Rider’s Edge / Riding Academy

Closed the Riding Academy. Boooooo.

It has been over a year since I took the Rider’s Edge course and got my license. Tico continues to provide support on my motorcycling journey, and I am forever thankful! I just bought my first bike (not a Harley), and Tico held my hand as needed. His passion for riding is clear, and his dedication to his students is evident in everything he does! If you’re thinking about taking a motorcycle safety course (and if you’re getting a bike or even contemplating getting a bike, you SHOULD take a course), you can not go wrong with Rider’s Edge!

Just got my M1 license on Dec 23^rd after completing the course Dec 22^nd. Tico and Mario were fantastic instructors and clearly love what they do, their passion for motorcycling is contagious. Throughout the course they maintained a high level of professionalism and answered everyone’s questions without fail. Some students were starting from scratch and some already had some riding experience. Some took to it right away and others were a little more cautious but everyone was made to feel safe and ended up building confidence in their skills.
It’s always nice to see businesses that truly live up to their ratings on Unilocal and Rider’s Edge lives up to their 5 star rating big time. I have a lot of experience teaching myself and recognize great teachers when I see them, these guys are the real deal. If you want to learn to ride properly I cannot recommend these guys enough. Oh and in case you’re worried this is for Harley guys only, it’s not. These guys love motorcycling period, sport bikes and cruisers alike.

This should be a mandatory course for any and all motorcycle riders.
The curriculum here at Rider’s Edge is very thorough. Do not take a course that is shorter (and cheaper). You will miss out on information and training that makes you a safe rider. I’m also a more conscious driver in my car now from it.
They also offer a course to take after you have ridden for a while and you get to take it on your own bike. I’ll be taking this course, no question.
Did I mention it was fun? Great instruction from awesome people. I’m far from a Harley dude, so had reservations walking into it. It was totally unwarranted.
Take. This. Course.

This class was perfect for me, tons of hands on experience and attention with highly skilled, professional and friendly instructors. I recommend this class to everyone that’s talking about getting a bike. Oh and Tico is a rockstar.

This is honestly the best place to learn how to properly and safely ride a motorcycle. Tico, Mario and George are all amazing instructors that not only have a passion for riding but also have that passion to teach anyone that wants to learn. I took this class because it was a smaller class size than the average MSF course and because I knew they gave you extra hours of training. Usually everyone gets hung up on the price of the course but I can attest that every single dollar invested in this course is worth it. They don’t see you as just another number in an MSF factory they need to pass, they actually want you to learn the skills they are teaching you and take them with you whenever you ride on your own. You are not treated like a random-​faceless person at this course you are constantly being nurtured, encouraged and guided to develop correct riding skills. I walked into this thinking I would just be in and out and I would never see my instructors again but the relationship doesn’t end there, you walk away with mentors that will always be there for you.
I cannot recommend going through the Rider’s Edge /​Riding Academy enough, it was the best decision I made after jumping in and deciding I wanted to ride. Again, thank you Tico, Mario and George — you guys have the heart of gold!

AMAZING! Life Changing experience. This course is a little more money than some others but it is worth EVERY penny. The quality of materials to the BEST instructors out there. TICO is phenomenal and made the difference bringing the materials to life. Genuine passion for what he does makes you feel like you’ve known him forever and he truly is a MENTOR not just an instructor. There are so many benefits to going through Riders Edge I cannot recommend it enough. I now have the tools to feel confident and safe to ride, I’m totally HOOKED! Absolute professionals and full of FUN.
Although this course is through Harley Davidson there is really zero pressure of sales, however… I’m a FAN for life and can’t imagine buying my bike (eventually) from them. I know MY best interest is what their focus is.
Seriously the BEST thing I’ve ever done for myself. New friends and a new journey.
Thank YOU Tico & Mario for a beautiful beginning.

Close your eyes and picture yourself finally riding a Harley. Feel the power of the bike as you start the engine, embrace the rush of adrenaline as you take off, breath in the fresh air washing over you as you drive down the highway… there is simply nothing like it.
If you long to make this dream a reality the Rider’s Edge Course is for you. Two weeks ago, I graduated from this course with Tico and George as my instructors.
I can honestly attest to the fact that it is because of Tico that I now have my motorcycle’s license and am saving up for a bike.
Two years ago, I was returning from a trip where I had attempted to ride a dirt bike for the first time. I crashed and cut up my leg pretty badly. On the way home from LAX, my shuttle driver told me about the Rider’s Edge Course, mentioning someone named Tico, who could teach anyone how to ride.
The shuttle driver was spot on. Tico has a gift for teaching people to not only learn how to ride a motorcycle, but to appreciate the experience, understand the safety, and enjoy the ride.
Going into this class, I was very nervous. Driving does not come naturally to me and I knew it would take a great deal of practice for me to master this course. From the start, Tico made me feel welcome, relaxed, and ready. He takes what he does seriously while spicing up his instruction with humor and charm. His style both inside the classroom and out on the range is engaging and dynamic. His unique coaching ability made this course unforgettable.
George is more of a behind the scenes coach. He demonstrates each and every task you are about to perform on the bike and never stops setting up and breaking down the range. I appreciate all the hard work and effort he put into teaching me how to ride and even got a high five from him after executing a perfect turn on the «Celebration» ride.
You will simply not go wrong by taking this course and even after it ends, Tico will continue to help you out if needed.
Last weekend, he met me at the dealership to test drive a bike. He continues to work with his students after the class if they want to improve upon their skills, need help buying a bike, etc.
So come on what are you waiting for? Sign up for the Rider’s Edge course, change your life, and be the envy of everyone as you jump on your Harley and Ride on!

