Testimonials
Don't just take our word for it, read what our students think of us.
The photos on the right of the page are the most recent students to pass their practical test with Ride-Right.
....well here I am writing this testimonial, would I ever get here...mmmmm...it did feel at times the prospect rather remote! Doubts aside, is was the twin approach of Gav and Les that got me through the test and first time pass too for my part 2 (yes it surprised me but Gav's pep talked focused one's thoughts on the task ahead) . Well it has been a journey and still remember meeting the team for the very first time, Bill and Mark taking us through the CBT, getting our leg over for the first time and wey hey off we go...what fun.
Then the day Gav took me on the big bike 500 cc I thought no way, but we did and had a fantastic run out in the countryside gaining confidence.
For me it was a journey to achieve this goal, you kept me safe, drummed in the correct way, and the experience has raised my confidence making myself a much better road user...The best bit hearing Les obviously saying well done and magic...magic was by working hard, listening; more listening & even more listening, your determination to stick with me, your critical observation and fluent and flamboyant use of feedback language...so if you want to really learn safe and correct way of riding a motorcycle then you're at the place to go to...
Cheers, thanks and see you at the ride outs!!!Richard
A sincere thanks to all the guys at RideRight for the excellent tuition which led to a module 2 pass on 17/09/09 Special thanks to Gav, Les and Bill for all the training from my CBT to module 1 pass and module 2 pass I would advise any person who is intending to get their bike licence should go with RideRight
John and his orange varadero
Good afternoon Gav and Les, it's taken me a week and another quick trip to Spain to get round to writing this but I hadn't forgotten - how could I?
Well all I want to say is thank you both very much for the very professional tuition, I'm very grateful for your time, effort and the excellent advice you gave me. From the unit, I went straight to Westgate Road and ordered my Monster (it was always gonna be a Ducati Gav!) and I expect delivery in the next two weeks so will pop round for a cuppa!! All the best and keep up the hard work, there's a lot of people thankful to you both for getting them through the new test.
... And for all those reading this looking for inspiration, you will get through it, the lads are right it is nothing to worry about, honestly !!
Cheers,
Graham
Hi Gav & Les
I just wanted to say what a pleasure and an honour it was to have been instructed by both of you. I thankfully passed my practical test today with zero rider faults and this is testament to the quality of the instruction that both of you deliver on a daily basis to all of your students. It was a real journey for me and even though you worked me hard, we had some great laughs along the way. As a father of 3 young children my priority is to enjoy riding and to ride safely and I have absolutely no doubt that the skills you have given me have made me a safe and competent rider.
As far as I am concerned the quality of the instructors at Ride-Right is second to none and if any of my kids want to learn to ride - which is inevitable now! - I will be sending them down to you to be taught to "Ride-Right". Please also pass on my thanks to "Big Bad Bill" for the fantastic instruction on my CBT also. He laid a solid foundation for me to build on when I started my big bike lessons. Keep in touch and let me know when the ride outs are on as I would love to ride with you on them. I pass by regularly so I won't be a stranger and give my best to your lovely wife Ena....I don't know how she puts up with you!
All the Best
Super Mario
Well, what can I say these guys are the best in Newcastle!!
I have always loved bikes but never actually been on one ever until I started with Ride Right. I can't even ride a mountain bike!! Their challenge was here!! Their dedication and commitment to you is second to none from start (CBT) to finish (direct access). We had great fun but also working hard at the same time. I passed 1st time and I cannot believe I have achieved this massive achievement in my life which I would not have been able to do without them. Anyone wanting to learn to ride a bike you need to call these guys and get yourself booked in and learn the ride right way.
I'm quite short, so the guys went and bought a lowered seat for me! That's customer service for you!
Thank you, especially Les for teaching me so much!! (hope you hair grows back soon!!) ha ha ha
Thank you all of you, Joanne xx
PS -Please put me down for the rides out as I can't wait!!
I had passed my CBT and Theory test through another training centre however they had said they weren't happy teaching me on the bigger bikes for Direct Access. That wasn't an issue for the team at Ride-Right who took on the challenge of teaching me to ride the 500. Thanks to their excellent teaching skills and endless patience I made it through.
