Upstate Rider Training

Fantastic experience: Very good class with a group of helpful instructors.

Fantastic experience: I was a first time motorcycle rider taking the 2 day BRC course and it was awesome! Russ and Bill were super cool, kind and encouraging. It’s a fun, stress-free and very professional environment. High marks for emphasizing safety and importance of practicing the skills learned in this course. Will definitely be going back for the more advanced half day course. Worth every penny!

Fantastic experience: If you’re considering getting into motorcycling and want a training experience that’s equal parts professional, engaging, and fun—Upstate Rider Training is the place to start. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that Russ and Bill are deeply passionate about what they do. That passion translates into their teaching style, which is not only informative but also incredibly encouraging. Whether you’re brand new to riding or just brushing up on the basics, you’ll feel supported the entire way through. The structure of the Basic Rider Course is seamless. Each segment builds on the last, gradually increasing your confidence and skill level without ever feeling overwhelming. The balance between classroom instruction and hands-on riding is well thought out, and everything is paced just right. You’re never rushed, but you’re also never left waiting around or wondering what’s next. One of the standout features of the course is the motorcycles provided. They’re café racer-style bikes, and they’re an ideal size and style for learning the fundamentals. Lightweight, responsive, and easy to maneuver—they give you a real feel for the road while still being beginner-friendly. It’s clear a lot of thought went into selecting the right bikes for the job. Above all, the professionalism at Upstate Rider Training is top-notch. Russ and Bill clearly take pride in creating a safe, respectful, and effective learning environment. You feel like you’re learning from people who care about both your success and your safety. I left the class feeling not only more skilled, but also more excited about continuing my journey in riding. I’m already looking forward to signing up for additional classes to build on what I’ve learned. Whether you’re riding for the first time or getting back in the saddle after a break, I couldn’t recommend Upstate Rider Training more highly.

Fantastic experience: It was a great class! I recommend this course to all riders of any skill level.

Fantastic experience: Great teacher. Takes time and tells you things to improve on and things you're doing wrong on certain skills.

Fantastic experience: was super fun and helpful. not too expensive and has a 1 day class for experienced riders

Fantastic experience: Russ and Chuck did a fantastic job teaching us the basics, giving us time to practice, and coaching when needed. The skills I learned here will be greatly beneficial to me down the road, and I would recommend this school for anyone who rides or is thinking of riding.

Fantastic experience: Patience did great with instructions .They explained things and made me feel comfortable

Fantastic experience: Bill and Jim were great instructors and the class is highly recommended. I been operating for more than 30 years but still felt the class was not only helpful but is essential for being the best rider you can be. Thank you both

Fantastic experience: Best coaches ever!

Fantastic experience: If you are a new or future rider and you are looking to get behind some handlebars, this is the best place to do it in the upstate! 10 Stars.

Fantastic experience: Awesome and exciting had an amazing time with everyone and the coaches and made many friends. The coaches are very understanding and kind and will work with you to make you a better rider and couldn’t recommend a better place to go!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely fantastic instructors. They care about your safety and your future of riding. I recommend the basic beginner course to anyone who hasn't rode a motorcycle but plan on it. There are other courses that can fit any rider as well.

Fantastic experience: 100% recommended taking the BRC (basic rider course) through them. I learned a lot from both of my coaches & they will make sure you have fun as you learn. If I could give six stars, I'd do it!

Fantastic experience: These guys were great and highly skilled and knowledgeable. They run a great program. I learned a lot and they are great at coaching. They're like the teachers you see on YouTube and walk you through everything!

Fantastic experience: I have been riding for a few years and took a break because I had kids. I took the course to get back into riding along with getting better at moving at a slower pace. This course was fantastic. Minimum classroom. Majority hands on. The instructors know how to take you out of your comfort zone confidently to work on the things you wouldnt do on your own. They help you pass all evaluations and tests. I can't say enough good things. It was definitely worth every penny.