Best place ever to learn to ride!!! I was really nervous about it but Tico and George were AWESOME!!! They were patient and encouraging and had me riding comfortably in no time! I now own a new bike and LOVE my me time! Go sign up now!!!

It’s very simple…
Do you want to ride?
Do you want to have fun?
Do you want to feel comfortable?
If you answered ‘yes’ then… Take the Rider’s Edge course!!!
I grew up riding dirt bikes and wanted something new. As Tico put it, I was ready to take it to the street! I was a little intimidated, not being a ‘Harley Girl’ and all. Rider’s Edge was recommended and I can honestly say it was worth every penny. Tico and Mario were awesome!!! I now own my own bike and have been touring all through California. Next stop, Europe!
Seriously, you won’t be disappointed! Whether you ride a lot or a little, the experience you get from this class will keep you safe and having fun. Happy Riding!!!

I took the Rider’s Edge course a few months back. It was a birthday gift from my husband, who knew that despite my talk about learning to ride, it wasn’t going to happen without a little nudge to make it so.
Tico led the class, accompanied by George.
Tico’s passion for riding and patience for instructing new students on safe ways to handle the bike, is inspiring beyond words. The course is well structured, helps build confidence and provides the fundamentals. Even though all the students came from different skill-​sets, interests and experience levels, the group vibe was so supportive and encouraging. We all just wanted each other to get out and ride.
The class was great. Tico and George were amazing. I’m psyched to now be riding.

Amazing riding school. Tico really helped me get comfortable on the bike and I passed my dmv exam with much help from this course. I highly recommend this course to anyone as it really prepares you to ride safely.

I had been wanting to learn to ride for years when my partner and I finally took Tico’s Rider’s Edge course. We chose Rider’s Edge because of the smaller class size, which equals more riding time and personal attention. We met some great folks and still keep in contact with the rest of our class.
I feel Rider’s Edge should be a requirement for any driver/​rider! I completed the course feeling confident and excited. And it didn’t stop there, Tico took my partner and I out riding several times so that we could find the right bike for us.
Don’t hesitate any longer to learn this incredibly amazing skill.
Ask to see the motorcycle museum.

I have been riding for many years before this class but I was amazed to see how many things improved on my skill level by taking this class even to see how beginner riders in my class who had never been on a bike let alone a Harley were riding like they had been on a bike their entire life after the class was over it was truly amazing to see how great the instructors are and how much they really care I would recommend this course to anyone ! There is no other place in all of Los Angeles that will give you this kind of one on one

Great class and premium learning experience that exceeded my expectations.
My review is for the beginners course, so if you can already ride tight figure-​8s and have significant traffic experience you may need one of their upper level courses.
Prior to the course, I couldn’t even remember which side the throttle was located, or which way to rotate the handle to accelerate. After a few days of instruction I’ve passed the driving exam and can complete the required maneuvers with ease. You’ll still need to practice on your own after the class to build upon the foundation provided. This is not a blow off course that will just pass you because you paid more money or bought a bike from the dealership before the class. You pay more money for this course because it’s a better experience than the other state minimum courses being offered.
The bikes that they provide are great and were just replaced this year with a new Harley-​Davidson model called STREET™ and they’re 500c and power-​limited for safety. The bikes are also equipped with safety bars on the sides that protect you and the bike if they fall over. These are also the lightest Harleys, so you’ll get the experience of a cruiser while benefiting from the smaller size. These bikes are so new that they’re not even for sale yet, but I can foresee many people buying these bikes or the 750cc version after the completion of the course. Surprisingly, there is not pressure to buy a bike just because the course is at the dealership, but they’ll answer questions and provide recommendations if you ask during breaks.
The instructors remained nice, friendly and helpful to everyone equally and provided private coaching every chance that they could. As mentioned in most other reviews, the instructors are incredibly patient and provide a great mix of positive feedback and critique to improve your skills while also keeping you motivated.
To get the most out of any of these safety courses spend $ 20 and complete the MSF e-​course a week before your riding course. I arrived to the first day of class with confidence and the training in that e-​course is slightly more comprehensive than they have time to cover during the class. A MSF book is also provided on the first day and it’s nearly a duplicate of the e-​course. The certificate that you earn online is of no licensing value, but was very helpful and is highly recommended because you’ll pass the final written test with ease.
Even if you’ve never been on a motorcycle but can ride a bike the progression of training in the course was able to get most up to speed. It was pretty amazing how the entire group improved in such a short period of time. You start out just walking the bike forward and backward and simulate most exercises with the bikes off so that everyone is clear prior to beginning. If you’re a true beginner you may want to plan on taking the course twice to get 4 days of riding time since no amount of MSF knowledge substitutes for the coordination that you need to learn on the bike.
Helmets are provided and the only gear that I had to buy was over the ankle boots with rubber soles and a pair of gloves. Check the weather before your class, and use layers. If it’s going to be hot you just need jeans and a long sleeve shirt to make sure no skin is exposed including finger tips of gloves.
The only warning that I could offer is that if you have a class full of really bad riders you may need to be very patient since you are not allowed to overtake anyone and must always remain single file. You also need to take the advice that they’re offering very seriously or you may not pass the riding exam even if you’re generally staying within the lines and riding around without stalling out anymore.

