Extremely good course

A very well rounded course with an excellent tutor that taught me more than I thought I needed to keep me safer on the road, not just the basics
Thank you for a good day.

Steve Chance

Great Day CBT

Very thorough course with a very down to earth instructor who worked hard to help me wherever she could answer all questions and the knowledge had no bounds. Personally I learnt a lot and have plenty of new knowledge to take forward. Thank you Mantis Motorcycling 🙂

Richard Clark

Excellent CBT Training

I have recently done my CBT Training and it was excellent.
Kelly makes you feel relaxed and has a good way of training I learnt alot from my training and intend going back to do my full motorbike license training.
The day I had my training it rained all day but we got through it nothing was to much trouble thankyou for a good days training.

John Minis

Hard work but so worth it

Did the Direct acess with mantis after being recommended by a friend and it was a great experience
Kelly rearly knows her stuff and is a fun and enthusiastic
I really can’t recommend mantis highly enough

Paul Andrew harris

Brilliant

I have completed my CBT with Kelly and family and will be returning for my full test as soon as possible brilliant place

Luke mannering

Outstanding service, great people and thoroughly enjoyable!

What can I say, these guys are fantastic! Knowledge was brilliant, fantastic and patient teachers, lovely people, couldn’t recommend enough! If you’re considering choosing anyone else to give you motorbike tuition, you’re crazy! Get it booked and just do it, you won’t regret it!

Ben Todd

Excellent

I did my das with Kelly I fully enjoyed the time whilst I was there she is a great instructor made me feel comfortable confident thanks Kelly for your help and a beautiful family xx

Alfie robinson

Excellent CBT course.

A professional, educational and fulfilling course. Plenty to take away and practice with, after being given very construction feedback.

Thanks very much Kelly.

Jonathan Hart

The best school for cbt in kent

Loved eve bit of the cbt would allways go back hhad so much 100%

Morgan villis

Top notch

Just completed my DAS with Kelly at Mantis, what an excellent experience. Kelly is an instructor like no other, extremely professional teaching precise road craft skills, and most importantly teaching riders to stay vigilant and safe on the road. Thanks for everything Kelly.

Simon Tolhurst

A fun, friendly environment to learn in, I felt supported and in good hands the whole time.

I completed my A class licence through DAS with mantis motorcycles, starting first with my CBT. Kelly and her family immediately made me welcome (they are all motorbike mad). The selection of bikes available made it really easy to find the right bike for me and they have all been extremely well maintained. Kelly has belief in all of her students, pushing you firmly but with a lot of laughs and understanding to be a competent rider. I am very glad that I chose them to complete my licence with, the whold people process has increased my passion for motorbikes even more.

Alec Dawson

Made me so much more aware of my surroundings.Amazing instructor ! (Kelly)

Having previous riding experience I opted for the 4 day course (three days of intense training and on the last day I took the test). Kelly is an amazing teacher who is very down to earth and makes the ride very enjoyable.
Through out each day I learnt so much with Constance feedback from Kelly to help improve my riding and awareness, with huge amounts of seat time; which I would recommend Kelly to any level of rider (complete novice to experienced)

Harry Hughson

Strongly reccomend them for training.

My son has just passed his CBT and said it was a really good day really enjoyed the training and learnt a lot , will defently be using them again. Strongly reccomend them for training. And the lady instructor is a good laugh as well. But be gentle .

Lewis Andrews

Very friendly and helpful

I struggled a bit with confidence during my CBT and the instructor was very patient and respectful of this. She was really friendly and helpful, allowing me to take my time and eventually succeed in passing. The instructor made it an overall enjoyable experience, and I’ll be sure to reccommend this place for anyone looking to take their CBT.

Oleasha Williams

Great service!

Brilliant service, even after the weather changing the plans. Kelly is very flexible with times and offers a great and reliable service! Knows everything and anything about the tests and bikes on the road making her very reliable in getting a pass. Happy and reliable service and an all round awesome person to be around! Glad I picked mantis motorcycling!

Callum button

Great experience

Great teacher, nice clear instructions with the odd joke thrown in, lovely area to learn in will contact again when A2 is on the table

Grant owen

Professional training with a sense of humour

Calming the nerves of anyone taking a test is hard enough but an 18 year old just adds to that challenge. Kelly made my son very comfortable and really encouraged his learning and confidence all at the best prices locally. I couldn't ask for more.

