Riding like a pro?

[BigSteve]

I've just watched Jerry Palladino's Ride Like a Pro V, and think it's the coolest training video I've ever seen. Okay, I've only seen the one, but you get the idea...

Are there courses run in the UK (preferably near Manchester) that can teach me to handle my Dyna half as well as they throw their Leccy's round the cones, using the same simple methodology? I'm inspired to run out and find an empty car park (hah!) right now, but a lack of engine bars makes me a bit nervous of dropping my baby.

The high speed stuff doesn't interest me right now as much as learning to confidently bob and weave my way round town traffic under full control.

[devon.john]

Steve
get in touch with RoSPA there might be a group in your area,

are training course starts next week in Nth Devon, this starts with 6weekly
lectures followed by an assessment ride, then you are assigned a observer
this is usually on a one to one basis, the observer picks a route from 30mls up to 100mls as your riding in proves.
you can take the advanced riding test this is the highest civilian test you can take theres three grades bronze, silver, and gold and of course a fail
most insurance company's give a discount to advanced riders,
i hope you can get on a course you will not regret it, and it could save your life

john (RoSPA GOLD and observer )

[BigSteve]

Thanks John, a RoSPA course is definitely on the cards in the future.

However, I'm currently more interested in the excellent low-speed feet-up control of the bike that's covered in the RLAP video.
It appears there's an easier way of handling a big bike (á la American bike cop) other than paddling awkwardly round in embarrassing 3-point turns and such.

Not to worry sir, I'll find a suitable space and go out and practice.
If anyone else in the Manchester area has seen the video and fancies a go, we could maybe get together and improve as a group?

[Killer]

I know that its expensive but I learned so much at Riders Edge in Wales in 3 days on low speed handling and figure of eights etc I thought it was worth the money. My previous bikes were kamakazie Jap bikes being ridden at times a bit on the pushing my luck side.

The Riders Edge course has certainly changed the way I ride these days.

[Urrell]

Do a search here Greater Manchester Police - Links

On the Lincolnshire equivalent there are lots of courses including the Cadwell Park course that encompasses low and high speed tuition. A few of us Region 23 took this last year and more are doing it again this year.

[hirsty]

Originally Posted by BigSteve

I've just watched Jerry Palladino's Ride Like a Pro V, and think it's the coolest training video I've ever seen. Okay, I've only seen the one, but you get the idea...

Are there courses run in the UK (preferably near Manchester) that can teach me to handle my Dyna half as well as they throw their Leccy's round the cones, using the same simple methodology? I'm inspired to run out and find an empty car park (hah!) right now, but a lack of engine bars makes me a bit nervous of dropping my baby.

The high speed stuff doesn't interest me right now as much as learning to confidently bob and weave my way round town traffic under full control.

Hi Big Steve, got that same DVD and am going down same road as yourself.
I've done riders edge-its police system style and nowt wrong with that, but we did not get much lowspeed stuff.
They did run a winter course doing that tight stuff on ultras, but they stopped doing it.
I'm trying to get a day or 2days just doing that stuff but its hard going at the moment.
The courses are 2 riders to 1 instructor, I was going to try getting my mate to go with me and then insisting we do more slow speed stuff, but he's a bit cash strapped.
The courses are pricey but includes the bike(s) hotel and all meals and gear if u need it.
Riders edge is the choice cos they got the bikes and the showground plus a big shed if its piddlin down.
I'm up for it. lemme know wotya think.

[Sporty Girl]

Did you guys ever get anywhere with this? We have the DVD too. Pretty impressive stuff.

Also some some US police practising long before I learnt to ride. I didn't appreciate the skill at the time but I do now!

[hirsty]

[quote=Sporty Girl;697243]Did you guys ever get anywhere with this? We have the DVD too. Pretty impressive stuff.

Not really, I have done some stuff on my own, but its not actually that easy to find a space to practice, which is why I'm gonna persevere with pestering Riders Edge.I hope to press gang a mate who has just got an Ultra in to going.

It should be borne in mind that doing these manouvers is not risk free,and in the real world I exercise caution.My low speed control has improved tho and there is a buzz from handling a Glide at all speeds.

It isn't absolutely necessary to have these skills, but if ya like that kind thang its satisfying.

[Sporty Girl]

Hi John, keep pestering Rider's Edge. By co-incidence I rang them today about their courses re slow riding and 'advanced' training to ROSPA standards. I'm expecting a call back on Monday, so I'll PM you if I get anything interesting.

Nicky

[Sporty Girl]

I've called Riders Edge twice now and been promised a call back but no response, which is disappointing because I really enjoyed the Riders Edge Course that I did go on.