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Tuesday, August 1 Dear VTwin Mama, I've been doing these seat mods for several years now. I was watching Corbin's RideOn one Tuesday night and they had a Chiropractor on talking about saddle soreness and pointed out that you need a flat surface to spread the pressure distribution out. When I saw this program I had a Mustang seat on my Honda VTX 1300 and hated it. Sure I loved the comfort but hated it because it raised me about 2"s in the saddle and moved me forward and I felt like was sitting on the gas tank. Well being an furniture upholsterer for the past 20 years (this year is my 20th anniversary) I knew I could re-shape the foam. Well, to make a long story short, I did my seat and I had my wife sit on it and then I had to do her seat (she rides her own). I try to keep the mod as inexpensive for the customer as I can, offering 3 different mods: **Basic: this flattens out the riders seat
and gives a little lower back support this mod is only $30 plus return
shipping The best thing about the mods are they are inexpensive compared to a new $250+ seat that still isn't made for the customer but just a basic shape. Too keep the mod cost down, the stock seat covers are re-used and the seat looks pretty much like a stock seat once the mod has been done. I believe the seat mods I do would help them enjoy their ride and give allot of women the ability to flat foot the road when stopped which would be a great safety asset to them. Thanks for your time and thanks for providing women a place to learn about the joys of motorcycling. I will show my wife your website and see what she thinks about it also. Sincerely, – Allen Austin, Mean City Cycles in Maiden, NC Dear Allen, Tuesday, August 1 For Legal Beagle who questioned courses that operate in the hottest temp conditions: I just want to put my two cents in to what Legal Beagle had to say about MSF. First of all everyone in the course has a choice of how far they want to push themselves, regardless of the conditions of the course. I went through the MSF course back in October. It was very cold and it rained all day. I passed the outdoor test on a bike for only the second time in my life (the first time was the previous day on the range) in the rain, with no rain gear on. I was pretty miserable. But the first time I got caught in the rain on the road in traffic on my bike I didn't panic. I had the skills to deal with it. Reality is if you are going to ride a bike you are going to be exposed to the elements and still have to safely operate your machine. Also, my instructors did yell at me a little. But those voices I still hear in my head (LOOK where you are going!) and they continue to boost my confidence. One other thing to consider is that those instructors carry with them the responsibility of ensuring that the people who go through their classes can safely operate a motorcycle in just about any condition. I think that it is a tremendous responsibility they carry. I don't think they get much money out of it, either. While I am sure that there are some courses out there that may not have ideal conditions, neither is riding a motorcycle. I am thankful that there was no leniency in my instruction. – Shakti AeroRider (note from Mama: each person's capabilities and determination play themselves out differently when Mother Nature's conditions add to the experience . . . let's be smart out there, whether doing course work or on the road. From Shakespeare's play Hamlet: This above all: to thine ownself be true.) Tuesday, August 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Becky, Tuesday, August 1 For Susan who responded to Stefanie about risk assessment: Sounds like you had a great time. Every time I get on my bike I do a Lord Michael prayer and I believe it works for me. I was riding home in Ohio after visiting the Vintage Motorcycle races with my hubby. He was riding in front, so I watch for him and myself, when all the sudden a car came out of nowhere . . . a girl was on her cell phone weaving back and forth. She came into my lane moving me clear over to the berm, she realized where she was so she overcompensated turning the wheel hard almost taking my hubby out. I laid on the horn and my hubby noticed what was going on so he pulled off. Then the girl and I pulled off . . . she started cussing us out saying we were in her lane. My hubby shut her up real quick stating he had everything on tape on my helmet camera . . . she turned many shades of red, got in her car and took off. I love my bike, a Ninja 650, but I am always extra careful. I feel like I have an exorcist head spinning around watching everything from all corners. Next month I am taking a women's only IBR [Iron Butt Rally] 1000 [miles] in 24 [hours] going from Youngstown, Ohio thru WV, PA MA and back to Ohio. I am nervous but excited. Happy riding. – Ninja Babe (note from Mama: constant scanning of what's happening around us is a must . . . we have a better chance being proactive rather than reactive (when possible). For those interested in saying a biker's prayer before riding, KarrieAnne shared some this May that she found.) Wednesday, August 2 For Trish with a Voyager conversion and is learning to handle curves at higher speeds: First, Trish, congratulations on the new ride! May you enjoy many, many miles and hours of joy on it. Until recently, I rode a 883 Sporty on a Voyager kit. Cornering is -- shall we say, different! Nothing you can't do, however. Keep that in mind. We don't lean the trike kit, we "push" it around the corners. The "push/pull" advice from the Voyager rep is good advice, and I would also recommend you really pay attention to setting up for the curves. First, tell all your riding buddies that trikes don't lane share. We need the whole thing, and we are allowed to be greedy about how much of the road we need. Period. Next, when you are coming into the curve, drift to the outside of the corner so you will straighten out the corner as much as possible, making a tight corner into a looser curve. Scrub your speed before you start the corner, then after you've gone around the apex of the corner, roll on the throttle to pull the trike through the rest of the corner. Tell your riding buddies to back off and give you the room you need to take the corners slower at first, then power out at the end of the curve. You may well not keep up with your riding buddies on real twisty roads, but if you really give that Sportster the gas as you are pulling out of the corner, you will probably catch up with the group you're riding with before the next corner (grin!). Well, that's how I did it anyway. The Voyager kit will lift a wheel if you take a corner fast and tight. I came to accept that lift, though I did everything I could minimize it. I never really figured out how much lift was safe. Some people on the trike Internet discussion boards I read said it was just like "flying" a side car, but reason dictates that at some point "flying" that wheel goes from OK to dangerous. I admit that I never figured this part out. I sold the Voyager to a sweet 50-something grandma about a month ago and am relearning 2-wheeled riding on a new Kawasaki Vulcan 800. Its pretty scary