Obtaining your motorcycle license is the first step to unlocking a world of two-wheeled adventures and unforgettable experiences. After you’ve received your license, you may be left wondering, what next? In this guide, we'll take you through some next steps and provide valuable insights to help you make the most of your motorcycling journey. You'll discover the importance of setting riding goals, investing in safe gear, gaining additional training, and joining a riding community that fits your style. By the end of this blog, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident motorcyclist, ready to hit the open road.
Motorcycle Safety Course
If you haven’t already taken a Motorcycle Safety Course, that is a great place to start. Laying the foundation for safety on the road and getting your endorsement through a class has many benefits. Once you’ve taken the class, the next steps are to take the certification card to the DMV and get your Motorcycle Operator License. Then it’s time to make some plans!
Set Riding Goals
When it comes to motorcycles, having clear riding goals can be a great way to motivate you to get seat time. Whether it's planning big trips, checking off bucket list items, or participating in exciting events, setting these goals gives you something to look forward to and increases your riding time and experience. Riding goals provide the motivation and anticipation that make your journey all the more thrilling.
Plan a solo road trip to a place that challenges the farthest distance you’ve ridden. Pick an event on a date that is far out enough to gain some extra experience before riding out to. Find a group that could inspire you to ride with them eventually and practice skills to get you there.
Invest in Safe Motorcycle Gear
Before you start your motorcycle adventure, it's crucial to invest in safe and high-quality gear. Our gear guide will help you choose the right riding gear, including helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots, emphasizing safety, visibility, and quality. The right gear can protect you while ensuring you're visible on the road.
Consider additional things like Kevlar jeans, adding armor to protective jackets, proper eye protection for all parts of your ride (including at night), reflective materials for night riding, heated gear if it’s later in the year, and cooling vests in the summer. Some of these may seem like nice-to-haves, but if you are riding distracted by the elements, you’re not riding safely.
Quality gear will last you a long time, but also needs to be taken care of. Just like you check your motorcycle before riding with T-CLOCS, it’s always good to check your gear and keep it well-maintained.
Consider Additional Training
Don't feel rushed to get on a motorcycle after obtaining your license. Consider gaining more seat time through additional training. This extra practice will hone your skills and boost your confidence. Investing time in training ensures that you're well-prepared for the road ahead. There are lots of options out there whether you have purchased your first motorcycle already or not.
Use Your Motorcycle License to Rent Bikes
If you have yet to purchase your first motorcycle, now that you have your license, you can rent motorcycles from places like EagleRider, Twisted Road, and more. This allows you to experience different models and get a feel for what suits you best. Trying before you buy is a smart way to make an informed decision.
We also allow anyone with their M endorsement to demo motorcycles on our showroom floor. When you talk with a Fit Specialist about the type of riding you may want to pursue and other things like size and weight. They can fit you with a bike on our floor that you can then take out for a test ride with them.
Purchasing your first Motorcycle
When it's time to purchase your first motorcycle, consider the options of new versus used bikes. Explore options, weigh your choices, and learn what factors to consider, from financing and insurance to warranties. Making the right choice for your first motorcycle is essential.
Things to think about when looking for your first bike:
- What are your priorities? Comfort, performance, aesthetics?
- What type of riding style will you ride? Long road trips, mode of transportation, off-road/on-road, weekend warrior, two-up, overnight trips, day cruiser, etc.
It’s also good when purchasing a bike, to begin considering how you plan on maintaining your bike. That can factor into your decision on which motorcycle you purchase.
Servicing and Care for Your Bike
Regular servicing and care for your motorcycle are vital to keep it in top condition. In our service blog, we delve into bike maintenance in more detail. Learn how to keep your bike on the road and ensure it's always in the best shape possible.
When you purchase a bike from our dealership, we also offer VIP service plans that make sure your first few services are taken care of by our trusted technicians. No matter where you purchase your bike from, be sure to refer to your owner's manual for the service intervals.
Plan a Solo Ride
Once you've gained some experience in the real world, additional training and practice of skills, and are confident with your bike and gear, it's time to plan a solo ride. You may want to consider a well-known route that you’ve taken in your car many times so that you don’t have to worry yet about navigation.
When doing a solo road trip, you get to test your capabilities, go at your own pace, and learn valuable lessons about your skills. It may be difficult at first, but you will learn much about your abilities and be even more ready for the next adventure.
Plan an Epic Road Trip
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime by planning an epic motorcycle road trip. Explore the thrill of long-distance journeys, learn about route planning, accommodations, and how to create unforgettable memories on the road. Read this [blog article] to get more insights.
Planning a longer trip with friends who have skills similar to your own or who perhaps have a few more years of experience than you, can be exciting. On longer road trips you gain planning skills (routes, gas stops, accommodation, etc.) and have to figure out the best way to navigate (apps, maps, etc.).
Depending on the time and distance they need to cover, many riders prefer to plan their routes off major highways. This is not only more scenic but may be a better option for newer riders as well with less traffic and lower speeds.
Join a Riding Community
Becoming a part of a riding community can enhance your motorcycling experience. Discover like-minded riders who share your interests and passions. Building connections with fellow riders is easier than ever, as you can find communities both online and locally. More tips on how to find a group in our blog article "Ride with Us: How to Find Motorcycle Groups."
H-D App
Lastly, we introduce the Harley-Davidson app, which can add a tech-savvy touch to your motorcycling experience. Download the app and get connected to communities and riders. Users can share rides, tell stories, and find events.
In summary, obtaining your motorcycle license is just the beginning of your exciting riding journey. By setting riding goals, investing in safe gear, gaining additional training, and becoming a part of a riding community, you'll enrich your motorcycling experience in ways you never imagined. So, gear up, get ready, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!