Appalachian Rider Education Program

Fantastic experience: Class was very informative! Learned new skills! Instructors were amazing. Highly recommended taking the class!

Fantastic experience: I recently completed the Basic RiderCourse (BRC) in Kingsport, and I was thoroughly impressed with the entire experience. From start to finish, it was an exceptional program that I would highly recommend to anyone looking to learn to ride or brush up on their skills. Our instructor, Heather, was truly outstanding. She has a remarkable ability to clearly explain complex concepts and then effectively demonstrate them, ensuring everyone understood the material. What stood out the most was her patience in answering all of our questions, no matter how basic they might have seemed. After each practice session, Heather provided personalized, constructive feedback that was incredibly valuable in helping me improve. As someone who already had some experience on a motorcycle, I was genuinely surprised to witness the progress of individuals in the class who had never even touched a clutch before. By the end of the course, they looked like seasoned riders, which speaks volumes about the effectiveness of the instruction. It was sincerely impressive to see their transformation in such a short time. For myself, the BRC was incredibly beneficial in making me aware of some bad habits I had unknowingly developed over time. It also served as a much-needed refresher on fundamental safety practices that had perhaps become less conscious over the years. Thank you to Heather and the entire team for an awesome experience! I left the course feeling much more confident and safer on the road. If you're looking for a top-notch motorcycle safety course in the Kingsport area, look no further than this BRC at E.R.E.P Thanks

Fantastic experience: Loved everything this course is about! They’ve shown that any fool can get on a bike and go fast in a straight line. This teaches the core elements of handling and operating a bike! By far the best program around! If completed, you get a certificate for your license endorsement and a card for your insurance break! Instructor is very skilled and knowledgable. Just listen, follow instructions, cover that clutch in the event that things get squirrelly, and you’ll be just fine, if not better than when you walked into this course! Thank you Mrs. Heather (and Corey) for everything!

Fantastic experience: HEATHER!!!! Owner, operator, inspiration. I walked into that parking lot never driving a bike in my life. I walked out with the confidence to go buy myself a one and get out on the road! what an instructor to have! She means business, only because she cares about your life! The skills and information that you take away from this riding course is imperative to the safety of yourself and others. Save some lives and come take this course with Heather. It’ll be one of the best decision you’ve made.

Fantastic experience: Perfect for the beginner rider and novice who want that xtra confidence building platform.

Fantastic experience: First off, this is not a "buy your license" thing, it's an actual training course that depends on YOU to pass. I had an absolutely fantastic time taking the MSF course. The instructors were knowledgeable, supportive, and made the entire experience both fun and educational. I came in with very little riding experience and left feeling confident and much more informed. The course was well-structured, hands-on, and covered everything from basic skills to real-world safety strategies. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning to ride or improving their motorcycle skills. Worth every minute!

Fantastic experience: Took this course back in August of 2024 and it was truly the best experience. I went in really doubting if I could do this, nervous, with 0 knowledge. I left feeling confident and eager to take on a new adventure. I still have a lot to learn and experience to gain - but because of this course - i have the knowledge to do it! Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend Heather and Ricardo were very informative and helpful

Fantastic experience: Is an Amazing Place , Ricardo He is awesome at doing his job. Highly recommend 10 out 10

Fantastic experience: Heather and Richardo are both very good instructors. Both explain things in a manner that is clear and correct you when you make mistakes.

Fantastic experience: The instructors where amazing and informed me well and supportive Ricardo was amazing and positive

Fantastic experience: Went through the course for the second time in my life, the first time being when I was 19 eleven years ago. Figured it's about time I brush back up on the basics and get that insurance discount. Just like the first go around I got to go home with plenty of useful riding techniques even after riding all these years. Will be looking at returning for the advanced course in the future for sure! Thank you to our class instructors Ricardo and Heather for all you do!

Fantastic experience: Ricardo and heather were amazing instructors and really took the time to show our class how to ride and helped eradicate those bad habits some of us had. Me especially lol. Had a great time! Well worth the money! Afterwards all I had to do was present my certificate and an eye exam at my DMV and my license was done!!! Wow tht made it easy!!!!