Fantastic experience: I cannot tell you how beneficial this course was! As a first time rider I heard of Upstate Rider Training through Travis at D2 powersports of spartanburg when i was picking up a helmet and I'm so glad I decided to take the basic rider course. As a first time rider I learned so much in just 2 days with the help of Russ and Bill which are amazing coaches huge thanks to those guys for teaching me how to become a great rider! They take the time to go through every exercise, help develop good riding habits and understanding the reasons of each technique. This course helps build the foundation of motorcycle riding. If your planning on learning how to ride please take this course you will gain knowledge, gain confidence and learn to become a great rider. Thanks again Russ and Bill!

Fantastic experience: I loved every bit of the beginner safety course that I just took! I have said multiple times throughout (and after) my experience that it was exactly what I needed to feel more comfortable (and safe!) operating a motorcycle. The coaches, Russ and Bill, were just fabulous.. they gave us feedback every step of the way on what we were doing well and how we could improve. They were enthusiastic, supportive, informative, and just a wealth of knowledge the entire time. I could go on and on, but to sum it up, I would absolutely recommend this course (or any of their other courses!) to anyone and everyone who has an interest in riding. 10/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fantastic experience: I just completed the Basic Rider Course and this class is an absolute no-brainer for all new riders. And even experienced riders could benefit from a skills and safety refresher. Russ is an excellent instructor (and the coaching assistant he had with him, Tara, was also excellent). The class is very well-structured, well-paced, and organized (oh, and Russ is very punctual, which I greatly appreciated). We covered so much ground in just two days, but it didn't feel overwhelming because of how well each new piece builds on the previous pieces. I would highly recommend this class to any level of rider, and I'm looking forward to coming back for the more advanced class.

Fantastic experience: As someone who had never been on a motorcycle before, Russ and Tara did an incredible job of making this training a very safe and exciting learning experience. Even though we were a group of 6, I still received a lot of 1:1 advice and even got to ask question during and after our sessions. I cannot thank both of them enough for such a positive experience. If you have any interest in learning how to ride or improving your skills, this is the place to go!

Fantastic experience: Excellent rider courses! I always learn something new and the courses provide a great refresher for seasoned riders. Russ and Bill are great instructors and explain the riding techniques well.

Fantastic experience: Russ was a PHENOMENAL teacher & an all around nice guy! I went in feeling really nervous but within the first day I felt so much more confident. I wasn’t afraid to ask questions. It was also really nice taking the group class to be able to interact with everyone else . I really cannot recommend this class enough. I left with an endorsement & felt x1000 times more knowledgeable & SAFE!

Fantastic experience: This class is so fun and well worth your time and money! Russ and Tara were incredible teachers, I look forward to taking more classes.

Fantastic experience: Russ was a phenomenal coach and made sure each of us were taken care of in terms of riding and our safety! I highly recommend anyone looking to learn to ride or further their skill, take one of his classes. I couldn’t have chosen a better instructor!

Fantastic experience: I attended the 3 wheel training class not knowing anything about riding. Russ was an amazing instructor who provided all the basics for riding. He was very encouraging and patient and made learning fun. Upon completing the class I now feel equipped to begin my biking journey! I would recommend everyone attend his class even if you already ride.

Fantastic experience: Completed my msf course thanks so much for the coaches they were amazing highly recommend them if you want to start riding a bike!

Fantastic experience: I suggest Upstate Rider Training to anyone who wants to grow as a rider. Bill and Chuck were great coaches. I will be back in 6 months or 3,000 miles.

Fantastic experience: I completed the three wheel rider course yesterday and it was great. Russ and Bill were our trainers, and they couldn't have done a better job. We started with baby steps and built up to more advanced skills as the course progressed. Before each exercise, Russ or Bill would explain what we were getting ready to do, then the other one would ride the course and demonstrate it so we could see in advance what we were preparing to do. That was perfect. There were only 3 students in my group, so we got a lot of personal attention and positive coaching. I've always wanted to ride a CanAm and this was the perfect introduction. I now have the confidence to go to the next level. Great job guys!

Fantastic experience: Great instructors. Good content for new or seasoned riders. You will learn something new.

Fantastic experience: Russ was the best instructor I have had, not only is he patient but also has the concern to make sure you are ready to ride with confidence, he is honest and will let you know if you are ready to ride after his class, if you pass he will shack your hand and congradulate you if you fail he will tell you its not big deal we can try again. Thanks to him I was able to pass and get my license and was told you keep practicing. I took it ask them more you practice the better you get. Thank you so much Russ doing a wonderful job.

