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Hi there! Thanks for visiting.

Anyone who knows me also knows my passion for anything motorcycling-related so no apologies here for the motorcycling bias! What I've tried to do is offer some suggestions for those who are looking at different ways to develop their riding further.

I've been actively involved in motorcycle rider training in all its various forms since 1978 (starting with the old RAC /ACU rider training courses) and my first recommendation for anyone looking to develop their riding further would be to contact one of their local IAM groups. On the whole these have long since left behind the days of the Sam Browne belt, BMW-riding middle-aged bikers image. (although many excellent instructors still sometimes fit this description!) The general diversity of members however truly offers something for everyone. Have a look at the I.A.M. and RoSPA websites for details of your nearest group as there really isn't a more cost effective way into post-test / 'Advanced' training.

Next, if you're looking for something rather more bespoke, or taking that step beyond what the local groups have to offer, there are a number of privately run companies offering courses personalised to your individual needs. I'd suggest that you be wary of any that offer a 'one size fits all' approach as that size is quite unlikely to be perfect for you. Instead, aim for courses that can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Of those that I've had experience with, by far the best I've come across is Rapid Training. Look on the site for feedback from happy customers and press alike. All the instructors are Police Class 1 riders, and around 50% of these are actually Police Instructors themselves! Many also have race experience and I honestly don't know of any motorcycle training company in the country that has either a better team of instructors or a better attitude towards its customers. E.M.A.P. have chosen them to provide courses for their journalists, now what better recommendation can there be than that!

Next comes the thorny subject (amongst some) of trackdays. I'm firmly in the camp that thinks these are a good thing, but it's really essential that you pick one that is suitable to your specific needs once again! They come in two main types, those that offer just the chance to ride on a track, and those who are more training oriented.

In the first group (those that offer just the chance to ride on a track) I cannot really offer any practical help other than to suggest you seek the opinions from the various bulletin boards, in order to get some first-hand feedback.

In the second group (those offering the chance to ride on a track but with the option, should you require it, of top-rate, one to one instruction) can I suggest Rapid Tracks. An offshoot of Rapid Training for V.A.T. reasons, so still utilising their excellent training team and their same 'customer caring' attitude, but this time on the track instead. Superb organisation, as always with rider safety a number one priority.

One other subject that is very close to my heart, having instructed there for some ten years, is the Nürburgring. A greater thrill on a bike I have yet to experience! However beware, the weekends (for those that haven't been before) are for the very brave (or should this be foolhardy?) only. Far better to experience this formidable and challenging circuit in the comparative sanity of the quieter mid-week sessions. If you are contemplating visiting this awesome circuit, do some research first. The very best place I've found for this is Ben Lovejoy's excellent site concerning all things Nürburgring. There you'll also find links to opening times, places to stay, and how to get there. If fact everything you're ever likely to need on that subject!

Quite closely connected to this, if you're looking for places to stay in either the Ardennes (Belgium) or Eifel (Germany) areas around the Nürburgring, is Aeaventures. They are a B&B with a very motorcycling oriented flavour to them, run by current Nürburgring instructor Neil Leigh and his wife Ann. Two better hosts you're unlikely to meet and if you stay for a five-day period, on one of those days he'll even escort you to the circuit and pass on his wealth of knowledge if you wish. Also, while you're there be sure not to miss the fantastic Spa-Francorchamps circuit. If you time it correctly you may be able to get on one of the very well-run Biker's Days trackdays regularly held there. One thing's for sure, if you're a speed junkie this track will really appeal, trust me!

So there we have it. The recommendations are totally biased of course, but they're all ones I've had personal experience of and / or are currently involved in, so I can speak with certainty on each of them. But whatever 'biking-related' things you do, above all just make sure you have fun doing them!

If you wish to discuss any of these further just e-mail me here.

Jon