Their commitment to getting students' through the test is second to none and the hours they work to fit in with customer availability are incredible. If you relax, enjoy and listen to their advice you will easily get through the test as their standard is setting you up to ride for life not just get you through the test. For those shorter people like me you will love the new lowered seat!
Thanks for all your hard work guys.
Lorraine
When I first came across the Ride Right site I was impressed with the genuine testimonials. They described a friendly and professional outfit and one that seemed to be focused on really teaching you to ride. I was right to be impressed - they are all of that. Over the previous two years I had experienced the teaching at two other schools with both CBT and DAS lessons and still didn't feel that I had really been taught anything, but even with one failed test behind me (including 11 minors!) I was determined to try again - besides, having got to the age of 55 time was slipping by! I decided to try one last time, I booked a week off work and rang Ride Right. That was definitely the best thing I could have done.
Gav is an absolute genius, he needed to be, even he admitted I was a challenge! His teaching was thorough, consistent and determined - as he said, I am teaching you to a standard above that required by the test. That may have been a little psychology but by the time I got to Friday, the day of my test, I knew exactly what I had to do. As long as I rode the way Gavin had taught me I would get through. I wasn't even really nervous - some pre test butterflies and very focused maybe, but when you have been taught properly and comprehensively, that delivers a kind of calm to you. Once I was on the bike that was exactly how it was. I passed, which with my history, is a minor miracle. I honestly believe that Ride Right's tuition is in a league above everyone else. If you are reading this then go ahead and book the lessons - if you can be taught by the very best why bother with any of the rest!
Thanks Gav,
Steve.
Save Time, Money and Pass First Time with Ride-Right
I didn't go to Ride-Right first, an expensive mistake. I was new to biking and a nervous wreck. I went to a different riding school and did my CBT and failed!?! I then had three further lessons with them and I still had not completed my CBT. My instructor didn't seem to be committed to my making any progress at all. My son recommended Ride Right - smart kid. The Team are thoroughly professional and it shows. Your confidence grows from knowing you are with the best.
The team at Ride-Right could see where I was going wrong immediately and got me through my CBT. No dramas! From there on they worked on my lack of confidence and trained me to such a high-standard that when the time came for my test I had NO NERVES at all. I was calm and confident from the moment Gav told me that I was ready for my test. It doesn't sound like much but when Gav says you are ready - you are. You can, and most likely will pass first time - I did.
So Thanks, first of all to Bill for giving me the confidence to get on a "big" bike after just two lessons. To Alan, Les and Gav, who are as skilled as surgeons, thank you again for revealing a part of me which I never knew existed, the calm, cool, confident Dave. Read-on and you might get a head start from some of my hard learned lessons.
1) Listen- carefully 2) Try to do exactly as you are told 3) Ride Gav's way not the way you think you should - this is the fastest way to pass your test 4) If you make a mistake try not to make it twice 5) If the light turns yellow remember - If there's time to go, there's time to stop. 6) What's the rush? Doing things quickly leads to mistakes 7) Arrive in the right gear and the right speed 8) CHILL - enjoy it - learning is hard work only if you let it be As my experience shows if you want to ride right go to Ride Right.
All the best.
Dave
Just wanted to say a massive thank you to everyone at ride-right for what you have helped me achieve!
Huge thanks to Bill for helping me gain the confidence required to move up the ladder to the 500cc machine, learning good clutch control along the way ;-). It is clear looking back just how important those early lessons were.
Thanks Gav for the 'back to basics talk' and my first pillion ride on a motorcycle, I did listen, I promise! (and I cant help the eyes).
Thanks to Les and the imaginary mini-roundabout, magic.
Thanks Alan for all your patience and the help with the show me tell me bit, the magical mystery tours were great fun too.
I can honestly say I couldn't have picked any where better to do my direct access and I'm sure you're all pleased I chose you ??????
See you all soon, hopefully Ill be on a nice gixxer, It can only get easier for you now you've taught me to 'ride-right'.
Adam
If you are reading this testimonial you are on the right site so look no further. I have known Gav for 20 years, serving together in the Army, and it is because of this that I knew there would be no better place to go if I wanted to learn to ride a bike.
