1st Gear Motorcycle Training

Fantastic experience: Just finished the course. I was registered in Richmond, and because of lack of people signed up, I was sent to their Coquitlam location. I'm extremely pleased at how things worked out. Our group had Adam and Mel as the instructors with a brief cameo from Patrick, and some surfer looking dude(If you know, you know). The instruction was extremely concise with explanations about why we do things this way in the lot, and how they apply to on road situations. We didn't just learn stuff to earn the MSA. They go beyond that, so that when we venture out on the road, we are safe. IF you are looking at starting to ride, I have no hesitation in recommending 1st Gear Motorcycle Training to anyone. In fact, I would insist that they take the course from them. Be prepared. The corrections can be blunt. Your safety is on the line, so listen to what they have to say. I wasn't the star here, far from it, but I learned from their feedback and plan on continue to practice what they taught us.

Fantastic experience: Well organized course with knowledgeable, friendly, and professional instructors. Learned the basics and got my full motorcycle licence in less than 2 months thanks to them! Highly recommend.

Positive experience: Wife signed up for training. Got intimidated on the first day. Fell and got injured. Rested and waited for follow up to nothing available. Cannot switch to private class either. P.S. - After a few emails with the business. Confirmed a partial refund was issued a few months after the class date under a different label. So the rating was moved up.

Fantastic experience: Passed my ICBC road test today after doing my course 3 months ago. So thankful the team in Langley! From start to finish the experience was fantastic. Couldn’t ask for a better instructor than Adam! With the support, encouragement, and training given, I now have the confidence, and knowledge that got me my full license. Can’t say thank you enough! #bikerlife ️

Fantastic experience: I couldn't be happier with the experience. I trained with Lee for both the MST and road test, and I passed both ICBC tests on my first try. Though I have prior riding experience in India, but riding in Canada is different. Lee helped me adjust to those differences with his clear and supportive teaching. He made everything easy to understand, and I felt confident going into the tests.

Fantastic experience: I recently had some refresher lessons via Lee at 1st Gear. The experience was great - Lee was flexible, patient and gave me the training I needed to get on the road. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Excellent training course! As someone that’s never even touched a motorcycle; Lee helped me develop confidence and skills behind the bike. If I could rate 10/5 stars I would!!

Fantastic experience: Lee, Mat and Brian are amazing!! Everyone is amazing there trust me!! So responsible and give you so many details. They answer all the questions you have about motorcycle and riding skills.

Fantastic experience: Thanks Instructor Noah for your MST Prep work with Zach!! He passed his MST without issue!! And we were extremely pleased with the laid back, stress free style of instruction you incorporate… We look forward to future courses and instruction from the friendly, accommodating staff at 1st Gear!!

Fantastic experience: Had a great experience from start to finish. Following the online course was ICBC’s class lecture where Lee put the fear of why am I doing this in me, then the first practical session taught the basics with the follow up teaching the skills needed to pass the MST. The road rides gave experience in traffic and the Road Test Prep proved invaluable. I took my first Road Test in Burnaby after twenty hours of combined class, group and self riding. The test was only 45min, beginning with demonstrating the bike’s controls, then out into traffic, onto the highway, back onto surface streets with hill starts, through residential streets with parks, schools, U-turns and back to the office for a reverse park. I don’t think I would have passed the test on the first go with only one negative comment, (take left turns wider) and the positive comment of “good speed control” if I hadn’t taken the Safety Rider course and the Road Test Prep.

Fantastic experience: Had a great experience at 1st gear. From customer service, the curriculum, to the instructors. I had Lee, Mel, and Kiefer. Lee was really encouraging, personable and animated which made learning a lot more enjoyable. He asked for a lot of feedback in order to fine tune and ensure his program met our expectations. Kiefer taught our class the first day and went through everything in great detail. Very informative and professional. you can tell he really enjoys what he does. I took a spill and first thing he did was make sure I was okay and my gear wasn't wrecked before he really looked at the bike. Mel was great, she is very charismatic, encouraging, and personable. She was the instructor who tested me for the mst and she made sure the instructions were clear and made sure we all knew what was expected. I would recommend 1st gear to everyone interested in learning to ride.

Fantastic experience: Do you want to be a safe motorcycle rider? Do you want to be a safer driver, overall? Take their course, you will be safer on the road for you and for others. Most of us have been driving for years, and with that many years, you develop bad (horrible, really) habits. You sit in a 3000 lb car, and you feel safe, but what about those around you? Pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and other drivers? 1st Gear teaches you to recognize the bad habits and reset you by reminding you of the potential hazards and how to anticipate them. Adam and Kiefer are great instructors. They are grounded and realistic.

Fantastic experience: 1st Gear is a great choice for motorcycle training. The instructors were professional and made the experience fun from start to finish. They also made the administrative side of the process very simple and were prompt to reply to inquiries. Great experience, I would highly recommend their program to any new or experienced rider.

Fantastic experience: Jason Ross is a fantastic teacher. He’s smart, thorough, and will do everything to ensure you understand every component of the bike, and to make sure you understand the proper safety measures when riding. I’ve been riding for 20 years, and I still came out with a handful of tricks I learned that I didn’t know previously. Thank you guys for the opportunity! I had an absolute blast in the course, and I can’t wait to participate in some road rides!!

Fantastic experience: I have previous experience riding bikes, mopeds, and motorcycles. Still learned a ton of information and skills that my previous years of experience never gave me. If you plan on riding a motorcycle, don't even bother unless you plan on taking a course as well.

Fantastic experience: Both of my daughters took this course and now have their motorcycle licenses. Lee and Ted were the instructors and were extremely patient and generous with their time. It was a safe environment to learn and very supportive.

Fantastic experience: Great people to learn from and just a really well run outfit. I would recommend to anyone wanting to learn to ride to book with 1st Gear!

Fantastic experience: I recently completed the motorcycle training course at 1st Gear Motorcycle, and I couldn't be more impressed with the entire experience. From start to finish, the program exceeded my expectations in every way. **Exceptional Instructors:** The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about teaching. They provided clear, step-by-step instructions and personalized feedback, ensuring that every student felt comfortable and confident. Their dedication to safety and skill development was evident throughout the course. **Top-Notch Facilities:** The training facilities were excellent, with a variety of practice areas that simulated real road conditions. The bikes provided were in great condition, and all necessary safety gear was supplied. **Supportive Environment:** The learning environment was supportive and encouraging. The instructors fostered a positive atmosphere, where questions were welcomed and mistakes were treated as learning opportunities. This made the entire process enjoyable and stress-free. **Great Value:** Considering the high quality of instruction and resources provided, the course was an outstanding value. I feel much more confident and prepared to ride safely on the road. Overall, I highly recommend 1st Gear to anyone looking to learn how to ride a motorcycle or improve their existing skills. The training I received was top-notch, and I am extremely satisfied with my experience. Thank you, 1st Gear - Team, for helping me become a better, safer rider!

