Westside Motorcycle Academy

Fantastic experience: Tienen clase en español...

Fantastic experience: I just passed the CMSP course at Westside Motorcycle Academy. I highly recommend this place, the instructors are highly knowledgeable they helped me understand the risks involved in riding a motorcycle and how to properly manage them and reduce those risks. We have to remember this is a pass or fail course so just pay attention to their feedback and try to improve them while you are riding in their parking lot. I made this small video just to share what you could expect when you take their course, make sure you enjoy the experience and learn.

Fantastic experience: I had an amazing day of learning, Bob is super sweet! Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: Just completed the Premier Course (1DPC) today. I have ridden road bikes for 10+ years, and I learnt a lot. I highly recommend this to anyone, all riders should actually take this course every few years to refresh their memory and focus. You must be at an intermediate level to participate, to qualify for the course the first thing you do in the morning is basically the DMV skill test. My instructor was Bob, one of the best teachers I have had my entire life: he was great at giving instructions and providing effective feedback, and he helped everyone in the class with the same attention. Congratulations to Bob and team, I was blown away; keep up the good work, I will see you again !

Fantastic experience: I got my Intermediate class 1 day PC Bob the instructor was amazing on instrutions and professional advise and tips on how to drive a motorcycle 5 star review well recommended for any one that would like to get M license endorsement

Fantastic experience: This was the best motorcycle class experience I've ever been a part of. I would recommend this school for anyone who has a desire to ride legally. The instructors are on point and experienced. I give them ten stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fantastic experience: The trainers at the Westside motorcycle safety academy are a group of OUSTANDING!!! Kevin, Carl the (test proctor) I believe that’s his name, and bob did an absolutely fantastic job of teaching the basics on how to ride a motorcycle. They were patient, and very knowledgeable on how to ride a motorcycle. I have ZERO regrets, I’d strongly recommend Westside academy to anyone who is looking to get some top tier motorcycle training!!! Thank you guys!!!

Negative experience: I want to rewrite my original post THIS COURSE IS NOT FOR NEWBIES! As a complete beginner, I was lost from the very beginning. With 12 students in the class and barely any time to practice, most of it was spent just trying to find the friction zone and keeping the bike running. You might think it's not the instructors' fault — but they ignored me every time I asked for help (three times in total). Instead of explaining my mistakes or offering guidance, they just told me to practice more and retake the course. I've called and emailed multiple times with no response. Only after posting my review did I receive two calls. Honestly, you'd learn a lot more from watching YouTube videos. I hope the money I paid at least goes toward fixing those expired plates and getting insurance. They need to start practicing what they preach. !!! DO NOT ENROLL !!! And you claim there's false information? Really? And saying that riding a motorcycle may not be the best choice for me? Seriously? That's insulting. You should understand that every person learns differently.

Fantastic experience: ---- I LOVE ❤ Westside ❤ Motorcycle Academy!! They are the BEST! Basic Training. Intermediate Training. Refresher Training. Private Lessons. Returning Rider Discounts!! Serving the community since 2005. Female owned. Train. Ride. Repeat!! ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Fantastic experience: Kevin and Bob were my instructors for the beginners riding course! Knowledgeable, patient, experienced and happily answered the dozens of questions that I kept conning up with every hour. Would highly recommend

Fantastic experience: This was such a great experience. Kevin and Bob the instructors at the safety riding course were absolute gems and I didn’t feel awkward asking questions or even pausing on my bike when I didn’t feel confident to move forward when I had questions. I have ridden little groms over the years with friends for fun but wanted to do this right and get comfortable being on the road. 5-6 years ago I went to a different motorcycle school that wasn’t West Side and the instructors felt I wasn’t teachable (dropped the bike during the serpentine and was given a bike much too heavy and tall for my 5’2 self) and got cut immediately on the first day. I was nervous but hopeful coming into this new school, and the awesome Erika recommended this school and I was so happy I took her advice a year later. So! Here we are now: ready and more confident and settled in myself. I passed the class and can’t wait to finally get out there and ride with my family and friends. Very thankful for the patience of the instructors and the heavy informative online classes that Carl had in the evenings. I highly recommend this school - things felt tailored to each student and I felt I got great feedback. Thanks you guys I’ve been wanting to do this for years and super stoked that I had the instructors that I did.

