Rider Academy

What to ask a motorcycle training school

• Do you provide the motorcycle and helmet for the course, or do I bring my own? Many beginner courses supply a small bike; most expect your own gloves, boots over the ankle, and a long-sleeved jacket.
• Does finishing the course count toward my motorcycle endorsement, and what paperwork do I take to the licensing office afterward? The rules differ by state, so ask the school rather than a forum.
• How big are the classes, and how many coaches are on the range? Fewer riders per coach means more time riding and less time waiting.
• What happens if it rains, or if I do not pass the riding part? Ask about rescheduling and retake fees before you pay.
• Do you run courses beyond the beginner class, such as an experienced rider or advanced skills course? A refresher after a long break is worth the day.

Worth the ride from St. Paul, MN

• Cherokee Regional Park

  Viewpoint

  Mississippi River bluff views north to downtown St.

• Mickey's Diner

  Food

  A downtown diner car open since the 1930s and a National Register landmark.

• Dunn Bros Coffee on Grand

  Coffee

  The original Dunn Bros from 1987, near the Mississippi River Boulevard run along the gorge.

All 3 places worth the ride near St. Paul, MN →

Riding here?

Make Rider Academy a stop on your next ride. Find a route that passes by, schedule a group ride with it as the stop, or see how 2 Wheels in Common works for riders.

New to riding? See how to get your motorcycle license, step by step, with links to the official rules.