Fantastic experience: I enjoyed the two day MSF course on 3WMC with Upstate Rider Training. Russ was mindful of my skill level and gave me the necessary tools I need to be self-aware of my strengths and opportunities. 3WMC riding is Seriously Fun! Thanks Russ. Please add/create a Spyder class also. I plan on taking more classes with Upstate Rider Training in the future.

Fantastic experience: I took the 3 wheel course with Russ and it really was fun. The two day course was a great balance of range time and classroom time that prep you for safe riding. Russ was patient and always ready to answer any questions we had. If you’re thinking about getting into riding or want to brush up your skills, you want this guy as your instructor.

Fantastic experience: As a motorcycle MSF RiderCoach, I was curious to experience riding three wheels to see what all the excitement was about. Taking the two-day MSF Three Wheel course for $99 through Upstate Rider Training was much cheaper than renting a Spyder for a day. Also, I wanted to learn how to handle it “the right way”. I was very impressed with the quality of training as well as the three wheel experience itself. Russ is very pleasant, professional and provided clear instruction and demos for us to follow. There was clear communication throughout the whole sign up process through to the “next steps” at the end of the course. I would highly recommend Russ and Upstate Rider Training to anyone looking to see what the three wheel experience is all about, whether you’re looking to go from two wheels to three, have never driven anything less than four wheels, or are just looking for a fun two day experience.

Fantastic experience: Great class. Russ and Bill are phenomenal riding coaches.

Fantastic experience: Sharpened my MC skills by enrolling in URT’s intermediate 1 day MSF course, and received my license the next day! Russ and Alex were a pleasure to work with. Clear communication via text & email. Highly recommend! ️

Fantastic experience: RUSS and ALEX were awesome this was a great time and really well worth it! I would highly recommend to everyone!!

Fantastic experience: IT WAS BETTER THAN BEING AT WORK!! :D Highly recommend for anyone wanting to learn to ride. You learn so much! Russ and Alex were great, fun, and encouraging the whole time! Thanks guys!

Fantastic experience: Russ and Bill gave me the confidence to safely extend my comfort zone of riding and go, literally, on the other side of the RR tracks. Without their expert input and confidence boosting training, with an emphasis on always learning, I'd still be stuck on the Boiling Springs side of Inman. Will definitely be taking the ADV and Experienced classes and probably in a year or two the basic class again to reinforce my knowledge of safe motorcycling.

Fantastic experience: Russ and team provided great training and riding tips for safe driving skills. I learned good techniques and had fun environment during this learning. I would definitely recommend them for motorcycle riding training. All you need to do is focus and follow the instructions.

Fantastic experience: A great place to learn to ride and/or improve your skills. Russ and Perry did a good job of getting everyone through the DMV requirements to get your license.

Fantastic experience: A MUST DO for new or experienced riders! Fun and friendly instruction by Russ, he passed on a lot of pertinent information and is an excellent coach of technique. Great facility with a challenging course, fun 250cc bikes to learn on, I would love to have taken one home! Plus it is located next to a large Motorcycle dealership so you can spend breaktime looking for your next ride.

Fantastic experience: Russ and his team mentored me and the other riders throughout the course to help us sharpen our skills and gave us a list of things we can continue to work on. I came in as a returning rider with a 15 year break and got up to speed and took the DMV test during the one day returning rider course. I look forward to taking additional courses in the future!!

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend this course from the beginner to the most experienced riders.

Fantastic experience: I would give them 50 stars if I could, the experience was great, I had so much fun and I learned a lot more than I expected to going into the class. Russ, and Juan-Pablo were very patient coaches and always willing to help, and did everything in their power to make sure we could all pass the skills test. And it's cheap, as far as rider safety courses go, which was a huge plus for me! I would definitely recommend URT to anyone who's looking for a rider safety course.