Fantastic experience: Went to Coquitlam today for the skills test , the instructors was Mel and Lee . They are both super nice and you feel welcome right away. New or somewhat experience rider does not matter, you will learn stuff, they know what they are talking about. Mel was the instructor taking care of the skills test and you wont feel any stress or nervousness to do the test with her. Super nice and professional and she makes sure that you have a great and fun experience doing the training and test. 5 stars for 1st Gear and their staff for sure !

Fantastic experience: As someone who has always been fascinated by motorcycles but hesitant to ride (just learned riding bicycle 2 yrs ago mind you), enrolling in this motorcycle riding course was a transformative experience. From the moment I revved the engine on day one, I knew I was in for an exhilarating journey. The course was well structured, starting with Lee's video and lecture, followed by weekend basic mechanics and gradually progressing to more complex maneuvers and drills. The instructors, Ted & Patrick, Mat & Melanie, were knowledgeable and patient, providing clear guidance and support every step of the way. They emphasized safety above all, eventually preparing us for those split second moments that we might encounter, and ensuring that we understood the importance of protective gear and proper riding habits. Their passion for riding was infectious, making each lesson not just educational but also incredibly fun. The highlight for me was that I failed the MST test and the boys guided me patiently upon retaking them. Really appreciate it. Now I haven't gone through the 3 road sessions yet, as I will begin to get the insurance and plate; but I have a good feeling about them. And as from someone whose a complete novice, this course really help me alot and will also equip you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to ride safely and joyfully. Cheers!

Fantastic experience: Very knowledgeable staff, Great safety learning experience, bikes are in great shape and well maintained! Would highly recommend this training for beginners and experienced riders!

Fantastic experience: I first booked MST preparation as I have ridden motorbikes before however I found out that I am rusty and passing MST would be not as easy for me as I expected. Ted was so helpful and he gave his best in a limited time and boosted my confidence as I have huge test anxiety. I really like how Ted was teaching me so I decided to do a full safety course and learned a lot. Best investment decision! Ted and Keef were my instructors for two days and both were great instructors. I loved the fact that they emphasized a lot on safety and they pointed out both stupid riders/drivers and their poor riding habits without any sugar coating which i loved about. Lee taught himself in theory class and videos were so beneficial. I am looking forward to buy my motorbike and will prepare by road tests with them soon.

Fantastic experience: 5/5 stars. Would recommend to anyone looking to learn to ride. Matt, Todd, Noah and Lee all excellent instructors. You get lots of on bike training and practice.

Fantastic experience: I had Matt, Noah and Ted as my instructors and I absolutely couldn’t be happier with the time I spent with them. I learned so much in such a short period of time and am excited to hit the road. I 100% recommend 1st gear for new riders or anyone interested in getting into it.

Fantastic experience: Had my class over the weekend and got great instructions from Lee, Ted, Noah and Patrick. The practical exercises and drills progressed nicely throughout the day, building on some foundations. Lee & Ted's focus on safety and building good riding habits made me really feel that 1st gear isn't in the market to just take your money and sign off on anyone's MST/MSA. Noah and Patrick gave really good advice to the class to tidy up some skills during our drills all while maintaining the chill atmosphere/vibe. All of them are knowledgeable and passionate about the sport, just don't ask them to do the math on how many years of experience they have combined. The range of available motorcycles was really great too as everyone in the class was able to try out many different styles of riding and really find what they're looking for without committing to something blindly. I look forward to continuing on with the sessions afterwards to gain more confidence on the road in preparation for a road test and will recommend this school to anyone looking to get into riding.

Fantastic experience: Great experience all around. Extremely chill but takes your safety very seriously. Instructors were amazing and informative. Highly recommend it, I’ll be sending my friends here every time!

Fantastic experience: 1st Gear should absolutely be your top choice if you’re seeking a supportive, friendly, and informative riding school. My experience with them was fantastic; the instructors were knowledgeable and approachable, focusing on both safety and riding skills. They emphasize safety throughout the training, promptly correcting any mistakes to boost your confidence and prepare you thoroughly. This school is particularly excellent for beginners with minimal or no prior motorcycle experience. I trained at their Richmond location and successfully passed the MST Test on my first attempt! Huge thanks to the entire 1st Gear team for their exceptional guidance and support!

Fantastic experience: Super positive experience with Lee and Todd as my instructors, and an awesome small group of other students. It’s not a huge company, which lends itself to a great low stress learning environment with lots of feedback and help. They are obviously really committed to making the experience better and better with each group, improving the way they handle reservations, communication, and the lessons. I really enjoyed the variety of bikes, which helped me figure out what I like, but also made me feel like I could try anything else with a lot more confidence in the future. Also was waaaay better getting the MST done with them rather than having to go back again to ICBC.

Fantastic experience: I wasn't sure if (as a 67 year old woman) I would be capable on a motorcyle and/or like operating one. Instructors Lee and Todd were very personable, clear, and supportive. The course work itself was well laid out as was the practical work. Starting slowly to make sure we understood the weight/balance of a motorcyle up to learning how to make a quick but practiced manoeuver to get out of potential trouble - all this has made me look forward to purchasing a bike and getting out on the road. Thank you guys!

Fantastic experience: Adrian, Todd and Lee were fantastic, very knowledgeable instructors. Had a blast learning from these guys! Worth every penny, highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Had my class this weekend with Mat and Todd, they are really great instructors. The course and exercises are well structured, vibe is chill, and by the end of the class, everyone is ready for the road. Highly recommended

Fantastic experience: We had a small class so it was even more awesome in how much 1-to-1 instruction we could get and feedback. K****r at the richmond location dropped a crapload of F-bombs on us and the whole experience was worth it just for that. (i am of course, just kidding, for legal reasons on the f-bombs) We all ended up passing and having a great experience over the weekend. Highly recommended to take their safety rider course. Even after the weekend MST is done you still get (1) group ride with different options to choose from. If you're looking for a motorcycle school look no further.

Fantastic experience: Awesome school to learn to ride with. Lee and Matt were excellent teachers, very patient and down to earth. The road ride was especially fun. Highly recommend it for anyone learning to ride!

Fantastic experience: These guys really know what they’re doing. The first part, where you learn and take the MSA, they really help you learn how to pass, but also go beyond the MSA and teach you good everyday habits that’ll be useful when you’re out on the road. I went into this course being super nervous, but I had a ton of fun and learned a lot and now I can’t wait to get my own bike and get out on the road. Can’t recommend these guys highly enough.

Positive experience: The instructors here are awesome - Ted and Todd especially. However, it is so frustrating how difficult it is to get ahold of the organizers. Having emails continuously ignored especially when trying to set up a road test is not ideal. There needs to be improvement there.

