Did the CMSP intro course last weekend with Ray Sloan(e?). Great dude, great experience. Ray is a really cool guy who knows how to read a room and can adjust his teaching style to match his students both in the classroom and out in the field. Very passionate guy who cares a lot about teaching things the right way (really safety minded), but I get that he might come off as scary to some people. The motorcycle I ended up using for the on the field portions was a bit of a downer compared to the Nighthawks my classmates used- that silver Kawasaki Eliminator with the dented tank has some maaaajor idle issues (dies without full choke, even after being warmed up for like 15 or 20 minutes) so I had a pretty sore right hand from needing to always stay on the throttle. Minor gripe. The strict on-time policy kinda blows, but if it's a CA DMV thing, I get it. Overall, great experience. $238 and two days were definitely worth it. I have no regrets spending the time and money over trying to teach myself and then doing the DMV riding test. Notes: At the Alameda location, water and some trail mix are provided on the field, and there's a pretty decent portapotty that serves as the bathroom. Better than I expected. Read Less

I want to start by saying this place seems unequivocally committed to safety, and the "arrive on time policy" seems totally fair.The reason I'm not giving 4 stars is because of the instructor, Ray. So I think it started when I raised my hand to answer a question during the classroom training and he said "didn't you answer a question already?" And I said no and he does this thing where he tries to mimic my voice but makes it high pitched (because I'm a girl I guess?). I don't know, but it was weird and I probably didn't look entertained. From that point on, he seemed to just keep giving off a weird attitude to me and the entire group throughout the course... like he was mad we didn't laugh at his jokes or something... and I didn't care I just want to learn to ride a motorcycle.I want to mention that there's another instructor (forgetting his name) who joins us on the course and he's new or temporary but amazing! Very supportive and chill and helpful and I actually ride better when I'm working with this guy instead. I wish he had been there on Sunday, because in the final two hours of the training Ray kicked me out. Please bear in mind that I never dropped a bike, I did stall a couple times but I was trying very hard and participating etc. My bike had a low battery and the engine wouldn't start a lot so I had to move over to the side of the track while other people kept going. Ray came over to me (I wish it had been any other instructor because I don't think it would have gone down the same way). He had just threatened to kick the entire class out if he saw one more safety violation. And I was just mentioning that this particular course was giving me a hard time because two lanes of bikes suddenly turn into one and bike distance was becoming a problem for everyone. I should have just kept my mouth shut because all of a sudden he says "you said you are too scared to ride you need to leave." And he keeps repeating it as if doing that will make it true. Have you ever had someone lie about what you said and use it against you? I was upset! This guy was telling ME what I said and then making me leave the range for it. I was floored. And even though I kept saying "I didn't say that, that's not true" there was no other witness and he knew it, so he could keep saying it. I realized ok, I'm just going to apologize for the misunderstanding and try to reconcile things. It didn't work, because this guy was so intent on kicking me out ("you need to leave my range"). He gave no reason other than making up something that I said and using it against me. I was devastated. This was a ton of money and I'm a student with limited time and finances. I got a call from CARE a few days later and they offered to let me come back for free, but at that point my semester was getting busy and I also didn't want to risk dealing with Ray for another 2 days. In conclusion, if your instructor is Ray just keep your head down and take your safety questions etc. to another instructor. Read Less

Excellent instructors that genuinely seemed that they cared about your safety and that you succeeded in the course. I learned so much and had fun while attending the classes. Once I get my license I might go back to take an advanced/ intermediate class! Thank you!Read Less

Didn't know what to expect going in knowing Jack, much much more educated having finished the course. My review is for my instructor Ray. His patience and passion to teach is what made my experience great. He definitely loves to ride and you can tell he wants us to have fun while being able to live to see another day. He has a very keen sense for details and will spot your mistake from 200ft away. Then, he'll correct it by telling you what you did incorrectly and how to correct it. For the classroom portion, he was detailed but to the point. Used real life examples to help the class understand the dangers "bad ju ju" of why we should ride correctly and safely. Made it fun and not another 101. Read Less

