In today’s age of high-horsepower superbikes, large-displacement cruisers and super-heavy-weight tourers, riding skills are more important than ever for safe, fun motorcycling. Unfortunately for experienced riders, there is a large gap between the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic RiderCourse Level 2 (BRC-2) and the many racetrack schools around the country. Many riders are interested in improving their skills but are unwilling to take on the additional risks associated with a high-speed environment. If you fit into the “I’m interested, but…” group, you’re not alone. In fact, if you add up all the attendees of all the race schools together, they only represent a tiny percentage of street riders. This is not to say they are not good schools. To the contrary, they have much to offer. But they are not for everyone. Fortunately, Lee Parks’ Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic (Total Control ARC) has a solution for those experienced riders “caught in the middle,” as well as those track-day junkies and racers who want to be able to further enhance their skills in a controlled environment with expert instruction.
How It Works
Part of the reason for the program’s success is the dynamic classroom training, which includes both theory and application of the Total Control ARC techniques. By including a basic analysis of vehicular dynamics, riders get a clear understanding of how their actions affect their bikes. For instance, in the suspension portion of the class, riders learn how to analyze the effectiveness of their suspension and how to set it up for maximum control and comfort.
The range portion of the training is done on our closed range in Walton, KY where each of the skills are individually broken down and practiced. Working on only one skill at a time is the fastest way to make consistent riding improvements. The beauty of doing it this way is that the student is never asked to make a huge “leap of faith” in any one area. Each skill is built up in small two-mph increments until the desired result is achieved. This allows for high confidence and never gets too scary. In fact, cornering speeds never go above 25 mph. While this may seem slow, in a tight enough corner, 25 is very, very fast. Combined with a strategic “building block” formula for integrating the individual skills into a complete riding package, the Total Control ARC enables riders to learn faster and easier than ever before. Equally important, all the Total Control ARC skills are taught with their direct applications for street riding. After all, knowing how to do something is of little value if you don’t understand when and where to use it.
What It Covers
Cornering technique is the primary focus of the Total Control ARC. Individual skills include corner entry, line selection, body position and corner exit. There are slightly different versions of these depending on the type of bike ridden, but all follow the same philosophical principals that are taught in the course. Throttle control and throttle/brake transitions are also covered in great detail. Additionally, super-tight, low-speed, “parking lot” turns are taught.
What It Costs
The cost for the standard eight-hour Total Control ARC is $350 depending on location, which includes a workbook with explanations and examples of the techniques and concepts covered in the course.
Requirements
All students must provide their own motorcycle or scooter and have at least one year of riding experience. Motorcycle or scooter should be in proper working order, including cooling and charging systems, and a battery that is in good condition. For students with less than two years of experience, it is advised (though not required) that they have completed an MSF ERC or BRC 2. Protective gear is required for all students, which includes a DOT-approved helmet (full-face recommended), motorcycle jacket and pants, gloves and boots that cover the ankles. Jeans and fingerless gloves are not allowed, but Kevlar jeans will be accepted. Absolutely no race tires, race compound tires or car tires allowed regardless if they are DOT approved.
When and Where
If you’re interested in attending a Total Control ARC, call us to register (859-485-2925). Classes are limited to 12 students and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. When the class is full, we will accept students to be placed on a waiting list.
The Total Control ARC’s Promises