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Wednesday, August 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Barbara, Wednesday, August 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Garry, Wednesday, August 4 For Russ who is adamant that it's "not what you ride": This subject also gets me in the gut. Education is the key to knowledge. I would advise all people who are new to riding to check out this web site. http://home.earthlink.net/~rcvsmc-edu/index.html It is information to guide the members of the Motorcycle community with information that will assist in understanding motorcycling organizations that share the roadways. All of us who ride will eventually meet other people who ride either in a bar, on the road, rally's or where ever you ride your bike. By reading this you will understand what Russ is talking about when he says he is "neither and officer or outlaw". There are rules to the road when you ride:) Ride Safe and Ride Often. – ST (note from Mama: what a great site! I'm adding the link on my Cool Links page and will feature it in my next Newsletter!) Wednesday, August 4 Hey Mama, Dear
Rose, Wednesday, August 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, I wrote a few months ago about a problem with my foot configuration. Could not get used to my pegs and also had the problem of burning my heels on my pipes.. Thanks to your site Sandy L. from Lexington, Ky. solved my problem. Thank you Sandy!!! I ordered the pegs that she recommended from J.P. Cycles. I love them!!!!! NO more burning heels! I also had the handlebars rotated a little more forward, (thanks to your site) plus had my baffles removed from my pipes. She sounds so sweet. Thanks so much....... When I first wrote to you I did not mention that I am 56 and a new rider. I took the motorcycle course without telling my husband. Had never ridden before. I passed and got my license after spending the weekend on small bike. You know what I'm talking about. My husband was so elated that he ran out and bought me a 1450cc Harley. Well, we both know that two days in a safety course does not a rider make........ My new bike scared the crap out of me!!!!!!Your site and I'm not kidding has saved me from so many simple mistakes that I would have never known about had I not read about them. I have put 2000 mi. on her this year. Have dropped her twice. (Luckily both times standing still!) I am getting more confidence all the time and were it not for all the kind people that share info on your site and make one realize that they are not alone and you can look back and laugh at your mistakes, I think that I might have thrown in the towel. As it is now I hope that I will be riding into my seventies. Thank you so much. The main reason for this letter is that next Thursday we will be heading for Sturgis. We are from Maine. Wondering if you will be there. Will you have a booth????? If so, would love to meet you. Also if you post this many thanks to Sandy L and want her to know I have named my bike Sandy!!!! Kudos to all the sisters out there. You are never to old to pursue your dream and discover the freedom of the road. No matter where it takes you. – LowRider Dear
LowRider, Unfortunately, VTwin Mama is still
very much in “her” infancy (even after three years) and so road trips
to even the bigger rallies is not on the radar scope financially.
Hopefully this winter I’ll have the chance to really sit down and figure
out how to take this site and realize my dream (working on the site
full-time) with some sort of financial backing or non-profit status or . .
. or . . . who the heck knows! Then, having a booth at the biggee shows
and traveling around would be more of a reality. Wednesday, August 4 Dear
Mama, Dear
Soccermom, Although I cannot speak from
experience of having children, I feel that there is an extra component to
your riding, in that you have children who are counting on you to be
there, and there is always an inherent risk in riding. Thus, I can see
where your questions on length and timeline of the “fear factor” are
high on your list of “what’s what.” The key to minimizing fear and
becoming the best rider possible is practice. If traffic makes you
nervous, then stay out of it until you are better prepared. You can do
this by choosing quieter times of the day to get the bike to an empty
parking lot for practice. If you’re ready for traffic, but have the
jitters, then preplan a route by car so you can gauge any road
construction, blind curves, really icky traffic lights, etc. Wednesday, August 4 Hello
again VTwin Mama, Dear
Chrome Broom, The biker hand wave is highly
individual and there is no right or wrong. In fact, a head nod is
considered highly acceptable, although is less visible and therefore can
be construed as stuck-up if the other rider misses it. Here’s a fun look
at the subject. I myself like a 45 degree angle down
with flat palm and all fingers extended. For kicks however, I often
utilize the “Queen’s wave” which is a real art form . . . scroll
down this page to the picture titled, “Royal Wave from the Train,”
and then imagine just twisting your hand at the wrist slightly left and
right. That’s the Queen’s Wave and is highly unnerving to the
uninitiated rider, but great for fresh rider reaction! Thursday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Eric, Thursday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
