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Thursday, April 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, Harley has great resale, 2-yr warranty, rubber mounted engine, nice looking bike, and what a rep ... priced at $7,035 but would have to have it lowered (add'l $300). Then ran across a Suzuki 800 Intruder that is shaft driven, has hydraulic clutch, looks great, good fit (except the seat sucks), also rubber mounted and I love the handlebars and foot controls - priced at $6299. And lastly, saw the Shadow Spirit 750 and it feels perfect, looks AWESOME (esp w/the flames), but I have concerns with the HP for longer trips. Also didn't know if the chain driven and cable clutch would be more high maintenance .. it's priced at $6399. What's a girl to do? I'd like to decide in 2 days since the Intruder and Shadow will be $300 more after 4/30 -- should I go with one of them. D. Henderson in Lee's Summit, MO Dear
D., The Suzuki 800 is much loved by women riders and a seat suck can easily be changed out in the future. I personally love the "look." Shadow 750 is a great bike (I had one, an '86 model). Hp for longer trips is not a huge concern -- I took a trip from Chicago to Cape Cod on a Kawi 750 and a trip from Chicago, up through Wisconsin into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and down the Michigan side on the Shadow 750. My only beef was the leg room for my 5'10" frame on the Shadow (even with highway pegs). True, I'm a wimp, and limit my daily mileage to no more 350 miles/day. Stop every 100-120 miles to stretch (a good idea no matter what you're doing or riding!). Here's my concluding thought: buy the one that hits your gut instinct right. Remember, you'll get your time in on the bike and then be in a better position to judge your next one! I'm on bike #3 ('76 HD Shovelhead) and never regretted any of my choices, although I'm clearer on what I would ultimately slobber over for #4 (!) and I've been riding since 1979! Mama Thursday, April 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Roschelle, While my gut tells me that there's more to do (new spark plugs, tightening of exhaust pipe bolts, fuel filter cleaning, throttle adjustment check, and the like), it depends on how the power is bogging down. My suggestion is to take it to the dealer and have a service department mechanic ride it in the parking lot -- my guess is that they'll have a really good idea of what's going on (and this is free assessment, but try to go when the dealer isn't hopping nuts with customers!) Mama Thursday, April 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Bill, Thursday, April 29 Hi
VTwin Mama and friends, I'm relatively new to riding just got my bike this season (used 2000 Zuk Bandit 600, technically not VTwin) :-D I had my first ride Thursday when it was 59 degrees in Chicago. Yup, it was cold, but gosh darn it, I'm not going to let the stinking weather stop me on my FIRST RIDE!!!! I took the MSF class in the winter (in FL, NOT Chicago, ha ha!) HIGHLY suggest the MSF class. It teaches you a lot on safety and also gets you really comfortable with a motorcycle. And before the class I had NEVER been on a motorcycle, so I was a little nervous about getting on one. Also for those of us that are a little apprehensive about motorcycles, I suggest taking the class with a couple of friends. Even if you decide not to ride, it's definitely some fun bonding time in a safe controlled environment. If I hadn't gone with my sis and brother, I might not have been so keen on getting my bike when I was through with it (Also VTwin Mama site helped too). I wanted to give some tips to some of the shorter sisters out there (I'm one of them. Stand 5'3" 120 lbs). My Bandit comes stock height ad 30.5" or something around there. I actually couldn't ride my bike when I first got it because was too high; I got it lowered. If you're thinking of starting on a larger bike, you have to remember, those bikes are REALLY heavy so it helps for them to be lowered enough. The weight doesn't become much of a problem most of the time, but remember to get your bike lowered so you're FLAT FOOTED on the ground. Parking gets to be a P-A-I-N if you aren't. I had mine lowered and I was flat footed but then asked them to pick it up an inch because was worried the bike would bottom out if I hit a bump, or took my sis on the back. Now I wish I didn't. I'm just a touch tip toed, and it's hard to push that bike back into a space. But what a work out on the legs, so maybe it's a good thing? And one last tidbit and question. My first ride was Thursday, right? Well, came home really late, decided to just park my bike on the street in front of my apartment. I get up to go to work the next day and look out to admire my happy black Bandit and... some yellow rat bastard bumped my bike over! PAIN! ANGUISH! Broke the turn signals and scuffed up the fairings and engine. SNIFF!!!! Any suggestions on where to get some parts and stuff? Also some general questions about doing work like replacing the signals (I want to do it myself) Can I just buy any turn signal or is it specific to my bike? Intuitively, it seems like they shouldn't be dependent on my bike. I found this nice site for adding on flush mounted turn signals), so was thinking of putting those on since mine got busted. Also was thinking of getting frame sliders. I looked some of them up, but had a couple of questions. What's a swing arm slider? And are most sliders only installed around the engine area? (Now I'm really happy I got a nekkid bike because now I don't have to drill holes in side/engine fairings because I don't have any. Yay!) Thanks in advance, and HAPPY RIDING to all us new and experienced VTwin friends. Cheers, Lisa Dear
