ADVENTURE RIDING CLINICS WITH SHAWN THOMAS & LOUISE COLEEN POWERS

Saturday, November 14 & Sunday, November 15, 2026
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
RawHyde Adventures – Castaic, CA
RSVP NOW: (818) 446-2450
BMW Motorcycles of Burbank invites you to spend a day learning how to handle your adventure motorcycle off pavement. Whether this is your first time in the dirt or you have been riding off-road for years, Shawn Thomas and Louise Coleen Powers will help you become a better, more confident rider.
Why Take an Adventure Riding Clinic?
Big adventure bikes handle differently in dirt, gravel, sand, and other loose terrain. Some street-riding skills carry over, but others need to be adjusted. Good instruction lets you practice those differences in a safe environment, with someone there to help improve your skills.
Meet Your Coaches
Shawn Thomas is an internationally certified off-road instructor and BMW Motorrad Brand Ambassador. He has spent 24 years teaching riders how to get more out of themselves and their motorcycles.
Louise Coleen Powers is a world traveler and adventure riding coach with more than 12 years of experience. At under 5’4″, Louise knows firsthand that you do not have to be tall or especially strong to ride a big adventure bike. Her own motorcycle is a BMW R 1300 GS Adventure.
Together, Shawn and Louise have taught more than 10,000 riders worldwide.
What You Will Work On
The clinic begins with four basics: balance, braking, clutch control, and throttle control. Shawn and Louise explain each skill, demonstrate it, and give you time to practice. The exercises build on one another throughout the day.
- Better control at low speeds and on loose surfaces
- How to manage the size and weight of an adventure bike
- How balance, brakes, clutch, and throttle work together
- Plenty of practice, feedback, and individual help
You Can Do More Than You Think!
One of the things Shawn and Louise hear most often is, “I can’t believe I can do that now!” They start with the basics and add one skill at a time, so the exercises feel challenging but manageable.
Registration
Call BMW Motorcycles of Burbank for reservations at (818) 446-2450.
Riders can bring their own motorcycle or rent one from RawHyde for $200 per day.
Rider Information & FAQ
Are all motorcycle brands welcome?
Yes. All makes and models of adventure and dual-sport motorcycles are welcome, provided the bike is suitable for off-road riding.
What experience do I need?
You do not need any previous off-road experience but should already be comfortable riding a motorcycle. This is not a beginner learn-to-ride course; it teaches experienced street riders how to ride off pavement.
What tires do I need?
Dual-sport tires with at least 50% tread remaining are recommended. Knobby tires are welcome but are not required.
What riding gear should I wear?
At minimum, riders must wear a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, long pants, a shirt, and closed-toe shoes. Full protective riding gear is strongly recommended, including a full-face helmet, armored jacket and pants, and off-road or dual-sport boots and gloves.
How should I prepare my motorcycle?
Tip-overs are a normal part of learning. Engine protection bars, a skid plate, valve-cover guards on BMW boxer-twin models, hand guards, radiator guards, and a headlight guard can help protect your bike. Larger footpegs and handlebar risers may also make the bike more comfortable to ride. Ask BMW Motorcycles of Burbank what makes sense for your motorcycle.
What else should I bring?
Bring plenty of water and a few snacks. A hydration backpack is especially handy because you can drink without taking off your helmet.
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Register through BMW Motorcycles of Burbank at (818) 446-2450.



