Ax Axmaker

Ax first started riding as a teenager when his paper route simply got too big for his bicycle. It wasn't until seven years later that he took his first formal training class, got "hooked," and became an instructor that very same year. That experience shaped his teaching philosophy today; he believes that if he smiles and seems relaxed, it helps new riders relax, too. He ensures students get plenty of time in the saddle, but also "time to observe, and also time to process" with breaks.

Ax is deeply loyal to his motorcycle, a 1997 Honda Valkyrie Tourer he's owned since 2005 and says he'll "never get rid of." He loves taking it on long road trips but also has a lot of fun challenging himself and the big bike in tight cone patterns. His advice for new riders comes from his own experience: "Take a class... Much better (and more fun) than just winging it." When not riding, he stays busy with work and taking short road trips in the car with his wife and teenage son.