NN, Thursday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Judy, One thing I also like to do is clamp
my knees tight around the tank and see that my hips/knees/lower body can
really maneuver the bike around a bit (try a little lean and you’ll see
what I mean!), making it easier to understand that a death grip on the
handlebars is simply not necessary (and quite detrimental in some cases
like loose gravel, grooved pavement and sand!). Thursday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
J.P., Thursday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Mitch, Given that the Kawi/Yami/Honda bikes are usually offered by the same dealer, you might really want to shop dealers within a 100 mile radius to see who is going to be best on price, offer discounts on accessories/modifications at the time of sale, whose service department appears to be motivated to assist their customer base, etc. Is a sale coming up on one or the other models? Are additional riding lessons included? What accessories/modifications might be made as part of the deal? Also, hop onto this site for some road test information – it might be helpful to read about the actual performance characteristics on the road! Then, be prepared to purchase maintenance manuals so that you can start taking care of these beasties the right way, right away! Check my Reading Sources page for Internet sites that offer these! – Mama Thursday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Christle, Thursday, August 5 For Itchin' who got a strange reaction when admiring a Savage 650: I just had to chime in again about the Suzuki Savage 650 . I rode this bike for years, and thought it was the perfect starter bike. It has a lot of power and you sit very low to the ground. I had gone to buy a Honda Shadow, but saw the Savage. It was CHEAP, had a belt drive and I thought it looked cooler. Sounding like a toaster? I never heard that. It didn’t sound great when I first bought it, in fact it had no sound at all! I put on a slash cut straight pipe and re-jetting the carb, which cost less than $100, and it sounds goooood now. If you don’t have the carburetor jetted right, it does backfire like the forth of July. That was the only problem I ever had with it, and it was an easy fix. I am thinking of turning into a dirt drag bike, because I know it could kick some butt! I am glad you escaped the fire Mama, – DIJ (note from Mama: thanks for the input again with details! Readers, Mama's house was a mile away from a major wild fire that was really horrible, but all is well and I'm just now getting back to a routine!) Just wanted to share a couple of thoughts on the Savage 650 you and your friend were looking at for a starter bike. This is the bike we bought, yes 2 identical bikes (black) as starter bikes in 2003. In my humble opinion, I would say it was a great choice. They are a very quiet bike, as Mama said "that can be remedied with some new pipes, they do have a tendency to backfire but that is normal with a Savage. They are a big single cylinder bike and the decompression from that cylinder comes out as a backfire. You should only notice the backfire on deceleration. Now, for the part about turning up their noses at the Savage, I would bet money they have never even ridden one. This is one of the most fun bikes I have ever ridden. They are easy to handle, lightweight and low to the ground so you never feel as though you are out of control. This bike is also pretty quick for a 650. I wouldn't recommend a lot of freeway driving but if you are thinking about it in terms of a starter bike for the back roads, just toolin' around town or commuting, then I say go for it. Besides as the saying goes....It's not WHAT you ride, it's THAT you ride, that counts. Just an FYI, I test rode a 2002 Honda A.C.E. 750, which is a twin cylinder, and opted to stay with the Savage 650 because I didn't see any big difference in power or sound for that matter! Loud pipes are a preference, but they can help alert drivers to your presence. Hope this helps some, if you have any other questions about the Savage I would be glad to answer them if I can. Good luck in your search and ride safe!! – Lou : ) (note from Mama: you're a peach for sharing detailed thoughts -- it's greatly appreciated!) Thursday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Chris, This is a fun
little article to read so you know you are not alone, and here
is another one! Too high and you’re trying to look
through bug smush, too medium and the wind whips into your face, too low
and what’s the point?! Too narrow and air still buffets your arms, too
wide and the drag is much higher. So, what to do? Well, decide what it is you are trying
to achieve! For example, I just learned that I could extend the height of
the windshield on my friend’s BMW by an inch by adding edging and
finally get it to stop flowing air into my eyeballs! I would only know
this having ridden the bike and realizing the impact on my exact height
and normal sitting position. For my friend, it’s perfect (but she’s
6” shorter than me!). Friday, August 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Here's something I want to share with you and all the gals who ride. I just finished reading, "Breaking the Limit: One Woman's Motorcycle Journey Through North America" by Karen Larsen. (Hyperion Books) I couldn't put it down. She travels from New Jersey to Alaska and back. What a trip.There's something in the book for everyone. My husband's reading it now, and is enjoying it very much. Well, I can't wait for 5 to go home and check out your site. I see you have an area for crash stories. I'm a survivor of a nasty crash. Maybe I'll get the courage to share that story. Keep up the good work. – Terry V. (Stuck in L.A.) Dear
