I took the basic rider course here and earned my motorcycle endorsement.
The instructors weren't intimidating whatsoever and did an excellent job of teaching complete newbies.
They explain every course, give a demo, then make sure everyone understands before the students are expected to preform the task.
There is absolutely no discrimination (for the ladies nervous about taking this course), so put your big boy pants on, you will be treated as an equal.
This class was also the least expensive course I was able to find in the Valley. My boyfriend paid $150 more elsewhere.
Sign up as early as possible to take a course correlating to weather conditions. I signed up a few days before the class started (in mid August), and was forced to take the afternoon class in 120 degree weather, because the morning course filled up so quickly. Two people left due to heat exhaustion. It was intense, but so worth it.
You will meet some rad people and have a lot of fun (if you aren't a complete idiot). Definitely recommend.