Fantastic experience: Had the best time ever at Westside Motorcycle Academy, and just got my license only three days after completing the course! They have such a great team and cover a lot of ground in a few short days. I felt really supported each step of the way and am feeling informed and confident, and excited to get out there and ride (safely)! Erika was a great communicator before, during, and after and made sure I had everything I needed prior to the course starting. After passing the course, she ensured I got my paperwork day-of so I could go to the DMV first thing the next week and has offered to continue to be a resource should questions arise in the future. Kevin & Bob were awesome instructors who really paid attention to each individual rider to ensure we got the feedback we needed to improve our riding. I was so impressed that every single student was independently riding their bikes within the first hour of the class. So cool! Carl covered a huge amount of material in the online class. Between his instruction and the written information provided, I was able to pass the DMV written test on my first try. My classmates were wonderful as well, with a great mix of experience and backgrounds. I was glad to have other women in the class and look forward to finding & building my own riding community moving forward!

Fantastic experience: Look if you are not cocky and stubborn, and willing to learn, this place is the best. In whatever course you take the instructors are amazing people who want to help you learn and each course is specifically designed to help you learn to ride and improve your skills. I seriously feel that if you don’t like your class you are either seriously unlucky or seriously stubborn.

Fantastic experience: Great for beginners that want to get started learning to ride a motorcycle. They do a good job with classroom and on the range skill lessons! It was practical and helpful!

Fantastic experience: They are super great teachers, I had so much fun. If you’re not grasping what you need to do they’ll give you tips, adjustments and the confidence to try again and just have fun. Thank you so much! xoxo

Fantastic experience: Just completed the motorcycle course with zero prior experience. I attribute my success largely to Kevin and Bob’s encouraging, friendly, and positive instruction, I learned to start, maneuver, turn, brake, shift gears, perform evasive maneuvers, and control the bike in turns ect. Their clear and supportive teaching made all the difference. The hands-on practice was excellent, and the environment was great. Overall, I am very satisfied with the course and feel confident in my basic riding skills. Nice fact is there is a $100 discount for any future course.

Fantastic experience: Bob and Kevin --the dream team of moto trainers. How they wrangle teams of newbies is definitely something of skill that takes almost saintly patience (and experience herding cats) --especially when they're having to repeat the same thing over and over to the same people (me): "Squeeze the brake harder" -- next round... "No I mean REALLY squeeze the brake harder" --next round "No REALLY REALLY REALLY SQUEEZE THAT BRAKE LIKE YOUR "LIFE DEPENDS ON IT -- AND IT DOES!" If I were him I probably would have slapped me. LOL. This was the second time I took this course --the first time failing the rider test miserably. So of course I blame it on the fact Kevin and Bob weren't the day two instructors then. HA! Couldn't have anything to do with me never having been on a motorcycle now could it? Anyways... it was money well spent because I absorbed a lot more this time --partly for having some more experience actually riding with a permit since the first go I was a lot more relaxed and mentally prepared. The exercises are well thought out and give a great base of skills to build on that I never would have learned on my own. AND!! You get real time live feedback on what you're doing wrong. Or what can be improved --something only a highly skilled and attentive eye could give!! My only complaint is just as I was getting decent at one exercise we were on to the next one. However clearly it did give me enough to pass the test and it's a course meant to do just that and not finely hone any one skill. That's up to us now. As of 48 hours after the class I am now a proud carrier of a M1 (temp lic. until the real one comes in 2 weeks) PS. Never never never never never never never never never never never never never go to DMV on a Monday. 4 hours into it I was alternately contemplating homicide/suicide... homicide/suicide... homicide/suicide...

Negative experience: Class was OK covered the basics, but honrstly seems like a calculated scam. Was the only student with a permit and actual riding experience, only took it for the insurance break. Trainers failed me because they said I didnt stop right? I didnt do a turn right? I wasn't at speed? Was that checked with an actual speed gun? I did everything right and there where people that missed all the cones, put there feet down, where going slow and they messed up the quick stop BAD. All passed. They charge 50 per test to retest, whatever. Called office to reschedule, no answer. Waited for Ericka and asked to take the test with different trainers because the only reason they failed me is because BOB from day 1 didnt like my bike's exhaust and was conplaining abiut how its illegal, annoying, loud pipes dont save lives, and kept making snide comments both days at the range because of a pretty obvious personal issue with my bike. She said she can't schedule me with different trainers. Reporting to CMSP, California department of consumer affairs, and BBB. Total scam school PLEASE READ THE REVIEWS! Enough people to start a class action lawsuit against this pathetic excuse of a motorcycle school!!! Giving CHP a bad name. Bob was supposed to be my instructor not my bike critic. Completely unprofessional and im fighting this charge, not paying into your scam school. Attached are relevant real reviews from people thst had the same experiences.