Terry, On another note, my Accident Survivor page is very important to the site -- it's a place for people to share their stories and insights and ask for support. Yes, it takes tremendous courage to relive the event and share it, but if you feel it will benefit not only yourself, but other readers as well, we look forward to hearing from you again. – Mama
Friday, August 6 For Ohio Rider who experienced a rear seat bolt problem: This is my first letter. In reference to the Ohio Rider, I own a '01 V-Star 650 Classic and was installing a new saddlebag. I discovered that the bolt that held the back seat was loose. How long it was like this, I don't know. But possibly some lock tite could solve the problem which is, in my opinion caused by the vibration of the long fender. Thanks, – Joe from Deep South Texas (note from Mama: thanks for taking the time to share Joe -- all information is useful!) Friday, August 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, To Judy, congratulations, I've got 65 miles on my new Honda 750 Spirit and you should be proud to have been on the freeway, I'm maybe a week away from there... still cruising Milwaukee River Parkway and Lake Drive. – Lynn-Twnyy1 Dear
Lynn, The choice to wave is personal. Some hardcore riders do not wave, some sporty bikers do not wave, some people in general do not wave. Do not take this personally. Some just lift their fingers without moving their hand, some just nod. The wave is optional and one should always consider that in heavy traffic, or trickier road passages, it's most important to concentrate on your ride versus the nicety of the wave. As a new rider, only release your left hand if you are comfortable doing so. Over time and improved riding skills, you'll be able to wave at just about any given moment! An added note: truck drivers and motorcyclists still share a comraderie on the road, mainly because both consider the other group as people who love being on the road. If I'm on an empty stretch of road and pass a trucker, I always raise my hand in greeting just as I pass the driver's door and hold it till I've passed by a few seconds. Should you ever be in trouble on the road, many truckers will come to the aid of a rider (remember that they've got the CB radios to call for assistance). \\\\_ Friday, August 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Although
some portions of the class moved rather slowly, we had made our goal to
absorb everything we could in the three day class. The temps on the
motorcycle range were 100 to 102 degrees with full sun.
Believe me, it was HOT!! On
completion and passing of the course we had taken away a new sense of
safety awareness, foundational maneuvering cycle skills and a heightened,
but not arrogant self confidence. Mostly,
we know that there is more to learn, experience on the road is the true
teacher and to use the defensive skills we learn to better assure our
ability to achieve that experience. What a great investment of our money
and time. Dear
Kerry, Friday, August 6 For Jacque who is looking for input on biker customs: Your questions are valid and yes there are meanings to each of your questions. I want to know is there an international unwritten language for bikers? Yes, more so for Harley owners then any other type of bike. What does it mean to have the passenger pegs down? You put your pegs down when riding in a procession for a fallen rider. It shows respect, like the when they put the boots on backwards in the stirrups of the Commanding Officer's horse. Otherwise you should always ride with your passenger pegs up, for safety. You don't want those suckers getting caught on anything. What does <-----------> mean? I don't know what this is. What does having your helmet on the curb in front or in back of your bike mean? If you break down and need help, put your helmet on the ground by your bike. One big hint, if you go to any big rally never, never put your helmet hanging on your handlebars. It will either be stolen or full of trash when you get back. Otherwise, most people have a bike lock or they put them on their tanks or seats. In the MSF course they teach us to put them on the ground near our bikes. This is great if it is not in the rain, in the mud, dirt or gravel. Last but not least how do you wave properly? In the Harley world we have a special hand wave, point one finger down when passing a fellow biker. If the rider coming towards you is pointing repeatedly towards the ground it means that there is debris in the road ahead. Otherwise, people in general just wave. All this and more interesting Harley facts are in this link. Check it out, it is long reading I'll have to warn you, but worth the reading. I am old school and this is from the good ole days, when the sky was blue and the grass was green. It has interesting tidbits like "when you lead a ride don't spit", this one I like "You'll know she loves you if she offers to let you ride her bike and she will love you even more if you don't," or "sometimes it can take a full tank of gas before your head is straight." – ST from NC, 883 Harley Owner (note from