Fantastic experience: Had a great time learning new skills and correcting some bad habits. Heather & Ricardo made a great team, offering strict correction for your safety yet doing it with compassion. Definitely a must attend class for new riders and those wanting to brush up on basic skills, the ones you need to stay out of harms way.

Fantastic experience: I went into this class with some riding experience! Heather and Ricardo taught me that the experience I had definitely needed polishing. Their patience with myself and the other riders is commendable! They are knowledgeable and great to work with and I’ll recommend them to anyone interested in getting their motorcycle license.

Fantastic experience: Erica was an excellent teacher, I highly recommend this program, didn't know a thing about riding 2 wheels before going in and within that first day I was comfortable riding around and practicing. By the end of the course I was comfortable getting on my bike and riding around a little bit.

Fantastic experience: Just completed the basic Riders course with Ryan and Erica, they were outstanding. The course was very helpful and the instructors were knowledgeable and helpful. I would strongly recommend this class to anyone getting into the sport of motorcycling.

Fantastic experience: Heather and Ryan were amazing! Amazing place to learn riding safety, and they're very thorough!

Fantastic experience: I had not rode a motorcycle before taking the MSF course but with the instructors help and coaching along with there numerous years of experience I got through the class and passed the course. I am about to go back now 2-3 years later for the experienced course though I feel I should have went back sooner and should do a class once every year then also practice on my own at the house 20/80 is what that's called, but I recommend every rider to do this for sure. Thanks to the instructors and to anyone who reads this stay safe and keep it shiny side up.

Positive experience: Great class for all riders Ricardo was a great instructor very knowledgeable an very patient an professional. Can't really say that about the other instructor she was very snarky at times seemed like she was on some power trip but other than it was great class learned alot from this experience, I really don't like to write reviews on things like this but I just wanted people to know about my experience from this me an my wife really got a better understanding of riding an safety.

Fantastic experience: I never leave reviews, however, I’ve seen another review saying how this course is not for beginners. That same commenter was in my course group for maybe 4 hours and then ditched without saying anything and left the rest of us waiting for them in 90 degree weather. I had Ricardo and heather as instructors. They have different styles of teaching, however, I feel that if you’re willing to learn and take constructive advice then you are more than capable of learning. I had no previous experience riding, being on, or even driving anything with a gear shift, however I passed the course and had a lot of fun. It may have been hot but there were frequent breaks and if needed, telling an instructor you need a longer break will get you one. I loved Ricardo! he had an amazing way of teaching and a great sense of humor. He was supportive, patient, and kind. Heather was also a great instructor. I learned a lot from her and she was always willing to help with any questions I had, even if they were simple and sometimes obvious. But hey it’s better to be safe than sorry. I think this course is great for beginners especially with Ricardo. Don’t let this course intimidate you, it’s fun!

Negative experience: I was excited about this class but ended up being very disappointed. Me and my mom took this class together but ended up just leaving in the middle of it. This class is not for beginners like they said. First they do not follow all the rules listed in the course. Someone in our class did not finish the five hour course online and was still able to train. the class started at 7 and Most everyone got there around 7:20-7:30. Heather Miller is a complete b***h and was not encouraging during the course. When learning I don’t want to get belittled when I have no idea what I’m doing. Others in the class felt the same way and were not of fan of her. This made the class not enjoyable for me. Ricardo was an amazing coach and made sure to describe things I didn’t understand. They did not make sure everyone could complete each exercise and understand what they were doing. Over half the people in my class had motorcycle experience and were just there for a license. We only had 2 coaches for a class of 10 and not everyone was on the same level of riding. There definitely needed to be someone else there that would really work with the new riders to make sure we were doing everything right. They would just move along to the next course and I felt by the second day that I wouldn’t have passed the riding test. The school parking lot is also not reasonable for training. There is not enough space and there are no bathrooms on site. You have to drive to “food city” to use the bathroom and that’s when they actually give you a break. We were in 95 degree weather and they kept telling us we would get a break and then just told us to drink water and come right back. Waste of time and money…

Fantastic experience: I really enjoyed and learned a lot this weekend. Erika and Ricardo were wonderful coaches and very patient with me and everyone. They had wonderful personalities which made the experience a lot of fun and were very knowledgeable in what they were teaching us. I’ll forever be grateful for the both of them on getting me started on this motorcycle journey.