Cheryll Champion

Great time

Brilliant course, given loads of encouragement and helpful advice. Not only did Kelly trained me to ride a motorcycle properly but it has made me a safer road user in general . Thank you for all your help.

Joe Griffith

It was an amazing experience

Battled the rain and snow but could not fault the tuition given could not have been any better no matter how many obstacles we encountered on our travels. Everyone at Mantis was so friendly and a good laugh which made the training center as a whole, one of the best in my opinion.

Matthew Parfitt

Left brimming with confidence

Thanks so much for a brilliant CBT course. I never imagined that I could learn so much in just one day.

I now see the road so differently. I really understand where to be on the road...I know now how to keep myself safer.

Hugely grateful, Thanks a million!

Maurice Price

Absolutely fantastic, great fun and excellent teaching!

All lovely and very knowledgeable instructors. I cannot recommend a better place to go! The prices are the best and even include food! Will definitely be back for my DAS!

Ashley Smith

It was a great expirence and would recommend

Defenitly would recommend

Alfie Connor jones

Excellent

This is one of the best experiences that I have ever had. The instructors have been the nicest people I have ever met and I couldn't have asked for better I now feel safe and confident on the road I recommend these for anyone who wants to go on a motorbike.

Calling Riley

Relaxed but thorough!

Very happy with the training. Relaxed but very thorough. I went to Mantis as I felt their website was more flexible then other schools in Ashford. That they tailored the lessons to you not that you have to fit into their training scheme.

Janet collins

A fantastic well considered and tailored training course

I just wanted to say a big thank you to Kelly and of course Connor who did my training last weekend. Had a fantastic time and felt I learned a lot. It might only be a CBT but it's allowed me to get on two wheels (after many, many hard years of trying to wear the wife down!). Conner who did my training was very patient and understood my physical difficulties and trained as best he could to ensure I wad allowed to leave Mantis with a certificate!

I had a fantastic time, but most of all Connor was kind enough to sacrifice a days holiday from his regular day job just to allow me to be trained.

Even my helmet offers a little reminder of mantis with a but of pink thrown in lol.

James Freeman

Fantastic

Loads of miles training, loads of practice and advice, very good instructor, would recommend to anyone

Josh godden

Job done!!

Completed my CBT, Mod 1 and Mod 2 with Mantis in 5 days! Started with no riding experience at all and have come away knowing and learning more than I ever thought I would in such a short space of time. Connor was great during my CBT, informative and thorough... Mod 1 and 2 training with Kelly was fantastic, great banter and communication. Getting the miles in was great and I felt completely safe under her instruction which helps you concentrate on the learning!! I never once felt made to feel uneasy or like a 'learner' and got the job done. Overall a great experience 5* from me and couldn't recommend highly enough! I'll be back for some more in the future... off to ride my Castrol CBR600F 😉

Jay Head

Absolutely Awesome Friendly and Fun.

After riding on and off for a long time I finally decided to take my test after being off a bike for at least 8 years. I met Kelly at Mantis and started my training and from start to finish She made my training feel like a thrilling fun experience every time we went out training . I had over 10 years of past bad habits for her to get rid of and bet I wasn't her easiest student . Recommend Mantis to anyone . Absolutely Brilliant and everyone so friendly and welcoming. I will be back for next level of training in a couple of months once I have got used to riding my 1200 cc about . Thank you to you all . Xxx

Rafael Learmonth

One very happy customer!

From nervous novice to trained and confident mod 2 pass in 5 days, all down to the superb training from Kelly. I have only had one instructor, obviously, but couldn't imagine a better one. If you are thinking of taking any kind of motorbike training I couldn't recommend Mantis Motorcycling highly enough.

Mark Sansom

Shit hot instructor passed first time 😀😀

Cheap but top lessons from Kelly the instructor if your in the wrong you will know about it 😂
If you need to know something about anything to do with your lessons or test Kelly is the right instructor to learn with.

Max long

Brilliant training. Loved every minute and made me smile

Kelly made me ride a CBT for my trading and test.
Enjoyed every minute of it
, She makes you smile and puts you at ease.

Chris gumbley

A all round good experience. Much recommended!

A all round good experience. Much recommended!

Liam Deverson

Very good and a very entertaining day !