Fantastic experience: Hands down the best motorcycle course to take if you're wanting to learn how to ride. The instructors (that I had) Lionel, Ted, Adam and Lee were all superb at conveying the proper riding techniques and skills needed to not only pass the MST and ICBC road test, but also good riding habits and skills that they don't teach in the handbook that might save your life when you ride. They all had their own quirks and personalities that really made the classes engaging and fun, they don't make riding a nervous experience. The price may seem like a lot (as I thought as well) at first but it compared to learning improperly and potentially hurting or killing yourself on the road instead of a controlled environment, I'd say it is a very small price to pay. You also get to choose to ride a large selection of bikes that is provided in the course should you not have a motorcycle of your own. From sport bikes to cruisers, you'll probably be spoiled by the selection of bikes to pick. They do the MST testing within the course as well which is a huge advantage as they will teach you ALL the skills you need and more to pass the MST. The practice road rides do help you as well to get more practical experience on the everyday road. I will say the one downside to road ride is depending on the location, they might be fully booked and you might not be able to get a spot. The Richmond location seems to be always filled but there is always room in the Coquitlam or Langley locations but it might be far for some people. Overall, if you were on the fence about taking this course, don't be. I recommend to anyone that is interesting in riding to take it, the price is insignificant to the valuable knowledge the instructors will teach you that will help you become a better rider. This is coming from a 1st Gear Student who now has a class 6 license.

Fantastic experience: The instructors, Todd & Ted, were fantastic all weekend. Good instructions, plenty of constructive feedback to help you grow, encouraging, and always happy to explain why they are so particular on skills and how they can go wrong. Their help is much appreciated. I feel more aware of the risks of riding and I feel more adept in the skills required to stay safe on a bike. I confidently recommend them for your first intro to riding.

Fantastic experience: Excellent experience, instructors are knowledgeable and know lots of people and places in the area if you want to race/adv properly. Matt, Todd and Ted were great, in-class was how to ride and also pragmatic info about how to negotiate and inspect a bike from Marketplace. Ted called me hot dog for ripping the Grom too fast.

Fantastic experience: Class was very informative and the riding course had knowledgeable instructors that are willing to give you pointers to improve your skills. Totally recommend for anyone wanting to learn how to ride.

Fantastic experience: Honestly… this is the school to learn from. If you’re looking at other programs/locations I sincerely urge you to stop your search and sign up with them right now. They are the best guys I have ever met. Richmond instructors are super chill, down to earth and most importantly patient. They take the time to explain everything to you, they show you demos (we love a good demo) and they make learning so fun. Huge shout out to Mat, Todd and uncle Ted for helping me pass my MSA, Lionel and Lee for being awesome instructors in the classroom and on the roads. Sign up in Richmond I promise you won’t regret it. They taught me how to ride in 2 days. If a tiny 5 4 chick can do it so can you!

Fantastic experience: I was taught in class by Lionel, had much more than just off the textbook knowledge, gave us many years of experience so were not robots on the road, then came the physical portion, Although I have not been to another class I can say for certain following Ted and Matt have been one of the most enjoyable classes I have taken, good amount of humour within the course yet pushing you without making anyone feel bad. They also have amazing attitude and general wisdom throughout, trying to keep everyone alive, I can be damn sure anyone who takes their course would come out not riding like an idiot.

Fantastic experience: 1st Gear Review An excellent school to get your motorcycle license! Here is my breakdown of the schedule. I went for the “Dedicated Rider” package. 1. The first thing I did was the online course. It takes a few hours watching the instructor talk, watch videos and answer some questions. A little clunky at times but the overall presentation was really well done! 2. Next was the classroom portion of what the online class was. Just a little more in depth. It’s a good way to ask those questions you may have had one on one. Our teacher Lionel was funny and informative about the subject. 3. Now it gets interesting. First day of learning to ride. From how to get on a motorcycle to shifting and riding around. It was a lot to take in but well worth it! 4. Day 2 of riding. Now that we know how to ride a motorcycle. We got to learn about additional skills as well as learn how to pass the MSA test. Once you pass your MSA you’re ready for some road rides! 5. Now things get real! Once you get comfortable with riding. We got to go ride around on the streets at up to 50km’s. Although short. It was an amazing experience! 6. Now the fun begins! Full road ride around Richmond. Put alot of what we learned to the test. With some u-turns to high speed slaloms. To highway riding! This is where you either love or hate riding! I loved it and wanted more! 7. Last road ride! Lee RideFar took us for an awesome ride around Delta,Ladner to Surrey and back to Richmond. Going through the Massey Tunnel to riding over the Alex Fraser Bridge. An experience I won’t forget! 8. Now that I felt confident enough in my riding. I went ahead and took the Road Test Prep ride. We rode around Richmond and Lee pointed out things to look out for when we take our actual road test. Like bus lanes, school and playground zones. Once you had enough practice you can get them to book your road test. Overall I had an excellent experience going from knowing next to nothing about motorcycles to getting my Class 6!! Thanks to all the instructors and everyone else that were able to get me to where I am today! Ride on!

Fantastic experience: I couldn’t of asked for better teachers, Todd and Ted went above and beyond to help each student not only practice the fundamentals of riding, but to understand how and why. They hammer the information into to you and it truly makes a difference. Money well spent, their entire team is rock solid and will do their absolute best to ensure you not only pass, but become the best possible rider before leaving their course.

Fantastic experience: I recently had the pleasure of learning how to ride a motorbike at 1st gear motorcycle school,and I must say, it was an incredible experience! From start to finish, everything about this school exceeded my expectations. First and foremost, I want to commend the knowledgeable and skilled instructor Ted who guided me throughout the training process. His expertise and passion for motorbikes were evident in every lesson. He was patient, understanding, and always made me feel comfortable, even as a beginner. Their ability to break down complex concepts into easily understandable steps was truly impressive. The school itself provided a fantastic learning environment. Training space was well-maintained and equipped with the latest motorbikes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience. The practice area was spacious, allowing ample room to maneuver and practice various skills. The school also had a strong emphasis on safety, with proper safety gear available for students. What impressed me the most was the personalized approach to instruction. The instructor tailored the lessons to my individual needs and learning style, ensuring that I progressed at a comfortable pace. He was always willing to address any concerns or questions I had, providing clear explanations and helpful tips along the way. It made the entire learning process engaging and enjoyable. The booking process was straightforward and hassle-free. The staff was friendly, accommodating, and prompt in responding to inquiries. They worked with my schedule to find convenient lesson times, making the entire experience convenient and stress-free. I can't recommend them enough for anyone looking to learn how to ride a motorbike, whether you're a complete novice or seeking to enhance your existing skills. Overall, my experience with Ted at 1st Gear was top-notch. If you're considering learning how to ride a motorbike, look no further—this is the place to go! Thank you once again to the entire team at 1st Gear for providing me with an unforgettable learning journey. I am extremely grateful for the knowledge and skills I gained and look forward to many fantastic rides ahead.

