Monthly Archives: August 2012

A few months back I was afforded the opportunity to visit Chicago for Harley-Davidson’s release of their new Dark Custom line of motorcycles. Immediately I was hooked. Not only were the bikes insanely cool, but the people who rode them were an amazing culture of diverse people who – no matter their walk of life – all shared a love for riding and thus found a common bond. The experience was fascinating, and I found myself drawn to it more and more.

With that being said, when the opportunity presented itself to learn to ride a motorcycle, I literally jumped at the chance. Enter: Rider’s Edge.

Rider’s Edge is the introductory motorcycle course that teaches the basics of motorcycle operation and safety. The class size is small enough that two state-licensed instructors can have a very hands-on experience with the students over the course of a few days and take an interested beginner through the logical and safe steps of becoming a licensed motorcycle operator.

Day one consists of classroom instruction. Videos, manuals and discussion provide the laws and theory behind operating a motorcycle safely and without incident. The course is entertaining, however, with instructors that are motorcycle enthusiasts. They knew their stuff but had a way of imparting the knowledge with humor and a “regular guy” attitude that made every student comfortable.

Days two and three involve practical experience. That’s right…you’re on the bike. The course I took was offered during the day, so on days two and three we were out at 8am to get started. Step by step, we were instructed the correct ways to check the condition of your bike for safe and proper operation. Eventually, bit by bit, we learned each component leading up to the ultimate goal: Riding. Once we got the bikes moving, it was on!

Smiles grew across each rider’s face as he or she began to feel the first bit of wind on his or her face. Some people grasped the concepts faster than others, but the instructors were patient with everyone. Bit by bit, we all became more and more comfortable until we were all riding around the course.

Are you going to fall? It’s possible. I did. A few times, honestly. And honestly, falling sucks. But the reality of the situation is, it was my own fault. I had proper instruction, and everything was clearly explained to me…I hesitated because I didn’t trust myself and the bike. One thing I learned from falling, though, is that once you’ve done it, you’re no longer afraid of it. And once I got comfortable, however, it all started to come together.

In the end, I passed the written and riding exam (provided at the end of class) received my certification, took it to the Maryland Motor Vehicles Association, and now have a Class M license! How happy was I about that? You be the judge…