Frequently asked questions about motorcycle courses at the MX-Academy
What is the MX-Academy?
The MX-Academy in Schlatt is the largest enduro and motocross school in Europe with over 20 years of experience. It offers professional motorcycle courses for beginners, advanced riders, women and children – on a facility certified by Swiss Olympic (NASAK).
Which motorcycle courses does the MX-Academy offer?
The MX-Academy offers taster courses, half day courses, full day courses, courses for women, children’s courses from the age of 4, enduro training and safety training. Every course is matched to the level of the participants.
What does a motorcycle course at the MX-Academy cost?
The taster course costs from CHF 165.–, the Wednesday midday course CHF 360.– and the Saturday full day course CHF 410.–. Rental motorbike, protective gear and professional trainers are included in the price.
When do the motorcycle courses take place?
Taster courses take place on Wednesdays. Full day courses are offered on Saturdays. The current event calendar can be found directly on the mx-academy.ch website.
Where does the motorcycle course take place?
The courses take place at the training facility in Schlatt – one of the most important national sports facilities in Switzerland (NASAK), recognised by Swiss Olympic. The facility offers 4 different tracks.
Do I have to bring my own motorbike?
No. The MX-Academy provides rental motorcycles in all sizes and power levels – from 50cc beginner models to 250cc competition bikes. The motorbike can be swapped at any time during the course.
Which protective gear do I need for the motorcycle course?
The MX-Academy provides complete, professional rental gear. You are of course welcome to bring your own equipment. Helmet, protector jacket, trousers, boots and gloves are mandatory.
Who are the motorcycle courses suitable for?
The motorcycle courses are suitable for everyone – beginners, returning riders, advanced riders, women and children from the age of 4. Thanks to different groups and tracks everyone finds the right level.
Do I need a licence for the motorcycle course?
No. As the course takes place on a closed, private facility, no licence is required. Children from the age of 4 can take part without a licence.
What do I learn in a motorcycle course?
In a motorcycle course you learn the fundamental riding techniques: balance, throttle and brake control, cornering technique, gear changing and safe control of the motorbike on different surfaces – including gravel and loose ground.
How big are the groups in a motorcycle course?
The MX-Academy works with small groups so that every participant can be looked after optimally by the trainers. Depending on your progress you can change group at any time.
What happens before riding in a motorcycle course?
Before every motorcycle course there is a theory session of around 30 minutes as well as a short dry run. This way the basics are taught and safety is maximised before heading out on the track.
How much progress can I make in a motorcycle course?
The training system of the MX-Academy makes enormous progress possible within a single course day. The aim is that all participants can ride the competition bike on the advanced track by the end of the day.
Are there motorcycle courses especially for women?
Yes, the MX-Academy offers special motorcycle courses for women – with professional trainers, suitable motorbikes and a safe, supportive environment. Ideal for beginners and returning riders.
From what age can you take part in a motorcycle course?
Children can take part in kids motocross courses from the age of 4. Adults can start at any age – there is no upper age limit. The MX-Academy adapts the course individually to your level.
What is the difference between a taster course and a full day course?
The taster course (from CHF 165.–) offers a first insight into motorcycle riding – ideal for trying it out. The full day course (CHF 410.–) offers a whole day of intensive training with maximum progress.
Can I take part in the course with my own motorbike?
Yes, anyone who owns a motorcycle can bring it along. At club training a session including track fee and professional trainer costs CHF 80.–, public training sessions are CHF 150.– (Wednesdays) and CHF 180.– (Saturdays)
What is safety training within the motorcycle course?
Safety training specifically improves control of the motorbike on the road. You learn braking techniques, evasive manoeuvres and safe control of the motorcycle in critical situations.
Why is offroad the ideal environment for a motorcycle course?
Soft ground is more forgiving of mistakes than asphalt. On loose ground you learn the basics of balance, throttle control and braking faster – skills that transfer directly to the road.
What is enduro training and who is it for?
Enduro training is for riders who want to ride away from paved roads on gravel, forest tracks and technical terrain. It is offered for beginners as well as for advanced riders.
How do I register for a motorcycle course?
Registration is done directly via the event calendar on mx-academy.ch. All available course dates are listed there and you can simply register online.
