Archive for category: Experience

How to prepare for a Superbike-Coach track day

February 27, 2016/15 Comments/in About Superbike-Coach, Experience/by Can Akkaya

So here you are… doing a track day with us :-)

Mostly the rules are equally the same from one track day organizer to another, though they are slightly different in the detail- so check on this before you sign up. Since our track days are more track beginner orientated, you might check on what we are require and recommend to get prepared:

Signing up for a group

That’s pretty much your first challenge, isn’t it?! But don’t ya worry, we have plenty of options to make a confident pick. These are our recommendations and policies towards your level and bike you want to bring. Also to look at each group rules and restrictions gives you an idea where you personally feel most comfortable in:

C group : Intermediate and low experienced street/track riders- on touring/cruiser/sport bikes. Passing only on straights 5 feet buffer.
B group: Advanced and Intermediate street/track riders- sport/touring bikes. Passing 4 feet buffer.
B+ group: Experienced track and street riders- sport and race bikes beyond 500cc. Passing rule 4 feet buffer. Power wheelies OK.

Talk to us after 1 to 2 sessions if the group you’ve picked is not a good match so that we can change things for you. Then you might know why it was bad to pick a group based on where your friends are :-)

Check your Bike

You don’t need to be a mechanic to check these things on your bike- but we do recommend to have it checked by your garage or dealership early enough:

Check for oil moist or leaks under the bike and see oil filter and drain bolt are tight with a proper wrench.
Check your chain slag and set it right according to your manual
Check your brake pads and worn rotors. Also consider the age of your braking fluid
Check rest life of your tires. If you are worried about your tires: GO CHANGE THEM BEFORE YOU HEAD OUT (we have no tire service in the paddock because we believe that you are just hell of badly prepared coming with worn tires to the track). Besides knobby tires, we allow all tire types, because you should know best what they and you are capable of. Inform yourself for recommended tire pressures, because we don’t know.
Bring rain- or street bike tires if it supposed to rain. All track day events and organizers are- like ours- rain or shine, and nobody gives rain-checks!
Required is it to tape (painter tape is good) over mirrors- or remove them.
Suggested is it to tape over your speedometer. You do not need to know how fast you are. It is an unsafe distraction!
Suspension setup: Don’t waste time and money on this too much. A better rider would make 10-20 seconds less on your bike with the same setup. Just come out and have fun!
Required is it to remove action cameras on the helmet, but we tolerate mounting them to your bike. Please check if they sit tight, because we’ll keep them when they fall off :-)
Required is it to come with a full gas tank and to refill after 4 sessions! We are not tolerating a red flag for a empty gas tank, and we won’t trailer your bike until lunch break or after end of the track day.

Check your Gear

It is time to consider your PROTECTION- the motto… the more the better! Regular street rider gear is fine. Nobody else then yourself is responsible for a road rash you may get. In case you need to add some gear- once you’ve registered with Superbike-Coach- you’ll have access to great discounts by our sponsors. Take advantage of it!:

We accept leather OR textile as long pants and jacket are zip-able. If not zip-able or one-piece, you are required to have a back protector, but be aware that the Thunderhill staffs might take you out (this is not on us!). Nobody else but you is responsible for the road rash you’re getting. However, protectors are required in these areas: shoulders, elbows, and knees.
Required are ankle covering leather street or race boots. Cordura hiking boots or some ankle boots are not acceptable. Forma Boots USA holds a 20% off discount for our riders. Makes it to a no-brainer!
Gloves must be in a good condition, gauntlet style with closures are required.
Suggested are earplugs, which are making riding more enjoyable and makes it easier to concentrate
Helmet Requirements: Snell, BSI, DOT, or ECE R22.05 approved full face helmet (high impact tested). Helmets with any visible crash (beyond scratches!) damage will be rejected.

Until then…

I personally recommend NOT to look for videos to learn the track. Even if you find good once (I never did), you are on your own on the track, and the ‘video’ gets lost in your brain anyway. Also do not ask ‘specialists’ for the line… I run a line seminar at lunch break, after you warmed up with the track and know where the asphalt band goes so far. This is why we set up the lunch break early (noon). Also skip on ‘suspension specialists’. Your bike has resources you don’t know, and you have much more important things to think of… to ride the damn thang and to have fun! All of these things are just making you nuts and you can’t sleep anymore…

How to load and what to bring

The day finally has come, and you are ready to go. There are more ways to get your stuff to the track. Yes, riding your bike to the track will be fair enough to see if this is a hobby for you or not, but please check your options here as well:

To bring everything you need to the track has to be organized. A pickup truck or a trailer does the job. A U-Haul rental can help out maybe, because in case your bike brakes down- what then?! How to load a pick up truck and what it needs has been described in the article below.
Bring water, drinks & lunch to keep yourself hydrated and your energy up throughout the day. A ice chest is like a good friend
Bring the bike with a full gas tank but bring a extra fuel can. Fuel pumps are available at the track if needed, but pretty expensive.
A little canopy gives you some shade between your track sessions, and to have a camping chair helps to relax. Take your boots off, or even change completely helps me to re-center when I put my armor back on. Try it! Our Air Conditioned Clubhouse is a great place to hang out too.
If you have, bring Duct tape, bike stands, wrenches and other tools, tire gauge

When to go- Where to stay- What to do

Make your travel plans early with Google Maps so you know when to get there. You might also check for close by Hotels if your travel is long. The track does not allow camping in the paddock. If you do it anyway, you might get a bill from them! There is a place to camp right at the main gate though. However, be 15-30 minutes early to enter the gate, which opens at 7:00am with a long waiting line.