Excellent experience from start to finish!  Angela is awesome!  She is cheerful and organized and was very responsive to my emails while registering for class and called to make sure I didn't have questions before class started.        The classroom portion was interesting and informative but the fun happens in the motorcycle portion.  It was a blast!  There's a lot to learn if you're a newbie like me but the class is extremely well organized --explaining what you're going to practice, practicing it, then reviewing what you practiced.  My instructors- Sue, Sam, Kyle and Ray were excellent with special kudos to Sam for bringing the comedy and the great knowledge, great combo.            My evening ended with a fail and being counseled out due to my error but even that was handled expertly and with grace.  Yes, I'll be repeating the riding portion but honestly, it can't hurt to get more practice.  I'm looking forward to it:) Read Less

This school (business) is ridiculous when it comes to how they treat their students (customers).  My wife and I took this together to get our licenses.  What an unpleasant experience.  If you miss a class, or get kicked out of one (which is easy to do), then you have to pay an additional $100 and its up to you to try and show up early before random classes and hope you get a spot.  They don't help you rebook and there are no refunds.  Awesome.  We saw a number of students get kicked out.  Two were turned away for being less than five minutes late.  We were told over and over, class starts at 7 am, and to be there 15 minutes early.  We left our car and joined the group to be immediately told we were late and were almost kicked out.  I looked at the time and it was 6:46.  Wow.  The in-class instructor, Ken, was personal and fun, cracking jokes and being friendly.  On the 'range' as they called it there was another instructor, Michael, who didn't identify himself even though he was rudely bossing people around while he sat in a chair eating a banana.  My wife finally asked, "who are you?"  He said, I'm Michael, still not informing us that he was actually an instructor.Still without identifying himself as an instructor he doubtfully inspected our riding gloves.  We said that we had just bought them the night before from a motorcycle apparel store.  We thought he was just an annoying rude student.  Finally Ken introduced Michael as his co-instructor.  Then I accidentally got on my bike before being told too.  Oops.  I was supposed to know that I wasn't supposed to do that and Michael informed me that my defensive attitude wasn't needed.  Uhh...It was such a weird, tense atmosphere.  I don't know how anyone is expected to learn anything or actually enjoy riding a motorcycle.  My wife actually got a little upset and asked for a minute to calm down and Michael told her she wasn't emotionally prepared, yelled at her, and kicked her out of the class! So as we walked to our car, with zero communication about what to do, I looked back baffled at the whole thing.  Is this really how they run a 'school?'  But if you think about it, it makes sense.  If they push people out of the class with aggressive attitudes and draconian rules, then they have a smaller class size, which is better for the instructor anyway.  And you can't ask for your money back.  And you have to pay an additional $100 just for the privilege of taking the horrible class again.  So its a win win for them.  They are covered either way, whether they teach us or not.  So why would they care? Read Less

I am so grateful for this class and would recommend it to anyone wanting to learn the basics about riding a motorcycle and learning techniques to keep you upright and safe. It's also structured very well and the instructors use the same manual to teach from so the instructions and exercises are clear. Ken is really awesome at providing positive feedback and constructive criticism when needed. I'd say he's a natural teacher and suspect he's been doing this for a long time. I took the morning range course, which I'd highly recommend if you don't want to get stuck in the afternoon sun. You'll be wearing your helmet about 90% of the time and long sleeves and pants - hot. Also, be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes EARLY for role call. They are not messing around with showing up on time. You paid for it so come prepared and look up the site locations beforehand! Read Less