sometimes but I will master it. Good luck and ride safe! Thank you for the forum on which we can share with other women, Petra. This is a wonderful site. – Gila Hayes (note from Mama: congrats on your new pathway and thanks for sharing tips on handling curves with motorcycles converted with a Voyager kit.) We put a Voyager trike kit on my son's (who just turned 16) 1200 Sportster as I had him on a 250 Suzuki and he had trouble holding it up, and he dumped the bike several times (thank God it was in the GRASS!). With his father riding a Big Dog Chopper and me on my Sportster we wanted him to ride, so the trike was the only other option. We haven't been able to get him on it . . . he says he is "embarrassed" and doesn't want to ride with training wheels. He also is ''afraid'' to dump the bike like he did the motorcycle (at one time he flipped over the handlebars on the 2wlr and broke the mirror off with his chest). So he is VERY nervous beside the point. We have let all our biker friends ride it and they all have loved it. My 62 year old dad thought it was COOL. He told my son "Look Josh, NO FEET!" However, my concern is this, riding only a 2 wheeler when I rode it, it seemed to handle "funny." I didn't notice corners being difficult as I have on my 2 wheeler, but I did notice that when you hit a bump the front end seemed "squirrelly." We checked everything out and everything is tight, I was just wondering if you had this trouble or if you noticed it. When you hit a bump it seems the steering tends to, I don't know, if wobble is the right word, but the handlebars move quickly toward your body on the left and away on the right (or visa versa depending on which tire of the kit the bump hits). It's a quick jerk of the steering and my husband said that if you allow the steering to come back far enough to lock during that bump that you could possible roll it over. Does anyone know anything about this? We didn't tell my son that but it makes me nervous now, considering putting him on the thing. Any suggestions? Also...does anyone have any suggestions on how to make my son feel like he's COOL riding? His plate is RJS so we told him it stood for Radical Josh Sportster, but how do I get the "training wheel" embarrassment out of him? Thanks to all that answer. – Concerned Mama (note from Mama: thanks for sharing some Voyager thoughts! Depending on the rake angle of the front end, trike conversions of any type can set up the bump reaction you note. Read this previous letter and a response for some thoughts on checking out things. As to the training wheel viewpoint . . . we don't consider an ATV a trainer, do we?! Still, an ATV can be borrowed or rented for a new rider to work through bike control basics with the balance issue removed. Maybe some fun on an ATV will help remove the perceived stigma of the Sporty/Voyager set-up.) An added note about Voyager conversions from VTwin Mama: I received an email from Sara in Leasburg, MO, noting she had read that there is concern about Voyager conversions. It centers around the fact that with a Voyager conversion, one doesn't remove the rear wheel, and thus, you actually are riding on four wheels. This doesn't fall under the guidelines of how states view a motorcycle, which is three wheels. Check with your state and Voyager to understand any potential hassles. Because the kit is removable, it is most likely seen as an accessory rather than a permanent alteration to the motorcycle. Thursday, August 3 I've just posted my review of the Fix My Hog DVDs. Currently these talking/visual service procedure DVDs are available for Sportys, Softails and Touring Harley-Davidson motorcycles, but look for a Bolt-On Performance DVD at the end of the year. Future plans also include three different metric motorcycle models! Highly recommended! Thursday, August 3 Dear VTwin Mama,
While the bike is assembled in
China, its design is definitely Made in America, all components drafted up by
Johnny to his exacting specifications. Johnny
wanted to design a bike to American standards but have it manufactured and
assembled overseas to bring the price down to the bone and make it
accessible to about anybody. Says Johnny, “We were looking to offer a
bike that first time riders can enjoy, for people on a budget, for ladies
who want to get off the passenger seat and onto their own wheels, for
people who like to sit on a bike with their feet flat on the ground, and
for people looking for a full custom bike without the big price tag.” This June was the first shipment of full production bikes arriving at the Johnny Pag Motorcycles warehouse in Riverside, CA. Getting
attention is also one of the Spyder’s attributes. It’s got its own
personality, a peppy ride for a 250cc machine, quality design and
components plus sheer fun factor, and a price money can’t beat. It’s a
bike Johnny Pag can be rightly proud of. First
impressions. While some of the preliminary photos were good, seeing the
bike in person was, well, impressive. You get an immediate sense of a
full-sized, full-framed bike (360 lb., 73-inch wheelbase, 1000 lb. rated
load) with quality finish and no scrimping. A push on
the electric start resulted in immediate engine firing. No hesitation
whatsoever. Tapping the forward controls sent us rolling. I have to say
the first word in my head was “zippy.” Not zippyitty doodah, but
zippy! as in, hey, this 250 gets up and goes faster than I expected. The
use of dual carburetors greatly adds to the bike’s 250cc twin
cylinder’s performance with no lag or stutter, just twist the throttle
grip and go. Call that a crisp throttle response. The very smooth shifting
of the five-speed transmission added to the zippyness. In city driving,
the 250 Spyder will keep you up with the Joneses or as Johnny says, “The
bike will take you comfortably up to speeding ticket speeds.” Part of the
attraction of a smaller displacement powerplant is the matter of fuel
consumption (and also insurance rates). The 250 Spyder gets about 65 mpg
and with its 4.2 gallon tank, you can count on a good 250 miles before
you’re on fumes. And don’t try to stuff the gas pump nozzle into the
left fill cap opening. There is a filler cap and it does screw off, but
the hole is plugged and the second cap is just there to add symmetry and
balanced good looks by way of a pair of gas gaps instead of one. And those
turn signals by the way come off very easily without any unsightly
hardware left exposed if you they don’t fit in with your vision of
custom. The exhaust note is “mild” but pleasant, but we’re told
“optional” pipes will be available for those who would like to make a
louder statement. (There’s even a “performance” brake upgrade for
those who like to lock up their rear brake.) Coming off
a short-wheel based sport-oriented bike, I did need to “acclimate” to
the longer custom front end. Because of the rake, there is some getting
used to the handling at very slow speeds, but it all smoothes out once you
get up to speed. There’s compensation in the bike’s lowness, there is
no “fall over” feel you might get from a taller bike, and thus would
be a plus for a new rider or shorter rider. Even maneuvering through 180
degree turns, once adjusted to the front end presented no problems.