Fantastic experience: Bicycler turned motorcyclist in one weekend. Took the 3 day course. Well worth it! Instructors were knowledgable and good to work with. Made me feel comfortable and confident on the motorcycle from day 1. The course breaks skills down piece by piece and you do them over and over to get better at them. Worked for me!

Negative experience: Even though I failed the test. I couldn't believe there were students who performed much worse than me passing. Students who couldn't ride straight or keep the bike from stalling. I wouldn't have a clear conscience handing those waivers to them. The bikes were in various conditions, but mine was particularly awful. There was no friction zone in the clutch. When shifting from 2nd gear to 1st, it would go into neutral instead. I brought this up to Bob and was told not to worry. If given to a rider with little to no experience, I would be very concerned and could cause an accident.

Fantastic experience: I didn't think I could be comfortable riding a motorcycle but now I am after just two days of range training! Instructors Bob, Erika, and Carl were very helpful. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Excellent place to start riding great instructors bob is the funniest instructor very professional I recommend 100%

Fantastic experience: Fun and informative, went from no experience to functional in a weekend and took a roadtrip from LA to SF a month later!

Fantastic experience: Friendly coaches with a lot skill super fan course I highly recommend

Fantastic experience: Great beginner course, wonderful instructors, Erika looking out for each of us, especially me. I had to take the course twice to pass the riding exam, but that turned out for the best to develop my skills. My purpose was to ride in Southeast Asia. Photo taken in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Fantastic experience: Amazing staff/trainers at Westside Motorcycle Academy. Learn very important safety rules & skills as a beginner rider. This class gave me the confidence to ride more comfortable by applying the safety & skills knowledge they set in the course. Thank you , Bob & Elliot for guidance and tips given! Really recommend them ! Amazing crew!!! Looking forward to come back for the advance course soon!

Fantastic experience: Prior to coming to the Westside Motorcycle Academy, I had zero riding experience and plenty of anxiety about getting on a bike. I now have my M1 license. I set a goal for myself, achieved it, and am damn proud of myself. I couldn't have gotten here without the help from the friendly and helpful team at Westside (Bob, Elliot, and Erika). If you are looking for a motorcycle safety course in LA, I recommend this one. I shopped around for classes, and chose this school because have all the information you need to know, including the ability to sign up, on their website. The price was competitive with all schools I checked with for group classes, and the riding range is easily accessible via public transportation. The instructional portion was online, which was convenient. To be successful, my advice: -Listen and follow instructions on and off the range. They are very clear of what they expect from you. Don't be different. -Study for the DMV test when the time comes. Seriously! If you are thinking of getting a motorcycle license, I did it and so can you!

Fantastic experience: They are very friendly and they will take the time to explain and make you learn how to ride. I had fun learning how to do proper cornering, using the clutch, shifting gears. Bobs is absolutely the best. Thank you guys

Fantastic experience: A 5 stars review that could be a 10 stars one. It was very simple and easy to choose the course on the website and they offer 2 types of schedule. I picked the AM riding range one as it took place 2 weeks ago (August) as it is a bit cooler during that period in the mornings. Upon registration I received a confirmation email will the complete detailed instructions on the meetings and driving range location and hours + the student instructions' PDF to prepare me for the classes. That was very well explained. Some time before the 1st session, I have received the CSMP student handbook for both the knowledge session and the practice one. That gave me plenty of time to review it before the the 1st class. They also send you the DMV motorcycle booklet in a PDF to prepare yourself for the DMV test. VERY convenient! The "theory" session instructor, Bob, was really knowledgeable and passionate about Motorcyclism. He delivered with a great energy and allowed some good interactions. That helped a lot of us to have great answers and to assimilate the course better. On the driving range, we were lucky enough to have instructors (Kevin, Tom, Rich) who really cared about getting us comfortable with riding a motorcycle for the 1st time. Not just that, they want you to learn the skills that will make you safe on the road. They make you repeat each exercice until it becomes a more natural mechanism, and they coach you personally in between. They really want to empower your driving skills while giving you the keys to successful good habits. On the final day, Erika was present for our knowledge test. She makes sure that everyone feels comfortable, she is there of you have any questions. What's more, I was able to chat a bit with her after the certification and she had nothing but EXCELLENT advice. I stayed also in touch to ask her opinion on a pre-owned motorcycle that I was looking to buy and pointed me in the good direction. I started riding with my own bike and I have now imprinted in my mind all the SPAT, AAA techniques. Once I have spent a few months riding, I will definitely take the Intermediate course as well. Continuous education, like in anything else, is what keeps you updated, refreshed, and better at what you do. Thank you Erika and the whole team at Westside Motorcycle Academy.