Overall could not fault, an extremely fun and exciting day ! Would recommend to all people needing a CBT!!!!

Rory Fitzpatrick

A* service and value!

well what can I say? First off I would like to thank all at mantis for their first class service and for making me feel comfortable in my time with them, and especially to Kelly. Mantis is a small family run motorcycle school that caters for all aspects of riding from CBT to refresher courses and direct access and they excel at teaching all of them! Kelly took me out for my first day to iron out all bad habits that I had picked up over the years and straight into my mod 1 on day two! Day three was a comfortable ride to the test centre with an hour or so getting to grips with the local area and again straight into my mod 2, which thanks to Kelly I passed with ease! The most noticeable thing with Kelly is the fact that she doesn't teach you to pass your test - she teaches you to ride safely and passing your test is the bonus at the end of the training. Every day out is a real laugh and you'll be laughing right through until you pass!
Massive thanks to mantis and they are highly recommended by me!

Jono

Fun and exciting

I completed my A2 with Kelly, she is a very good instructor and very informative and knows her stuff! She was very patient with me and got me through my A2 with 1 minor! I still hear her in my ear now! Will be back in a year to complete my DAS, Thanks again, will always recommend!

Sean Hughes

Breath of fresh air Brilliant day thank you Kelly and Connor!!!

It was first time at Mantis after being recommended by a friend. On the morning of my CBT i was was greeted by Kelly with a big smile and welcome. Her knowledge in all all aspects of motorcycling was truly amazing and passionate, and very easy to digest.
at the start of my training i was a little nervous but Kelly just makes you very comfortable from the start, and out on the road she is constantly talking to you through the head set. Kelly is a very unique person and has a different approach to teaching which made my experience even more enjoyable " to say the least i had a smile on my face ' all the time i was riding!!!!.
Thank you for such a brilliant day Kelly and Connor I will see you both soon to do my DAS.

steve

Just the best!

This is my second set of feedback that I've left about Mantis - and I could probably go on singing praises for Kelly and Roy all day long.
Kelly took me from being utterly nerve wracked after a horrible experience at another school all the way through my Mod1 and Mod2 to get my full license.
I really believe that I wouldn't have been able to do it at all without Kelly's teaching - she's extremely patient and just understands exactly how to guide you through learning to ride.
They're all also totally cracking people - you'll feel like you've made some friends in the process.
Bottom line is this - if you want to learn to ride a motorbike just go straight to Kelly - she'll keep you safe and teach you properly.

Wolf Winter

Fun, exciting and rewarding

Doing my A2 at Mantis has been some of the best days I've had on a motorcycle. The experience is fun, exciting and fully rewarding. Mantis is a class riding school

Stuart Paul Webb

Awesome experience.

Thanks to Kelly and andy i passed my DAS first time. great people and really friendly and helpfull recommend going here for and of you bike lessons.

Chris colley

highly recommend

Both my boys done the cbt here and one has done his full bike licence . The instructor is very professional and has a caring nature . She get to know each person individualy . And works hard with each one to make sure they are a safe rider . Which is the most important part of the training . She builds a very good repore with the riders giving them to one guidance . I wish her all the best she deserves it for all her hard work .

jackie herron

Very helpful and have time for anyone

Mantis Motorcycling helped me obtain my CBT, It was challenging, They said they'll make sure I pass and I did, I would very recommend you going there if you want to get on two wheels 🙂

Callam Wainwright

Very good

Very good instructor will be going back to do my full test with Kelly put a smile back on my face to get back on a bike can't wait for further lessons

Hayden breakwell

A wonderful experience

It was a pleasureable experence kelly is a great teacher she is funny and really good to be around but yet stern and to the point if u do wrong you know about it lol i would recomend this experience to everyone and i know i will be back to do more in future thankyou so much was a good adventure 8

Kieron james murphy

Educational and fun

Had a great day doing a Cbt ,very educational and great natural teacher.
Also good banter and fun
Thanks too for lovely bacon sarnie
Would definitely recommend for anyone wanting to learn .
Cheers

Nicholas Gunn

Great experience

Really happy with the training Kelly is a great teacher that teaches different to most , very helpful with all parts of tests and would recommend to anyone looking to do any type of motorcycle training or tests

Harry collinson

where to start "

Well what a great days training weather was raining but that didn't stop the day.
Instructor was very helpful clear in what was asked.
120%. Id give as all round enjoyable day so big thanks to you and will defo be back

Nathan

nathan woodbridge

Absolutely brilliant!