Wow!! Where to start? Well, I guess I can start by giving you a little history. I had taken another riding course (at a different school) last May. I unfortunately didn't pass the written examination of the class and missed my deadline to retake it. Let's just say the terms set out by the other school were obscure and basically written to take students' money. So when I was finally ready to retake the course and get my license, I was a little apprehensive about what my experience would be like the second time around. Disclaimer, it was amazing!! The way CARE structured their evening classes was perfect! The first class session was focused on registering students, preparing us for the range day 1, and giving us a nice intro into the material. This time around I knew what I needed to do to pass the written exam: read the manual! But I also felt by not covering an enormous amount of material during the first class, it allowed students to become acclimated to the material and the structure of the class (i.e. No information overload). It also allowed me more time to study the manual closely! Ken was our instructor, and he was amazing! He kept everyone engaged with the material and kept the class light and entertaining. The other amazing thing about the structure of the class is that the instructors edit the written exam immediately after you take it (at the end of class day 2) and give you your results right then and there (instead of waiting till the end of range day 2 like at the other school). And guess who got a perfect score!! This girl. I was feeling pretty confident going into range day 2! I had already passed the riding exam less than a year ago, no problem, so I felt I had this in the bag. But life often throws us surprises and challenges when we least expect them. There were so many elements against me as I entered the exam at the end of range day 2: I had gotten very little sleep the night before, which was even worse because my 6:30am morning class fell on daylight savings (so I was really waking up at 3:30 am and not 4:30 like my clock tried to tell me); I bought coffee to try to combat the lack of sleep, but I'm pretty sensitive to coffee and it made me anxious, jittery and in my head; I was soaking wet from riding five hours in the rain; and I was overwhelmed by test anxiety. Long-story short, I didn't pass the riding exam. I was pretty upset, but Ken was really nice and encouraged me to come back and retake range day 2 and gave me some pointers about what to work on. Two-weeks later, this time on a Saturday afternoon, I was able to get into a class as a standby student. I had new instructors this time around, Michael and Omar, who collectively have over 23-years experience teaching this curriculum. They were awesome and I really felt comfortable and at ease on the bike as the day went on (it didn't hurt that the weather was perfect too!). I ended up needing to retake the exam a third time (for no fault of my own). Michael and Omar were incredible!! They calmed me down and agreed to stay extra to re-administer the exam for me and another girl. I passed!! Happy as a clam I was finally at the moment I had hoped for. I got all my paperwork squared away and went on my merry way. They say 10 business days to get you DL 389, I got mine in 6. I also lost my graduation card, which gets you discounts on insurance and gear. I was so upset! And retraced every step looking for this thing. Called and left a message Monday, got a call back Tuesday from Angela the owner, who is also amazing. I got my graduation card in the mail today (a 2 day turn around is pretty incredible)! I wish I could give them 10 stars because they deserve it. It was a night and day experience from the one I had with the other school. I really feel like this school cares about its students' safety and well-being and truly wants everyone to pass (although it's not guaranteed as I learned a few times). I'm going to take my DMV test tomorrow, and with my DL 389 I should be able to get my motorcycle endorsement! I'm going back Saturday to give Michael and Omar some gifts. Who knows maybe I'll ride there on a new bike! Thanks a million Angela, Ken, Michael, and Omar! Read Less

My problem with this school is if you're 1 minute late they send you away then you have to keep coming back in hopes that someone  else is late to take their spot. I completed  this school but was 3 min late the morning of the 1st riding course because I couldn't find their parking lot,coming through the gate entrance it's behind a small building. I came back twice as a stand by but couldn't get in I was so mad. I got lucky with a call for a spot eventually.I would check out another training  course. I know people who went to a  Hayward riding school that have less classes. Read Less

Just graduated the course. Had been riding for about a year and a half without my license and was still able to learn so much from this course. Great instructors, especially Winona. Very expressive and straight forward. She's very stern so don't take offense to her demeanor she knows what she's talking about. I would recommend this course to anybody beginning or experienced riders. Read Less

