The Basic Rider 2-wheel course (RVH 130) is offered for one credit. The course provides classroom and actual motorcycle operator training in a controlled environment. This course is not eligible for financial aid and CANNOT be audited. Participants under 18 years of age should contact the DMV for information on obtaining a motorcycle learner’s permit and operator’s license.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation certifies our Instructors/Rider Coaches. A valid automobile license or learner’s permit is required to participate in these courses. No previous riding experience is necessary for the Basic Rider Courses; however, a good sense of balance is required.
Trainer motorcycles are provided for the basic rider 2- wheel course. Bikes may include, but are not limited to: Suzuki TU25OXL9, Kawasaki Z125PRO, BMWG310R, Yamaha TW200, Yamaha VStar250, & Yamaha XT250.
Students are assigned motorcycles for the best fit possible for riding safety. There is a knowledge and a riding skills test at the end of the course. Passing these two tests earns the student a Completion Card and a Virginia licensing waiver, subject to VA DMV license requirements. The instructor has the final authority in determining if a student shall be permitted to participate in the riding portion of the course.
Students will learn:
- The basics: what to wear, how to start and stop your motorcycle, and motorcycle controls Street strategies to avoid trouble and stay safe
- How to maneuver a motorcycle in tough situations; swerving, avoiding collisions, special situations, lane changes, passing, and avoiding hazards
- Basic motorcycle operation
- Straight-line riding, turning, shifting and stopping Cornering, braking and swerving
For the riding portion of the course…
The Basic Rider Course (BRC) is a complete entry-level, learn to ride class. This class consists of online classroom instruction as well as in-person motorcycle operation and instruction. Upon successful completion of the course, students are provided a Virginia license waiver to be taken to the DMV for endorsement purposes. This program is physically demanding, and students should be in good physical condition and have a good sense of balance.
Students must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit, sturdy shoes high enough to cover the ankle, full fingered gloves, long pants without holes in the legs, and eye protection. Motorcycles (none larger than 500 cc) are provided for this program. Students must provide their own helmet. Students under 18 years of age must have parent signature on waiver forms.
This course is not eligible for financial aid and CANNOT be audited.
Class Cost & Times
Cost
VA Resident: $184.89
Out-of-State: $401.99
Rates are as of Fall 2025 and subject to change.
Class Meetings
Classroom Portion: ONLINE (a class link will be sent to student)
Students must complete, on their own, an online portion to participate in the program and will be emailed a link approximately two weeks before class. Once complete, you are required to bring the completion certificate to the instructor the first day of class. If you do not have the certificate, you will be dropped from the program and ineligible for a refund.
Riding Portion: Saturday & Sunday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Students will meet Saturday morning in room M245 of the Business Science Building, 2nd floor.
Students MUST be on time for both class meetings. NO ADMITTANCE for late arrivals. Late arrivals will be dismissed without a refund.
Attendance and Tuition Policy
Students who register for the class but do not attend, will be charged for the course, unless they withdraw PRIOR to the class dates. Students may call the division office at 540-857-7272 or email the enrollment Center at enroll@virginiawestern.edu for assistance with dropping the class.
Students dropping the course PRIOR to the first class will receive a refund and not be charged.
Students who are removed from the course for safety issues, will not receive a refund. Instructors have final say on whether a student is removed from the course due to safety or other issues.
Any classes cancelled for weather or other factors, will be rescheduled as soon as possible. Students who cannot attend the rescheduled dates, will be placed in another section of the course if available or refunded.
Class Dates
Multiple sections of the Basic Rider 2-wheel (RVH 130) course are scheduled each semester. You can view what’s available each semester by accessing the online Class Schedule. Select Recreation and Motorcyle Safety as the subject.
Traditionally, semester classes are scheduled as follows:
- Spring sections meet between mid-March through early May
- Summer sections meet mid-May through July
- Fall sections meet August through first week of November
Register and Pay
To enroll for the classes, follow these steps:
- Apply to Virginia Western.
- Register for the class by finding the 5-digit class number in the Class Schedule, then use these instructions to register.
- Pay for your class using one of these options.
For additional information or assistance with the registration process, call 24/7 Student Support at 855- 874-6690. If you need additional information about these courses, call the School of Business, Technology and Trades at 540-857-7272.
Students who cannot attend on Saturday, decide to drop or is removed from the range due to safety concerns on Saturday, will receive a WITHDRAWAL from the class without a refund.
Students who cannot attend on Sunday, decide to drop or is removed from the range due to safety concerns on Sunday, will receive a grade of “U” without a refund.
If a student completes the course and receives a non-passing grade, tuition is not refunded.
Decisions to dismiss a student for safety concerns, are at the discretion of the instructor(s).
Contact Us
Webber Hall W305
540-857-7272
Fax: 540-857-7086
Mailing address:
School of Business, Technology & Trades
3098 Colonial Ave., SW
Roanoke, VA 24015