WHO IS NATHAN RAFTER?
MOTORCYCLING SINCE 2022 • 3 NATIONAL CERTIFICATIONS • PACED 2 RACETRACKS
NATHAN'S RIDING EXPERIENCE
With years of diverse riding and track experience, Nathan is committed to continuously honing his skills, situational awareness, and safety strategies. He believes that the best motorcyclists always reach their destination safely. Riding more than 1,500 miles a month across streets, dirt trails, and racetracks, Nathan embodies this philosophy. Join him for a fun and rewarding session to unlock your full riding potential.
MOTORCYCLING CERTIFICATIONS & QUALIFICATIONS
What began with Nathan's motorcycle endorsement at Harley Davidson Riding Academy on Florida's Space Coast has evolved into extensive advanced training. He now holds 3 national certifications as a motorcycle instructor and aspiring racer. This progression highlights his commitment to motorcycle expertise and teaching excellence.
MOTORCYCLE ENDORSEMENT
August 2022
Arranged by his wife, a surprise motorcycle course at Harley-Davidson sparked Nathan's passion for riding, further fueled by the thrill of the throttle and the challenge of curves.
TRIKE ENDORSEMENT
February 2023
Nathan and his wife took a trike course together, the instructors quickly appointed Nathan as lead rider. Both earned their endorsements, and Nathan was invited to join the instructor program, which he excitedly accepted.
BEGINNER MOTORCYCLE SAFETY COURSE INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION
May 2023
Nathan shadowed experienced instructors, studied the curriculum thoroughly, and completed all preparatory work well in advance. He earned his national certification by passing a comprehensive written exam and a practical facilitation evaluation over a 7-day training course in Monticello, Florida.
INTERMEDIATE MOTORCYCLE SAFETY COURSE INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION
August 2023
This intermediate-level course is for endorsed riders wanting to improve handling and boost confidence on their motorcycle. Nathan earned his national certification by passing a detailed online exam.
HOMESTEAD MIAMI SPEEDWAY TRACK COURSE COMPLETION CERTIFICATE
November 2023
Nathan believes that the track course at Homestead Miami Speedway is excellent for both developing riders and aspiring racers. The program provides direct access to professional riders, whose insights and guidance can greatly enhance your skills and confidence on the track.
BEGINNER TRIKE SAFETY COURSE INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION
December 2023
The beginner trike program is an excellent starting point for riding three-wheeled motorcycles safely. Nathan completed a rigorous 7-day training course in Eustis, Florida, passed the exam and facilitation evaluation, and earned his national trike instructor certification.
JENNINGS GP TRACK COURSE COMPLETION CERTIFICATE
May 2024
From proper rider etiquette to refining race lines and competitive cornering techniques, the track course at Jennings GP provided Nathan with access to professional riders whose expert guidance enhanced his skills and confidence for improved track performance.
YAMAHA CHAMP U SCHOOL COURSE COMPLETION CERTIFICATE
June 2024
The Yamaha Champ U School offers detailed lessons on topics such as corner strategies, optimal body position, and trail braking from industry experts. This course helps riders like Nathan enhance their skills safely on street and racetrack.
WHEELS UP STUNT COURSE COMPLETION CERTIFICATE
August 2024
While he doesn't endorse performing wheelies, stoppies, or burnouts on public roadways, he recognizes the value of mastering these advanced techniques. Having full control over his motorcycle instills confidence for tackling any challenge the road presents. By practicing these skills in controlled and safe environments, he builds expertise for riding responsibly and reacting effectively in high-pressure situations.
TIMELINE OF TWO-WHEELED ADVENTURES
Nathan's thrilling motorcycling journey began in August 2022. From founding Level Up Moto to conquering the renowned Tail Of The Dragon with its 318 curves in just 11 miles, and pushing his limits at Homestead Miami Speedway, each mile has become a cherished memory. These moments and destinations make up his unforgettable experiences and remarkable two-wheeled adventures.
FOUNDED LEVEL UP MOTO
March 2023
Level Up Moto began as Nathan's passion project, offering high-quality motorcycle content in an accessible format. Over time, these resources evolved into detailed guides for riders, especially newcomers. Nathan also developed services to enhance riding techniques and safety skills on the road and racetrack.
