The must-attend ACL day for motorcyclists

In order to promote safety rules and enable new (or more experienced) motorcyclists to learn or relearn how to handle their vehicles, ACL organizes motorcycle riding improvement workshops. And in June, I signed up, much to my delight!

Back in the saddle with ACL motorcycle training

I got my motorcycle license 30 years ago. Due to various jobs and professional assignments, I was only able to actively ride a motorcycle for five years. And since arriving in Luxembourg 12 years ago, I haven't been on a two-wheeled vehicle.

When I decided to buy a motorcycle again last year to better enjoy the beauty of Luxembourg's landscapes, I quickly realized that I lacked practice. And this lack of motorcycle practice could pose a significant risk to my safety. As a member of the ACL (Automobile Club de Luxembourg), I discovered that it was possible to take a practical motorcycle training course. This one-day course allowed me to rediscover the basics and get to grips with my new machine. I went along and I have no regrets!

Safety at the heart of the ACL motorcycle course

From the very first minutes of the motorcycle refresher course, it was clear that safety was the instructors' main concern.

When I arrived at the motorcycle track near Luxembourg City, I realized that there was one instructor for every two riders! I received a very warm welcome, and one of the instructors immediately came over to greet me.

After looking at the motorcycle I had bought a few weeks earlier for five minutes, he asked me when I had last checked the tire pressure. Seeing my surprised look, he went to fetch a tool to check the pressure. The verdict: the pressure was well below the minimum requirement, too low for him to let me spend the day with them. So he left and came back with what was needed to inflate the tires. What a way to start! At least I understood that safety was at the heart of this motorcycle training course.

Theoretical and, above all, practical motorcycle training

Then, along with the seven other trainees, we headed inside a building for an hour of theory and presentation. When each participant introduced themselves, it turned out that most of the motorcyclists present had been riding regularly for years. I had thought I would be with people who had the same profile as me, i.e., people who hadn't ridden their bikes for years, but I was very wrong!

After an hour of presentation on the technical fundamentals of motorcycles and their use, we then went to the track. And for nearly three hours, we did exercises focused on mastering our motorcycles at different speeds.

Then it was time for a lunch break, and we were able to eat on site.

An hour later, we returned to the training room for about 30 minutes of additional practical advice on using our motorcycles. Then it was back to the track for three hours of riding. It was an intense day, but very useful whether you're an occasional or experienced rider.

Safety is at the heart of the ACL's concerns. Consult their checklist before going on vacation with your vehicle.

The services of the ACL Motorcyclist Center

The ACL (Automobile Club Luxembourg) supports motorcyclists through various events, accompanied trips, and training courses. In order to promote improvement but also the joy of sharing this same passion, the ACL has set up the Maison du Motard, which brings together various clubs.

At the same time, the ACL's Maison du Motard aims to promote values such as respect and responsibility, thereby improving the image of motorcyclists among the general public. Another key challenge for the Maison du Motard is to reduce the risk of road accidents by promoting vigilance, caution, and cooperation among road users.

Overall, the ACL's approach emphasizes safety and the continuous improvement of motorcyclists' skills, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility on the road.

And after this day of training, why not take the opportunity to buy a new vehicle?

A positive ACL day, which I highly recommend

At the end of the day, I was very satisfied with the course. I met a team of volunteers who were approachable and driven by a shared passion for motorcycling. But I also saw how much they enjoyed teaching other motorcyclists about safety reflexes. And the icing on the cake was that the small group of trainees was very friendly! I had a great time.

Above all, at the end of the day, I felt like I had rediscovered the thrill of riding and, more importantly, improved my riding skills, which will be very useful for controlling my motorcycle.

Like the other trainees, I'll be back next year for another day on the track, but this time on the road as well. ACL periodically organizes advanced training days on the track and on the road.

Calling all Joe Bar Team fans 😉

For more details on motorcycle training courses, check out the ACL's Maison du Motard training calendar.