Registration and Tech inspection

Chat later, and walk up directly to the Clubhouse (!) to make your CHECK IN with us and to sign waivers which you’ve agreed upon online already. The staff will put a stamp on your hand which you need to enter tech inspection. Now you find quickly a spot in the paddock and set up and bring your bike (or two if you have) and helmet to our TECH INSPECTION where we look over what you should have done (above) in YOUR OWN INTEREST already. If you passed the inspection- our staff will put you a sticker on your bike(s) according to your group. You might have some time to chat now and to relax, but make sure you’ll be on time in the Clubhouse for the obligatory RIDERS MEETING AT 8:15am (no tolerance for missing it- no refund!).

While B+ and B group can leave the clubhouse- C group will have to stay to receive more instructions and to get prepared for our ‘Track newbie sightseeing track session’. After this you should gear up and check your tire pressure (see above). Have our time schedule and to listen to the radio announcements helps to not to miss your session. We are not responsible for this, so print out the time schedule below and watch the damn clock. Quick overview:

7:00am Gate opens

7:15 – 8:00am Check In open, in the Clubhouse

7:20 – 8:10am Tech Inspection open, at the Clubhouse

8:15am OBLIGATORY RIDERS BRIEFING, in the Clubhouse

9:00am Track sessions begin in 20 minute units with group B+, B, C till lunch break

1:00pm Lunch break

1.20pm Free Coach Seminar ‘Ideal Line West’, in the Clubhouse

2:00pm Track sessions continues in 20 minute units with B+, B, C till 5pm

5:00pm Track sessions end

5:30pm Gate closes

Download entire time schedule here: PRINT OUT time schedule, SBC track day 8/27/2023 [ddownload id=”9986″]

Your 1st session and tips

The time has come and you are rolling to our track entry, the hot-pits. You stop by the tent and check if the SBC sign is showing your group. Our staff will check if you are in the right group and if you are wearing the required gear. Zip it up and check you helmet strap. Don’t sneak out without proper gear… we’ll get you anyway and your track day is over. Wait for instructions of our staff, who are letting only four riders at a time out on the track in a 5 seconds frequency for a well spread.

Warning: A) If you try to sneak into other groups… Your day is done and you’ll be blacklisted! B) If we see you ‘teaching’… Your day is done.

And here are my tips to you directly!:

Turn on your brain from the first time out and don’t do the ‘street sightseeing’ thing. I’ve seen riders clocking up the entire track. Don’t be the guy and keep the damn thing rolling
Focus more to the FRONT and stay calculable for others on the throttle with both hands on the bar
Don’t change lines rapidly and NEVER do zig-zags to warm up tires
Don’t close the door on someone and do not release the brake… let the guy pass. You are not Marc Marquez!
For ‘the faster guy in the wrong group’: Be patient and don’t get frustrated. Stuff like that happen all the time and everywhere else too. You are might be in the right group when all the others had some more time to find their rhythm. If not… come and talk to us after your 2nd session and we’ll help to get you into a more suitable group if possible
For ‘the slower guy in the wrong group’: Be patient and don’t get mad. Stuff like that happen all the time and everywhere else too. You are might be in the right group when you get more familiar with everything and found your rhythm. If not… come and talk to us after your 2nd session and we’ll help to get you into a more suitable group if possible
Find your own rhythm, and don’t try to copy someone else rhythm. Relax and keep breathing. Have fun!
ATTEND MY LINE SEMINAR

Track Etiquette

Warning: If our staff pulls you out for violation… You take it ‘like a man’ and say ‘Yes Sir’, even if you get a mark onto your group sticker. If you argue with us- your day is done. If you get another one for an X- your day is done.

For all racers and sport enthusiasts, the information in these two subjects should be ingrained in your brain. Know all the flags and the procedures that go with each one. Know the pit in and pit out procedures and how to properly signal. Don’t have any doubts about these before you get to the track.

NO STUFFING! Let’s say you make a pass around a rider and cut back in front of him/her entering a turn. You think it’s a safe pass but the rider you just passed is having to grab the front brake to keep from hitting your tail section. You just STUFFED the rider. OR you make a pass and the rider has to change his/her line entering the turn. Again, you just STUFFED the rider. In both cases, you are violating our rules and we pull you out!

AGGRESSIVE RIDING! Aggressive riding is strictly prohibited at all of our events. This includes all groups. Our schools and track day groups are for riders to learn and enjoy themselves on the racetrack. This is not a race day or a timed qualifying practice. Forget lap times. There will be times on track when you have to give way to slower riders. Remember, you are there to have fun, not set a new track record.