The combined efforts of Gav, Les and Alan took me from complete novice to full bike licence in less than 2 months. No mean feat in itself as I made quite a few mistakes. 'Understatement'.
The instructors are diligent, enthusiastic, patient and live and breath the job. Nothing phases them which makes the whole learning experience enjoyable. There's no heirs and graces about them and the banter is great. You receive a warm welcome every time and there is a friendly feel about the whole place. Having passed my test I look forward to meeting up again on the ride outs. They not only taught me to ride a bike safely, but offered me advice on kit, insurance and my first bike. The whole deal.
Gav, Les and Alan- thanks very much.
Nobby
I can't thank you boys at Ride Right enough- you turned a complete novice into, well, someone who could ride a motorbike!
It all started with the CBT- I was a bit nervous as I had no idea what to expect, but Les put us all at ease and went through things in a calm and positive manner, making us believe that we could do it. The ride out was great and I passed without a problem at all after the excellent training provided. It was at that point when all the dreaming and thinking about riding a motorbike became a reality, and something that I really wanted to do.
Next was the biggie- the DAS (Direct Access Scheme). Gav was my instructor and I quickly got to learn that if you listen to him and do everything that he tells you to, you will be fine. It was sometimes hard work (my fault, not Gav's!), but every lesson I improved and I understood why he kept telling me the same things over and over again. It's so that the things like "approaching a junction at the right speed and in the right gear", making sure you "carry out your lifesaver!", and making sure you "don't doddle", all became second nature to me while I was riding- making me a good, safe rider.
Test day came (in the p*ssing rain I might add!) and thanks to the excellent training I had been given, I managed to keep myself calm and things just came naturally. I passed with no minors and have to give Les and Gav all the credit- superb instructors and good lads. Now I'm onto my second bike and loving every minute of it!
Cheers lads- "no dramas!"
Nigel
I've looked forward to each lesson while learning with you guys, and thoroughly enjoyed each and every one. you've worked me hard, and picked up on every daft move I've made, and did everything possible to prepare me for my test, so much so that, when the big day came around, the test was a doddle!
Now I'm on the road and I'm full of confidence because I know I've been taught by the best! so cheers guys, thank you so much for everything.
Paul.
Gav/Les
Just another quick note to say thanks very much for all of your expert training. To get me through my test in 6 weeks was a miracle. I appreciated the no nonsense approach and plain talking. It wasn't too often that I made the same mistake twice!
I look forward to many years of safe riding and as many ride outs as possible.
I will miss the weekly crack but am honoured to have had the opportunity to meet a couple of great guys.
Thanks again
Lee Elliott
Just like me....You've thought about it...You've found this site...and your looking for the right reasons to choose Ride-Right. My reasons were to pass my CBT and go straight on to DAS with a team that could motivate and train me in equal measure.
My 1st impressionof the Instructors (Gav & Les) was that these guys live eat and breath motorcycling, they don'tmince words or waste time. Tutoring new Bikers (orretraining old ones) istheir living and their whole approach filled me with confidence. It was over 20 years since I last rode a bike and like a lot of 40 something year olds it was time for me to take the "new" tests and get back out there.
The day spent on CBT was a long one and covered every aspect of basic safety and bike control. If you pay attention and do what the guys tell you to do you'll sail through it and love every minute too. The training ground is perfect and the machines all very new indeed. Stage one over....NO DRAMA's !!!
Next stage DAS on a "Big Bike". I opted for 10 lessons which gave me around 20 hours of instruction out on the roads and I could feel my confidence building and my ability improving on each lesson.It's a blend of hard work and great pleasure in a mix of 50/50 being out on the bigger bikes. Gav and Les work you hard and very quickly identify the areas that need working on...and on ...and on...until finally you do it the right way....the only way..THE Ride-Right way without a 2nd thought.
Phrases such as "Set the bike up" , INDICATORS !!. "2nd Lifesaver" "THINK ABOUT THE APPROACH" will soon start to become very familiar.
Don't forget these guys have an intimate local knowledge of the routes and examiners, do it their way, don't fight it, listen in and apply what they tell you and soon you'll be as familiar with the test routes as your are your own face.
