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newbie

twinpeakes started this topic @ 20:01 on 12/09/2004

I am planning to start up by own bike training company, part time to begin with, and then ultimately, when the time is right to make the break and go full time. I am not doing it just because I am good at, and enjoy the training, ultimately, I see it as a challenge. However, having spent 20 years in the employ of an organisation, its a bit scary!!! I need a bit of reassurance, and advice. Wot say you all?

Phil

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RE: newbie

#197679

Adam | 12/09/2004 08:36 PM

How do you train a bike, is it like training a dog?

Seriously though with the limited info the idea sounds fine. What is your business model?

I assume you are talking about CBT (Compuslory Basic Training) so do you provide bikes and can you afford it? Do you have land or is it done on the roads?

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www.youcangetit.co.uk - Business services and community. Do you get it?

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RE: RE: newbie

#197680 in reply to #197679

twinpeakes | 12/09/2004 08:48 PM

I tell you, some of these bikes are easily trained, just gotta show 'em who's boss!!!!

I am basically intending to train CBT, as you rightly say, and Direct Access, which is training for larger bikes. ADditionally, when things are a bit settled, i intend to carrry out Advance training as well, for those riders who have passed their test, but need, shall we say, tweaking? I have identified a site off road, just looking for the relevant permissions, etc. Some of it is done off road, most on the road

I have been a motorcyclist for nearly thirty years, man and boy, (literally!) and I have a talent for training, so I thought I would try to combine the two, and get cracking, after quite some period of prevarication.

Thats the easy bit, getting all the bases covered is a wee bit more difficult, so i am looking anywhere and everywhere to get advice/speak with people/look for support/phsychiatric help, etc

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RE: RE: newbie

#197682 in reply to #197679

Mattd | 15/09/2004 10:59 AM

Phil,

Sounds like you have a head start in your business on alot of people as you are already an accomplished rider and trainer, so you can do the work that you need to do in your business. If its what you want then go for it, and starting part time will minimise your risk while you build up a reputation and the business.

Now you need to build your business around your skills. I am sure that there are plenty of people on the site who can give you sound advice on all aspects of this.

I would recommend going to your local enterprise council to see if you can get on a course or two (if you haven't already) that cover things like self employment and creating a business plan. These are a bit theory based but they will get you to think about your idea and you most likely meet other people on the course who are in a similar position.

Good luck

MattTD

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RE: RE: newbie

#197683 in reply to #197679

Adam | 15/09/2004 11:37 AM

As Matt said, you seem well on the way and just need to ensure you have the staffing and admin side under control.

Never be afraid to call the Inland Revenue new employers helpline or the VAT Adivce Line if appropriate as they will spend hours helping you in advance and not b0l0cking you afterwards for a minor error!

I have always wanted to fo my CBT, where are you based?

Have a look around this and other forum (check peoples signatures for links) as you will see a lot of marketing and promotional advice posts and some common questions and pitfulls.

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www.youcangetit.co.uk - Business services and community. Do you get it?

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RE: newbie

#197681

pdw | 12/09/2004 08:53 PM

Dear Phil,

I am new to this web site, found it today!

I started my business back in 1999, part time at first and took the plunge in Jan 2001 full time.

If you enjoy Bike Training then your business will do well but remember dont loose sight "you are in business" and you will have good and bad times, there will be people out in your field who dont want to see you succeed and also look around at close friends, they will give you all the support you need to be successful

Set you self out a business plan for the next 6 - 12 months and make sure you include your earnings into the calc

If you love Bike Training then think of the services you will provide to your clients, have a look at other Bike Trainer businesses and see what they provide and see if you can add a service they have not thought off or look at a way to improve on there services provided.
Service to your clients is most important and this is what has made me start-up
I would run the business for 6 months part time and then look at this period to see if it is practical to go full time. (e.g will I earn more money full time rather than part time. will I have more work ect)

If you have a dream then go for it but don’t think it will be a smooth ride

Paul
PDW Contracting Services Ltd
paul.whitehead@pdwcontracting.com

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