Since March 1973, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) has set internationally recognized standards of excellence in motorcycle rider education and training.  The MSF works with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), state governments, the military and other organizations to improve motorcyclist education, training and operator licensing. The MSF is a national, not-for-profit organization sponsored by the U.S. manufacturers and distributors of BMW, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio/Vespa, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha motorcycles.

Objectives and Strategies

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is the leader in championing the safety of motorcyclists by:

• Developing and maintaining a high quality, comprehensive, research-based Rider Education and Training System (MSF RETS) and its individual curriculum products.                  
• Establishing national trainer and site certification standards and providing technical assistance for training and licensing programs.                  
• Promoting model or enabling legislation to create state-funded rider training programs.                  
• Actively participating in government relations, research and public awareness                  
• Partnering with other motorcycling and public organizations to make the nation's streets and highways safer for motorcyclists.

The MSF does not deal with motorcycle design or manufacture; its programs focus on the motorcycle operator.

The Five Main MSF Messages for Motorcyclists

To enhance the enjoyment of motorcycling, MSF recommends that riders:

• Get trained and licensed.                  
• Wear protective gear.                  
• Ride unimpaired.                  
• Ride within your limits.  
• Be a lifelong learner.