My son completed his CBT this weekend with Kelly and he is the happiest teenager going!
He really liked Kelly, she was patient, kind and above all took no nonsense from any road user towards her pupils. She earned his respect in a matter of minutes and he felt confident in her presence.
I would highly recommend Mantis Motorcycling.

Tracey Halliwell

what a xmas present

what a blast,my mate olly recomended kelly at mantis to do my DAS, i"m so glad, kelly is so down to earth and made me feel so relaxed and with-out worry, kelly is a brilliant instructor and made me feel safe on the road,i done the 4 day course and passed both modules, i thought i had no chance before i started, how wrong was i. thankyou so much kel and all at mantis. jase......

jason allen

First Class training

I phoned Mantis late on a Friday afternoon and spoke to Kelly asking if she could get me through a Mod 1 and Mod 2 course the following week.
Kelly phoned me back withing 30 minutes and all was arranged...... and this was the week before Christmas.
Kelly was a great instructor and made it fun even though the weather wasn't great.
Anyway, with a bit of kicking I passed both tests first time. I have Kelly to thank for that.
Oh yes...great price too.
Final thought of the day.....

The 'Bandit' may yet convert me to the 'black stuff'!

Thanks

Rod Noakes

Just do it…..You won’t regret a single moment!!

I will always be extremely grateful for Kelly’s tuition and patience for getting me through my DAS after deciding that riding a bike would be my designated midlife crisis.
After having a really bad experience at another school I was ready to give up but with a bit of prodding from the other half and some arrangement’s being made with Kelly I was on my way.

The most important thing that Kelly gave me was the confidence that I could do it and even after taking tests in a car, bus and coach I would regard this as the most thorough and informative driving training I have ever received.

Kelly is a born tutor. To be honest I am sure she could teach any subject and that obviously comes across in her methods. Even three months after taking the tests I still hear her voice in my head when riding my bike and I’m sure I took that headset off!

I would not hesitate in recommending Mantis to anyone considering any form of motorbike training whether it be a CBT, DAS or advanced. Just do it…..You won’t regret a single moment!!

Kevin Banks

Fantastic day

Me and the missus have been driving for decades and have had a 50cc scooter for a while but decided to do our cbt test so we could get a biiger one and so off we went to Mantis, What can I say? had a fantastic day with plenty of laughs and learnt so much. On arrival we were greeted so nicely in a warm and friendly environment by Kelly and her family, we felt at ease straight away. We knuckled down and cant fault her professionalism but it was done in such a relaxed manner with no time constraints, we both felt so relaxed and had all our questions answered in an in depth manner.
We both left there feeling so confident on the roads and have now changed our riding habits (including not covering the brakes) to make us better riders thanks to her knowledge and teaching ability.
Would urge anybody thinking of doing any biking test to contact Mantis

Brian Laming

Amazing personal experience

When first coming to mantis motorcyle school I was very mush shocked how personal the experience would be, being cared for with a cup of tea, food and a great family feel! The relaxed enviroment is exactly what is needed when learning to deal with a bike especially if youre not fully confident yourself, by being able to offer a variety of packages to suit everyones needs whether its your first time on a bike or a novice who needs advice on a few niggles mantis is number one by far you do not need a factory like school with no personal touch every again, mantis is amazing simple as

Harry edward Hardman

Couldnt of asked for better, Loved it!

Thank you very much for giving me the confidence and tuition needed to get though my DAS first time round.
Brilliant instructor and sutch a wonderful motorbike choice 🙂 absolutly loved it, couldnt of asked for better.
Genuinly feel more confident and aware on the road, just wish i had done it a few cbt's earlyer!
Thanks very muuuuuchhhhh!

Liam Vermonster

An Amazing Experience

Thank you so much for helping me pass both Mod 1 and Mod 2, I had a lot of fun and the training was top notch,
Thank you for being patient and assisting me, I could not recommend a better training centre,
100% Quality Teaching 🙂

William Gravenor

Perfect

Probably one of the best around if not the best. A very reasonable price for the high qaulity of training that you recieve. Not only that but Kelly is lovely and helped me to be more confident when riding. Finally i would highly reccomend Mantis to any biker of any level. Thanks Mantis ?