Lisa, So, you lowered the bike and then upped it again. If you don't want to go through that pain again, consider shaving some padding out of the seat or add a little height to your legs by adding some heel to your riding boots (a little goes a LONG way!). Even tippy toe on a bike is doable -- pre-judge your parking accordingly. Slight slant down, do a Y-turn in front of the spot and back it in, slight slant up, just ride it on in! That way you can ride it out or let gravity do the work to help you on your way again! Just park it at the angle that everyone else is parking and it doesn't matter if you're parking with the tail end in or out! Anybody gives you grief, just tell them to beef to me! As to the rat puke who damaged your beloved bike, this stuff happens! So, no more sniffles -- get on with it! Signals have a bolt that slides into the slot and are held in place with a nut and requires a simple adjustable wrench (or specific size and it's always useful to have the basic tools at hand -- a quick trip to any hardware store will result in a nice metric/US set of wrenches for very little mula). Parts can either be obtained from your local dealer (not a bad way to go on your first foray into fixing things), but then, check the Internet by search engine for sites that offer parts for your make/model (good pricing check, but figure in shipping costs). I'm not so clear on the swing arm slider thingy or frame slider for that fact. Readers . . .HELP! The only swing arm I know about is how the rear wheel attaches to the main frame that allows shocks to let the rear end ride with some give (so your rear end doesn't take the road jolts so hard!). Sigh. So much to learn yet! Mama Thursday, April 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, Well, I took the intermediate course on 4/23 on a freezing, drizzly, cold day here in MA, just the way a girl likes it after 17 years. On small 125 Suzuki's. I loved it and took to it with soo much excitement. In the meantime, I was looking at bikes, my wallet and the road. Well ladies, I found a 650 VStar Yamaha left over from 2003 - yes, zero miles and got a great price. So I bought her, now I gotta drive her. I'll tell ya, I'm nervous as a cat up a tree; she's so much heavier, but just as small. BUT, I cannot wait till I get her home to moms yard. (I have an apt) The dealer is 45 minutes away, so my next hurdle is getting someone to drive it to moms house, then she's mine. I'm just going to take it slow. I feel confident, got all the gear, practice what I learned 'all the time in my head, plus I do the hand movements and read to totally understand the manual.' So I'm ready, but jittery too. They have Blessing of the Bikes in a town close by on Mothers Day, now that is something I want to partake in. We can do this!! Oh yeah, go and join a women's riding group, I joined WOW, they are so welcoming and encouraging. Invited me into their group without even joining or having a bike then. I attended a mechanic day for my first visit - another confident booster. WE Can Do This! This is a wonderful website, Godspeed Tracey in Lowell, MA Dear
Tracey, But, and this is a big but (!), do NOT push your luck. If you're not ready in time, then so be it. It'll be there next year for you. I caution you on taking on too much at this time, because a bad experience at this juncture will be more difficult to overcome, and is it really worth it?! You've got a life time of riding ahead of you, so consider this carefully and trust your gut instinct. Why be a cat up a tree when you can be a contended kitty in front of a bowl of milk (at least for now)! Mama Wednesday, April 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Katrina, Wednesday, April 28 Dear
VTwin Mama,
Here are a couple of pictures of my helmet. It is the Fulmer Modus AF-M. I purchased my helmet locally. Angela in Jacksonville, FL Dear
Angela, Wednesday, April 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
MissMax, In basic terms, a piston goes through the intake, compression, combustion and exhaust strokes every two revolutions of the crankshaft, and the piston pins connect the pistons to the crankshaft. So this is pretty important stuff (and even requires a very special tool so that the pistons aren't damaged in the process as they are manufactured to very exacting standards). I would have a heart-to-heart conversation with the mechanic for a detailed explanation of what is happening or happened. Any "jargon" that requires several takes to get the explanation is in order. Have him draw it out if necessary. Then, a breakdown of labor hours and parts is a must. The next step would be to explore the cost of a used system (which parts, what kind of warranties and guarantees on parts and workmanship, etc.). A second opinion from the local dealer (if the mechanic is not affiliated) or seeking out an independent mechanic may be worth your time. You may wish to seek out a discussion forum on the Internet specific to your make/model to see if this is a normal/abnormal occurrence at your stated mileage. Mama Wednesday, April 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Pat, The best and most experienced bikers cannot avoid an idiot cager that crosses their path -- but what they can do is master the handling characteristics of the bike so that they have the best possible chance of avoiding/surviving the problem that is put in front of them. This means learning how to steer, slow down, and maneuver the bike quickly in crisis