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Upright Derbyshire BikeSafe workshop 130322

Not sure what to expect when signing up for a Derbyshire BikeSafe workshop – Upright Derbyshire explains

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I wasn’t sure what to expect when I signed to attend a Derbyshire BikeSafe workshop. I’ve done RoSPA, IAM and a BikerDown course and thought it would have similar content.
 
There were five other riders on the course, plus three Police Motorcyclists delivering the workshop. The other riders were from all walks of life and of all levels of experience. From new riders that had literally just passed and picked up their first motorbike the day before to returning riders that have toured Europe in the past but had a long break without owning a motorbike. Oh and me, two years and four months in and more obsessed with motorbikes everyday.
 
BikeSafe Derbyshire includes two sessions. The first being the ‘classroom’ element and the second being the ‘observed ride’.
 
Let’s be honest, we’re all here for the ride right? If you’re expecting the Police riders to deliver boring talks about why you shouldn’t be ‘naughty’ on a bike then you’re very wrong ! These guys are highly trained, highly competent and very professional in what they do – but remember, their passion is for riding motorbikes and riding them well.
 
The classroom session is a snapshot masterclass on how to be a better rider. Who wouldn’t want to listen to that?
Derbyshire BikeSafe workshop 130322

This is about riding a motorbike well

It’s also a two way stream, the Officers ask, listen and learn from us on this side of the classroom. Interaction is non stop and because of this the course doesn’t feel like a classroom where you’re just being talked at. It’s actually very enjoyable. The course is based around the Roadcraft method of riding and only covers riding techniques and methods. This ain’t a first aid or speed awareness course! This is about riding a motorbike well.

But now to the ride. We were paired up with someone of similar riding skills / experience and briefed on how the ride will go. One in front, Police motorcyclist in the middle and then one at the back. Then swap front and back at the half way point. Care is taken so that everyone knows their role etc and off we go.

Then the fun really begins. Ok, it’s a bit nervy seeing the big police bike weaving around behind you observing your every move but once the nerves settle it’s the best fun ever! Especially seeing the reactions of some road users who assume you’re being chased on some of the sections where you get to twist the throttle a little. I was smiling from start to finish!

You follow instructions from your mirrors and go on a route through some great Derbyshire roads. It’s not a difficult route, but it’s also not a slow potter. You get to really ‘ride’ and in a few hours get to cover many different types of roads and practice the skills discussed in the classroom.

Then you get back to base, have a brew and swap stories with the other riders about how your ride went. The Officers complete their feedback form and call you for a 1:1 chat about your ride.

Now, for me this is where the benefit of the course really comes in. The feedback delivered is second to none. They’ve seen everything that you did or didn’t do and their single goal is to help you to improve.

You have a little chat, again it’s two way where you can discuss your thoughts of the ride and listen to the feedback given. The feedback is positive and delivered in a structured way so that you leave better than when you arrived no matter what level you were a few hours ago.

Is this course for you? Don’t ask that – instead ask, do you want to be better than you already are? No brainer! Sign up. I’m already looking forward to doing the course again in the future.

Written by Andy, Upright Derbyshire

BikeSafe workshop with Derbyshire Police 130322

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