Because overall, the bike has a secure sense of balance. As I was
riding along I realized I wasn’t conscious of the suspension. In a good
way. Now I tip the gym scales at a few notches past 200 but the bike’s
compliance handled my weight without complaint. There was no bottoming out
although you have an adjustable seat height of a pavement hugging 20-23
inches, peachy for shorter riders and perfect for planting your feet on
terra firma when stopping. The handlebar controls were in the ergo zone,
but the cables will stretch on a brand new bike, so keep a watch on the
cable adjusters to keep everything adjusted correctly. The seat again gave
no feed back, but since I didn’t spend all day in the saddle, long term
effects are yet to be noted, but again this is an around town bike and not
intended for cross-country travel, but a great Sunday cruiser, grocery
getter and bar hopper. The
instrumentation, set up on a Harley-type gas tank chromed panel, has a
bright LED display. Moreover, the ignition switch is modeled after the
classic H-D set-up. Turning the big know allows you run with or without
your lights on. An interesting “euro spec” addition is the little
yellow button Dear Paul, Friday, August 4 Hi VTM, My question is: when I stop at a traffic light/stop
sign, why am I having so much trouble getting the bike into 1st gear? I've
tried down-shifting approaching the stop, thinking I am in 1st, but when
the time comes to take off, apparently I am not. The bike just whines. The
shift will not lower any more but yet the bike is not moving. Any
suggestions on what I am doing wrong? I don't believe anything to be wrong
with the bike since my husband does not have these same issues. Dear Amy, Or, when you go to shift, you are using too light of a tap to fully move the gearing (thus you've landed in neutral no-man's land, which is different than true neutral . . . the whine is probably the bike being between the true gearing. Again, hubby might not be having problems because he is likely to be stabbing at the shift motion vs. a tap. Just a thought. Now, there are some motorcycles which are known to have tricky shifts into first when the bike is at a dead stop. Some riders have noted that they need to rock the bike to get the thing to bump down to first. So, as you approach the stop, and have shifted to 1st, I'd let out the clutch, if just a bit, to "know" that the bike is in 1st before coming to the full stop. Review these ideas and see if some combination isn't your
answer! –
Mama Friday, August 4 Howdy Mama, Here's my question: Engine guards- round and square. On my first ride I came to a stop sign and --whoops-- tipped my bike Barbie (Yeah, Barbie the Harley). I put a shiner on the end of the clutch handle and side mirror (I dropped her gently) so I've decided that engine guards, for me, would be a great thing. I have no interest in adding footpegs or anything, as I like the somewhat aggressive sit I have on my Sporty. They offer square ones for most bikes, but for my Roadster I can only get the round ones. Are there any advantages/disadvantages to round vs. square or will they work the same? Also, do guards help you when you pick up your bike, because I really had to give it the ol' college to try pickin' Barbie up off the ground. (however, I was able to do it without Ken's help!) :o) Also, just a thought to women buying bikes -- a lot of people told me to get a used crappy bike, but you know what? When you get something you love, you cherish it and take care of it, meaning you're going to be EXTRA careful -- and careful is what every biker needs to be! For me, getting a new bike made perfect sense! It has the latest safety features, there were no questions as to the past mechanical upkeep of it, the clutch is as smooth as butter, it comes with a good warranty, and it reminds me to PAY ATTENTION. In addition, regarding power-- ladies, you DON'T have to use that throttle if you don't want to. I got to tell you, it sure as heck makes life easier having that 883R engine under me. When I take off of the curb after parking, or when I'm pulling out of the driveway where there is a little dip, I just give it more gas and it rolls off smoothly. In other words, don't be afraid of that larger cc engine. I'm no expert-- in fact I've only been riding a month-- but I'm so happy I got a bigger engine as opposed to a 250cc that I had to learn on, because I found that to be somewhat challenging. Thanks a bunch Mama!! If there are any ladies in Santa
Monica or Los Angeles who
want to mentor a 25 y.o. newbie,
please contact me! I'd love to have some patient riding partners!! God
bless, Dear Holly, Should a more aggressive situation unfold in front of you, and the bike needs to, or is going to go down, the motorcycle will slide at more of an angle off the ground, giving you just that extra split second to get your leg out of there. And yes, with an engine guard, the bike will rest at more of an angle. This angle assists a rider in positioning themselves in such a way that the bike can be lifted back up with greater ease. Take a look at my Picking Up The Bike page, which has several links to sites that offer words and pictures for the correct handling of this. Then, with the tank relatively empty of gas and the petcock turned off, grab an old piece of carpet, and with a friend, lay the bike down and practice! I can appreciate your viewpoint on the first motorcycle purchase. I advocate getting a used bike if a person's gut tells them they would be best off on a smaller cc bike for a practice period before moving up in size. Why burn $$ at that point! For those who are unsure of what their dream bike really will be, this also gives them the chance to polish skills and be more in tune with riding realities that then translate to the dream set-up. I'm jazzed that you recognized your pathway more easily and are enjoying your choice right off the bat! Yahoo! Now, as to hooking up with other women riders . . . hop onto
my Women's Sites page and take
a look for local chapters of women-specific riding organizations in your area
and make contact! You may also wish to contact VTwin Mama site sisters in your
area . . . they are listed on my Let's
Ride page! At the very least you will move forward in meeting women riders
and start forming your personal network . . . and one may be in position to
offer you the mentoring you seek! –
Mama Friday, August 4 More for Bill who is looking into a CFMoto auto tranny motorcycle: If Bill is worried about the V5 he
shouldn’t be. It’s a full size bike with floor boards. He should be
able to do an easy 60 – 65 mph on it and possibly more. Friday, August 4 Dear VTwin Mama, I’ve got news on two more cycles: One is a maxi-scooter
by Kymco
called the Xciting 500, which I don’t
own, but I do own their People 250 scooter and love it. Kymcos
are made in Personally, I think the motorcycle
industry is moving toward automatic transmissions, the same way cars did.
I think there’ll be a lot of push-back from “purists” who’ll say
that automatic motorcycles aren’t real motorcycles, but ultimately, the
market will decide the issue. As soon as manufacturers catch on and start
turning out well-made, reliable automatics that are priced for regular
people, these things will fly out of showrooms. And I’ll be on one of
‘em, with my husband on the back seat. Dear Melissa, Friday, August 4 Hey Mama,
And lastly . . . 10.
