The riding season is here, and while many are planning their rides for the summer, figuring out their gear needs, and coordinating schedules, there’s one thing that may not be on the list but should be—and that’s training.

It’s always been wise for riders of all skill levels to continue their motorcycle training. Honing our skills, particularly in adventure motorcycling, adds to both the fun and safety of our experiences. Whether it’s an intro to ADV riding, a course on advanced sand riding or hill climbing, crossing borders and prepping for another continent or an RTW, or a motorcycle-specific first-aid course, there’s always room to add new “tools” to the motorcyclist’s skill set.

With the increasing enthusiasm for adventure and dual-sport riding, training options and availability are rapidly proliferating. While the old standbys are still plying their trade, many new schools have cropped up along with new and more innovative types of courses specific to our genres of riding. And it’s only getting better! In the past, you might have needed to budget for and carve out a week or more to get training, but industry growth has prompted far more options, including there potentially being schools and classes much closer to where you live. Add to that the ever-growing calendar of adventure motorcycle rallies and events that have training seminars baked into their schedules, and it’s getting to the point where there’s no excuse not to get trained.

While we’re bursting with plans for a summer of awesome adventures, it’s important to remember that there’s always more to learn, to perfect, and master. And as the industry grows, there are far more opportunities to gain that knowledge than ever before.

So, while you’re getting your gear ready, and mapping out those routes, get online and search for nearby training that’ll add to your skills before tackling those big adventures—you’ll be more confident, a safer rider, and have much more fun if you do.

Is there a time when that little bit of extra training saved your bacon? Send us an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and let us know.