Upstate Rider Training – Motorcycle Safety Foundation Courses
Upstate Rider Training provides awesome rider training for all riders in South Carolina! We’ve had riders from the 4 corners of SC including Charleston, Beaufort, Columbia, Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson and many more SC cities!
Services Offered:
- Motorcycle Safety Training courses:
- Beginner Rider Training BRC (includes DMV License testing)
- Experienced Rider Training BRC2 (includes DMV testing and skill practice)
- DMV Skills Testing
- DMV Permit Testing
- 8-Hour Defensive Driving Course (includes DMV points reduction)
- 4-Hour Defensive Driving Course (insurance discount available)
Registration process information:
Please select the date you wish to attend and complete the registration form. Your receipt will show the date(s) and time(s) of the class. You will receive an email 30 days prior to your class with an eCourse link to allow you to begin your pre-work. IMPORTANT: We can train riders from all 50 states, but we can only complete the DMV test with riders from South Carolina for motorcycle endorsement. Please see the DMV FAQ page for other states that will accept our completion card for MC endorsement.
If you have questions, please call or text (864) 881-2031 or UpstateRiderTraining@Gmail.com
Come train with the best coaches in SC: Now with 2 locations in Upstate South Carolina!
GREENVILLE
WE HAVE SPACE AT OUR NEW GREENVILLE TECH RANGE! IF YOU ARE HAVING TROUBLE REGISTERING, PLEASE CALL ME FOR HELP AT (864) 881-2031
Greenville location – URT @ Greenville Tech
Greenville Technical College
506 S. Pleasantburg Drive
Greenville, SC 29607
Nursing Sciences Building 117, Room 239
IMPORTANT – Please know that the Greenville Technical College site is not optimized for mobile phones, you’ll have a better registration experience from a desktop computer. If you need to use a mobile phone, please click the link below to watch the step by step instructions.
If you have questions about the registration process call: (864) 250-8800. If you have questions about the training program please call: (864) 881-2031
1 on 1 Private lesson – 4 hours – Weekdays and evenings available – 1 day $450.00 per day – Call to Select a date that works for you.
One on One Courses are designed to allow a new rider to build confidence on the motorcycle and practice basic skills prior to attending a 2-day learn to ride course. We provide the motorcycle! In the one on one course we focus on Clutch control, shifting and overall motorcycle control over a 4 hour period. Riders will then choose a date to attend the 2 day learn to ride course.
Hands down the best course I've ever taken. Russ and Ed were absolutely amazing. So patient and encouraging. I had never riden before and learned so much. There were other riders in my class who had a lot of experience and they said the same thing. Plus we had FUN! Lots of laughs and great energy. THANK YOU URT!
The weekend was cold, but everyone's warm hearts and smiles made it so much fun that we forgot how cold it was. Thank you to Russ, Bill and my girl Tara for pushing this old girl to do her very best. I highly recommend this class to everyone who rides or wants to learn to ride. It's well worth the price. You won't regret it.
Great Class! Russ and the instructors are there to teach you how to ride the right way and be safe. I still have alot of learning/practice to do on becoming a better motorcycle driver. But Russ and his team have provided a great foundation of riding skills to get me off on the right track. I would HIGHLY recommend this class to anyone!
Russ was a wonderful instructor! He explained everything so well, taking me from a zero experience to mastery of some basic skills during our private lesson time together. Highly recommend!
I took part in Upstate Rider Training's Nov 15 - 16 Basic Course. Russel, Chuck & Perry, as instructors/coaches, were extremely knowledgeable as well as passionate about safe riding. Their instructions and expectations were clearly communicated to the group before as well as during each riding exercise.
Once the two-day training course ended, additional training courses were provided ( their approach is to always advocate learning no matter what level of riding you have accomplished ) which says a lot about their coaching style & passion!
I highly recommend Upstate Rider Training as your go-to source for any level of bike riding training!
Upstate Rider Training: AAA+++
Once the two-day training course ended, additional training courses were provided ( their approach is to always advocate learning no matter what level of riding you have accomplished ) which says a lot about their coaching style & passion!
I highly recommend Upstate Rider Training as your go-to source for any level of bike riding training!
