First time rider coach training

[zoom45]

I have a chance this spring to take the rider coach training with the military. I have been invovled with the course for years helping the instructors schedule the classes and set up the range etc. I can do the course for free but really don't feel I have the time to devote to it. I'm currently the Safety manager for our base and I have several rider coaches that do the courses for me(Army and air Guard). Due to deployments they always need someone to fill in plus a local organization always needs some help teaching it and I know you need to do two classes a year minimum. Would you feel comfortable doing the test on a Nomad? I did the advance rider course years ago on a Honda VLX 600. Not sure if I'm ready on the Nomad even though I have about 56,00 miles on it. Those tight turns are rough. Dan what's the trick to make it easier? What's your thoughts?
Zoom45

[dantama]

I took the advanced course on my Nomad in the first couple of months owning it after only having a dirt bike the previous 9 years. I think you'll have no problem with the type of miles you have on it.

Here's what I suggest for the type of turns you'll be doing, look where you want to go. I know, it sounds too easy, but really look. If I were on your bike in the sig pic you have, and wanted to go around that spot out from your kick stand........I'd pick it out about where you are and keep my head turned to it all the way around.

If you feel like the bike is dipping too far in and you get the put your foot down impulse, don't. Let a little bit more clutch out instead.

[nomad561]

I just finished the Basic Riders course.I got to take it for free as I was helping my Girlfriend with her Riders Coach course.
Everyone was able to use Buell Blasts for the course including the rider coaches.I think you will be using smaller more agile bikes for the course since that is what you would be teaching students to ride.
Check with the trainer and find out who is sponsoring the class and then you will see what bikes you will be riding.

[flightdoc]

Zoom,

I am a rider coach for the State of New Hampshire and am in the Army Guard. One of our safety officers just went through the rider coach training course. I think it's a good thing for you to do. You shouldn't have much difficulty taking the Nomad through the Experienced class. The way to get ready for it is to practice the exact same techniques that are taught in the basic class. Counter weight, turn your head, turn the bars. Remember, the experienced class only requires the 24 foot box not the 20 footer like the basic. I'll bet you can do the 24 right now. As a rider coach I push myself harder and have mastered the 20 footer on the Nomad. It takes alot of practice. Skills diminish quickly. Practice practice practice is the name of the game. As a rider coach, it is important to make the demos look easy and effortless. That takes practice.
Go for it.

vin

[flightdoc]

Zoom,

I forgot to mention. If you haven't taken the Basic class....better get that under your belt first.

vin

[nomad561]

It is my understranding that the MSF basic class is required before you can take the Rider Coach class.
It's not a bad idea to take the basic anyway.If for nothing else,you get discounted insurance rates.

[flightdoc]

Maybe becoming a better/safer rider is a good reason too. There have been numerous testaments as to the value of taking all the riding courses, MSF or other.
I had been riding for many years before taking the basic course and couldn't believe the things I learned.

vin