HOMESTEAD MIAMI SPEEDWAY
November 2023
Nathan's first track day began with little sleep, a 4-hour ride to Miami, and a hectic check-in process. The sessions were intense, but midway through, he had a breakthrough. On 11/12/2023, riding a 2022 CFMOTO 700CL-X Sport in the novice group at Homestead Miami Speedway, Nathan set a personal best lap time of 2:29.091, just 49 seconds off race pace.
HOMESTEAD MIAMI SPEEDWAY
March 2024
On 3/3/2024, Nathan set a personal best lap time of 2:22.080 at Homestead Miami Speedway in the novice group, riding a 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. He was just 42 seconds off the race pace of 1:30.00. This time, Nathan was well-rested and better prepared both mentally and physically.
TAIL OF THE DRAGON
March 2024
The iconic stretch of US 129, nestled between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest, offers an unparalleled ride featuring 318 curves in just 11 miles. Nathan and the Level Up Moto team have braved this legendary route bringing along a Kawasaki Ninja 400, Kawasaki ZX-6R, and Yamaha MT-07. Taming the Tail Of The Dragon was an unforgettable adventure. It is a must-do destination for any skilled motorcyclist.
DEVIL'S TRIANGLE
March 2024
Deep in the Cumberland Plateau near Oak Ridge, The Devil's Triangle is one of Tennessee's most dangerous roads. This 44-mile stretch, starting near the abandoned Brushy Mountain Penitentiary, features treacherous curves, rock-strewn gullies, and steep cliffs. Overcoming these fierce challenges, Nathan returned from Hell with a smile.
BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY
March 2024
The Blue Ridge Parkway's thrilling curves and stunning mountain views attract crowds of motorcyclists each year. It's considered one of the best roads in the United States, and after riding its scenic stretches, Nathan wholeheartedly agrees.
DRACULA'S DRIVE
March 2024
Nathan took a stab at Dracula's Drive, an eerie mountain route in Transylvania, North Carolina. Known for its sharp hairpins and twisted switchbacks, this road is as perilous as a vampire's bite.
HOMESTEAD MIAMI SPEEDWAY
April 2024
On 4/21/24, Nathan set a personal best lap time of 2:07.050 at Homestead Miami Speedway in the intermediate group, riding his 2022 CFMOTO 700CL-X Sport. This time, he was over 15 seconds faster than his previous best. Nathan now holds the fastest lap time among the Level Up Moto team at this track and is just 27 seconds off race pace. His goal for the next visit is to achieve a lap time of under 2 minutes.
JENNINGS GP
May 2024
On 5/11/24, Nathan set a personal best lap time of 1:42.001 at Jennings GP, riding his 2021 Yamaha MT-09 in the intermediate group. Despite his unfamiliar with the track, he was just 22 seconds off race pace.
TAIL OF THE DRAGON
August 2024
The second ride on US 129 was even better than the first. Navigating the 318 intense curves through the Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest, Nathan and the Level Up Moto team tackled the 11 miles on a Yamaha MT-09, Kawasaki ZX-6R, and Yamaha R1. With improved skills and familiarity with the Tail of the Dragon, Nathan completed the entire run in 16:57.032.
DEVIL'S TRIANGLE
August 2024
Back to Hell Nathan goes for another ride through the Devil's Triangle in the elder mountains of Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Once again, he confronted 44 miles of twisted curves and deadly drop-offs that have claimed many souls. Despite all the fire and brimstone, Satan was no match for the Level Up Moto team.
NATHAN'S MOTORCYCLES
His riding experience spans a wide range of motorcycles, from cruisers like the Harley Davidson Sportster to beginner-friendly motorcycles like the Honda Grom and Kawasaki Ninja 400, and even high-performance racing machines like the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R and BMW S1000R. Here is a list of the motorcycles he has owned over the years.
2021 YAMAHA MT-09
After experiencing issues with the 2022 CFMOTO 700CL-X Sport, Nathan turned to the superior performance and reliability of the 2021 Yamaha MT-09. Known for its powerful 890cc triple-cylinder engine and premium features like a quick-shifter, race-tuned frame, and sporty suspension, it promised the ultimate ride. Unfortunately, this used motorcycle also came with problems, including ECU issues, complications with the aftermarket exhaust, and a cracked radiator from the dealership. It was returned to make room for something brand new.