Upstate Rider Training: AAA+++
Russ and bill both was very knowledgeable of riding motorcycles in a safe manner and everyday skills. Also they would see things that the riders could improve on and they would point it out and tell us how to improve and what needed to be done to accomplish the task. Very good class and I learned a lot for my future rides
Came into this with anxiety from a previous motorcycle wreck weeks prior. Taking this course gave me my confidence back! A group training course and yet Russ and Jim did such a great job working with everyone individually. By the end of it we all passed! If you want to learn, check em out!
Just completed the one day Basic Rider License Waiver course and to say the least it was excellent. Russ and Bill were exceptional. Professional, knowledgeable, patient and helpful. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to improve their riding skills and increase their knowledge. Thanks guys. Reed F.
Russ took our class over 2 beginners with no experience 3 wheeler class to being comfortable with basics. I learn how to stay on and safe. Feel more confident and plan to take the 2 wheel class shortly
Russ and Chuck were Friendly and very helpful (especially for rookie riders but even experienced can benefit ) with one on one instruction provided even in a group setting. Their combined experience is effectively communicated to correct and/or tweak your current skills and abilities to take you to the next level. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to improve their abilities.
Upstate rider training was a 100% first class experience for my son and I who took their beginner riders coarse .
From the moment we arrived we were greeted with friendly , informative , and VERY knowledgeable staff . Russ and Alex both did everything possible to assure we were taught the things we needed to know to ride smarter , more informed and most importantly SAFELY ! Taking this coarse with my 17 year old son I was very pleased with how they worked with him , guided him and stressed SAFETY as the top over all priority .
If you are looking to learn motorcycle safety / basic riding skills , get your license certification , or just brush up on any of things . I could not imagine a better experience with professionals than that at upstate rider training !! THANK YOU Russ and Alex for a fantastic weekend and riding experience ! See ya again soon !!
From the moment we arrived we were greeted with friendly , informative , and VERY knowledgeable staff . Russ and Alex both did everything possible to assure we were taught the things we needed to know to ride smarter , more informed and most importantly SAFELY ! Taking this coarse with my 17 year old son I was very pleased with how they worked with him , guided him and stressed SAFETY as the top over all priority .
If you are looking to learn motorcycle safety / basic riding skills , get your license certification , or just brush up on any of things . I could not imagine a better experience with professionals than that at upstate rider training !! THANK YOU Russ and Alex for a fantastic weekend and riding experience ! See ya again soon !!
Highly recommend taking an MSF course to improve your riding skills. Russ and Drew did an excellent job of explaining the basics of riding and different techniques to improve basic skills. They were both very patient with all of the riders and their passion for the course and for riding showed.
HIGHLY recommend taking this course whether you’re a new rider or experienced. The coaches Bill and Tara were AWESOME and very detailed oriented in their instruction. I will be taking another course with Upstate Rider Training. Thank you all!
I had a great experience at Upstate Riding Academy! Russ and Bill were fantastic instructors—super knowledgeable, patient, and made the whole process both fun and educational. They took the time to make sure everyone felt comfortable and confident on the bikes, no matter their experience level. The course was well-structured, safety-focused, and gave me the skills I need to ride with confidence. Highly recommend this academy if you're looking to get into motorcycling or just want to sharpen your skills. Thanks again to Russ and Bill for making it such a positive experience.
Taking the Basic Rider course with Russ and Tara gave me a ton more confidence in my riding ability. It cannot be stated enough that a strong foundation in the basics of motorcycle riding will give a rider the tools necessary to be a safe and competent rider.
Thanks again Russ and Tara!
Thanks again Russ and Tara!
Russ and his team were fantastic from start to finish. They made all aspects fun, were super encouraging to everyone regardless of skill level, and have clearly put thought and effort into their program/product.
The bikes were in great shape and fun to ride. The perfect machines to sharpen skills and learn on. If you’re looking for a course to learn and/or improve your riding ability, I believe this is the spot you want to do it! I drove up from Charleston for the class and felt like I got my money and times worth and then some. Don’t hesitate to book your spot, you won’t regret it.
The bikes were in great shape and fun to ride. The perfect machines to sharpen skills and learn on. If you’re looking for a course to learn and/or improve your riding ability, I believe this is the spot you want to do it! I drove up from Charleston for the class and felt like I got my money and times worth and then some. Don’t hesitate to book your spot, you won’t regret it.