Fantastic experience: When searching for training classes to ride a motorcycle, what should be ones criteria... cost, reviews, skills taught? It's so subjective for each person, and like many I was all of the above. Words cannot express how thorough, professional and "FUN" this class was for me!! Russ and Juan-Pablo were respectful and engaging the whole time. It was also nice to interact with the other riders there and build a bond with them too. I chose Upstate Rider Training because of what I read about and what they offer to ALL types of riders. Heck, I don't even live in SC, but I wanted to experience fun and engaging content.. and that's exactly what I got! Thank you, all again for a great experience and teaching that will stay with me for years to come. Look forward to the next class hopefully in late Spring of 2023!!

Fantastic experience: Russ is a wonderful teacher! I went from never riding a motorcycle to passing my license exam in two days. He is very patient and thorough with instructions. I highly recommend this course.

Fantastic experience: My brother hadn't rode a motorcycle in 40 years, so I was looking for a place to provide the proper training as that wasn't something I felt confident to do. I've been riding actively for many years, but teaching someone is a skill of its own. We decided to take the Basic Rider Course together and both learn more. The two days were fun for both of us and we came away with knowledge and improved skills at the end. He was able to achieve his certificate for his motorcycle endorsement to take to the SC DMV. I was able to add a new skill to my tool bag that I never knew in all my years of riding! Russ, Owner and Rider Coach along with Chuck, Rider Coach were awesome! They provided clear instruction of the skill we were about to learn, demonstrated the skill and then provided clear and positive constructive critique personalized to each student. You feel like you are the only student even though our group was six students. We were having fun and learning how to be a safe motorcyclist at the same time. The program builds on small steps to progressively advance your skill and confidence. I plan on taking an advance class in the Spring of 2023 to continue learning how to be a better rider. I'm hoping my brother will join me again. I can't recommend Upstate Rider Training highly enough. It should be 11 stars!

Fantastic experience: What an amazing Basic Rider Training course! I learned and gained a lot of basic skills and experience to further practice my riding skills! It was an amazing two day training with awesome trainers! As an absolute beginner, I felt always helped and the result was a pass in practical and in the written test! Looking forward to practice now on my own and I might think to come back in a couple of months for the next level training! Guys, if you want to learn some amazing skills and your life worth for yourself, join the classes of Upstate Rider Training! I highly recommend it!

Fantastic experience: I did the one day course for experienced riders in order to get my waiver for my license..I was nervous going in because I am a 62 yr old female..even though I had ridden street and dirt with a minor gap in between for a few years..let me say that Russ and Kimba are the best at teaching this course..experts to the tee...they make something hard..fun to learn..and learn you will..I learned so many things that I didn't realize..even after many years of riding..it was fun..intense..and exhausting..but worth every second of it all...I was the only female outside of Kimba a female instructor..my group of about seven other guys was awesome..encouraging and we all had each other's backs...you will not be wasting your time or money..Russ and Kimba are willing to help you with any issues or problem areas....speaking from my experience..DO IT!

Fantastic experience: Great experience. They kept it fun and entertaining but still very educational. Never rode a bike before and now I'm licensed and ready to go.

Fantastic experience: Russ was an excellent and very knowledgeable instructor. He was able to teach me and other beginners alot of helpful skills along with assisting me relax. I 10 out of 10 recommend this course for anyone who has never riden or even for those who have years of experience.

Fantastic experience: My experience was awesome! My sister and I signed up with zero experience and minimum knowledge in regards to riding a motorcycle. I attended the 1 on 1 course then the 2 day course. I can proudly say I am now licensed! Russ is an awesome instructor. The classes are worth the time and money. You will experience a little fear and fun but most importantly you will leave with the knowledge of how to properly and safely ride a motorcycle.If you are looking for an instructor/class that can teach you with patience the proper and safe way to handle a motorcycle; then Upstate Rider Training is the place to attend. Thank you so much Russ; Sincerely Tonya Dodd

Fantastic experience: My wife attended their course. I’ll also attended their course this weekend. The coaches were really great thank you handd on and Very informative.

Fantastic experience: Every rider needs to take a class. This is a great, encouraging group to do that with.

Fantastic experience: I attended the Returning Riders course at Upstate Rider Training. Russell and Kimba helped me regain the much needed confidence on a motorcycle after taking a little hiatus from 2 wheel action. I learned a lot and had fun while doing it. They were informative and helpful beyond measure. For the price, you cannot beat the skills and lessons taught here on top of potentially receiving your SC motorcycle endorsement. I recommend them to anyone from beginners to experienced riders.