Fantastic experience: Great instructions from Bob D. and Elliott L. Learned a lot about safe riding and proper technique. Erika W. was great getting me into the right class and explaining what I needed to bring. Received my waiver and learned so much more. Very worthwhile.

Fantastic experience: Bob is a really good teacher and instructor

Fantastic experience: Amazing service and experience! The instructors went above and beyond what I expected and care a lot about your safety and learning the right way.

Fantastic experience: As a completely new rider, this was the hands down best experience I've had in learning something new. Riding a motorcycle is challenging, but FOLLOW DIRECTIONS and they will correct your mistakes.

Negative experience: Wow. Singed up for a class and left a message about wether the class was right for me because I was on a vespa. Upon their calling me back I was asking about the facts of the class and the staff got incredibly defensive. Continued to INSULT me over the phone...Not sure but seems someone was having a bad day and couldn't listen to any rational inquiries. My refund email- which frankly I was still attempting to take the class- was passive aggressive and rude. It's 350 dollars to get three chances to take the DMV course. That's basically what you're paying for. I was happy to believe it or not and I suggested, and offered "I should go practice" and the woman got wildly defensive. Seems they have guilt about the racket they're conducting. Please whoever runs this place talk to that woman about her behavior to willing and eager customers. Seems now too they're commenting that I failed the motorcycle course at the DMV. Hell yes I did, why do you think I was trying to sign up for your course?!?!??! The passive aggression is real folks, and how deeply unprofessional to try to shame me for a: being concerned about a 350 investment (classest) and for b: not passing the course on my first try (why I'm reaching out to a school to be better!) Give this woman a day off.

Fantastic experience: All staff was great! If you want to get ready to drive a motorcycle this is the way to start.

Negative experience: I paid 350$ for the class attended online class 1st day great instructor very informative. The problem was the 2nd day with a different instructor, if you are a "novice" rider this isn't the school for you they teach you by reading off a handbook not really hands on, if you ask about a gear change they'll just repeat what's In the handbook they WILL NOT actually show you how to do it the right way. I was about 2 hours in to the 2nd day of class and I stopped to ask the instructor a question he already seemed irritated and said don't stop traffic so I had to keep going. I stopped the bike and asked him a direct question about a gear change he just repeated what he had read earlier from the handbook. The bike turned off while I tried to join the ongoing bike traffic which the instructors didn't bother to help me with. He turned off my bike and said you're done , and I said why, he said you dropped the bike. I said can you at least show me the right way to do it he said, no you're done you can take the class again (repay 350$). He didn't even try to show me how to avoid the bike from turning off, if I would've know that they don't teach you how to actually ride a bike the correct and safe way I would've gone to another school, which I did "RIDE 2 RIDE AGAIN" in Hawthorne was 100 x better to actually learn how to ride. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY HERE.

Fantastic experience: Really great class and I learned a lot. Definitely the way I would recommend for beginners looking to learn rather then buying a bike first and just going to the dmv.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic experience. Passed first attempt. Both 50 question written and course. This was worth every penny. Instructors were fantastic and gave you 1 on 1 instruction if needed. I feel 100% confident riding now.

Fantastic experience: Classes and instructors were great, definitely worth the money!

Negative experience: The course was a DISASTER. They were short on time and took too many students. So they rushed through everything. The whole class was behind and instead of caring we all need help. She yelled at the group. :You should know this by now!" And said "Screw it, we are moving forward anyway" Next day. Most of the class failed and had to repay and retake it. Don't come here. They are taking on more than they can handle and if you can't ride already you will not be helped and can risk your life

Negative experience: SHUT TH3M DOWN!!! THEY ARE STEALING MONEY AND NOT REPLYING. PLEASE DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY.

Negative experience: They do not give you what is promised. Took my money and ignored my calls for months. I REGISTERED AND I NEVER got my class. Finally they replied and said they do not have to guarantee completion. It's a scam. DO NOT GIVE THEM YOUR MONEY.

Negative experience: RUN DO NOT WALK. THIS IS A SCAM. There is no guarantee you will get a certificate. They cannot accommodate every student so they take your money and deny you the course as they please. They said it was in the contract. YOU ARE NOT GUARANTEED COMPLETION. They WILL use this against you at random. The school discriminates against whomever they chose. On top of that, the owner is very aggressive and literally yells at you in class and in person if you don't understand and you're a beginner. She doesn't answer your questions at all and expects you to learn from observation and all the material is rushed. It is UNSAFE for beginners. I do not recommend coming here to learn. PLEASE go to any other motorcycle school!

