Last modified Thu., April 02, 2009 - 10:41 AM
Originally created Thursday, April 2, 2009

NAS Jax receives loaner motorcycles for courses

By MCSN Adam Thomas, Staff Writer

Cape Fox Professional Services (CFPS) Motorcycle Instructor Carl Bennett demonstrates safe operating procedures on one of four new Hyosung Comet loaner bikes available to active duty personnel interested in taking the Basic Rider Course at NAS Jax. (Photo by MCSN Adam Thomas)

So you've decided to buy a motorcycle. Before you part with your hard-earned money, keep in mind OPNAVINST 5100.12H CH-1 clearly states that all military personnel and Department of the Navy civilians are required to take a three-day Basic Rider Course (BRC) before receiving a motorcycle pass on any military installation.

How can you take the course before you buy? Cape Fox Professional Services (CFPS) will soon be providing loaner motorcycles to active duty military members interested in taking the BRC at NAS Jacksonville.

"We purchased these great bikes for the true novice rider who may be considering a motorcycle purchase," said CFPS Motorcycle Instructor Connie Policastro. "The idea is to train people before they make an uneducated decision to buy a bike that they may not be able to handle safely."

New Hyosung Comet loaner bikes stand ready to be used for training. The motorcycles will soon be available to active duty personnel interested in taking the Basic Riders Course provided by Cape Fox Professional Services. (Photo by MCSN Adam Thomas)

The new 250cc Hyosung Comets, manufactured in South Korea, are smaller with a lower stance which make the bikes much easer to handle. This also gives the rider the opportunity to become more comfortable and gain the confidence needed to make a better purchase decision. Motorcycles and safety gear (including helmets and gloves) are limited so persons interested in signing up are encouraged to bring their own personal protective equipment for better size and fit.

A total of 12 Comets were purchased for use in the tri-base area with four being placed into service at NAS Jax. The remainder will be divided between NSB Kings Bay, Ga. and NS Mayport.

"This is a great opportunity for our Sailors to give motorcycle riding a try before they go out and spend a large sum of money buying a bike they will not be comfortable on," said CFPS Lead Motorcycle Instructor Tim Jeror. "We want riders to be safe and learn their limits and these new bikes will go a long way towards helping to ensure our Sailors do just that."

Servicemembers attend a motorcycle safety course instructed by Connie Policastro March 19. The one-day course is offered monthly. For for a class schedule call NAS Jax Safety Office at 542-3082. (Photo by MCSA Cristina Gabaldon)

For more details on attending a BRC, talk to your command motorcycle coordinator or call 542-3082.