Around the Wheel with Bret Tkacs

CHOOSING THE PROPER ADV BOOT Guest: Brian Price, owner of Atomic Moto (https://www.atomic-moto.com) Topic: Bret and Brian discuss how to choose the proper off-road boot for your motorcycle adventures. Key Takeaway: The industry has done a terrible job in explaining how gear functions and what people really need. They take the easier path when selling footwear, which is driven by the same way we sell casual footwear – you choose it based on how comfortable it feels.  READ ARTICLES ABOUT BRET'S EXPERTISE

OLD GUY ADV RIDING TIPS Guest: Murrae Haynes, a lifetime motorcyclist who is currently 74 years old. Topic: Bret and Murrae discuss some of the concerns and changes that become more prominent with age. Key Takeaway: When you get older, your recovery time is so much longer that your caution naturally goes up.  When that crosses the line into fear, people start to make mistakes they wouldn't normally make.

TRAIL BRAKING WITH YAMAHA CHAMPIONS RIDING SCHOOL Guest: Chip Spalding, business development manager and instructor at the nation's premier motorcycle riding school: Yamaha Champions Riding School. Topic: Bret and Chip discuss the importance of teaching and using trail braking in all curves, not just off-road. Key Takeaway: Regarding crashing in a curve: "Most of the time it's not really a traction limit; our brain shuts down before we actually run out of traction.  We're the ones who cause ourselves to crash."

WHY TEACH FOUR FINGERED BRAKING? Guest: David Weed, currently an MSF-certified RiderCoach and RiderCoach trainer and formerly the lead technical specialist for the Washington State Motorcycle Program. Topic: Bret and David dive into the controversial topic of teaching and using four fingers on the brake, why it's still being taught, and strategies to improve as a rider (hint: it involves questioning the status quo). Key Takeaway:We need to learn from what the bike is telling us and be able to make our own choices.  Each choice has it's own advantages and consequences.  To be a really good rider, a talented rider, we must make choices in the moment and know when something makes sense and when it doesn't. Video mentioned in this podcast: Does MSF Teach Four Finger Braking?

MX BOOTS VS ADV BOOTS 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.

ADV Tire Talk Guest: Jarrett King is an ADV rider, mechanical engineer, and the North America Regional Manager 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.

LARGE & TALL BIKE SETUP 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.

INVESTING IN EXPERIENCE When taking riders overseas on motorcycle expeditions, Bret has been surprised to note that participants don't have the problems he would expect them to have.  In fact, less-experienced riders quickly develop their skill sets and become confident off-road riders very quickly - much faster than in any traditional training environment.  Bret dives into this phenomenon with his friend and instructor Paul.Note:  If you are bothered by foul language, please start this podcast at 00:56.Guest: Paul Solomonson teaches alongside Bret and enjoys riding a BMW 1200GS off-road.Upcoming Tours:  South Africa - Learn MoreDiscussion Points:1.  The highest risk issues in traveling overseas or in remote areas.2.  How to change training to quickly and effectively develop skill sets.Key Takeaways:- Make sure you practice the things that are uncomfortable to you.- Focus on the skill sets you don't think you'll ever need.Videos Mentioned:Mistakes riders make in tight places.The Bar-Stop Skill - Ride Like a ProThe Rolling Dismount - Ride Like a Pro

AVOID DANGEROUS COMPLACENCY Sometimes riding can be not very exciting or even downright boring.  The excitement of reacting to everything on the road fades away once you feel you've encountered most situations and feel comfortable with the threats that are common to motorcyclists.  However, this natural progression can lead to a dangerous lack of focus... and that's when the curve closes up too fast or the deer is directly in line with your headlights.  Bret talks about methods he uses to keep focus while riding. Guest: David Holy is a Patreon subscriber and rides a BMW 1200GS.Discussion Points:1.  What is riding with a PLAN?2.  How can I avoid getting distracted in daydreams while riding?Key Takeaways:- Identify the IMpossibilities in order to see the possibilities.- You should never go faster than the distance in which you can come to a controlled (non-panic) stop.Trail Braking Rant @ 22:50