Joshua Grandini-Fenn

Excellent value and fantastic tution

Kelly is a great instructor. I felt at ease and confident while under instruction. I booked DAS which was exceptional value compared to other local schools... after 2 CBT's and no follow up from another school... Kelly got me sorted and on the road... Highly recommend AAA+++

Ryan Taylor-Casey

Outstanding

I did everything from my CBT to my DAS with Kelly and from the very beginning it was obvious she was an exceptional tutor. I have previously been a qualified driving instructor and so knew what to look for in a good instructor. Kelly exceeded my expectations at every step, continually giving me feedback and advice throughout. Thank you so much for all your help. Matt

Matt Berry

Amazing teacher couldn't have done it without her

I was nervous about my mod 1 and mod 2 training but Kelly put me at ease and taught me at my pace, ironed out all my problems and go me through my full test which I've been wanting to do for over 20 years.

Couldn't recommend mantis enough!

paul goodburn sr

Utterly amazing...

I really can't say enough about Kelly, Connor and everyone at Mantis and the fantastic experience I had there - freindly, knowledgeable, patient - they make you feel very welcome from the outset.

After having an utter disaster with a terrible London based training company my confidence was completely shattered - I literally couldn't even sit on a bike without shaking.
Mantis took the time to guide me through everything slowly at my own pace - Kelly and Connor had endless patience with me and after my first visit had me able to do some basic riding. After a further visit I managed to obtain my CBT, which was an utter miracle when you consider the state I was in when I started - it's a testament to just how good the training I recieved was.
All I can really say is that if you're interested in learning to ride then just go to Mantis - don't bother even considering another training company - you won't regret it.
I now have my own small bike and will be returning to Kelly for further training in the very near future - these are people that I'd like to consider my freinds and I think you will too.

Wolf Winter

Can't recommend Mantis enough!

I couldn't have picked a better place to go, I completed my CBT here and Kelly made it a great experience, brilliant instructor in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Thanks so much

Helen Johnson

Excellent, Informative, Personable, Tailored

I recently undertook DAS and now have a full license. Kelly Isherwood was my Instructor.

Kelly's knowledge, guidance and more importantly her personable approach made the course a great experience and well suited to my needs as an experienced rider and car driver.

With c100 miles being covered every day during my training, I was more than confident before taking either test.

Kelly and her family made us very welcome and they couldn't have been more helpful if they tried.

I was kind of upset that the course had come to an end as I really enjoyed the whole experience. However I genuinely consider Kelly and friend now and I look forward to buying my new bike and when she is free sometime going out for a ride with her.

I'll probably asked to be mic'd up though as her running commentary/ dialogue and observational skills made me smile every day and furthermore definitely improved my awareness.

Finally, thank you for all the food, hot and soft drinks and more importantly all you deep heat that I used when I started to experience cramp. If you are looking to just take your CBT or go through the whole DAS then do not go elsewhere. Mantis Motorcycling will most definitely take care of you.

Daniel McLean

Really good day taking my CBT with mantis

Kelly and Connor really know their stuff . Had a Great day taking my CBT. Hadn't been on a bike for 37 yrs and these guys where brilliant.Will be taking my full licence with Mantis. Highly Recommended

David Wellington

Fantastic day

Thank you to Kelly and Connor, I was abit worried about the manoeuvres but after a couple of hours with you both i felt very comfortable even though I hadn't ridden for over 10 years. Can't wait to come back for DAS. Thanks

Tom king

Thanks Kelly and Connor

I would love to say a big thanks to Kelly and Connor for the very nice and relaxed atmosphere very nice people definitely recommend to anybody who wants to do their cbt fantastic day THANKS EVER SO MUCH X

Paul

hard work but so worth it

Having ridden a 125 for a year, i had picked up some bad habits that were quickly erased, after spending the best part of a week riding for 5 hours every day. it was alot of hard work and i felt muscles hurting that i didn't even know i had. Kelly will whip you into shape and wont go easy on you but its totally worth it as it makes you ride alot better and safer.
All in all its not easy but it is very good laugh and alot of fun.

Andrew Foster

I don't pull my finger out for much... but this was worth it!