Fantastic experience: 3 wheel training was awesome, had a great time. Best money ever spent.

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend anyone that rides a motorcycle to take one of their classes. They have something for everyone! No matter if you are just starting out with no experience at all or if you have been riding for 30 yrs I promise you will learn something that will benefit you and not only make you a better rider but also a safer rider! Everyone was super helpful to easy going. Great learning atmosphere with great people! Russ and Kimba are both top notch people that truly want you to teach you how to be as safe as possible while riding! If you are thinking about taking a class and you pass up on these guys it’s your loss! Thanks again Russ and Kimba for a great experience!

Fantastic experience: Russ and Michael were excellent teachers and made the class fun. I definitely learned a lot from them about slow speed maneuvers and turning my head to look where I am trying to go.

Fantastic experience: Russ is very nice and the overall instruction is great

Fantastic experience: I have been riding a few years and thought I didn't need a class. I decided to try it anyway and took the advanced technique course. I soon realized there is a lot I needed to learn! Russ was a great coach and I picked up a few skills that have helped me a lot since the class, especially slow speed skills. Thanks again for an awesome day.

Fantastic experience: Just finished the basic rider course yesterday with Chuck and Russ. What a great couple guys and a great experience. I would recommend Upstate Rider Training to anyone. Thank you Chuck and Russ!!

Fantastic experience: Ross and Chuck were great instructors. The facility is great, A/C. The classes and exercises definitely help me drive more safely and increase my abilities to ride. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Just back from adventure motorcycle training with Russ and J.P. They were both very skilled, knowledgeable,and patient. The training class was a blast and I enjoyed it very much! Plan on attending more of their classes in the future. It was great to learn what my bike will do.

Fantastic experience: Had a blast learning how to ride off road today. What great instruction and made super fun. Thanks so much for the experience guys!

Fantastic experience: The instructors are phenomenal at getting their students to ride proficiently in a remarkable amount of time.

Fantastic experience: I recently completed the 2 day Basic Rider Course at Upstate Rider Training. My instructors were Russ, the owner, and Kimba. This was a great experience! Russ is one of those people that just seems like they were born to teach. He has a warm, comforting personality and his love of motorcycling and motorcycle safety is really infectious. Kimba's level of knowledge during the classroom lessons was impressive and her input about her own personal motorcycling experience was invaluable and really reinforced what we were learning in the coursework. The riding exercises were taught at a perfect pace that allowed me to build up skills progressively and each rider was given individual feedback after each try of an exercise which helped me and gave me a focus for my next attempt. All of the students really seemed to be rooting for each other throughout the class which created a positive learning environment that added to the comfort level and fun. This is a class that teaches a lot of content in just 2 days but Russ and Kimba somehow managed to make it one of the most enjoyable and fun weekends I've had in a while! It was really amazing to see how much everyone in the class improved over the weekend. Don't hesitate to sign up for training at URT, this class was an amazing value for the minimal cost and I think we are very fortunate to have such world class training available to us here in the upstate. Thanks Russ and Kimba! See you next year for BRC2!

Fantastic experience: I recently took the MFS BRC course at URT. Russel, Perry, Kimba and JP were all such great instructors. I came in with next to no experience whatsoever and a strong desire to learn to be safe on the roads! They were very intentional about giving instruction and constructive criticism in a kind and fun way. I was incredibly comfortable in their class. Their training goes above and beyond the bare minimum and made me feel prepared to take on the road (especially after a little more practice of their maneuvers.) They truly want to keep their students safe on the road. And with what seemed like more than 80+ years of riding experience between them, you can’t go wrong! I cannot recommend URT enough!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely fantastic! My wife and I are new riders and Russ and JP were amazing! They are warm, friendly, encouraging, and enthusiastic. Russ is one of the best instructors I've ever met and JP spent time with students so we knew the details for the exam. At the end of the course, JP even spent time with me and my wife showing us his bike equipment, explaining details about using a GPS system, helmet storage on a bike, and many more items. The 1x1 and attention to detail in this class was so inspiriting my wife and I are buying a new Can Am. We will definitely be back for more training with Upstate! Joe & Jen

