WMSP THE REF Defined

What's all the excitement around Wisconsin's new mobile classroom? Wisconsin Department of Transportation & Bureau of Transportation Safety through a Federal Grant is promoting motorcycling safety programs in such a way it reaches ALL riders. THE REF (Transportable High-End Rider Education Facility) will provide an interactive approach to motorcycle safety. The classroom's mobility is key to delivering the product. By being mobile, THE REF will deliver motorcycle safety education to locations where riders, passengers and the public gather.

Nearly 80% of all motorcycle riders never have and never will take a rider education class. Sometimes even the simplest tip or survival technique can make the difference in living or dying. Since riders won't come to us, THE REF will go to them....to where they gather. Through a compelling display, riders will experience a non-intrusive and insightful way to learn to be both a better and safer rider. Along the way, somewhere, someday, one of them will survive, who otherwise would not have.

"Similar to other states, Wisconsin motorcycle deaths typically represent 14% of all traffic fatalities, yet account for but 6.8% of all vehicle registrations. This disparity is accomplished over a shortened riding season of less than 9 months. Here in 2009, we continue to record record-low traffic fatalities, with motorcycles currently representing more than 17% of all traffic deaths. Wisconsin ridership continues to climb rapidly, with a 61% increase in registration in just the past 5 years alone. Motorcycling is inherently dangerous, where over 90% of those involved in a traffic crash will suffer some degree of injury."-Major Daniel Lonsdorf, Director, Bureau of Transportation Safety Wisconsin.

What's on board THE REF? Interactive programming starts with 2 Honda SMARTrainers (Safe Motorcyclist Awareness & Recognition Trainer). A RiderCoach will facilitate students through the use of the SMARTrainers as well as a printout of how well the rider did. Another interactive program includes the use of several large screen LED monitors that will be used by RiderCoaches to show training videos as well as other presentations. In the rear of THE REF is a garage that houses 3 training motorcycles which will be used with MSF's newly created IME (Introductory Motorcycle Experience) Training. THE REF also will work with up to 4 seasoned riders with the help of 2 Law Enforcement Motor Officers as they conduct a street-riding experience.

It is an exciting time for the State of Wisconsin as we ZERO in on Zero fatalities in Wisconsin. If you request additional information on THE REF or would like to schedule THE REF at your event, please contact Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program THE REF Coordinator, Phil Neidner at phil.neidner@dot.wi.gov

Where to see THE REF: Suburban Harley-Davidson during The Milwaukee Rally, September 2-5, BMW Rally (Chula Vista/Wisconsin Dells) September 10-12, Tomahawk Fall Color Rally September 16-19, Ride the Ribbon Breast Cancer Ride in Oconomowoc September 25 & 26.

Remember 5=Zero; Ride Unimpaired of drugs & Alcohol, Wear All the Gear All the Time, Get Trained & Licensed, Ride Within Your Ability and Always Maintain Your Motorcycle. Keep in mind these 5 objectives will lead to Zero fatalities in Wisconsin, a vision we can all live with!