011

[boomerang2120]

New state laws accompanying the start of 2011 include one seeking to improve safety among younger motorcyclists.

As of Jan. 1, anyone under 18 who applies for a motorcycle license in North Carolina is required to pass a safety class, including those seeking a motorcycle learner’s permit or a driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement.

The mandatory course must be taught by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation or the N.C. Motorcycle Safety Education Program.

A report from early December showed that 97 people had died in motorcycle accidents on state highways for the year so far.

While younger riders account for only a small portion of the deaths, officials hope to expand the training requirement if the program proves to be effective.

Another new law related to motorcycles will close a loophole that has allowed cyclists to ride legally without being required to pass a road test. Under previous guidelines, someone who passed a written test received a permit to ride that expired after 18 months, but could be renewed indefinitely. That allowed motorcyclists to avoid passing the road test required for a regular license.

As of Jan. 1, motorcycle learner’s permits are being issued for only 12 months, and just one renewal of six months will be allowed.

Full Story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40887206

[Cajunrider]

I think it's good that anyone who applies for a MC endorsement should be trained to ride and be able to pass a no nonsense riding test. No matter what the age. Just my opinion.

[Top Cat]

I agree with Mitch.

[AlabamaNomadRider]

I agree also and car drivers should be trained better than they are. To many riders and drivers get get behind the wheel or the handlebar and aren't prepared for the road.

[nomadtom69]

It had been 30 years since I had rode on the road (dirt bike riding don't count) I went and took a class at Smokey Mtn Harley (yes harley) It was a 3 day course it reminded me of stuff I had forgot. I am thinking of sending my wife to it also it gets a 10% discount on your Insurance and you do not have to spend the day at the DMV the instructors are qualified to pass you or fail you for the state.

[cactusjack]

Originally Posted by nomadtom69

It had been 30 years since I had rode on the road (dirt bike riding don't count) I went and took a class at Smokey Mtn Harley (yes harley) It was a 3 day course it reminded me of stuff I had forgot. I am thinking of sending my wife to it also it gets a 10% discount on your Insurance and you do not have to spend the day at the DMV the instructors are qualified to pass you or fail you for the state.

Do they teach you how to safely maneuver a motorcycle on and off a trailer?

Sorry, couldn't let that one go past.

[Cajunrider]

Originally Posted by cactusjack

Do they teach you how to safely maneuver a motorcycle on and off a trailer?Sorry, couldn't let that one go past.

Now that is wrong.....but funny.

[nomadtom69]

No they did not I must have missed that in the rain it rained all 3 days they taught the class on Buell motorcycles and every one of them needed the carb rebuilt

[nomadtom69]

I guess that comes with the purchase of a new Harley

[ringadingh]

Im all for having safer more educated riders out there as well, they should teach new riders about all the unexpected hazards that can come up.
Now on the other hand a lot of these mandatory courses that now exist are nothing but a cash grab. We have a safe boating course here in Ontario that is now mandatory, it came to be when jet skis became popular and started people started crashing them into docks and such. They designed a test that you can take online for $45.00 and print your licence when your finished the test. Everyone I know just does it with the book in front of them.

Originally Posted by Cajunrider

I think it's good that anyone who applies for a MC endorsement should be trained to ride and be able to pass a no nonsense riding test. No matter what the age. Just my opinion.

+ 1. MSF course should be required before you can ride a bike.

[flightdoc]

I aplaud NC for taking a big step forward in motorcycle safety!!
NH only gives a learners permit once over a lifetime and it's only good for thirty days. During that period you must wear a helmet, not ride at night and cannot carry a passenger. If you fail the riding test at the DMV, twice....then you have to come see ME and take the state safety course. A step in the right direction. I'll be glad when we mirror the NC reg of having to complete the safety course period.

vin

[blowndodge]

I'm glad I'm not the only one receiving the "Wrath of Scott" on these boards!!!

[lw]

Originally Posted by Boomerang

A report from early December showed that 97 people had died in motorcycle accidents on state highways for the year so far. As of Jan. 1, motorcycle learner’s permits are being issued for only 12 months, and just one renewal of six months will be allowed.

I wonder how that statistic compares to automobile accidents resulting in fatalities. Of course there are fewer motorcyclists and accidents involving them; but comparative analysis would be interesting from a "life is inherently dangerous, and you cant legislate it all away" standpoint.

[skipper]

Originally Posted by bankerfrank

+ 1. MSF course should be required before you can ride a bike.

I agree. When I went to get my MC endorsement, the lady asked me to make a figure eight in the parking lot. During my attempt, I had to stop twice because of cars entering and leaving. I told the lady that this was stupid and dangerous. She said OK, go ahead and park then meet me inside. I figured, that's it I failed, but she still passed me without completing the riding portion.

I still haven't taken a course but would like to. I have a friend that rides for the LA State Police. He also helps teach their course. and he put me through some of their maneuvers in a parking lot. I'm still working on the "Key Hole".