Mama: I was sooo fascinated by the information and wanted to make sure it didn't get lost on my site, so I've started a new page called Biker Symbology! I won't attempt to find all the previous material on the site that fits the bill, but will move it as I find it. Thanks for sharing!) Saturday, August 7 More on biker waves and other symbology: We've got a lot of riders in our area: most will wave, some (often the H-Ders) just give the quick nod (easier to see if they're wearing helmets). At first I wondered whether they'd wave 'cause I'm riding a scooter (albeit a 400cc displacement model)--no worries. Whether from H-Ders, Honda GWers or the sports bike dudes, the waves keep on a-rollin'. I usually wave like you--palm forward, hand outstretched below handlebar--though it depends on what road conditions I'm amidst. As you said, the bottom line is we're all two-wheeling it. :-) (I also wave to cops...figure it can't hurt if they see a rider wearing the proper gear, following the rules of the road.) – Bryna (note from Mama: I wave at cops on bikes as they are part of the overall riding community, so to speak. Bottom line is, if your inclination is to wave, then do so without worrying about the response you get back. You are acknowledging the other rider and that's always a good thing!) I've found in my forum use, etc. that people use <______> as like a hug or respects to someone who has passed on to blue skies and sunny days. Kind of like the online hugs - ((petra)). I don't think the wave has more significance to Harley riders, but I don't ride a Harley, so what do I know. – Terri in Baltimore (note from Mama: apparently with all my time online you would think I'd know the hug symbology, etc. Thanks for sharing this as a possible meaning. As to the wave being more Harley-oriented, well, I think for many years Harleys dominated the riding scene, so it's natural that it was developed by those particular riders, but it still means, "Hey, good to see you riding, that's cool!" Therefore, it's appropriate for anyone on any type of bike if they wish to use it!) Saturday, August 7 From Christle who was looking to lower her Ninja 250: Yes, I have [found a solution] thanx, at www.adjustmenttech.com. They were able to lower it three inches. – Christle (note from Mama: this is the same company that helped Wally with his Ninja 500. I'll make sure to add this information to my Lowering Kits page!) Saturday, August 7 From Mitch who is deciding between a VStar and Honda Aero: If I were to ride both the Yamaha VStar and the Honda Aero, would I notice the additional 100ccs of power in the Honda? Thanks. – Mitch (note from Mama: a soon to be new rider like yourself may not find it immediately apparent, but over time you would most likely find that the extra ccs would make your ride a bit more comfortable at higher speeds. You would be "topping out" on the power at a higher speed (so at cruising speed, you would be working the engine less on the higher power bike and would have less feeling that you're at the end of the power range of the bike, and the engine sound would be less "strained.") You noted that your wife and you were looking to do shorter rides together and not interested in highway cruising, so this may not be a huge consideration, but there it is!) Saturday, August 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
James, Most carbs have low and high speed needle (sometimes the high speed needle is called a throttle stop screw) adjustment, but there may be an intermediate speed needle as well. You attach a tachometer to the engine according to manufacturer's instructions so that you can monitor the rpms at each stage of adjustment. The exact sequence is noted in the service/maintenance manual specific to the make/model of the bike you have. Visit the local dealer to see if they have one in stock or check my Reading Sources page for Internet sources of manuals. – Mama Saturday, August 7 For Rose who is noodling out how to do better in curves: I to had a bit of trouble in cornering. I was always worried about going off the road. I never actually read about pushing out on the hand grip, I felt it one day when I was turning (wish I had thought of looking it up thou = ) Also when going into a turn or corner, don't look where you don't want to go, rather look to where you want the front tire of your bike to go. The bike tends to go where you are concentrating on. I am fairly new to riding myself. My dad taught me how to ride a 2002 Honda Rebel, he took me to a empty parking lot and I learned how to turn corners and using the parking spot line painted on the ground I learned how to make sharper turns, although I never used cans or balls which I never thought of! Thou now I am a new proud owner of a 2001 Honda Shadow, it's back to the parking lot for me !! For Andrea who is looking at bikes: I am 5'5 , and my sister learned on the same bike; she is about 5'3 and a very light weight. Now I am the bigger of us 2 and I had an easier time handling the bike, but she did great as well. The bike was on the small side for my overall frame, but it is a very very good bike. It got up to about 75 mph , anything over that it tended to feel a little bit wooblie. It corners great, handles real well. I loved it . Had it not been that I was a bit large for the bike I would of kept it. I got bout 110 miles to a tank before having to switch over to reserve. The cons, it is