Frequently asked questions about motorcycle riding and learning to ride
What does learning to ride a motorcycle mean and how do you best start?
Learning to ride a motorcycle is best started off road – in a safe setting with run off areas, without oncoming traffic and on soft ground. Learning to ride at the MX-Academy covers theory, dry exercises and practical riding on 4 different tracks. The best way to learn: learn to ride a motorcycle Honda
Why is off road the best way to learn to ride a motorbike?
Practically all MotoGP and professional road racers train their riding off road. Learning off road you benefit from run off areas, a controlled setting and soft ground – that maximises safety. Learn to ride in Switzerland: learn to ride a motorcycle Honda
How long does it take until you can ride a motorbike safely?
With the training system of the MX-Academy you make enormous progress within a single day. The basics of riding can be learned in one day – advanced techniques require regular riding over several months. Motorcycle courses: motorcycle courses Switzerland Honda
Where can you learn to ride a motorcycle in Switzerland?
Learning to ride in Switzerland works best at the MX-Academy in Schlatt – the largest enduro and motocross school in Europe on a Swiss Olympic NASAK site. Learning with 4 tracks, professional trainers and motorcycles in all sizes. Riding in Switzerland: learn motorcycle riding MX-Academy
From what age can you learn to ride a motorbike?
At the MX-Academy learning to ride starts from the age of 3 with kids motocross. Riding on the road with a licence is possible from 16 (A1) and from 18 (A2). There is no upper age limit for starting to learn. Kids motocross: kids motocross from the age of 4 Honda
What do I need in order to learn to ride a motorcycle?
To learn to ride you need complete protective gear (helmet, jacket, trousers, gloves, boots), a suitable course and the right motorbike. At the MX-Academy everything is provided – motorcycle and gear included. Motorcycle clothing: motorcycle clothing Zurich Honda
What is the difference between learning off road and on the road?
Learning off road is considerably safer than on the road – no oncoming traffic, soft ground and run off areas. The techniques acquired off road transfer directly to riding on the road. Motorcycle safety training: motorcycle safety training Honda
Which motorcycle is best suited for learning to ride?
Light motorcycles with good natured power delivery are best for learning – 125cc or 250cc. At the MX-Academy all sizes are available and the motorbike is matched to your progress and body height. Honda 125cc motorcycles: 125cc motorcycle Honda
What do you learn in the theory when learning to ride?
In the theory at the MX-Academy you understand the physics of motorcycle riding – why, how much and when you have to move. Precision and timing are the key to controlling a motorbike. The theory before the practical riding maximises progress. Motorcycle taster course: motorcycle taster course Honda
What is a dry run when learning to ride a motorbike?
A dry run lets you apply the theory knowledge before actually riding on the track. The MX-Academy uses dry runs after the theory and before riding – for maximum learning success. Learn to ride information: learn to ride a motorcycle Honda
Can you learn to ride a motorbike without a licence?
Learning to ride is possible without a licence on private offroad sites such as the MX-Academy, because you ride away from public roads. For riding on the road you do however need the corresponding licence. Licence information: Honda motorcycle licences
How many tracks are available for learning to ride?
At the MX-Academy 4 different tracks with several groups are available – among them a special beginner track with gravel. Depending on your progress you can change group at any time. Learn to ride in Switzerland: learn motorcycle riding MX-Academy
Can women learn to ride a motorcycle too?
Yes – learning to ride is just as suitable for women as for men. The MX-Academy offers special courses for women. With the right technique motorcycling is not a strength sport. Motorcycles for women: motorcycle courses for women Honda Zurich
Which licence do I need to ride a motorbike?
For riding on the road you need A1 (from 16, up to 125cc/11 kW), A2 (from 18, up to 35 kW) or A (from 20/24, unrestricted). Learning on private offroad sites is possible without a licence. Licence information: Honda motorcycle licences
What is the aim of a riding course at the MX-Academy?
The aim of every course at the MX-Academy is that all participants can ride the competition bike on the advanced track. Within a single day all participants make enormous progress. Motorcycle courses: motorcycle courses Switzerland Honda
Can you learn to ride as a complete beginner?