Fantastic experience: Excellent instructors, training, motorcycles and location! Lionel, Ted, Todd and Matt were fantastic instructors and experienced riders who provided helpful feedback and examples. The course really inspired confidence in my riding. Having the ability to try multiple different types and sizes of bikes was a real benefit to my learning. Would highly recommend 1st Gear! 10/10

Fantastic experience: This was worth every dollar I spent. One of the instructors, Ted (I think that was his name), was amazing!! Reaaaaalllyyyy strict dude but honestly, when you're learning how to ride a motorcycle that could potentially kill you, I would want someone strict, not hold my hand the whole way. Ted, you're awesome dude and I hope you teach more folks!! You're the reason I'm recommending tons of my friends to this school. If you're looking to get into motorcycles and have ZERO experience, go for 1st Gear Motorcycle School. These guys know what they're doing!!

Fantastic experience: Just finished the 3 day of the 1st Gear course. I wanted to personally say thank you to Lionel and Todd for making the entire experience start to finish extremely enjoyable. Lionel was an amazing instructor in both the in class setting and the riding portion of the class, he was very knowledgeable and excellent at demonstrating the course curriculum while also being hilarious at the same time and making the entire thing very fun and engaging. During the riding training Todd was super helpful and always had a number of pointers to help improve my riding ability and if I had any questions regarding the class or riding in an outside environment he typically had a few very insightful key points to share that I found to be very helpful and are things I will be putting into practice whenever I ride. All in all I would say the 1st Gear program is a must for anyone who is starting out on a motorcycle, you wont find another program where you get such amazing hands on instruction and the ability to try out as many different motorcycles as you do with 1st Gear. I look forward to going back for the group rides, Thanks again!

Fantastic experience: Best money spent bar none. Lionel and his team taught us with extremely thorough, detailed instruction, both in class and out on the bikes. Equipment selection was well maintained and varied to suite any potential riding style. They start right from working the bike while pushing from a stand-still, slow speed handling, all the way to crash avoidance situations on the final day. It was straightforward to pass the MSA after their expert guidance with lots of opportunity to practice guided scenarios on their bikes. Highly recommended if you plan to licence to ride.

Fantastic experience: This is probably the best motorcycling school you can attend. They care that you learn to ride for life, and not just to get moving or pass tests. Riding a motorcycle is easy, but the tips and knowledge to keep you alive in real traffic is not often learned without experienced instructors. I learned to ride from zero experience in only two lessons (Sat and Sun). My teachers were Lionel and Todd. They care for your learning and they are constantly trying to break bad habits and ensure proper handling of the bike. Even as you are first learning they will challenge and push you to keep your hands and feet in the right place and to look where you are going. There are a number of training drills that we'll go over, followed by a brief meeting to point mistakes that we think we are doing, and also to hear a reminder about things we should be doing. The parking lot becomes a safe training space, where we learn proper lane position, correct spacing from other bikes, turning tight corners, and emergency braking. The learning environment is friendly, but there are times when they will not hesitate to shout your name if they catch you doing something that needs correction. The results? I passed my MST test on the first try. I truly enjoyed these sessions and I'm looking forward to the Road Rides. I'd recommend 1st gear to anyone, even if you already know how to ride. I must also mention that the office communications were timely, the details were clear, and their website provides so much information to keep you safe, prepared for tests, and prepared for the real world of riding. I'm so glad I came here!

Positive experience: Edit: My experience of booking road rides is not great to be honest. The confirmation (waitlisting and cancellation) came pretty last minute. I do wish there is a better system to let us know if a road ride is going to happen (or not) - at least 3 days prior to the actual date, and not an email right before the date - so I could actually plan my weekends! Otherwise it'd be a 5-star. -- Original comment on 2023-06-04 (5-star) If you're looking to learn how to ride a motorcycle, I highly recommend checking out courses from 1st Gear! Big shout out to Lionel and Todd, our instructors, for being incredibly knowledgeable and patient with us as we stumbled through the learning process. Their teaching methods were fantastic, and they made sure we were well-prepared for real-world riding scenarios, not just for passing the ICBC MST test (which, by the way, is included at the end of the course). What I loved about the course was how it was structured in a fun and engaging way (heck - even the online / classroom training wasn't boring). For the two days of on-the-bike riding, we had various exercises and games that train us to be prepared for the road. Plus, there were plenty of motorcycles available for us to test ride and experiment with. It was great to get a feel for different types of bikes and figure out what worked best for you. Note: the venue for the course recently changed from SilverCity Riverport to Leader Cold Storage. I almost went to the wrong parking lot lol, so make sure you double-check the address. Although (I heard) the new parking lot is smaller, it was still sufficient for our class of 10. Special thanks to Matt and Otto for helping out and giving riding tips!

Fantastic experience: I came here to leave the review so Todd can get paid. JK :) Honestly, great course content especially training new riders how to react, what to do in emergency situations, and how to brake safely. They actually make you practice emergency stops If you are coming with some previous rider experience without formal training like me, you may be in for a big surprise. I quickly realized how many bad habits I had developed over the years. It is harder to unlearn old habits, go back to the basics and learn new ones. I now know what are the things I need to continue working on. Please go into the course keeping in mind that the aim is not to pass the MSA but to become a good rider for your safety and others’ on the road. If you are a new rider - Congratulations! Lionel and his wonderful team will set you on the right path and most importantly you will have a great time! Good luck!

Fantastic experience: Great demonstration, great course. Just passed my MSA with Ted and Kiefer, Thank you guys for all the life saving advice! Update: just got my class 6 today Uncle Ted!

Fantastic experience: Just finished the 1st Gear course today. Had the pleasure of learning from Ted and Kiefer. They are amazing in their teaching style which can include some tough love but these guys genuinely care for your safety and want you to be safe and succeed in riding. Highly recommend their program for anyone looking for a quality school. The in class portion was run by Lionel, again amazing instruction and real world examples. Thanks team 1st Gear!!

Fantastic experience: It has been an amazing experience all through the course. Very happy that I took the full course at 1st Gear Motorcycle School. The instructors were very experienced and provided excellent coaching. I had Ted for the MSA and the Road Rides. He is highly experienced at the same time, a tough no-nonsence guy, and rightly so. Safety is Ted #1 priority, and he grills it into you. I can not thank Ted enough for instilling in me the skills required to be riding safe and yet enjoy my motorcycle rides. THANK YOU, Ted, and 1st Gear for your service to motorcycle riders. You are the best.

