Ready to hit the open road on a Harley but don’t know the first thing about riding? Look no further. We’re diving deep into the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy, the go-to place for learning how to ride. And yes, we’ll talk dollars and cents.
Ever wondered if shelling out for riding academy is worth it? I’ll show you how a few hundred bucks can transform you from a complete newbie to a confident rider. Trust me, the road to riding is shorter than you think (and filled with a lot of stuff you never knew about – even if you’ve got previous riding experience).
“But what about gear? What do I need to bring on the first day?”
“Is this academy just another money-grab, or will I actually learn how to ride – and safely?”
“How do the courses compare to other training options like the DMV or local colleges?”
“Do I get a legal and insurance edge by taking this course?”
“What happens at the end of the course? Do I get a certificate or something else?”
Let’s dig in.
Overview of Harley-Davidson Riding Academy
Are you looking to learn how to ride a motorcycle? I was. I’ve been fascinated with motorcycles since I was a kid, and I’ve been wanting to learn how to ride the right way for forever.
I used to ride dirt bikes as a kid, but that was a long time ago, and I decided that it was time to pull trigger and commit to learning how to ride.
Even if you’ve got previous riding experience (1/3 of the people in my class were experienced riders), you should look no further than the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy. This academy offers motorcycle training courses that are designed to get you comfortable on a bike and give you the skills you need to hit the open road. In this section, we’ll give you an overview of what you can expect from the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy, including course structure, course duration, and cost and inclusions.
Course Structure
I took my class at the Harley-Davidson dealership in Tallahassee, FL and it was outstanding.
The Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course is designed to teach you everything you need to know about riding a motorcycle. You learn everything from the different parts of the bike itself, to issues that only riders face when riding (as opposed to car drivers), and everything in between.
The course is broken down into three main parts: classroom instruction, range practice, and a final skills test. During the classroom instruction portion of the course, which for us was on a Friday night from 6-9pm, you’ll learn the basics and get familiar with the structural aspects of a motorcycle, including the controls, how to shift gears, and how to brake. You’ll also learn about safety gear and how to properly wear it, and riding strategies in all kinds of different conditions.
After spending the previous night laying the groundwork, the next day (bright and early starting at 7:30am, at least for us!) you’ll move on to range practice, where you’ll get hands-on experience with a motorcycle. And it’s not just any motorcycle either – you actually learn on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle – the Street 500 – outfitted specifically for teaching this course.
You’ll practice starting and stopping, turning, and maneuvering around obstacles. This is a great opportunity to get comfortable with the bike and build your confidence.
Finally, you’ll move on to the skills test where you’re tested on everything you’ve been taught over the entirety of the course, and it’s not a joke – you really have to know your stuff before they’ll pass you.
Don Sr. was our primary instructor and we knew him as “the Captain.” With a wealth of riding experience, his teaching style is second to none, making even the most complex techniques understandable for newcomers. Don Jr. follows suit, with a flair for clear communication on the road tasks we had to go through to make the complex tasks comprehensible. And then there’s T, whose on-the-bike demonstrations are so crisp, so professional – she should be the one doing the demo videos. When these three are your instructors, you’re not just learning to ride—you’re mastering the craft.
Course Duration
The Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course was integrated with the MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) Basic Riding Course, and at least at my local dealership, and took us 3 days to complete. The exact duration of the course may vary depending on the location and the number of students in the class. The course was well-structured and provided ample time for both classroom instruction and hands-on practice.
Cost and Inclusions
The cost of the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy can course vary depending on the location and the specific course you choose. In general, you can expect to pay between $300 and $500 for the course. This fee typically includes the use of a motorcycle (an authentic Harley at that!) and safety gear during the course, as well as classroom instruction and on-road riding.
As a side note, you’ll want to have your own gear – it just makes sense. Do you want to wear a helmet that’s been on someone else’s head? Not me. You’ll also need riding gloves, full-length pants, boots that cover over your ankles and at the very least a long sleeve shirt, because, as you’ll learn in the course, you need to be wearing “all the gear all the time”.
The Harley-Davidson Riding Academy is a great option for anyone looking to learn the basics of how to ride a motorcycle. The course is well-structured and provides lots of opportunities for hands-on practice. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience riding, the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy can help you build your skills and confidence on a motorcycle.