situations. This means knowing how your bike reacts to the different things you do. Practice is the key. To help you, consider visiting my Reading Sources page -- you'll find an excellent instructional video for sale and books that talk about the entire riding experience, from basics to panic situations. Then, get that bike to an empty parking lot on a quiet Sunday morning, set up cones and markers and begin learning how to make the bike work WITH you! If necessary, build more confidence by signing up for a riding course -- they'll put you on a 250cc bike and put you through your paces. Then, you can take that 600 beastie and practice the same things you learned at the course! Please don't be discouraged -- it takes time, loads of it, to become an accomplished rider -- but if you're willing, it can be done and you'll be in position to enjoy your riding despite the potential dangers out there on the road. Mama Wednesday, April 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
T., First, sell the bike. It sounds all wrong for you. Second, if this not financially feasible, or you really want to stick with it, take a riding course if you have not done so already. They'll put you on a 250cc bike so you can get your feet wet and learn basic skills. Your one month panic riding is not meeting your needs at this time. Third, this bike can be lowered by shaving some of the padding out of the seat, buying a new seat (check the Corbin line) or adding some height to yourself by adding a little bit more heel to your riding boots (a good shoe shop should be able to do this). Fourth, but not least (!), keep the bike, do the above, and learn from it. Then, when you've got some time under your belt, go back to the first suggestion, but now you'll be in position to better judge the make/model that is going to be your dream come true! Check my Motorcycles for Short Riders list for some suggestions! Mama Wednesday, April 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, I borrowed my friends bike which is a 250 Honda Rebel. I couldn't believe how much easier it was to start and stop. The only thing is it's not half as nice to ride, and I felt unstable once I got going about 45 miles/hour. I think because it is so much lighter, and I felt like I was getting blown around on the road. Is there anything I can do to keep the 883 in the UPRIGHT position???? Or should I consider a size between these 2 bikes? Frustrated With My Size Dear
Frustrated, Sure, the Rebel is easier to handle but as you noted, it's not cutting the mustard for your long-range riding goals. My suggestion is to continue working with the Sporty and meanwhile, go shopping! Now that you have identified that which is NOT meeting your needs, it's time to sit on bikes of all makes/models and start getting a feel for what might be out there that will make you jump for joy (hopefully not while you're underway!). The fact is that many riders start with one bike only to discover that it's not right for them for any number of reasons -- your mission is to begin the journey into exploring your options (and it's fun!). Mama Wednesday, April 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, March 2003 recently my Kawasaki Eliminator 600 (1996) developed a flat back tire. As a single woman, I had a male friend who offered to assist-- gave up on his help after 4 weeks of not coming through. After 3 more months I finally found someone willing to trailer the bike (now the 4 carbs were gunked) to another shop. At this shop, the oil was changed, new batter installed, tire patched and carbs. gas-bathed (July 2003). When I got the bike back it was no longer the quiet "stealth bike" I loved but sounded more like a gigantic lawn mower. I questioned it and was informed he deliberately tuned it rich to "blow out" the carbs further. He said he'd adjust it back at my next oil change. A month later, he closed down his shop (rumor has it, the owner's working in a local lumber yard now). One time I succeeded in locating him and he agreed to meet with me on the upcoming Saturday to fix the situation- he was a no-show. I've since called him and he does not answer nor return my calls. In October, while idling in 1st gear after starting up the bike in my driveway, without giving it any gas, suddenly the RPMs redlined around 9000 and I found myself shooting like a rocked towards my closed front gate. The clutch failed, but the front break worked perfectly catapulting me over the handlebars and about 8 feet away from the bike. It did a job on my boots, jeans, gloves, jacket, and full-face helmet, but thankfully, I was not injured. Now here we are in 2004 and in March I finally again succeeded in finding someone willing to help me trailer it to another shop in a nearby town. The estimate came back: $690 JUST TO REDO THE CARBS, with a known $200 in other parts the carbs need not quoted on and no estimate for the repairs of the crash damage (smashed front consoles, bent handle bars, sheered off stop bolt...). The serviceman told me that the extensive work needed was because the last one to work on the carbs had no clue how to properly reassemble them. He also said the sudden launch was a direct result of the improperly assembled carbs. He added that an oil change was also included in the price as there was a lot of gas in the oil. I don't have the funds for these repairs, but also don't think I really should be the one paying for them. I hate the notion of involving a lawyer and no wonder, "is this new shop being straight with me as no one else has been?" Come to think of it, a third question: is there a resource for women to get together and learn how to work on their own bikes? No Name Dear