Negative experience: Don't waste your money here! Terrible management and administration!! I paid for a package and tried to book group ride since Feb. Always late or NO response to email and voicemail! Lots of creative reasons to cancel rides or even same day cancelation, quotes as follow: 1. "This ride will be cancelled due to the weather" 2."my instructor is no longer avaliable for this afternoon's ride due to an emergency" 3. "Tomorrow Road Ride at 1pm is cancelled due to signups" 4."due to the long weekend and weather, this Road Experience will be rescheduled " 5."this Road Experience is cancelled due to a low signup count." 6. "We are changing the date and time of this weekend's ride in Richmond due to staffing and weather conditions." They don't go out rain or shine! They take your money and lie!!

Fantastic experience: I signed up with 1st gear and passed my MST. The instructos in Richmond Todd and Tim were hard to please but they were great. They are doing their job and they are excellent at it. They do everything possible to make sure you are ready to ride not just once but for a long long time in this Lower Mainland car jungle. I definitely recommend this school. I am thankful what I learned. Two thumbs up!!! Keep up the great work.

Fantastic experience: What an experience from hearing about them, to every lesson they taught during the courses, to the private one-on-one lessons. I'd like to express my most appreciation towards Ted and Tod for teaching us during the two day lot courses. They were so professional and treated us as family, entering the biking community. They taught us from A to Z and taught safety as a mentality which I appreciate the most. I took private lessons with Ted Shannon as well as he was just super to learn from. 1st Gear has both Ted and Tod as assets! Thank you guys.

Fantastic experience: Totally worth the money! I went into this class knowing next to nothing, and left with a bunch of confidence in my abilities along with a healthy respect for the risk of riding motorcycles. The instructors (Ted, Todd and Lionel) were top notch. They struck the prefect balance of providing useful instruction and feedback, without over loading us with information. I really can't say enough good things about my experience with 1st Gear.

Fantastic experience: If you are on the fence about signing up, do it as soon as you can. I am so glad I took this course, learned much more than I would have riding alone or with friends. Absolutely worth the money. Instructors were attentive and clear, they provided excellent feedback and constructive criticism. The classroom portion kept me interested. Give yourself a good chunk of time to do the online lesson before the class starts, because it feels a little laggy and antiquated. I think that may be the fault of ICBC regulations and not the writers of the curriculum, so I don't hold it against the school at all. If they offered a moto mechanic crash course I would be first in line, cash in hand! Thanks a ton 1st Gear, looking forward to linking up for road rides.

Fantastic experience: I'm thrilled to share that I passed my MST test using 1st gear, and the school was exceptional! Ed, Lionel, and Lee provided an in-depth course, pointing out my poor riding habits and helping me correct them. Now, whenever I ride my motorcycle, I feel confident that I have the necessary skills to arrive home safely. One aspect of the course that stood out the most to me was 1st gear's emphasis on having fun during the lessons. They made it clear that if you're not enjoying yourself, then you're not really learning. This lesson resonated with me, and I'm sure it will stick with me for a long time. Lastly, I must mention that 1st gear is committed to helping their students become the safest riders on the road, and they will do whatever it takes to make that happen. I'm grateful for the knowledge and expertise they've imparted to me, and I highly recommend their program to anyone looking to improve their motorcycle riding skills. Update: Jun 1, 2023 - I passed my road test thanks to 1st Gear. Before my road test, I did a quick inspection and realized that my foot brake light isn't working. Then I remembered Lee's advice when the tester was checking my foot brake light (press the handle brake at the same time) lmao... I'm glad it worked out and I didn't get turned away by ICBC.

Fantastic experience: I enrolled in the safety rider course. It was a very fun three days of motorcycle training. I came in with zero motorcycle experience and had a blast learning with Ted, Todd, Lee, Lionel and all the other students. All very outgoing, patient and compassionate. They provided feedback every step of the way during each exercise and was always direct on where improvements need to happen. Of course, they gave a lot of encouragement when I and the other students showed improvement through mishaps which raised the overall morale. I took a fall during one of the exercises due to my own mistake and Ted did not hesitate to check if I was okay and lift the bike from underneath me. He continued to boost my morale to bring my confidence back up which I was very happy with, even though I was expecting to fall once or twice during the whole thing. It's a learning experience and part of the fun! During the final day of parking lot training, our class was tested on the MST and I was struggling with slow speed U-Turns. The instructors allowed ample time to practice before taking the official test. Todd, Lee and even some of the other students encouraged me and gave a lot of advice to help me get it right. I finally felt confident enough after roughly 30 minutes of U-Turn practice to attempt the MST and managed to pass it first try with some hiccups. Honestly couldn't have done it without such a supportive group. If you're looking to ride this season and have no motorcycle experience whatsoever, I highly recommend 1st Gear. Don't think it's just demonstration into execution. There's a lot of fun mixed into the course! I'm excited to ride on my own and come back to 1st Gear with the road rides!

Fantastic experience: I completed a one day private lesson learn to ride course with 1st Gear which ended with me doing (and passing!) the MST test. After my experience I highly recommend going to 1st Gear to learn to ride. I'm a smaller rider at 5'7" and I had never been on a motorcycle before. 1st Gear has a lot of different bikes and the selection makes it possible to find one that you will feel comfortable learning on. I spent my course and did my test on a Suzuki 250 which I found to be nice and low so it was easy to get on plus it was very stable and straightforward to ride. My instructor for the day was Chris C., who I found to be very knowledgeable, patient, and easy to understand. Chris took me through riding a motorcycle one step at a time. He made sure I understood and gained confidence with a given skill before we moved onto the next one. Chris is also very good at diagnosing problems. So when I wasn't getting something, he was able to spot what I was doing and then give me helpful feedback on how to correct the issue. Riding a motorcycle is challenging and Chris did a good job of keeping an eye on me while I learned and practiced the skills. He noticed when I became frustrated and he encouraged me to take breaks and not to worry if I wasn't perfect in a particular exercise. He emphasized that the ultimate goal is to ride safely. I finished the course and felt extremely happy! It's a thrill to ride a motorcycle even if you are simply learning the basics. 1st Gear is a good school and I'll return to them in the future for more training.

Fantastic experience: Took the 3 day course with Ted back in September. Wonderful instruction and I was confident to ride on my own on the road after the course. Afterwards, I did road ride prep with Chris and two road rides with Matt. By the end of it I felt ready for the road test already. Took a bike out to practice for two more days on my own and passed the class 6 road test today! They really teach you all you need to know. With a bit of practice, you will be ready in no time.

Fantastic experience: I started with zero experience with riding motorcycles. In 2.5 months from taking their in-class course, I was able to get my full Class 6 license. I would recommend First Gear to ANYONE looking to get into the world of 2 wheels. The instructors are experienced, professional and such great teachers who have so much passion for motorcycling. They teach you all you need to know to pass the ICBC road test but more importantly, to be a safe rider on the road! Thanks First Gear!

