Last week I read the continually repeated myth that you can learn to ride a motorcycle by yourself, without any formal instruction. Such statements are totally untrue and dangerous. A motorcycle isn’t a toy, or a bicycle with an engine. Although in the 19th century that is how they were developed. The limitation of using a bicycle design rapidly became apparent and motorcycle design was born. When I decided to get a full motorcycle licence, finding the right trainer was top of the list. After training in the worst weather, I successfully passed my test. What to do next? A lightbulb moment permeated the soggy helmet with the thought, ‘If you want to ride well, ride with those who ride well!’ Thus, my adventures with IAM RoadSmart began! The question still remains, why do some bikers believe that advising new riders they can ‘learn it themselves’ still persist? Well, the UK Government thinks that a 2-day Compulsory Basic Training course can get you started. Thousands of bikers never get any further and simply re-take the certificate every two years. They are also the group with the highest casualty rate, a fondness for ambulances and hospital food!

The Risks of Riding Solo: Why Guided Training is Essential

Learning to ride a motorcycle is a thrilling and empowering experience. I know, I’ve done it for many years. Many motorcycle writers wax lyrical about the wind in your hair. I haven’t got any left now! They drool about having an exhilarating sense of control over a powerful machine. However, it’s important to approach your two-wheeled adventure with caution, respect and the right training. Some riders choose to try and learn on their own and mock those who choose a motorcycle trainer. There are significant advantages to getting guided training from a properly qualified and experienced motorcycling coach.

The Pitfalls of Self-Learning

1. Lack of Proper Instruction: When learning on your own, you may miss out on crucial techniques and safety guidelines that are essential for safe riding. A motorcycling coach provides clear and concise instructions, ensuring that you understand the fundamentals of motorcycle handling and control. Instruction has to be adapted to the way that you learn and at a pace that ensures you have time to develop the knowledge and skills needed to ride safely.

2. Potential for Bad Habits: Everyone makes mistakes. Many of us fall off in the process. We did it on a scooter, roller skates and a bicycle. Learning from mistakes is all part of the process. Without proper guidance, you won’t know where and why you went wrong. You can easily develop bad habits that can be difficult, or even impossible, to change later on. A motorcycle coach will help you to identify and correct any errors in your technique and prevent any unsafe bad habits from developing.

3. Increased Risk of Accidents: Many studies have repeatedly shown that riders who have received formal training are less likely to be involved in accidents. Those who take advanced motorcycle training reduce their risks further and develop better riding knowledge and skills. This is because training gives you a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to ride in a wide range of road and weather conditions. Having ridden, with a pillion, in a force 5 gale, I can vouch for the need to  be well trained. You can never know for certain when the weather will change, no matter how good the forecast.

4. Limited Exposure to Different Riding Scenarios: Self-learning often involves practising in familiar environments. Always riding the same field, car park or local roads. When your mates say, ‘Let’s go to the coast for fish and chips,’ you might find yourself riding in an alien landscape. However, safe riding requires the ability to adapt to various conditions, including sudden changes in traffic, weather and terrain. A motorcycle coach can expose you to a wider range of riding scenarios, helping you develop the skills needed to ride safer when the riding environment changes.

5. Lack of Accountability: When learning on your own, it can be easy to become complacent or to skip important steps in the learning process. A motorcycle coach provides accountability, ensuring that you are progressing at a safe and steady pace. You are mastering all the necessary safe riding skills for when you need them.

The Value of Guided Training

1. Comprehensive Instruction: Motorcycle coaches are highly trained to provide a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of motorcycle riding, from basic riding to advanced bike control techniques. This prepares you to handle any situation you may encounter on the road.

2. Personalised Learning: You are unique! The way that you learn has been formed by family, school, social activity and work. Guided motorcycle training has to  provide personalised learning, tailored to your individual learning style and needs. A motorcycle coach will identify your strengths and weaknesses to provide targeted instruction just for you.

3. Safety First: A motorcycle coach will always prioritise your safety and will ensure that you are riding within your abilities and following all traffic laws. This can significantly reduce any risk of an accident. If you try learning by yourself you may not be able to tell yourself that a particular riding move isn’t going to work; and, may end badly.

4. Confidence Building: Learning from a highly qualified motorcycle coach can really boost your confidence. It can help you to feel more comfortable and in control on your motorcycle. This will enhance your overall riding experience and give you a real sense of achievement.

5. Long-Term Benefits: The skills and knowledge gained through guided motorcycle training will benefit you for years to come. By investing in professional training, you are making an investment in your own safety and enjoyment of riding for life. Whether you are simply riding to college, using it as a stop-gap until you can get onto 4-wheeled transport, going to work or college, or taking an adventure ride around the world – you will always remember where you learnt to ride and who taught you.

In conclusion, trying to learn to ride a motorcycle on your own is not a good idea, no matter what your best mates, or self-appointed experts say. The benefits of seeking guided motorcycle training from a qualified and experienced motorcycle coach far outweigh any risks. By investing in professional motorcycle instruction, you are ensuring that you are well-prepared to ride safely and confidently to enjoy a lifetime of freedom and adventure on two wheels.

If you have a full motorcycle licence, you can develop you riding further by having a FREE observed ride and consider completing an advanced motorcycling course. It’s a riding challenge that both you and your bike deserve. See you 9am, any Saturday throughout the year, at Meadowhall Retail Park, Attercliffe Common, Sheffield S9 2YZ. Ride safe.