Every year free motorcycle skills courses are offered throughout the state for beginning and experienced riders, but this year fewer courses were offered because of budget cuts.

Kathy Syversen, coordinator of the Motorcycle Safety Project at NIU, said the number of courses available was drastically reduced.

“This year courses were offered May through August, and 105 beginner courses were offered,” she said. “Last year courses were offered April through September, and 113 beginner courses and 29 experienced rider courses were offered.”

Syversen said there was a cut back on courses because “the state legislature hit the fund for $230,000 in order to put the money into general revenue.” The project is funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation and motorcycle registration fees.

Syversen said she hopes to be back on schedule next year and able to train at the level she expected in 1992.

The 20-hour beginner course includes hands-on experience, classroom instruction, materials and a motorcycle provided by sponsoring dealers.

Experienced riders must use their own motorcycle for an 8-hour course that includes classroom and range training.

Those eligible for the course must be an Illinois resident, 16-years-old or older and have a valid drivers license or permit. Those under 18 must have parental approval.

There is a $20 registration fee required in order to secure your spot in the class, but it is refunded to all students who attend 50 percent or more of the course.

Most of the courses are offered in the suburbs of Chicago and meet either on the weekend or during weeknights.

Anyone interested in receiving a March brochure should contact the Motorcycle Safety Project at 753-1683.