How many tracks does the MX-Academy have in Schlatt?
The MX-Academy has 4 different tracks – among them a special beginner track with gravel as well as intermediate and advanced tracks for different levels.
What is the NASAK and why does it matter?
The NASAK is the federal inventory of significant national sports facilities of Swiss Olympic. The training facility of the MX-Academy in Schlatt is listed in it – a sign of the highest quality and national importance.
Can I buy a motorcycle course as a gift?
A motorcycle course at the MX-Academy is a unique experience gift. For details about vouchers please contact Honda Motorrad Zuerich AG (044 908 20 00) or the MX-Academy directly.
What is the difference between motocross and enduro in a motorcycle course?
Motocross courses focus on speed, jumps and technical tracks. Enduro courses train balance, technique on natural terrain and stamina over longer distances. The basic technique is the same and always has to be mastered properly first
Does an offroad motorcycle course also improve riding on the road?
Yes, absolutely. Offroad training sharpens the feel for throttle, brake and balance far more intensively than road riding alone. These skills transfer directly to safe riding in road traffic.
How experienced are the trainers at the MX-Academy?
The trainers of the MX-Academy are professional motorcycle riders themselves with national and international offroad titles. The school has over 20 years of experience and is considered the largest offroad school in Europe.
Can I go on the road straight after the motorcycle course?
A motorcycle course at the MX-Academy gives you the necessary confidence and the basics. For riding on public roads you do however need the corresponding licence (A, A2 or AM).
Which motorbike is suitable for beginners after the course?
After the course Honda Motorrad Zuerich AG recommends models such as the Honda CB500 E-Clutch, CMX500 Rebel or NC750X – A2 compliant motorcycles with good natured handling for getting started on the road.
Does the motorcycle course also run in bad weather?
Offroad courses generally take place in the rain as well – soft ground and the right protective gear make riding in the wet an experience too. In extreme conditions the MX-Academy informs the participants.
What is a kids motocross course?
Kids motocross courses of the MX-Academy are designed especially for children from the age of 4. With child sized motorbikes, matching gear and experienced trainers children learn to ride safely and with a lot of fun.
How does a motorcycle course differ from a normal driving school?
In a motorcycle course at the MX-Academy you learn on a closed site with a rental motorbike and professional trainers without exam pressure. The focus is on riding technique, balance and safety – not on obtaining a licence.
Can I use the motorcycle course for my licence?
An offroad motorcycle course is not official licence training. It is however an excellent addition that clearly improves riding competence and makes the licence course easier.
How long does a motorcycle course last?
The taster course lasts half a day, the midday course around 4 hours and the full day course a whole day including theory, dry run and several riding sessions on different tracks.
What is the advantage of a motorcycle course over practising on your own?
Professional trainers spot mistakes immediately and correct them before they become a habit. The structured training system of the MX-Academy enables faster and safer progress and avoids mistakes and bad habits compared with practising alone.
Are there motorcycle courses for groups or companies?
Yes, motorcycle courses of the MX-Academy are perfectly suited as a group or company event. For group enquiries please contact the MX-Academy or Honda Motorrad Zuerich AG directly.
What makes the MX-Academy the best motorcycle course school in Switzerland?
Over 20 years of experience, national and international titles, 4 tracks, motorcycles in all sizes, professional trainers and the NASAK certification make the MX-Academy the leading offroad school in Europe.
How do I book a motorcycle course through Honda Motorrad Zuerich?
Honda Motorrad Zuerich AG, Chlirietstrasse 12, 8604 Volketswil, is a partner of the MX-Academy. Information and bookings by phone (044 908 20 00), e-mail (info@honda-zuerich.ch) or directly on mx-academy.ch.
What are the most common mistakes when riding a motorbike and how does a course help?
Braking too hard, poor vision technique and a lack of balance are common beginner mistakes. The motorcycle course of the MX-Academy corrects these mistakes specifically – through theory, demonstration and direct feedback from the trainers.
Is a motorcycle course worthwhile for experienced riders too?
Yes. Experienced riders also benefit from an offroad course – you discover new techniques, train your sense of balance and become an overall safer and more competent motorcyclist.