Being on a bike is better than hormones when it comes to getting hot
flashes! Dear MommyDBA, Saturday, August 5 For Amy who is having problems with 1st gear coming to a stop: I have found it effective when I can't shift into first to let the clutch out a little and pull it back in. Usually, the bike goes right in. I ride a LS 650 Suzuki Savage and have for a little over a year. I love it. – Bikingb (note from Mama: thanks for another idea!) Saturday, August 5 Dear VTwin Mama, Anyway . . . I have a problem with my hands. My left hand is pretty sore, but my right hand had some paresthesia!! I have very little strength in my index, middle, and ring finger. It's slowly improving, but I'm worried that it will come back every time I ride (we're getting motorcycles next week - something small and used for me). Has anyone else had this problem? Thanks, – Cheryl Dear Cheryl, Nope, you're not alone on issues with hand strength, mobility, and chronic problems. For your right hand, you can consider adding a Throttle Rocker which will fit any bike you choose. This takes the tension off of your fingers because you've got assistance using your stronger lower thumb/palm area. Make sure you go to a big empty parking lot for practice to acclimate yourself to the added device (a good suggestion any way for a new rider . . . treat that "new" bike with respect by putting yourself through all your course work, but on your bike!). Your left hand is a little trickier, because it depends on the bike you choose. While you're shopping, you'll want to activate the clutch lever to see what pull strength you'll need and explore if there are adjustments/modifications that can be made. Some levers offer different settings, some can be adjusted for a engage/disengage point closer to the beginning of the clutch lever travel, and for other bikes, a different clutch lever or action ease can be added (like EZ Clutch, EZ Pull or Power Clutch, etc.). When you find a bike you would consider buying, a quick call to the local dealer should help you discover the exact modification options. Happy shopping! –
Mama Saturday, August 5 Dear VTwin Mama, My nephew started talking about how he wanted to learn to ride and I thought why not, if I'm going to do it, do it now so I have awhile to enjoy it and I started looking around and found some sites and how much everyone loved it, their experiences from start to the one's who have been riding for years . . . so we signed up for a MSF course. I was so excited, started looking for a bike and got a 1995 Honda Shadow 600cc about 2 weeks before we started classes. So, we get to class and I did fine with the classroom, next day we are going to be on the bikes and I am nervous, we get to class the next day and get on the bikes and I am very nervous, I can't get it into neutral or once I do, have a hard time getting it out then back to neutral. By this time I'm holding up the class and everyone is starring at me and I am disgusted with myself because everyone else has no problem with it and I can't get the hang of it, by the 4th time of not getting it into neutral the instructor starts yelling at me and and I'm on the bike, can't think straight and he's just yelling at me, which for personal reasons does not work for me at all, you yell, I cry so I get off the bike, head for the shed to put my helmet up, sobbing because I had failed and this was something I wanted but didn't seem to be able to do. I spend the next 2 weeks disgusted with myself for bursting into tears (I thought this was something I was over) and for quitting, so my nephew, who did very well and passed and got his license, took the bike to an empty parking lot and I get on and practice, I am still afraid but doing alright. We decide to take it to a local park one day and I was making a turn into the parking lot where we were and the turn was too wide and there is a small post so I go right to avoid the post but didn't see the wires attached to the post so I hit the wires and go down. By the time I get up I know I have hurt my shoulder so we went to the E.R. and I have fractured my clavicle/shoulder where they meet, next day bike is towed to shop and insurance guy calls and tells me it's totaled. So during the time my arm is in a sling I think about whether I should try again or give it up but I keep thinking I hate to quit and just give up so I thought I'll start on a 250cc, it shouldn't be hard to handle. I find one and get it, so by this time it's been about a month and a half since I hurt myself and I am nervous about getting on the bike, honestly I've been afraid every time I was on one, but thought I'll learn and get over the fear. Thursday we took the bike back to the park and I get on and I am scared so I go and ride in the parking lot a little and I get back to where my nephew is standing to say something to him, I start to take off and it goes . . . faster than I intended, I'm scared sh*tless and heading for those damn wires again, I manage to get it turned and avoid the wires but I'm so scared I can't think and can't stop. By this time my nephew is running after me and yelling "clutch" to get me to stop which I manage to do. I shut the bike down and get off and I'm shaking like a leaf and I know I can't get back on that bike again, so nephew takes off on the bike and I go home crying again, lol, because I don't know if I can get on it again. I want too but I am so scared and I feel like the biggest coward and failure. I can't understand why I can't get this, everyone else seems to in time, some take to it right away. I know my fear is part of it and I want to get past that but I can't seem to so I guess I'm asking for your input. I love your site and I go everyday to see what you and you're other readers have to say, I truly thought this is something I wanted to do and in a way I still do. I hate being a quitter but know I need to be realistic so I am asking for your input as to whether I should keep trying or give it up as something that just wasn't meant to be. Thank you for taking the time to read my book, lol, and any help you can give me. – Anonymous Dear Anon, The bottom line is that you've tried three times (course, Shadow, 250), once with an instructor who reduced you to tears and twice without qualified supervision. I realize you were trying your best and I honestly believe that as we get older, we sometimes feel that if we give it our best efforts, that this automatically will spell success. HA! Not so. And if everyone out there did in fact master the basics right away, there would be very little reason to have this site! YOU ARE SOOOOO NOT ALONE! Now you have a choice. Either continue to be disgusted with yourself, see yourself as a failure, and cry buckets over it, or straighten up your spine and get on with it! But what is the best method for you to proceed? My take on the situation, given your heartfelt letter, is that you have the 250cc motorcycle, so seek a private instructor. This will remove the classroom "everyone is starring" thing, but get you experienced assistance. Call the course and ask if anyone gives lessons. Call the local dealers and ask if they know of anyone (some HD dealers run the Riders Edge course, so may have someone!). Double check course availability in your area, as some are independent and offer this service. If this doesn't get you one, check in with every local chapter of women's riding organizations and ask if they know of someone or email VTwin Mama sisters in your area from my Let's Ride page to see if they have a source. Don't stop until you find one. DON'T STOP! I want to see calluses on your typing/dialing fingers! In all of this searching, you may come across another course and/or instructor that feels right or have a course/instructor highly recommended to you. Do not toss out the idea of heading back to a class, as they are not all created equal. One bad experience does not mean another shot at it is out of the question. I think, despite the awful three-punch combination you have started out with, that it's awfully early in your learning curve to succumb to "wasn't meant to be." Is three attempts all you're willing to give towards the pursuit of a dream? I SHOULD THINK NOT! You've taken the first step by pouring out