HOW TO MANAGE FEAR WHILE RIDING A MOTORCYCLE. Bret Tkacs discusses a subject that every ADV motorcyclist has faced - how to manage fear.  This is a subject that's widely discussed, but only in general terms – until this podcast.  Learn specific strategies to work specifically with a paralyzing fear of heights while riding. Guest: Kerry Haggerty, a Patreon subscriber and a former student of Bret's ADV Camp.  She rides Triumph 900 and reached out to Bret for advice after experiencing some paralyzing fear while riding with some friends at Crater Lake, Oregon. Discussion Points: 1.  Is fear a good thing or a bad thing? 2.  How can I work on my fear while riding? Key Takeaways: - Fear can be reasonable, unreasonable, or fatal. - The objective is not to eliminate fear, but to not become debilitated by fear. References Made: Three Corner Rock Adventure Camp ADV Training Tour

IS ADJUSTABLE SUSPENSION WORTH THE COST? Suspension is undoubtedly one of the most critical aspects to your motorcycle, and many people talk about upgrading their suspension.  However, since the cost can be up to $7,000, it's important to know what upgraded suspension can do for your motorcycle, and whether you should invest in an upgrade.There is a narrow weight window for stock suspension, which is around 180lbs (rider and gear together).  Some people believe if they add preload and get the motorcycle up to proper sag, they're in good shape.  However, that may provide for a rough and unstable ride.  It's most important to have the right spring for your weight and riding style.  Manual adjustments to suspension are only important when you start riding aggressively on the street (in curves) and into dirt that challenges the bike.  Any upgrade to suspension from OEM will be a significant improvement for most people.@ 12:45.  Process of measuring sag on your motorcycle with a second person.@ 19:15.  Damping discussion@ 31:45.  Rant on trail brakingGuest:  Jake Fry owns a BMW R1250GS and wants to know whether he should spend the money to upgrade the suspension on his motorcycle.  He recognizes the importance of suspension and wants to set the bike up correctly for the riding he does.Discussion Points:1.  Is it worth the money to upgrade my suspension?2.  What is stiction?3.  How do I adjust sag?4.  What is damping?Key Takeaways:- People believe if they add preload and get up to the proper sag, they assume they're in good shape. That's not always correct.-  As good as traction control is these days, we still need to stay in-tune with what the technology does and also what it hides.- Riders don't realize the importance of having a riding style that prevents you from running too wide in a corner.-  Never, ever ride faster than you can see.References Made:Woody's Wheel WorksTouratech Extreme ShocksTractive SuspensionRace Tech SuspensionRace Tech's Motorcycle Suspension Bible (Thede/Parks)Wilbers Motorcycle Suspension TechnologyTrail Braking Presentation in New Zealand

IS ADJUSTABLE SUSPENSION WORTH THE COST? Suspension is undoubtedly one of the most critical aspects to your motorcycle, and many people talk about upgrading their suspension.  However, since the cost can be up to $7,000, it's important to know what upgraded suspension can do for your motorcycle, and whether you should invest in an upgrade.There is a narrow weight window for stock suspension, which is around 180lbs (rider and gear together).  Some people believe if they add preload and get the motorcycle up to proper sag, they're in good shape.  However, that may provide for a rough and unstable ride.  It's most important to have the right spring for your weight and riding style.  Manual adjustments to suspension are only important when you start riding aggressively on the street (in curves) and into dirt that challenges the bike.  Any upgrade to suspension from OEM will be a significant improvement for most people.@ 12:45.  Process of measuring sag on your motorcycle with a second person.@ 19:15.  Damping discussion@ 31:45.  Rant on trail brakingGuest:  Jake Fry owns a BMW R1250GS and wants to know whether he should spend the money to upgrade the suspension on his motorcycle.  He recognizes the importance of suspension and wants to set the bike up correctly for the riding he does.Discussion Points:1.  Is it worth the money to upgrade my suspension?2.  What is stiction?3.  How do I adjust sag?4.  What is damping?Key Takeaways:- People believe if they add preload and get up to the proper sag, they assume they’re in good shape. That’s not always correct.-  As good as traction control is these days, we still need to stay in-tune with what the technology does and also what it hides.- Riders don’t realize the importance of having a riding style that prevents you from running too wide in a corner.-  Never, ever ride faster than you can see.References Made:Woody’s Wheel WorksTouratech Extreme ShocksTractive SuspensionRace Tech SuspensionRace Tech's Motorcycle Suspension Bible (Thede/Parks)Wilbers Motorcycle Suspension TechnologyTrail Braking Presentation in New Zealand