Fantastic experience: Jim Bridges was my instructor. I'm a crash survivor who was given a faulty bike in March in a course in Chattanooga. I researched and found AREP. I have had a bike since 9/2023 but was terrified to try alone. During the course, my anxiety was through the roof and he noticed and did something amazing to calm me. I almost quit right before my exam part, because my broken wrist from the first course was hurting so badly I couldn't concentrate on his instructions. Instead of letting me give up, he listened and walked the exercises for me so I understood. I finally have my dream. I have to add...long live my Daddy Wayne "Spider" Baker. Thank you, Jim. You made my dream come true...

Fantastic experience: It's great so far! Day 2 tomorrow. Can't wait!

Negative experience: One thing I will never tolerate, is watching a grown man belittle a woman because she can’t remember everything. Second day of riding in her entire life and Mr. Martin Davis decides to be a real big man and scream at her until she is hysterically crying. I don’t know about the rest of you guys but my second day riding, I made a lot of mistakes too. But apparently Mr. Davis learned everything in 10 minutes. He is unprofessional, and unfit to teach at this caliber of a school. I send about 50-100 people there throughout the year. But I will never be doing that ever again.

Fantastic experience: I took and passed the basic rider education program this past weekend. The morning of my class I was reading some of these reviews and I’m not going to lie the bad ones had me kind of nervous. After just a couple hours into the first day, all I could do was ask myself what were these people doing to make themselves so miserable while taking this course. Jim Bridges was my instructor. He was exceptionally thorough from start to finish. Explained each excersize, and it’s entirety. And assisted us along the way if we had any issues. Every time I get on my bike now and ride all I hear is him telling me to turn my head. He taught me a lot about having faith in the bike. I have so much respect for this class and all of its instructors, because not just anyone could do what they do.

Fantastic experience: I completed (and passed) the Appalachian Basic Rider Course this past weekend. The class was structured and it’s evident the instructors truly care about what they’re teaching. Martin was the primary instructor I worked with and he was very straight forward and all riders knew his expectations. Jim (owner) was also present and super helpful. He made sure no rider was left behind in any exercise, and he allowed me to put in some extra time to complete a skill that I wasn’t picking up on. He gave get tips and easily identified the problems and where people needed more assistance. Jim truly cares about this program and does it for all the right reasons. I’d recommend this to anyone interested in riding.

Negative experience: All of the instructors but one were excellent. Unfortunately, Jim Cook, the founder, owner, and lead instructor is enough to bring the whole program down. My first warning sign was that all of the women were selected to be in groups away from Jim. The course is advertised for anyone able to ride a two wheeled bicycle, but from start to finish, Jim was aggressive, condescending, and inept. Overall he was just an awful example for anyone who calls themselves an instructor. He got progressively more frustrated with the speed of my progress, and was in my face over and over each time I didn't meet his expectations. I told him my main issue was nerves. his response was "get your head in the game!!!!". sorry, Jim, but I'm not the same as the middle school students I assume you've mistreated. I continued to do my best with all the exercises, being offerered no useful advice from Jim. The one time I asked for clarification on instructions, before I knew better, he just stared at me like he wanted to fight, silent, waiting for his chance to strike. Never responded, I sat and waited for his episode to end for about 30 seconds but I wasn't super interested in being a PSTD fatality. A few minutes later he told me to park, and after leaving me in his little corner for about 15 minutes, slowly meandered toward me and told me I should reconsider riding a motorcycle, and that I should leave. He couldn't resist suggesting I pay him another $200 to try again after I had learned how to ride on my own. I received no offer to finish my training or to take my assessment. This person shouldn't be trusted with peoples kids without supervision, or other peoples wives. He's a little 5'6" powder keg, ready to blow at a moments notice. They have a no refund policy. But services rendered were not in accordance with what was promised. I wish his ex-wife the best, this is the most divorced man I have ever encountered.