your feelings and admitting you need help. Ok, now off you go to explore
your options! –
Mama Sunday, August 6 1991 Honda Nighthawk CB250 in East/Central IL I'm looking for a new owner for my 1991 Honda Nighthawk CB250, somebody who will enjoy it as much as I have! I bought a bigger bike this summer and the garage is a bit too crowded to keep both. The Nighthawk only has 3,250 miles, and I'm asking $1,450/obo. It's an excellent entry-level bike -- in fact, they use these 250 Nighthawks in many motorcycle safety courses. And experienced riders like to take it for a spin, too, because it's so light and nimble (only 287 lbs. dry weight). As Honda says, "More than a great starter bike, the Nighthawk is the perfect mix of performance, value and legendary Honda reliability. Lightweight, user-friendly and confidence-inspiring, this 234cc parallel twin delivers everything you could ever ask for in an entry-level machine. And that makes it simply a great motorcycle, period." I'm located in east-central Illinois. For more information and/or more photos, please e-mail me at pagemgr@hotmail.com. Thanks! – Janice Sunday, August 6 2006 HD Softail Deluxe near Daytona Beach, FL Sometimes you have to admit defeat and I am a much better passenger than a driver. Purchased the 2006 Harley Deluxe before getting my license. Never been on it but hubby put on 50 miles. Vivid black, chrome beauty. Air cooled, twin cam with ESPFI. 24.5" seat height. 2 year warranty. Paid $18,000; selling for $16,700. I live near Daytona Beach, FL. Hubby says it takes corners better than his Road King. It has a retro look. I will be happy to send you pictures and additional details if you are interested. Email: joyo348@aol.com or call cell 386-547-4962. – Joyce Sunday, August 6 For Anon whose entry in the dream of riding has been rocky at best: First off, I hope that shoulder is healing quickly. On a scale of 1 through 10, with the 10 being the worst, your experience thus far is on the low end. Three tries....oh come now! Three years ago I decided to learn to ride. After doing much research I decided on a course that offered a package of 4 one hour lessons. Most people are prepared to take the state's road test after the 4 lessons. It took more that 4 lessons for me to learn how to let the clutch out. After the 4th lesson, the male instructor told me that riding a bike isn't for everyone and that some people are better passengers. I don't think so!!! The owner of the school paired me with 2 female instructors. Within 30 minutes, I was stopping and starting. I then bought a 250cc Rebel and as the saying goes: The rest is history. Each time that I get on the bike I go into "Fearless Woman" mode. With determination I am now riding a 1300cc 700LB motorcycle. I have dropped my 250 Rebel, 600 Shadow and 1300 Honda, more times than I care to remember. However, each time I dent a fender or bruise a body part, it has been a learning experience. Believe me, I have not taken to this riding "like a duck to water." Last year, my mentor spent 3 sessions with me. We worked on the basics and improvements on skills that I had acquired. Two weeks ago, she and I rode downhill sweeping curves. My heart was leaping out of my chest each time I took a downhill blind curve. We had scheduled to go back into the parking lot to do more clutch work and emergency braking but the heat wave caused us to delay our plans. I agree with V Twin Mama, why is it that when one reaches a certain age we think that we are supposed to come out of the box with all the answers? Take the advice given in this site. Request that the school provide you with a different certified instructor and join a woman's riding group. Most of all, do not, I repeat do not, give up. Take care, – Audrey LI (note from Mama: kudos on emphasizing that the very beginning basics can take many hours and attempts to get under control and that sticking with it is the ticket to success! It's also best not to get stuck comparing one's learning curve with anyone else's . . . this is not a race to keep up with the Joneses but a personal journey whose goal is within reach if one has the courage to continue to reach for it.) My heart went out to Anon. "Been there and done that" . . . got the scars (mentally) to prove it. I am a 57 year old Grandma who was content to be a passenger. Last year I got it into my head to learn to ride. I enrolled in a local MSF course thru the county where I live. After the 4th lesson they took me out because I was unsafe since the bike (150cc) CBR was too tall for my short legs. The female instructor (1/2 of a married team) gave me the encouragement to go on with the comment I can see you can ride, go get a bike you can fit on." I did just that and purchased an '05 Honda 250 Rebel. I re-upped for the class and did fine right thru the practice session for the test. When test time for me came I wobbled, I misunderstood the instructions, I did everything wrong you could think of. I felt like crying but came back 2 weeks later to retest. Same thing, good to go on the practice, failed the test cause I was nervous and wanted it sooo bad. Well I was told they couldn't test me again, I would have to go through the DMV office for testing. I got my temporary permit and went into practice mode. Well, to make a long story short, I tested, failed, went into winter shut down, renewed my temporary, tested again and again. ($5 each time to schedule the test) All told it took me 5 times this year to pass that state test, but I never gave up! My husband was great, patient and constructive, never once told me to give it up, just stood by and watched me do the maneuvers again, or took me out on back roads to get me riding practice. I passed (finally) about 2 weeks ago and was so thrilled I could barely stand it! I've now added 300 miles to my barely used Rebel and am presently looking to sell it and move up (carefully) to a more worthy "road" bike. My point is to encourage. She's gone thru the hell of having someone yell at her, the pain of breaking her bones, the depression and tears, the fear and doubt, but she still has the "want to." You are right, she needs to explore other options, and hopefully she will be able to find the reward at the end of the effort. Perseverance is just a nice way of being stubborn in my family. I sincerely hope she succeeds and I hope she is safe in her efforts. – Stubborn in Vancouver (note from Mama: your message clearly highlights that frustration does not have to get the best of a new rider . . . learning is just that . . . learning! Congrats on your own successful license completion . . . I'm grinning from ear to ear!) Sunday, August 6 Dear VTwin Mama, One of the issues in choosing a “starter” bike for me is my height. I’m 6’1” and weigh about 165 lbs. My legs have a 36 inch inseam. On the Buell Blast that we used in class, my knees were up to my armpits. Shifting was an issue. This tells me I need a bigger bike. However, the bigger the bike… the more unwieldy it is to make my turns. I lost a little bit of confidence when I dropped the Intruder on a turn. Popped the clutch on the turn, Panicked and forgot to straighten up my wheel before laid on the brake, down I went. And this on a busy road!!!! My brother’s Intruder has a front crash bar with front pegs. He’s as tall as I am and rides with his feet on the front pegs. He shifts with his heel and breaks with his heel. I grew very frustrated with my turns today and he had me try it his way. It worked. My center of gravity changed, I felt more confident in my turns and