 Start Your Motorcycling Adventure the Right Way
(ARA) - Start your motorcycle adventure the right way in May during
Motorcycle Awareness Month. It’s the perfect time to gain riding skills through
a special course designed to help those new to motorcycling feel comfortable on
two wheels.
Motorcycling is more popular than ever. According to the Motorcycle Industry
Council, the U.S. motorcycle market has experienced 11 consecutive years of
growth. In addition, the sport is attracting a wider range of riders who wish to
experience the unrivaled spirit of freedom that motorcycling provides.
As the only motorcycle manufacturer that offers a branded rider education
program in more than 30 states through its authorized dealerships,
Harley-Davidson has seen its Rider’s Edge New Rider Course grow in popularity
and has trained thousands of riders. Enrollees include a significant percentage
of women and younger people: women account for 41 percent of enrollees, and 33
percent are aged 18 to 34.
According to Dave Koenings, Harley-Davidson director of Rider’s Edge, the
course provides a welcoming atmosphere and an opportunity to network with others
who love the sport. “The course teaches skills that give new riders more
confidence and make the riding experience more enjoyable. Our instructors are
expertly trained and committed to the sport. Best of all, students get a
personal introduction to the riding experience, straight from the enthusiasts
who live it at Harley-Davidson and Buell,” he says. Those who enroll in the New
Rider Course gain more than riding skills. On successful completion of the
course, they receive a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Rider Course completion
card. Depending on the person’s state of residence, this card may exempt the
rider from having to take the written and/or riding portion of their motorcycle
test. Also, depending on the person’s insurance provider, the card may also
qualify the rider for a discount on motorcycle coverage.
Classes are presented in an experiential, interactive format that includes
both classroom instruction and experience on a controlled range. Instruction
starts slowly as the rider becomes familiar with the feel of the bike and then
kicks into gear with basic skills like braking, turning and other maneuvers such
as controlling skids and surmounting obstacles. Rider’s Edge participants learn
on the exciting Buell Blast, a lightweight, easy-to-handle motorcycle with a
rider-friendly design.
To enroll in the course, riders must have a valid automobile driver’s license
or learner’s permit, be able to ride a bicycle, and provide their own protective
riding gear, such as a helmet and footwear. Courses are typically scheduled over
several days, with instruction taking place at both a Harley-Davidson dealership
and on a controlled riding range near the dealership. Cost is determined by each
participating dealership and ranges from $195 to $350 and includes use of the
Buell Blast for class riding sessions.
Rider’s Edge, the Harley-Davidson Academy of Motorcycling, offers three
training courses: the New Rider Course, the Skilled Rider Course and the Group
Riding Course. For more information on courses throughout the country, please
visit www.ridersedge.com.
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle
manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and a complete line of motorcycle
parts, accessories and general merchandise. For more information, visit
Harley-Davidson's Web site at www.harley-davidson.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content | 
