Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy
Whether you’re just getting started or just brushing up, learn the skills you need to ride with confidence. We’ve helped over a million riders achieve their dreams, let us help you too.
Learn to ride and get licensed!
We are part of the California Motorcyclist Safety Program and we are certified to teach the CMSP Motorcyclist Training Course (MTC). The MTC is mandatory for those under the age of 21, but is also recommended to those 21 and older who are seeking to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their California driver license. The Motorcyclist Training Course is designed for the novice rider with no (or limited) street-riding experience. A typical class schedule consists of 5 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of riding practice. During this motorcycle riding course, you will learn fundamental skills required to operate the motorcycle and progress to street riding skills and strategies. Even though the Motorcyclist Training Course was designed with new riders in mind, most experienced riders that have taken the course have reported improving their riding skills considerably with it!
Topics covered include managing fear, understanding how motorcycles turn, proper cornering strategies, and emergency crash avoidance skills. The course is based on the most current research in rider safety and utilizes modern training methods.
Completion of our course may waive the DMV riding skills test
Upon successful completion of the Motorcyclist Training Course, you will receive a DMV riding test waiver. There are written and riding evaluations after the course to ensure you have competence in the material covered in the basic course—you must pass both evaluations to graduate. Per California regulations, you will still need to complete the DMV written test.
$425 for 21 and older
$395 for under 21
IMPORTANT: Do not enroll in this class if you are not able to balance and comfortably ride a two-wheeled bicycle.
What to Expect
Learn to ride and get licensed on a genuine Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.
- Instructors certified by California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) and H-D® Riding Academy
- During this motorcycle riding course, you will learn fundamental skills required to operate the motorcycle and progress to street riding skills and strategies.
- Earn a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DMV DL 389)
Embark on Your Riding Journey with Confidence at the Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy - Now Available at San Diego Harley-Davidson®
Have you ever dreamed of hitting the open road on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, feeling the wind in your hair and the thrill of the ride? The Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy, offered at San Diego Harley-Davidson®, is your gateway to turning that dream into reality. Our comprehensive training course is designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to embark on a lifelong journey of freedom on two wheels.
Learn from the Best:
At San Diego Harley-Davidson®, we understand that becoming a confident and skilled rider starts with quality education. That is why our Rider Academy works with the California Motorcyclist Safety Program, ensuring that you receive instruction from professionals who are not only passionate about riding but are also experts in teaching the art of motorcycling. Benefit from their wealth of experience and knowledge as they guide you through every step of your learning journey.
Comprehensive Classroom and Riding Sessions:
The Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy at San Diego Harley-Davidson® combines classroom sessions with practical riding exercises to provide a well-rounded learning experience. Our curriculum covers everything from motorcycle controls and basic maneuvers to defensive riding strategies and group riding etiquette. You'll gain a deep understanding of the principles of motorcycling, equipping you with the skills to confidently handle a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.
Comfortable Learning Environment:
Our state-of-the-art training facility in San Diego provides a comfortable and supportive environment for learning. From well-equipped classrooms to spacious riding areas, we've created a setting that fosters a positive and engaging learning experience. Whether you're a complete novice or someone looking to enhance your existing riding skills, our Riding Academy is tailored to meet your needs.
Top-of-the-Line Harley-Davidson® Motorcycles:
Experience the thrill of learning to ride on top-of-the-line Harley-Davidson® motorcycles provided by San Diego Harley-Davidson®. Our fleet of well-maintained bikes ensures that you train on the same iconic machines that have defined the Harley-Davidson® legacy. This hands-on experience allows you to familiarize yourself with the power, handling, and style of these legendary motorcycles.
Convenient Morena Blvd Location that serves the greater San Diego area:
Situated in San Diego, California, our dealership is easily accessible for residents of San Diego, and the surrounding areas. Whether you're a local enthusiast or traveling from nearby cities, our Riding Academy is conveniently located to accommodate riders from various communities.
