Motorcycle training fails to keep pace

CLEVELAND (AP) -- The number of motorcycles on Ohio's roads -- and the number of accidents they're involved in -- continues to rise steadily, but the state program designed to train riders isn't able to expand at the same rate.
The state had about 62,000 more motorcycles registered in 2003 than it did in 1999, according to Department of Public Safety figures. During the same period, the number of accidents went up by nearly 400, and 18 more people died in motorcycle crashes.
Bob Secrest, coordinator of the Motorcycle Ohio program, said training sessions at the state's 15 permanent sites and one mobile classroom are frequently full. The program gets $6 from each annual motorcycle registration to help cover its costs.
The state provided 16-hour safety classes for 9,517 riders last year. Adults pay $25 for the program, while juveniles get it for free.
"We're teaching more and more people every year, but it's still not enough," Secrest said.
Ron Shepard, chairman of the National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators, said more baby boomers have the disposable income to buy bikes. Many may have limited experience, meaning training is important.
"People go out and buy themselves a $20,000 bike and think 'How tough can it be?'" Shepard said. "They find out they can't make it around the first corner."