No Name, My first suggestion is this: stop being an under-educated woman about your own bike! It's time to get a couple of books and learn how a bike works, from the engine to the carbs, to the electrical, etc. No, you do not have to become a full-fledged mechanic, but understanding basic terms, internal workings and the like will be very much to your advantage in the future. Scroll down my Reading Sources page to the book section and you'll see a recommended book by Haynes on this. At the same time, pick up a maintenance manual that is specific to your year/make/model bike so you have a clue. There is simply no excuse for continuing to be at the mercy of others when a little bit of homework will put you "in the know." Next, I would suggest you contact local women's riding groups in your area -- the major organizations are listed on my Cool Links page. This will give you a group to kanoodle with and you'll find out all sorts of interesting things, the least of which may be which mechanics are considered honest and dependable in your area. In some cases, groups have arranged with local dealers shops to host a one day basic course on taking care of their bikes. An Internet search may reveal that a course is available in your area as well -- often times offered in the evenings or weekends over a stretch of time. Way back in the past, I did attempt to put together a list of women mechanics, but it resulted in only one submission, so this didn't work out to well and I've yet to find a source that lists women mechanics across the country. Now, get out there and make it happen for yourself. Riding a motorcycle is a life time learning experience and you've got every reason to go for it! Mama Wednesday, April 28 More for Annie in Orlando who is looking at a number of bikes for purchase: It seems like we have very similar tastes in bikes. I have been pouring over the Internet and dealerships looking for my next ride. I too like the more standard naked bikes. The Moto Guzzi Breva has also caught my eye. It is a very nice looking bike and size-wize it would probably be perfect for you. Unfortunately I think its a bit underpowered at 48 horses for a 750cc. Don't get me wrong, the convenience of a shaft drive, and Italian styling is very appealing. It even looks like a baby version of my beloved R1150R. But If you want something with a little more oomph, I would check out Hondas new 599. 80 hp /400 lbs and the seat is I think 31.5 inches (I'm sure it could be lowered. This is a VERY neat looking bike, but is a little wider in the seat (it has the cb600 4 cyl engine tucked in there) might not be comfy for you if your 5'2 . I'm 5' 5" and I noticed the difference right away. The other bike that has really caught my eye is the Ducati 620 monster -- the monster is IMHO very interesting looking--it grows on me more and more. And not something you see everyday - 620cc /60 hp at 390 or so pounds 30.3 inch seat height. Very comfortable. Comes in some different configurations to fit your budget. If you need something bigger there are two other sizes, 800 and 1000 --the price goes up too unfortunately, but the seat height stays the same and the weight is proportional. Any way, all three of those new are in the $6400- and up
range. I know the SV650 is very highly rated as well as being the
best value in this size/style of bike, but I felt it a little tall for me
too, (and now that I have had the first hand experience of dealing
with a top heavy 535 lb bike, I'm very "weight conscious" LOL) .
So hopefully I haven't confused you more . . . go check out the Honda and
the Ducati and let us know what you think!! Good luck!
Maire (note
from Mama: lots of good information and comparison here -- thanks for
sharing!) Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kelly, Tuesday, April 27 For DeDe who is looking for a pullback riser that is more "back" than "up" for her VStar 1100 I have a VStar 1100 also and just had Baron DT risers added. They pull back the bars about 2 inches without raising them. They were also able to be installed with the original cables. They are available from Cruiser Customizing at the following link. Lynn (note from Mama: oh, this sounds exactly right!) I have a VStar 1100 and I'm 5'3". I added Pro One 4" pull back risers and they're perfect, didn't raise them too much but brought them back to me a lot better. Diane (note from Mama: just type in "Pro One motorcycle risers" in a search engine and you'll find lots of online sources for this product!) I recently bought a V Star 1100 and have the same problem. Darn tendonitis in elbows make riding this bike a pain with short arms. I found pullback "risers" made by Barons that bring the handlebars 2" back and don't raise them up at all. PERFECT! Only thing is they're expensive . . . $164.99 at www.accessoryinternational.com.They're beautiful, made from billet aluminum. The direct link to this item is here. Otherwise you can go to the site and search by brand of bike. (It's cheaper to buy many items here versus the manufacturer direct . . . shhhhhhhh!) They have so many accessories there it'll make your head spin! I'm in heaven! So many sparkly things . . . so little money! I saw an add for pullback handlebars at www.aeromach.net
but I don't think they're going to be any cheaper. I've found many
pullback risers, but none than come as far back as the Barons I listed
above. They others are much less expensive but the farthest I've seen them
come back is 1 3/4 inches. They mostly raise the bars instead. Good luck!