2022 CFMOTO 700CL-X SPORT
Nathan initially viewed the 700CL-X Sport as a rare blend of cafe racer, scrambler toughness, and hot rod flair at an affordable price. Multiple critical system failures overshadowed promising features like the Brembo Stylema brakes and adjustable KYB suspension. These included an engine failure just before the Tail Of The Dragon trip, followed by a significant electrical system malfunction. Dissatisfied with its reliability, Nathan traded it in for his dream motorcycle.
2008 KAWASAKI VERSYS 650
Nathan's first motorcycle was a 2008 Kawasaki Versys 650, praised for its long-travel suspension and excellent touring features. He purchased it from a retiring rider who had meticulously maintained it, complete with service records dating back to 2008. While it was well-loved and fun, Nathan soon wanted a motorcycle with enhanced performance and sportier handling.
REVIEWS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Nathan has curated these reviews to give you an authentic glimpse into the valuable learning experiences motorcyclists have had under his guidance. He strives to inspire riders to seek professional training to develop their skills, safety strategies, and confidence on the street and racetrack.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I'm thrilled to share my incredible experience in the two-day motorcycle endorsement course! Each exercise was an absolute blast, all thanks to my amazing instructor, Nathan. His guidance was not just helpful; it was so fantastic that I'm eager to return for extra lessons. Nathan's patience and understanding towards everyone in the class made the entire learning process enjoyable. I wholeheartedly recommend these classes to anyone aspiring to ride motorcycles. It's an absolute must-try!"
— Aristotle C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I had a great time with Nathan as my coach. He made sure I had a fun time while being safe. If you struggle with directions, he is incredibly patient and will gladly explain and demonstrate the exercises to you until you understand how to do it. Couldn't have asked for a better coach to have taught me how to ride a motorcycle. Schedule a ride with this awesome guy!"
— Bryson G.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was an excellent instructor—very positive and patient while still incorporating and enforcing the immutable expectations for safety and traffic laws. My class had awful conditions with heat and humidity one day followed by constant rain the second day, and it was still a blast! If you want to learn motorcycling, look no further."
— Kiyoka N.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Before the first day, I had no idea how to operate a motorcycle. By the end of that first class, I could ride with no problem. Nathan was the best coach I could've gotten. Not only did I learn a lot, but I had a lot of fun with the class. We talked, joked, learned together—everything. Thanks for this amazing experience!"
— Amir M.
VIEW RECENT REVIEWS
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Amazing instructor, Nathan! He made the entire course both beneficial and fun. I absolutely loved learning from him, and I highly recommend SafeRide to anyone who wants to learn to ride a motorcycle!"
— Jordan P.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Class was awesome! My coach Nathan was amazing! He encouraged and assured me that I was in control. He really went above and beyond to help me get comfortable and familiar with the motorcycle's controls and many safety-related drills. I highly recommend giving motorcycling a try with Nathan!"
— Jose G.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Absolutely awesome! Nathan was my instructor. A very knowledgeable, kind, and helpful guy. He made sure I was safe and comfortable under this brutal weather. I learned a lot. Definitely a must-do for any rider. I highly recommend and thank him for an awesome ride."
— Roldof Z.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan is a great instructor who cares about the safety of each student and takes the time to teach everyone attending class. I would definitely recommend him."
— Rachel P.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was great! Very informative and made the experience pleasant for the entire ride. I would recommend him without hesitation!"
— Derrick J.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"What an awesome experience! Nathan was excellent at teaching. He made it so fun and safe. If you decide to go to his class, do not be nervous; you end up experiencing an awesome ride."
— Elvin R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I was a first-time rider, and my trainer was excellent in helping me through the learning process. I passed my evaluation, and Nathan was amazing. I recommend this course to get your endorsement, and pick a day when Nathan is working! So excited to get my motorcycle license!"
— Jose R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I just wrapped up the 2-day basic rider course with Nathan. It was a great experience! As an instructor, he was extremely courteous, professional, patient, and helpful in his teaching, guidance, and feedback on how to be a safe rider. I will continue to recommend his course to others. Thank you!"
— Arnaldo O.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan provided such positive support in helping me obtain my motorcycle license! His dedication to educating me was filled with laughter and enjoyment. He showed such passion. Would recommend him."
— Yasmeen B.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Had a great time learning how to ride a motorcycle at SafeRide. The instructor Nathan was fantastic and helped me go from zero riding experience to feeling confident on two wheels and receiving my motorcycle enforcement. Would highly recommend SafeRide and Nathan for learning how to ride a motorcycle."