FLAGS AND SIGNALS! Look back before you enter the track and do not go on the ideal line until it’s clear. Check back before you close the throttle and give a permanent left hand signal if you decide to exit the track. This are the standard flags set you need to obey at all times:

Faster Riders and Racers! The slower rider OWNS the track. Take time and make a smart decision on a passing and allow buffer according to the group. Be a role model, not a jerk!

NO BIKE CONTACT! In the event you make a mistake and make contact with another rider, you are done for the day.

Special Coach note: We pick out hooligans real quick. Zero tolerance and no mercy for violations ON AND OFF THE TRACK! This is a beginner orientated track day and you need to expect they won’t ride as you wish they would. Disrespect and ego are not welcome at Superbike-Coach events. Don’t get into fights with someone and let us know. Only then we can help!

Superbike-Coach conclusion: Don’t make a big deal out of it. Riding on a track is overrated and pretty much the same concept as you were riding your bike on the street. Other organizers promising you will lean much more in one track day as in a year of street riding. This is BS, unless you have someone showing you the right things to do on the track. Most confusing will be the gigantic width of the track and to be worried whats going on behind you. Try to cut this out and give a little trust in others. Just relax and have some fun.

Headcoach Can Akkaya, Superbike-Coach Corp

Cornering School FAQ ‘n’ Stuff

February 17, 2016/2 Comments/in About Superbike-Coach, Controversy, Experience/by Can Akkaya

Cornering School Day’s Clarified!

The ‘Cornering School Day’ program has been in the Superbike-Coach portfolio for almost 10 years now and it’s super popular- though, it seems that there are still some misunderstandings about what this program is actually. So this newsletter will clarify what my class is- what it delivers- and why this thing has been so popular, so that you need to ask yourself ‘What am I waiting for, and why should I look out for something else?!’.

This article will clarify all misunderstandings and aspects of this unique program, and will point you to the section of the newsletter where it’s going to be clarified. So go and switch back/forth to the newsletter blocks and come back here to read on the next point. Now let’s have a look at the “top ranked” misunderstanding first…

Superbike-Coach track: 13 challenging turns

About The Track

Some people saying without knowing that: “This track is too small- the track is too tight- the track is nothing for street riders- the track is nothing for track riders”. The ‘funny’ part of this is… most of them haven’t been there- ever! Those riders who was there know now, that there is no difference of the physics of riding you need to understand and to deliver. My track has everything what most street riders have to face every day… tight turns- switchbacks- left and rights- which is what most riders are having truly problems with… see the conflict?! I give all the keys to really take advantage of this track and to be in such control you probably never find somewhere else. Other than that I am able to stop you whenever I want and to point things out for you. Can I do that on a ‘big track’?… no I can’t. Also the short repeating frequency helps you to fix things. There are more advantages, but I don’t want to bore you, so keep going…

Superbike-Coach classes are entertaining

About The Coaching and Subjects

My coaching style is way different as you might know form other teachers. I’ve learned my stuff the tough way, all on my own. At this point I should mention that I was holding lap records, achieved Pole Positions, and won some races on International Pro level… oh, and I almost made it to the ‘Top Gun’… to MotoGP. I learned in 40 years of riding and being 11 years in professional European racing- that absolute honesty about a performance is key to get things done quickly and to stay healthy. My passion to show you how it’s done grows with your eager to learn. Yes I hate quitters- and I’m telling ya because I can see. I have a very specific way to make you listen for better understanding, and to make you doing things you’ve never done before with a “Yes Sir!”. So all I am teaching comes from 1^st hand… no copied stuff like other schools use to do. You think I show off with my background… heck why not, because some other totally overrated “coaches” coming up with 2 years of racing experience… in other words… no more than on regional amateur levels, so no wonder they don’t teach Trail Braking and counter steering properly- but I do!

superbike-coach free sport photography

The Amenities

There is nothing you could compare to our Cornering School Day events. We’re state of the art- even if we don’t come up with a high gloss painted 30 ton truck, and 30 traction-controlled liter bikes for an expensive rental fee. Does that make sense anyway… no, because you need to learn on your own bike, so that you are in your comfort zone quick- and your focus is not locked into a bike you’ve never used before, and you’ll never gonna use again! Oh, and we are taking care of our people. Whatever it is… coffee, water, snacks, pizza order… we’ve got you covered. But you know what really cool… that you don’t need to make such a huge deal of it to bring your own bike to a track. So no track specific bike preparation, and no track orientated gear necessary. Superbike-Coach photographer Dean Lonskey makes about 1500 pictures of our students on the track… FOR FREE. How do you use to call a total package for under 150 bux again?… a no-brainer!?

Coach Can instructing his student

The Idea

The concept of the CSD program is designed to make better riders. CSD-1, 2 and 3 are well spread all over the year so that it fits into everyone’s schedule. You pick when to keep going. The program is too big to fill in one day, and it will overwhelm students easily. The advantage is clear. Each day build onto the other, and there is plenty of time in-between to settle freshly learned skills. Once you’re coming back- you and your coach will notice your development and what to go over again. This is a key for a better coach/student connection as well. The website makes date picking easy:

GoldWing exclusive course

CSD Exclusive

We also can setup an entire CSD event exclusively for your motorcycle club, company or dealership. We’ve done this for many already, even for Google riders for example. Right now we have CSD Specials scheduled like- Cornering Gals, and Cornering GoldWings. So if you have a group of at least 25 riders… contact us and see what we can do for you guys.

