She stated that the goal is to help people succeed, but that it is also necessary at times to discourage some people from pursuing their desire to ride cycles. Don Belange questioned how many people were trained in 1997 and Ms. Kadar reported that approximately 3,600 individuals had taken the course. Mr. Belange then asked how many fatalities occurred in Minnesota in 1997 and Tanya Hamre reported the total to be 24. Tom Guthery pointed out that this is the lowest number of cycle fatalities reported in decades. Ms. Kadar stated that nine sites are open from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. once per week from May through August in order to better accommodate the public.
Instructors are on site to monitor the use of testing motorcycles.
Ms. Kadar reported that the program has been very successful and the federal government is very pleased with the program. Doug Marsh reported on off-highway motorcycle training, stating this is the third year of the program. Mr. Marsh stated that 21 individuals took the course in 1996 and 27 people were trained in 1997. Mr. Marsh said that this course offered an educational opportunity for street riders also, that all training was done on a cycle and that motorcycles were available for the course. The Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center 1998 course schedule was distributed by Ms. Kadar, who stated that quantities were available if anyone wanted a supply for their use.