IS ADJUSTABLE SUSPENSION WORTH THE COST? Suspension is undoubtedly one of the most critical aspects to your motorcycle, and many people talk about upgrading their suspension.  However, since the cost can be up to $7,000, it's important to know what upgraded suspension can do for your motorcycle, and whether you should invest in an upgrade.There is a narrow weight window for stock suspension, which is around 180lbs (rider and gear together).  Some people believe if they add preload and get the motorcycle up to proper sag, they're in good shape.  However, that may provide for a rough and unstable ride.  It's most important to have the right spring for your weight and riding style.  Manual adjustments to suspension are only important when you start riding aggressively on the street (in curves) and into dirt that challenges the bike.  Any upgrade to suspension from OEM will be a significant improvement for most people.@ 12:45.  Process of measuring sag on your motorcycle with a second person.@ 19:15.  Damping discussion@ 31:45.  Rant on trail brakingGuest:  Jake Fry owns a BMW R1250GS and wants to know whether he should spend the money to upgrade the suspension on his motorcycle.  He recognizes the importance of suspension and wants to set the bike up correctly for the riding he does.Discussion Points:1.  Is it worth the money to upgrade my suspension?2.  What is stiction?3.  How do I adjust sag?4.  What is damping?Key Takeaways:- People believe if they add preload and get up to the proper sag, they assume they're in good shape. That's not always correct.-  As good as traction control is these days, we still need to stay in-tune with what the technology does and also what it hides.- Riders don't realize the importance of having a riding style that prevents you from running too wide in a corner.-  Never, ever ride faster than you can see.References Made:Woody's Wheel WorksTouratech Extreme ShocksTractive SuspensionRace Tech SuspensionRace Tech's Motorcycle Suspension Bible (Thede/Parks)Wilbers Motorcycle Suspension TechnologyTrail Braking Presentation in New Zealand

RIDING WHILE HURTING: A TALK ON AGING Adapting to the realities of age is important in the ADV world, where it's too easy to get hurt if you're not developing the correct muscles, use the correct technique, or your bike is not ergonomically set up.  Fatigue while riding is likely to be a skill issue, a technique issue, or an ergonomic issue.  If it's none of those, then it will likely be a health or strength issue. Learn exercises to improve the strength of your midsection, lower back, legs, and triceps – those muscles that are critical for riding comfortably off-road.  Learn how to protect your back when picking up your bike. Riser Rant starts at 25:40.  Risers can make a mess out of a bike and people don't realize the consequences. Training Rant starts at 30:40.  Most other ADV instructors teach a specific, mechanical formula that does not take into account the individual needs of older clients. Guest:  David Beverstock lost both weight and strength from an extended stay at the hospital.   He reached out to Bret for advice on how to build his body back up - despite some bad vertebrae - so he doesn't get hurt while riding. Discussion Points: 1.  How do I get healthy to be a better rider? 2.  When do I need risers? 3.  Why should I use a partner to help lift my motorcycle? Key Takeaways: - The problem with risers is it puts riders in a bad position (hurts the back) or a dangerous position (whiskey throttle). - Most other ADV classes use a formula that doesn't take into account individual weaknesses, injuries, age, and bike setup. References: Kevin Muggleton/Redverz Tents Lone Rider vs. Mosko Moto Monkey Lift Short Rider

RIDING WHILE HURTING: A TALK ON AGING Adapting to the realities of age is important in the ADV world, where it’s too easy to get hurt if you’re not developing the correct muscles, use the correct technique, or your bike is not ergonomically set up.  Fatigue while riding is likely to be a skill issue, a technique issue, or an ergonomic issue.  If it’s none of those, then it will likely be a health or strength issue.Learn exercises to improve the strength of your midsection, lower back, legs, and triceps – those muscles that are critical for riding comfortably off-road.  Learn how to protect your back when picking up your bike. Riser Rant starts at 25:40.  Risers can make a mess out of a bike and people don’t realize the consequences.Training Rant starts at 30:40.  Most other ADV instructors teach a specific, mechanical formula that does not take into account the individual needs of older clients.Guest:  David Beverstock lost both weight and strength from an extended stay at the hospital.   He reached out to Bret for advice on how to build his body back up - despite some bad vertebrae - so he doesn't get hurt while riding.Discussion Points:1.  How do I get healthy to be a better rider?2.  When do I need risers?3.  Why should I use a partner to help lift my motorcycle?Key Takeaways:- The problem with risers is it puts riders in a bad position (hurts the back) or a dangerous position (whiskey throttle).- Most other ADV classes use a formula that doesn't take into account individual weaknesses, injuries, age, and bike setup.References:Kevin Muggleton/Redverz TentsLone Rider vs. Mosko MotoMonkey LiftShort Rider