I'm writing this around 8 weeks after 1st getting on the 500cc bike and THE DAY AFTER PASSING my practical....1ST TIME PASS and with only 3 minors. As you can imagine I'm delighted so were the guys..and the 3 other students that passed yesterday too. If you really want to pass your CBT or DAS then look no further, pick up the phone and call 'em now. you won't be sorry.
In summary (and context) I arrived at Ride-Right as achimp driving a monkeys car and left as a SilverBack Gorilla riding my 750cc ...and if I can YOU certainly can too. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING GUYS...PASSING WAS THE GOAL..... AND YOU (WE) DID IT.
See you on the Ride Out, Cheers
Simon (aka. Wanker)
Gav and Les at Ride-Right gave me the best possible start to motorcycle riding that I could ever have hoped for. They taught me how to ride safely and correctly and furthered my passion to become a good motorcyclist in all areas. Once you've passed your test (which you will if you listen to these guys!), it doesn't just stop there. The student/teacher relationship develops into friendship, countless cups of tea and the option to join future ride-outs with other past pupils.
I recommend Ride-Right 200% for all your motorcycling training needs.
JP
I got a KMX 125 when I was 15, this served only to be riden into the ground over the local pit for a year or two. Its been another 15 years since I'd ridden again. I had often wanted a road bike but had never actually gotten round to it and funds had always been short. Then one day I threw caution to the wind and browsed the web. I came across Ride-Right, had a read of their web page and decided to send an email. Gav contacted me practically straight away and we booked a day for my CBT. Gav told me to bring some decent clothing and a sense of humor.
The day was thoroughly enjoyable, everything was explained in an understandable and laid back manner and the riding was all down to us. The ride around at the end of the day was fantastic, it may have only been a 125cc but just to be out on the open roads, without a metal box enclosing me and with the sun shining down was bliss. I quickly booked lessons for the DAS and began riding the CB 500. I was at first nervous as the biggest bike I had ever ridden was a 250 and this was twice the capacity, I feared it would race off down the road on the back wheel with me hanging on for dear life. Gladly, it didn't. The bike was a easy to control and was a joy to ride, I looked forward to every lesson and was thoroughly disappointed when the wind was howling and the rain lashing down as I knew I would be unable to take my lesson.
Gav's teaching style can be very scary at times as you may have doubts about your abilities but he certainly doesn't. He knows exactly what you are capable of and pushes you to achieve it. Once you have done it you wonder what it was you were so afraid of in the first place.
About ten lessons later it was test time. If you've done this in a car you'll know all about how scary it can be. It isn't that bad on a bike, you don't have the examiner breathing down your neck watching your every move. They are of course observing you, but if you remain calm and put what Gav has taught you into practice you will fly through it as all of his students do. If you wish to be taught how to ride a bike by someone who knows about bikes and enjoys riding them then this is the place you should come to. I had a fantastic time here and in a way was rather disappointed when I passed, I missed my lessons after that. However I could not refrain from buying my own bike regardless of my monetary situation and am now the proud owner of a Suzuki Bandit 600.
Great stuff. Thank you to Gav and Les for the thoroughly enjoyable time I had.
Paul
What a grand day out. Who would have thought in April last year I would be 'wizzing' around the countryside on my second ride-out. I found Ride-Right on the internet and was contacted straight away after sending an e-mail, so Ibooked the startof my mid life crisis.
Never having been on a motorbike I was nervous that Saturday morning but Gav and Les put me at ease with their banter. Having passed the C.B.T. I knew they would be the ones to get me through the big bike test so I started the D.A.S., gradually moving onto the 'big' bike. All the way through my training they were both professional but also with great senses of humour. During the training I had good and bad days with plenty of bollickings but they were all deserved and kept me working hard.If I never have to do another u turn it will be too soon - remember those Gav? The day of my test I was nervous, but I felt fully prepared because of my training which takes in all the test routes. They managed to get me from being very very shakey on my C.B.T. through to passing my big bike test first time. Proving their methods work, with a complete novice, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.
As well as gaining a bike licence I have also gained two friends in Gav and Les, and friends in the people who have also learnt through Ride-Right.