Jennifer (note
from Mama: lots of good info here -- thanks for sharing!) Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Anyway, I wanted to again say THANK YOU to all the ladies who wrote in answer to my initial e-mail way back when. All of their (and yours too Petra!) suggestions were worth their weight in gold. I appreciate all the support. A recurring theme seemed to be therapy. It was very hard to admit that I needed to see a therapist, like many suggested. But I finally gave in and went. Each session was horrible and made me miserable for the rest of the day. Finally after about five sessions my therapist referred me to another one who does EMDR. EMDR is a relatively new procedure used to treat people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In a nutshell EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) combines eye movements mimicking REM sleep with the "patient" thinking about different aspects of the traumatic event. It somehow helps your brain reprocess the memories so that you are able to better deal with what happened. (Google EMDR for a better explanation). There's not much talking involved (thank goodness! I was so tired of just talking about it). It sounded like snake oil to me but I did it and I was amazed with the results. In four sessions I could actually talk about the crash without coming unglued and crying. Don't get me wrong - it required a lot of inner strength and commitment. I'm still working on it now, though I don't go to therapy any more. Each day is a new challenge. I'm still suspicious about EMDR and I feel that it only worked because I wanted it to. The brain is a strange, but powerful thing. Anyway, I feel much better now and best of all I'm back on two wheels! I'm still very cautious about all the cars around me, but here I am. My hubby is back on two wheels too and will be finally going back to work the first week of May; four surgeries and 20 months of physical therapy later. YEA! Also, you had sent me an e-mail from the Lifetime show "What Should You Do?" a while ago [note from Mama: the show contacted me and asked me to put them in touch with Jennifer and her husband for a possible segment]. Well, they finally came out two weeks ago and did an interview with Gary and me. The show isn't scheduled yet, but I will let you know when I find out. They're calling our segment "Cycle Couple" - isn't that sweet! The interview in itself was very therapeutic too for both of us. I'm just leery about what will actually make it into the show. If it doesn't come out right I just want everyone to know that my goal of doing the interview was to educate the public about managing an accident scene. See http://www.accidentscene.net/ if you're interested in learning about what to do if you're involved in an accident or come across one and want to help. This group is comprised of motorcyclists who teach other motorcyclists (and anyone else who's interested) how to assist and not injure a downed biker. Please, I encourage everyone out there to take CPR and First Aid and a class like this if you ride. ASMI is based in Wisconsin, but I noticed they teach all over the country. They will teach you how to remove a helmet, how to lift a bike off a person without injuring them further, how to direct traffic around the crash until police arrive, how to work with the ambulance crew when they arrive, and much, much more! You owe it to yourself and your buddies to be prepared! My hope is that you never need to use the skills you will learn in these classes! End of lecture! : ) Thank you, Petra, for this website. It has been an invaluable aid in every aspect of motorcycling. It's also nice to know there's a place to go to keep in touch with other lady riders, offer and receive comfort, support and encouragement and learn, learn, learn! I will send a picture of my new bike as soon as I stop gawking at it and pull out the camera! Thanks again! Jennifer Dear
Jennifer, As to your own Mom, I can only add that I'd hate for her to learn that you are riding again from a neighbor/friend/relative who happens to see you out and about, so seriously consider breaking that news as soon as possible. I know that it will be hugely difficult, but then ultimately you have to realize that no matter what choices we make in our adult lives, our parents are looking for improvement (!) in us and that there are some things that they will not understand no matter how hard we try to explain our thinking. Give it your best shot. Mama Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
John, Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
JP, Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Pat, Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Gin, Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lois, Tuesday, April 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Rob, Saturday, April 24 For Sue who is looking to add a heel/toe shifter to her VStar 650: I have a Yamaha VStar Classic 650, '03 model and it came
with a heel toe shifter. I'm assuming you can go through your nearest
Yamaha dealer in order to see if that's something you can order from the
manufacturer for your make and model. I don't know for sure, but it's
worth a try. Karen (note
from Mama: so it is possible - thanks for letting Sue know!) Saturday, April 24 More for Snojean who is getting spooked about the steep gravel driveway: Please don't give up. I also have the driveway from hell! Or so I thought it was. My first bike was a Honda 200....second bike was a Suzuki Savage....and current bike is a 650 V-Star. For the first time in 8 years....I was able to maneuver up my driveway and feel good about it. What was different this time? The V-Star has wider tires than the other two bikes. I had always heard that wider tires were better on gravel...Now I am proof positive. They are more forgiving. I don't know what bike snojean rides, but maybe a bike with wider tires would be her answer just as it was mine! Hugs . . . Bootygrandma, aka Betty (note from Mama: many bikes can be outfitted with wider tires for that extra grabbing power -- good point to check on with the dealer!) Saturday, April 24 For Pat who responded to Ann about riding the Suzuki 250: Hey Pat!! I'm in South Austin too! Right off of Brodie Lane in Sunset Valley. I'm a newbie rider with just under 600 miles on my Yamaha VStar Classic. We should ride sometime if your up to it. I'm still on the small roads too so it would be great!! This is the first time that I've seen someone so close to me post on this site. I'm so happy for you! Its quite an accomplishment to have gone as far as you have. I'm glad that you found a bike that works for you! I took the MSF course with TRIC. They were excellent but way out in Hutto (I didn't realize it when I signed up for the class but I'm glad I made the trip out there). I think A+ is down south and they get rave reviews also. The good thing about TRIC is that they practice on no more than 250cc bikes and they even have some 125's. They are easy to ride, not intimidating and for you, just like what you have at home. I hope you have a blast and I hope to see you sometime. Also I don't know if your aware of this but there is a great riding group in Austin called CTXIR (Central Texas Independent Riders). They welcome everyone, and all bikes. They are a fun great group of people. They have women that "ride their own" and that's so inspirational to me. There's never any pressure to keep up with a pack of guys screaming down the road at 80 miles an hour. The people in the group are experienced and more than willing to practice with you and help you understand the art and skill behind safe riding, so that you can enjoy your riding experience even more. I can't say enough about these people. They are fantastic. The best part is the "ride master" is a
motorcycle mechanic. HOW FABULOUS!!! You can find them on Yahoo groups.