Fantastic experience: Had a great time here learned some knowledge to increase my knowledge

Fantastic experience: Just finished my 2 day beginner class. Instructors are very passionate about teaching all of us no matter what skill level. They really want you to learn to stay as safe as possible on the road. I learned so much that i would not have on my own. Look forward to continuing my training as I get more miles. I highly recommend this facility

Fantastic experience: I went into this class with no experience. By the end of the second class, I had more confidence in riding a bike than I thought was possible. Russ uses a very hands-on approach to make sure people are comfortable with each activity before moving to the next.

Fantastic experience: Russ and his assistant coach Michael were absolutely amazing. It doesn’t matter what your skill level is, you’ll leave the class feeling safer and more proficient in your abilities. 100% recommend the class to every rider and 100% will be back for more advance courses.

Fantastic experience: HIGHLY RECOMMEND Upstate Rider Training! Russ is a great instructor, very encouraging, and makes learning FUN! Be sure to check out the many different types of ride courses he offers!

Fantastic experience: Great class. Had a great time and learned allot.

Fantastic experience: Russ is awesome! Very accommodating and encouraging to new riders. I live out of state, but I’m going to make it a point to take some of his other classes in the future. I highly recommend this course!

Fantastic experience: Russ and J.P. were great ! I already ride, but I still learned so much more in the class. It was worth the experience. I gained more knowledge, with a few laughs along the way.

Fantastic experience: Russ and Mike were amazing. They helped me learn how to safely drive my motorcycle. They answered all questions I had and also helped on the range as needed. Would highly recommend anyone new or experienced riders to take the courses they offer to help with riding as they offer a lot of information.

Fantastic experience: I had a wonderful experience learning to have “safe fun” on a motorcycle at URT. Russ McCombs makes you feel like you’re learning from a favorite uncle or coach. There is no hiding his passion and enthusiasm while instructing his students. He’s right there along side of you cheering/correcting you as you ride, always with clear, and calm communication. I highly recommend Upstate Rider Training to anyone looking to ride a motorcycle for the first time( like me) or someone wanting to get back on two wheels after several years of not riding. 10 out of 10!

Fantastic experience: Excellent training and honesty it was a ton of fun. Russ keeps things moving without taking away from training. Just an all around great experience for new and experienced riders.

Fantastic experience: Very professional service. Raises awareness and teaches good riding habits.

Fantastic experience: Just completed the MSF course with Russ, 2/13/22. Russ a very upbeat and knowledgeable trainer! I’ve never been on a motorcycle, so I was eager to learn but a little nervous…Russ not only explained everything thoroughly but he demonstrated the exercises we had to perform with the motorcycle. He talked to me a couple of times to calm me down and on the second day I noticed not only my improvement but our whole class improved! Russ will tell you to continue to practice after completing the UpstateRider MSF course, which I wholeheartedly agree with but this class is a fantastic start! You will learn and gain confidence! Thanks Russ!

Fantastic experience: Russ is a excellent rider coach. Super patient and makes learning fun. I feel way more confident and can’t wait to return in the future for an advanced class with Russ.

Fantastic experience: This is a must have class for new and experienced riders. Fantastic coach and excellent equipment, I highly recommend!!

Fantastic experience: My wife and I took the Can Am Rider Education Class with Russ. It was a great and profitable experience for both of us. I would recommend Russ without hesitation to anyone who wants to take the Can Am Class or the motorcycle classes he offers. In working with Russ I found him to be passionate, prepared, and personal. It is clear in talking to Russ that he is passionate about riding and passionate about teaching others how to ride. He loves what he does and it shows. Russ was also prepared for each of our sessions whether on the range or in the class. He kept everything on schedule and his hard work, dedication, and preparation helped us in our learning process. For me, someone being prepared not only tells me what they think about themselves and their work, but also what they think about those they are serving. Lastly, we found Russ to be personal. It is clear that he cares about his students and he wants them to do well, and as Russ says, ride safe. Russ knows when to interject a little humor and when to be serious because, as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation says, "riding is serious fun." My wife and I came to the class with completely different skill levels and experience, but Russ was able to work well with both of us at the same time. Russ is great to work with. He makes sure you learn and have a good time learning. I am hoping that a second level three wheel class will be developed. If Russ is able to offer it, I will be taking it. Russ is a great guy. If you want to learn to ride on two wheels or three, Russ McCombs is your guy.