RIDING WHILE HURTING: A TALK ON AGING Adapting to the realities of age is important in the ADV world, where it's too easy to get hurt if you're not developing the correct muscles, use the correct technique, or your bike is not ergonomically set up.  Fatigue while riding is likely to be a skill issue, a technique issue, or an ergonomic issue.  If it's none of those, then it will likely be a health or strength issue. Learn exercises to improve the strength of your midsection, lower back, legs, and triceps – those muscles that are critical for riding comfortably off-road.  Learn how to protect your back when picking up your bike. Riser Rant starts at 25:40.  Risers can make a mess out of a bike and people don't realize the consequences. Training Rant starts at 30:40.  Most other ADV instructors teach a specific, mechanical formula that does not take into account the individual needs of older clients. Guest:  David Beverstock lost both weight and strength from an extended stay at the hospital.   He reached out to Bret for advice on how to build his body back up - despite some bad vertebrae - so he doesn't get hurt while riding. Discussion Points: 1.  How do I get healthy to be a better rider? 2.  When do I need risers? 3.  Why should I use a partner to help lift my motorcycle? Key Takeaways: - The problem with risers is it puts riders in a bad position (hurts the back) or a dangerous position (whiskey throttle). - Most other ADV classes use a formula that doesn't take into account individual weaknesses, injuries, age, and bike setup. References: Kevin Muggleton/Redverz Tents Lone Rider vs. Mosko Moto Monkey Lift Short Rider

How To Choose A Motorcycle Class Washington State has two state-approved motorcycle basic rider education curriculums.  One is through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and the other is the Motorcycle Education Program (MEP), which Bret wrote for Puget Sound Safety.  There are some major differences between the two curricula: The MSF courses are formulaic, structured, and linear while the MEP courses are flexible, adaptable, and offer students the opportunity to self-correct.  In addition, the MEP course have increased student volume by 25%.  To best choose a class, choose the one that supports your particular learning style. Guest:  Kevin Tusler has embarked on his second career; from retiring as the vice president for a project management company to a full-time motorcycle instructor. Discussion Points: 1.  Why doesn't Bret teach advanced classes? 2.  What should I look for in a motorcycle training school? 3.  Does the student/instructor ratio of the motorcycle training class matter? Key Takeaways: - How are people supposed to improve if they don't know what the goal is? - If you understand why you were successful, then you can replicate that success in the future. - People underestimate the value of humor while learning. References: Evergreen Safety Council Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Motorcycle Education Program

How To Choose A Motorcycle Class Washington State has two state-approved motorcycle basic rider education curriculums.  One is through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and the other is the Motorcycle Education Program (MEP), which Bret wrote for Puget Sound Safety.  There are some major differences between the two curricula: The MSF courses are formulaic, structured, and linear while the MEP courses are flexible, adaptable, and offer students the opportunity to self-correct.  In addition, the MEP course have increased student volume by 25%.  To best choose a class, choose the one that supports your particular learning style. Guest:  Kevin Tusler has embarked on his second career; from retiring as the vice president for a project management company to a full-time motorcycle instructor. Discussion Points: 1.  Why doesn't Bret teach advanced classes? 2.  What should I look for in a motorcycle training school? 3.  Does the student/instructor ratio of the motorcycle training class matter? Key Takeaways: - How are people supposed to improve if they don't know what the goal is? - If you understand why you were successful, then you can replicate that success in the future. - People underestimate the value of humor while learning. References: Evergreen Safety Council Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Motorcycle Education Program

