Young riders will get a chance to operate motorized two-wheelers, courtesy of a motorcycle dealership south of the Fraser.

For kids looking to dabble in off-road dirt biking, Langley's Western Power sports has something for you this weekend at Albion Fairgrounds.

During the Ridge Meadows Home Show, the new and used Yamaha and Triumph dealership in Langley hosts the Western Yamaha Riding Academy, giving novice mini bike riders between the ages of six and 12 the opportunity to motor their way along an enclosed course.

At least one parent or legal guardian will be required to sign a waiver and must be present during the training.

"It's been a tradition with Yamaha to get new riders involved, and give them the opportunity of learning how to ride with proper instruction," said Desi Evans, general manager and sales manager with Western Powersports.

Kids able to keep a two-wheeler upright can take part in free training, and then buzz around a track made up of soft grass, surrounded by hay bales.

Twenty minutes of training includes instruction by trained professionals on either a Yamaha TT-R50E or TT-R100.

The students are first fitted with protective gear - helmets, goggles, and gloves - provided by Western Powersports.

Next they go through orientation on the bike's controls and functions, balance checks, and a walk through on brakes and throttle instruction.

Then the students take their instructoraided first ride.

Pass this part and the next step is the unaided ride, with the instructor watching.

Evans will join the Western Yamaha Race Team and the Fraser Valley Dirt Riders and their instructors to provide the training.

"We really enjoy this: it's fun to see the expression on the kids' faces and the parents are surprised at the benefit of being introduced to this [training]," Evans said.

Evans said the training gives the young riders a new respect for motorcycles, a sense of stopping and starting, and "what can happen if you're not paying attention."

The "Dirt Biking 101" lessons are part of the Outdoor Lifestyle and Leisure Show, which was added to the home show last year.

The academy fits nicely with the outdoor element of the home show.

The outdoor show, sponsored by Marv Jones Honda, will give visitors the lowdown on cycling, kayaks, camping gear, tents, outdoor equipment, motorcycles, boats,

watercraft, recreational vehicles, toy haulers, electric bikes, landscaping, decks, outdoor furniture, barbecues and patio gear, fitness, paint ball, and auto gear.

Fitness demonstrations are also a part of the show and include Zumba classes, hosted by Liliana Knorr of Latin Flavors Fitness.

A mini RV show and longest drive competition is also scheduled.

One of Western Canada's largest home shows, the Ridge Meadows Home Show runs May 4 to 6.

The home show and its partner events are at Planet Ice and the Albion Fairgrounds, 23588 105th Ave.

The weekend includes more than 375 exhibitor booths as well as seminars and demos. People can take in the home show for $3 for individuals, and $6 for families.

Visit the event's website at www.ridgemeadowshomeshow.com.

tlandreville@mrtimes.com