Gear Up with Confidence:
The Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy not only equips you with riding skills but also introduces you to the importance of proper riding gear. Learn about essential safety gear, including helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots, and discover how the right gear enhances your riding experience and protects you on the road.
Book Your Spot Today:
Ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime? Book your spot in the Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy at San Diego Harley-Davidson®. Whether you're a first-time rider or looking to refine your skills, our training course is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to hit the road on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. Your adventure begins with the Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy. Enroll today and let the freedom of the open road become your reality!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
CMSP requires a long-sleeve shirt or jacket, sturdy long pants without rips or holes, full fingered street-specific motorcycle or leather gloves (we have loaner gloves if you need them), tough, over-the-ankle shoes or boots and eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, face shield, etc). We can provide a helmet, but if you bring your own, it must be three-quarter, full face or modular and DOT approved.
A government issued Photo ID (CA ID Card, Drivers License, Passport) and the ability to ride a bicycle.
Students will ride Harley-Davidson X-350 model motorcycles for this class. The motorcycles have been slightly modified for a better training experience.
The classroom portion of the Riding Academy is in person at San Diego Harley Davidson. The Riding "Range" is right outside the dealership.
If you need any help enrolling through the online process please email us at [email protected] or text us at (858) 275-2741
No. To enroll in the class, you only need a valid driver's license, DMV issued ID card or other ID issued by a government agency.
You may use your own motorcycle in the class, but it must meet two of three criteria set by the state program: 525cc or less, 425 lbs or less, and a seat height of 32" or less. Your motorcycle will be inspected for approval and you must also show proper registration and insurance documents.
No. You must first attend all classroom and riding sessions and successfully complete a written test and skill test to pass. We will do our best to help you develop your skills but not all students are successful.
Your Instructors can help you make the decision to return for more practice. Sometimes students just need more time to increase their skill level by repeating a portion of the class. In other cases, people decide that riding is not for them. Either way you will have gained the knowledge of what it takes to become a motorcyclist.
You must complete the entire class to pass it. If you miss a part, it is your responsibility to make up the rest on stand-by. You may be allowed to return if space is available, but you cannot get a second reserved spot. You may also be subject to reschedule fees and restrictions depending on how much notice you give. The decision to allow students to return on a standby basis is made by the administration.
Course Policies
Safety First
Safety is our number one priority. The Motorcyclist Training Course (MTC) is designed to provide an enjoyable learning experience for all students.
Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner. We have a ZERO tolerance policy for alcohol and other drugs. Students who fail to respond to coaching or intentionally interfere with other students learning may be asked to leave.
Site Policies
All attendees must be pre-registered and pre-paid to secure their place in class. This is your only reserved seat.
Refunds and Rescheduling
Refunds
There are no refunds for this course.
Payment of additional fees
All fees mentioned below must be paid before any status change occurs. Proof of payment via receipt must be presented to an Instructor before class begins.
Rescheduling
In the event that you need to reschedule, please contact us ASAP at [email protected] or (858) 275-2741. A rescheduling fee may be assessed.
Attendance and Late Attendees
You must attend ALL class sessions on time and in the order in which they are offered. You cannot continue to the next class session if you do not attend or successfully complete the previous class session. If you are late or fail to show up for any portion of the course, you will be dropped from the course. To return to complete in another course you may return as a standby. Please reach out to [email protected] or (858) 275-2741 in order to assess your best plan for returning and completing the course.
Failure to Complete
Your Instructors are required to ensure the safety of all students. Unsafe conditions cannot be tolerated. Instructors may drop any student who, in their opinion, presents a safety hazard to themselves or to others, or who repeatedly fails to respond to instructions. Refunds will not be given to a student who is dropped or self-drops from a course. There is no guarantee of successful completion. Students dropped from their course may repeat as a stand by. Please reach out to [email protected] or (858) 275-2741 in order to assess your best plan for returning and completing the course.
IMPORTANT: Any potential student who possesses a license that has been restricted due to one or more convictions for driving while impaired may not participate in any CMSP classes until all restrictions to the license have been lifted.