only a 250 cc engine, so doesn't have a ton of get up and go. I was left behind when riding with a friend he has a 750 cc bike. But other than that I can't think of anything really wrong with this bike. They sell tons of stuff you can put on a Rebel: saddle bags, wind screen, etc. Good luck in your choice on a bike !! – Tara (note from Mama: looking to where you WANT to go is an important concept in handling curves -- thank you for the reminder! I'm so proud of you on your adventure in riding and appreciate all the other input you've taken the time to share!) Saturday, August 7 More for Itchin' who got a strange reaction when admiring a Savage 650: I have always advocated (for myself and others) that the choice of motorcycle is individual and personal. It should be based on the balance of the bike and the frame of your body and your riding style. Brand is important when considering performance, maintenance, style, cost. But given the after-market pipes, etc, what comes out of the exhaust can be altered. Yes, BMW's can sound like a Singer sewing machine and some Suzuki's whine. But if the motorcycle fits YOU, that's what's important. I still go to the motorcycle shows and do demo rides on different brands. I have ridden 8 different brands over the years and have always owned Hondas -- because they fit my body, my style of riding and the balance of the bike means I don't have to muscle it. I guess riding for 43 years adds a little bit of perspective to the opinion. – Linda and her Magna in Texas (note from Mama: well said!) Monday, August 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Anyhow -- I purchased the bike cover from RepairManual.com site for $12.95. All it is - is a huge plastic garbage bag! I would not recommend it to anyone. It's going back. OK for a dust cover for the winter in a garage but not outside in the weather. Vent holes are barley there, what is there would let water in, and condensation would be really bad! Also there is no way to secure it to the bike - it would blow off real quick here in Central PA. Remember the old saying - "you get what you pay for!" On my husband's bike he uses a DOWCO cover with heat shields. Cost $100. You can put the cover on your bike almost immediately. It was well worth the investment. Keep up the good work! You are appreciated! – Pam from Central Pennsylvania Dear
Pam, Monday, August 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, One good story for you. My friend is a young mother of a 7 and 5 year old and one year old twin girls. Their father died on the 5 year old's birthday. She just bought herself a Rebel and took the course. We ride together now and it's great therapy for her. Keep Lora in your prayers. Thanks for the website! – Muffin Dear
Muffin, Riding is indeed very therapeutic to many. Thank you for telling us a bit of Lora's story . . . there is a lot of inherent sadness in it, but glad to hear that you're sharing something with her that has real meaning in our lives. – Mama Monday, August 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jay, I assume you've checked the carbs' air filter and replaced or cleaned it. Any chance that the fuel filter has sediment in it? Or the plug wires are on their last legs? Have you run carb cleaner in your gas tank? That's all I can think of at this point. – Mama Monday, August 9 For Megthered who ponders on some riders choice of minimal clothing: Well Mama, as my husband tells me ... he dresses for the crash not the ride. Most of these guys will get together late at night and ride well beyond the legal speed limit when traffic is at its lightest. The group I know are very skilled riders and they like to do stunts. This group tries to take the public's best interest into mind when they do ride, for instance, discussing club rules for we will ride in an organized fashion and not cut in front of cars. (they realize that they need to keep the public from panicking when they see 30 to 40 bikes speeding towards them). Lets face it these bikes are built for speed. They are actually enjoyed when doing 80 mph or better. For that reason my group will get together and go to Hallet, OK to ride on the track to really let loose where it is legal to go that fast. As far as riding shorts and flip flops with a helmet suggest to me that rider was out during the day when he knew traffic was at its highest, and was taking an easy stroll to him. Surely later at night the Space gear comes out and he is in full leathers or least jeans and boots. We have had some riders go down because they are riding so fast, at night time and the roads they ride on are back roads with loose gravel. I have seen one guy go down at 135mph and walk away with just a scratch because he was wearing his full gear. We preach the full gear even in the summer time when it is 100 degrees. At least we will not get sun burnt.. lol. I can not personally approve of such speeds on main roads. I like my cruiser personally and like to take it easy and see the sights. Take care Mama! – Ladykruzer (note from Mama: you bring up an interesting point: that perceived lighter traffic or slower solo riding means lighter gear wear to some riders. Yes, sometimes I'm riding in only a T-shirt with a leather vest (well, ok, there's pants and boots too!). It's a risk for sure. The problem overall all of course is that crap can happen at any time and any place to a rider and if they don't think