Warren YWCA program launches minibike training

By JORDAN COHEN

news@vindy.com

WARREN

On the grounds of Christ Episcopal Church, 10 new red and white minibikes lined up in formation awaiting their first riders Saturday — not children but adults who will train young people how to safely ride the lower-speed motorcycles.

The program, National Youth Project Using Minibikes sponsored by the Warren YWCA, is designed for people age 10 to 16. The minibikes were donated by the American Honda Corp., which is the national sponsor. The YWCA raised $20,000 to fund the local effort, according to Shari Harrell, executive director.

“We received a number of contributions from the church, local businesses and the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley,” Harrell said, adding there is no charge to the young people who undergo the training. The funding also will cover the costs of their helmets, gloves and goggles.

However, it was the adult volunteers who were put through the paces Saturday, with a 12-hour training session on motorcycle safety. They will undergo eight more hours today. One of those volunteers is Linda Reigelman, a Warren school principal.

“I’ve never ridden before except on the back of motorcycles, so I’m a little nervous,” Reigelman said, “but our kids our definitely worth it.”

Jennifer Wagner, NYPUM program director, said she and Toni Blake, YW Teen Program manager, underwent nine days of training in Atlanta earlier this year before they could launch the local effort. Wagner said the young people will find that they, too, will experience extensive training before they can complete the program.

“They will have five hours of classroom curriculum and at least 12 hours of riding instruction before we’ll give them a certificate of completion,” Wagner said. “They will also have to earn the privilege of riding by helping out in the community.”

The minibikes are capable of speeds up to 40 miles per hour, but Wagner said that the trainees will not be permitted to go beyond second gear, limiting their speed to 25 mph. Most of the training will be conducted at Perkins Park.

Ray Gollan, owner of a Honda Suzuki cycle dealership in Warren, said his company will service the minibikes with Gollan donating half the maintenance costs and Honda paying the balance. Honda will replace the minibikes in four years with new ones.

Wagner hopes to expand the program through an eventual partnership with Warren schools. She emphasized NYPUM hopes to attract a number of children considered at-risk who can be taught self-esteem and a sense of responsibility by taking the training.

So far, eight young people have signed up to take the course. Their first riding experience is scheduled for July 23 at Perkins Park.