The reason for the two star. Is, if you miss a class or fail a class. Cross your finger and hopefully someone doesn't show up for the next final day of class. Even for me, live in Oakland and it was a drag having to wake up at 5am to get there just to secure a spot and more often they will tell you there no space pretty stressful position. If I can recall, I had to go back about 3 different days to retake my final days. This place is all about the $$$. Only if they have a day in between class for folks who miss or fail. The opportunity to take class and work with folks to get their time worth!!! Read Less

It's a good class and your insurance will give you a discount IF you pass. Here is the problem: If you don't pass (there are always 2 or 3 who don't ... quota??) then they offer you to come back for the final day of another course and if there is a no-show then you can retake the class. My buddy did not pass a few month ago and he has been back many times to wait for no-shows which rarely happens given the high cost of the class. There also has been a continuous stream of other no-passers who tried to retake the class. Most people eventually give up, some just take the class again.There should be an extra day each month for all the no-passers, I am sure most would gladly pay a little fee to avoid showing up for many month and hoping for a no-show. Read Less

I took my MSF course with the California Rider Education of Alameda, and had an absolute blast. Sure, I was stiff for most of it. Sure, I stalled the engine a few times. But I got more comfortable with my skills by the end of the course. The instructors were great -- they offered support through the whole thing and offered plenty of handy tips.I still have a ways to go before I'm super comfortable on the road, but for somebody who's never been on a bike before this, this course is a godsend. Read Less

Two thumbs up!  People - The coaches are excellent!  They thoroughly teach you all the basics of motorcycle operation.  I went into the class with zero experience with both a manual transmission or a motorcycle.  The coaches give you plenty of attention, especially if you are having trouble with something.  After every exercise, they give you good feedback on how you could improve.  In addition, they are quite friendly and happy to share stories during water breaks.  If I go back for a refresher course or the advanced courses, I'd be happy to learn from these folks again!Location - The riding portion of the course takes place in a large parking lot near the USS Hornet museum.  Plenty of space to park if you're driving, decent to get to if you have a bicycle, and a huge pain if you are relying on public transit.  Can vary from being super cold and windy to super hot, so check the forecast!Scheduling - Don't be late.  They take punctuality very seriously.  Once they start the day's class, you're out of luck if you're not there.  Showing up ~10 mins early is even better, you'll need a little bit of time to sign in and get your gear.  Make sure you bring the proper attire as well, they won't let you on the course if you show up in tennis shoes and a t-shirt.Equipment - Pretty decent, they provide communal helmets, so the morning session is a little nicer as your helmet hasn't been marinated yet.  The motorcycles they have are mostly Honda Nighthawks, Rebels, Suzuki Intruders, and a dirt bike.Also, if you do the afternoon course, there's a flea market at the College of Alameda in the mornings, nice place to check out and get some lunch before heading to the class! Read Less

So impressed with their customer service!  They accommodated us by providing interpreting service with no questions asked - We experienced no hesitations or struggles (we have experienced that with other organizations - making it unnecessary barrier for us)  They are so wonderful!   We are scheduled for 06/27-30) and we are super excited.  I will go back to Yelp and review for "aftermath" course.   Thanks again! Read Less

California Rider Education - best $ spent in a long long time.  California Rider Education was an exceptional and enjoyable experience! First of all - Rider Coach Glenda Y is fabulous. She is extremely patient, knowledgeable and a really good person. She's upbeat, supportive and nurturing without making you feel like a complete newbie. I learned more in those three days of training then I did in 1 1/2 years of riding. I had an accident on my Vespa and was completely insecure about getting back on - until I took the class. I feel so much more confident to get back on.In addition, Angela, the owner is extremely responsive and professional and also a sweetheart. You can tell she really cares about the riders and the overall practice.It was an amazing learning experience and I have to attribute that mostly to Angela and Glenda and the tight and nurturing ship they run. Read Less

