give (one) a rough ride
To cause one to encounter difficulties or challenges; to cause one to struggle or have a tough time. Going to graduate school while working a full-time job really gave me a rough ride!
give (one) an easy ride
To allow one to do something without difficulty or struggle. Her parents have given her an easy ride her entire life, so I'm not surprised she's struggling in college.
have a rough ride
To encounter difficulties or challenges; to have a tough time. If you think going to graduate school while working a full-time job will be easy, you're going to have a rough ride!
have an easy ride
To do something without difficulty. I don't know why he thinks he'll have an easy ride going to graduate school while working a full-time job.