I was a first time motorcycle rider taking the 2 day BRC course and it was awesome! Russ and Bill were super cool, kind and encouraging. It’s a fun, stress-free and very professional environment. High marks for emphasizing safety and importance of practicing the skills learned in this course. Will definitely be going back for the more advanced half day course. Worth every penny!
If you’re considering getting into motorcycling and want a training experience that’s equal parts professional, engaging, and fun—Upstate Rider Training is the place to start.
From the moment I arrived, it was clear that Russ and Bill are deeply passionate about what they do. That passion translates into their teaching style, which is not only informative but also incredibly encouraging. Whether you’re brand new to riding or just brushing up on the basics, you’ll feel supported the entire way through.
The structure of the Basic Rider Course is seamless. Each segment builds on the last, gradually increasing your confidence and skill level without ever feeling overwhelming. The balance between classroom instruction and hands-on riding is well thought out, and everything is paced just right. You’re never rushed, but you’re also never left waiting around or wondering what’s next.
One of the standout features of the course is the motorcycles provided. They’re café racer-style bikes, and they’re an ideal size and style for learning the fundamentals. Lightweight, responsive, and easy to maneuver—they give you a real feel for the road while still being beginner-friendly. It’s clear a lot of thought went into selecting the right bikes for the job.
Above all, the professionalism at Upstate Rider Training is top-notch. Russ and Bill clearly take pride in creating a safe, respectful, and effective learning environment. You feel like you’re learning from people who care about both your success and your safety.
I left the class feeling not only more skilled, but also more excited about continuing my journey in riding. I’m already looking forward to signing up for additional classes to build on what I’ve learned.
Whether you’re riding for the first time or getting back in the saddle after a break, I couldn’t recommend Upstate Rider Training more highly.
From the moment I arrived, it was clear that Russ and Bill are deeply passionate about what they do. That passion translates into their teaching style, which is not only informative but also incredibly encouraging. Whether you’re brand new to riding or just brushing up on the basics, you’ll feel supported the entire way through.
The structure of the Basic Rider Course is seamless. Each segment builds on the last, gradually increasing your confidence and skill level without ever feeling overwhelming. The balance between classroom instruction and hands-on riding is well thought out, and everything is paced just right. You’re never rushed, but you’re also never left waiting around or wondering what’s next.
One of the standout features of the course is the motorcycles provided. They’re café racer-style bikes, and they’re an ideal size and style for learning the fundamentals. Lightweight, responsive, and easy to maneuver—they give you a real feel for the road while still being beginner-friendly. It’s clear a lot of thought went into selecting the right bikes for the job.
Above all, the professionalism at Upstate Rider Training is top-notch. Russ and Bill clearly take pride in creating a safe, respectful, and effective learning environment. You feel like you’re learning from people who care about both your success and your safety.
I left the class feeling not only more skilled, but also more excited about continuing my journey in riding. I’m already looking forward to signing up for additional classes to build on what I’ve learned.
Whether you’re riding for the first time or getting back in the saddle after a break, I couldn’t recommend Upstate Rider Training more highly.
I have been riding for a few years and took a break because I had kids. I took the course to get back into riding along with getting better at moving at a slower pace. This course was fantastic. Minimum classroom. Majority hands on. The instructors know how to take you out of your comfort zone confidently to work on the things you wouldnt do on your own. They help you pass all evaluations and tests. I can't say enough good things. It was definitely worth every penny.
I cannot tell you how beneficial this course was! As a first time rider I heard of Upstate Rider Training through Travis at D2 powersports of spartanburg when i was picking up a helmet and I'm so glad I decided to take the basic rider course. As a first time rider I learned so much in just 2 days with the help of Russ and Bill which are amazing coaches huge thanks to those guys for teaching me how to become a great rider! They take the time to go through every exercise, help develop good riding habits and understanding the reasons of each technique. This course helps build the foundation of motorcycle riding. If your planning on learning how to ride please take this course you will gain knowledge, gain confidence and learn to become a great rider. Thanks again Russ and Bill!
I loved every bit of the beginner safety course that I just took! I have said multiple times throughout (and after) my experience that it was exactly what I needed to feel more comfortable (and safe!) operating a motorcycle.