Fantastic experience: Don't look any further. This is the course you've been looking for. Controlled environment, you can try different bikes and the instructors are awesome super friendly. Lionel was the main instructor and what a great teacher! Learning from someone who has been riding for more than 2 decades is a great feeling that you are in great hands. Shout out to Todd, Mat and Brian also great teacher's!

Fantastic experience: Personally never ridden a motorcycle before I think it was a bit overwhelming and I wish we had more time in between exercises, however sometimes you need to get a push to get things right. Lionel and Kevin did a really did a good job including rest of the crew in Richmond. I would personally add day 3 to the course and maybe change the starting time to 8am to get more practice time. Overall the techniques methods various approaches are superb. The knowledge is amazing. These guys deserve every star on the review, if there were 6 stars I would give them that.

Fantastic experience: Just finished the 3 day course. The instructors are awesome. Thank you so much Chris, Matt, Brian, Ben and Lionel. Your instructions and demonstration are extremely clear and fruitful. I have zero experience in riding and I am able to pass the MSA in the first attempt! You can't go wrong with these guys. You will be impressed.

Fantastic experience: One of the best training courses i have ever taken! Thoroughly enjoyed the class, staff was so friendly and informative. Christopher, Carol, Lee and Ed were great. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone! I'm sending my daughter for her lessons to these guys next..BTW, I got % and it's thanks to these cool people.

Fantastic experience: I've just finished the Safety Rider course and it was AMAZING! We started from the basics during the first day, and then went into more of the details and different skills later. I got to admit, it was really overwhelming for me at first. Since I am not even a driver, my brain was struggling to make the connections between my actions and the vehicle reacting to that xD But thanks to Ted, Carol and Christopher (who all believed in me more than I myself did :D ) it was possible for me to work on the mistakes, make some new ones and work on them too, and to pass an MST test :)) I definitely recommend the 1st Gear for high professionalism and kind attitude. It was so fun and exciting! Will come back for the Road Rides soon

Fantastic experience: I had no experience with motorcycles so I enrolled in the Safety Rider course (Full Course, MST Test, Road Ride Prep, and Road Ride). I'm so grateful that I did because they comprehensively taught me all of the basics and safety fundamentals that I needed to feel confident and comfortable with getting ready to ride on the road. A big shout out to Chris and Mat during the MST prep course for making the lessons memorable, fun, and making sure every student received the appropriate amount of attention. Another big shout out to Mat during the Road PREP. He was super friendly, patient, and knowledgeable. As my first time with a motorcycle on the road, I felt very confident that he was ensuring the safety of the group, and making sure we had the right skills to proceed on our learning journey. Couldn't have asked for better instructors!

Fantastic experience: I took the motorcycle training course with Lee and Christopher, and had an amazing experience. They took me from never being on a bike of any kind to easily and confidently passing the mst test in two days. The instructos were patient, motivavating and detailed making sure they had enough time for everyone who needed it. They were also very accomodating when I let my license expire and needed to retake the mst test. They got me in immediately for a retest and were the same encouraging, amusing instructors I had the pleasure to learn from the previous year. I always reccomend 1st gear to anyone I know wanting to learn how to ride!

Fantastic experience: Money well spent, never rode a motorcycle in my life was nervous, spent 2 days in the parking lot and passed my parking lot test. Carol and Ben my two teachers were really helpfull and taught me many important things I'd never think of if I didn't go to this school. Anyone that's planning to ride should definitely consider this course even if you had prior road experience, this has all boosted my confidence, thanks 1st gear, and thanks to Ben and Carol for the awsome time in class.

Fantastic experience: Took the 1st Gear weekend course last summer and passed my road test on the first try. Really happy with the training and the program they offered. The instruction is practical and focused. Instructors are straight forward and encouraging. There's lots of time on the bikes. The road rides and practice road test are great offerings that made a difference to my confidence on the bike and my readiness for the road test. Shout out to Mel, Ted and Leel. Thanks very much!

Fantastic experience: Christopher and Carol are absolutely stellar instructors. Not only do they coach the skills necessary to pass the MSA, they also provide valuable real world training that could be potentially life saving. They are extremely knowledgeable and proficient and they are also incredibly attentive and supportive, whilst reinforcing rider confidence the whole course. I would definitely recommend this program to any prospective riders over self learning as this could potentially be life saving one day. Thanks guys!

Fantastic experience: I'm stoked that I learned to ride at first gear! The instructors & owner were super helpful and informative. If you're struggling with something they will make sure to take extra time with you until you figure it out. I really liked that they don't just focus on the MSA, they teach you a ton of real world scenarios and how to appropriately react. 10/10 would recommend if you're new to motorcycles and want your liscence. Don't be discouraged if it's raining during you're course!! I'm now greatful I learned in the rain because I feel comfortable riding in pour weather!

Fantastic experience: Had a great experience at 1st Gear learning how to ride. Carol and Brian were excellent instructors who not only have a deep understanding of riding but also know how to convey that experience to new riders in a patient, organized manner. I haven't taken lessons at other local schools to compare, but I don't think you can go wrong with these guys. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: I took the first Coquitlam weekday course of 2022 having never sat on a motorcycle. Christopher, Ted and Guy had me whipped into shape and riding confidently (as confident as a beginner can be) in only 2 days! The course was very informative and interactive. The instructors were very clear, they asked us lots of questions and also asked us for lots of input. Chris was very charismatic. He has a natural gift of public speaking and did a very good job of keeping the content entertaining while also explaining the topics in a very clear manor. Ted has over 50 years of riding experience and isn’t afraid to speak his mind. His old school demeanour mixed with his sense of humour really helped built confidence and made you feel like you couldn’t fail! Guy is a man of few words and has an equally as impressive riding history as Ted. You can just tell he is observing your every move on the course and is constantly analyzing your habits good and bad. For some reason his presence was intimidating to me (in a good way) and made me ride better when I knew he was watching. I read tons of reviews for this training facility before I signed up for the course. None of it is BS. This company is organized, professional and they genuinely care about what they do! I walked out of there with my MST papers in hand feeling more confident than I could have imagined 2 days ago. To the whole team at 1st gear, Kudos! You guys deserve every bit of recognition you get!

