Suzuki has announced the launch of a new off-road training centre in partnership with SR75 Suzuki, the off-road racing team run by Geoff Walker who has more than 30 years’ experience in off-road racing and rider tuition. The initiative forms part of Suzuki’s wider strategy to support rider development and strengthen engagement with its adventure and off-road motorcycle range.
The SR75 Suzuki Off-Road Experience Centre will provide training for riders of all abilities, supported by a dedicated fleet of Suzuki machines including the V-Strom 800DE and 1050DE, and the smaller DR-Z4S, allowing participants to experience the brand’s latest off-road and adventure products in a controlled training environment.
Based near Merthyr Tydfil, close to the Monster Mountain motocross track, the centre has access to more than 300 acres of mixed terrain. This includes wide shale fire roads and more technical single-track trails, enabling instructors to tailor sessions to rider experience. Training will cover core off-road skills such as body positioning, throttle and brake control, as well as more advanced techniques for challenging terrain.
A key focus of the centre is its small-group approach. Rider numbers will be limited to a maximum ratio of three riders per instructor, with no more than six riders per group, ensuring a high level of individual attention throughout the day.
Commenting on the launch, Suzuki GB Motorcycle marketing manager Jak Tyrrell said: “We’re pleased to be launching a new Suzuki off-road training school, and we’re delighted to be doing so in conjunction with Geoff Walker and the SR75 team. There aren’t many people in the off-road world with the same level of experience in rider tuition, and, in addition to that experience, he also brings an incredible amount of care, dedication, and professionalism to the centre. It’s an exciting time, and we can’t wait to see riders of all levels of ability learning to ride with more confidence off-road on Suzuki products next year.”
Geoff Walker added: “I have a long association with the Suzuki brand, formed initially in the world of motocross and supercross racing, but that’s grown over the years, and we’ve since done a lot of work with the V-Strom range, including some rallies, and the launch of this school felt like a natural next step. As well as working for and running my own race team for more than 30 years, I have a background in riding instruction; I don’t think there are many feelings as good as helping people learn and develop their riding skills. With the DR-Z4S through to the 800DE and 1050DE V-Stroms, there’s a bike for everyone’s level of ability, and I’m looking forward to getting started.”
Prices for a full day of instruction start at £300 per rider, including motorcycle hire, fuel, maintenance and refreshments. Further information and booking details are available via the SR75 Suzuki Off-Road Experience Centre website; www.sr75offroad.co.uk.