Chicago - June 14, 2005

Drive Me Crazy

Stick-Shift Classes

Your best friend, Macho Matt, won’t fork over the keys to his new baby — a 3 Series with a six-speed transmission — because, he says,

a) You look so pretty in shotgun.
b) You drive stick like you throw.
c) You’ll burn out the clutch.

How about none of the above? Get in gear with manual-transmission classes at Motorcycle Riding School. In just three hours, owner Sarah Lahalih (who also heads up the female-only motorcycle driving classes) teaches you the nuts and bolts of stick-shift driving.

One-on-one sessions are given in a zippy, cherry red Mini Cooper and can be planned around your busy schedule — after work or on weekends. Plus, because you’re learning from a pro, no white-knuckled loved ones will be shouting “Shift up! Shift up!”

Instead, all your expert downshifting, hill starts, and cornering will convince even the most protective control freak that you’re more than capable of pimping his ride.

Because — if he wants to stoop that low — anything boys can do, girls can do better.

Motorcycle Riding School, 1400 North Halsted Street, between Division Street and North Avenue (773-968-7433 or motorcyclelearning.com).