Fantastic experience: Awesome school. I went in nervous and zero experience on a motorcycle. I was very intimidated, but the teachers and program is so well designed, that anyone can learn to ride a motorcycle safely. Adam, Ted and Cathy are the perfect, they are super strict on certain aspects, as they should be because riding a motorcycle is dangerous and all of us newbies needed those habit, but they are so positive when they need to Be. The coarse was fun, we laughed, even though it rained. I left with a smile on my face. Would recommend this to coarse to anyone. Ruby mann

Fantastic experience: Hello all, This past weekend I took the 3 day Motorcycle course (Thurs, Sat, Sun). I've chose the Dedicated Rider package with includes - classroom, parking lot lessons and practise, plus roadride prep and 2 road rides. I've completed the first part including the Motorcycle Skills Test. Next step are the road rides. Ok, here's the review so far, get a coffee, sit back and relax because it's a big one. What experience I had before I started this course: ~ Driving for 30+ years ~ Bicycling experience since 3 yrs old, commuted for 10+y rain or shine ~ Cycle for exercise regularly 1-2.5 yr rides ~ Triathlete/competed, bicycle handling skills x7 years ~ Raced in (bicycle) criteriums x 2 1/2 years ~NO manual shifting experience and NO other motorcycling/dirt biking experience How I felt as a woman taking the coed course: ~ The staff was welcoming, all of them. ~ I became more comfortable when I noticed that all of us had things to work on. ~ You do your thing, you might be the only woman in the class and that's okay. How I felt as a human: ~ Nerves got worse when I was tired ~ I performed and felt better when warm and fed so wear proper clothes, take rests and refocus if needed ~ Overall I didn't find the course physically demanding but did find it mentally demanding because I was learning manual shifting from scratch. My brain hurt at the end of the day (Day 1), not my muscles. My hand muscles were sore from learning to use the levers otherwise I was fine. NOTE: I had one of the smallest bikes (Kawasaki 125cc) so didn't have the weight of the 200cc+ models to maneuver around. ~stay humble, you'll learn more The staff: Carol (classroom Thurs night Sa + Su Morning): excellent presentation skills, speaks to her learners at their level, not boastful but instead quite honest about her experience and her own path of learning. Reads the room well and has a good sense of humour. Carol, thanks for being interesting for us and interested in us. Chris (Sat + Sun day): Clear in his direction out on the course. When I made a mistake he calmly and thoughtfully approached the situations without shaming me as a learner. He prioritised and emphasized what I DEFINITELY needed to do and commented on positive things like "good shoulder check". Comments like that are simple but effective, helping to keep his learners' minds in the game. Chris's step by step direction felt very supportive when I failed my first MST attempt. I took about an hour to regroup, practise and try again. Chris, thanks for your gentle humour and thoughtful steady suggestions to improve my skills. Guy (Sa +Sun day): Provided support overall, he pointed out safety issues with our approach to the bikes. He has a fair amount of experience and admitted that he has made mistakes and mentioned how to avoid them. He provides a perspective on decades of riding. A historian if you will. Thank you Guy! Bin (Sa +Sun day): Oh Bin, I'm glad I passed my MST on my second try with you. Phew! Bin not only supported the instruction for the Chinese speaking learners on the course but also demonstrated the skills we were about to do (not able to comment on his instruction in Chinese). His bike handling appears top notch and that's good because apparently he's a fast one. He likes the track. Overall I'd say - his demeanor is pleasant but he appears to be a no nosense dude. Ben, thanks for your calm support during my second test, much appreciated. Selina and Website/communications crew: Selina, thank you for being prompt in your reply and follow up. The website is easy to understand and access, well done. NOTE: Lionel, glad you have this school! Now, you mentioned that your staff only gets paid if they're good enough for a google review (ha haa!). Well, I guess this means you need to cut them a big fat cheque? I'm glad for all for the support so far. We'll see what the next phase brings, Marie Photo Description: Parked bikes during the skills session in the parking near the Holiday Inn Express, Richmond.

Fantastic experience: Just finished my weekend course and I have to say, I was extremely impressed with how the class was taught. Carol made the classroom portion really engaging and gave us lots of hints regarding the ICBC tests, real life riding, and buying/selling bikes. Our lot instructors Christopher, Ben, Guy were the perfect instructors I could ask for. They created an atmosphere where everyone would be engaged and having fun. The trio definitely know what they are talking about as seen when they watch you, they are able to see every mistake you make and instead of simply telling you, they would also show you and give you hints on how to correct it, and execute the maneuver perfectly. They were also really patient with you as even if you repeat the mistake multiple times, they do not get annoyed and still give you the feedback in a way that makes you feel like they care. Trust me, this course will set you on the right path. Thanks again everyone! -Kevin

Fantastic experience: 100% recommend this course to anyone looking to improve their skills and pass the MST. Carol, Ben, Chris and Guy were great instructors delivering a fun and knowledgeable program. They provide lots of feedback and help you build your confidence on a bike. Looking forward to the rides!

Fantastic experience: Great place to learn how to ride motorcycle. The crew Christopher, Ben and Carol are amazing. Patient with all students, focused feedback i.e they are genuinely nice people and Really good instructors. Honestly you get more for the price. My training included everything I needed, including Gear ( helmet did not fit well so had to borrow one of theirs) Highly recommend and would be open to taking other offerings in the future. Cheers and enjoy riding !!!!

Fantastic experience: What a fantastic class! I just finished the Learn to Ride course this weekend. Carol, Lionel, Chris, Lee and Ben were incredibly respectful and informative and I learned a ton of new techniques. They do an amazing job of answering questions and the classroom and course content is fantastic. Bad habits from my old riding days were wiped away and I felt like I learned a ton with this incredible team of instructors. If I had to offer one critique it would be that I did feel 14 riders pushed the class size a little too high. Some of the lessons were a little difficult to execute at times given how many riders were on the course. This was much less of a problem by day two when a lot of the riders were starting to get more comfortable controlling their bikes. And a special shout out to Lionel for convincing me to try the cruiser style. Felt so good!!

Fantastic experience: AH- WAIT FOR IT- MAZING experience. I've never ridden a motorcycle at all but after the class I was able to ride at traffic speed with little to no problem. Carol- Is such a kind/great instructor she will literally answer any question you may have in mind, no judgement. She will walk you through all the steps if need be. Christopher- Is also an amazing instructor always sounds so reassuring. Tells you what you did wrong and how to correct it, but not in a condescending way. Ben- another great instructor! Does all the demo for us to see the proper way, except for one time he hit a cone. We were all disappointed. Just kidding! Lionel and Lee- Great owners/ instructors they were there to mess around keep everything a bit more relaxed vibe! I'D RATHER TAKE MY MSA/Test WITH THEM THAN PEOPLE FROM iCb.... less pressure more encouraging and fun. YOU'D WISH THEY WERE YOUR COLLEGE INSTRUCTORS IN SCHOOL FOR WHATEVER CLASS. All in all, Do Not HESITATE TO ENROLL. -Raf (1st class of 2022)

Fantastic experience: I'm glad I took my training with 1st gear. There's definitely so much more to learn with riding than meets the eye. Canic and Chris were awesome instructors. They were patient with me, and I was able to over come a lot of my initial fears. I look forward to preparing for road rides and taking the advanced course in the future with them.