— Marvelous A.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I just completed the Basic Rider Course at SafeRide in Melbourne. I had a great experience, even coming in with prior riding experience. Still managed to learn a couple of things and had an amazing time. Thanks, Nathan!"
— Isaiah V.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was a great coach! Calm, informative, and easy to talk to. Had an awesome time and learned a ton thanks to him. Highly recommend SafeRide."
— Christopher R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Pleasant and organized riding experience. Nathan is an awesome coach; he provided the necessary feedback to make me a successful rider. I had a lot of fun; the course was so enjoyable. Looking forward to signing up for the BRC2 course as well."
— Erika B.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was an excellent instructor. Couldn't have asked for better. He was very informative and articulated all of the lessons very well. 10/10 would recommend."
— Steven S.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was exceptionally skilled, knowledgeable, and very supportive. He made the class safe and learning was very easy. I had 0 experience with motorcycles, and he was patient and taught everything in a very easy-to-understand and comprehensive manner. If I had to take the class over again, I would only do it if Nathan were my instructor. He is truly the best. Thank you, Nathan!"
— Tiffany T.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I just acquired my motorcycle endorsement in Ocala with Nathan. He was an awesome teacher. He took his time and had patience with me. Very thorough in his teaching skills. Had a great time, thanks."
— David F.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Love the experience, I used to ride dirt bikes as a kid. Never thought I would have imagined getting my motorcycle endorsement. I thank Nathan for the best time. Great coach, he gave great advice on things that needed improvement. Still need to work on things. But, in all honesty, I would highly recommend him for your next ride!"
— Kyle L.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"New to riding and was very scared about my inexperience with vehicles other than a car. Nathan was a very good coach and helped me correct things I wasn't as good at! Passed with relative ease even though I was nervous."
— Asia S.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was an awesome instructor. Made the class very enjoyable and educational. I'll hopefully return to take the BRC2."
— Carlos L.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was the best instructor! I would highly recommend his class to anyone looking to start out on a motorcycle!"
— Madison P.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Took my 2-day BRC class here, and it was a lot of fun! Nathan was my instructor, and he did a fantastic job teaching me the basics, showing me how to improve, and was an overall great teacher. He didn't push me to do anything I wasn't comfortable with, and if mistakes were made, he showed me the proper way to fix them. If you plan on taking this class, I'd highly recommend this instructor!"
— Do H.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was very professional, knowledgeable, and explained the class very well. The obstacles were well-marked and easy to understand. He was very encouraging and friendly. As someone new to riding, he made it safe and fun."
— Vilma V.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Great information and coaching helped me get my endorsement and become a safer rider."
— Joe S.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"This was an absolutely fantastic class! I've never ridden before and felt so confident and comfortable by the end of Day One. Nathan was patient and an incredible teacher. I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone!"
— Janice T.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan did a great job. He kept instructions easy and simple to understand and follow. I would definitely recommend this class."
— Armando A.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was very helpful and professional. I enjoyed all the exercises and the genuine feedback from him and other riders. All in all, an amazing course."
— Mathew C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Took the weekend class with Nathan. Couldn't have had a better experience. Despite having some prior experience, I thought I would simply be going through the steps to get legal, but the course really helped enhance my skills. I thoroughly enjoyed the course from beginning to end."
— Matt W.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Had a super fun experience here! Despite having absolutely zero experience with motorcycles and feeling really nervous, I was still able to pass the riding test with a perfect score. Nathan did a great job at gradually building up all the skills needed. If you can, take the class with Nathan. He's awesome, super encouraging, and never makes you feel dumb for asking questions. For anyone unsure if they want to get into riding, definitely take this course!"
— Penelope S.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was an amazing instructor!"
— Lucas S.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Great motorcycle school! Nathan is an excellent coach. Highly recommended. Very professional and knowledgeable!"
— Liza M.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was very friendly and a good teacher!"
— Jalen L.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Excellent training! Nathan explained everything well throughout the entire class. I highly recommend him. Thanks for everything!"
— Arismir B.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was great. He had a lot of patience and knowledge to pass on. I would recommend him to anyone looking to get their motorcycle endorsement."
— Robert M.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Took the class this weekend with Nathan. His instruction was amazing for any level of rider. Very thorough, safety-oriented, and simply awesome! Highly recommend this particular class with this coach."