starting out more balanced on a turn. I felt like a struck gold with that little bitty learning. I’m looking to buy a beater bike. A 1983 Magna 750. The seat height is 32” as opposed to the Intruder 29.5". I’m hoping this helps. However my brother feels that it is way too much bike for me. I’m stumped. I’ve read everything on your site about the newbie short rider and the types of bikes they should buy. So why am I having such a difficult time with my Amazon height??? Your site is very inspirational and its keeps me from not giving up. All the stories of other women who have stepped up to the plate and are riding gives me hope. Thanks so much. – Z from Ohio Dear Z, If in the balance of things, despite limited time on the Intruder, how does that motorcycle feel to you overall? If you only had to go in a straight line, are you gaining confidence in handling the clutch/throttle/brake combo? If so, I'm hard pressed to see why the beater Magna wouldn't be a good choice! It's already banged up so you won't be worrying about oopsie damage. Also, you can add a strap-on gel pad to lift your butt a bit higher off the deck if you need just a bit more leg room! Too much bike?! Well, many women choose to go to a mid-range bike after completing their course (congrats on your "M" !) and are glad they did once they have completed a bunch of parking lot practice sessions! Your brother is entitled to his opinion, but it's yours that counts! I can see one of your issues is assistance in getting to the parking lot, so, if your brother doesn't have the time, maybe one of his riding friends does! Ask! Or, check my Let's Ride page for a riding sister in your area who might be willing to assist. You might also check with the local chapters of women's riding organizations . . . it's time to expand your own circle of support! Send an email, make a call, say hi, and see what's possible! – Mama Sunday, August 6 Hi VTwin Mama, Even though it's supposed to be good for short people, I'm wondering if it could be even lower -- right now it feels like it has a very high centre of gravity and it doesn't help I can only touch the ground on my tippy toes. Is there a lowering kit for the Yamaha YBR 125? I'm going to try to find someone to have the seat scooped but lowering the center of gravity would help me a whole lot. Regards, – Lisa Dear Lisa, For Z who is 6'1" and researching her first motorcycle: I'm a 6' tall rider and would like to recommend Harley Sportsters. I have an '04 1200 Custom and find it extremely comfortable, particularly since it has forward positioned footpegs. I have a friend (woman) who's 6' 2" and rides the same model. Also, don't be afraid of a more powerful engine. My bike has a lot of power, but just because it CAN go fast, doesn't mean it has to. And the extra quickness has been very nice in some traffic situations where I had to get out of the way. – Li in Florida (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Monday, August 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Nanci, Monday, August 7 Dear VTwin Mama, About three weeks ago, I bought a '06 Heritage Softail Classic. I am 5'3" and 125lbs. My feet are flat at stops and solid flat with some seat scouching forward. This bike will keep up with them, if I want to go that fast. I will ride 5 mph over at times, but shoot for the max speed, 2 over, or 5 under. I think the Vulcan had a smoother ride and stopped better, but the bigger bike is much more comfortable for a distance ride. We rode a 320 mile ride last week to Brenham, TX and back and I wasn't half as tired on the Softail as the Vulcan 800 Classic. I started riding on a Yamaha Virago 250 2-1/2 years ago and I am 55 years old now. Thanks for your website, it is enjoyed, – Deniese Dear Deniese, Tuesday, August 8 Dear VTwin Mama, I had done a lot of research to find the best oil for my '03 V-rod and no matter who I talked to, and the facts that I found, it all came down to one full synthetic oil: AMSOIL. I ran this oil in my bike and shifting was smoother, the fan didn't come on as much, and the bike ran even smoother. A friend of mine runs the 20w-50 in the engine, primary and transmission of her Harley. She found that the bike doesn't overheat anymore and the shifting clunk that Harley has is quieter. I'm sure there are women looking for the same protection for their bikes so that's why I'm here . . . to spread the word . . . and help educate riders on what I consider the best oil and filter to run in their ride. Amsoil also has great rust protection for those long winter months of storage. Best time to get me for any questions is after 3:00 pm EST on my cell, which can be found at www.lubehelp.com. Thanks for your time, – Travis Dear Travis, Tuesday, August 8 For Melissa who was wondering about reviews on the QLink Legacy 250: I noticed on your comparison table that you have the QLink scooter listed as "origin unknown" -- but if you look at the QLink and CF Moto web sites, you'll see that it's the same bike. From the design of the plastic side panels to the push-buttons for the radio in the handlebar post, these are identical bikes. Just thought your readers might want to know. – Dan (note from Mama: you are absolutely right! An email received from Johnny at QLink, in response to my query, confirmed that the Legacy 250 is CFMoto's V5. The company notes that they have their own decal design and quality control and are developing a windshield and rear trunk for add-on options.) Tuesday, August 8 Ride For The Relay: Starts in Chicago September 9 Dear VTwin Mama, He hopes to raise at least $6,600 for the charity (in honor of the Route 66 trek he has planned.) He has invited people to join him for $33 and become a rider sponsor, to ride as far as they like. I lost my Mom to Ovarian Cancer in September of 2005 and both my husband and I (and lots of other GWRRA members) plan to join him. We hope that by getting the word out we can help not only the survivors, but also loved ones like us that lost family members, friends, or someone they know to this horrible disease. Please join him on this worthy ride . . . what more could you ask for? Gorgeous scenery, worthy cause, and to ride, ride, ride with other wonderful bikers! Sincerely, – Sara Stevens in Leasburg, Missouri Tuesday, August 8 Dear VTwin Mama, I started learning to ride in May of this year and am a 48 year old divorced empty nester. I've had a fantasy of riding a motorcycle since childhood and it wasn't until I met my boyfriend last year that I finally got the experience as a passenger. Just a couple of days before he'd bought a Harley Dynawide. Four months later he bought me a Sportster and had to modify it for a shorter rider, I'm 5" 1'. I finally got to ride it around his yard and experienced my first fall. I forgot to put my feet out when I stopped. I absolutely love to ride the bike and get a thrill out of seeing his chest swell with pride after a particularly good ride together. As I stated, blind curves have been my greatest fear and he's told me repeatedly that I would get better control if I maintained my speed AND leaned the bike. Your explanation of the technique of leaning made things clear to me. I now see that instead of leaning with the bike I have been fighting against it. This is a great site. I found it quite by accident and out of desperation. – Sportster Novice Dear Sportster Novice, One thing not really noted in the earliest letters posted in the Riding Techniques: Curves and Turns is the countersteering technique. Besides body position is this technique, which is basically lightly pressing your hand on the handlebar on the side you wish to lean into the curve. This will set the bike into the center of gravity pivoting motion for the curve. You can practice this in any empty parking lot or road with no traffic . . . ride in a straight line, press your hand and note how quickly the motorcycle wants to go