so, they'll eventually learn the hard way. Sigh. I know in the end each rider must decide for themselves the balance of gear to risk.) Monday, August 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Correen, You would do well to immediately go get the service/maintenance manual for your year/make/model bike. Even if you decide not to learn to wrench on it yourself, at least you would have a "heads up" on some of the troubleshooting guidelines, frequency of routine maintenance, and even get a smattering of how-it-works know-how. Check for Internet sources for manuals by visiting my Reading Sources page or call your local dealer to see if they have one in stock or will order one for you. – Mama Monday, August 9 And more on "are we rednecks because we ride" thing: I laugh every time I read the letters about motorcycle riders being rednecks. I live in Oklahoma, where 80% of the people are rednecks and they don't ride motorcycles! Rednecks here are the ones who drive Chevys, Fords or Dodge. They drink, chew and listen to c&w. I ride horses and my motorcycle. When I mention I ride my horses, I get alright! what kind do you ride, do you rope or team pen, or whatever? When I mention I own a bike, I get this weird look, am told I don't look like a Harley rider (to which I reply, I know, I ride a Honda Shadow Spirit) and then I am asked, do you have a tattoo also? (to which I reply, yep, 2 of them) I am a 48 yr old nurse, started riding 3 yrs ago (haven't ridden much this year, but am working on it) and don't consider my self a redneck or a wild, crazy biker. I am a woman who finally reached a time in her life to do what I want to do for ME! And part of that is riding my Purple Gypsy and enjoying life. I too have reached a place in my life that I don't need the approval of everyone around me to do what I have always wanted. The letters from the women who write to your site inspire me, especially all the ones around my age who are starting to ride for the first time. I am starting to see more and more women riding their own in Oklahoma and it does my heart good. I truly enjoy your newsletter and reading this website every week. Keep it up ladies, and God be with each of you when you are out riding! – Snoma (note from Mama: that's the spirit sister! Labels have never been a woman's friend; they have confined us, constricted us and made sure that in many cases we felt that we couldn't pursue our own dreams. Although the battle might be consider won, I still find that I need to clarify that I am an individual person with her own thoughts, feelings and needs. I'm sure at moments I have classic redneck tendencies and in others, I'm just insane. Hee, hee, I just try to remember the core essence of myself and let the rest of them catch up!) Monday, August 9 For Andrea who is looking at SV650s: When I was shopping for the SV650 two dealers said it is an easy matter to lower the bike both front and back. One even said he likes the way the bike handles better after he did the forks only on his own SV650. I'm riding mine stock right now and have been completely frustrated in my attempts to get a lower and springier seat. Corbin is not ready to make one for the 2004 (which is not identical to the 2003) and that was an unexpected hassle as they had been very accommodating before. They sent me a 2003 and of course it didn't fit. Then they just didn't respond to any attempts to contact them... email, letter, phone call... for two months until I requested a manager. Meanwhile Suzuki makes a gel seat that lowers the driver. It would be quite comfy (I sat on one made for the Hayabusa) but my dealer says Suzuki is being very mysterious about accessories for the 2004. They aren't ready yet either, it would seem. The bike is so light and easy to handle I'm doing fine for now with the 31 1/2 seat height (or at least, I was three weeks ago when I was last able to ride...SOB). I am 5'5" and I expect Andrea might find that seat height a bit daunting. I love the bike and recommend she let the dealer lower it for her. She should still have plenty of clearance for most riding situations. Regards, – Sarah (note from Mama: thank you for sharing this level of detail on your experiences -- it's always helpful to have this first hand knowledge response!) Tuesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Well, I did it on my 51st birthday (guess you can teach an old dog new tricks after all) -- I went and got my motorcycle license. Today I drove High Life from our home in TN to my new place in AL., only 60 miles, but I felt like I had truly accomplished a great deal. I have to admit I'm still a little intimidated by her size, she is a 1500 Goldwing and I am only 5"2" and about 105. I know some adjustments have to be made but I have a lot fellow Goldwingers and Trikers that are helping me out. One thing I have learned from this is do not be afraid to ask for help. Thanks again VTwin Mama. P.S. My daughter is now learning to ride a dirt bike (think she's got a little of her momma in her?). – Sue Dear
