I took this CMSP riding course from July 25-28. It was one pure classroom day a few hours in length followed by two days of half riding range and half classroom. The classroom part takes place at the Bartels' Harley-Davidson's and we had a real cool bonus bit before class started that included a chance to practice shifting on a Street 500 that was setup to not actually move as well as a demo on how to pickup your dropped bike. John Sosebee was very knowledgeable and made the content very engaging and enjoyable and he was able to answer all our questions and offer good advice. And don't fret about the written test, pay a little attention and you'll be just fine. Allan was our instructor on the riding range and he was excellent as well. He had everything setup and ready to go plenty early (which is really early since we were set to begin at 7am). He also had plenty of extra gear for riders that may not have had everything already. He helped make sure that the motorcycle we sat on had the best seat height possible so we were all comfortable. While the temps were pretty high, the breaks were appropriately timed and he was extremely patient and offered lots of advice throughout the entire day. The only way this course could have gone better would be if the weather co-operated and gave us a cold cloudy day, but not much you can do about that. Highly recommended. read more

I had an awful experience with their motorcycle school. the classroom study was fine, but the actually riding part was abysmal. The main instructor taught us like he was a military drill seargent. He was actually yelling and screaming at us when we didn't do things properly- then shaking his head and looking away In frustration. Most of us did not pass- understandably- it's hard to gain confidence in a new skill when someone is so impatient and overly critical Of you. I wrote to the owner twice, to see if I could retake the riding portion (for free since I had already paid $350) and did not get an answer until I repeatedly called the showroom. I was given permission to drive down to the range to retake the second day- only to be turned away as they needed an additional instructor for me being added to the class. I gave up and will be taking the class elsewhere- I just wish I could get my money back because of this horrible experience. read more

Jane is amazing , she was very pleasant to learn from on the course and in the class . Thank you for making this a fun learning experience!

I took the Oct 19-22 course. Two classroom sessions and two range sessions. Instructors Jane, Scott and Rob were great teachers-knowledgeable and encouraging. That said I was counseled out after one hour on the range. I believe the other two women enrolled also did not complete the course. I tried to take a private lesson before enrolling in CMSP but was turned down by another instructor. Can you pass the course if you are a small female? Absolutely. Just know the bikes used for the course are Street 500s. I'm 4'10" 85 lb and had a difficult time managing the bike, balancing/steering, and operating controls well. Perhaps other CMSP sites use smaller/lighter bikes. read more

I took the course May 2022. Seeing these awful reviews is upsetting. I can't remember the names of my instructors. I went in with a year of experience, so I wasn't new to riding. With that being said, the rest of my class (a big class as well) were all brand new to riding, never been on a bike. It was an amazing experience for me to see them all go from absolutely no riding to passing the test. Even with a year under my belt, the instructors were still able to teach me a couple tricks and new things. Of course, the bikes are loud and the helmets block a bit of sound, but even then they weren't yelling terribly. Most of my class passed (I think 2-3 did not). They had Rebel 500s, and various seat heights. They had helmets for those who didn't bring any. It was great for me. I only wish that I had kept in touch with those in my class to see how they've progressed. Bartel's also hosts occasional weekend mini rides, I attended once but none of my classmates were there. In my opinion, this course with this team is PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS. read more

An amazing crew and great instructors! the bikes that are taught on are maintained and theres a professional environment for the opportunity to learn to ride. read more

John, you were awesome! I definitely liked your energy and enthusiasm while you instructed our course. Bill (I think you introduced yourself to us the first night as the owner?) Give this man a raise and keep him here! He is awesome! I was worried about the written test and John made it pretty simple and easy for beginners to understand. Katie/Katy (not sure how to spell your name) You were amazing. Thank you for the tremendous patience out there on the range. I'm sorry you I made you break your tiny back, dumping the bike a few times and having you lift it back up. Thanks for the patience and being understanding. (Also Bill, someone... give these folks a raise LOL!!! ) it was HOT out there and I'm sure it takes a lot to stand in the heat and instruct a bunch of squids on the range. The course made me feel very confident, on the final day. Katie/Katy also made it super easy for beginners. I hope this encourages anyone interested in riding to signing up. To end it all, I hope you all the best and ride safe. Thank you once again for helping me achieve a life long goal I have been wanting to accomplish. read more

