Riding Academy™ | Riders Edge® | Big Barn Harley‑Davidson®

Great riders aren't born. They're made.

Learn to conquer the open road

Get excited for 2025 Registration.

If you’re ready to experience the unique thrill of riding your own motorcycle for the first time, there’s no better place to learn than the Harley-Davidson™ Riding Academy. Available only at Authorized H-D® Dealerships.

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What to expect

When you take a New Rider Course at the Riding Academy you’ll:

  • Learn to ride on a genuine Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.
  • Get in-class and on-range instruction from Motorcycle Safety Foundation® (MSF) and H-D® Certified Coaches.
  • Learn to safely accelerate, shift, brake, and turn, along with maneuvers like controlling skids and surmounting obstacles.
  • Earn an MSF Basic RiderCourseSM Completion Card, which may (varies by state) exempt you from the riding portion of your license exam and score you a discount on motorcycle insurance.

New rider course FAQs

What will I need to register?

You'll need a valid automobile driver's license or learner's permit, and have the ability to ride a bicycle.

Do I need any special gear?

You'll need to bring the following:

  • A heavy, long-sleeve shirt or jacket
  • Jeans, chaps, or leather pants
  • Over-the-ankle, sturdy footwear
  • Full-fingered gloves
  • A helmet that meets DOT requirements
  • Eyewear

The time is now. The place is here.

RIDER EDUCATION

STAY SAFE. STAY HAPPY

Rider Education is key to a safe and happy customer.

We go way beyond encouraging our customers to attend classes. We even provide incentives and host events catered specifically around Rider Education.

RIDER TIPS

  • One disadvantage motorcycles have compared to cars is that they're less visible. Taking steps to increase your visibility is an important step in managing your riding risk.
  • Black has long been a popular fashion choice among Harley® riders, but sometimes dark colors can be hard to see. If bright, highly visible clothing does not suit your taste, consider adding a few well-placed pieces of reflective tape to your gear, especially at night. Harley-Davidson® also offers apparel with reflective taping such as a conspicuity vest, rain gear, jackets, and caps.
  • Make sure your turn signals are working properly - and use them. In addition, consider using hand signals in situations where you want to make absolutely sure a driver knows your intentions.
  • If you want to make sure the driver behind you knows what you're up to, consider flashing your brake light as you prepare to stop.
  • Use your horn to help draw attention to yourself when necessary. But don't rely on it or overuse it.
  • Maintaining the proper lane position is a crucial part of an effective street strategy.
  • Maintain a space cushion on all sides of your motorcycle. This helps provide adequate reaction time if evasive maneuvers are necessary. It also helps create an "escape route."
  • In general, when riding alone on a straight road most people prefer to ride in the left third of the lane. It provides you the best line of sight for the road ahead, and makes you most visible to oncoming traffic. However, always be prepared to make adjustments based on road conditions and traffic patterns.
  • Always leave a minimum of two seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you. The ideal following distance will vary depending on road conditions and other factors.