in that direction. That's exactly what you need for curves at higher speeds! Happy learning! – Mama Tuesday, August 8 Good Morning Petra, Since our last exchange, I took the time to relax about riding. Since January I've made major changes in my life, in addition to getting the bike, and the combination of everything got to be too much. I took the time to separate riding from everything else so I could take stock in what I wanted to do . . . sell or ride, and the idea of giving up so soon didn't feel good. I really thought hard about your question: what made me want to take up this sport in the first place? Took the bike out yesterday for the first time in just about a month. It felt good and scary at the same time. I mostly did straight riding, and when I had to take a turn, concentrated on using the front brakes only on the APPROACH, and just the rear brake on the actual turn. It didn't feel as comfortable as when I use both brakes, but anything new takes time to get used to. And now I know that using the front brake on a turn is counter-productive to getting through the turn. I need to take the bike to the shop. The right fork leaks oil, probably a seal was broken when I transported it from Pennsylvania to Ohio in March. The other problem is stalling. This was the same problem that caused me to change the spark plugs last month. It still stalled out after changing the plugs and I called Ridley. The tech said it sounded like I was out of gas. Ridley tanks hold just slightly over four gallons. I put a couple of gallons in the right tank, everything seemed fine, and then the bike sat for several weeks. Yesterday, it stalled again (I had been riding for a while, going various speeds, up and down hills, etc., so the bike wasn't "cold"), but I can't imagine I put enough miles on it to get "too-low on fuel" again, however I put the petcock on reserve and got the four miles to the gas station and home with no problems. Could I have been out of gas again?!! The ride to the closest Ridley dealership is about one hour and will be my longest and most challenging (a friend in a car will be in front of me). I am test riding it in the car today to be sure I feel comfortable with the different road/speed/turn situations I'll be doing. I am going to ask the service folks to check the fuel filter and carburetor, even though the bike has just 200 miles on it. Since I've had it, it has sat quite a bit. Is there anything else I should have them look into in regard to the stalling problem? I will probably call Ridley again to get their thoughts, but I truly value your opinion and wondered what you think it could be. I have been VERY fortunate the times it has stalled that I've been able to pull out of traffic without incident. I don't want to press my luck! I know I keep saying it, but the sentiment stays the same..... thank you so much! – Stefanie Dear Stepahie, Still, if the motorcycle exhibits the stalling problem even with a full tank, within a certain number of miles, it's then possible a particle is trapped in the petcock at the On position (the petcock usually has its own filter(s) or that the petcock itself is not shifting position correctly, thus blocking correct fuel flow in the On position. Or, there could be a blockage in the main line and/or it's filter that is affecting performance. It really doesn't take that big of an "ick" to affect things. A particle like this could be dislodging only after you have ridden a bit before it finally repositions itself in the line or filter. How wise of you to "pre-test" the ride to the dealer so that you can note the things you'll need to handle as a new rider! Also, you CAN run the motorcycle in Reserve on a full tank and for the entire way . . . this will keep you from stalling during that hour ride and does not hurt the bike in any way. If you experience no problems in Reserve, it will be a big clue to the dealer's service person! – Mama Wednesday, August 9 1982 CM450A Hondamatic in Ontario, Canada Dear VTwin Mama, Wednesday, August 9 Dear VTwin Mama, My story is so much like so many but here goes: In January of this year, I lost the love of my life . . . at the age of 50 he had a massive heart attack while playing racquet ball. It's been 7 months yesterday and I still cry nearly every day in missing him. My point is that Piggy (that was his biker name!) had a love of motorcycles like no other and we rode everywhere! He had an '87 HD Police Special, a Boss Hoss and a custom chopper, and on each an every one we had a blast ! In 2003, we were hit from behind on the chopper and my man saved my life by holding on to me and riding it all the way out . . . he was hurt pretty bad but saved me from a lot of serious injury . . . and we still rode once we healed. After Piggy's death, the most important thing for me was to learn to ride. Everyone kept saying "who's going to ride T. now that Piggy is gone?" and all I could think was why did someone have to ride me . . . let me ride myself !! So, I took the MSF class and just like Lee in Central NC, on the Figure 8, I dropped the bike and quit right there. I felt that it was a sign that said I was always to ride on the back . . . I couldn't handle it !! But it has been 2 months now and I know more than anything that I want to ride on my own. Piggy wants me to ride, he just wants me to learn how to ride right !! So, ladies, right now I'm looking for pure mental support !! Today, a friend of mine is bringing her Honda Rebel up to work and I am going to start all over again. I have a few . . . no, a lot of concerns, but I am going to give this my best. Wish me luck and keep me in your thoughts and prayers! – T in Delaware Dear T., Yes, your story mirrors many women riders, but still, you are an individual, with personal motivation and concerns. Despite the not-so-perfect experience with the MSF course, like many other women, they gained enough knowledge to then strike out and get some riding time to work on skills. That Honda Rebel is a good bike to get it on. In a personal email to you yesterday, I shared some reminders about your practice session today. Remember that baby steps are good, learning even better, and always stick to your own pace and no one else's! If you find that you could use some teaching aids, my Education Center contains numerous sources of excellent books and DVDs. YOU CAN DO IT! – Mama Wednesday, August 9 Dear VTwin Mama, Using that and exactly what you said about leaning Petra, now am feeling more confident with myself and the bike. I'm practicing to get that "one with the bike" thing to be second nature. Petra, thanks again for a great forum and helping all of us have a place to find answers and share experiences. I'm looking forward to venturing a little further outside of my current "practice and comfort travel zone" after more practice and a few less butterflies. I've taken the Deluxe to work in traffic once and managed to get there and back alive. AND I did the speed limit with a smile and a "queens" wave to the drivers in too much of a hurry. Got mostly smiles and understanding nods. Hey, gotta learn somehow right? – Sharon in Knoxville ;0) Dear Sharon, Thursday, August 10 For T. who is at the beginning of her learning curve and needs some encouragement: Hi, T! Just wanted to encourage you to keep trying. You WILL get there. I had a lot of trouble doing the figure 8 in the MSF course, too. I didn't drop the bike, but I always went waaaaaay outside the allowed space. I finally decided that, since everything else was going well, I would just purposely blow that part of the test and not worry about it, and it worked! I did blow the figure 8 test, but I did everything else right and passed the course. I'm sorry you lost your Piggy, but it sounds like he really would love it if you took up riding. Now it'll be his turn to ride on the back, and I'm sure he will be there. In fact, if you think about it, you won't ever ride alone! Hopefully, knowing he's riding with you will help you pass the course next time. Sincerely, – Li in Florida (note from Mama: thanks for your note on test taking and "seeing" Piggy as a guardian angel of sorts . . . I'm sure he is cheering T. on from the great beyond!) Look at this page