FIRST TIME RIDERS!! This class is a must for all first time riders who wish to learn safe techniques, how to ride a motorcycle, rules of the road, and so much more! My instructors, Rob & Scott did an amazing job! My partners and I learned how to ride and how to do it safely! The Bartels Harley Davidson Academy is organized and provide you with everything you need! You just sign up and show up. They are ready to answer any question and help you pick up your bike when needed! They did a great job, I am very grateful for their knowledge and smiles they brought each day in the classroom and at the range! Thank you both! read more

The classroom sessions were fine but I wish they were online like most other classes are. The riding portion was the problem. We had two instructors, a girl and an older guy. The girl was very helpful but the guy was somewhat condescending and gave very vague and unhelpful instruction; it was very obvious he did not want to be there. A He also put me on a shorter bike (I'm 6'1) and when I told him the seat height was too small he insisted that they're all the same, but then I asked the girl if there were bigger bikes and she said some of them had raised seat heights: the course was not very accommodating for all rider types. They also put us on Harley x500s which are quite heavy for beginner riders. My biggest problem was the parking lot they chose. My god... they couldn't have chosen a worse parking lot in la. It was off sight, about 15 minutes away from Harley Davidson, at some high school. The lot is incredibly small to learn in and is sloped about 5-8 degrees which made maneuvers much more difficult to do, especially for beginner riders. The pavement was also very dated with cracks, and the parking lot had 2 giant speed bumps in it. Overall a very disappointing first experience on a motorcycle and I heavily advice to look for a different class. read more

Deb and Tiffany were phenomenal instructors!! Lovely humans with a true passion for teaching SAFE riding habits. If you are a beginner rider (i.e. have never sat on a bike and have no idea how to shift gears) they will walk you through every step of the process and make you feel comfortable and confident in your ability to understand and maneuver a motorcycle! The classroom lessons were extremely helpful and reinforced what we learned on the riding range. I was thoroughly impressed by how much time and attention you receive for the price you pay, well worth it! All around had an amazing weekend with a great group of people. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! read more

This weekend I had truly amazing experience with Riding Academy. Everyone who works in Bartel's is extremely friendly and helpful. Our instructor John made the lectures entertaining and educational at the same time. Our riding instructor Jo was great as well, explaining everything clearly and patiently. I loved this course and amazed what I was able to learn just in 3 days. Will definitely come back for personal lessons. Another dream came true and now I am a motorcyclist thanks to these guys! Thank you. read more

Can't speak highly enough of this course or our instructor, John. My girlfriend, who is 5,4 and 105lbs, and I both showed up having no riding experience whatsoever. The prospect of riding a 500lb Harley intimidated both of us to begin with, but almost immediately John completely put us at ease about it. When it was time to get on the bikes, we both felt comfortable to get up and go. With a class of 5 people, we all received ample individual feedback and were able to improve at our own paces. By the time we took the test, even my tiny girlfriend was completely comfortable with her abilities on the bike. PROS: Small class size Nice, new bikes Different seats for shorter/taller riders Johns accent Personal instruction/feedback Relaxed as hell CONS: Good luck getting to Hawthorne at 7am if you sign up for the early class You will want to buy a Harley and they are not cheap I am not one to go out of my way and write shining Yelp reviews typically, but I really have nothing but gratitude for this class and the skills that John imparted to us. Even if you aren't planning on getting your license or buying a bike, I'd recommend going to bartels riding academy just because it's a great time. Thanks again! read more

Bartels' Riding Academy - Specialty Schools Near Me - Marina del Rey, California

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Great instructors. Super knowledgable. Super fun bikes. I learned a lot and gained new found respect for riding. Everyone should take this course and if you do take it @ Bartels. read more

Called spoke with someone, she put me on hold then never got back to me. System went to voice-mail and they didn't answer afterwards. Then operator turned off the phone. read more

Definitely gained the necessary knowledge and skills to confidently ride the bike after attending the class. The instructors are fun and made everything easy to understand. If you plan on taking the class, from any motorcycle school, have an open mind and just enjoy every second of the course. That helps. The experience itself exceeded my expectations as someone who has never been on a motorcycle. The motorcycles that we used are very easy to handle. Only issue is that the range is different from the classroom. So lunch time is crunch time- get food, eat, drive to where you're supposed to be at, and anything in between. Shout out to John, Frank, and KD! You guys are awesome! read more

I took the course as a refresher and even though I was familiar with the coursework, I learned some new things this time around. My instructors Deb and Chelsea were great and they helped me pass the course! My classmates were a mix of novice and experienced riders. We all supported each other despite passing or failing. I would take this course again in a couple of years, however, I want to become an instructor so I can teach others! read more