I took classes at the beginning of Feb, 2012.Even though each in-class and range classes are almost 5 hours,I enjoyed every single minutes.Instructors  are friendly and encouraging.If you asked questions, they've got answers.Also, They sent me a certification quicklyThe only reason I subtract a star is motorcycles used in range practice.a motorcycle I used had broken mirrors, blinkers, and transmission was not good.Other than that, I'd highly recommend taking classes at CA.R.E. Read Less

So....I just learned how to ride a bicycle last year (I was a deprived child). I was feeling a bit invincible after learning how to ride on two wheels, and went for motorcycles a few months after.  I did a two weekend class with a buddy of mine. The instructors were so encouraging and supportive with the perfect amount of firmness in their approach to teaching.  I'll be honest, I was surprised that I didn't get kicked out of the class after dropping the bike a million times and revving it on accident while I was down in panic mode, haha. Instead, the instructors put me on a scootie and pushed me to work harder.  I eventually passed the class and got my M1! If you're a female with the slightest thought of wanting to hop on a moto, I commend you and encourage you to take this class. I have zero regrets. Tips: - you need your own helmet and gloves, borrow it from someone - you need shoes that cover your ankles - look where you want to go! Read Less

I had never been on a motorcycle before I did the MSF course offered by California Rider Education of Alameda. Registration was straightforward, and Angela was very responsive and friendly. I'm sorry to hear about MMS's experience, but I felt the waitlist policy was fair and honest.The instructors I had were educational, made sure to stress what would matter in the real world, and although they could be brusque, it's tough love, ya know? Being a newbie didn't really hinder my riding experience, although I did know how to drive a stick-shift care beforehand (makes understanding how the clutch works easier).If you're in the East Bay or even general Bay Area and want to learn how to ride a motorcycle and get halfway to a motorcycle license, I'd strongly recommend the motorcycle course offered by California Rider Education of Alameda. Ps. For riding gear, I'd recommend the affordable Cycle Gear. Read Less

I took this class last weekend and it was the best investment ever!!  The first day of class is workbook driven, basically watching videos and answering questions.  The MCF workbook pretty much mirrors the CA Motorcyle handbook at the DMV.  Be prepared to work in groups, which is cool because you can divy up the questions.  My class in particular was very mixed, from major newbies (like me) to riders getting back into the scene after a taking a breakf for a couple years.  The instructor of the class our class was Kiem and she was cool.The second day of class was on the range.  "Oh crap, I'm going to drop the bike," is what immediately ran through my head.  I've never rode on a motorcycle before so I was experiencing a little anxiety.  Our two range instructors for the day were Omar and another guy, I forgot his name, sorry!  They were both cool and very patient.  After getting a feel for the bike, doing the first few lessons, I was starting to feel comfortable, to the point where I was bummed that it was the end of our lesson for the day!On our third (and last) day of class was on the range, our instructors were Matt and Lisa, they too were very cool and patient.  We continued on with our lessons leading up to our skills test.  What I liked about Lisa is that she was a bit firm but really cool and made sure that you kept repeating the particular lesson until you improved.  Granted, a few people (and myself!) were singled out but, it was cool, I'd rather scrub during class than on the highway!The skills test consisted of four parts, pretty much four lessons that you've learned that day.  I didn't think I'd pass but I did!PROS:  If you're thinking about riding a motorcycle, whether full-time or leisure, riding the backseat, or just to refresh your skills, this is a great class to take.  Definitely worth the investment!NEGATIVES:  During the range sessions, we didn't take a lunch break, but we did take several 5-minute breaks.  OVERALL:  THIS CLASS ROCKS!  It's worth the wait!  This class made the written exam at the DMV a total breeze to pass!TIPS:  They do provide water, but do bring snacks and water (just in case they run out) on to the range.  They do provide helmets but if you have one, bring your own.  If you're in the afternoon range session, the helmets they have might be a little moist from the morning session.  They have hair protectors but it doesn't do much and is more of a hassle than anything. Read Less