If you’re serious about adventure riding, technical off-road skills are just as important as your bike setup or route planning. Whether you’re eyeing the next BDR route or prepping for international terrain, professional training is the fastest way to boost confidence and performance.

This guide highlights the 10 best off-road motorcycle training programs in the U.S., carefully selected for intermediate and advanced riders. These aren’t beginner courses; they’re built for experienced ADV and dual-sport riders on midweight and full-size adventure bikes (think GS, Ténéré, Africa Twin, 890 ADV). Each program offers expert instruction, real-world terrain, and a unique learning environment across different regions of the country.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. You are responsible for vetting any course for fit, safety, and availability. We are not liable for injuries, travel disruptions, or financial loss. Ride smart—do your own research before signing up.

1. RawHyde Adventures – California & Colorado

rawhyde-offroad.com
One of the most trusted names in the ADV community, RawHyde is a BMW-certified training partner with immersive off-road programs tailored to large adventure motorcycles. They operate two purpose-built training centers in California and Colorado, offering multi-day ADV courses, terrain parks, and supported expeditions. If you’re looking for professional coaching with top-tier facilities, RawHyde delivers.

2. West38Moto – Colorado, Utah, New Mexico

west38moto.com
West38Moto offers small-group ADV training and guided adventure rides across the American West. Known for their Level 1–3 curriculum, they emphasize confidence, body position, and real-world application. Perfect for riders transitioning from dirt basics to technical trail riding on big bikes, especially in rocky or variable terrain.

3. Bill Dragoo Adventure Rider Training (D.A.R.T.) – Oklahoma + Touring

billdragoo.com
Led by Dakar veteran and BMW-certified instructor Bill Dragoo, D.A.R.T. specializes in off-road skills for heavy adventure motorcycles. Training includes traction control, hill climbs, braking technique, and obstacle negotiation—all taught with an emphasis on rider balance and terrain reading. Great for ADV riders looking to elevate their skills in a supportive but challenging environment.

4. Chris Birch “Say No to Slow” Clinics – Touring: VA, OH, CA + more

saynotoslow.nz/
Enduro legend Chris Birch offers high-intensity ADV clinics for riders ready to push their limits. His U.S. tour stops often include Virginia, Ohio, and California. With a laser focus on balance, flow, and throttle control, these clinics are ideal for experienced riders seeking deeper mastery of technical terrain. Small group sizes mean maximum one-on-one feedback.

5. Bret Tkacs ADV Training Camps – Nationwide

brettkacs.com
Bret Tkacs is one of the most recognizable names in ADV education. His training style is analytical, with a focus on body mechanics, terrain strategy, and mental conditioning. The ADV Camps are designed to challenge assumptions, eliminate bad habits, and fine-tune control—all through scenario-based drills that mimic real-world adventure riding.

6. SoCal Off-Road Motorcycle Training – San Diego, CA

socaloffroadschool.com
For riders in Southern California, SoCal Off-Road offers structured training led by veteran coach Kevin Bailey. Their programs cover key skills like off-road braking, weight transfer, clutch control, and line selection. With private and group classes available, it’s an excellent choice for West Coast riders looking to refine their off-road technique year-round.

7. BMW MOA Rider Academy – South Carolina & National Rallies

bmwperformancecenter.com
BMW’s official Rider Academy offers off-road training through the Performance Center in South Carolina and at MOA rallies. Taught by certified instructors, their courses focus on controlled terrain exercises, obstacle handling, and low-speed maneuvering—all tailored for BMW GS and similar bikes. A must-consider for brand loyalists and rally attendees.

8. Appalachian ADV – Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia

appalachianadv.com
Appalachian ADV takes a hybrid approach—blending trail riding with embedded skills instruction. Their events and clinics focus on real terrain, not just cone drills, making them ideal for dual-sport and ADV riders who want to train while they explore. With rides covering the rugged Alleghenies and Appalachians, it’s equal parts training and adventure.

9. MotoMark1 Adventure Rider Training – North Carolina

motomark1.com
MotoMark1 combines tactical law enforcement-style motorcycle training with ADV-specific scenarios. Their Adventure Rider program includes technical drills like off-camber turns, slow-speed control, and emergency braking—all tailored to the challenges of adventure travel. Instruction is professional, situational, and built around real-world risk assessment.

10. Ride Adventures Training Tours – Oregon, Arizona + International

rideadv.com
Ride Adventures blurs the line between tour and training. Their “Training Tours” combine scenic multi-day rides with in-the-field instruction, making them perfect for riders who want to learn through experience. Whether you’re navigating volcanic soil in Oregon or gravel washes in Arizona, coaching is delivered in real-time, under real conditions.

With so many high-caliber options across the U.S., there’s no excuse for riding around your weak spots. These programs offer more than cone drills—they teach terrain adaptability, mental strategy, and mechanical finesse that translates directly to the backcountry. For intermediate and advanced riders, a few days of focused instruction can unlock the next level of riding.

Know a school that deserves to be on this list? Reach out and let us know—we’re always looking to spotlight programs that make a real difference in the ADV world.

-Kevin Cave