on the Total Motorcycle site. It gives you a great perspective on
how to ride, where to train and what to do. I like everything but the
“off road." My belief is that if I take baby off road, something
terribly wrong has happened! I agree that the Rebel is an outstanding entry bike. I started on a Rebel and loved it. Go back and take that MSF course again. Hang in there. If you are really passionate about learning to ride, you will. I will pray that if it is God's will you will learn how to ride. Just don't give up on yourself. I learned at 52 and if I can learn anyone can. – Bobbye in NC (note from Mama: thanks for the message of support!) Thursday, August 10 Hello Mama, The experienced rider that I ride with was teaching me how to ride with a pack (meaning I had to stop riding in the middle of the my lane). I was ok for the most part, but we were on this street that has an obvious slant to the outside lanes. I immediately had the feeling that I was going to fall, so I decided to move back into the center of the lane (against the slant). No matter what I was doing (or thought I was doing) I could not get the bike back into the center of the lane because I couldn't simply drift over. I finally eased off the throttle and changed lanes when I found a more level section of the road. Has this happened to anyone else or is this just my "lane anxiety"? This has happened to me on the streets as well as the expressway . . . I just feel more in control of the bike riding the hump rather than in the tire grooves or on the incline. Has anyone
fell off their bike from hitting the incline wrong or trying to ride out
of a tire groove? Maybe some reassurances will help me out. Thanks, Dear Karvacious, One of the rules of group riding is the group always maintain a staggered position, with enough room between riders so that if any rider must move from their position, due to an object on the ground in their section of the lane, or any other reason, the rider can temporarily shift without running into the person behind them. The stagger positioning however must remain tight enough so that cars are not tempted to break into the formation in a passing maneuver or any other idiotic thing that comes into their head. When a rider begins working on being comfortable riding in just half the lane, certain skills must be developed more fully. So, given that you had to reduce speed and wait for a more level road section to move over tells me that you are not in full command of leaning and countersteering. These are skills you MUST master in order to proceed. It's time for a practice session. Get to a traffic and distraction free area. Get into second gear in a straight line and try two things. One, bring your knees in and loosely grip the sides of the bike equally, then press one knee into the bike and see how the bike wants to move in the direction you are pressing. It doesn't take much to do this, so easy does it! Two, loosen up your knees, and do the same thing, only this time, press your hand on the handlebar to one side and see how the bike wants to move in that direction. This is countersteering. If and when you are comfortable with these techniques in the center of the lane, let's look at the slant. Whether you realized it or not, you were using some sort of minimal lean or handlebar pressure to stay on course on the incline. Otherwise, you and the motorcycle would have flown off the road. Moving off the incline, at the speed you were traveling, would require that you give the bike a more forceful press on that side of the handlebar to command the bike to move. At higher speeds, you can't steer the bike (twist the handlebar) off line, you have to countersteer (press the handlebar to move the bike off its present course). Is lane anxiety part of the equation? Absolutely! Learning to work with only half the lane brings in a new set of jitters, but the solution is to continue to practice your techniques in the center of the lane and incorporate some half-lane work. You have to understand the exact handling characteristics of your motorcycle so that these techniques are at your command at all times. There is no substitute to practice. In all of this, it is absolutely imperative that your eyes are focused ahead of you. When your head is pointed at, and your eyes are looking at, what is ahead of you, and you use the lean/press techniques, the motorcycle will go to where you are looking! If you look down at the road immediately under your feet or just a few feet ahead, you are inadvertently setting up your "bike commands" to go there. Uck! Never look down! This will set up a feeling of falling quicker than you can "oh no." Ok, there is nothing pretty about getting your tire stuck in a road groove. I'm not sure I can explain it adequately. My technique is to jerk the handlebar to one side with just enough jerk to get the front tire over the lip of the groove. Then, I'm in immediate command of my bike to countersteer the bike back into a straight line. So, if I want to move off the groove to the left, I jerk left and upon clearing the groove, immediately countersteer right. Each of these movements is small . . . just enough to handle the situation. At no time do I have a death grip on the handlebar as this makes it impossible for the front end to wiggle where it needs to go. If I find myself in a grouping of road grooves, I stay in the one I'm in, slow down and look ahead to see where a break or opening will allow me to get clear. Whew! I'm hoping these reviews help you noodle out your next practice sessions. I know that these things might not feel completely natural right now, but with practice you will soon be going down the road with confidence! – Mama Friday, August 11 For Karvacious who is working on skills to handle road slopes when riding the half lane: At first I had problems riding on the outside of the road. Whenever I rode with hubby I would always want to go down the middle when he was leading. I began concentrating on keeping my eyes on the road ahead, at the horizon, in the part of the lane where I was wanting to ride. I found that when I did that I automatically stayed in that part of the lane. It is totally true that you go where you eyes are looking. When I look at the middle of the road, that is where I ride. When I look on the edge of the road, that is where I ride. I could never tell any difference in how the road was slanting, except when stopping. With my short legs, I can only touch on the left on most roads because of the slant, so I learned to keep my balance with my left foot, and put my right foot on the pegs. Then I can keep my foot on the brake when stopped on a hill! I really love it now that riding is not so much effort. Keep practicing! You will get there! – Linwebs (note from Mama: thanks for strengthening the importance of looking where we wish to go . . . it really does make a difference!) Friday, August 11 For T. who is at the beginning of her learning curve and needs some encouragement: Hang in there and keep trying. I took the Beginner Rider class in June and did not pass the test. So went out and bought a small bike - VStar 650 - still learning lots of techniques - yet having a blast doing so. Do most of my riding by myself now - just around the edges of town. Have to ask lots of questions but everyone has been so supportive and helpful - never feel embarrassed. There is no way you will ever regret taking the time to learn - just take it in baby steps and let the rest come as you go. – Anonymous (note from Mama: sticking with it pays off!) And now a message from T.: |
