Off-road training in France: level 2, 2 days

For riders who have already done an off-road course, with us or elsewhere, and genuinely ride off the tarmac. It is a sporty advanced course: take the next step, gain speed and ease standing on the pegs, and last through a long day on the tracks. The group is limited to 8 riders, coached by an English-speaking instructor and guide certified by the French Motorcycling Federation.

Level 1, over one day, two days or three days, introduces tracks to riders who are at ease on the road. Level 2 builds on that: more demanding exercises, then a trail ride on tougher tracks. If you have never ridden off-road, start with a Level 1 course.

Day 1 starts at 8.30am with breakfast, followed by a full day on a private 4x4 ground: obstacles, side slopes, slow and faster riding, standing at a steady pace, and exercises shaped around what you want to work on. Day 2 is a trail ride of about 93 miles (150 km), where the instructor also teaches you to read the route and manage your energy.

Yes, this is a sporty course: the standing exercises and the long ride on day 2 call for stamina. Mountain biking, trail running or running help a great deal. Before you book, your travel advisor asks about your off-road experience, your fitness and your height, to check that this level is right for you.

A recent Royal Enfield Himalayan 411, the same motorcycle as on the Level 1 courses, so if you have ridden with us before you will know it. A full UK or European motorcycle licence, category A or A2, is enough. If you have a question about seat height, ask your travel advisor.

Level 2 is designed for riders, each on their own motorcycle, at a faster pace than Level 1, where pillions are welcome. If you were thinking of bringing a pillion, talk to your travel advisor before booking: they will tell you what is possible or point you towards a Level 1 course.

£690 (€790) per rider. The price covers the motorcycle, fuel, third-party motorcycle insurance, the instructor and guide, one night in a standard hotel, dinner on day 1, breakfast on day 2 and both lunches. Travelling solo, you share a twin room or take a single room for £45 (€50). Not included: riding gear, travel, a €600 deposit per rider, medical expenses insurance (compulsory if you are not covered by French social security) and, on your first booking, a £31 (€35) registration fee.

Your own full kit: nothing is lent and gear is compulsory. An approved full-face helmet, high boots, reinforced gloves, a jacket with back protection and trousers with knee protection. At Level 2 you ride faster and for longer, so well-fitting gear makes a difference. Add a rain suit and a hydration pack; nets hold your bag on the seat. Full list in our help centre.

Near Lyon, at 8.30am on day 1; the exact meeting point is confirmed when you book. On day 2, the trail ride ends at our base in Anse, in the Beaujolais: plan your journey home from 6pm. The nearest airport is Lyon Saint-Exupéry, and the night before the course is at your own expense. There is no support vehicle: if needed, the instructor calls the emergency services.

The season runs from March to November. No date is published on this page at the moment: ask your travel advisor when the next Level 2 course will take place. Other dates are possible on request to your travel advisor. As the group is limited to 8 riders, it is worth getting in touch early.