And by the way Les I won't tell you again it is 'MR.' Wanker to you!
Looking forward to the next Ride-Right ride out.
Noel
The plan was to obtain my Direct Access Licence before the summer to hopefully enjoy a motorbike touring holiday. After looking at many local schools I plumped for Ride-Right, as they looked a professional organisation with a sensible approach to progressing to DAS test standard.
Having never been on a motorbike before it was with trepidation that I booked my CBT, however my nerves were put at ease with Gav and Les. They worked us hard, but were very patient and understanding and also willing to have some banter when the moment was right. It was a busy day with lots to take in, but was directed at a good pace that enabled everything to be absorbed
Now having passed my DAS test, it is surprising to look back at how far I've rogressed, but that is through the attentive and diligent work of Gav and Les. Gav always says that he gets his students beyond test standard and that makes me thankful of not choosing other schools who seemed to wrongly throw their students in at the deep end. Ride-Right's success rate is testimony of this approach.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Ride-Right to potential students.
Cheers,
John
With the kids growing up, playing more sports and wanting shipped here and there, me needingthe carfor work, there was a ever growing need for a second car. So when my mate said he was going to go for his bike test I thought mmmm! this would be the ideal solution plus have a bit fun in the process.
So quickly beginning the search for instruction,wecame across the Ride-Right web site and thought this has everything we need. Booking was easy, a simple phone call and the CBT was arranged.
On arrival we met Bill, Gav and Les, having had bikes before (not for awhile though) I was still a bit nervy but the friendly atmosphere and excellent banter soon puts you at ease. Training for the CBT was well organised and explained thoroughly. Thanks for that Bill.
With a CBT pass under our belts we got down to the nitty gritty of the practical test, wanting to do Direct Access I was passed onto Gav. Lessons started and it was hard going at first but with gav behind you,you soon known exactly what you are doing wrong (eh Gav!!!). But with hard work (and I can't stress enough) LISTEN to what you are being told and you also will have a pass under your belt.
Thanks for everything Gav,
Mark
I looked around and spoke to the other schools in the Newcastle area before finally taking the plunge and going with Ride-Right. I was impressed by their friendly and professional attitude, plus their pass rate is second to none.
I started with them as a complete beginner doing the CBT and then advanced on to the DAS course. I've now passed the test and can ride any size bike! During my training I rode three different size bikes and they were all in excellent condition.
They do train you hard but as Gav will tell you this for your own benefit! It's just what you need to pass the test, they take you beyond test standard which adds to your confidence when it comes to test day.
I'm so glad I managed to find these guys, they are not in it for the money they are simply passionate about making you a good safe rider. I would not hesitate in recommending them to anyone!
Justin
I had my CBT and wanted to pass DAS before the new regulations came in. Ride-Right were recommended to me by a bike mechanic so I decided to give them a bash. My first contact was through email and I was impressed by the speedy and informative reply. It was a few months before I could afford to start lessons but Gav remembered me from my email and made me feel welcome straight away.
You can tell the quality of a school by their equipment and Ride-Right are no exception. All of the bikes are clean and well maintained, my CBR 500 was 2 years old but rode like new and the maintenance schedule is on the wall for all to see. I had my own gear but the stuff that they provide is high quality and again is all in good condition.
Its a bit nerve-racking going on your first lesson but the instructor was friendly and didn't make me feel like I was under pressure. Throughout the lesson I got valuable feedback on where I needed to improve and was not asked to attempt anything until it had been demonstrated to me. On the areas where I was struggling the instructor would take the lead and talk me through the maneuver, always providing the right level of encouragement.
In just 3 lessons my confidence was massively improved and instead of being scared of the bike I was enjoying the ride out. I feel like I had control of the bike rather than the other way round!
You can't teach an old dog new tricks and we all make mistakes, me more than most! The instructor was patient and never did or said anything to damage my confidence.
There are plenty of schools which can get you through your test, but if you want to become a safe, competent and confident rider then I would have no hesitation in recommending Ride-Right.
Gavs an instructor at Ride-Right
teaching those of us who cannot Ride-Right
We totter around
Scared of hitting the ground
Thinking "I'll never find the right clutch bite"
Our Gav has a saying, which all of us know
Right speed, right gear, right time - not too slow!