John and Frank are incredibly patient and will give you TONS of knowledge and make you feel extremely comfortable on a bike. I didn't have any expectations but had an amazing time learning safety maneuvers and the basics of riding a motorcycle. If you even have the slightest urge to learn, this is definitely the place to do it. I'd recommend Bartels to anyone! Couldn't wait to get back out on the range. Go in with an open mind and take the coaching and knowledge these instructors give you! So worth it and will help you pass the class without a doubt. Thanks again John and Frank! read more

If you have never operated a motorcycle or have very little experience, this is a great course (better for everyone if you are coordinated and not a spaz). The instructors both in the class and on the range are excellent, cool, and patient. It is not designed to pass everyone or fail everyone, which allows them to be sure everyone is appropriate and safe. The cost is extremely reasonable especially since passing this course waives the California DMV road test and they are letting you ride their safety-equipped Harley bikes. If you've always wanted to ride, take this course! read more

My name is Chris Galbasin l recently bought a bike from Joe at Bartels and signed up for the riding academy what an experience great instructors Rod and Scott were so knowledgeable patient and just phenomenal instruction and superb abvice thanks again guys l would recommend this course to beginners to long time riders l guarantee you will get and learn something new! read more

Extremely informative and useful. John and the team provided lots of insight and advice that has increased my safety dramatically. Additionally he managed to make it fun and showed a genuine interest in the class. Thank you Bartels read more

From my first call to the dealership inquiring about the riding academy up until today, I've had nothing but an amazing experience with the staff of Bartels. Allison and Pete were amazing instructors. They were compassionate and understanding of my initial fear of motorcycle riding and turned it into confidence and love for motorcycling. The patience they both showed made me feel comfortable and eventually confident. Their knowledge was top-notch! They knew exactly how to show someone with no experience the ropes and pushed me to feel comfortable on a motorcycle in a safe and fun manner. Thank you Allison and Pete! You guys rock! Overall, the professionalism and friendliness of Bartels employees completely made me feel that I made the right choice in joining the Harley Davidson family. Thank you so much for an unforgettable experience. I look forward to returning over and over again for all my motorcycle needs. read more

Bartels' Riding Academy - Specialty Schools Near Me - Marina del Rey, California

Anyone interested in learning to ride must take this course!!! I walked in knowing nothing about bikes or riding and walked away feeling confident to continue to learn and ride. The staff is exceptional, friendly and knowledgeable. The pace of the class is perfect for a beginner and your riding ability and confidence builds with each exercise. It was also so much fun! Katie and John are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, and funny. I'll be signing up for private lessons to ensure I can ride safely before I hit the road. Thanks Bartels!!! You'll be seeing me soon read more

I couldn't speak any more highly of this course. Not only was it extremely fun, but it is three and a half days of knowledge filled classroom and driving range instruction. The classroom instructor, John, was friendly, knowledgeable and very entertaining. He was able to take some relatively dry material and make it bearable when all we really wanted to do was get on the bike and go. My range instructor, Katie, was enthusiastic, energetic and will make sure you turn your head and LOOK all the way through your corners! She's proof that it doesn't take some big meathead to tame a motorcycle. TBH, I wasn't super keen on the idea of riding a motorcycle in LA at first but this class gave me a different perspective on riding in a safe and practical way through practice and proper technique. Now all I think about is splitting lanes! Ignore that moron who gave a bad review below me. The "blond girl" did an awesome job at teaching and keeping everyone safe. Sounds like he was a few brain cells short of a full helmet. Dude...all you have to do is push right to go right...c'mon! HIGHLY Recommended for new riders and those who want to increase their skill and knowledge. read more

I just finished my motorcycle course, and I have to say I "Loved it". All the team members were nice and helpful, specially my teacher John Sosebee, he is a great communicator which makes the classes fun and easy, also with a positive energy. In regards of riding on their motorcycles, which are in an excellent condition, he is a great instructor, if I can ride a motorcycle now, is thanks to him and this course! If you are looking for a CMSP Motorcyclists Training Courses, I highly recommend Bartel's. read more

