Rodeo gets motorcyclists ready for summer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Michael Battles
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- --  To fulfill annual training requirements, approximately 200 motorcycle riders from Team Aviano participated in the 2013 Motorcycle Rodeo, April 25 at Aviano Air Base, Italy.

The day-long training provided riders with annual and pre-season safety briefings, as well as offered new riders and riders with expired training a chance to complete the mandatory United States Air Forces in Europe 3-year refresher course.

"The training is important because it reminds riders to be aware of the hazards of operating a motorcycle," said Tech. Sgt. Adrian Hall, 31st Fighter Wing Safety Office ground safety NCO in charge. "After having bikes sit in storage during the winter months, this is the first opportunity for the riders to get out and enjoy the freedom of riding."

The training discussed topics such as local road and weather conditions, proper riding, safety and traffic safety.

Along with training, riders participated in safety games such as "drunk goggles," which allowed riders to experience the effects of alcohol on their ability to ride a bicycle. The game demonstrated how alcohol impairs motorcyclist's judgment, reaction time and perception.

During the event, riders were also given a chance to enter their motorcycles in a bike show for on-lookers to view, evaluate and judge based on look, sound and mechanics.

As part of the rodeo, mentors were on hand to provide knowledge of the local area to new and experienced riders just arriving to Italy. To conclude the event, riders completed a 20-mile group ride, which allowed them to gain riding experience, as well as learn the local road layout and conditions.

"The rodeo allows for us to rehash the guidelines that have been put in place for us to follow; any new, or changed guidance is able to be distributed to all riders," said Tech. Sgt. Anthony Barrett, Green Knights motorcycle club president. "The event is a chance to build camaraderie amongst the riders and, in the end, some riders were able to get out and hit the open roads together."

Barrett recommends riders take advantage of the travel opportunities, but cautions riders to be safe. Last year the Air Force reported more than 200 motorcycle mishaps.

"Get out and get involved with the local clubs and all the great events taking place all over Europe," he said. "Most importantly, be sure that you keep in mind all the training you have been through and the skills you have learned, don't push yourself beyond your skill set trying to be the 'hot shot' on the road."

For more information on Aviano' s motorcycle clubs, contact Tech. Sgt. Anthony Barrett at anthony.barrett.1@us.af.mil, for the Green Knights, Master Sgt. Sean Wells at sean.wells.1@us.af.mil and for the Rough Riders or Master Sgt. James Williams at james.williams.68@us.af.mil.