Cycle Rider Safety Training Program

IDOT/DTS initiated the Cycle Ricer Safety Training Program (CRSTP) in 1976 in an effort to reduce injuries and death by offering r training classes for motorcycle operators. This training program is one of only two in the nation that offers free motorcycle training to any Illinois resident 16 years of age or older who holds a valid automobile or motorcycle driver's license or permit. Illinois has over 400 instructors teaching over 2,100 courses at more than 60 training sites. IDOT/DTS administers the program through Illinois State University in Normal, Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Southern Illinois University in Carbondale and University of Illinois in Champaign. Motorcycle safety courses are offered to beginner, intermediate, experienced and trike riders. The course is designed to help riders manage their risk and increase their skills through riding and classroom instruction. The Intermediate Riders Course was pilot-tested by Southern Illinois University in 2008 and, due to its popularity, will now be offered statewide. The Intermediate Riders Course is designed for people who already know how to ride but may just want to brush up on their riding skills. The Intermediate Riders Course only takes 8.5 hours versus 20 hours for the beginner course.

Economic factors have contributed to more people opting for motorcycles or scooters as a less expensive mode of transportation. An increase in inexperienced riders creates new risks for those learning to ride. Research shows over 90 percent of the motorcycle riders involved in crashes were self-taught or learned from family or friends.

A motorcycle rider's judgment is critical. Many crashes could have been avoided if the motorcycle rider had known when and how to swerve or brake. Injuries can also be reduced by wearing proper protective gear. This includes sturdy footwear, straight-leg pants made of heavy material, reflective or brightly colored long sleeved shirt or jacket, a DOT approved helmet, eye protection and full fingered gloves.

IDOT/DTS is committed to reducing motorcycle fatalities and injuries by promoting motorist awareness, rider training and education as well as cooperation with the Illinois State Police for enforcement. Between May 1st and September 1st, the Division of Traffic Safety will continue to promote its “Don't Drink and Ride” campaign. This campaign is directed at the motorcyclists who choose to ride after they have been drinking.  

The month of May is designated Motorcycle Awareness Month. IDOT/DTS will again sponsor its annual Windshield Washing Project in which motorcycle clubs wash vehicle windshields at interstate rest areas across the state on weekends during the month of May. Participating club members also distribute “Share the Road” brochures and “Start Seeing Motorcycles” static clings.

IDOT/DTS continues to purchase 10 and 20 foot bright yellow banners that read, “Start Seeing Motorcycles.” These banners are being distributed to law enforcement agencies and motorcycle clubs for placement in strategic areas throughout the state to raise motorist awareness of the presence of motorcycles.

The Illinois State Police Motorcycle Enforcement Bureau will also bring attention to Motorcycle Awareness Month by engaging in intensive motorcycle enforcement activities on interstates throughout the state. Officers will be enforcing speed limits and proper license endorsements in an effort to reduce fatalities and make other drivers more aware of motorcyclists.