Hundreds Of Testimonials

Still not sure if this is the right thing for you? Well- why not checking hundreds of 5 star reviews all over the internet and read yourself what others have experienced and why all of our 2015 classes were booked out! This must have a reason, don’t ya think?! :)

Click To View Testimonials

Yes I can’t reach everyone… nobody else can either! Nothing is perfect… how can it?! So give it at least a shot and join in to see if I can reach you- cuz’ if so- good things are going to happen.

Can Akkaya, Headcoach of the Superbike-Coach Corp

Man… 2015 was kinda short, wasn’t it?!

December 16, 2015/4 Comments/in About Racing, About Superbike-Coach, Announcement, Controversy, Experience/by Can Akkaya

Only one more month to go and we welcome a new year. Lots of things around Superbike-Coach happened in 2015, and it seems that it will keep going like this also in 2016. But let’s reflect this riding season a little bit first, which kind of ended with a dramatic MotoGP World Champion title for Jorge Lorenzo- even with a little support.

If you maybe think I am a Rossi, Lorenzo or Marquez fan- you would be very wrong. When I am watching a race, then it’s about their performances, which is not restricted to one single racer. I herd Rossi fans saying that Lorenzo does not deserve the title, which is non-sense because Jorge’s performance in the qualifying are showing that he would have make it with or without Marquez. In other words… he really earned that title because he made less mistakes. In fact, Rossi couldn’t go the pace of the trio ahead, which was going slower as they could go- so I don’t see why all the pain and the hate right now. I feel bad for Vale because I believe that his goal is it to at least equalize Giacomo Agostini’s record of 14 world champion titles, so I hope he keeps going for it.

Let’s see what Superbike-Coach has accomplished in 2015- and still has to with one more Cornering School Day 2 on 12/6/ to go. You can fence our 2015 in with one sentence… all classes Superbike-Coach ran were booked out, and waiting lists were growing on almost each class… and all of it by word-of-mouth!

Let’s think about this for a second what that means… Superbike-Coach must be kinda good, doesn’t it?! A bed of roses- or a walk in the park?… by far not. I can tell you stories what I’ve been through- oh man. I just drop some words… I got threatened, deceived, betrayed, and copied… many times. But I never surrendered and my students are coming back because they know that Superbike-Coach is different- is first hand stuff which makes them being the better rider. Basta! :-)

Our 2016 schedule is filling quickly with all kinds of classes, also two new programs- ‘Motorcycle Preparation Workshop‘ and ‘Track Days’, which is a gigantic risk. Both only once per year for now, so make your plans for it. Superbike-Coach will be also in 2016 different, unique and efficient…. promise!

I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance folks! See ya in 2016.

Headcoach Can Akkaya, Superbike-Coach

Recap last Sunday’s Wheelie Course

October 30, 2015/1 Comment/in About Superbike-Coach, Experience/by Can Akkaya

Also last Sunday’s Wheelie Course was booked out, and the 30 students couldn’t wait to begin. The Superbike-Coach team grew with its relatively complicated time schedule, and so we are happy that Gary Lonskey was in charge to coordinate three groups from one task to another.

“Unfortunately” we had to start half an hour later due to a CBS TV team for a ‘Good Morning Sacramento‘ live coverage. But our students took it easy because we just added the lost time.

About 65% is the succeed rate and I am still very impressed by some- and proud of all to make it out to pick the challenge. Our assistant coaches Rus and Vincent did a fantastic job as well as my wife Marion to coordinate my 1on1 students. Also Dean Lonskey, the Superbike-Coach photographer worked his butt off. Amazing team effort!

FREE OF CHARGE and ready to download for our students are Dean’s pics on our SBC Gallery. Below some featured shots:

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Headcoach Can Akkaya, Superbike-Coach Corp

Recap last Saturday’s Knee Down class

October 29, 2015/2 Comments/in About Superbike-Coach, Experience/by Can Akkaya

What a fantastic day it was.

The weather couldn’t have been any better, and my 20 students came in from pretty much everywhere. It turns out that there were riders trying to get that knee down for 5 years- and also other schools and track days… Superbike-Coach made about 70% of them achieving it in half a day, and the other 30% were damn close to get it done!

I’m very proud for those guys- even if they didn’t “made it”, because I felt their passion, respect, and eager to learn attitude. That’s what I am mainly looking for and love to work with.

