At SmoothRider, we believe advanced riding isn't about riding faster—it's about thinking further ahead. Better observation, systematic planning and smooth machine control give every rider the time and confidence to make safer decisions. Because the safest riders aren't those with the quickest reactions—they're the ones who rarely need them.
My Story
About Andrew – Founder of SmoothRider
I’ve been riding motorcycles for over 40 years, gaining my full motorcycle licence in 1982 on a Honda XL250S. Since then, motorcycling has taken me through commuting, courier work, off-road riding in South Africa, advanced riding, rider development, motorcycle events and professional rider training.
SmoothRider was created from one simple belief:
Smooth is Fast. Smooth is Safe.
Good riding is not about speed or bravado. It comes from observation, planning, precision, machine control and making calm, well-timed decisions. When those things come together, riding becomes smoother, safer and ultimately more enjoyable.
After returning to motorcycling in 2017, I immersed myself in advanced rider development and achieved:
• IAM Advanced Rider
• RoSPA Gold
• IAM Masters – Distinction
• IAM National Observer
• IAM Masters Mentor
• DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme Trainer
These qualifications helped develop my understanding of advanced roadcraft, observation, risk management and how riders learn and improve.
Since qualifying as a DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme Trainer in 2020, and later working as a DVSA CBT Instructor, I have worked with riders at every stage of their journey — from brand-new riders developing core skills through to experienced riders looking to refine confidence, smoothness and enjoyment on the road.
Between 2021 and 2024, I worked as an outrider, ride leader and motorcycle professional supporting major manufacturers and motorcycle events including Triumph, Suzuki and Royal Enfield.
This included leading demonstration rides and rider experiences at events including:
• Motorcycle Live – NEC
• ABR Festival
• MCN Festival – Peterborough
• Copdock Motorcycle Show
Alongside leading rides, I planned routes, completed risk assessments, delivered rider briefings and ensured the safety and enjoyment of groups of up to eight riders at a time.
My wider motorcycle experience has also included:
• Honda Rider Assessor – evaluating rider standards on Honda’s motorcycle staff scheme
• Bike Magazine Reader Bike of the Year test panel
• Motorcycle Marshal for British Triathlon and Ironman events (2019–2022)
• Volunteer Blood Biker (2019–2021)
These experiences placed me in environments requiring high levels of observation, planning, rider management and safe decision-making under pressure.
Today, SmoothRider focuses on helping riders continue developing long after passing their test.
Whether you are:
• Newly qualified and looking to build confidence
• Returning to riding after time away
• Moving onto a larger or more powerful bike
• Looking to improve cornering, planning and roadcraft
• Wanting to ride more smoothly and enjoy your bike more
My aim is simple:
To help you become a smoother, safer and more confident motorcyclist.
Every session is bespoke and tailored to the individual rider. No rigid courses, no pass or fail — just practical mentoring designed around what you want to achieve.
Motorcycling is a lifelong learning journey.
SmoothRider exists to help you enjoy that journey.