I had a fantastic experience with Kelly at Mantis and would recommend them (and do) to anyone and everyone who is thinking of jumping on two wheels! Kelly and the team are highly experienced with what must be well over 40 years riding experience between them!
My time under Kelly's wing was swift and easy, as she is a good teacher with a cool head and lots of patience for those with bad habits (as I had), or who have no experience at all. She is full of knowledge and is always up to date with the latest regulations and motorcycle safety. She can be firm and encouraging if it is necessary, though BE WARNED: This is not a sugar coated experience; if you do not take this training seriously, you will be beaten.
Before coming to Mantis, I had passed my A1 licence with a different school (who shall not be named, however they were awful). My time with Kelly ironed out some awful habits, which taught by the other school, were outright dangerous. I am so much more confident now, and feel safer on our roads after passing my A2 licence with Mantis! They trained me on a bike which wasn't a stone's throw from the bike I would be stepping onto at home, and their extensive knowledge meant that even when I had queries about my own bike, they had all the answers to hand!

Thankyou Kelly and thankyou Mantis for keeping myself and others on two wheels!

Callam Tiernan

Kelly changes peoples lives!

Hey this is the second time I taken a family member to mantis and met kelly and must say she has patients of a saint... my brother really put kelly to the test lol even with his disabilities she managed to get him through his cbt we were all so proud .... and again today when she passed my daughter thanks for ya help kelly it really does change people's lives xxx

Sam Hughes

Great Day At Mantis

Had a amazing day at Mantis today. Passed my cbt, the ride was brilliant I enjoyed every part of it. Will be back to do my full test hopefully soon. Very professional and helpful, can't thank you enough.

Matthew Bibby

Great Service

I passed my A2 back in 2014 with another school, I never covered aspects of everyday riding such as overtaking and filtering. I instead covered what I needed to know to pass my test (some of you may feel this is good but this is not a viable option for long term progression). As an in-experienced rider at the time I did not know any different and just assumed these “advanced” skills were something you learnt after you were let loose on the road. Following on from passing my A2 I took my ERS (Advanced Riding Qualification) with the same school that taught me and physically lost my confidence based on the short tempered, rudeness of the instructor who did not understand that I am not a conventional learner nor am I a quick learner. During my training session the instructor became more and more impatient me with me and ended up leading me through corners at speeds I could not sustain. I turned me from an in-experienced rider to a rider who lacked the confidence to try to improve based on how badly I was treated during my ERS.

This is where Mantis came to my rescue. I met Kelly through a friend who was enamoured with her training school and how they taught her son. It was suggested that I go and see her to rebuild my confidence in riding.

My first ride out with Kelly was in October 2015 straight away she managed to identify my riding issues based on how I struggled with corners. Together me and Kelly worked on a plan of action to improve my cornering and my riding as a whole. We started with understanding body position and centre of gravity on a bike and combined it with looking into corners. The easiest way to describe how I improved is that now I don’t scream every time I go into a corner, instead I understand how to approach, navigate and deal with any type of corner. It has enabled me to be a more relaxed rider with a consistent positive riding style.

When I got 2 years on my A2 I decided I wanted more power and a bigger bike to assist me in my work. I got in contact with Kelly and immediately she sprang into action and had me booked to do my Mod 1 within an hour of talking to her. Mantis unlike other schools also has multiple social channels to contact. If you don’t like talking on the phone they have Facebook and email services that you can contact them on.

The first thing Kelly did was get me to her training school for an assessment. At first I thought this was kind of funny, a rider who covers over 30,000 miles a year having to go for an assessment. When I actually started the assessment I discovered that I had picked up some bad habits and actually struggled with some of the Mod 1 manoeuvres. However, with Kelly this was no problem, within one evening session I was back up to par with all the manoeuvres and ready to take my Mod 1. The brilliant thing about Kelly as an instructor is that she can actually teach rather than follow a syllabus. As I previously stated I am not a quick learner, I struggle and get anxious easily. Kelly knew the techniques to appeal to my learning style and controlled my I cannot do this attitude and turned it into a positive I can do this attitude. This session also enabled me to get a feel for the training school and the bikes they provide. The training site is suitably sized for all manoeuvres and Mantis offer the option of going to the Mod 1 centre to practise the test for real. I had heard rumours that there were issues with the site and I can honestly say it was of brilliant quality and there were no issues at all. I wasn’t expecting much for a training school bike. My previous training bikes included a Kawasaki DT Tracker (I am 6ft 2 and this bike was not suitable for me), an ER5 with a bad brake and a few other bikes. At Mantis Kelly picked the best bike to suit my ability and riding style. I was placed on a Bandit 600. The mechanics there are top notch, the bike did not feel like a training school bike. It felt like a brand new machine!! There were no squeaks, no clunky noises and all the consumer able items were present and in pristine condition. This gave me additional confidence when using their bikes as I didn’t feel like I was going have mechanical failure.