Again… Superbike-Coach photographer Dean Lonskey did an amazing job and pictures trough out the day, and today I can announce that they are FREE OF CHARGE to download for our students on our SBC Gallery. Same goes for Assistant Coach Ruslan, who gave all he got to get students to the point. Below some featured pictures of another great class:

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Headcoach Can Akkaya, Superbike-Coach Corp

The Perfect Glove & Lever Adjustment

October 17, 2015/2 Comments/in About Racing, Experience/by Can Akkaya

Finding the right motorcycle glove can be time consuming, but I believe it’s worth it. I think most riders choosing the glove because of their looks. But design or even colors should be just a secondary thought. A high quality glove has its price, and yes I do understand that money is maybe a factor for you… but this goes kinda the same way you should pick a helmet, because a natural protective instinct makes us bringing our hands out to catch the fall, so you will crash in 90% assuredly right on your hands. Here is what a bad glove choice can do to us:

Needles and pins (uncomfortable, slow reaction time)
Bad quality (short life, leather cracks, bad protection)
Bad protectors (weak, wrong placed, open wrists = big time injuries)
Bad size choice (too small: slow reaction time. Too big: interferes with throttle and levers)
Bad features (sweating hands, uncomfortable, slow reaction time)

Axo USA is one of a few manufacturers I found who are delivering the full package. Their website offers sizing charts and lots of intermediate sizes to pick from.

Also their category description gives a good insight before you rush and take a purchase too easy. Spend your money wisely.

Our little video tutorial should below gives you a good idea what to look for in a glove, and how important it is to also set the levers to your needs.

How to adjust your levers the right way

Most riders are leaving the levers the way they are set from the factory, but I highly recommend to readjust them to your needs. I demonstrated in the second part of the video tutorial above, how essential especially the brake lever position can be. I actually forgot to mention that this even puts your hands and arms in a better angle to catch up G-forces under hard braking. Here is what we give away with wrong lever positions:

Too high: slow braking procedure, bad feeling for the braking
Too low: hard to reach when doing hanging off
Interferes fingers/levers

As mentioned- you’ll probably can’t just loose the bolts and simply twist each perch because most manufacturers having a pin set to avoid that for liability reasons of course. You need to remove each pin which is not a big deal at all. Have the right tools handy and be patient with your work. Set the levers in a straight line to your arms/fingers, and tighten up all bolts properly. You’ll find a much more relaxed riding position after spending some time with this.

Motorcycle Suspension Guide

October 16, 2015/1 Comment/in About Racing, Experience, Riding Tips From A Pro/by Can Akkaya

How To Setup A Motorcycle Suspension

There are lots of misunderstandings about how to setup a motorcycle suspension setup, and I’ve seen questionable work from even supposed specialists. Those specialists make riders believe that one click on the front rebound could lower lap times by 7 seconds… yep, I’ve really experienced this.

Stuff like this is totally off reality of course, especially as I still saw his bike bouncing around on Thunderhill Raceway- totally out of balance. In fact i believe that an intermediate to advanced rider don’t even feel the difference of even 15 clicks- especially not on a OEM suspension system.

If you would approach the setup with logic, you wouldn’t have to spend $50 bux to let an expert do some ‘big deal clicks’ on your stock rear shock, which are most of the time not even going nowhere. You don’t need to be nervous to do it yourself, because the range of an OEM suspension is just to small to make a significant change in terms of stability and safety of your bike.

To really make a significant change to match your riding style and purpose- you need to make rearrangements to the geometry of the bike, and then to match the suspension to this geometry… for example:

Super tight track: You want to drop the front end or to raise the rear a little
Long braking travels: You want to drop the rear right height to keep weights low
Long acceleration periods: add a chain link to use up chain adjuster recourse for a longer swing arm.

Please Note All Following Points

There is NO “perfect” suspension setup- only the’ best compromise. A setup grows with your rider level.
So when someone says “I’ve clicked you the same suspension setup as I gave to Valentino Rossi”, then this is logically not going to work for you well.
Use the potential of a OEM suspension first before you buy aftermarket stuff… then you really know what it is capable of.

OK, the link below will open an additional page which you can print out to bring it to the track. It’s just hat this page is too much for this section here, because it throws a light on how to set it up right, and how to trouble shoot. Enjoy:

Motorcycle Suspension Guide

Headcoach Can Akkaya

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 653 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Brian Wang 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience with Superbike Coach! I took both the Knee Down and Wheelie classes, and I really enjoyed both of them.

Can was an excellent instructor — very patient, professional, and easy to learn from. He explained everything clearly and gave helpful feedback throughout the classes, which made me feel much more confident on the bike.

Dean, the photographer, was also awesome. He captured a lot of great moments during the classes, and the photos turned out really nice.

All of the other staff members were friendly, helpful, and well organized as well. The whole experience was fun, professional, and definitely worth it.

Highly recommend Superbike Coach, and I’ll definitely be back for more classes!

Owner's reply
Thank you for your amazing and heartfelt review! We're thrilled you found value, confidence, and connection through the program. It's great to hear you felt supported, and we look forward to seeing your continued growth on the road.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Justin Van der mei 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I'm new to riding and was looking for a way to develop my skills and grow my confidence beyond the usual "watch it on  YouTube and try it on the streets" approach.   So I pulled the trigger and signed up for the day 1 cornering class.  I knew right away when coach started in on his introductory speech that I had made a great decision, and the rest of the day only continued to confirm that.   And not only was it full of highly valuable education,  it was fun as hell too!   I've signed up for the second day as well and can't wait. If you're reading this and still on the fence, please take my advice and do it; you'll be glad you did!
………………………………………………………………

Post Day 3 review:

I've been holding out on this one, mainly because I like to see coach Can squirm while waiting for his reviews to come in.
Mainly, though, I wanted to offer an honest and heartfelt review having completed all 3 days of cornering classes.
I can honestly say that I rode away from day 3 feeling more confident and better equipped to take on the challenges of the road.   That being said, this is a continuing learning process.  Coach offered us a variety of tools we can use; it's up to us to honor his teachings and practice all that we learned over those three days.   If not I fear he'll haunt our dreams and rip out our souls.
To add to all that, I really must talk about how welcoming and supportive the entire crew is.   They're all deeply invested in making sure that everyone is having a positive experience.   There's also a connection that forms over the course of the three sessions,  wherein, I believe, all the participants are made to feel "seen."  Not just random faces in a crowd, but members of a tribe.   That's one of the true beauties I found by the end of day three.
Much love and many thanks to entire superbike-coach team!

Owner's reply
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled you and your son enjoyed the classes and found them valuable. Your kind words mean a lot to Coach—looking forward to seeing you both back for more!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Miller 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My son and I completed the 3 day cornering classes. I can't thank Coach enough for everything we have learned. The classes were a blast and his passion for riders is top notch. We will definitely retake the classes again. Even if you have been riding for years, these classes will help you out more than you realize.

Keep it up Coach!

Owner's reply
Thank you for your detailed review and for sharing your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear how much you've gained from the classes. Your feedback about lunch is noted, and we'll work on improving it.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ralph Acosta 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Classes Taken(Will get updated periodically)
Cornering Day 1
Cornering Day 2
Cornering Day 3
Suspension

I have attended Cornering Day 1 of 3 and a Suspension class so far. I have already signed up for multiple other sessions with this team.  I am not necessarily a beginner, but I have not ridden in 13 years since my lowside.

I can wholeheartedly endorse this team and coach for what they have taught me so far. The skills I've learned here have made me more confident as a rider and taking care of my own machine. Track time is also very beneficial since it is the safer riding environment in order to up your skills.

As for the staff, they're all highly professional and are willing to take your questions and answer to the best of their ability. It is a large class, so you won't get 1 on 1's really, but there's an option for that if you want lol. So no complaints there.

Coach is very knowledgeable and does have a rough tongue, but I personally like that. If you don't have thick skin or can't take a joke, that's your problem. I came to these guys to learn and the knowledge I've gained is immense.

Go sign up now. Do your research on the classes. That 1 star review is a dude complaining cus a guy's skill level wasn't high enough but he went anyways to an advanced class. Go through the steps. Don't skip out and book Cornering Day 1 at least.

Edit:
Day 2. More advanced stuff. Remember stuff from first day or you'll be lacking. Body position was fun, but no pics of that?! Dawg! That was when I looked the coolest lol. Uber steering. Yeah, it works learn it. It'll be very useful. Counter-steering. Yes, Will for sure get better at it.

Edit 09/15/2026:
Cornering Day 3. Lots of new skills learned which could save you out there in the streets, as well as making you a faster and safer rider overall. Trail Braking, while I already was doing it, was better refined with the feedback, and practice I got in the class. This for sure will make you a safer rider overall. Learning to brake, emergency brake, during a lean. Oh yeah, this for sure can save your butt in the future. Completed all 3 days. I for sure will come back as a refresher annually at least. Practicing these techniques is what will hammer it into your muscle memory.

Note: The lunch could be better. I bring my own now lol.

Owner's reply
Thank you for sharing your experiences and enthusiasm! We're thrilled to hear how much you've gained from our classes and track days. It's great to see your growth as a rider, and we can't wait to welcome you back!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Schwartz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 2026:

There’s no reason to be content with your riding skill. Coach will help you unlock the rider you want to be. I’ve been riding since 2010 and in 2018 I started training with Coach Can. Days 1-3 are the real deal and you should sign up too. I went with 4 friends this year and we had an absolute blast! The focus is not about speed, it’s about being in control and proper technique, sited is a side effect of doing this right! Coach has taught me so much riding and life. If you want improvement to your riding, this is the class you need. New riders, veteran riders, it doesn’t matter your skill level, I promise you will learn new skills. I am a much safer rider now thanks to coach and will keep coming back to his classes and track days.

This is the best upgrade you can get for your bike!
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR??
LET’S RIDE!!!!

2018:
So far I’ve been in Cornering School Day 1, Track day at Thunderhill West, and the Suspension workshop/Track time and I have to say each program has been an absolute blast!

The skills and techniques I learned from Cornering School Day One will stay with me for the rest of my riding career! I now have more control and confidence with EVERY bike I ride. The cornering program is exactly the type of school I was looking for. Don’t waste your time and money with parking lots & cones, videos or books, get on the track with Can! He will show you the ways. If you're interested in improving your skills I HIGHLY recommend these classes. The free photography with every class is always awesome and  the memories great to look back on. They're is a reason they sell out quickly.

After Cornering School Day One I decided to try Track Day: Thunder Hill West, I was a little nervous but really excited to get on a large track for the first time. The atmosphere is welcoming to first timers so I didn’t feel out of place or intimidated and being able to apply the skills from day one was an absolute hoot. Taking corners knowing that there's no gravel, cars, trees, etc. and riding on a closed coursed with every corner being monitored and controled allowed me to ride the bike to a limit that I would never dare come near on the streets,  and that was just in C group! What are you waiting for? Go ride track!

