Image: Clinton Smout
RIDE READY—a miniseries for anyone getting back on the bike after a break. Whether you’ve been off due to winter weather, a busy schedule, or you’re planning a riding trip, this series is packed with essentials for getting back on, plus tips and tricks for improving your riding skills—all from one of the most experienced instructors in North America, Clinton Smout. This is the final episode of the series.
Clinton Smout - SMART Adventure Programs/SMART Performance Centre
Clinton Smout is a highly regarded chief motorcycle instructor and the founder of SMART Adventures in Ontario, Canada. With his extensive experience and expertise in motorcycling, Clinton has become a prominent figure in motorcycle education and safety. He is known for his passionate approach to teaching, emphasizing the importance of proper riding techniques, road awareness, and safety precautions. Through SMART Adventures, Clinton has helped numerous individuals enhance their motorcycling skills, whether they are beginners looking to learn the basics or experienced riders aiming to refine their techniques. His dedication to promoting safe and responsible motorcycling has made him a respected authority in the Canadian motorcycling community.
Website: SMART Performance Centre
On This Episode:
Emergency braking on gravel—when to switch ABS off and how to build stopping judgment safely
Gravel cornering techniques—weight placement, counter‑steering adjustments, and line selection
Obstacle negotiation—preloading suspension, throttle blips, and “tiger” stance to roll over logs smoothly
Skid steering & power slides—using rear‑brake and throttle control to recover from slides and tighten your turning radius
Practical tips on first aid preparedness and gear checks to ensure you make it home safely.
DISCLAIMER: This segment is provided solely for informational purposes and should not be viewed as a substitute for formal rider training. It is highly recommended that you consult a certified professional trainer before attempting any of the discussed techniques, or proceed at your own risk. Canoe West Media, Adventure Rider Radio, SMART Adventures, SMART Performance Centre, and Clinton Smout accept no liability for any injuries or damages sustained, including but not limited to those affecting yourself, another individual, or a motorcycle. Your safety and the safety of others are of the utmost importance.
More RIDER SKILLS episodes at https://adventureriderradio.com/riderskills.