Alaska Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy
F.A.Q.
What kind of riding gear will I need for the Riding Academy New Rider course?
You'll need:
- 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 Alaska 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 operator's license after successful completion of the course?
After successful completion of the Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy New Rider Course, including a riding skill test and a written knowledge test, you will receive a completion certificate card. Bring this certificate card to your nearest Department of motor Vehicles site for the endorsement. No further testing is required by the State. You may be required to take an eye exam.
My schedule can be unpredictable. Can I miss a class or a range session?
No. Class time and range sessions are tightly scheduled. If you miss a class or cannot be on time you will be asked to reschedule to a Riding Academy New Rider Course more convenient to your needs.
What are the minimum requirements for passing the course?
To successfully complete the class, each rider must attend all classroom and range sessions and pass a riding skill test and a written knowledge test.
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 Course 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 Alaska 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 classroom materials provided as well?
Alaska 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?
You may pay the course fee by credit card, cash, money order, or check at the Alaska Harley-Davidson® Service Desk.
How do I know when Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy courses are available?
Call Alaska Harley-Davidson® at any of our locations.
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 Course is a research-based curriculum. It was developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and is taught by certified MSF/Rider's Edge Rider/Coaches. 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. See the home page of the MSF website for additional information.