Fantastic experience: I recommend this safety course for any experience level you are or believe you are. Knowledge of safety and confidence in developed skill are key and these guys nailed it. It is affirming right from the beginning survey in the e-course, always checking for priority in safety and confidence level, and the instructors reinforce everything discussed in the course and translate that quite well to the bike. Jim cook and his entire team are precise and their real-time coaching with the 12 of us this weekend was a pleasure. Changing the perception of an operator on the road is huge and the method they use works. Thanks!

Fantastic experience: My 15 yr old daughter and I taken the two day class ! We both pass ! But let me tell y'all u won't find an better place to take this Course. Y'all will get hot , Sweaty and end up Stinking! But u will learn so much and not Realizing because they make this course so interesting and so fun! I wish I can give this place 10 stars! Jim Bridge and Erica Smith r amazing! I can't say enough on how amazing this business is! If you're considering taking a motorcycle class take this one you will not regret it!!!! I 120% recommend this company if you want to take a motorcycling class to get your certificate!! My 15 year old daughter had a amazing great time she had so much fun

Fantastic experience: My sister and I took the beginner course here and we had little riding experience. Both Jim Cook and Jim Bridges were amazing instructors and they really care about your success as a rider. We had the best weekend and I couldn't ask for better instructors as they were kind and patient with all of us, especially when we struggled with certain things. The experience was fantastic and I look forward to taking their experienced and advance courses in the future. Thank you Jim Cook and Jim Bridges for making the experience for us the absolute best one!!!! Looking forward to future classes with yall!

Negative experience: Registered for the class weeks in advance so I was secure in my spot in the training course. during this time I'm reading and seeing what is required. I see a single piece of information saying that helmets, gloves, and bikes will be provided knowing that the law requires helmets to be worn I had thought that, that was all that was needed. When purchasing the class it does say it recommends long sleeve apparel, boots, and other motorcycle rider apparel; as someone who just spend 250$ on this course I did not have the money to buy expensive motorcycle gear and because it did not say require, nor is it required by law, I went about my busy life trying to figure out college, work, and some other life situations. Moving forward in to the week I get an email stating that I have registered for the class and that (after further reading) a link to their E-Course which IS NOT REQUIRED, just helps with terminology. I finally get to the class after a hour and a half long drive and I'm told boots, jacket, and the e-course are REQUIRED! even though prior there was no mention of this. I'm asked to leave as I was "cold on my knowledge and didn't know enough for the class as well as being underprepared", so without arguing I packed up my stuff and left. I get home and call to reschedule my appointment as I was told I could by the instructor that was administering the class on 6/28/2023 - 6/29/2023. Throughout the conversation the gentlemen "Jim Cook" who owns the company is degrading and talking down to me the entire time. Telling me repeatedly that I was just "to young to read all the information" or "that I just wasn't taught to read everything". I will admit I did not read every single word on his website but I did read the important information I.E schedule, No Refunds, and that required gear will be provided. At the end of the conversation he tells me that this is all my fault and that I am responsible for the situation, I acknowledge that I am young (only 18) and I've never touched a motorcycle before, but his condescending attitude, the fact that I was told I could reschedule but never mentioned I had to pay ANOTHER 250$, and to top it all off, he attempts to bring my religion in to the matter saying that "I should pray for what's going on and God would let me let it all go". I DO NOT! recommend this company to ANYONE who doesn't have experience and even to those who do, their service is down right rude and they will do whatever it takes to make sure they can keep your money. To also add, their instructor "Jim Bridges" was awful, he was rude, condescending, and awfully sexist. Turning a female instructors joke of "I'll be on your behind about mistakes" trying to joke that she's a more strict instructor, the male instructor Jim Bridges said "oh that's because you're hormones' are imbalanced. This made it very uncomfortable overall, this is also the same instructor that hassled me about being new to riding motorcycles and told me to go home and reschedule without mentioning re-payment This same instructor Jim Bridges, kept commenting on how a student there was lying about their age because he didn't look the part, it was obviously making the younger looking man uncomfortable and when I tried to end the joking with a compliment to his looks being "going to be 80 looking 40, wish I had that issue" the instructor looked visibly annoyed that I took away his punching bag for the afternoon.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic class and wonderful instructors. The class was a mix of people and experience, from people who were very new, to old farts like me who hadn't riden in a long time and wanted a good refresher. They worked with everyone and kept it interesting and informative for all of us. Thanks guys and hope to see you out on the rode.

