There's a lot to be said for chasing the horizon in the saddle, with new riders often dreaming of a level of confidence that only comes from experience after finding the right Harley-Davidson for sale. This confidence isn't something you can rush or sidestep, nor is it something you can learn from a book or a YouTube video. It requires spending time behind the handlebars, but even that can be intimidating for a new rider that knows little about the joys of exploring the world on two wheels.
Harley-Davidson recognizes as much and offers a solution to level the playing field and give riders the tools they need to safely navigate the road at any skill level. That solution is the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy and motorcycle training that helps beginners and experienced riders alike. Even better, Republic Harley-Davidson offers these courses right here for riders in the Houston area.
Beginner Motorcycle Course
You're anxious to get in the saddle but don't know the first thing about motorcycles. The Harley-Davidson Beginner Motorcycle Course is the perfect starting point because it's designed to help you get comfortable around and on motorcycles. The first step to any ride is stepping over the bike and climbing in the saddle, but the Beginner Motorcycle Course goes even further with classroom lessons. The classroom section is vital because it walks you through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation curriculum, introducing you to motorcycle controls, the importance of proper riding gear, and riding etiquette.
After the classroom section, the course moves to real-world riding practice in a parking lot. Blocked off from traffic, this is a controlled environment where you can practice what you learned in the classroom and familiarize yourself with the bike. The first day of riding starts with the basics, like how to get on the motorcycle, start the engine, navigate it from one point to another, and turn off the engine. Then, as you master these skills, you'll learn the basics of how a manual transmission works, finding the sweet spot between the clutch, brakes, and throttle.
With each exercise building on the other, the second range day introduces more riding-related skills. By now, you will have a good handle on balancing the bike and shifting gears, so coaches will work on cornering, braking, and swerving at higher speeds. These activities are designed to build your confidence in the saddle, ultimately leading to the final evaluation, where you're tested on everything you've learned. If you pass the test, the Texas Department of Public Safety will waive their Motorcycle Drive Test, making it easier to obtain your motorcycle license.
What You'll Need
Once you are enrolled in the Beginner Motorcycle Course, we will contact you with more information about the course and the required items and gear. You'll need to set aside approximately three hours to complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic eCourse online before the first day of class. Once completed, you'll receive a certificate that you'll bring on the first day of class. You'll also need to bring your driver's license and dress appropriately for spending time in the saddle. This includes a motorcycle helmet, gloves, long pants, a long sleeve shirt or jacket, eye protection, and sturdy over-the-ankle boots.