They have rides every weekend and meet at Jacks Backyard and Hills Cafe
during the week. Their website has a calendar that will alert you of
everything going on for motorcyclists in Austin and the surrounding area's
for the month. By the way your hubby is terrific for being so supportive.
Kudos to him. Ride safe! Karen (note
from Mama: this just sounds so much fun -- and thank you for letting Pat
know of all the wonderful opportunities to share the riding experience in
your neighborhood!) Saturday, April 24 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
DeDe Saturday, April 24 For Cindy who needs a need glove solution: My first riding gloves were from Walmart in the
children's department and had a tag on them that said "Just like
Dad's." I did not like them and do not like just about any
other gloves because they hurt my hands too. I did find a pretty
good pair last summer though. They are Nike baseball gloves (made
for children of course). The funny thing is when my son (22 year
old) and I went out riding a couple of weeks ago...I found out that he
wears them too....only his is for grownups! Hee Hee. Hope the
suggestion helps. Hugs....Bootygrandma aka Betty
Bootygrandma, aka Betty (note
from Mama: nice and stretchy would be my guess!) Thursday, April 22 For Ann who just bought a Suzuki 250: Just bought the same Suzuki 250 bike -- I highly recommend this bike. The last time I drove a motorcycle was 20 years ago in a parking lot for 15 minutes. This time it took only a few minutes to get the basics down from hubby's instructions (he has a BMW RT 1150).... then I was off! Circled the tiny neighborhood repeatedly (Fri.) and the next day struck out on my own for a 20 mile trip on two lane, mostly empty roads. Sunday, hubby joined me for a 40 mile ride cruising the two lane twisty back roads of south, south Austin. What a blast!!!! Never wanted to return home. He stayed in back to ward off anyone too impatient with my slower speed on the twisty turns. This bike is so incredibly stable I can rearrange myself on the seat while traveling 40 mph. It still feels wonderfully stable at 60. I have now been out on 5 occasions and have put 70 miles on it. That might sound silly to you iron-butt riders, but one must start somewhere! I now drive my car with the view of being on the bike and the strategies needed to keep safe in traffic. I am so incredibly excited about riding - nearly all I think about. While we chose this bike knowing it would be a beginning motorcycle and one that is underpowered for the open, long-distance ride, I also chose it because BOTH OF MY FEET TOUCH THE GROUND!!! (and it's lovely!) At just a smidgeon over 5'2", I love the light weight and low seat of this bike. My husband's BMW at a tall 600+ pounds is very, very intimidating. Yes, I know that there is a 72 year old motorcycle
"mama" in Austin who rides the same BMW, but I'll take learning
how to ride on my own terms and at my own comfort level. I will be
enrolling in the MSF course as soon as possible and someday will go
cross-country. But for now, if you see a short, black motorcycle
with incredibly graceful lines being driven carefully down those two lane
roads, pass with care and patience... in a few years, it will be my
daughter on that bike and I'll be on the bigger one protecting her from
the rear. Pat (note
from Mama: what a delightful letter you have sent -- and chock full of
wisdom for beginning riders who would do well to adopt your attitude and
keen insight into staying true to your own guidelines for learning to
ride. Some of us have many more miles than 70, but I remember my first 70
quite well! A combination of omigosh and tingling thrills. And then it
just got better! Kudos to you Pat and thanks for sharing your specific
thoughts on this model bike.) Thursday, April 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Sue, Thursday, April 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, I think that your site is down right great. I'm really glad to see that there are a lot of women out there that feel independent enough to enjoy riding. This really isn't a question, it's more of an invite. I started a group in yahoo called Trike Builders and if anyone would like to join please feel free to do so. Thanks for this great site. I'll come back in the future that's for sure! Curtis Dear
Curtis, I'll post this info on my Trikes page and noted to Curtis that my Disabilities and Medical page contains links that might prove useful in forging ahead with the dream to ride some day. Mama Thursday, April 22 For Annie who is looking at a number of bikes for future purchase: What a coincidence, I was interested to see Annie's thoughts about the Suzuki SV650 and the Moto Guzzi Breva 750. Beginning to feel a wee bit like I'm out-growing the Blast (except for commuting), I have been looking at those two bikes also. Ultimately I ruled out the Breva because in riding position and engine displacement it is so much like the Triumph Bonneville which I continue to love. The Bonnie's great for long rides, a real lady, very well-behaved. I'm keeping her. We rode 150 miles last Sunday just because it was gorgeous weather, and I wasn't stiff at all afterwards. The problem started when Bob let me ride his Buell Lightning last weekend and IT WAS GREAT! so now I've got the bug for something sporty. The SV650 is getting rave reviews and is a Top Ten pick
in Cycle World but the 2004 doesn't seem to have been released yet.
