Every now and again there is a quantum leap in motorcycle racing technology, whether it’s the engine, chassis, suspension, riding techniques or safety. Consider the genius of Walter Kaaden’s 2-stroke expansion chamber or the back protector which Barry Sheene knocked up from old visors for Dainese to transform into a massive success.
Whether you’re looking to improve your road craft or track technique there is plenty of choice when it comes to advanced rider training, from race schools to ROSPA. However there is only one organisation that is entirely dedicated to the art of cornering. Founded in California by Keith Code in the 1980’s, his school’s original purpose was to help superbike racers to improve their lap times – hence the name.
For the first time since the UK arm of the Superbike school opened in 1996, it will offer an exclusively female session for riders looking to experience Level One coaching.
Andy Ibbott UK School Director; "We ran a 'Ladies only' day in South Africa earlier this year, which was hugely successful, and we have had calls for similar here in the UK. Around 10% of students who attend our schools are female, but there are many more out there who would like training but feel intimidated by a track environment with guys out there."
Screeching rubber on tarmac and locking brakes shatters the May air as you wrestle desperately to avoid hitting the young child who suddenly appeared from nowhere right in front of you. A near miss that could have been so much worse had you not been obeying the speed limit. But shouldn’t you have been expecting something like this to happen? After all it’s 3.30 in the afternoon and children just out of school always hang around sweet shops like the one you just passed. You just weren’t being observant enough!
As a motorcyclist, “observation” is a word you hear time and again. As a learner you are told to regularly take “rear observation” so that you are aware of what is behind you. At advanced level you are advised to develop your level of observation further up the road to give yourself more time to plan.
However, an area of observation that is often overlooked is the ability to link what you are seeing to circumstances that may develop as the ride progresses.
Anticipation. It sounds simple, and it is. It’s easy to switch off while you’re riding, especially when the roads are a little quieter. Always keep an eye out for the unexpected.
Sometimes this job is difficult, writing articles for the site takes time and commitment and for certain projects it also takes a hands on approach to learn a skill I am writing about - this is most certainly what had to happen in order to pen this article. Let me just say that although this assignment was physical and required learning it was also one of the most fun things I have ever had a chance to do.
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