Suspension Workshop/Track Time. Riding Little 99 is always a good time, but the Workshop is what really made it a great experience. Learing about what my bike is doing in a corner with it's suspension helped me better understand what exactly is going on underneath me everytime I swing a leg over.  It was awesome having help tailor my stock bike to make it a perfect fit for me  I had no idea how much I was missing out on with my bike. The adjustments made to my bike really improved to the ride quality, which translated to more control. I'm also very eager to apply the recommendations I was given for my bike's suspension.

Owner's reply
Thank you for sharing your detailed experience! We're thrilled the course helped refine your skills and mindset, and that you found value in both the instruction and camaraderie. Your insights will surely resonate with other riders seeking to grow.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Yi Xie 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I ride an S1000RR, and I got there by going from a 400cc cruiser to a liter bike in five years. Somewhere in that jump I picked up an ego and told myself I knew things. I didn't, which is why I signed up.

The bike is not the point at this school. The course is about skill, and one of the first things it made obvious is how slow I actually am. Not slow in a discouraging way, just measurably slow, with a lot of room left. I could feel the gap clearly for the first time, and now I want to close it.

Day 1 isn't really about "advanced" technique, though a few people did their first stoppie that day. It's about mindset. Coach Can spends real time on how to slow down in order to go fast, and on thinking critically instead of taking whatever the internet says is right or wrong. That framing carried past the parking lot and into how I approach things off the bike.

The vibe is the other thing worth mentioning. Supermoto, cruiser, Gold Wing, naked, sport bike, all in the same group, and nobody was made to feel out of place. A couple of people dropped their bikes and the coach team jumped in to help fix them. Shout out to Dean, who ran all over the lot hunting down a single nut so someone could keep riding.

And on Day 2 I got my result before lunch. I went in unable to get my knee down and came out of that first morning starting to actually do it, on top of real work on body positioning.

About Coach Can: he's direct in both directions. When you're doing something well, you know the praise is real. When you're making a mistake, he calls it out on the spot instead of letting you rehearse it for another twenty passes. Sitting through his instruction feels like old school stand up comedy with an enormous amount of practical riding technique baked in.

Riding has always been the thing that keeps my head in order, and I didn't expect a cornering school to add to that. It did. There's a surprising amount of life philosophy folded into the riding instruction, and it lands harder because it's attached to something physical you just did badly and then did better.

I'll be back, including for courses I've already taken, because there's obviously more in them than I could absorb the first time. If you're a rider who thinks he's got it figured out, this is a good place to find out otherwise.

Fair warning: it's a long day, it's physical, and if you don't like being corrected in front of other people, this isn't for you. That's also exactly why it works.

Owner's reply
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're so glad the personalized feedback and Can's guidance were helpful for you. Hearing your plans to continue with Cornering Days 1–3 is fantastic—happy riding and practice!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jay Reganti 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I took the Road Skills 1-on-1 class last week and had a great experience. The personalized feedback was easily the most valuable part of the class.

We started with parking lot drills, U-turns, and braking practice, where Can’s tips on proper and emergency braking were really helpful. We then moved onto twisty roads and worked on vision, lines, late apexes, and cornering techniques.

As a returning rider after almost a decade away from motorcycles, the class helped me identify specific areas I need to improve and gave me a lot to practice going forward. Can has a wealth of riding knowledge, and getting one-on-one feedback on my actual riding and mistakes was extremely valuable.

I highly recommend the Road Skills class to anyone looking to improve their street riding. I enjoyed it enough that I’m already planning to take Cornering Days 1–3!

Owner's reply
Thank you for sharing such an in-depth and honest review! We're thrilled to hear Coach Akkaya's approach made such a meaningful impact on your confidence and learning journey. Your insights will surely inspire others considering starting their motorcycle adventure!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Heman Perdomo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 'll give my honest opinion from a 34-year-old who has absolutely never ridden a motorcycle in my life and was pretty sure I never would. I took the one-on-one with Coach Akkaya. When you meet the coach, if you are a complete noob like myself, you might feel a bit intimidated. The dude has a very extensive background in motorcycles, not only in his technical career, but also in his personal journey, and I'd dare to say his spiritual connection with riding is extensive as well. As a result of this, you finish off with someone who is very good at what they do and very passionate. This being said, expect a no-BS type of persona, a kind of personality that says, "Don't waste my time, I won't waste yours," but not in a bad way.Which, in my opinion, is exactly what you need when we are talking about your life being on the line. If you choose to do the one-on-one and you know absolutely nothing, come in humble, be transparent, and let yourself be coached. I came here not knowing a goddamn thing, extremely anxious, and with very low confidence, to the point where I thought once I got on the bike I would chicken out and it would be one of those things. Coach could see this in me and he just worked with me as an individual and helped me through the process. I almost felt like the class was tailored to me personally. It was the opposite of what I was being offered from other places. I left that day knowing how to actually get on a motorcycle, shift, brake, and even get some speed. Obviously, I need more work before I get on the road, but I truly feel like I left that practice a better version of myself than I was before I came in. It was actually one of the best days of my life, with newfound confidence, feeling 10 feet tall, and a skill I never thought I would have.

