Cycle News - Archive Issues - 1990's

• dance, which made it difficult at best for Johnson to provide instruction that would equally benefit all of the students. For this reason, the bulk of the approximately six hours of the clinic was spent in a classroom setting, with two 45minute riding sessions thrown in to keep things interesting. "We only have a limited amount of time for each class, so I try to concentrate more on teaching the riders how to learn (rather) than trying to show them howie tackle each obstacle," said Johnson. "I think that's a problem with most of the other classes. You can only remember so much, so I think it's much more helpful if you show them how to learn from faster riders. I'll be happy if each rider leaves this class having learned one thing." Nevertheless, Johnson did cover a fair amount of technique during the classroom portion. Among the areas touched on were proper safety apparel, preparing for a race, bike set-up, practice, starts, braking, cornering, passing, jumI>" ing, training and nutrition. Johnson's tips seemed very helpful, yet basic enough that they applied to all levels of riders. When it seemed that some of the younger students were beginning to lose interest, Johnson let them loose on the track, being sure to first stress that the faster riders watch out for those with less experience. With approximately 30 students on the track at the same time, it was impossible for Johnson to individually critique each rider's style, but the session did give riders a chance to immediately practice the tips they had just learned. While it was obvious that some riders had not paid close attention and were simply reverting back to their old bad habits, most did seem to be concentrating on applying their new-found knowledge to real-life situations. Perhaps more importantly, the riding session allowed riders to work off some steam and better concentrate on the second half of instrUction. Following the second classroom session, students were again allowed out onto the track, and the clinic ended with what we felt was the most helpful portion of all, Johnson walking the track with the students. Most of the students were local riders, and this portion of the clinic gave them the perfect opportunity to learn the best lines on their home track. You may think you have your track dialed, but we guarantee that any rider would benefit from walking a track with Johnson. Many of the lines seemed obvious once Johnson had pointed them out, yet most present had never even considered them before. At the completion of the class, Johnson handed out diplomas and Tshirts to the students, most of whom seemed pleaSed with the day of instruction. "I used to have a Yamaha, but I bought another brand because I was getting a little burned out," said Chris Matthew of San Diego. "But I saw some of the stuff they (Yamaha) were doing for their customers, and I decided to go back. I'm glad I did; I learned a lot today:' "I thought it was great," agreed Frank Cesena, also from San Diego. "I learned a lot about which lines to take, and I think my riding will improve because of the class. I learned to pay attention to what the faster riders are doing. Besides, I got to meet Ricky Johnson!" Overall, we were impressed with the clinic, especially considering the limited time available and the variety of students' skill levels. Best of all, they're free. Yamaha's Paul Kellen told us that they are easily filling all of the classes, and they hope to continue the program next ~ar. m rAKE A'L"NG LEAP. And take the same leap more and more motocross riders are taking. Riders like Kawasaki team member Mike Kiedrowski, winner of this year's Daytona 250 Supercross. Because more and more are making the leap to Bridgestone motocross tires. Built with advanced Bridgestone technology and rugged construction for race proven toughness, traction, and wear. In a full line of front and rear tires. And in a full range of sizes for hard, intermediate, and soft terrain. Check them out, and they'll have you flying, too. BRIBIJESTORE 21

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