MCrider provides free weekly motorcycle training videos on YouTube and other video platforms focussed on motorcycle road skills and road strategy to help make you a better rider. Most sessions found on MCrider focus on either Road Skills or Road Strategy aspects of riding, we will discuss the differences later in this article.
Use the search tool at MCrider to find videos on various lessons focusing on riding a motorcycle and how to improve your skills as a rider. It does not matter if you are looking to get your motorcycle license, you are looking for a motorcycle training program, or you want more control over your motorcycle, MCrider has tips and advice to help you on your journey.
The nice thing about doing motorcycle training online is you can learn at your own pace and on your own bike. However, this is not a substitute for taking an in-person training class and can not be used to get your motorcycle license. In this article, we will discuss online and in-person motorcycle training.
Why Motorcycle Safety Online?
The internet offers a wealth of information when it comes to learning to ride a motorcycle. There are numerous training sites that provide comprehensive guides on how to get started on this exciting journey. You can learn about the different types of motorcycles and their features, as well as the necessary safety equipment required for riding. Additionally, many training sites offer courses specifically tailored to help you obtain your motorcycle permit or license. The Basic Rider Course (BRC) is a highly recommended course that provides both classroom and practical training. The course aims to develop the essential skills required for a safe riding experience. You can also find information about the DMV requirements and regulations concerning motorcycle riding. Upon successful completion of a course or training program, you can improve your riding experience and ensure your safety on the road.
If you want to be a proficient motorcyclist, it is recommended that all riders get safety training, in fact, most states require a new rider class in order to get your license.
However, many riders either do not take the class or have taken a class but have not practiced what they learned in the class. MCrider is a supplement to taking in-person motorcycle classes but it is an important supplement.
Who Is MCrider Online Training For?
MCrider online training is specially designed for anyone who wants to enhance their motorcycle riding skills or learn how to ride a motorcycle safely. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, MCrider has something to offer for everyone. The videos are perfect for those who want to ride with more confidence, improve their cornering skills, or learn how to ride on different terrain. The training is also beneficial for those who want to brush up on their riding skills after a hiatus. MCrider online training is ideal for anyone looking to become more proficient on their motorcycle while also staying safe on the road.
New riders: You will find a lot of valuable topics to help you get started on the right foot on your motorcycle. As a former Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and Total Control instructor Kevin, the host of MCrider understands the things that new riders struggle with. He provides the things you need to know and specific tips and techniques that will improve your skills as a rider.
Experienced riders: riding a motorcycle is a lifelong learning experience. Ask any good rider and they will admit that learning to ride a motorcycle is not something you do in one weekend in a parking lot. MCrider offers videos that refresh your knowledge as a rider, challenge your ideas as a rider, and provide an environment where all riders, no matter their skill level, can grow as a rider.
Want to learn to ride, but not sure if it’s for you?
If you have ever had the desire to learn how to ride a motorcycle, but are not sure if it is for you, do not let your doubts keep you from experiencing what could be an incredibly enjoyable and fulfilling pastime. Riding a motorcycle can provide a sense of freedom and excitement that simply cannot be experienced with other modes of transportation. While it can be a bit intimidating at first, with some basic training and practice, anyone can learn how to ride a motorcycle safely and confidently. It is important to remember that just like any new skill or activity, it may take some time to get comfortable on a motorcycle, but with patience and determination, the rewards can be significant. So, if you are interested in learning how to ride, go ahead and give it a try – you may just discover a new passion.
A lot of people are interested in riding a motorcycle but they are not sure if it is for them. My suggestion, enroll in an MSF Basic Rider Class. You will spend one weekend in a safe environment getting to know motorcycles and you will get to ride a motorcycle without the expense of purchasing one for your own.
If you decide to ride, you will have to complete an MSF class anyway to get your license, so a good introduction to the world of motorcycles is in an MSF new rider class. If at the end of the class you decide riding a motorcycle is not for you, your cost is a lot lower than a rider who runs out and buys a motorcycle, only later to decide they don't want to ride.
So, take a new rider class and get that certificate for your M endorsement on your license. However, if you do want to ride, don't wait long before you get your first motorcycle, the longer you wait the rustier your skills on the motorcycle will be. Riding skills do degrade quickly, especially new rider skills, they need to be reinforced soon after getting your license.
