Several squadron aboard the air station have created motorcycle clubs in an effort to improve motorcycle safety and reduce casualties from motorcycle-related accidents.

Three 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing squadrons and MCAS Miramar’s Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron created riding clubs that offer motorcycle riders an opportunity to have fun, while novice riders enhance their safe riding skills by learning from more experienced riders.

Motorcycle enthusiasts with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 meet twice a month to practice safe motorcycle riding.

In addition to teaching newer riders safe riding skills, more experienced riders provide tips on maintaining motorcycles and the ins and outs of protective gear.

Staff Sgt. Victor L. Kazlman, an air frames mechanic for the squadron and one of the mentors for the Marines in the squadron’s motorcycle club, educates his Marines on biking safety with tips on how just a little piece of trash can spell danger.

“It’s not a mandatory thing for the riders, but it gives Marines a chance to build camaraderie among each other and learn how to be better riders,” said Kazlman. “We try to teach our fellow riders to respect their bikes, other vehicles and the road. It’s better to ride with more experience than luck.”

To practice better riding techniques, the club goes to many places to ride their bikes such as Julian, La Jolla and the Laguna Mountains.

They go through places with a variety of terrain including steep and high hills, long-open roads and sharp winding turns. While on the road the riders improve their skills by observing the way the lead biker moves his motorcycle around curves, obstacles and other vehicles.

“To keep everyone out of danger, we ride with safety in mind and tach them to be more aware of situations when they ride,” said Sgt. Edward A. Hamkens, a non commissioned officer mentor for the club. “It’s fun to get away from the crowded city and ride for hours with the Marines from our squadron.”

Headquarters& Headquarters Squadron, Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 and Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 also have riding clubs.

“I enjoy riding. The rush you get going quickly down the highway feels great,” said Sgt. Agustan T. Garcia, an avionics supervisor for HMH-462 and biking enthusiast.