Ride Forever training sharpens winter riding skills

Ride Forever training sharpens winter riding skills

New Zealand can be a testing place for motorcycle riders in winter. Weather conditions often vary enormously across the country. A day that might see perfect riding conditions in Auckland can serve up blizzards and freezing temperatures in the deep south. But, wherever you ride in winter, road conditions can make heavy demands on riding skills, technique, knowledge and experience.

That’s where ACC is aiming to make a difference, with its NZTA-approved Ride Forever national training programme.

“Whether you’re a regular rider during winter, or you tend to leave your bike in the garage when the weather’s at its worst, now’s the perfect time to sharpen your riding skills,” said ACC’s Motorcycle Programme Manager Dave Keilty.

“A Ride Forever course can help you be better prepared for the challenges of winter riding. Or you can use this time to check and improve your skills, so when summer comes along you’re sharper and more confident from day one.”

ACC-funded Ride Forever training courses are available across New Zealand and cater for all levels, from the learner to the veteran and right through to expert riders, who can have a course tailored to their specific needs.

The subsidised courses have already proven a hit with motorcyclists, and Mr Keilty is aiming to dramatically increase the take-up. “Nearly 2,500 riders attended ACC’s Ride Forever courses in the past twelve months. Next year we are aiming to put through five thousand riders.”

Motorcycling is growing in popularity, but with more riders comes the potential for more accidents. Last year 43 riders died as the result of a motorcycle crash with over a thousand being injured, costing $104million in ACC claims.

Mr Keilty says advanced, professional training can go a long way to reducing those numbers.

“Regardless of your current skills, ability or experience, there’s always something you can learn to help you handle your bike better and cope more confidently with whatever the road throws at you.”

Ride Forever instructor Chris Smith, also a renowned trainer and stunt double for major Hollywood productions, said he wants to do his bit to reduce risks.

“The work I value most is teaching riders how to stay alive. That’s my true passion out on the road. If I can save some lives by doing what I do – I’m going to keep doing it.”

Ride Forever training costs from just $20 for a full day and can be booked online via the Ride Forever website: www.rideforever.co.nz

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