Motorcycle training schools
When it comes to learning to ride in the United States there are two primary safety courses to earn your motorcycle endorsement. The MSF Basic Rider Course, and Total Control Rider Clinic. Both of these schools focus on basic skills, rider education, and rider safety. Depending on the State where you live, these courses are recognized by the department of motor vehicles for licensing purposes.
The MSF offers a comprehensive safety program. It is more widely used and may be easier to locate than a Total Control class. Use the links above and do some research, to see what is available in your area and which style of class will be better for you. Whether you are a new rider, an experienced rider, or a returning rider, the MSF and Total Control clinic will help make you a better rider.
There are other training classes for educational purposes that focus other riding techniques on low-speed skills, track skills, or adventure riding. Check out the MCrider training map and see if there is a class close to you.
What to expect at a new rider motorcycle class
If you're signed up for a novice rider motorcycle class, you can expect to learn the fundamentals of riding a motorcycle. Most classes begin with a classroom portion that covers the basics of motorcycle mechanics, traffic laws, and safety equipment.
After that, you will put what you learned into practice with hands-on training. You'll be taught how to mount and dismount your bike, starting and stopping techniques, how to shift gears, and how to maneuver through a course. You can also expect to learn about defensive riding and how to react to unexpected situations. Instructors will assess your skills throughout the course and provide feedback on how you can improve. They want you to be able to ride safely and confidently, so don't be afraid to ask questions or seek help when needed. Overall, new rider motorcycle classes provide a comprehensive education in motorcycle riding, and you'll leave with the skills and knowledge to safely hit the open road.
Are you still nervous about taking a new rider class?
Here are 5 tips to help any new rider be successful in a new rider class.
Who is MCrider?
Kevin Morris is the host, owner, and operator of MCrider…he is a one-man show. All of the editing, video work, riding skills demonstrations, and graphic and web work are done by Kevin.
Kevin is a former MSF and Total Control certified instructor in texas where he has taught hundreds of riders to ride better, more confidently, and with better control. He now takes his in-person experience as a rider coach and provides regular training videos to you, to help you become a better rider as well.
MCrider's approach to online motorcycle training
Getting good information on safe motorcycle operations is a tricky business. Most new riders have friends that ride and quickly offer riding advice to their friends. Sometimes this advice is good, often times the advice from fellow riders is lacking. Kevin at MCrider goes out of his way to provide sound, proven, and professional advice that you can count on.
The only dumb question is the one not asked. New riders have questions…
- How do you use a clutch?
- Do you use both brakes or just one brake to stop?
- What is trail braking and do I need it?
- How can I improve my u-turns?
- and many, many more legitimate questions
The answers to these questions and more are found at MCrider.com.
Road Skills and Road Strategy
Most MCrider videos can be categorized as Road Skills or Road Strategy.
Road Skills are the physical skills of riding a motorcycle, emergency braking, u-turns, cornering, etc. The fundamentals of controlling your motorcycle, putting where you want it on the road when you want it to be there.
Road Strategy is equally important to a skilled rider. Road Strategy covers the mental aspects of riding, focus, lane position, following distance, and how to predict what other drivers will do.
Both Road Skills and Road Strategy are mandatory skills that every rider should develop, MCrider focuses on the core of these topics to help you improve.
A motorcycle class in the palm of your hand
Perhaps one of the most used features at MCrider is available to members of MCrider, the Field Guide. Click here for more information on becoming a Member of MCrider.
The MCrider Field Guide is literally a complete motorcycle class in the palm of your hands. There are professionally written and designed exercises that help you focus on topics such as:
- Emergency Braking
- Cornering – new rider and advanced
- Swerving
- Brake and Escape
- U-turns
- and more
Each exercise has coaching points, common mistakes and hurdles, a diagram of the exercise, and a video demonstration of the skill. With the Field Guide, any rider can find an empty, open parking lot and practice the fundamental skill that will help them become a better, safer rider.
Members also get access to the Forums where they can ask questions, seek further information, or just hang out with like-minded riders who are also looking to improve. MCrider is fortunate to have many professional riding instructors as members and they frequently answer questions and provide great advice for any rider, no matter their skill level, who is looking to improve as a rider.
