By Deon vdl.
I have always wanted to own a motorcycle and the older I got the more far fetched the idea became. Then I joined the Motomedia Team, this was the excuse I needed and I bought my first bike, an NC750X just as I turned 41 years old.
I have had only a little time in the saddle throughout my life and know how to ride, but never had the privilege of owning a bike. In my mid 30’s I bought a scooter and rode that for a few years. It was fun but it wasn’t a bike that I could hit the long roads on.
To improve my riding, I joined Suzuki South Africa on one of their very cool Suzuki Road Safety Days at Red Star Raceway. Days like these are great for riders like me that are newcomers to riding. It teaches you a lot and it is surprising how much you do and don’t do while out on the road.
I’ve also had the pleasure of joining the guys from Honda at Zwarkops for their Brunch Cruise Sunday, another must if you want to improve your riding.
Back to School.
Eventually it was time to do the one thing that nobody likes to do, go for my bike licence.
There are two options to go about doing your licence and learning what you need to know, watch Youtube videos or do it the right way and go through a riding school.
I got a hold of Anton Lombard at Prestige Bike School on the East Rand. When Foley’s wife eventually insisted that he’d had enough learner’s licences, also at forty he also used Prestige, “To try and forget all the bad habits picked up.”
Prestige offers a great package, they do everything even making your booking for you which is great as you don’t have to go through the hassle and frustration to find a booking yourself. Indeed – this is a recommendation and endorsement from our crew.
With a date and time set up I met Anton for my first lesson. I was really taken aback by the course, he makes you feel comfortable and at ease. He shows you what to expect when going for your licence while giving you a full on explanation on the do’s and don’ts.
Anton demonstrates everything first and then lets you do what was shown. He even records you and shows you what you have done wrong or where improvement is needed.
Step by step.
With my booking made and secured at the Licence Department, Anton arranged a refresher lesson with me which helped a lot.
The big day arrived. When I got there Anton was there waiting for me. and again gave me a quick rundown.
Now it was up to me. I started well but, as often happens, nerves got the better of me and I made a silly mistake and had an immediate failure.
This happens to most people and it is no reason to be discouraged, take it on the chin and do it again.
Prestige was there for me and helped me to secure another appointment.
I was pleasantly surprised. Thembisa Licence Department is one of the best I ever dealt with.
The day before my second appointment I met up with Anton for another refresher course. The day arrived and it was time for take two.
This time around I was ready and I passed. It’s a great feeling for sure and gives you that urge to get on the bike and take on the world.
Just – don’t be like us and wait until your learners nearly expire before going for your licence, it only adds to the stress.
In our opinion, when you do your licence, go through a riding school. It’s far better than Youtube videos.
Prestige Bike School has our vote of confidence. Talking to Anton about his customers, it turns out that the majority of his clients are over the age of 40.
It is never too late to throw your leg over a bike. It is never too late to enjoy the freedom of riding a bike through our beautiful country. All it takes is the first step. So, no matter how old you are, go for it, get that bike you have always wanted and you will not regret a single moment you spend on the saddle.
Cause you need a bike in your life!