I wholeheartedly agree with the comments of Jessica and Freddie. We had Luis «tico» and Mario and — at all times — really adapt themselves to improve your learning. I cannot compare with other school but this one is very very good for sure. They also offer other services like bike riding and bike testing for free !
Je recommende vivement cet etablissement a qui veut apprendre vite et bien meme et surtout si vous n’avez pas d experience ! Avec cette ecole Vous né devez passer que le written test du DMV en californie

Decided that this was the place for me based on the reviews and I don’t have a single bad thing to say about this experience. Sincerely had an amazing experience and even made my gf jealous so for her Xmas present I bought her a voucher and as I’m typing this she’s receiving her paperwork because she passed!!!
Tico is awesome!
My girlfriend had a different instructor but still had a great time. They’re very hands on and do everything they can to make sure you’re safe and comfortable.
I just did a 1000 mile ride with my girlfriend from l. a to Utah and every time I questioned myself I had an instant flash back to the training and education I had with riders edge.

If you want to learn how to ride a motorcycle, Riders Edge is the way to do it. Small class size, only 12 people. Two dedicated, professional, passionate, knowledgeable instructors.
There are classroom sessions that consist of going through a workbook, answering questions and watching training aid videos. These sessions really prepare you for the riding days.
The first riding day starts really easy with just walking the bike, so you get a feel for what it is like to be on a motorcycle. I had NEVER been on a motorcycle before, and it was frightening to think about it at first, but they made it easy.
Over the next two days they taught us the proper way to operate a motorcycle including starting, stopping, emergency stopping, turning, swerving, riding over obstacles.
People were at different levels and the instructors understood that and personalized instruction for each individual, doing all they could to help everyone do their best.
Tico and George were a great team of instructors. They each had their own individual way about them, but they both had the same goal. They wanted to teach everyone how to safely and effectively ride a motorcycle .
Another thing the instructors did well was get the class to bond. I didn’t even realize it was happening, but our little group bonded and became a family. They played just as important a role in my passing the class and learning to ride as the instructors did.
At the end of the 5 days, I learned to ride a motorcycle, I passed the road test, I passed the written test in class and I made some new friends. If you can ride a bicycle, Riders Edge can teach you to ride a motorcycle. I’m proof positive of that.

Rider’s Edge courses are THE BEST way to learn to ride a motorcycle or to get a refresher after not riding for a while.
The classes are only 12 people each, which translates to personalized instruction and a great vibe overall.
Tico (Luis) and George are great instructors. They keep the classes lively and fun, but make sure you get the best learning experience.
The classroom portion of the course (three of five days) went over basic riding skills, motorcycle controls, accident avoidance, riding etiquette, equipment and gear, laws, etc. It’s very instructive and thorough. We created teams to go over each of the topics we discussed and tackled it together.
But of course the gem of the course was the full weekend on the range. Each of us had a Buell Blast bike, which is a 500cc motorcycle light and low enough to handle, but with enough power to have fun. The instruction was VERY thorough. From very basic skills (how to operate the controls), to advance training on how to approach most day-​to-​day riding. Swerving, panic stopping, obstacles, how to enter curves, how to shift, you name it. It was a great confidence builder. And remember, passing the test at the end of the second day on the range means you do not need to do a riding test at the local DMV.
The course is a bit more expensive than other courses, but none give you the amount of training and personalized instruction we received from Rider’s Edge. Worth every penny!
Ps: Tico and George, you guys rocked! Thank you so much.

Riders Edge program is the best way to learn to ride a bike and be safe at the same time.
Today I have got my certificate of completion this classes and very exited about it. Finally have a confidence to ride my dream machine thanks to Mario and Luis (Tico).
Excellent coaches, very knowledgeable and helpful, this what I call real PRO’s.
Worth every penny I have paid for this’s class.
Highly highly recommending.
Thank you Mario Thank you Tico very much for your enthusiasm
Soon I’ll visit you on my denim black V-​muscle :)))