Fantastic experience: I took an intro course with Russell, the owner, and was blown away. I had been to an intro course with a tech college and struggled so decided to go with a private lesson. Russel was incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and supportive throughout the 2 days making sure I was making progress and understood everything. It was worth every penny, and his prices are great as well. He would have gotten 5 stars even if I hadn't passed, but given he was able to trach me I'm sure he can help anyone learn! Besides that, he is just a great guy who honestly believes in teaching people to be safe on a bike. I witnessed him help a kid who had just bought a bike with no experience and no plan to get it home. He ensured the kid and the bike made it home safely just because it was the right thing to do. I will 100% be heading back to Russell and Upstate Rider Training for further education when the time comes. I highly recommend anyone interested in learning to ride do the same!

Fantastic experience: My first time riding, Russ and Chuck not only showed patience, they coached professionally. I’m glad I hung in both days to successfully complete the course. I’ll return for more training to build my confidence in riding skills. Thank you Russ for running a great class!

Fantastic experience: I just finished the two day beginner course and we had a great time while learning the skills necessary to not only pass the DMV test but for safe riding. The instructor was kind, patient and encouraging. I would highly recommend this course for new and intermediate riders who have not gotten their motorcycle license yet.

Fantastic experience: Like others, I normally never do reviews unless I really feel necessary. With that being said, I’m going to try and make this short and sweet. I just completed the one day (BRC2) class with license waiver and could not be more satisfied. My only complaint is that I didn’t find Russ 30 years ago! (Yes I’m 51, been riding 30+ years and a better rider today because of this class) With the time and care that Russ takes to teach I know he would be great with new riders as well. Newsflash for all riders doing the “permit thing” or riding without…for less than the cost of one ticket for riding without license you can go see Russ spend one day and GET LEGAL!! While also learning at the same time. It’s a no-brainer! Thanks again Russ for the great experience, would’ve given you a 6 star if I could’ve.

Fantastic experience: Rusd is a wonderful, patient, compassionate instructor. You can tell tge passion he has for safety on a motorcycle and helping his students succeed. I did poorly the first day and he set half hour aside before the next days class to work with me individually. They were professional and friendly enough to make jokes to ease our tension as students. I highly recommend this class. They taught us so much. Every new rider needs a coursd like this. I drove fro. Pittsburgh to SC to take tbis course because I had heard it was a good class and I was not disappointed at all.

Fantastic experience: I don’t write reviews often and when I do it’s because I believe something needs to be said, either good or bad. In the case of Upstate Rider Training, I cannot say enough good things. From start to finish the level of professionalism and simplicity is top notch. I even had an issue 3 days prior to class - Russ answered on the first ring and walked me through the steps to ensure I was good to go come range day. At the range, Russ and Chuck made things engaging, even the class work - which is not often easily done. Their bikes are in great shape and had no issues during the course. I even witnessed them moving riders around to find the best fit for them, clearly focused on rider success. Instructions during the riding portion were clear and easy to follow. They made sure to demo each exercise prior to start, so that we knew exactly what to do. During the exercises, there were no dumb questions - which fostered a uniquely inclusive culture between the participants. If riders struggled, they were quick to help, not quick to talk down on. If some required 1:1 or 1:few assistance, that was done without hesitation. Russ and Chuck were somehow able to make every rider feel like the strongest one in the group, without instilling over confidence and negating to point out areas of improvement. If you are considering an MSF course, and are looking in the upstate, you are doing a great disservice to yourself by not looking at Upstate Rider Training. I myself will be back for the Advanced course as soon as I am able. Thank you to Russ and Chuck for an amazing course!

