Frequently Asked Questions
What is 2 Wheel Safety Training?
2 Wheel Safety Training (TWST) is a motorcycle riding school, contracted and approved by the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) to provide basic rider and experienced rider motorcycle instruction. We operate training sites in Newark, Santa Clara and Gilroy, CA.
What does CMSP approval mean?
The instruction provided by a CMSP training site is monitored relative to program content, RiderCoach credentials and competence, and adherence to the policies and procedures set forth by the CMSP under the direction of the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Each site is subject to several reviews each year to ensure that we are meeting the requirements and goals of the program.
What are the benefits of taking a class from a CMSP site?
Upon successfully completion of the CMSP course you will receive a DMV licensing skills test waiver. If you are under 21 years of age and you want a California motorcycle license, you must successfully complete a CMSP basic rider training course.
What do you mean "successfully complete" the course?
There are both written and riding examinations to verify your comprehension of the material which is covered in the basic course. Both of these examinations must be passed.
What does it take to get a California motorcycle license after completing the course?
After successful completion of the basic rider course you will be issued a California DMV form DL389. With this form, after passing the DMV's written motorcyclist examination, you will qualify for an M1 motorcycle endorsement.
What do I need to take the basic course?
Before the start of the first classroom you must provide proof of:
- A valid driver's license –or–
- A valid learner's permit –or–
- A certificate showing successful completion of the classroom portion of driver's education.
If I’m under 18 years old, can I enroll in the course?
If you are between 16 and 18 years old you will need the signature of a parent or legal guardian in order to take the course. Your parent or legal guardian will need to come to class with you to sign a waiver in the presence of a CMSP RiderCoach, Site Administrator, or other person associated with the site.
Where do I get the motorcycle and helmet for the course?
TWST provides you with both the motorcycle and helmet for the class You may optionally use your own helmet if it is DOT approved and has a face shield or other eye protection.
Can I take the course on a scooter?
TWST has a limited number of scooters at each site.
What size are the motorcycles?
The motorcycles provided are usually from 125cc to 250 cc.
What else do I need?
For the riding portion of the course you must be wearing long pants, sturdy boots that cover the ankles, full-fingered gloves and a long sleeve shirt. Sunglasses come in handy on bright days, but they are not required.
Where are the classes taught?
In private, paved locations with no interfering traffic.
How long is the basic course?
The course consists of two classroom sessions and two riding sessions of approximately 5 hours each. The typical curriculum is:
- Classroom 1 & 2 (Usually combined)
- Range 1
- Range 2
When are the classes?
Each training site has it's own schedule. At TWST we usually have basic classes EVERY WEEKEND AND WEEKDAY.
What does it cost?
Rates vary from site to site. At TWST our rates for the basic course are $150 for under 21 and $250 for others.
There is a difference in price because the State of California requires that this course be taken in order for individuals under 21 to get their motorcycle license. Because of this, the State has elected to set the price at $150.
What are the course content and materials?
There are two courses, a basic course and an experienced rider course. Both courses were developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, and emphasize critical street skills and strategies for safe riding.
Will taking this course help with my insurance?
Most of the companies which provide motorcycle insurance offer discounts for completion to graduates of courses approved by the CMSP and the MSF.
Is the basic course for beginners or for people who already know how to ride?
Both. Although the course starts out with the basics, the skills which are taught are those essential to safe riding. It is unusual for someone to complete the course without indicating improvements in their motorcyclist skills and awareness.
After I finish this course, will I be ready to ride?
After successful completion of the course you will have been taught the basics of motorcycle riding. This is the starting place for new riders: you will need to continue practicing these skills to improve your chances of being a safe and confident motorcyclist.
What if I need or want additional instruction?
TWST offers Remedial Training on an hourly basis to individual who want more riding time after completing a Basic Rider Course (BRC)
What if I've already taken a basic rider course ... what else is there?
The Experienced Rider Course (ERC) is offered as a program for experienced riders on his/her their own motorcycle. The ERC cost is $150
How do I Register?
Select from the links below or in the Navigation list
Newark Pavilion - 6430 Thornton Ave. Newark, CA 94560 - REGISTER FOR NEWARK PAVILLION
Mission College - 3000 Mission College Blvd. Santa Clara, CA 95054 - REGISTER FOR MISSION COLLEGE
Gavilan College - 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd. Gilroy, CA 95020 - REGISTER FOR GAVILAN COLLEGE
When are the classes?
We offer the Basic Rider Course WEEKENDS and MIDWEEK 48 weeks a year.
CALL 1-866-FYI-TWST (394-8978)
Contact
2 Wheel Safety Training
3137 Diablo Avenue
Hayward, CA 94545-2701
866-FYI-TWST (394-8978)
twstmail@2wheelsafety.com