Black Gold Harley-Davidson® near Dallas is hosting a Woman's Riding Workshop on Saturday, January 19, 2019. If you're curious about motorcycling but not sure where to start, this event is for you. We'll answer these questions and more.
I'M NERVOUS ABOUT GETTING STARTED. WILL EVERYONE ELSE IN THE CLASS HAVE EXPERIENCE?
Really this question is about two separate issues. One is anxiety about being able to pick up the skills necessary to operate a motorcycle. The other has to do with social anxiety. You worry others will judge you if you make a mistake.
Fear is natural any time you try something new. It's a healthy thing when you're learning to ride a motorcycle. Use that fear to create focus. Commit to putting in as much practice as it takes to master riding the motorcycle.
As far as others judging goes, Harley® is about individuality and self-expression. You'll find the Harley-Davidson® community has some of the most inclusive, encouraging people you'll ever meet. We welcome riders of all skill levels and respect you for your willingness to learn.
HOW HARD IS IT TO LEARN TO RIDE A MOTORCYCLE?
With enough practice, almost anyone can learn to ride a motorcycle. Individuals approach their first motorcycle ride with varying levels of agility, balance, strength and endurance, so the learning process is different for everyone.
It all boils down to determination. How badly do you want to learn? Are you someone who gives up easily or do you welcome a challenge? Do you see mistakes as an opportunity to learn and improve?
Take learning to ride seriously and expect it to take some time. Give yourself the freedom to make mistakes and see them as part of the learning experience. Join forums and local riding groups so you have support and encouragement. Before long you'll be roaring through the Dallas streets, proud and confident.
Keep in mind when you take your basic motorcycle training course the exercises won't be on the open road or in traffic. You'll have space to learn and professional instructor support.
HOW MANY WOMEN RIDE?
The latest national survey by the Motorcycle Industry Council found women now make up 19 percent of motorcycle owners. That's up from just 10 percent in 2009.
HOW DO I FIND THE BIKE THAT'S RIGHT FOR ME?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions. It's important to find the right motorcycle fit no matter what your gender. We're not just talking about height. Just because you're petite, don't rule out larger bikes.
It's like clothing. You can't tell just by looking at it whether or not it will fit. You know from experience just because a pair of jeans is the number you usually buy doesn't mean you'll like the way they fit. You have to try them on. It's the same with bikes. The best way to find the right fit is to sit on them.
If you're in love with a specific model and it's too high or low, keep in mind we can make adjustments. Find out more on our fit and function page.
IS IT HARDER TO LEARN TO RIDE A HARLEY® THAN OTHER TYPES OF MOTORCYCLE?
Not at all. Larger, heavier Harley-Davidson® motorcycles are positionally stable, with wide tires that make keeping the bike upright a little simpler. Smaller models like the Sportster Superlow and the Softail Slim are more nimble, with a low center of gravity.
WHAT IF I DROP MY BIKE?
You're going to drop your bike. It's not if, it's when. Every rider would rather be punched in the gut than have it happen, but every rider will also tell you it does happen.
We can show you how to pick your bike up if it hits the ground. If something gets dented or broken, it sucks but you just fix it. It's like having a new car. You hate the thought of getting a ding, but you know eventually it's going to happen. That doesn't keep you from getting a new car, it just makes you extra cautious.
WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF GETTING HURT?
When you take a motorcycle basic training course, everything you do will be at slow speed. Instructors show you what to do and how to do it, then gradually release you to practice on your own. It's not impossible for someone to get hurt, but it's highly unlikely.
On the open road, car accidents happen more frequently than motorcycle accidents. There's no riding or driving without risk. We encourage all riders to make safety a priority, train for riding skill and wear appropriate safety gear.
WHERE DO I FIND MORE INFORMATION ON LEARNING TO RIDE?
Come to our workshop! Even if you have zero experience, we'll help you get started. Our JUMPSTART™ Demo lets you sit on the bike, start, shift and rev it so you can feel what it's like to harness the power of a Harley. If you can't make the event, get in touch! We're always happy to help.