I found out about this place while looking through reviews on Yelp, so after my experience I decided to add to the pile since it's well deserved. My first contact with them was by phone, regarding instruction for passing the M test at the DMV.
Eric is the one to speak with for the low down. after a few initial questions about my skill level, he was able to get a picture of what training I needed and if what he does will work for me. Turns out it was a match. I explained that I failed the test on my first go around. I further went on to explain I've driven my bike around the neighborhood and on rental scooters in Mexico. So like many, he knew my problem was hearing the word "test" which he assured me is normal, and that he could get me past this, he told me I wasn't any different than most, and he was a good teacher. I like confidence in a person, so I was in and set up my appointment.
They're on the NW side of the city, not to far from the DMV on Elston, for those not to familiar with the city across from the original Superdawg, which is in my heart the one and only. The location allows them to bring you the bike when you're ready to test.
I was greeted by Eric when I arrived, couldn't have been any nicer. We did some paperwork as we went over the process. He immediately set out to put me at ease, which wasn't an easy task. Another person was in the shop helping a lady select a bike. I was listening to their conversation, to get a feel for the place. He was helpful, informative and not pushy. If you're looking, I'd say stop in.
The training is held in back of the shop, in the alley. Eric has cones and the pavement marked up to mimic the test. It's about the test remember this. I did take a course last fall that had me circling a parking lot for hours, in the summer heat, I also had a summer cold or something. I was feverish and congested. I was also dehydrated and then irritable because I was just going in circles. They told you to break anytime you wanted but you had to bring your own water, etc. Not here, Eric made sure to not let me get dehydrated, he explained it was important to concentration, and if you feel thirsty you're a half hour too late. He brought out water and iced tea. Being a warm sunny day, he also had me remove my helmet and stand in the shade to take a break here and there. Military training on concentration, focus, and avoiding danger.
We ran through the course, over and over. He'll tell you how to correct your mistakes, he'll read your body language and give you tips on relaxing. More of it is what's going on in your head, you're decision making is going to keep you out of trouble. This was one on one instruction that is invaluable, because it went beyond the bike. I can honestly say it made my a better driver on four wheels too.
Once you're ready you go to the DMV, do all that paperwork and get your number. When it's called to go to the counter, you text Eric and he'll or someone from the shop will come down with the bike. The timing works, when I walked out of the building Eric was there to hand me the bike to go to the test lane. He was also there at the end to congratulate me when it was over and I passed. My test, I did blow the 90 degree turn that was my nemesis the last time. Only this time, I was calm about it and managed the rest of the test because I was mentally prepared for it, I kept calm and carried on as they say. The last instruction I received didn't prepare me properly, this made all the difference. This and a good person at the DMV, that said, you still can get this, just continue on. Time to update my DMV review.
I'm glad I found him, wish I did sooner, but all is good in the end. Don't waste your time, if you have your basics down and want to study and pass the test, go see Eric first. read more