Are Any Rider Training Courses Available?

Q: I will briefly introduce myself. I am forty *mumble* and am about to get my Bandit 600. It is about 20 years since I owned a bike, always wanted one but money and families came first. Anyway I have now stumped the readies and put the deposit on this. I wondered if there are any suitable training courses for someone returning to biking after a large gap. Ideally something locally based. I am in Rochdale ( Nr Manchester) for my sins. I rode a lot when younger but feel that a refresher would not go amiss.

A:Could I suggest that you look at off road riding courses? I went to the Yamaha Off Road Riding Experiance in Llansomethingorother in Powys, Mid Wales. It worked wonders for my road riding as in feeling much more confident etc. Otherwise try one of the Police training courses - details are on their website - www.bikesafe.co.uk/Bikesafe/bikesafe2000.htm - no idea if its any good, but I was planning to have a go soon as it seems to be the best value!