Fantastic experience: I was a little timid getting on a bike going into this class, but it helped to much! The teacher, Mr Russel, was very patient with me even when I stalled a million times. It was fun and I got my license waiver after passing. 10/10 recommend

Fantastic experience: I recently took the Basic Rider Course at Upstate Rider Training and cannot recommend the class any higher. While I was among the lower experienced riders from within the class, there were motorcycle owners and long time motorcyclists that were attempting to get their Motorcycle Endorsement for the first time. There were even students in the class that had never ridden a motorcycle. Despite this wide range of experience, Russ was able to deliver all of the content and structure the practical exercises in a manner that kept everyone focused and involved while continuously building on knowledge and skills throughout the two day curriculum. Russ applies the appropriate balance of practical knowledge and good humored banter through a variety of training aides and includes all the students while covering the material. I felt very well prepared for both the written knowledge test as well as the actual riding skills evaluation. Russ also makes the DMV process incredibly efficient with a step by step completion of the necessary paperwork that had me in and out of the DMV office in less than 20 minutes the day after the Basic Rider Course. Beyond the required information needed to complete the course, Russ is a wealth of knowledge on all topics related to motorcycling. He is a great ambassador to the sport and provided much appreciated insight into things to consider when contemplating a first motorcycle, new riding gear and even short rides and day trips in the upstate area based upon skill and confidence. I suspect that if I asked Russ if I could join him on a ride I am sure he would include me despite the multiple decades worth of our respective experience gap. Lastly, Russ is clearly a proud American patriot with a family both currently and previously serving in the military AND he has great snacks and cold beverages available throughout the class. I intend to continue improving and evaluating my motorcycle skills and never intend to look for an alternative facility or instructor. I am 100% confident and satisfied in Upstate Rider Training and Russ McCombs.

Fantastic experience: I had a great experience on the basic rider training course. The owner, Russ, is passionate about motorcycle safety and his enthusiasm makes the course really engaging. I learned some useful skills and feel I am a safer rider because of it. I highly recommend this course to new riders and anyone looking to get their motorcycle drivers license.

Fantastic experience: I am new to riding with no experience . Russ made me feel at ease and taught us so much . I enjoyed feeling my confidence grow over the weekend . The price was great ! I left the class feeling ready to ride while knowing the safety factors involved with daily driving a bike . I would recommend his classes to new riders as well as experienced riders . Any safety learned could save your life or the life of another . I took the 3 wheel motorcycle class and am considering taking the 2 wheel also . I made new friends while learning a new skill . Awesome experience !!!!

Fantastic experience: I completed the Upstate Rider Training this past weekend and my experience was excellent. Russ trains you beyond the state DMV skills test. His course availability was better than any of the other MSF training courses offered locally. I highly recommend his course.

Fantastic experience: I had an excellent time with Russ being my instructor! He’s very knowledgeable. He’s very nice and calm. Always gives you positive encouragement and positive criticism! All around a very positive experience! Thanks a lot, Russ!

Fantastic experience: I recently took the MSF course with Russ at Upstate Rider Training in Spartanburg SC and it was nothing short of amazing. Russ is a very knowledgeable and professional teacher who really cares about his students and their ability to ride safely. He takes time out of his schedule to work with riders who may need some more help and is always ready to give a helpful tip about how to ride motorcycles. I remember waking up and going to the first class with him and the only thing I wanted to do afterwards was ride. In the future I plan to enroll in his more advanced classes. I highly recommend this option over any other training course and definitely over simply taking the DMV test. The knowledge he has passed to me has been invaluable! Thanks Russ!

Fantastic experience: Great instructor, great school. Had an awesome time. Fundamentals are key! Feel much safer after Mr. Russ instruction! Great deal of help.

Fantastic experience: Russ is an amazing professor, he takes the time you need to show you and understand how to ride a motorcycle safely; it's an all in hand's class Safety course was very interesting with a couple of activities that show you real life situations. I'm very satisfied with this class, I got my driver's license skill test approved and I'm definitely coming back in a couple months for advanced class

Fantastic experience: I thought I knew a fair about riding a motorcycle. Russ was excellent at explaining everything we went through both in the class room setting and out on the range. I learned a lot more than I thought I would about riding and basic road skills. I gained a ton more confidence on a motorcycle and learned better handling skills of the motorcycle while I was there. The classes were very informative and went a pace that was conducive for the whole class. I feel a lot better about getting out on the road on a motorcycle now.