Choosing the right motorcycle instructor can play a major role in developing safe riding habits when you’re first learning. A good instructor should boost your confidence and improve your chances of passing your test. But they should do more than just help you pass your test. They should ensure your safety, make you a competent rider, and ensure you understand your motorcycle fully too.
Teaching Style & Student Satisfaction
Every student learns differently; it’s important that your instructor is adaptive to your learning style so you can take in information effectively. It’s a good idea to check out their reviews ahead of booking your first session to see how other students responded to their teaching.
A good instructor should be patient, encouraging and professional, so look for patterns within their reviews that reflect this. It could also be worth asking friends and family that ride motorcycles who they trained through. They’ll be able to give you a thorough review of an instructor’s skills and weaknesses, helping you get a good idea of if they’re right for you.
Motorcycle Safety
Your safety and that of those around you should always be the number one priority. This looks like good class ratios, strong road etiquette, and an emphasis on being correctly dressed with protective equipment provided or required ahead of your lesson.
Once you’re at your lesson, it’s also good to check out the training bike you’ll be riding. Is it clean? Has it been well maintained? Are there different motorcycle sizes depending on licence category? Comfort and confidence on your training bike improve your learning outcome. So it’s vital that you are learning in a clean, maintained, and safe environment.
Availability, Flexibility, & Cost
It is important to note that the cheapest option is not always the most cost-effective, nor is it usually the most suitable for your needs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your instructor. If you’re only able to have lessons in the early morning, make sure they can accommodate it. If you’re looking for weekend classes, let your instructor know. If they are adaptable to your needs, you’re more likely to succeed.
It’s also worth considering what is included in their training package. Does it cover equipment hire? Test fees? Follow-up support once you’ve passed? If you’re in need of a specific aspect of motorcycle instruction, then the best way to ensure your lessons are cost-effective is to confirm its inclusion.
Some Good Questions To Ask
- How long have you been teaching?
- What training packages do you offer?
- What happens if I need extra lessons?
- What motorcycle will I train on?
- How do you tailor training to different learners?
- Do you offer ongoing support for your learners?
Remember, learning to ride a motorcycle should be an enjoyable and positive experience. Making sure your learning environment is set up for you only helps to ensure your success.
