I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Kelley, one of our most recent Riding Academy graduates, to learn more about her history with the brand, her decision to take the course, and ultimately, what it was like to transition from a complete novice to a licensed motorcyclist in just one weekend. Kelley gives us candid feedback on her trepidations, her breakthroughs, and her biggest takeaways — and proves that it’s never too late to start something new.
Q: Kelley, what has been your exposure or experience with motorcycling and Harley-Davidson up until now?
While I’ve been around motorcycles for a long time—from Sturgis and local rides to multi-day rallies—my experience was always as a passenger. I loved the ride, the energy, the freedom… but I’d never actually been the one in control.
Q: What was your biggest hesitation going into the course?
Honestly, it was the gears and controls. I’d never worked a throttle or clutch in my life, and coordinating hands and feet at the same time sounded overwhelming. I took the online MSF E-Course beforehand, but without any real-world experience, the terminology felt like a foreign language.
Q: Let’s talk about the course itself. First off—did you have fun? What role did your instructors play in shaping your experience?
I had an absolutely fantastic time. Our coaches, Jim Kubek and Greg Schreck, were phenomenal. There were eleven of us in class, and over two days we learned 14 essential riding skills. The format was super effective—explain the skill, map it out, then demonstrate it. Every part was well thought out.
What really stood out was how patient and encouraging the instructors were. They broke things down into manageable steps and connected each skill to real-world riding. By the end of the weekend, I was shocked—in the best way—that I was actually doing it. Riding. Controlling the bike. It was a surreal, empowering experience.
Q: Did anything surprise you once you got behind the handlebars?
Yes—I didn’t expect to feel so confident so quickly. I honestly didn’t think I’d be riding solo by the end of the weekend, but I was. And now? I’m already counting down the days until I can ride again.
Q: The gear conversation is always personal for riders. What was required, and how did that shape your outlook on riding gear going forward?
The course stressed “all the gear—all the time.” We had to wear DOT-approved helmets, eye protection, over-the-ankle boots, gloves, and long sleeves. Now that I’ve experienced it firsthand, I understand just how important proper gear really is. I’ll definitely be shopping for a helmet with a better fit going forward.
Q: If someone you knew was on the fence about taking the course, or motorcycling in general, what would you tell them?
I’d say: Do it. This course takes all the fear and uncertainty and replaces it with knowledge, confidence, and skills. Every new skill was more fun than the last. It’s like being on the best carnival ride—and not wanting it to end. The instructors make it feel safe, accessible, and exciting.My perspective on the sport has completely shifted—it’s even more thrilling and empowering than I imagined.
Q: Last one—any words of wisdom or advice for someone considering this journey?
Trust the process. It’s only 48 hours of your life, but it’s 48 hours that can open the door to a lifetime of riding. It’s the most valuable time you’ll ever invest if you’re even thinking about riding.
Kelley’s story is proof that it doesn’t matter if you’ve never twisted a throttle—what matters is that you’re willing to try. The House of Harley-Davidson Riding Academy isn’t just about learning how to ride. It’s about giving people the tools, confidence, and support to ride right—and ride for life.
Interested in taking the leap yourself? Click here to learn more about our Riding Academy courses—and maybe, just maybe, we’ll be featuring your story next.