Motorcyclists across the Highlands and Islands are sharpening their skills with a course that’s turning ordinary Sundays into life-saving experiences.
Rider Refinement is back for 2025 with a powerful message — refine your skills, ride responsibly, and reduce collisions.
The first session of the year has already rolled out successfully.
Run by experienced Police Scotland motorcyclists and supported by IAM RoadSmart observers, the course delivers expert guidance that’s both practical and confidence-boosting.
It’s a one-day advanced motorcycle skills course with sessions available from April to October.
The course is open to all riders — whether you’re newly qualified or a seasoned biker with miles behind you.
It doesn’t matter what you ride, be it a sports bike, cruiser, or tourer — if you’re on two wheels, you’re welcome.
Sessions in the Highlands and Islands include dates in Dingwall, Orkney, and Shetland.
This course teaches you what you should already know — but probably don’t notice.
It highlights the obvious, the overlooked, and the potentially dangerous habits we all fall into.
Participants leave the day with sharper awareness, improved technique, and a refreshed mindset.
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Rider’s report feeling safer, more confident, and far more in control after the course.
One described it as a “shortcut to massive improvements.”
Another said it completely “changed the way I ride.”
Martin Nicolson, 18 months into riding, said it showed him “a different side of the bike.”
Callum Fraser, just nine months in, now has “more confidence on the bike” and feels “more observant on the road.”
There’s a common thread from all participants — everyone says they’re better for it.
More confidence when overtaking.
Better observation and hazard awareness.
Understanding the ‘why’ behind the techniques.
Learning how to ride properly and enjoy the machine more.
Riders highlighted the quality of instruction from both the police motorcyclists and the IAM observers.
Instructors like Dougie Scott, John Mclauchlan, and Robbie Stewart are known for their calm approach, clear advice, and confidence-building coaching.
For many, the course is an eye-opener and a gateway to further advanced training.
It’s not about speed — it’s about control, clarity, and confidence.
It’s a great day out with a serious purpose.
Fun, educational, and potentially lifesaving.
Whether you’re hitting the road daily or only on weekends, investing in your safety is always worth it.
Book your place and take the ride that might just change everything.
Let’s look out for each other and keep the joy in riding.