Fantastic experience: The safety course with 1st Gear was awesome, they went above and beyond with the training which made it a lot easier and less stressful when it came to taking the MSA test. A great group of trainers it was worth every dime, would 100% recommend this course to anyone looking to get into riding! They also do advanced training and other courses, practice road tests etc, do yourself a favour and register with 1st Gear you won’t regret it!

Fantastic experience: Having emigrated to Canada, I had to redo my motorcycle license test again. I took the full course over the weekend which included four group rides and a practice road test. The instructors Lionel, Carol, Ben and Canic are exceptional instructors. The lessons and training made me realize that there was a lot I needed to know on how to ride safely, and to be a better rider. My skills have since improved tremendously. I am also proud to say I have obtained my full riders license and it would not have been possible without 1st Gear. Them sharing their wealth of knowledge and experience, are true gold nuggets I will always carry with me. Every time I ride past the school in Richmond, I get a sense of joy and pride to have been part of the school. Well done to 1st Gear and team. Wishing you guys all the best!

Fantastic experience: Amazing riding school! The instructors are approachable, knowledgeable, and very friendly. Chris, Carol, and Ben did an amazing job. 1st Gear also have a wide selection of motorcycles to try. I couldn't be any happier with 1st Gear. I highly recommend this school and their program. They will give you the tools and know-how to be successful on the road. Cheers!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely amazing group of people to teach anyone looking to learn how to ride a motorcycle! Carol, Christopher and Ben were insightful, knowledgeable and fun. They pushed riders with some experience to test them further, but took it extra slow for the riders who had never even sat on anything powered before. I will absolutely recommend them to anyone and everyone. I will also be attending some advanced courses once I feel confident enough in my own skills. Thank you again to all the team members at 1st Gear!

Fantastic experience: I just got my MST with 1st gear, and it was great. If you really want to ride a motorcycle please do take a course and 1st gear is the way to go. They will teach you so much more than watching YouTube videos. Taking this course made me realize that there is so much more about riding a motorcycle. The instructors are great they focus on your safety and how to ride safely on the road. I’m glad I took 1st gear. Great atmosphere, selections of bike, and instructors I highly recommend 1st gear!

Fantastic experience: I did the weekend course. The first part of the course was classroom. We first touched a real bike Saturday at 10am. One of our instructors, Canic, said by the end of the day you'll be ready for the MSA. I didn't believe that, especially since the first hour on the bikes few of the students looked like we had any clue what we were doing. But he was right. The theory and practical instruction is on point and by the end of the first practical day you'll be confident riding in a parking lot. You'll still be anxious with low speed maneuvers, but you'll have all the fundamentals you need. The road rides included in the course are a must do. You'll gain so much confidence after your first ride and you'll be ready to start riding the roads on your own bike. The instructors on the road rides are also great - if is your first ride you'll push outside of your comfort zone but you'll never feel unsafe. Can't recommend 1st gear enough - entire experience was very positive.

Fantastic experience: Just took 1st gears motorcycle safety course and msa testing last weekend and it was an awesome experience!! Lionel the owner was very kind and helpful with teaching safety instructions allowing me to learn quickly and efficiently. As well as Canic who is also an incredible instructor and left no stones unturned with the learning process and was always willing to chat one on one about improvements to be made. The skills and techniques this course teaches you not only enables you to pass the test but to ride safely out in the street. 100% Recommend this course to you, your family, and your dog.

Fantastic experience: Definitely recommend taking this course. The instructors, Canic and Lionel, are awesome! They set the tone for a great learning environment. Super impressed with the instruction, information, and how much detail they go into. I had a great time and will be telling anyone thinking of riding to sign up for this course!

Fantastic experience: What I can say bad about the course? Absolutely nothing! The great course, the best instructors! Big thank you to all my instructors: Canic, Christopher and Carol! Definitely recommending that course for any level of students. Great time and prosperity to the 1st Gear motorcycle school! SM

Fantastic experience: Just finished up the “Safety Rider” course at 1st Gear in Richmond, and I had a great time there.
The course and instructors were super engaging, they broke things down multiple times and addressed questions between the demonstrations and asking you to do it. I found that they struck a balance of keeping things fun but also being dead serious about making sure you were learning and executing the safety maneuvers correctly, as it could save you from a serious accident. They provided lots of practical day to day tips about general riding, etiquette and are super knowledgable. These guys seem genuinely invested in your motorcycle journey and not just getting you passed the MST/MSA. I’m looking forward to going on the road rides with them next.

Thanks Lionel, Ted and Canic!

Fantastic experience: I’ve been wanting to learn to ride and finally made the decision to enrol myself in a course, and I’m so glad I did! I can already tell this is the best investment I’ve made since starting my motorcycling journey. Carol and Ted are amazing instructors. They’re kind, patient and extremely supportive. They’ll never make you feel bad or judged for something you don’t know or can’t do properly. They’re committed no matter what skill level you might be. Thank you for building up confident and safe riders :)

Fantastic experience: Great experience, good atmosphere and learning environment. Overall all the coaches are really nice and helpful. They were attentive and responsive to all the students' needs. Christopher was exceptionally supportive, helped me up after I fell off the bike. He's also every patient, emphasized on the parts I couldn't do right and got me ready for my MSA.

Fantastic experience: Great school, tons of fun! Was part of a 16 person class, very friendly classmates. Canic, Chris and Lionel were our instructors and they were all superb. Got yelled at, but I deserved it especially for almost running Lionel over. He was still all smiles afterwards. The course is packed with safe riding info, and I actually learned a lot more than I expected to. There's a wide variety of motorcycles to learn on as well. Highly recommend this school! Can't wait to book my road rides with 1st Gear. PS: Put sunblock on for the training lot days!!

Fantastic experience: Took a private lesson with Canic and had interactions with Lionel as well. Nothing but good things to say about both of them. I've never rode a motorcycle before and now I feel confident hopping on my bike and taking it out. Never felt rushed during the lesson and overall was just a great experience. Definitely worth the money and helps you learn the best practices right from the start.

Fantastic experience: I signed up for the Learn to Ride program with zero experience. Prior to going in, I was extremely nervous and a bit scared. However, in just 3 days, I can ride with lots of confidence. The instructors really really try to teach you everything they know about how to ride SAFE. Patrick is just so cool, patient, and full of charm. Ted always yells at us (in a joking manner of course) for encouragement. When I was so sick nervous about the MST, Ted was there with me the whole time to practice. And most importantly, Carol is the BEST! As a female rider, she knows how to take care of her female students. She knows exactly what we needed when we needed it. If you are interested in riding, please please please check them out. This is the best experience I've had, and I promise it's gonna be yours too!