In the minds of many, the lonely stretches of desert highway outside Flaming Gorge, and the winding mountain roads and picture-perfect settings Wyoming is famous for like Yellowstone and the Teton range, only equate to one thing: motorcycles. Hopping in the saddle bedecked like a leather ninja and spending a day alone or in a pack enjoying the unspoiled sites is just about the closest thing to heaven on earth for the two-wheeled aficionado.

Whether on a Harley or sporty speed rocket, the autonomy provided by motorcycle is second to none, but it also comes with exceptional responsibility.

First-time riders become wide-eyed quickly when they realize exactly how different a motorbike is from a regular vehicle. Crazy gears and body leans, handbrakes and heavy gear. The differences can be overwhelming, and nothing spells "hurt" more than a motorcycle crash.

Unfortunately, beginning riders crash at a rate that towers above a skilled rider. That is why it is extremely important to gather the road wisdom and saddle savvy necessary to maneuver a motorcycle at the highest levels of safety and with confidence.

Luckily, the Wyoming Department of Transportation's (WYDOT) Driver Services Program publishes a Motorcycle Operator Manual
that dissects these important skills. The manual is available online using the free Adobe Reader.

The book discusses general and motorcycle-specific rules of the road; proper gear selection; mechanical inspection and issues; emergency procedures; defensive-riding techniques; and the all-important crash avoidance.

Education

One thing is for certain: riding a motorcycle is an ever-evolving talent, requiring excellent perception and dexterity. Hence, WYDOT offers Novice Rider and Experienced Rider Safety Education courses.

The sessions are taught at various locations throughout the state and require an application to be submitted.

Courses are seasonal, running from April through mid-October, and cost around $25 for residents and $125 for non-residents.

For more information, contact WYDOT in Cheyenne at (888) 570-9904 (toll free) or (307) 777-4874 (local), or find the details outlined in our Motorcycle License section.

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