As summer weather approaches, more motorcyclists will cruise down the streets. Hoping to keep motorcyclists safe, the Lubbock Police Department organized its first Civilian Motorcycle Academy. They organized the class to give riders the opportunity to improve their riding skills.

“Our motorcycle officers are some of the best trained motorcycle riders we could find, so we wanted to share that with some of our community members,” said Tiffany Taylor, public information officer for Lubbock Police Department.

The course will cover motorcycle skills such as breaking, maneuverability and how to maintain control of the bike, Taylor said. 

“They will have several exercises set up that the rider will actually go through. They will get one-on-one attention from our motorcycle officers,” Taylor said.

Since the beginning of the year, there have been 23 crashes involving motorcycles. One motorcycle accident involved a death, when police said a motorcycle hit a pedestrian, according to Taylor.

Motorcyclists from biker safety awareness organizations Look Twice, Save a Life and Biker Down said the program is a great opportunity for riders.

“Anything that comes along that makes it safer for all of us, that’s an amazing opportunity,” said Jennifer Tijerina, a member of both organizations.

James Wright, president of Look Twice, Save A Life, encouraged any biker to apply, even if they believe they are seasoned riders.

“We still have our times where we come into mishaps with vehicles … The new safety course would benefit quite a bit,” he said.

For complete information on the course, see the news release below.

The following is a news release from the Lubbock Police Department: 

The Lubbock Police Department Motorcycle Unit is now accepting applications for the first Civilian Motorcycle Academy to be held Saturday, June 2nd.

This free, one-day school will be instructed by LPD Motorcycle Officers, some of the best trained and safest riders in west Texas. The advanced safety course will guide riders through several exercises aimed at enhancing rider safety techniques such as braking, maneuverability, and controlling the bike.

Fifteen applicants will be chosen for the first academy and must meet the following requirements:

  •  Own a motorcycle
  •  Have a Class M license
  •  Previously passed a basic motorcycle safety course
  •  Have no pending criminal charges or convictions of a Class B or higher offense
  •  Must bring their own gear including a helmet and riding boots

Applications will be accepted from May 9th to May 18th. To apply, please email your name and telephone number to LPDMotors@mylubbock.us . Applicants are subject to a background check and will be contacted by the LPD Motors Unit for additional information.

Riders wanting to improve their riding skills and safety on the roads are encouraged to apply for the LPD Civilian Motorcycle Academy.

DATE: Saturday, June 2, 2018
TIME: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
LOCATION: Lubbock Police Academy at 508 Davis Drive, Lubbock, TX