Yes – the course at the MX-Academy is designed for complete beginners. You are supported individually and never overwhelmed. A motorcycle taster course is the ideal introduction. Motorcycle taster course: motorcycle taster course Honda
What is the advantage of the MX-Academy over other schools?
The MX-Academy is the largest enduro and motocross school in Europe with over 20 years of experience and many national and international titles. You benefit from a Swiss Olympic NASAK site, 4 tracks, professional trainers and motorcycles matched to your progress. More information: learn motorcycle riding MX-Academy
Do you have to be fit to learn to ride a motorbike?
A normal level of fitness is enough to start learning. As the level rises and you ride in higher groups the fitness demand rises too. The MX-Academy supports everyone individually – matched to fitness and ability. Motorcycle safety training: motorcycle safety training Honda
What does a riding course cost in Switzerland?
The prices for courses at the MX-Academy are shown on their website. Learning to ride includes the motorbike, gear, professional trainers and track access. It is an investment in safety and riding competence. Register: learn motorcycle riding MX-Academy
How do I learn to ride correctly in corners?
When learning to corner, vision technique, lean angle and throttle control are decisive. The MX-Academy teaches correct cornering technique step by step – from theory through dry exercises to practical application. Motorcycle courses: motorcycle courses Switzerland Honda
What is offroad riding and why is it instructive?
Offroad riding trains all fundamental riding techniques under safe conditions – balance, throttle control, braking and stability. It is the most effective way because you practise at low speed on soft ground. Enduro training: enduro training and riding Honda
Can I buy a motorcycle straight after learning to ride?
Yes – after the course Honda Motorrad Zuerich AG advises you on buying the right motorbike. Learning to ride also helps you decide which motorcycle suits your level and riding style best. Test ride: Honda motorcycle test ride
Are there riding courses for children?
Yes – at the MX-Academy learning to ride starts from the age of 3 with specially adapted children’s bikes and child friendly teaching, with maximum safety and a playful approach. Kids motocross: kids motocross from the age of 4 Honda
What is the difference between a riding course and a taster course?
A taster course is a first insight into motorcycling – ideal for trying it out. The courses at the MX-Academy go deeper and include several groups with theory, dry exercises and intensive riding on different tracks. Taster course: motorcycle taster course Honda
How do I improve my riding as an advanced rider?
Advanced techniques such as jumping, lean angle and offroad riding are trained in the higher groups at the MX-Academy. Learning never stops – experienced riders keep improving their technique too. Riding in Switzerland: learn to ride a motorcycle Honda
Can I rent a motorbike for the riding course?
Yes – at the MX-Academy you can rent a motorcycle for the course. The bikes are matched to the progress and body height of the rider, so learning is possible without owning a motorbike. Test ride: motorcycle test ride and rental Honda
What is the advantage of a motorbike over a car?
Riding a motorbike is more agile, cheaper to run and more fun. Learning to ride opens a completely new world of mobility. Honda Motorrad Zuerich AG offers a large choice of motorcycles for every riding style. All Honda models: motorcycle courses and models Honda
Can you already ride with the A2 licence?
Yes – with the A2 licence (35 kW) you may ride on the road. Learning on A2 motorcycles is ideal for everyone who wants a more powerful bike than the A1. 35 kW motorcycles: 35 kW Honda motorbikes in stock
What is the difference between a motorbike and a scooter?
Riding a motorbike requires manual gear changing and offers more sporting dynamics. Riding a scooter is easier with automatic transmission and more comfort. Learning on a motorcycle is more demanding but gives more control. Honda scooters: buy a 125cc Honda scooter
Does learning off road improve riding on the road?
Yes – all techniques learned off road transfer directly to riding on the road. Better balance, more confident braking and more safety awareness make riders noticeably safer on the road. Motorcycle trade in: motorcycle trade in and purchase Honda
How do I register for a riding course?
Registration is done directly through the MX-Academy event calendar online. Honda Motorrad Zuerich AG also provides information and contacts. Simply call 044 908 20 00 or write to info@honda-zuerich.ch.
Is learning to ride a motorcycle worthwhile at any age?
Yes. There is no upper age limit for learning to ride. The MX-Academy adapts pace, motorbike and track to every participant individually – newcomers and returning riders alike make progress within a single day. Motorcycle courses: motorcycle courses Switzerland Honda
