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SIGNED UP FOR THE BASIC RIDING COURSE? READ THIS FIRST

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At Dallas Harley-Davidson® we recommend the classes provided by Go Motorcycle Training for everyone interested in learning to ride a motorcycle in Dallas. They offer courses for beginners who have never before been on a motorcycle and more advanced classes for Harley-Davidson® riders looking to hone their skills. The MSF Basic Rider Course is the one you should take to get your Motorcycle License in the State of Texas.

PRE-COURSE MOTORCYCLE TRAINING IN DALLAS

As of January 1, 2018, students are required to finish the online pre-course before the on-bike training starts. Dallas motorcycle training course providers email you a link once you've registered and paid for your course so you can complete the prerequisites at home on your own time. 

You must complete the course within 30 days of taking the class, so if you're an early bird when it comes to homework, make sure you will be able to attend hands-on training the same month you do the online work.

The eCourse gives you a checklist to help figure out if motorcycling is right for you. Here are a few of the topics it covers:

  • Motorcycle types
  • Motorcycle controls, indicators and equipment
  • How to prepare to ride
  • Basic riding strategies and common situations
  • Emergency basics
  • State and local laws

At the end you'll take a test, and if you pass the program will provide you with a certificate you print and take to your Dallas motorcycle training course.

RIDING BEFORE THE CLASS

That certificate isn't a motorcycle license. The eCourse provides great information, but you're not ready to jump on a bike yet. Resist the urge.

If you have access to a bike, sit on it and apply some of that new-found knowledge. Identify the controls and see how they operate. Stop by our Garland dealership and take a test ride on our JumpStart™ demo, where one of our experts will walk you through starting, shifting and revving the bike.

REQUIRED DALLAS RIDING GEAR

No matter what class you're taking, you'll need the following:

  • A long sleeve shirt. Bring a jacket if you have it, even if it's warm out.
  • Jeans or pants with no holes
  • Non-slip boots with ankle support
  • Eye protection -- Sunglasses are fine
  • A DOT approved helmet 
  • Gloves

If you don't have a helmet, Go Motorcycle Training has loaners. If you need anything else shop our Motorclothes® Merchandise and Riding Essentials. It's best to wear layers. When you're riding you'll be much cooler than you are when still, but the course involves a lot of both. You'll spend hours outdoors, so wear sunscreen on exposed skin and bring bottled water to stay hydrated.

OTHER DALLAS MOTORCYCLE TRAINING COURSE INFORMATION

Get there on time or you'll irritate the instructor and everyone who showed up when they were supposed to. It's a good idea to arrive well rested and ready to learn. You'll need to complete a liability waver and other paperwork before class starts, then the classroom coursework starts.

Once classroom work is complete, you'll move outside for hands-on training at the riding range. If you've never ridden before, be patient with yourself. It's like riding a bicycle, only completely different. There are two wheels and the balancing concept is similar, but a non-motorized bike doesn't weigh 600+ pounds and have the capability to reach more than a hundred miles per hour.

Your instructor will walk you through starting and stopping the engine, using a manually-operated clutch, identifying the friction zone and more. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you make mistakes, take a deep breath and find out how to correct them. You can do this.

If you crash, don't panic. You're not the first one who has done so. Ask your instructor what you did wrong and how you can avoid making the same mistake twice, then get back on the bike.

People only fail when they allow themselves to get frustrated and walk off the course, when they refuse to change bad habits or when they ride in ways that are unsafe. If you keep a willing attitude and practice until you get it right, your instructors will help you learn what you need to know.

Once you finish the course you'll still have to go to the DPS office to add your motorcycle license to your existing driver's license. After that you can start practicing your skills every chance you get. 

If you've signed up for the course or you're thinking of taking one and you don't have a bike, we can help. Stop by our Garland dealership to see new Harley-Davidson® motorcycles for sale or buy a used motorcycle.