How To Choose A Motorcycle Class Washington State has two state-approved motorcycle basic rider education curriculums.  One is through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and the other is the Motorcycle Education Program (MEP), which Bret wrote for Puget Sound Safety.  There are some major differences between the two curricula: The MSF courses are formulaic, structured, and linear while the MEP courses are flexible, adaptable, and offer students the opportunity to self-correct.  In addition, the MEP course have increased student volume by 25%.  To best choose a class, choose the one that supports your particular learning style. Guest:  Kevin Tusler has embarked on his second career; from retiring as the vice president for a project management company to a full-time motorcycle instructor. Discussion Points: 1.  Why doesn't Bret teach advanced classes? 2.  What should I look for in a motorcycle training school? 3.  Does the student/instructor ratio of the motorcycle training class matter? Key Takeaways: - How are people supposed to improve if they don't know what the goal is? - If you understand why you were successful, then you can replicate that success in the future. - People underestimate the value of humor while learning. References: Evergreen Safety Council Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Motorcycle Education Program

What can you expect as a new ADV rider? Many people who first start riding ADV bikes can credit their knowledge to riding dirt bikes as a child.  But what if this is the first time you've ridden anything in the dirt?  Learning what to expect as a new adventure rider is a subject that few instructors address.Australian rider, Robert Malpas, is a recent convert into the ADV world and he has some excellent insight into what beginning dirt riders think and feel when they're getting used to a new terrain under their tires.Editor's Error:  Several references are made towards Class 3 riders, including discussion on rookie, transitional, and proficient riders.  This refers to the Adventure Skill Rating System which serves to identify your skill level on different terrain.Discussion Points:1.  What can I expect when I first ride off-road?2.  What ideas are there for improving my fitness?3.  What ADV gear should I buy?4.  What advice do you have for improving my ADV skill level?Key Takeaways:If you're new, expect to hear a lot of advice but consider the source.Look for a common theme from reputable people.Expect to be uncomfortable with motorcycle movements.Be open to spending more on safety gear than your motorcycle (watch this video!).Be open to the idea that you may need other people around just in case.References:Adventure Skill Rating SystemPatreon

What can you expect as a new ADV rider? Many people who first start riding ADV bikes can credit their knowledge to riding dirt bikes as a child.  But what if this is the first time you've ridden anything in the dirt?  Learning what to expect as a new adventure rider is a subject that few instructors address.Australian rider, Robert Malpas, is a recent convert into the ADV world and he has some excellent insight into what beginning dirt riders think and feel when they're getting used to a new terrain under their tires.Editor's Error:  Several references are made towards Class 3 riders, including discussion on rookie, transitional, and proficient riders.  This refers to the Adventure Skill Rating System which serves to identify your skill level on different terrain.Discussion Points:1.  What can I expect when I first ride off-road?2.  What ideas are there for improving my fitness?3.  What ADV gear should I buy?4.  What advice do you have for improving my ADV skill level?Key Takeaways:If you’re new, expect to hear a lot of advice but consider the source.Look for a common theme from reputable people.Expect to be uncomfortable with motorcycle movements.Be open to spending more on safety gear than your motorcycle (watch this video!).Be open to the idea that you may need other people around just in case.References:Adventure Skill Rating SystemPatreon

What can you expect as a new ADV rider? Many people who first start riding ADV bikes can credit their knowledge to riding dirt bikes as a child.  But what if this is the first time you've ridden anything in the dirt?  Learning what to expect as a new adventure rider is a subject that few instructors address.Australian rider, Robert Malpas, is a recent convert into the ADV world and he has some excellent insight into what beginning dirt riders think and feel when they're getting used to a new terrain under their tires.Editor's Error:  Several references are made towards Class 3 riders, including discussion on rookie, transitional, and proficient riders.  This refers to the Adventure Skill Rating System which serves to identify your skill level on different terrain.Discussion Points:1.  What can I expect when I first ride off-road?2.  What ideas are there for improving my fitness?3.  What ADV gear should I buy?4.  What advice do you have for improving my ADV skill level?Key Takeaways:If you're new, expect to hear a lot of advice but consider the source.Look for a common theme from reputable people.Expect to be uncomfortable with motorcycle movements.Be open to spending more on safety gear than your motorcycle (watch this video!).Be open to the idea that you may need other people around just in case.References:Adventure Skill Rating SystemPatreon

