You may hear lots of people say the next step is advanced training. This can actually be counter-productive and make you a more nervous rider.
Many riders that have passed their test feel the only next step available is do complete some advanced rider training. Whether this be IAM, RoSPA or BikeSafe it is something we do not recommend for new riders.
What should be the next step for new riders that have passed their test?
In one word, MILES and lots of them. You need to gain confidence in yourself and understand the bike you have brought. You need to be comfortable on the road and let riding a bike become second nature. You shouldn't be thinking about changing gear, or corner speeds and it jut come naturally.
If you are a car driver, this will be like every time you get in a car for a drive.
When is advanced training good to look at?
After you have been riding for approximately 1-2 years we recommend then starting to look at the advanced training courses. This way you will get the most out of it.
What advanced training courses are suitable?
There are training courses run by i2i that will give you additional machine control and confidence giving exercises that we recommend to start with.
After this you can then look at the IAM, RoSPA or BikeSafe training. There are various chapters and groups of these trainers around the UK, and it is bets for you to meet with local representatives to see what you feel is best for you.
Dangers of joining an advanced riding group
You may start to over analyse your riding and therefore stop enjoying your ride and possibly stop altogether. It can destroy your self confidence as you are given feedback on areas that may not be suitable for you.
Many of the groups (we are not saying them all!) fixate on fast progression and overtakes and this style of riding is not for everyone.
You need to find an 'observer' that suits your style of riding and that can teach to your ability. This is where it becomes difficult as there is no regulation on the 'observers' and pretty much anyone can become one, even those that have only recently gained a licence themselves.
To summarise
We recommend once you have passed your test, get out there and get them miles under your belt. Go out and enjoy your ride. Find riding groups that fit your style of riding and don't try and change your riding to fit a group.
Your DVSA trained instructor that helped you gain your licence will have given you some good advice during your training. Keep practicing what you did during your training towards your licence and only progress to advanced training when you feel you are ready for the next step.
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