WESTERVILLE, Ohio — After day one in the classroom for motorcycle enthusiast and Columbus native Britton Stultz, his goal after completing a 16-hour course is to be the best and safest motorcyclist he can be.
“It’s exciting because it’s something I want to do. I know it’s going to be fun and exhilarating,” said Stultz.
“Most people they kind of grow up doing it or they never do it. So for me, I kind of want to break that mold and just learn the right way,” says Stultz
Stultz is one of a dozen in this Motorcycle Ohio class, which is offered by the Ohio Department of Public Safety.
Overall through November, there are 59 training sites across the state—and an all-time high, in registration, more than 12,000 students.
After four hours of classroom time, 12 hours of on-cycle training follows, covering topics such as cornering, braking, swerving, and traffic interaction.
“A lot of people have a sense of freedom which is great, but I always feel prepared,” said instructor Todd Smith.
Smith, an instructor for 15 years, said there are a lot of things one must do to be a successful rider.
“Make it a normal part of your process. You got to pay attention. You gotta scan, you gotta identify. People pay a lot less attention to everything else that’s going on now,” said Smith.
Ohio’s Department of Public Safety said education and public awareness are keys to making roadways safer for everyone.
Since 2017, there have been 1,074 fatal crashes involving motorcycles in Ohio. In 56% of those crashes, the rider was at fault. And an unendorsed rider was involved in 45% of those crashes.
“Right now, just starting small and getting comfortable at this point,” said Stultz.
Stultz knows the risks and hopes when he earns his motorcycle license this spring, he’ll be able to purchase a bike.
And not only explore Ohio, but the country as well.
“I love road trips and I think being on the road on a motorcycle is probably one of the best feelings in the world. So I look forward to it,” said Stultz.
The Motorcycle Ohio classes are $50 per course. Students must have a validated motorcycle temporary permit before riding.