Are you Miscalculating your adv skills? Paul Solomonson, dueling counterpart in the recent video "Mosko Moto vs Lone Rider", talks with Bret about rating yourself as an ADV rider and some of the common ways riders miscalculate their skill level.Paul Solomonson works with Bret across the United States in teaching ADV training classes.  He is also a state-certified motorcycle and driving instructor and has taught advanced motorcycle skills in the Military Mentor Training courses for the U.S. Army.Editor's Note: There may be a couple obscenities scattered throughout, but they were worth keeping in.Discussion Points:1.  How good am I as an ADV rider?2.  How difficult is a particular trail?3.  How do I rate my skills?4.  Are faster people better than I am at riding?5.  What does "Experts Only" mean and if I survive it, am I an expert?Key Takeaways:-  Don't find the limits of your bike while you're on a trip-  Those who shouldn't be giving advice are often the first ones to do so-  Having to be honest with yourself is one of the hardest things to doReferences Made in the Podcast:Adventure Skill Rating SystemLone Rider Motobags vs Mosko Moto Backcountry PanniersLearn at Home

Are you Miscalculating your adv skills? Paul Solomonson, dueling counterpart in the recent video "Mosko Moto vs Lone Rider", talks with Bret about rating yourself as an ADV rider and some of the common ways riders miscalculate their skill level.Paul Solomonson works with Bret across the United States in teaching ADV training classes.  He is also a state-certified motorcycle and driving instructor and has taught advanced motorcycle skills in the Military Mentor Training courses for the U.S. Army.Editor's Note: There may be a couple obscenities scattered throughout, but they were worth keeping in.Discussion Points:1.  How good am I as an ADV rider?2.  How difficult is a particular trail?3.  How do I rate my skills?4.  Are faster people better than I am at riding?5.  What does "Experts Only" mean and if I survive it, am I an expert?Key Takeaways:-  Don't find the limits of your bike while you're on a trip-  Those who shouldn't be giving advice are often the first ones to do so-  Having to be honest with yourself is one of the hardest things to doReferences Made in the Podcast:Adventure Skill Rating SystemLone Rider Motobags vs Mosko Moto Backcountry PanniersLearn at Home

Are you Miscalculating your adv skills? Paul Solomonson, dueling counterpart in the recent video "Mosko Moto vs Lone Rider", talks with Bret about rating yourself as an ADV rider and some of the common ways riders miscalculate their skill level.Paul Solomonson works with Bret across the United States in teaching ADV training classes.  He is also a state-certified motorcycle and driving instructor and has taught advanced motorcycle skills in the Military Mentor Training courses for the U.S. Army.Editor's Note: There may be a couple obscenities scattered throughout, but they were worth keeping in.Discussion Points:1.  How good am I as an ADV rider?2.  How difficult is a particular trail?3.  How do I rate my skills?4.  Are faster people better than I am at riding?5.  What does "Experts Only" mean and if I survive it, am I an expert?Key Takeaways:-  Don't find the limits of your bike while you're on a trip-  Those who shouldn't be giving advice are often the first ones to do so-  Having to be honest with yourself is one of the hardest things to doReferences Made in the Podcast:Adventure Skill Rating SystemLone Rider Motobags vs Mosko Moto Backcountry PanniersLearn at Home

Top Tips for Adventure Camping You don't need to travel far and wide to be an ADV motorcyclist, nor do you need to travel with an expensive motorcycle.  Adventuring is about travel, discovering, and wandering, and these tips will help make your next adventure smoother.

Top Tips for Adventure Camping You don't need to travel far and wide to be an ADV motorcyclist, nor do you need to travel with an expensive motorcycle.  Adventuring is about travel, discovering, and wandering, and these tips will help make your next adventure smoother.

Top Tips for Adventure Camping You don't need to travel far and wide to be an ADV motorcyclist, nor do you need to travel with an expensive motorcycle.  Adventuring is about travel, discovering, and wandering, and these tips will help make your next adventure smoother.

Does Motorcycle Training Create Safer Riders? Does motorcycle safety training really teach what it's intended to teach?  In this episode, Bret Tkacs speaks with Chris Johnson, owner of Washington Motorist Safety Training, about whether motorcycle safety education is real or a myth.  Does training actually make safer riders?  Enjoy this dynamic podcast where two energetic personalities discuss rider skill vs. rider behavior, the culture of riding, and the need to be able to make mistakes. For more reading, look through Art Friedman's article on the effectiveness of motorcycle training.  Also, watch Bret's talk in New Zealand on why motorcyclists crash.

