This is the first article in a series of articles that will allow you to discover a profession still little known by the general public, but which is increasingly looking to recruit. He’s a motorcycle instructor. Through their passion, motorcycle instructors share their knowledge and experience with those who share their passion for the motorcycle.
Having been a motorcycle instructor myself for three years, I want to show you this beautiful job that has allowed me to surpass myself in life. I can tell you that with all these experienced instructors, I have been able to benefit every day from wonderful advice that allows me today to drive my bike in a much safer way. It is probably thanks to several of my fellow instructors that I can now go on a trip alone with great confidence. I won’t hide the fact that I loved sharing my experience with students. These unique moments are something that I miss. I always feel a sense of pride every time a former student reminds me that it was I who helped them to realize their dream!
Patrick Sanchez, an exceptional motorcycle instructor
I want to launch this series with the dean of the place. He is one of the oldest motorcycle instructors at Tecnic. Of great reputation, I present to you Patrick Sanchez. This exceptional man has left a deep mark on all the students who have had the chance to take one or more classes with him.
His commitment to his colleagues, students, and employer gives him a reassuring personality. This is THE person to turn to when you have a question or need a mentor. He works in harmony with a large group of people, regardless of their background and abilities. And, in addition, he plays a positive leadership role within the team.
Patrick’s Rich Experience
He was first a personal healthcare attendant (beneficiary attendant), then a ski instructor, and finally a bodybuilding teacher. He only started training for motorcycle riding in 2004. It’s been over 20 years now! For five years he was a field coach.
Very proud of his 74 years of age, he tells me that he has been a bodybuilder in the past. He even won a contest in the 180 lb and under category in 1979. When he told me about this great adventure, I understood why he stood out both physically and psychologically. It’s just that he has kept this beautiful lifestyle all along.
Patrick is passionate about motorcycling, skiing, and dog competitions. He also loves to tinker with beautiful projects around the house with his table saw.
With all this life experience, I asked him what phrase he liked to keep in mind to help himself in life. This is what he said:
First, “don’t forget to love yourself! ” Second, “if you have a problem, you can find the solution. ” Then, finally, “why am I going through this? There must be a reason.”
Patrick Sanchez’s Advice for Safe Motorcycle Driving
I then asked Patrick if he had any tips to share for safe riding on a motorcycle. He started with what he thinks is the most important one: looking far ahead. It contributes strongly towards good driving habits. This advice is the one you should really remember. I have been repeating it to my students so much!
It all starts with vision; the brain coordinates what the eyes are capturing. I like this phrase that Patrick said to me, which we constantly tell our students :
“You drive in the direction where you look! So if you look at a hole on the ground, there’s a good chance that you’ll end up in that hole. It’s not your arms that will make you turn, but your eyes and where they land. ”
He then adds a comforting phrase: The information your eyes provide is recorded by your brain. And your brain says, “trust me!”
Patrick Sanchez’s Motorcycle: A Thoughtful Choice
Patrick has owned five or six motorcycles, including a Kawasaki ZX-6. He currently rides a 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000. I’m not surprised that Patrick chose this model. This bike is well appreciated by motorcyclists with its beautiful, rather “sporty” look. We’re talking about a bike designed for the road that is also capable of venturing out on the trails. While driving it, one can easily feel as if they were on an adventurous motorcycle. Not to mention that the height of the Versys 1000 is very accessible for many motorcyclists, compared to other models often very high. This bike is good for everything: day-to-day travels, urban driving, and even long weekend getaways off the beaten path. The Versys 1000 is comfortable in all situations. This Kawasaki appeals to fans of this type of motorcycle.
Patrick dreams of travelling the famous Route 66 and visiting Southern USA with his beautiful Kawasaki. But in the meantime, he enjoys his favourite rides in Lachute, Morin-Heights, Route 158, and the highway. He also enjoys travelling these routes with his students during his classes. He has indeed visited Vermont and the U.S., from which he keeps wonderful memories.
Why does Patrick Sanchez Enjoy Being a Motorcycle Instructor?
I was curious about what motivated Patrick to pursue his career as a motorcycle instructor, so I asked him. First, being outside nearly every day and moving around giving outdoor training are great ways to stay physically healthy. He likes to be fit and, of course, healthy. He teaches and shares what he knows. Patrick finds the interactions with students very enjoyable and loves his fellow instructors. All this contributes to a great living environment.
Patrick is retired from his previous job. So, he works in the summer, specifically between April and October since that’s when classes are held. Then he takes the winter off. The flexibility of his work schedule is very interesting for him.
He then adds that, like all instructors, he appreciates the sweaters, caps and coats provided by his employer. Not to mention access to quality motorcycles in good condition for his classes. This is very helpful to make sure the students who choose this driving school are safe. This is also a point that I found attractive for beginner motorcyclists. In addition, the instructors benefit from a comfortable motorcycle adapted to their reality. Since they can do several classes in one day, this is a notable advantage. Finally, Patrick mentioned training planned for the whole team to maintain a good level of constant pedagogy, essential for safety. As you can see, there are many interesting points to choose this very rewarding work.
Motorcycle Instructor: A Career That Deserves to Be Known
To find your dream job, you must sometimes be able to choose a path that strays from “traditional” professions and orient yourself towards these trades still unknown to the general public.
If you too are passionate about motorcycles, I hope that this meeting with an experienced instructor will convince you to make this beautiful step to surpass yourself. At the very least, I hope this article will allow you to enjoy your next motorcycle instructor (hihi)!
Maybe you could even consider becoming a motorcycle instructor yourself! Even after many years of experience riding a motorcycle, it is always possible to learn new things. That’s what happened to me when I became a motorcycle instructor.