The bike must be set-up
Or perhaps you'll slip up
What gear are you in - don't you know?
Cheers, Nigel
Being away from bikes for 25 years I decided to take the plunge again and buy myself a little 125 runaround. Due to the fact that I had never passed my test, I had to go through CBT to make sure I had the required paperwork and skills needed to be safe & legal, so I set about looking for a suitable local training school. Ride-Right was the most local and easiest to contact. I had rung a couple, but Gav answered my voicemail request the same Sunday. Great!
I was booked in for the following Sunday, and feeling a little apprehensive (25 years is a long time out of the saddle) I made my way in. I was greeted by both Gav and Les who immediately made me feel at home. It was a very relaxed atmosphere with plenty of reassuring banter passing between the assembled group. There was a mixture of old and new riders and we set about sharing our previous (if any) experiences over a coffee before being fully briefed on the day ahead.
CBT gives a good understanding of what is required to ride safely and the long day passed very quickly. I had good, honest feedback from the instructors. The mix of classroom, test riding and finally road riding really helped me to get back into riding motorcycles, and on that day, I made a decision to carry my training further and do DAS (Direct Access).
I had never ridden a 'big bike' before, and Gav gave me a thorough overview of the Honda CB500 bikes they use. I was kitted out with an earpiece and off we went. I was confident that Gav would give me an honest appraisal of my riding, and an indication as to how many lessons I would need to get to test standard. Gav was constantly feeding back my progress - what I was doing well and of course my mistakes. The lessons were 2 hours long, but seemed to pass very quickly. The instructors always prefer to do their training one on one, which allows them to focus completely on each pupil in turn, but occasionally, we would pair up. This proved very useful, as it gave me an understanding of where my riding was compared to other pupils. This was sometimes a huge confidence boost!
The routes we covered were varied, but followed the test routes as closely as possible, so by the time my test came around, I had a good knowledge of the roads and any particular 'problem' areas.
My test came around after around 12 lessons, and I was given a clear overview of what the test involved from start to finish. The elation of passing the test was amazing! Everyone at the school were genuinely happy that they had helped me through the process and each rider that passes their test had a picture taken and displayed on the office wall.
I have made some good friends at Ride-Right. They have a passion and belief in what they do, as well as a total passion for motorcycling in general. They want to genuinely share their love of bikes, and want to help as many people as possible realise their dreams to enjoy biking!
Give them a try, you won't be disappointed.
Russell
Training, well my fist mistake, for my CBT I went to the first school I got an answer from on the net.
Sure enough I passed first go. (well don't everyone?!!)
At the end of the day cbt course, myself and others only got around 45min on the road. I now know it should have been two hours minimum.
Then when I said I wanted to do my D.A.S. Oh no six week waiting list. Right I thought I'm going elsware for further training.
Thank god I found Ride-Right. Lesson one started the next week.
Les and Gav were shocked I couldn't ride to save my life. I thought it was just my age. At 56 I thought I might be past it. No, Gav said who did your C.B.T. because you have been taught nothing.
Gav put me on the 125cc bike and started from scratch. He was very patient with my ineptitude, In no time at all he had me riding the 500 and feeling confident. Yes, I still made mistakes, even dropped the bike on a u turn.
Gav kept plugging away and slowly I got a lot better. My confidence was growing quickly and I found myself really enjoying my lessons with Gav.
The training wastop class. The instructors very professional, and always a warm welcome with hot coffee in the office.
OH! YES A FIRST TIME PASS WITH ONLY ONE MINOR. Not bad for an oldie like me.
Keith
Bill, Just wanna say a massive thank you. I really do appreciate the fact that you came back and spent more time with me when I know you didn't have to. I went away with a massive smile on my face and I couldn't have done it without your patience and support. When I do pass me test (and I will) and get my bike, it will all be down to you because you helped me to get past that massive first hurdle.
I hope you realise that without knowing it you have now changed my life and have helped open up a whole new chapter in it.
Thanks so much Bill, I hope you realise that what you do does have a massive positive impact on people and you do make a difference.
Kaz (this is what my biker mates have christened me!)
