With gas prices reaching unprecedented heights, consumers are looking at various ways to save money at the pump.

One method many are trying is to downsize from larger trucks and sport utility vehicles to more economical motorcycles and scooters.

This insurgence of new riders prompted the TEAM Arizona Motorcycle Training Specialists to offer basic rider safety courses in Safford. The group recently finished one of its three-day programs covering classroom training as well as rider training in the field.

Participants in TEAM Arizona’s basic rider safety course perform a preride check of their motorcycles. Contributed photo

The next basic rider courses are scheduled for July 18-20 and Aug. 29-31. Brochures are available at Drew & the Crew Motorsports and Desert Riders Motorsports, or more information can be found in the trainers’ Web site at www.motorcycletraining.com.

The TEAM’s basic rider course teaches students how to operate a motorcycle, the best protective clothing to wear, how to avoid dangerous situations and how to get out of dangerous situations that can’t be avoided.

Everything one needs, including the use of a motorcycle or scooter, is included in the class price of $285. Upon completion of the course, students earn their motorcycle endorsement and do not have to do further testing at the Motor Vehicle Division. A successful completion certificate also lowers the insurance premium with many providers. In Arizona, a motorcycle endorsement is necessary to legally operate a motorcycle or purchase one from a dealer.

Drew & the Crew Motorsports and Desert Riders Motorsports have partnered with the specialists and donated motorcycles for the students to use.

Billi Jurado, a manager at Desert Riders, said the class is very helpful for new riders and makes them aware of proper safety equipment among other things.

“People need to have some riding knowledge,” she said. “We don’t want people just jumping on a bike and taking off.”

Jurado emphasized that information on the importance of proper safety gear is needed more in Arizona because the state doesn’t have the same safety laws as other states.

The basic rider course is held over three days and consists of a total of 5.5 hours of class time and 10 hours of hands-on ride skills development. Classes are held at the Safford Elks Lodge, and the riding portion is held at the Graham County Fairgrounds.