Frequently asked questions:
'I haven’t passed my bike test yet, can you teach me from scratch?’
No, all Ride Wise training is post-test training. A full, or restricted power licence is required and your bike will need to be insured and have an MOT unless exempt.
‘I only have a scooter, 125cc or cruiser style bike. Is any type of bike okay?’
All bike types are welcome and catered for. It is not about high speeds, the rider is the most important factor, and all riders will benefit from the Ride Wise training, however, you and your bike have to be road worthy and legal.
‘I’m not very experienced and not particularly confident. Will I be out of my depth?’
Not in the slightest. The corner stone of Ride Wise training is to enjoy yourself and take away skills which can last you a life time, it's not about putting yourself under pressure. I go at your pace, there's no sense in pushing someone, it's not the best way to progress. All riders are welcome and it is well worth remembering that it's the least experienced riders that have least pre conceptions and tend to develop very quickly.
‘I don’t have leather riding kit. Is other stuff okay?’
Yes of course, leathers are not to everyone’s taste. I strongly recommend to wear proper motorcycling kit, manufactured specifically for the purpose, an approved helmet, a pair of gloves and sturdy boots are an absolute minimum but be prepared for poor weather conditions so warm clothing is recommended. Likewise, when it’s hot I'll turn you away if you come wearing shorts and flip-flops.
‘How is a typical day organised?’
All Ride Wise training is student centred so in simple terms ‘It’s all about you’ and I will tailor the day to your needs.
It is highly advantageous to have a decent chat on the phone before any training is undertaken. This can help to take away some of your nerves when you realise that I don’t bite and also to devise a framework and route planning for the day ultimately saving you time and money. It’s pointless planning a session in a urban environment if you want motorway training with correct lane selection, defensive riding, filtering and dealing with entrance and exits prior to going on a European tour.
All one-to-one training is normally broken into specific topic or subjects which may help you. Each subject is then broken into three main sections, initially talking through specific methods, techniques and skills followed by their practical application. It is well established principle in education that adults learn best ‘by doing’ this is where a lot of learning takes place as you will be in constant communication providing continual help, advice, support and encouragement.
All rides are followed by a summary debrief to ensure learning has taken place and you are happy before moving onto the next logic subject. This building block approach ensures sessions remain focused solely on your own current needs and although the training will move from simple to complex you will never be pushed or feel under pressure to ride outside your comfort level.
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‘Is all the training always one-to-one or could I be paired with another student?
If you have chosen to undertake your training with a friend that’s fine. You can learn together as each rider will have communications and can learn a lot by observing and listening to the coaching and feedback of another rider. Each rider can still be trained on their individual needs. At no time will you ever be paired with another rider unless this has been specifically requested. Please note that the price remains the same and is per rider not per session.
‘What about food & drink?’
We will naturally stop for chat with a cup of tea or coffee to examine new principles and review how things are going, what’s working well and what needs tweaking to suit you. This is usually in a local bike or roadside cafe for a break or you can bring your own packed lunch.
What equipment do you provide?
Ride Wise does not provide any motorcycles or motorcycle clothing. Bluetooth communications will be provided if necessary or you may use your own helmet communication if preferred.
How can I pay and do you need a deposit?
You can pay by bank transfer 7 days prior to training taking place.
A £50 deposit is required prior to book any training which is refundable up to 7 days prior to the start of the training.
What area do you cover?
I am based near Catterick in North Yorkshire and provide training within a 50-mile radius however I'm flexible so just ask.
What roads do you use?
The Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire Moors and The lake District have some of the best roads in the counrty. Great scenery, breath taking views and lovely cafes. No matter what your training needs there are great roads to cover your needs.
What is your experience and actual qualifications?
I am a retired police sergeant with over 30 years’ experience as an advanced driver and rider. I have taught officers from almost every force in the country as well as the military, other government departments and International Police Forces devising training and assessment programs which have been adopted nationally and internationally.
I hold numerous coaching, training and assessment qualifications including D32/D32 A1/A2 assessment awards and D34/V1 internal verifier award and City and Guild 7307 and Certificate in Education allowing me to teach in adult education.
Will you be able to help with my specific needs?
I think I’ve seen just about everything, if you put the effort in, you’ll get there.
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Can I bring a friend and half the cost ?
Sessions are conducted purely on a one to one basis, however if you feel more confident learning with a partner or friend then two to one training is possible. Prices are per person and the cost is not halved.
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Do I need comms ?
Bluetooth communications are used to provide instant feedback, tuition and help eliminating the need for lengthy debriefs at the side of the road trying to remember previous manoeuvres or incidents. This also enables greater distances and changing roads to be experienced but if it helps to stop, walk around a bend and then ride that same bend repeatedly to increase your knowledge, understanding and confidence then that’s what we can do. Everybody learns at a different pace and has a preferred learning style.
What about speed cameras, parking tickets or fines?
As a rider you are always responsible for your own actions and governed by the Road traffic Act. You need your own insurance and if you decide to speed or commit an offence it's down to you.
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Are your courses dangerous?
Whilst we will do everything to reduce risk and mitigate danger during training, riding a motorcycle always carries potential risk to the rider. Students will never be pushed and feel under pressure to ride outside their comfort level but must always be responsible for their own actions. All training is at the students’ own risk. All training is delivered at your own pace in a relaxed friendly way and you will never be made to feel uncomfortable or pushed beyond your capabilities.