The coaches, Russ and Bill, were just fabulous.. they gave us feedback every step of the way on what we were doing well and how we could improve. They were enthusiastic, supportive, informative, and just a wealth of knowledge the entire time. I could go on and on, but to sum it up, I would absolutely recommend this course (or any of their other courses!) to anyone and everyone who has an interest in riding. 10/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The coaches, Russ and Bill, were just fabulous.. they gave us feedback every step of the way on what we were doing well and how we could improve. They were enthusiastic, supportive, informative, and just a wealth of knowledge the entire time. I could go on and on, but to sum it up, I would absolutely recommend this course (or any of their other courses!) to anyone and everyone who has an interest in riding. 10/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I just completed the Basic Rider Course and this class is an absolute no-brainer for all new riders. And even experienced riders could benefit from a skills and safety refresher. Russ is an excellent instructor (and the coaching assistant he had with him, Tara, was also excellent). The class is very well-structured, well-paced, and organized (oh, and Russ is very punctual, which I greatly appreciated). We covered so much ground in just two days, but it didn't feel overwhelming because of how well each new piece builds on the previous pieces. I would highly recommend this class to any level of rider, and I'm looking forward to coming back for the more advanced class.
As someone who had never been on a motorcycle before, Russ and Tara did an incredible job of making this training a very safe and exciting learning experience. Even though we were a group of 6, I still received a lot of 1:1 advice and even got to ask question during and after our sessions. I cannot thank both of them enough for such a positive experience. If you have any interest in learning how to ride or improving your skills, this is the place to go!
Excellent rider courses! I always learn something new and the courses provide a great refresher for seasoned riders. Russ and Bill are great instructors and explain the riding techniques well.
Russ was a PHENOMENAL teacher & an all around nice guy! I went in feeling really nervous but within the first day I felt so much more confident. I wasn’t afraid to ask questions. It was also really nice taking the group class to be able to interact with everyone else . I really cannot recommend this class enough. I left with an endorsement & felt x1000 times more knowledgeable & SAFE!
This class is so fun and well worth your time and money! Russ and Tara were incredible teachers, I look forward to taking more classes.
Russ was a phenomenal coach and made sure each of us were taken care of in terms of riding and our safety! I highly recommend anyone looking to learn to ride or further their skill, take one of his classes. I couldn’t have chosen a better instructor!
I attended the 3 wheel training class not knowing anything about riding. Russ was an amazing instructor who provided all the basics for riding. He was very encouraging and patient and made learning fun. Upon completing the class I now feel equipped to begin my biking journey! I would recommend everyone attend his class even if you already ride.
Completed my msf course thanks so much for the coaches they were amazing highly recommend them if you want to start riding a bike!
I suggest Upstate Rider Training to anyone who wants to grow as a rider. Bill and Chuck were great coaches. I will be back in 6 months or
3,000 miles.
3,000 miles.
I completed the three wheel rider course yesterday and it was great. Russ and Bill were our trainers, and they couldn't have done a better job. We started with baby steps and built up to more advanced skills as the course progressed. Before each exercise, Russ or Bill would explain what we were getting ready to do, then the other one would ride the course and demonstrate it so we could see in advance what we were preparing to do. That was perfect. There were only 3 students in my group, so we got a lot of personal attention and positive coaching. I've always wanted to ride a CanAm and this was the perfect introduction. I now have the confidence to go to the next level. Great job guys!
Great instructors. Good content for new or seasoned riders. You will learn something new. 👍
Russ was the best instructor I have had, not only is he patient but also has the concern to make sure you are ready to ride with confidence, he is honest and will let you know if you are ready to ride after his class, if you pass he will shack your hand and congradulate you if you fail he will tell you its not big deal we can try again. Thanks to him I was able to pass and get my license and was told you keep practicing. I took it ask them more you practice the better you get. Thank you so much Russ doing a wonderful job.
I enjoyed the two day MSF course on 3WMC with Upstate Rider Training. Russ was mindful of my skill level and gave me the necessary tools I need to be self-aware of my strengths and opportunities. 3WMC riding is Seriously Fun! Thanks Russ. Please add/create a Spyder class also. I plan on taking more classes with Upstate Rider Training in the future.
I took the 3 wheel course with Russ and it really was fun. The two day course was a great balance of range time and classroom time that prep you for safe riding. Russ was patient and always ready to answer any questions we had. If you’re thinking about getting into riding or want to brush up your skills, you want this guy as your instructor.
As a motorcycle MSF RiderCoach, I was curious to experience riding three wheels to see what all the excitement was about. Taking the two-day MSF Three Wheel course for $99 through Upstate Rider Training was much cheaper than renting a Spyder for a day. Also, I wanted to learn how to handle it “the right way”.
