Tips

If you're registered for a class, here's what you need to know:

Dress Appropriately

Long Sleeves are required for hands-on portions of all riding courses.

If it's going to be warm, you may find that a lightly colored long sleeve t-shirt is just the ticket.  An armored riding jacket is fine, better than fine, actually, but at speeds at which the course is conducted the shirt should provide pretty good protection.

Also factor in that there is a good amount of walking around and sitting in the sun and heat and a jacket may prove to be troublesome from a fatigue standpoint.

In the colder months, it is a good idea to dress in layers. The clothes required to keep you warm at first light may prove burdensome once things get rolling in the afternoon.

Have proper Footwear.  Over-the-ankle footwear is required.

Footwear made of a sturdy material that covers the ankle bones, with thin rubber soles and low heels are best. "Biker" boots with big clunky soles often make it hard to manipulate foot controls. Cowboy boots with leather soles can be a bit slippery on pavement.

It also doesn't hurt to be prepared for any weather. Classes will run rain or shine.

Having something handy in case of a drastic climate change will ensure you stay comfortable.

Prepare Mentally

A good majority of the people who are unsuccessful in the BRC suffer from        "I Can't-itis". 

They allow themselves to become overwhelmed by the situation and doom their chances of success. Fatigue is a factor, as is stress, and survival instincts are pretty hard to set aside.

Something you should know about riding a motorcycle: It is about 95% mental.

Wrapping your brain around the situation and maintaining focus is a vast majority of the battle.

Prepare Physically

I doubt many triathlon competitors will find the BRC physically challenging, but riding is indeed a physical activity.

Few people are subjected to a "surprise" BRC, so use the time in advance to get yourself ready. Ride a bicycle to get practice balance. Take walks during the time of day that you are scheduled to ride.

Nowadays, It's not uncommon for people to walk fewer than a couple hundred steps a day, during the course of their daily life. Being suddenly thrust into a fast paced environment,  exposed to the elements, and the stress of learning several new skills in a short period of time can make the BRC physically challenging.

You'll also want to begin hydrating a few days BEFORE  the course begins. If you get thirsty while on the range, it's too late. You won't be able to replace the fluids you need fast enough. Being dehydrated is a distraction, it makes you uncomfortable and impedes the learning process.

Protect Yourself

Wear sunscreen.

Consider the environment you'll be training in. In Prescott, it's usually sunny and windy. A stinging red face and neck can easily become a distraction.