Taupo Motorcycle Training Day

(PR.co.nz) Following up on the success of the motorcycle skills training days held at Taupō Motorsport Park late last year, a returning riders session is being held in early February.

Taupō Motorsport Park in conjunction with Taupō District Council and Honda Riders Club of New Zealand (HRCNZ) is hosting a third discounted motorcycle skills training day on Saturday 5 February at Taupō Motorsport Park for intermediate riders, experienced riders who haven’t ridden for a while or those who completed earlier training days.

Participants will get the privilege of spending the day getting taught skills by Aaron Slight, one of the world’s most experienced World Superbike racers. Originally from Masterton, Aaron has competed in 229 races and of those, has been on the podium 87 times. He is the only rider ever to win the Suzuki Eight Hour race, the hardest endurance race in the world, three times in a row.

HRCNZ course organiser Rob Edwards says Aaron is a down to earth kiwi who relates well to all riders. “We have been working with him on rider development courses for a few years now and find he uses all his knowledge about bikes and riding and explains it in such a way that the average rider can understand and use the advice offered. The skills he teaches are not race skills, but skills designed to make the rest of us better riders, with more control of our bikes, thus making our riding safer and more enjoyable.”

To attend the returning riders training day you need to register with Robyn Edwards from HRCNZ on ph 07 377-4215 or email robyn@hrcnz.co.nz. Entries costs $30 and spaces are limited so get in quick to avoid disappointment.

Geoff Langham, CEO of Taupō Motorsport Track says he has been impressed with the Motorcycle Training Days and really pleased that the Taupō Motorsport Park has been able to provide the venue for such a valuable initiative. “Motorcycle accidents here and overseas are occurring more often, largely due to middle-aged riders used to riding 100 / 150cc bikes in their younger days purchasing larger bikes (1,000 cc) and riding without upskilling themselves appropriately. I strongly recommend this training for returning riders.”

Council’s Road Safety Coordinator Christine Hutchison acknowledged the valuable contribution from Taupō Motorsport Park, Honda Riders Club of New Zealand and ACC towards delivering the motorcycle training days and encouraged local riders to take advantage of the opportunity.

“Local riders should jump at the chance to learn from an elite rider like Aaron – they will gain some invaluable skills to help keep safe on our roads and have a great time while doing it.”

Media Release 19 January 2011 from Taupo District Council.