Major difference between 2003 and 2004 is the subframe for the seat has
been lowered a bit (if that makes any difference to Annie, but it's mainly
for the passenger seat) and you get blue or yellow, instead of 2003's
blue or silver. Now I just have to win the lottery.
Sarah (note
from Mama: thank you for sharing your research and thoughts on these
models and I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you on the whole "I
base my financial future to buy another bike on the lottery" thing!) Thursday, April 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, I'm 5'4", 165lbs, pretty strong, and a beginner. I've never owned a bike before but am itching to ride. My tastes lie within the Triumph/Moto Guzzi/BMW world and I want to spend a maximum of $5500. Also, I live in Brooklyn, NY (which explains why I want a bike . . . to get out of this friggin city!), so I need a bike that I can hold up in travel. I read your "short list" and am really interested in the Bonneville and BMWs. I, of course, know what the Bonnies look like but haven't found pics of the BMWs. I'm very interested in the Moto Guzzi California series but I have a very strong feeling that those are way too expensive for my blood. Also, weight plays an important factor. Could a girl like myself handle the weight of a Bonneville or perhaps the Thunderbird? What about the BMWs and Moto Guzzis? Do you have any words of wisdom to give to me? Katrina Dear
Katrina, Now that I've gotten that over with (!) . . . beginning riders can handle just about any bike size they think they can! The key is twofold: 1) take a riding course to get your feet wet and 2) upon purchase of any bike, practice, practice, practice in a safe place with lots of room to learn the handling characteristics of the bike! In addition, you might find that books and videos on the subject useful to get some knowledge under your belt about all things riding-related. VTwin Mama sister Sarah will tell you that the Bonnie is a great bike, but some practice on a smaller bike is highly recommended, while VTwin Mama sister Marina will attest to the awesome ride-ability of the Moto Guzzi California Stone, and I myself have loved riding my friend's BMW 750 (within limits, as it's a bit cramped in the leg area for my 5'10" frame). Here is the link for the BMW site -- just click on the individual bike models for pictures, specifications and pricing info! Now, chuck the price thought and concentrate on choosing the make/model that you just "know" is right for you (slobbering every time you see one is a key indicator!) -- and if your preferred model is "pricey" then consider looking for used models for sale! Happy shopping and welcome to the wonderful world of riding -- we're glad you found this site and hope you visit often! Mama Thursday, April 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jesse, Thursday, April 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, You'll be amused to hear that I've cut at least 45 minutes off the time it takes me to adjust my valves (did it for the second time just this morning), and my improved time (1.25 hours) includes getting out and putting away the tools! What fun it is to do maintenance with a round of experience behind me! Tomorrow morning I'll change out the tranny fluid and then it's off to see whether I want to try to install an appliance socket on my own (I think the BMW shop is maybe the place for me to look in to this accessory). I'm always a bit iffy on the electrical stuff. Next week I'm riding to Atlanta (looks to be about 800 miles from Dallas/Fort Worth), so I had better not attempt anything too crazy before then! Thanks for the great site! Marina Dear
Marina, Wednesday, April 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, April 4: I am sooooo excited about my new bike. First of all, I had enrolled in Riders Edge and left about half-way through, I felt like a cluck, stalled the Buell Blast (500cc) repeatedly, ( so- FINE-C I know). Half clutched the poor thing right up to the point of my departure, never got out of 1st gear. On the positive side, I never dropped the bike, and was not asked to leave due to reckless behavior or lack of aptitude, and found riding in a straight line even in first gear was a wow experience. I was just tired and frustrated and decided I'd had it for the day. In retrospect, I would not have done anything differently in that regard. Of course, on the way home it was tear time-but only because of a feeling of personal failure. At home I had to tell the whole thing to hubby, who listened patiently, but I could tell he was disappointed. I think we had the shared vision of riding the roads together. I have to say Petra, I'm not totally convinced Riders Edge or even MSF is for people who have never ridden a motorcycle. Heck, I had never driven an stick-shift car. [note from Mama: this last point was brought up previously: that many riding courses are in fact safety courses, not learn to ride courses, but what are you going to do in the absence of another course offering?!] Anyways, the next day I decided I would ask hubby if he would teach me the basics of riding a bike. I think folks who have never ridden a bike need more individual instruction then MSF or R.E can provide. He agreed to give it a try, provided after I got the basics down, I would enroll in MSF, and I will, I think it's important from a safety standpoint. Then we started looking at bikes, Hubby rides a Harley Softail, so I sat on Harleys (Sportsters, Fatboys, Dynas) they all felt incredibly heavy and were $$$$$ and felt intimidating. I mean yikes, what if I hated riding, that's a lot of bucks sitting in the garage. Then I sat on Hondas, the Rebel-too cramped-but it didn't feel intimidating, Shadow-felt great, not too heavy, then sat on an Aero-again felt great. Sat on Yamahas-650 