Sue, Tuesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Tuesday, August 10 For James who has sputter and is wondering if the carbs are out of whack: I had a similar problem (Fuel Starvation) - and it stopped doing it when I replaced my air cleaners and my spark plugs. The old filters were shot. I don't think they'd been changed in a long time by the previous owner (I just got my bike). The plugs looked ok - but one was gapped really wide. And since they were out and it's a cheap fix - new ones went in. I'm assuming it was the spark plugs that fixed that problem. This is on an '86 Intruder 700. A check on the spark plug gap might be a quick fix - or the fuel filters - check the pet-cock. Make sure its not clogged. – Braids (note from Mama: thanks for the checklist as I agree that sometimes plugs seem ok, but if you re-check the gap, it's out of tolerance.) Tuesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, I am now 52 and was 51 when I started this adventure (I am 5'2 and 130lbs) . My bike had 700 miles on her when I bought her and now she has 2500. I didn't even get my license until June the 4th. I am non-stop. I am single and a mom of a 15 year old daughter. Her dad died a few years ago so it is just us, and I wanted to be as safe as possible out there. I have ridden with other bikes and believe me, you can certainly tell those that have not taken the course. I like riding with safe people but I also love riding alone. Getting and learning how to ride this Sportster is the best thing that I have ever done for myself. Don't ever think you are too old, too short, etc. to fulfill your dream. It feels so good out there. Thank-you for this awesome website and all the support during my journey. I have since joined my local chapter of Ladies of Harley and have met so many great people. All I can say is take to course, be safe and above all, follow your dreams! Thank you Mama! – Cissi Dear
Cissi, Tuesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Vel in CA, Tuesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Linda, Otherwise, you could go to an independent shop or dealer to have the seat shaved down some or check their catalogs for a seat that will lower you (have a clear picture in your mind of what your current seat looks like or actually take a picture so you can compare!). You might also check into shorter shocks that will help some. You can always add a little bit of heel to your riding boots to make up any difference, but not too much or it will interfere with your shifting and braking abilities. Hope this gives you some more "food for thought!" – Mama Tuesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Thank you for having this site. I think it is great. I know I will be back probably to ask more questions, but who knows, maybe I will be able to answer one. Thanks. – Bonnie Dear
Bonnie, Tuesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Do you have a service/maintenance manual for the beastie? Lots of troubleshooting ideas are contained within. Call your local dealer to see if they have one/can get one or check my Reading Sources page for Internet sites that offer them ($20 for aftermarket, $60 for factory version). You might have to bite the bullet though and have the dealer put the bike on it's performance tester to see if you have a higher level leak somewhere as bike age/mileage/sitting around may have rotted out something else around the cylinder head or seriously affected the valve timing. Sorry, but that's all I can think of right now. – Mama Wednesday, August 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, So.... I took the class, dumped class bike in a curve, and just about wore out the starter trying to find that "sweet spot." Two months later, I bought a Honda 750 Shadow. My odometer just rolled past 3000 miles this past weekend. I cannot put into words how proud I am of myself. Don't give up, ladies.... if you want it, you can do it. Starting, stopping, shifting gears, paying attention to what is around you all comes natural before you know it. Oh, I have had my embarrassing moments. We were stopped thinking we were going to park, then decided that we would. In all the deciding, I forgot to put my kick stand down. Needless to say, I was pretty red in the face. I love this site. I am on it every day during my lunch and breaks - thank you, Mama! It is the BEST. Ride on. – Pat Jones in Houston, TX Dear
Pat, Wednesday, August 11 More for James who has sputter and is wondering if the carbs are out of whack: I don't work on bikes that new, but I'd check the timing and make sure it was set right. And the seals around the pipes, my pipes need to be tighten every 1000 miles or so. – Marion (note from Mama: I agree that exhaust pipe bolt looseness is one thing overlooked very easily, but causes oh so many problems!) Wednesday, August 11 Hello
all . . . Dear
Terri, I'm embarrassed to admit that I had to do a search on the Internet as we've not had any input that I can remember on the Katana . . . but found this page with some ratings that might interest you. There appears to be a Katana discussion board somewhere buried on the site. Given that it's a more "sporty" bike, you might find that the Speedy Bike Girls site will be able to offer a lot more opinions and assistance in reviewing this. The Buell Blast is not highly recommended by readers so far at this site. Too beginner, too maintenance icky, just too, too! As to working out for better handling of a bike . . . very VTwin Mama sister smart! Especially stomach stuff as it really makes a difference to your back, which can really take the brunt of a longer ride. – Mama Wednesday, August 11 For Frustrated (but I can't link because I've had numerous letters with this "signature": I think I have the option for you in an automatic bike.
