The renowned California Superbike School was founded by former American motorcycle racer, Keith Code, back in 1980 where his step-by-step methodology set the school apart from any other type of motorcycle training on offer at the time. And that still rings true today.
Over the past 40 years, Code has refined the techniques the school teaches, both in the US and in the UK, which are all around the art of cornering a motorcycle as efficiently, quickly and as safely as possible. To help students master motorcycle cornering, there are four levels to complete, with each level made up of five separate drills, which you can complete on your own motorcycle, or one of their fleet of Kawasakis – from Ninja 650s to full-fat ZX-10R superbikes, which was my bike of choice for the day.
The level one course I attended was at the Kent-based Brands Hatch Indy circuit, but the CSS team travel up and down the country delivering their courses, made up of classroom sessions led by chief instructor and school director Gary Adshead, combined with ample track time to put the theory into practice.
The 20-minute classroom sessions allow you to get to grips with the drill you will then be putting into practice out on track, and gives you time to ask any burning questions. Once you’re happy, it’s out on circuit you go. The excellent team of on-track instructors then assess how well you’re getting on with the drills, and guide you through them with a handful of easy-to-understand signals until you’ve nailed it.
So, here’s how I got on…
What makes CSS different to a track day?
Although CSS boasts working with top racing stars including Wayne Rainey, James Toseland, Leon Camier and 2021 World Supersport Champion Dominique Aegerter, it’s not a race school, but it’s not like a regular track day either.
The key word is school – and it’s exactly that. Everyone is there to learn and come away from the day a better rider than when they started, regardless of ability. The California Superbike School is dedicated to improving each student’s riding, whether you’re a total novice, or a seasoned racer. And the skills you learn are applicable both on track, and to your everyday road riding.
If you’re after an adrenalin-filled, flat-out track day, California Superbike School probably isn’t for you. But, if you want to learn skills that will set you up for the rest of your motorcycling life, both on track and on road, and become a better rider – then I’d recommend booking up as soon as you can.
A day at the California Superbike School costs £490, using your own bike, with hire of one of the school’s Kawasakis starting at £385.
Now level one is under my belt, I can’t wait to complete level two!
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If you’re thinking of completing a California Superbike School course, then you could receive up to 10% off your motorcycle insurance policy. Book here.