Fantastic experience: I had no basic knowledge of a bike whatsoever. However, with this class I now have very helpful information to get started and keep adding to what I received. Listen, try, and practice! And chew gum!! Will be returning in the future to gain even more knowledge. Definitely recommend this class.

Fantastic experience: Learning how to ride a motorcycle has been something I wanted even in my teens but I always thought it was something that wasn’t going to be possible for me since I did not grow up riding. I never learned how to drive a manual clutch in a car either, so I signed up for this course with bare knowledge. I passed and left this course feeling like I could confidently get on a motorcycle and ride on the road. In the same day as they handed me my certificate, I got onto a friends bike and showcased the skills I learned in an open parking lot. She was so surprised at how well I did she was asking me about this class and is now considering herself taking it. As long as you listen and follow directions the instructors are very patient with you and work with you on what you need to do to correct something you did wrong. Outside of the course, they also do great things for the community. Definitely recommend Appalachian Rider Education Program.

Negative experience: I truly got everything I set out to learn from this course. The course is very comprehensive and covers many of the problems I struggle with as a novice rider. I passed the course, and left feeling ready to practice what I have learned in the real world. Unfortunately I also got much more than I was looking for… The way the lead instructor conducts himself leaves much to be desired. The motorcycles (and their issues/quirks) were compared to women all weekend along with multiple other misogynistic comments. One student brought up a concern about how strange the front brake lever on her machine felt. The instructor down played the comment, made a joke out of it, and ultimately ignored her, proceeding (as a SAFETY instructor mind you) to run her through aggressive braking drills, later finding out the student had no front brake the ENTIRE DAY. One of the things we learned in this course is that a clear emotional and mental state is required to exercise good judgment on a motorcycle. Why preach that, then continue to yell at and berate your students, getting inside their heads right before putting them on the machine? Being tough because you want us to succeed is completely acceptable. However, sarcastic and vague answers to get a laugh out of the rest of the group when a student asks a serious question are unbecoming of an instructor. In a group setting where the common interest is motorcycles, where the possibility of fun and exciting conversion about motorcycles and the like is limitless- What place does politics, sexual orientation, spiritual/religious beliefs, and pure hatred toward people who love differently or believe differently than you have in this environment? We are all here for the same reason. Why not keep it peaceful and friendly? Just because it’s “your space, and you’ll say what you want, you don’t care if anyone gets upset” -Jim Cook “owner, operator, instructor” doesn’t make it the right place or time. I am looking forward to furthering my motorcycling education. Unfortunately, it looks like I will be commuting out of town for additional training. This was not for me. I was looking forward to having a great time this weekend, and this was just emotionally draining, discouraging, and unprofessional.

Negative experience: If you are a true beginner this course is not for you

Fantastic experience: Excellent experience. Very positive environment to learn. I would highly recommend. Thanks Heather and Erica. You where great.

Fantastic experience: I finished my course yesterday. It was really amazing and absolutely essential if you are planning to start riding a motorcycle and learn not only how to ride but also how to stay safe. Thank you guys for this awesome weekend!

Fantastic experience: I just finished the course today, its was an amazing experience! As someone who was completely new to riding, I learned an awesome amount of information and techniques. If you or anyone you know is interested in learning to ride, I highly recommend you look into this. Amazing instructors that were very thorough both in the book and on the asphalt!