I also have to mention this was not my first option because I wanted a Harley and I thought this was just for sportbikes. I went to Harley, a complete noob, to check out the course, and before I knew it, I was signing papers and getting a 1600cc bike delivered to my house under the pitch that they would deliver it to me and pay for a course. Because of a technical issue on their side, I did not leave that day with a motorcycle. It was all easy hopes and dreams. That would have most likely at best made me crash a brand new, beautiful bike, and at worst, I could have lost my life. This is very common, apparently. In contrast to Coach Akkaya, who recommended I buy an actual pedal bike for practice, these guys are literally saving people's lives. Education is probably one of the main factors when it comes to losing your life on a motorcycle. The DMV will make you brake a couple of times, drive in a circle, and now you can go on the freeway with huge trucks and all sorts of situations even pros sometimes have difficulties with. That is just a recipe for disaster.I truly believe educating yourself as much as possible with courses and good coaches that are not trying to just make a quick buck and actually care for your health is crucial, and these guys are exactly that.
now the price.  I have to say 75 bucks for an hour, and I learned so much in this hour, is pretty much giving the class for free. I'm not going to criticize it because I'm sure they have their reasons. But as a business owner and in this current economy, 75 dollars is a gift. Very economic for what you are getting. in my opinion worth atleast 300 an hour. If you are new and scared or think you're too old to start or for any reason not doing it, I'd say just go with the flow, don't deny yourself the opportunity. 100% recommend.

Owner's reply
Thank you for sharing such a detailed review of your experience! We're thrilled to hear how the course helped you refine vital skills and boost confidence. Your feedback highlights its real-world value. Looking forward to seeing you again!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Robin Egan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. WHAT A DIFFERENCE
!If you are a street rider looking to build real-world confidence, you need to sign up for next year’s Ladies Cornering Class with Superbike Coach Corp. Held on a closed kart track, this course was technically geared toward beginner street riders. However, as an experienced street and track rider, I can confidently say this course still offered many benefits. It helped me identify bad habits and dialed in foundational safety skills that translate directly to twisty backroads.

Here is what made this experience beneficial for me:
CHANGING MY MIND ABOUT THE TRAINING COURSE
I will be honest: I was never quite fond of the tight little kart track before this clinic. Although the surface of the course was older with concrete patches and tar snakes, it actually better mimicked a real street experience. Once the coaches taught me the correct line, everything clicked. WHAT A DIFFERENCE that made! Learning exactly where to position the bike completely altered the experience, turning what used to be a stressful layout into the perfect, controlled laboratory for perfecting street geometry.

SHIFTING FOR SMOOTHNESS, NOT SPEED
One of my biggest personal breakthroughs was changing how I thought about my gears. I learned that shifting into the next gear wasn’t always about trying to go faster. It actually made the bike significantly smoother. Upshifting stabilized my chassis, settled the engine, and took all the jerky nervousness out of my riding. It was a masterclass in finesse over speed.

STREET SURVIVAL: "VIEWING" AND SAFEST LINES
Head Coach Jill Akkaya and her team maintained a relentless focus on safety. Everything they taught centered on a core philosophy: Lean = Risk. To keep us safe on public roads, they focused heavily on two main skills:
*The "Viewing" Drill: We worked extensively on training our eyes to look much farther ahead of where the front tire was. We practiced viewing and predicting upcoming corners, which gave me the time to react before I was already in the turn.
*The Safest Lines: They taught us how to read a corner to find the line that requires the absolute least amount of lean angle. By minimizing our lean, we drastically reduced our risk on twisty roads.

EMERGENCY BRAKING: THE LIFESAVER
We also did an emergency braking drill, which came in handy sooner than I ever expected. In our very next riding session, I came into a corner too hot and completely over-blew the turn. Even with my background, survival reactions can kick in, but my fresh muscle memory from the drill instantly took over instead. I was able to bring the bike to a very quick, safe stop right there. The safety habits they introduced us to literally prevented me from going off track that same day.

THE VERDICT
Jill Akkaya created a supportive, ego-free space. This inaugural Ladies Cornering Class is currently only offered once per year, so spots are limited. Whether you are a brand new rider or someone with thousands of miles on the odometer and track days under your belt, keep your eyes on their schedule—this course delivered essential tools to stay alive on the streets.

Owner's reply
We're thrilled to hear you had an awesome day and learned so much! Jill will be so pleased to know her instruction made a difference. Thank you for sharing your experience!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nikki Hicks 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Took the all Ladies Cornering Course and Jill did an amazing job instructing. Had such a awesome day and learned so much!

Owner's reply
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled our Women's class made your first track day so memorable and helped build your confidence. We look forward to seeing you in future classes and continuing your journey on a sport bike!
  
 
  
  
 
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How to prepare for a Superbike-Coach track day

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Download entire time schedule here: PRINT OUT time schedule, SBC track day 8/27/2023 [ddownload id=”9986″]

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