Girls only off-road

It's not only men that get a kick out of riding motorcycles off-road. Plenty of women want the chance to take their bike skills off-road and improve their overall riding ability.

After a successful trial of a women's only course this year, BMW's Chief Instructor Simon Pavey has decided to run an exclusive women's only Off-Road Skills course on 23-24 April 2006.

The BMW Off-Road School employs some of Britain's finest instructors who teach basic and advanced off-road riding skills at the magnificent 4,000-acre Walters Arena Enduro Park.

The park's diverse selection of trails and terrain can challenge every level of riding ability and experience, and at the end of the course, participants achieve a degree of capability they never thought would have been possible.

"I thoroughly enjoyed the course," said Linda Bunting, who participated on the last women's only course. "All of the instructors are great and so supportive. Thank you for the experience and I would recommend it to anyone."

"It's a really great course," explained Rebecca Miller. "I was anxious at times, but all of the instructors inspired confidence. I'm not really into girls only events, but I really enjoyed this one."

Every year BMW's Off-Road Skills instructors teach over 600 people from complete beginners to advanced off-road riders. Participants are taught on BMW F650 GS or F650 GS Dakar motorcycles, or there is the option of R1200 GS machines for more confident riders.

During the two-day course, participants learn the basic techniques of off-road riding. These skills include: how to lift, balance and manoeuvre a motorcycle in awkward situations; slow-speed control; balance; throttle and clutch control; ascending and descending hills safely and confidently; and riding through deep water.

BMW Off-Road Skills courses (levels one and two) cost £360 for participants on F650 GS or F650 GS Dakar machines. For participants, wishing to ride a R1200 GS, the courses cost £395. This price includes two days instruction, bike hire, third party insurance, fuel, meals, refreshments, and a certificate of course completion. Accommodation or evening drinks are not included in the above prices.

A World of BMW gift voucher makes a great Christmas or birthday present for any motorcycling enthusiast. They are available for purchase using the contact details below and can be redeemed in full or as part payment towards any World of BMW activity.

For more information or to reserve a place on one of the courses, call the World of BMW on 08000 131 282, or +44 1652 680 060 if outside the UK. Alternatively, fax 01652 680 070, or email bmw@worldofbmw.com