When training with Kelly she treats you like family, not just a client. She is dedicated and actually has a passion for what she does. Kelly isn’t there to get you to pass, Kelly is there you get you to be the best rider you can be! This is why I believe Mantis is so popular now as it’s the only training school in Kent that has this mentality.

So Mod 1 test day (plot spoiler I actually failed due to nerves :O ) . Kelly got us to arrive at the training school early so we could practise the Mod 1 so we could be as ready as we could possibly be. Due to an incident with the other student I was placed on the Fazer 1000 (like what other training school has an awesome bike like that!). Kelly’s planning enabled me to become familiar and comfortable with this bike without any concern that I was new to it. We rode from the training school to the Herne Bay test centre via Canterbury. This was brilliant as it covered every type of road scenario and different traffic conditions. I was shocked that Kelly began to talk us through filtering in traffic as this was something my previous training school would not let us do. Kelly used positive reinforcement to iron out any bad habits or potential issues in our riding all the way down there. We arrived at the centre with no trepidation, we were calm and relaxed even after navigating Canterbury’s busy roads.

Due to an issue at the test centre we had out tests cancelled. Kelly, instead of giving up like the other instructor at the test centre did was straight onto the phone and booking us into another local test centre in Gillingham. A big thanks to the examiner Nigel for going to Gillingham to assess us.

After getting to the test centre in Gillingham I managed to fail my test due to panicking whilst breaking and locking the bike up. Totally my fault but Kelly was still there to explain how I should approach this in the future and re-iterated what she has taught me about the amount of breaking.

Second time lucky was the plan, again due to the conditions at Herne Bay our tests were cancelled. Kelly again managed to rebook us in Burgess Hill in West Sussex. Can you name one other school that would be willing to go that far to make sure their students could get a test? We again took a very scenic route to the centre (which was around 60 miles) and it was quite possibly one of the best rides on a motorcycle I have ever done! This time at the test centre we both passed (me with 0 minors). It is easy to say Kelly doesn’t go the extra mile she goes the extra 60 miles!!!!

Finally, on the day of our Mod 2 assessments we took a leisurely passed trip to Herne Bay where Kelly gave us her final pointers and reassurances about passing. After the first student went out I actually had an anxiety attack and Kelly was there to help calm me down. Instead of ignoring it or telling me to stop making a scene she talked me through my concerns managed to calm me down prior to taking my test. Finally, when my time had come I went out, performed a very strong ride and passed with 3 minors, 2 for hesitation and 1 for approach speed. All of which I noted during my assessment I was already making plans on how to improve on them next time.

So in summary, Mantis is not just a training school, Mantis is so much more, its where you can go to be the best rider you can possibly be. You have no limits there instead you have the best instruction possible to enable you to progressively improve. I can’t wait to come back and attempt my ERS again with Kelly rather than my old school.

On a personal note, thanks Kelly for helping me out. You have pretty much saved me from having a dangerous collision because of my lack of confidence in corners and you have encouraged me to attempt things that I never thought I could do, such as my first track day!!!

Connor Willer

Wicked day out!!!

I went into Mantis with no experience of any motorcycle use at all. The only thing i could think about before I turned up was how scared I was and was anxious as to what to expect.
All that was thrown out the window as soon as i met Kelly and her team!!! Such funny and kind people, really couldn't of made me feel any more confident if they tried. The training on the pad went great and was taught to me at a pace i could understand! As well as getting my CBT cert that day i also got a hearty bacon sarnie and lots of yummy tea!!! Would give highest marks!!!