I was very impressed with the quality of training as well as the three wheel experience itself. Russ is very pleasant, professional and provided clear instruction and demos for us to follow. There was clear communication throughout the whole sign up process through to the “next steps” at the end of the course.
I would highly recommend Russ and Upstate Rider Training to anyone looking to see what the three wheel experience is all about, whether you’re looking to go from two wheels to three, have never driven anything less than four wheels, or are just looking for a fun two day experience.
I was very impressed with the quality of training as well as the three wheel experience itself. Russ is very pleasant, professional and provided clear instruction and demos for us to follow. There was clear communication throughout the whole sign up process through to the “next steps” at the end of the course.
I would highly recommend Russ and Upstate Rider Training to anyone looking to see what the three wheel experience is all about, whether you’re looking to go from two wheels to three, have never driven anything less than four wheels, or are just looking for a fun two day experience.
Russ and Bill gave me the confidence to safely extend my comfort zone of riding and go, literally, on the other side of the RR tracks. Without their expert input and confidence boosting training, with an emphasis on always learning, I'd still be stuck on the Boiling Springs side of Inman. Will definitely be taking the ADV and Experienced classes and probably in a year or two the basic class again to reinforce my knowledge of safe motorcycling.
Russ and his team mentored me and the other riders throughout the course to help us sharpen our skills and gave us a list of things we can continue to work on. I came in as a returning rider with a 15 year break and got up to speed and took the DMV test during the one day returning rider course. I look forward to taking additional courses in the future!!
Just back from adventure motorcycle training with Russ and J.P. They were both very skilled, knowledgeable,and patient. The training class was a blast and I enjoyed it very much! Plan on attending more of their classes in the future. It was great to learn what my bike will do.
I was a little timid getting on a bike going into this class, but it helped to much! The teacher, Mr Russel, was very patient with me even when I stalled a million times. It was fun and I got my license waiver after passing. 10/10 recommend
I had a great experience on the basic rider training course. The owner, Russ, is passionate about motorcycle safety and his enthusiasm makes the course really engaging. I learned some useful skills and feel I am a safer rider because of it. I highly recommend this course to new riders and anyone looking to get their motorcycle drivers license.
I had an excellent time with Russ being my instructor! He’s very knowledgeable. He’s very nice and calm. Always gives you positive encouragement and positive criticism! All around a very positive experience! Thanks a lot, Russ!
Great instructor, great school. Had an awesome time. Fundamentals are key! Feel much safer after Mr. Russ instruction! Great deal of help.
I thought I knew a fair about riding a motorcycle. Russ was excellent at explaining everything we went through both in the class room setting and out on the range. I learned a lot more than I thought I would about riding and basic road skills. I gained a ton more confidence on a motorcycle and learned better handling skills of the motorcycle while I was there. The classes were very informative and went a pace that was conducive for the whole class. I feel a lot better about getting out on the road on a motorcycle now.
Fantastic training!! Enjoyed the time and learned lots. Thank you Russ for priceless knowledge and safety instruction, already got my license and ready to go. Could not be easier!
Hats off to Upstate Rider Training team. Each practice is purposely designed to address every aspect of riding and riding safety. I can not recommend more for anyone that wants to learn how to ride or to establish good riding habits.
It was a fun experience to connect with Russ and other riders.
It was a fun experience to connect with Russ and other riders.
This was an amazing class! I thought of myself as an intermediate rider until this morning. By lunch, I knew what that was and was quickly approaching that level. Russ is a fantastic instructor that provided information in a clear concise manner. His enthusiasm for providing knowledge and his excitement at seeing you “get it” makes this a great class. He was able to instill confidence without making one cocky. This is a class that I will be taking again as a refresher. I can’t say enough great things about this class. Make sure you bring sunscreen and a hat is also suggested.
Took the BRC2 class today. Russ is a great instructor and I came away with much more knowledge than I started with. I thought I was a pretty good rider, but it is quite humbling to take a professionally taught class to understand that was not the case. Definitely worth the time and effort to attend one of their classes - It could mean the difference between life and death! Sign up today!
Just finished the advanced class. Well worth it. With experience comes bad habits and complacent thinking... Hopefully put a stop to some of that today. Progressive Insurance gave me a discount for taking the class and it carries for three years.
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