About Dr. Jim's Question of the Day

Hello, I’m Dr. Jim Heideman, and I have a question for you. Can you tell me what the most common type of motorcycle crash involving another vehicle is? Here’s another one: What parts of your motorcycle should you check before every ride? And here’s one more: When trying to stop while turning, what should you do first?

If you aren’t sure of an answer, then you should ask yourself: “How much do I really know about motorcycling?” And, more importantly, “How can I learn more?” You can start increasing your riding knowledge by answering my question of the day.

Every day, I will ask you a question like those above. From the choices provided, you can choose the best answer, and find out immediately whether or not you were right. Whether you want to just learn more or prepare to get your motorcycle license endorsement, my question of the day is intended to challenge you to think critically about staying safe on your motorcycle, to make you think about what you might need to ride better, and to inform you about resources, such as MSF’s Basic RiderCourse, to help you gain that knowledge.

In-depth answers to my daily questions can be found in MSF’s Operator’s Manual, or MOM. MOM covers all the basics of riding, from pre-ride inspection checklists and what eye protection is best, to crash avoidance and group riding techniques. Just as you listen to your mother for advice, good riders do what their MOM tells them.

The MSF’s goal is to help you become a better rider by being a lifelong learner, no matter what your experience level, and to get you properly trained and licensed. Our web site, msf-usa.org, will give you great information about the foundation, practical exercises, videos that show what our RiderCourses look like, the various training opportunities and how to sign up for a class that’s right for you. Whether you’ve been riding for four hours or 40 years, there is always something to learn or a skill to improve. Because the more you know about riding safely, the more great rides you’ll enjoy.

I hope you test yourself with my question of the day, and study to learn the correct answer if you don’t already know it. Riding a motorcycle has always been a joyful experience for me, and when you ride well, you can increase your own enjoyment for many years to come.

Ride safe,