Prerequisite Online Course Work
For our class, we had to take a pre-course online course that took every bit of at least 3 hours of instruction that was intense! This isn’t one of those online things were you can fake your way through it – you have to pay attention every step of the way and pass quizzes at numerous points throughout the e-course. Not only that, but there’s a final test that you have to pass too.
The online course work is delivered via MSF’s online portal and covers everything you’ll need to know for your upcoming weekend of training – from the very basics, to how to negotiate turns, deal with different traffic situations, and everything in between.
First Day of the Academy
So it’s the first day and you’re excited for your first day of the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy, but also maybe a little nervous. You should be (excited – nervous, not so much)! This is the start of a thrilling journey that will take you on the open road with the wind in your hair and the roar of the engine beneath you. But before you can hit the road, you’ll need to get through your first day of class. Here’s what you can expect.
Initial Paperwork Session
The first thing you’ll do when you arrive at the dealership is attend an initial paperwork session. This is where you’ll sign all the necessary forms and waivers, and get your Riding Academy handbook. Don’t worry if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all the paperwork – the staff will be there to help you every step of the way.
In my experience, this session is also a great opportunity to meet your fellow students. You’re all there for the same reason, so take the time to introduce yourself and make some new friends.
Tour of the Dealership
After the paperwork session, you’ll take a tour of the dealership. This is a chance to get familiar with the facilities, including the classroom, the bikes, and the gear. You’ll also get a chance to see some of the other bikes that Harley-Davidson has to offer.
Review of the E-course
Before you hit the road, you’ll need to complete an online eCourse. This course covers the basics of motorcycle safety, including how to handle the bike, how to avoid accidents, and how to stay safe on the road. During your first day of class, you’ll review the eCourse with your instructor to make sure you understand all the important concepts.
Introduction to Motorcycle Controls
During your first day of class, you’ll get an introduction to the motorcycle controls. This includes everything from the throttle and brakes to the clutch and gears. You’ll also learn how to start the bike and make sure it’s in good working order.
By the end of your first day of class, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident and skilled rider. Remember to pay attention to your instructor, ask questions if you’re unsure about anything, and most importantly, have fun!
By the way – the first day is just classroom stuff. At least that’s the way it was for us. It was held from 6pm to 9pm at our local Harley dealership. No road course stuff on day 1.
Main Points:
- Initial paperwork session is where you’ll sign forms and meet fellow students
- Take a tour of the dealership to get familiar with the facilities and bikes
- Review the eCourse to ensure you understand motorcycle safety basics
- Introduction to motorcycle controls covers everything from throttle to gears
Classroom Sessions
The classroom sessions at the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy are an essential part of your training, and they cover everything from class paperwork to the MSF Basic eCourse. In this section, we’ll go over what you can expect during your classroom sessions, including the first meeting, afternoon session, and last meeting.
First Classroom Meeting
Your first classroom meeting is the perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow riders and your instructors. You’ll start by filling out some class paperwork, including a waiver and a rider information form. After that, your instructor will go over the basics of what you’ll be learning during your training, including new material that you’ll be covering in the coming days.
You’ll also learn about the level of riding experience of those in your class. We had people who were complete beginners to seasoned riders who wanted to get their motorcycle endorsement for their license, and to dig deeper on their skill level.
One of the most important aspects of your first classroom meeting is learning about the important aspects of riding gear. Your instructor will go over the different types of gear you’ll need to wear while riding, including helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots. They’ll also explain why each piece of gear is important and how it can help protect you while you’re on the road.
During the in-class session you’ll also review the MSF Basic eCourse, which is an online course that covers the basics of riding a motorcycle. Your instructor will go over the important points of the eCourse, including how to handle different riding situations and how to stay safe while on the road.
This is a great opportunity to ask questions and get more information about the material you’re learning. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask your instructor for clarification if there’s something you don’t understand.
Range Days
Now you’re ready to hit the range and put your riding skills to the test. Range days at Harley-Davidson Riding Academy are an exciting opportunity to hone your skills and experience the thrill of the ride in a controlled environment. In this section, we’ll cover what to expect on your first and second range days, as well as the importance of practice lot sessions.
First Range Day
Time to get your gear on and get on your bike! Your first range day is an exhilarating experience that sets the foundation for the rest of your riding journey. During this session, you’ll learn the basics of starting and stopping your motorcycle, as well as how to shift gears and use your brakes effectively. You’ll also get familiar with the range layout and the range rules that ensure everyone’s safety.