Giovanni Arnone

A fantastic school that also cares

Mantis motorcycling school really do care not just for their own pass rate but also for their students. Always caring and going the extra mile to help all of them learn, I mean lets be fair I don't know any other training school that would go and purchase a new training bike just to cater one student, yes that's right Kelly and Roy sourced brought and serviced a bike to cater my short legs just to aid me to pass my DAS course. Now let's be fair do you know a school anywhere else that would do that? I'm pretty sure you don't! I can't thank Martin Kelly and Roy enough you guys really are amazing. I now have big girls bike and can't wait to show it off to Kelly, Roy and Martin. If you want a school that teaches you all you need to know and more this is the school for you, the fact that they care so much is just an added bonus to an already fantastic school.

Tarnya O'neill

Awsome school

Had such a great time with these guys everything made easy and fun to learn. Very friendly bunch. Highly recommend to everyone. I will be back for the advance course soon.

Lee bonner

These people love what they do and do what they love

I did my CBT for the second time with Kelly of Mantis. The first time was with another training company who unfortunately didn't instil me with the confidence to get on a bike. However, Mantis pride themselves on teaching at the individual's pace and learning style in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I could write an essay but to keep it succinct these are the reasons why I will be recommending Mantis to anyone wishing to get on a motorcycle…

• Cups of tea and bacon sandwiches and having a great Tech at hand for all our motoring needs… Thanks hugely Roy 
• Martin adjusting my clutch so I stopped changing gears like a wally (being polite here!)
• Kelly picking up on my visual learning style and teaching me in MY preferred learning style (there is no such thing as a bad student… only bad instructors and THIS Instructor is awesome!)
• Being paired with another student of similar learning stages which made the learning experience more fun
• Being encouraged to ‘feel’ and trust the machine rather than looking at dials (which can give false info)
• Getting constructive positive feedback on things I needed to improve on (I will be doing my lifesavers at Tesco in the isles Kelly... ha!)
• After I got the CBT I was introduced to motorcycle clubs, other riders, garages and suppliers… ALL of whom were fab and friendly people who knew Kelly personally
I can’t praise this company enough. The next day I went out and bought myself a 125cc runner and am looking forward to my DAS with Kelly and Martin. If you have any reservations about learning but want to get out on a bike, go with Mantis… you won’t regret it! These people love what they do and do what they love and it shows.

Suze Somerville

Thank You Very Much

Some People know how to train, some don't .
Mantis DO know how to train, My Instructor was friendly, assertive and did not put me under any extra stress. The training was very good and i was made to understand my mistakes and how to rectify them and to improve my riding. This helped me to achieve a pass for my Module 2 Practical test. In whole, Mantis are professional, very friendly and very nice people to train with. A big thank you. 🙂

Chris

Personal feeling with professional teaching

I went for a "free" taster (every other school charged) with a view to doing my DAS, I had searched many companies as I was was shedding out a lot of money. I turned up inexperienced and worried and in 2 hours of meeting Kelly Roy and martin I knew this was the school for me. I liked the feeling of being at home rather than a company out to take your cash! These guys have a true passion for riding and bikes and it truly reflects. Martin taught me for the week and explained how the bike worked so I had a full understanding of the machine I was using which made for a better rider, by the time I took my das test I felt I was a confident but safe rider which reflected with a pass... The tuition didn't stop here they took their time to congratulate me and discuss bikes they felt would suit myself, my size (being a biggish lad) and my riding style and requirements. I have purchased my first bike I collect tomorrow and look forward to taking to show the team. I have left with extra friends for life and I can not thank these guys enough and would be the first to recommend mantis... Try a taster with them what have you got to lose? You will certainly gain a lot from them

Matthew O'neill

I am so pleased I found you Kelly Isherwood, you are a star...

I honestly never thought I would be able to get back in a bike after my past experience, and you have shown me that not only I can get on a bike but also that I CAN do whatever I put my mind to and shown me that I have got the confidence to do it too. I cannot praise you enough, you are f***ing awesome (sorry for swearing), and I too now feel bloody awesome too and it's all thanks to you Kelly. Xx

Angi Budd

As for my personal experience of mantis they cannot do enough for you at a school

Jim is fantastic and great fun and loves a hi viz ,Martin is a fantastic instructor with great amounts of patience and skill (he trained me after all) and Kelly well she's a little bit bonkers but being a female rider in charge of two old biker men (I can say old as Jim just Brought a harley) she has to be. Makes the world's best bacon sarnie. If you haven't booked a cbt or bike training course do it now !!

Pete Pedro Anderson

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