Bartel's Riding Academy was such a great experience. Not only is it at a really cool store with tons of bikes, used bikes, and The Jump Start bike, John keeps the class exciting and humorous in the classroom so you're not falling asleep. Great focus on how to reduce the possibility of getting into an accident starting with the gear and riding techniques. When we got to the road course portion I had jumped on a brand new Harley Street 500 with 12 miles on it. The bike ran great and made it enjoyable riding all the maneuvers. Allan the instructor was really friendly and helpful in educating the students on the course. I'm looking forward to my next training course to improve my riding ability and renting some bikes from Eagle Rider inside Bartel's. As a student from the riding academy you get special rates on renting the bikes and any gear you might need. Highly recommended! read more

This course exceeded my expectations in every way. The instructors are beyond qualified. John is an energetic, enthusiastic encyclopedia of information with a level of expertise that allows him to present the information in the clearest, most concise way; and his style is fun and entertaining. Also, I could not believe how much riding we did and what we accomplished with the step-by-step progression of skills on the range. What a great week-end, adventure, and riding course. These people work really hard and are terrific ambassadors for the motorcycling community. Thank-you :) read more

John Sosebee, he is a great teacher which makes the lectures easy to stay focused and positive. Also range instructor Frank was great too! His questions that WE were supposed​ to ask him kept me positive even during that Saturday​ rain. read more

Excellent course and John and Katie were amazing instructors! I learned a lot and will recommend this course to any rider, definitely worth the time and money! read more

I had an enjoyable experience at Bartels, instructors are knowledgeable, professional, and fun. I had never driven motorcycle before this course, and was so much afraid of getting hurt, but Katie was super helpful and were giving me productive feedback in range. John was articulate in explaining the course materials while keeping an interactive, fun atmosphere in the class. Overall, it was a great experience, I highly recommend this place. read more

You can't go wrong with Alli. She is an excellent instructor. Her enthusiasm and positive attitude makes this class a breeze. Even those who have "The Fear" (as my honey calls it) in them can find clarity and the courage to ride. This course has changed my technique in the short amount of 2 days on the range. I want to take the internet course and will only take it with Alli. That's a promise! read more

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Great experience all together! If you go for the course: ask to be in John Sosebee's class: he his the best instructor!! Otherwise, those riding range in Hawthorne isn't the best parking lot you can find, (small) and forces you to travel between the classes at bartels and the parking lot driving classes... Despite the logistics i think this class is really worth it, and i feel way more comfortable on a bike than I did before. Surprisingly a lot of women come to drive Harley's, and they all left very happy about what they've learned! Kudos to John the instructor: you rock man! read more

Pro's - Allie is an Awesome Riding Coach The Whole Bartels' team makes you feel like you are welcome and are excited about your progress. The bikes are all new Harley's and are 500CC (so your ridding a real bike) The Class work is spread out in a way that it doesn't kill you. Con's Only one I could think of was the 8a start on range days, (but honestly thats just because i hate to wake up and it really is a pro as it gives you the most ridding time) I took this class as I have not been ridding in 7 years and I wanted to get back into it. I wanted to explore if riding was really something I was interested in again. It started off by coming early the first day and getting the store tour. It was great if you have any mechanical interest this is great as you get to see the "behind the seens". You also meet everyone one and I mean all of the Bartels' family and they are very welcoming and excited that you are there. The Classroom is nice and setup with everything you need. Best part is during the breaks you get to hang out on the show floor and look at all the bikes. As for the Class I can not say enough about the Coach Allie. She did a great job going over all the information and not making it too boring. She also took the time to have discussions as questions came up. We had a very wide range of skill levels during my class and i was impressed how well she handled the differing skill levels. The range is nice and clean, easy to get to. I was very impressed that we were riding all new harley speedsters 500. A big enough bike to get a feel of what riding would really be like but small enough to not be intimidated. Over all This was a great class and It reconfirmed for me that I do need to get ridding again. Also big plus is It helped me get my motorcycle endorsement. Just need to pick a bike now. read more

Flew down out of necessity from Vegas with a California licence. Went from obligation to a pleasure very quick! Had John as an instructor and good lord this guy is good at what he does. The whole experience was amazing, other then having to go to LAX after the final class lol. If your considering buying yourself a bike whether it be a Harley or like myself an import go here!!! Very small investment for an excellent return. Can't say it enough, THANKS JOHN!!!! read more

Bartels' Riding Academy - Loved every minute, John you sir a scholar and a gentleman. Thanks a million I will cruise down for a ride soon.. Ride on sir, ride on!! - Specialty Schools Near Me - Marina del Rey, California

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I had a really great experience with Bartels' Riding Academy! John was great in the classroom preparing us for the DMV written test as well as all the safety practices we will need on the road. Joe was great on the track teaching us hands on riding on real Harleys! Also after taking the hands on riding portion of the class I dont have to take the DMV riding test! Amazing! read more