Does Motorcycle Training Create Safer Riders? Does motorcycle safety training really teach what it's intended to teach?  In this episode, Bret Tkacs speaks with Chris Johnson, owner of Washington Motorist Safety Training, about whether motorcycle safety education is real or a myth.  Does training actually make safer riders?  Enjoy this dynamic podcast where two energetic personalities discuss rider skill vs. rider behavior, the culture of riding, and the need to be able to make mistakes. For more reading, look through Art Friedman's article on the effectiveness of motorcycle training.  Also, watch Bret's talk in New Zealand on why motorcyclists crash.

Does Motorcycle Training Create Safer Riders? Does motorcycle safety training really teach what it's intended to teach?  In this episode, Bret Tkacs speaks with Chris Johnson, owner of Washington Motorist Safety Training, about whether motorcycle safety education is real or a myth.  Does training actually make safer riders?  Enjoy this dynamic podcast where two energetic personalities discuss rider skill vs. rider behavior, the culture of riding, and the need to be able to make mistakes. For more reading, look through Art Friedman's article on the effectiveness of motorcycle training.  Also, watch Bret's talk in New Zealand on why motorcyclists crash.

What's GOING ON WITH Jesse Luggage? Jesse Luggage is now owned by Jared Maxfield who is revitalizing the brand into Jesse Adventures: a one-stop resource for the ADV community.  In this podcast, Bret and Jared discuss what it's like being one of the few hard pannier distributors in the United States, the competition in the ADV luggage market, and the pros and cons of putting hard panniers onto your ADV bike.  If you've never heard of Jesse Luggage or you're a diehard fan, this is a podcast to listen to!

What's GOING ON WITH Jesse Luggage? Jesse Luggage is now owned by Jared Maxfield who is revitalizing the brand into Jesse Adventures: a one-stop resource for the ADV community.  In this podcast, Bret and Jared discuss what it's like being one of the few hard pannier distributors in the United States, the competition in the ADV luggage market, and the pros and cons of putting hard panniers onto your ADV bike.  If you've never heard of Jesse Luggage or you're a diehard fan, this is a podcast to listen to!

What's GOING ON WITH Jesse Luggage? Jesse Luggage is now owned by Jared Maxfield who is revitalizing the brand into Jesse Adventures: a one-stop resource for the ADV community.  In this podcast, Bret and Jared discuss what it's like being one of the few hard pannier distributors in the United States, the competition in the ADV luggage market, and the pros and cons of putting hard panniers onto your ADV bike.  If you've never heard of Jesse Luggage or you're a diehard fan, this is a podcast to listen to!

In this episode, Jesse Pacht discusses some essential first aid tips that adventure riders should know prior to going on an ADV ride.  Adventure riders are often beyond cell service or immediate help.  Discover how to prepare mentally, determine what essential items belong in your first aid kit, and learn how to prevent accidents before they occur.

In this episode, Jesse Pacht discusses some essential first aid tips that adventure riders should know prior to going on an ADV ride.  Adventure riders are often beyond cell service or immediate help.  Discover how to prepare mentally, determine what essential items belong in your first aid kit, and learn how to prevent accidents before they occur.

In this episode, Jesse Pacht discusses some essential first aid tips that adventure riders should know prior to going on an ADV ride.  Adventure riders are often beyond cell service or immediate help.  Discover how to prepare mentally, determine what essential items belong in your first aid kit, and learn how to prevent accidents before they occur.

ADV MOTORCYCLE EDUCATION A discussion about the value of motorcycle education for ADV riders. Greg DiBernardo and I chat about how you can learn on your own, using resources that you can find for free. We also discuss how much professional training should cost and its value, whether it is hype or worth the time and money. Understanding what level of training to invest in is only part of the solution; we talk about how to differentiate between a rider who is an instructor vs the master of the subject you are seeking to learn.

ADV MOTORCYCLE EDUCATION A discussion about the value of motorcycle education for ADV riders. Greg DiBernardo and I chat about how you can learn on your own, using resources that you can find for free. We also discuss how much professional training should cost and its value, whether it is hype or worth the time and money. Understanding what level of training to invest in is only part of the solution; we talk about how to differentiate between a rider who is an instructor vs the master of the subject you are seeking to learn.

What inspires Bret In a twist of tradition, I get interviewed by another podcaster from South Africa (JJ le Roux from Gravel Travel) about my background and what drives me to train riders. I ramble on about what inspires me as a motorcycle educator while providing tips on finding instructors that will inspire you to become better.  Discover why I dedicate so much time helping riders become better.