After reading the article about The Riders Workshop in the February 2006 issue of The BMW MOA ON (click here to read the article), and as a lover of sport touring motorcycling, I couldn’t wait to meet Jim Ford! I was able to catch up with him at a Timonium, Maryland bike show in February. Eye contact alone was enough to convince me I was in the right place. Talking to Jim for just 20 minutes was an inspiration. His passion and articulate expression of motorcycle riding is like nothing I ever experienced before. He instantly soothes and comforts you with his motorcycling vision. I immediately signed up for his inaugural workshop, a 3 day/3 night trip of glorious twisties in the mountains and valleys of Virginia and West Virginia.

I just completed the workshop in April and had to relay my experience to you.
Jim’s riding techniques (smooth is the word----and smooth he is!) and knowledge of the back roads, truly invisible roads with hardly any traffic, is incredible! His calming and deliberate presentation of motorcycling skills is unlike anything you have ever experienced; truly words to live by. One of the most amazing aspects of Jim, is astounding knowledge of rural back roads that most motorcyclists never new existed. He took us (a group of 4) to sport touring heaven. Road after road of beautiful, scenic curves. Rain (and we had plenty of rain) or shine, the 300 mile/days pass too soon. It’s like you never want to get off the bike. He uses words like “strategic” and “important” to describe roads that aren’t even on the map.
When we stayed at the Fort Lewis Lodge, he walked us down to the banks of the Cow Pasture River, absolutely beautiful, and said, “I just like the name”. That says a lot! He talks about butterflies and birds. It’s not just about motorcycling, it’s about the entire experience. It’s about life. Jim is truly a Guru! His passion and love of the sport and life needs to be experienced.
So, if you want to if want the ultimate cycling experience, try The Riders Workshop. I can’t wait for my next trip with Jim.

Mark R. Simeral
C.E.O., Simeral Construction Company, Lititz, PA