Learn to Ride | Quaid Harley-Davidson
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Never Ridden Before? Don't Sweat It!

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 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.

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Skip the DMV for your riding 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. We will pay!

Skilled Rider Courses available! 3 Wheel Courses available!

What to wear:

  • A long-sleeve shirt or jacket
  • Sturdy long pants without rips or holes
  • Full fingered street-specific motorcycle or leather glove
  • Tough, over-the-ankle shoes or boots
  • Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, face shield, etc)
We can provide a helmet, but if you bring your own, it must be three-quarter or full face and DOT approved

Intro into Motorcycling

Quaid H-D 101 is an introduction for anyone interested in riding! You must have a ton of questions that we would love to answer! We’ll start with the basics, go over the bikes from headlights to tail lights and get you information about everything from learning to ride to gear that fits your style. We are all about getting you any information you need to decide if riding is for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I get my motorcycle license by taking the class?

If you successfully complete the class, you will be mailed a DMV DL389 certificate which waives the riding part of your license process. You will still be responsible for taking the DMV's written tests to complete your M1 license. Please consult your local DMV office for details and individual requirements.

What kind of bikes will we ride? Can I use my own bike?

SCMT offer a wide variety of makes and models that are 125-250cc's. You may use your own motorcycle in the class, but it must meet two of three criteria set by the state program: under 500ccs, under 400 lbs., and/or seat height of under 30". You must also show proper registration and insurance documents.

What if I only want to ride a scooter?

California requires an M1 license for all motorcycles and scooters. You can use your own scooter in class as long as it meets the same criteria as training motorcycles (under 500cc, less than 400 lbs. and under a 30" seat height). You must also bring current registration and insurance documents to show us.

Do I need to get my motorcycle permit first?

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.

How long is the class?

It is approximately 15 hours total. About five hours are spent in the classroom and around 10 hours are on-bike practice. You can expect to ride between 24 and 30 miles during the class.

What are the schedules?

Classes are offered during the week and on weekends. There are 2-day and 3-day formats which include the same class content. The three-day classes begin with an evening classroom, and features morning riding sessions. The two-day class is two full days combining morning classroom and afternoon riding.

Am I guaranteed to pass?

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.

What if I don't pass?

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.

What if I pass and I still want more practice?

Opportunities for Additional Practice are available for successful students. You can contact our office for scheduling and prices.

What if I can't show up for a part of my class?

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 SCMT. The decision to allow students to return on a standby basis is made by the administration.

Where are the classes held?

The riding portions of Palm Springs classes are held at the Wet'n'Wild Water Park, 1500 So. Gene Autry Trail Palm Springs. Inland Empire classroom and riding are done at San Manuel Stadium, 251 So. G Street, San Bernardino.