Bartels' Riding Academy - Specialty Schools Near Me - Marina del Rey, California

Pete and Alli are amazing! As other reviewers mentioned, both instructors are highly knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging. Most importantly, they care deeply about their students' safety and success. The basic motorcycle training course consists of 3 classroom sessions and approximately 10 hours of riding. I took the class with several friends, and our skills grew by leaps and bounds over a couple days. Most of us were complete newbies, but by the end, we all felt ready for the street. Pete and Alli instilled respect for the fundamentals, a focus on safety, and confidence in every member of our group -- which we'll carry with us for the rest of our motorcycle-riding lives. If you have any interest in learning to ride, or just want to do something fun with your buddies on a weekend, I highly recommend that you take their course. read more

After being off a motorcycle for years I decided the take the Riding Academy class. I will admit that part of the draw was not having to take the DMV riding part of the test. Let me tell you THAT is now the LAST reason to take this class. Alli and Pete were fantastic teachers. We had people who ranged from never riden to be experienced riders. This class literally just saved my wife and my life. We are on a ride in the Sierra Mountains. We got caught in a Hail and rainstorm. Short version, going slow, rear wheels still hydro-plained to slide in a really tight right hand turn. Brake, down shift, straighten out, and stop before going over cliff. THANK YOU Allie and Pete p.s. my wife will be taken the beginner class when we get home and I will be taken the advanced class. read more

John, Jordan and Frank are such amazing coaches! I learned a lot and the whole experience was a blast! Best money you'll ever spend.

Riding a motorcycle in California is the ultimate American adventure. Cruising along the coast with the wind in the hair (and DOT helmet on) - sign me up! And my hubby did...at Bartel's Riding Academy, best surprise ever!! If you ever thought about learning how to ride a motorcycle, I highly recommend signing up with the Pros at Bartel's Riding Academy. I had such an amazing time! John Sosebee is an excellent instructor on and off the range. He truly cares about your safety and takes you through every step to make sure you enjoy the ride with confidence. And you do it all on a daredevil Harley! Five stars for the Academy! read more

There aren't enough positive things I can say about taking the CMSP course through Bartel's H-D - but I will do my best! I had been considering some in-depth training for awhile. So when I saw H-D was running a promotion, I knew it was time to stop dreaming and finally make it happen. The enrollment process was seamless and I received several emails to help me prepare. My registration was a month before the actual class, so I decided to visit Bartels first to check things out in advance. I was lucky enough to meet the course instructor John Sosebee and ask some questions I had about gear. He was not only incredibly knowledgeable, but very personable as well. The first part of the course was in the evening - classroom only. It estimated 3 hours with a broad overview and an intro into motorcycling, gear and safety. That much info can feel overwhelming, but it was all presented in an easy to follow and enjoyable way. John's style is professional yet relaxed - making sure you understand while keeping it fun. His experience and passion for the sport is quite clear and makes it that much more beneficial. The weekend days were a mix of range practice (6 students max) and more classroom afterwards. Katie was the instructor for the range sessions and did an excellent job too! She was super patient and made sure we all were informed and encouraged in every exercise. I never felt concerned for my safety or rushed - especially since it was all so new to me. Everything moved at a great pace with a lot of different scenarios covered. Her honest feedback and a focus on safety/skills/success was much appreciated! Both John and Katie were incredibly fair with the written and riding tests and helped reduce the stress that tends to come with that. Even though it was a rather intense, short time frame to learn in, I never felt pushed past my limits ... definitely challenged, but not defeated. My best advice for anyone wanting to take the CMSP would be: 1. Sign up for Bartel's course. 2. Be prepared to focus ONLY on motorcycles, the handbooks, and the expert instructors. 3. Get as much rest before as possible and always be early to sessions. 4. Be completely open-minded/respectful and participate. 5. Have all the fun you can! You won't regret such an organized and supportive learning experience. Thank you so much Bartel's Team! read more

Thanks to Bartel's riding academy I am shiftin' like a boss!! John made us feels at home and made the intro curriculum easy to take in. Our instructor Allan was very detailed and professional. He made me feel comfortable riding a motorcycle for the first time by his through instructions. He helped us all achieve a better understanding of the risks and dangers of riding. Now, I feel confident that my journey on the bike will be much safer and more responsible by taking the CHP coarse. read more