— Mike H.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"This was an amazing course to take. My instructor, Nathan, was extremely nice and great to learn from!"
— Joshua C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Had a great time learning from Nathan. He explained everything very well and provided great demonstrations."
— Lauri C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was an excellent coach. He was patient and professional. Would recommend him to everyone."
— Pedro G.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I attended the two-wheel motorcycle class with instructor Nathan. He was an excellent instructor, encouraging yet diligent in correcting any issues with our skills to ensure we became safe riders. The course ran smoothly and efficiently. I would definitely recommend it."
— Stephen F.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Amazing! I had Nathan as my instructor, and he was fantastic. Highly recommend SafeRide!"
— Chris M.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was an amazing instructor. He explained the fundamentals clearly and demonstrated all exercises in the curriculum. I highly recommend getting your endorsement and taking the course with him."
— Ramiro M.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan provided clear instructions throughout the course. He was helpful in explaining any mistakes we made and offering guidance on how to correct them. Additionally, he was friendly and thorough in explaining the process of obtaining the endorsement at the DMV."
— Srisailam J.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Very good course. Nathan explained everything very well. He's an excellent teacher. I don't regret it and highly recommend it!"
— Miguel R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan was a patient and knowledgeable teacher. I really enjoyed his class. Despite having zero experience, I was able to gain basic skills and safety knowledge thanks to Nathan."
— David G.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Awesome BRC experience with Nathan as the coach. It was both fun and educational."
— Mohanram B.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I had a fantastic weekend with Nathan. He was incredibly helpful and informative, guiding me through the basics and addressing any concerns I had about the course. His approach made me feel at ease, and I highly recommend him as a coach to anyone looking to learn how to ride motorcycles safely!"
— Phi N.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I had the pleasure of having Nathan as my instructor for the motorcycle endorsement course, and I must say, he was absolutely fantastic. Not only was he incredibly helpful and informative, but he was also very encouraging, providing excellent advice to improve our skills. I highly recommend him to anyone looking to enhance their riding abilities!"
— Daniel R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan is an awesome coach, very patient."
— Flavio V.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Me and my boyfriend took this class together and it was honestly the best decision. They were super helpful and made sure we were learning as much as we could but also having fun. I feel so much more confident on a motorcycle and I would recommend this class to anyone who wants to learn."
— Vanessa C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Great people here, Nathan and Ryan were my instructors and they were phenomenal. I feel much more prepared for my first ride after over 10 years!"
— Ryan C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I had a great experience at SafeRide in Sand Lake. The two teachers I had, Nathan and Ryan, are truly dedicated to teaching every technique needed to ride a motorcycle. I would recommend the place and the teachers to family and friends."
— Jose A.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Thank you for teaching me Nathan and Ryan, I have learned a lot within 2 days."
— Marvin R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan and Ryan are excellent! They are thorough, patient, and encouraging. So happy I had them to guide me through this process!"
— Shannon D.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan and Ryan were awesome. They give you a class so great that even I, who didn't have any experience, feel like I'm set up for success! Awesome work, guys!"
— Edwin C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"What a great class! I highly recommend Nathan and Ryan as awesome instructors. Whether you're riding dirty or just need a touch-up to remind you how to be safe, take the class."
— Dany L.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Incredibly fun way to improve at riding a motorcycle. Level Up Moto shared valuable safety skills for use on the road."
— Peter V.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan and Gary made my learning experience at SafeRide awesome. I 100% recommend coming here. The two-day course was seriously fun, and they both ensured that I learned while being safe. They genuinely care about your safety. I passed and can't wait to get on my motorcycle after getting my endorsement."
— Shawn M.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Nathan and Gary provided great instruction, upheld high standards, and instilled confidence in all riders. Highly recommend it."
— Julian P.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I'm a brand-new rider, and honestly, these past couple of days with Nathan and Stephanie have been great. They were super helpful and friendly. Nathan kept the class lively and funny, and it was great watching him ride the demos for the course. Stephanie had a fantastic personality and was very patient. She was super down-to-earth, and I liked her a lot. I definitely recommend the Sand Lake location."
— Abigail R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"I had a great experience working with Nathan and Stephanie. Their instructions were clear, and they were patient. They pointed out any issues and provided steps to correct them. The equipment was good, too. I would recommend them."
— Mario A.