Fantastic experience: Before this past weekend, I had never riden, nor touched a motorcycle. After this weekend, I have the confidence and skill to operate one. Jim and Heather are both very passionate about riding motorcycles, and teaching others how to ride. Thank You!

Fantastic experience: My son and I took this class March 5 weekend. I give this class a 10 out of 5. The coaching that both Martin and Jim gave my son and I were above and beyond and was a great experience. I have better confidence that the risk of an accident has reduced greatly because of their training they gave us. Safety was taken very seriously and the skills they trained us with will be extremely useful. This class taught me things I could never imagine and was glad to learn this in a training class verses learning on the road. Don’t skip this class if you plan on riding a motorcycle on the road.

Fantastic experience: Excellent! Couldn't have had a better time. Great instructors!

Fantastic experience: The Appalachian Rider Education Program was an excellent experience! If you are considering riding a motorcycle for the first time or haven't ridden in a long time and getting back into riding, this course is for you. Jim and Heather, are very knowledgeable and thorough instructors! They will explain everything in great detail and build your confidence very quickly. The information gained from this course is invaluable and I am very grateful to Jim and Heather for their time and dedication!

Fantastic experience: Oct 9,10,11 class. class and instructors were amazing. Me (41) and my daughter (17) took the class and we have had no experience with motorcycles at all. the last day is a challenge but you use the skills you learn on the first and second day. You learn to trust the basics and build on those to more complex riding. i would highly recommend this for anyone who has an interest in riding. You will leave more confident and informed.

Fantastic experience: Just took this class Oct 2-4, and I learned techniques that could potentially save my life some day. I'm a beginner, but experienced riders benefit from this class as much as I did. Jim and Heather will do their best to bring you to your full potential. You might be able to learn on your own, but you will miss out on all the valuable knowledge and life-saving techniques they will teach you. They really care, and I highly recommend taking their class!

Fantastic experience: One of the greatest decisions that I have made was to take the motorcycle safety course offered here..An excellent educational And a most enjoyable experience.. Wonderful class mates and Excellent instructors... Highly Recommend for anyone who rides not only beginners...

Fantastic experience: I had a wonderful time and gained a great deal of knowledge on riding. The instructors are awesome people very helpful and patient. I would recommend this class for anyone starting to ride or to someone that has been riding for years. The owner Jim is a very special person great God fearing man. I want to thank him for the time he made for me. I'm am truly blessed to have met this man!!!

Fantastic experience: I spend 2 days watching my son take the basic rider course. Being a seasoned rider myself, I was able to see the quality of the training. They not only tech proper technique but the also build rider confidence. I saw a vast improvement in his riding day 2 just from their muscle memory training. I highly recommend them for anyone just beginning OR for someone who is getting back into riding after a long hiatus. Another advantage is the insurance discount for taking the course.

Fantastic experience: Enjoyed the Class. The instructors where very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend the class to anyone wanting to learn too ride a motorcycle or who just wants to get refresher on motorcycle safety. Thanks. Ride Safe

Fantastic experience: Jim and Heather were awesome! They were straight to the point and cared about the safety of everyone in the class. I recommend this course for anyone who is wanting to learn the correct way to ride!

Fantastic experience: Jim and Donna are the best! Went through the class last weekend and learned so much. I consider this class to be one of the smartest things I have done. I highly recommend this course. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely amazing!! Wonderful coaches/teachers

Fantastic experience: Experienced teacher, fully hands on, and safety oriented.

Fantastic experience: Just passed this course over the weekend. I have not had any experience using a clutch or changing gears before this course, and had never ridden a dirt bike. The instructors were great, they were patient and constructive Someone in our group was having a lot of trouble and one of the instructors worked with her extra and got her confident and fixed her problems and she ended up passing. Great instructors, great course, highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: I am so glad that I took the riders program. Thay are very good people. I would recommend this class to any new Rider or experienced Rider. I learned lots! And had good fun while doing it. :) thanks again for the class.

Fantastic experience: I would recommend this class to anyone before starting to ride a motorcycle or a scooter. The instructors there are great and really believe in what they are doing.