It’s important to pay close attention to your coach’s instructions and ask questions if you’re unsure about anything. Remember, this is a learning experience, and your coach is there to help you become the best rider you can be. By the end of your first range day, you’ll be amazed at how much more you feel confident and prepared to tackle the challenges ahead.
Second Range Day
Your second range day builds on the skills you learned on your first day and introduces new techniques to help you navigate more complex riding scenarios. You’ll practice cornering, swerving, and emergency braking, all while gaining a deeper understanding of how your motorcycle handles in different situations.
During this session, it’s important to focus on your body position and use the techniques you learned on your first range day to control your motorcycle. Don’t be afraid to push yourself outside of your comfort zone, but always remember to ride within your limits and follow the range rules.
This is also the day you do your road test. And just like every other part of the course, it’s serious business. You’re not going to pass just because you show up. Your instructors and coaches want to see how you do performing all the stuff they spent the last two days teaching you how to do.
All this work on the range (for us it was an empty lot at a local mall) prepares you and helps you to refine your skills and build muscle memory. These sessions give you the opportunity to practice the techniques you learned on your range days in a low-pressure environment.
In my experience, practice lot sessions are a great way to build confidence and improve your riding skills, working on your body position, braking, and cornering techniques. Remember, the more you practice, the better rider you’ll become.
Range days on the practice lot are crucial components of your Harley-Davidson Riding Academy experience. By listening to your coach’s instructions (and trusting that they know what they’re talking about), you’ll start developing the skills and confidence you need to become a safe and skilled rider.
Riding Skills and Exercises
Let’s talk a little more about the fundamentals of motorcycle riding covering the key skills and exercises that you’ll need to master to become a confident and safe rider.
Fundamentals of Clutching
“Friction zone”. “Find your friction zone”. I heard that phrase a thousand times during our class. Don even pointed out how when you master control of the clutch you can use it to control your acceleration and speed to a really high degree. It confused me at first, but when we started working on the technique it became crystal clear.
The clutch is one of the most important components of a motorcycle, and learning how to use it correctly is essential for safe riding. In the Riding Academy, you’ll learn how to use the clutch to shift gears smoothly and control your speed. You’ll also learn how to start and stop the motorcycle smoothly and safely.
Key points to remember:
- When shifting gears, you have to use the clutch to disengage the engine from the transmission.
- Release the clutch slowly and smoothly to engage the engine and transmission.
- When stopping, use the clutch to disengage the engine from the transmission and apply the brakes gently.
Hand Signals
Effective communication is essential when riding in a group or on the road. In the Riding Academy, you’ll learn the standard hand signals used by riders to communicate with each other and with other drivers on the road.
Key points to remember:
- Always use hand signals when riding in a group or on the road.
- Use a clear and distinct motion to signal your intentions.
- Practice using hand signals until they become second nature.
Path of Travel
Understanding the path of travel is essential for safe and effective motorcycle riding. In the Riding Academy, you’ll learn how to identify potential hazards and choose the safest path of travel.
Key points to remember:
- Always scan the road ahead for potential hazards.
- Choose the safest path of travel to avoid hazards.
- Practice identifying potential hazards and choosing the safest path of travel.
Maximum Braking
Effective braking is essential for safe motorcycle riding. In the Riding Academy, you’ll learn how to use both the front and rear brakes to stop quickly and safely.
Key points to remember:
- Always use both the front and rear brakes when stopping.
- Apply the brakes smoothly and progressively.
- Practice emergency stopping until it becomes second nature.
In my experience, mastering these skills and exercises is critical to becoming a safe and confident motorcycle rider. With the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy, you’ll get the training and practice you need to become a skilled and competent rider. So what are you waiting for? Sign up for the Riding Academy today and start your journey to becoming a skilled and confident motorcycle rider!
Motorcycle Gear
When it comes to riding a motorcycle, one of the most important things you can do is protect yourself with the right gear. The most important piece of motorcycle gear you’ll need is a helmet. In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know about motorcycle helmets, including the different types, how to properly fit a helmet, and why good protection is so crucial.
