Learn to Ride

HAVEN’T LEARNED TO RIDE YET? DON’T SWEAT IT. THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON RIDING ACADEMY NEW RIDER COURSE IS DESIGNED TO GET YOU COMFORTABLE ON A BIKE AND GIVE YOU THE SKILLS YOU NEED TO RIDE WITH CONFIDENCE.

COURSE OVERVIEW

We want to enable non-riders to experience motorcycling while learning the basic skills in a way that is fun and involving. Our Riding Academy New Rider Course Coaches are dedicated enthusiasts who have received certification from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Harley-Davidson and the State of Wisconsin. In addition, our Coaches are seasoned riders with years of road experience.

In the classroom, you’ll get to know the motorcycle you’ll be riding and learn the basics of rider safety skills. On the practice range, you’ll learn braking and turning, along with maneuvers like controlling skids and surmounting obstacles. When you’re finished you’ll get a completion card.

The Harley-Davidson Riding Academy Course is more personalized and in-depth than the state course. Our objective is to ensure riders are safe and confident on the road.

The cost of the course is $340, which includes the MSF online course fees ($19.99).

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Have the ability to ride a bicycle
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
Protective eye-wear

WHAT YOU’LL BE RIDING

You’ll be learning to ride on a HARLEY-DAVIDSON STREET 500. The Street is an excellent bike for beginners for 2 very good reasons…1) It is easy to ride and 2) We can change the seat to either a low or high seat to accommodate the height and build of the rider.

AFTER THE COURSE AND GETTING YOUR “M” ENDORSEMENT

After successful completion of the Appleton Harley-Davidson Riding Academy New Rider Course which includes a riding skills test (“Road Test”). Proceed to your nearest Department of Motor Vehicles site. A 25 question computerized State of WI test (“Written Test”) must also be taken at the DMV to receive your motorcycle “M” endorsement.

WHY Appleton Harley-Davidson?

We are committed to providing an exception “Learn to Ride” experience!

Receive a FREE T-shirt after you show us your newly earned “M” endorsement on your license
Mentors on-site to support you through your new riding journey
Our motorcycles are newer Harley-Davidson Street 500’s, which are inspected weekly
Affordable 1 on 1 training and retest options

QUESTIONS? ASK US!

Call us at 920-757-1651 or email RidingAcademy@appletonhd.com

F.A.Q.

What kind of riding gear will I need for the Riding Academy New Rider Course?

A properly fitted, DOT approved helmet
Eye protection, such as a face shield, sunglasses, goggles or glasses
Long sleeve shirt or jacket
Long pants, preferable jeans or leather
Sturdy, over-the-ankle boots
Full-fingered gloves
Rain gear is optional and recommended (we will ride in wet weather)

Can I purchase riding gear from Appleton Harley-Davidson?

Yes. While protective gear may be purchased anywhere, it must meet the minimum requirements as stated above.

How do I get the “M” endorsement on my driver’s license after successful completion of the course?

After successful completion of the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy New Rider Course which includes a riding skills test (“Road Test”). Proceed to your nearest Department of Motor Vehicles site. A computerized State of WI test (“Written Test”) must also be taken at the DMV to receive your motorcycle “M” endorsement.

My schedule can be unpredictable. Can I miss a class or a range session?

No. Class time and range sessions are tightly scheduled. You cannot miss any Range time or Classroom training.

What are the minimum requirements for passing the course?

To successfully complete the class, each rider must complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) E-Course (provided by Appleton Harley-Davidson), attend all classroom and range training and pass a Motorcycle Skills Evaluation.

If I don’t complete the course, can I take it again?

Yes. Student riders, at the discretion of the rider/coach and/or the Program Administrator, may be given an opportunity to take the Riding Academy New Rider Couse a second time for a lowered re-registration fee. (must re-schedule within 3 months of original class)

I don’t own a motorcycle. Does Appleton Harley-Davidson provide one for me to use?

Yes. Every student is assigned a Harley-Davidson Street 500 motorcycle by Harley-Davidson to use during the course.

Are class materials provided as well?

The Harley-Davidson Riding Academy New Rider Course is a multi-media program. It includes videos, classroom discussion, interactive study groups and related learning activities. Students are provided with a New Rider Course workbook, Motorcycle Safety Foundation brochures, and other learning tools.

Why must I know how to ride a bicycle to qualify for course enrollment?

Riding a motorcycle requires a sense of balance and coordination. Students who can ride a bicycle have demonstrated the minimum ability necessary to balance and coordinate a motorcycle.

How do I pay for the course?

Online, you may pay the course fee by credit card only.
In store you may pay the course fee by credit card, cash, gift card or check.

How do I know when Harley-Davidson Riding Academy Courses are available?

Click on the “sign up now” button. This will bring up all classes that are currently available at Appleton Harley-Davidson.

I haven’t ridden a motorcycle for several years. Does it make sense for me to take the Riding Academy New Rider course?

The Harley-Davidson Riding Academy New Rider Course is a research-based curriculum. It was developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and is taught by coaches who are certified by the MSF, State of Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program and Harley-Davidson Riding Academy. Experienced riders typically benefit from the course by strengthening skills necessary for straight-line riding, turning, braking, and shifting. In addition, many insurance companies offer discounts to riders who have completed the course.