Getting back into motorcycling after decades away is both exciting and intimidating. After a 30‑year break from riding, I decided it was finally time to return to two wheels — and this time, I chose a Harley-Davidson. On my YouTube channel, Throttle Reborn, I share the real, unfiltered experience of rediscovering motorcycling later in life. This post expands on one of my early videos and dives deeper into what those first months back have really been like.
If you prefer to watch the full ride and hear the story in my own words, you can check out the video on my channel.
Why I Returned to Riding After 30 Years
One of the biggest surprises was just how nervous I felt getting on the bike again. The weight of the Harley-Davidson Heritage, especially compared to the Ninja I used to ride, made me second‑guess myself.
Before I even hit the road, I spent time:
- Sitting on the bike in the garage
- Pushing it around to understand the balance
- Getting familiar with the weight and feel
It sounds simple, but those early moments helped rebuild confidence. If you’re returning to riding after a long break, don’t underestimate how valuable slow, controlled practice can be.
Relearning Low-Speed Skills
Once I started riding around my local area, the next challenge became obvious: low‑speed manoeuvres.
Stopping, starting, tight turns — all the things that look easy when you’re experienced suddenly felt awkward. I didn’t feel balanced. I didn’t feel smooth. And I definitely didn’t feel confident.
To improve, I turned to some of the best online instructors out there:
- Robert Simmons – Ride Like a Pro
- MotoJitsu
- Police motor officer training techniques
Their drills and explanations helped me understand what I was doing wrong and how to fix it. I’m still not perfect — far from it — but the improvement has been huge.
Taking My Time: No Rush to Be a “Mile Muncher”
A lot of riders jump straight into long trips or big kilometres, but that’s not my approach. I’ve done around 850–900 km so far, mostly on weekends, and I’m not in a hurry to rack up numbers.
For me, the goal is simple:
- Get comfortable
- Build skills gradually
- Enjoy the ride
There’s no prize for rushing. Everyone’s journey is different, and this is the pace that works for me.
Venturing Beyond Local Roads
One of the biggest milestones was taking my first proper riding course — an advanced road course that took me onto unfamiliar roads and longer stretches. Up until then, most of my riding had been close to home.
Riding new roads with experienced instructors gave me:
- More confidence
- Better awareness
- A sense of progression
It also reminded me how much fun it is to explore on a motorcycle.
Still Nervous? Yes — and That’s Okay
Even now, I feel nervous on every ride. But I see it as a healthy nervousness — the kind that keeps you alert, aware, and respectful of the bike.
I don’t lane filter much yet. I don’t push myself into situations I’m not ready for. I ride for enjoyment, not transport, and I avoid riding when I’m rushed or stressed.
That mindset has made the return to riding far more enjoyable.
My Harley-Davidson Heritage: A Perfect Bike for Returning Riders
My bike is a 2019 Harley-Davidson Heritage, and I couldn’t be happier with it. People often think it’s brand new because it’s so clean, but it actually had very little service history when I bought it.
What I love about it:
- Comfortable riding position
- Stable and predictable handling
- Plenty of character
- Easy to ride even for someone returning after decades
It’s been the perfect companion for rediscovering motorcycling.
Final Thoughts: If You’re Returning to Riding, You’re Not Alone
Coming back to motorcycling after a long break is a journey — sometimes nerve‑wracking, sometimes challenging, but always rewarding.
Stay safe out there, and enjoy the ride.