Freddie Spencer took Bill Burr through the demands of riding on a circuit, with the American comedian using a Yamaha motorcycle. Burr is still relatively new to motorcycling and has even less track experience, making the session more detailed than a collection of broad riding tips.

The coaching began with fundamentals that are easy to overlook. Spencer worked with Burr on hand position and on developing a consistent feel when operating the front brake and clutch levers. He also focused on how slowly the front brake should be released, a detail that affects the motorcycle’s control as it enters a corner.

Learning from a three-time champion

Spencer brought substantial experience to the session. He won Grand Prix world titles in 1983 and 1985, taking both the 250cc and 500cc championships during the latter year. His honours also include induction into the AMA Hall of Fame in 1999 and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2001. The FIM named him a Grand Prix Legend in 2001.

Burr described the Yamaha as remarkably nimble and easy to control, although he said it took a little time to get used to the motorcycle. He also joked that Spencer was riding in first gear while he was in fifth. Used Bikes Direct posted the training video on its official YouTube channel, showing how much detail can go into even an introductory track session.

Spencer is scheduled to work with Used Bikes Direct again on October 28 and 29 at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas. The follow-up underlines a different part of his racing legacy: alongside his championships, he now passes practical track knowledge to riders still building their fundamentals. Burr has been nominated twice for a Grammy in the Best Comedy Album category and ranked 17th on Rolling Stone’s 2017 list of the 50 greatest stand-up comedians.