Author: The Podcast Host

Guest: Chip Spalding, business development manager and instructor at the nation’s premier motorcycle riding school: Yamaha Champions Riding School.

Episode Summary:
Get ready to master the art of trail braking as I am joined by the business development manager for Yamaha Champions Riding School, Chip Spalding. Listen in as we debunk the misperception that riders should never touch the brakes in the corner and learn how trail braking is an essential part of riding technique. Chip elaborates on the critical role of trail braking in their curriculum and how 70-80% of their students are street riders.

Moving forward, we turn our attention to how skills learned on the track can be transferred to the street. Engage with us as we dissect the variables of apexes, the slowest point of the corner, and the decision point. We further compare the benefits of Yamaha Champ School’s two-day program and the one-day program for street riders.

As we conclude, we encourage all listeners to invest in formal education to become safer, more confident riders.

Guest: David Weed, currently an MSF-certified RiderCoach and RiderCoach trainer and formerly the lead technical specialist for the Washington State Motorcycle Program.

Episode Summary:
Join us for a fascinating chat with David Weed, a certified RiderCoach and instructor trainer with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). We tackle the contentious issue of four-finger braking in motorcycling. Listen as David demystifies the myth of four-finger braking, highlighting its practicality, effectiveness, and role in the MSF curriculum. From his insights, you’ll understand that while the MSF doesn’t prescribe a specific number of fingers for braking, it is essential for riders to have the freedom to experiment and find the method that works best for them.

David also brings to light the importance of effective communication in motorcycle training. We engage in an enlightening discussion about the necessity for instructors to be clear in their teachings. David underlines the significance of questioning our own beliefs and keeping abreast with the latest guidance as instructors, which makes for an intriguing listen.

Finally, we venture into the realm of motorcycle safety and strategic thinking. Bret and David emphasizes the need for riders to make decisions based on their own experience and understanding of the motorcycle’s response, rather than strictly adhering to instructions. In addition, we discuss the mental aspects of riding, providing insights that can help improve your riding experience. So tune in and be part of this enlightening conversation. And remember, our podcast doesn’t have any advertisements or sponsors – we’re all about sharing knowledge and engaging in discussion.

Related Video: Does MSF Teach Four Finger Braking?

Guest: Alex and Bret discuss some of the advantages and challenges of switching to a heavier boot for ADV riding.

Discussion Points:
1.  There is huge difference between motocross boots and boots that are marketed as an Adventure boot.

Key Takeaways:
– There is the challenge of getting away from boots that you can walk around in.  Move into boots that actually protect your ankles if you fall down.

Boots mentioned in this podcast are the Sidi Crossfire 3’s – purchased on Amazon here. 

Disclosure: I only recommend products I actually use, and all opinions expressed in this podcast are my own. This post contains affiliate links that – at no additional cost to you – I may earn a small commission.

Guest: Jarrett King is an ADV rider and mechanical designer at Mitas Tires.

Discussion Points:
1.  Air pressure – should I air down before riding off-road?
2.  Why is the manufacturer’s baseline pressure different from what’s written on the sidewall?
3.  Can a rider increase or decrease the size of the tire on the bike?

Key Takeaways:
– It’s interesting to observe what people think they can feel and what they can actually feel when it comes to tires.

Guest: Kip Kyler stands 6’4” with a 38” inseam who is riding a Husqvarna 701.  He has made a few adjustments to accommodate his height and weight, but still feels cramped in the cockpit while riding.  He has reached out to Bret to find out what other adjustments he can make and what kind of suspension he may need to install.

Discussion Points:
1.  How to choose the right spring for your riding style and weight.
2.  How to find the right local suspension tuner for you.
3.  How to determine the correct suspension setup needed for you.

Key Takeaways:
– When a bike is suspended properly, it will greatly increase your confidence.  People don’t understand how important setting up the bike properly is.

– Many people adjust their bars to be comfortable when standing straight up.  This is not correct – if something catches you off-guard, it can throw you off-balance and you end up with a whiskey throttle.

– Preload does not actually make the springs stiffer; they just feel stiffer.