{"id":88866,"date":"2018-02-21T18:00:00","date_gmt":"2018-02-21T18:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/staging.sightlinemg.com\/militarytimes\/uncategorized\/2018\/02\/21\/top-10-riding-school-tips\/"},"modified":"2026-08-08T08:44:09","modified_gmt":"2026-08-08T08:44:09","slug":"top-10-riding-school-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/staging.sightlinemg.com\/militarytimes\/off-duty\/military-rider\/2018\/02\/21\/top-10-riding-school-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 riding school tips"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Now that you’ve registered for a class or a riding course, what should you know before you go? A few universal truths to ease your learning curve:
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1. Pick the right group. <\/b>\u201cFast\u201d or \u201cadvanced\u201d generally means wannabe racers or Iron Butt graduates. \u201cStreet Riders,\u201d\u201cIntermediates\u201d or \u201cGroup B\u201d will probably net you the most usable street skills and will be easier to negotiate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Change your oil and filter. <\/b>Your engine will be run hard this session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Check your suspension.<\/b> If you\u2019re not sure, return it to stock settings and start with a clean slate. You\u2019ll get help at the class.
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4. Inspect your chain (if you have one), brakes and tires.<\/b> Keep psi at recommended factory settings. Replace brake fluid before the class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Bring proper riding apparel.<\/b> Most schools require leather or textile garments with armor. No holes in your gear, and the helmet must be DOT all the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Pack a decent tool kit. <\/b>A large flat-head screwdriver and pliers are golden, as are duct and electrical tape. Extra gas couldn\u2019t hurt, either<\/p>\n\n\n\t