I have had an ankle fusion on my left ankle and can't
shift with out a heel toe shifter. These bikes are made in the Wednesday, August 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jody, Wednesday, August 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, I wear a women's size 18/20. Bike jackets seem to run smaller compared to regular jackets. It is hard to find jackets, etc. for plus size at an affordable price yet have some decent quality to them. Men's jackets will fit around the rump then they are huge across the shoulders and the sleeves are endless. I like the www.womanbiker.com jackets but can't afford them. What can you tell me about the jeans with Kevlar in them as opposed to leather chaps/pants? When I first started riding at age 10 my Dad made us wear jean jackets, boots, gloves and jeans. I have always just worn a jean jacket but with what I've been reading and the traffic has picked up in my area I'm looking for more protection. Also, what do you recommend to put on your helmet shield outside to help with rain and inside to help with anti-fog? With the humidity lately, I've been having some real problems riding at night. Lastly, is there some type of log book for your motorcycle on repairs, oil changes, etc. that you can buy or a program for on your computer? Thanks for your help. Appreciate your input. – Pam from Central PA Dear
Pam, Leather is often bought for looks, but the fact is that a GOOD leather jacket is worth it's weight in gold. It boils down to the thickness of the cowhide used. If you ever see a "die-hard" Harley rider, you'll note that their leather jacket looks like it weighs a ton. That's because it's made to truly protect and can take a road skid with the best of them. The sportier textile jackets are nice, but without the Kevlar, they offer no more protection than a thin "look at me" leather jacket. It's the Kevlar that saves your own skin. True, the sportier versions with Kevlar are more lightweight than good thick cowhide, so a liner can be added and this is nice. Thick cowhide will keep off winter blasts, but summer riding is different. That's when most switch to a good thick cowhide vest. Less protection, but the chest and back are still covered (one more layer the road has to chew before getting to your skin!). Price. You always get what you pay for, so if you need to wait a little bit to save up to get the jacket that is pricier but you perceive to meet your requirements, it's well worth it! I just saw someone today scramble from underneath a fallen bike (he looked ok as I was zooming by), but it really hit home that you just can't replace quality . . . ever . . . So, the pants follow the same thinking pattern. Thick cowhide or Kevlar offer protection. As to helmet shield fogging, there are a ton of products on the market (think snorkel/diving masks) and you need only go to a search engine to find these products! Riding at night is best done with clear goggles in my opinion, rather than a face shield, even a clear one, although I'm not opposed to it. Less "look around" restrictions, but good protection. As to motorcycle maintenance software, I really couldn't find anything useful and would advocate getting the maintenance/service manual for your year/make/model bike and starting an Excel spreadsheet. You sound adamant about precise upkeep, so make sure to get the factory manual versus the aftermarket version (it's about $60 at www.repairmanuals.com rather than the $20 aftermarket version, which is good . . . ) But that's just me! Readers, any thoughts here?! – Mama Thursday, August 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Aileen, Thursday, August 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
JRB, Thursday, August 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, Also, do you know the website for Americade that is held in June? Someone told me once and I couldn't write it down and now I can't think of it. – Donna Dear
Donna, My suggestion is that you continue to gain riding confidence and handling skills off the highway as much as possible, and when trying highway riding again, pick times of the day when truck traffic is most likely to be the lightest (perhaps early Sunday mornings). When a truck approaches, move your bike into the farthest part of your lane away from the truck. Many experienced riders, even in group formation, will move to single file in the farthest part of the lane away from the truck! You are NOT ALONE! The Americade site is: http://tourexpo.com/04/index2.html. – Mama Thursday, August 12 For Pat in Houston who shared her story about starting to ride "later in life": Hi Pat! My story is so similar to yours that I wanted to reply. Also rode on the back of Hub's VTX1800 for a surprisingly short time before I had a powerful hankerin' to ride my own. Took the MSF in May (also at age 50). I |