Roadstar Classic-sweet, and the Virago 250-not bad. Sat on a Suzuki Savage, didn't feel bad-but I just felt kind of neutral about it, then I saw a GZ 250 sitting at the end of the line (250cc's are often at the end of the line) and sat on it, in my head I'm thinking: "yep its small, but gosh its comfortable, I don't feel intimidated by it." Asked hubby, how I looked on it? Meaning, do I look comfortable? But in my head I thought "you're mine, you're coming home with me and I'm naming you, " The Black" (from the Black Stallion books)...and you know once you give it a name-you're a dead duck. [note from Mama: or a happy camper!] Then back home, researched the Internet for road reviews and found a review of all three 250cc bikes within the same article. Of course the reviewers were all experienced bikers and so maybe they weren't to impressed by the 250cc's but the article gave good information on all three. But the GZ received a thumbs up in the article. Then we went back and my hubby test road the bike, of course he felt a 250 is underpowered, and I think really wanted me to get a larger bike (the Shadow or Shadow Spirit-even if they weren't HD) he strongly feels I'll get bored quickly with the 250, but I think he also realized I can always move up, but if I get a bike that scares the crap out of me-well that would seal it-I'd never ride the roads with him. [note from Mama: smart man and just the right note here!] So, I bought it. It's all mine-hubby is not on the title, I'm having an engine guard put on it. Pick it up next Saturday. We cleaned out the garage so we'd have room for both bikes. I'm riding the parking lots until I reach a level of confidence in my abilities where I want to move up. My process was probably no different then it is for anyone male or female picking out a first ride. Your site and the Beginner Bike site were instrumental in providing good, sound advice and bringing clarity to that process. In a nutshell: Know your skill level, be safe, ride safe, nothing is set in stone, you can always move up to a more powerful bike or down to a less powerful bike, there is no glory or shame either way...and Ride your own ride!!! In a way, I guess you could say we chose each other. Ride Safe! Ann Dear
Ann, Wednesday, April 21 For LM who went from a Route 66 to a Marauder and got some comments: Timmy and his insensitive Dad can take a hike. And
anyway, it sounds like Dad didn't know what he was talking about. Let's
hope he doesn't get the poor kid killed. I was on vacation with friends
last summer when I realized the 600 (VLX) I started on was just too much
bike for me to learn from scratch. Most things were okay, but there were
situations in which the weight still worked against me. After stating that
I would be looking for a smaller bike to putt around on for a while-- and
this was a painful decision for me-- we were at a bike rally in Lynchburg
and saw some really small cruisers (for starting kids-- hey, Timmy...).
One of our female friends (who is a new rider) said "Hey Linda, is
that about your speed?" This from someone who is supposed to be a
friend. Indeed. Wednesday, April 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Cat, Wednesday, April 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Ron, Wednesday, April 21 For Newbie who is exploring goggle options: My husband and I recently purchased visors with a mirror finish. They really aren't darker, just reduces the glare. No more need to wear ill fitting "shades" since I can't seem to find any that fit me! We were out the other A.M. before daylight and the visors did not darken they just minimized the glare from headlights...something I welcome! Rhonda from Springfield, MO (note from Mama: thanks for the input on this subject -- it's greatly appreciated and sounds like a real winning combination!) Wednesday, April 21 For Lone Star who wanted opinions of 250cc bikes: I started on a 600, had some mishaps (putting it
mildly), and after taking the MSF course, backtracked to a Virago 250. I'm
just under 5'3", never rode a bike before the VLX, could balance a
bicycle but never drove a stick (at least not enough to master it), not
athletic, not terribly coordinated but can LEARN the physical stuff with
repetition. I have ridden three of the so-called trainer bikes and
here are my opinions, for what it's worth. Tuesday, April 20 For Snojean who is getting spooked about the steep gravel driveway: Chin up girl! You didnt even drop the bike, which is
more than most of us can say! I snapped my mirror off trying to back out
of a gravel driveway and lived to ride another day. Get out on those
country roads THIS weekend. I live in Tuesday, April 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
HDRyder, As to the trip itself, I'd say, as long as the group is comfortable with making allowances for your needs (maybe more frequent stops so you don't fatigue and always having someone responsible for accounting for your "keep up ability and position in the group" and maybe readjusting speed/etc. for your ability level), then you've got a good riding group. Gauge how that weekend ride goes and then don't be afraid to say what you truly think you can handle. Pretending that you can manage that longer ride, when in fact you find that it might be too much, would be the mistake. Sit it out and practice some more until you're ready. If you find your comfort level is within your "good gut feeling," then go for it! Just never be afraid to say how you're actually doing! One more thing, click over to my Riding Techniques -- Group Riding page to read up on what you should know -- good postings and there's a link to a great article as well! Mama Tuesday, April 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Maggie, Tuesday, April 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Cindy, |