Types of Helmets
There are three main types of motorcycle helmets: full-face helmets, open-face helmets, and half helmets. Full-face helmets are the safest option because they provide the most protection for your head and face. Open-face helmets are a good option for riders who want a little more freedom and visibility, but they don’t provide as much protection. Half helmets are the least protective option and should only be used for short rides.
Proper Helmet Fit
One of the most important things to consider when buying a helmet is how it fits. A helmet that doesn’t fit properly won’t provide adequate protection in the event of an accident. When trying on helmets, make sure they fit snugly but not too tight. You should also check the helmet’s padding and straps to make sure they’re comfortable and secure.
Importance of Good Protection
Wearing a helmet is the law in most states, but even if it wasn’t, it’s still a good idea to wear one. Helmets can protect your head and face from serious injuries in the event of an accident. Good protection is especially important if you’re a beginner rider or if you’re riding in dangerous conditions. In my experience, wearing a helmet has saved me from serious injury on more than one occasion.
Remember, when it comes to motorcycle gear, your helmet is the most important piece of equipment you’ll need. Make sure you choose the right type of helmet, get a proper fit, and prioritize good protection.
End of Course Review and Evaluation
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course! You’ve learned so much over the past two days, and it’s time to put that knowledge to the test. The end of the course is where you’ll review what you’ve learned, complete evaluation exercises, and receive your completion certificate.
Review of Learned Material
Before you begin the evaluation exercises, you’ll review all the material you’ve learned over the past two days. This review is essential to ensure that you’re ready to take on the evaluation exercises and that you have a solid understanding of all the material covered in the course.
During this review, you’ll go over everything from basic motorcycle controls to more advanced techniques, such as cornering and braking. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any final questions you may have before moving on to the evaluation exercises.
Evaluation Exercises
The evaluation exercises are designed to test your knowledge and skills and ensure that you’re ready to safely ride a motorcycle on your own. These exercises will be conducted on a closed course, and you’ll be evaluated on your ability to perform various maneuvers, such as turning and braking.
In my experience, the evaluation exercises are challenging but fair. They’re designed to ensure that you have a solid understanding of all the material covered in the course and that you’re ready to ride a motorcycle safely on your own.
Completion Certificate
If you successfully complete the evaluation exercises, you’ll receive a completion certificate. This certificate is proof that you’ve completed the course and that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely ride a motorcycle on your own.
The completion certificate is a great achievement and something to be proud of. It’s also an essential document if you plan on obtaining a motorcycle license or insurance.
The end of the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course is an exciting time. It’s where you’ll review all the material you’ve learned, complete evaluation exercises, and receive your completion certificate. By the end of the second day, you’ll have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely ride a motorcycle on your own.
Post-Course Procedures
Congratulations! You’ve completed the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course and are now ready to hit the open road on your motorcycle. But before you do, there are a few post-course procedures you should be aware of.
DMV Procedures
Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll receive a completion document. This document proves that you’ve completed the necessary training and can be presented to your state DMV as proof of your completed motorcycle training. You’ll need to take this document to your local DMV to obtain your motorcycle endorsement.
License Waiver
In some states, completing the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course may qualify you for an endorsement waiver. This means that you won’t need to take the DMV’s motorcycle skills test to obtain your endorsement. Instead, you’ll simply need to present your completion document to the DMV to receive your endorsement.
That’s the way it was with our course here in Florida. All I had to do was show my completion card at the DMV, and it was as good as done. Well, that, and paying the fee.
Additional Opportunities
Completing the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course opens up a world of opportunities for you as a motorcyclist.
One thing to keep in mind that this is just the basic riding course. You’ll be ready to ride when you’re done with the course, but you’ll still need practice. So practice. A lot. In a safe place.
There are also more advanced riding courses available too. Don Sr. pointed out during our class that there are all kinds of courses he teaches – this is just the beginning. And just like most other courses, this is just the tip of the ice berg.
You’ll be able to participate in group rides, charity events, and other motorcycle-related activities. You’ll also have access to advanced rider training courses, which can help you improve your skills and become a safer rider.
In my experience, the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course is an excellent way to learn how to ride a motorcycle safely and confidently. By completing the course, you’ll not only gain the skills you need to ride a motorcycle, but you’ll also have access to a variety of resources and opportunities that can help you become a better rider.
So, don’t sleep on this course – this is good stuff. Sign up for the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy course today and start your journey as a motorcyclist!