Contributed COURSE PLANNED — Discussing plans for motorcycle training at Belmont College were, from left, Scott Richards, the college’s CDL training manager and Motorcycle Ohio site coordinator; Michele Piko, Motorcycle Ohio state program coordinator; and Heather Davis, the college’s vice president of operations.

ST. CLAIRSVILLE — A motorcycle training site has been added to the campus of Belmont College, the school has announced.

This expansion brings high-quality motorcycle safety education to Belmont County, offering residents convenient access to essential training that saves lives and reduces crashes.

Motorcycle Ohio’s basic rider skills courses will be available at Belmont College, giving new and experienced riders the opportunity to sharpen their skills, improve their safety awareness and gain the confidence needed to navigate Ohio’s roadways safely.

Officials with the college said details of the course include:

• Cost: $75 per student;

• Class size: Limited to 12 students per session for optimal instruction;

• Schedule: Classes will run on Saturdays and Sundays, twice a month to start;

• Requires a valid M1 2-wheel temporary instruction permit identification card or M endorsement at the start of the class

• Length: The 16-hour course includes four hours classroom work and 12 hours of riding;

• No experience is required, but riders should be capable of balancing and riding a bicycle;

• Students are required to provide their own proper protective riding gear;

• Successful completion earns a 60-day BMV skill test waiver for a motorcycle endorsement; and

• Motorcycles are provided during the course.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Motorcycle Ohio to Belmont College,” said Heather Davis, the school’s vice president of operations. “This partnership allows us to offer valuable, life-saving education to motorcyclists in our community and support public safety efforts in Belmont County and beyond.”

Belmont College and Motorcycle Ohio encourage all riders — whether new to the road or returning after time away — to take part in certified training. Education and awareness can reduce motorcycle-related crashes and fatalities, officials explained.

“With motorcycle safety being a growing concern across Ohio, Belmont College is committed to playing a role in reducing crashes and fatalities by making training more accessible to local residents,” said Scott Richards, the school’s CDL training manager and Motorcycle Ohio site coordinator.

For information or to register for a course, visit belmontcollege.edu or contact (740) 699-3850.