Fantastic experience: Fantastic instructors and classes. After you pass the class you take their certification to the DMV and get your M1 motorcycle license. Very glad I chose this course.

Fantastic experience: The online courses were great and the field training were even better. Instructors were VERY knowledgeable with decades of experience each. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking to get trained for your license.

Fantastic experience: The instructors are extremely good at their job. Although the course is strict about time and attendance, it makes sense because it’s a safety course. Overall, I was so impressed with their instruction. When I needed tweaks, their tips really worked and I could see how my riding improved!

Fantastic experience: High energy and patient instructors, took time to tell people individually what they could be doing differently to ensure success. Even if you don’t pass you will learn and improve!

Negative experience: I don’t feel like this school is for beginners at all.. Read the contract carefully because even if you don’t like the class they will not return your money..

Fantastic experience: The instructors here are great. I especially enjoyed Marna's wit and humor. Kevin helped me a lot with my riding skills and Erika was kind enough to complete the whole classes DMV paperwork onsite so we didn't have to wait for it in the snail mail. All and all, a great team and great course. I will definitely be back for advanced training.

Fantastic experience: I had such great time in the course, the instructors were fun and super professional! Thanks for such a great experience!

Fantastic experience: Fantastic class with fantastic instructors. The classes and lessons are long but worth it. I got my motorcycle license the day after I finished the course and passed the tests. Def bring your A game to the class as I don't recommend coming back for a re-test.

Fantastic experience: I was in the class at 6:45 in the morning, and the teacher asked you to arrive 10 to 15 minutes earlier. Although it sounds crazy, it’s not too hot in the morning if you wear a full set of motorcycle gear to practice. They also offer courses starting at 11:45am. Two teachers tutor 10 students in each class. I have experienced 4 teachers in two days. Some teachers have strict time requirements, but all teachers are very patient and responsible. There will be a cycling test and a written test on the last day. The results of the written test can be mailed or waited on the spot. If you pass, you will be able to get the results on the same day and go to DMV to apply for driver license. In addition, the school provides helmets, gloves and eye protection, of course you can bring your own.

Positive experience: This is a great course for beginner riders. Instructors go through a lot of information that keeps you safe on the road. Erika, Marna, Bob, Nick and Kevin were great. You have the option of getting your paperwork right after you pass both written and skills test. The administration is responsive when you have questions. I would highly recommend. I have no prior experience riding.

Fantastic experience: Great instructors and streamlined processes. Got my DL 389 the same day as the test!

Fantastic experience: Great experience whilst learning how to ride on a motorcycle. The instructors made it so easy for us, students to understand and practice. Kevin and Nik were so fun and informative to have. Never did I feel nervous to talk to either one. Definitely would recommend to anyone.

Fantastic experience: Got my certificate less than a week after passing. I had no prior experience on a motorcycle, and all the instructors were experienced and fun to be around.

Fantastic experience: Erika from Westside Motorcycle Academy is awesome. She is a very helpful and a very polite lady. I had a few questions about the course and she made every effort to answer all my questions and concerns.

Fantastic experience: I've been riding motorcycles since I was a kid. I learned quite a bit for the 3 day course. I found it informative and useful. Great instructors. I would definitely recommend taking the course.

Fantastic experience: WestSide Motorcycle Academy some of the best instructors I have taken a basic class to get my license 18 months ago and have taking their refresher classes five times. Outstanding instructions for beginners and advanced Riders

Fantastic experience: The motorcycle was heavier then i thought so i got nervous and worried went i first sat down. I'm skinny so i was worry i might drop it or worst fall. But little by little, stalling the bike multiple times, and being "rigid and stiff", i was able to relax and learn. I'm super confident now and i might be renting or maybe buying a bike soon. Youtube videos did not prepare me at all, lol. Also the Motorcycle academy employs a diverse staff of women and men with undeniable skills.

Negative experience: This school is a scam. I completed the class, passed with flying colors and was told my certificate will be mailed to me to give to the dmv upon my appointment to waive the riding portion. I never received my certificate and was told by the school I had to go to a third party company to retrieve a “copy” since the original was “lost in the mail”. I emailed the third party and never got a response or any sort of answer from the third party. I spoke to Westside Motorcycle Academy again and I have still received no further answers or help. I have no idea how to take further action but in all honesty and reality; they just robbed me for my money and gave me no certificate after I completed and PASSED the class.

Fantastic experience: Great class. Professional instructors. Very informative... and fun!