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More for Biker Chic whose bike is back firing: Backfiring is normal for a Savage when decelerating. Tell her to learn to love it! I did when I had mine. I also missed a trip meter on mine, and someone suggested using a grease pencil to write the starting miles on the face of the speedometer to remind you of the mileage. Hugs, – B. (note from Mama: okey, dokey!) Tuesday, August 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Deb, The first best step is to take a riding course. Some bigger local dealers offer them, you can check your Yellow Pages, or hop onto the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's site to check for classes near you. You'll be started out on a 125cc or 250cc bike. This gives you a chance to see how you do, how comfortable you feel, and how you would like to proceed. If you take to it like a duck in water, then a good place to start your research for the bike that would work for you is my Motorcycles for Short Riders page. Here are bikes listed by make/model, rider's height, and notes on modifications that are most likely needed. It's time to shop! If you found that you're not quite ready for a higher power bike, consider sticking with a 250cc bike like the Honda Rebel or Virago 250. Buy one used, get your practice time in, then sell it when you're ready to move up! Comparison article links on the 250cc bikes can be found on my Type of Bike to Ride page. It can be hard to pick up a bike if you don't know the basic technique that keeps it simple. Take a look at the Pick Up the Bike page for article links . . . that have step-by-step instructions with pictures. Now you'll understand that it is doable! So, off you go to start your research and plan out the steps you feel will serve you best! We can't wait till we can give you a biker wave out on the road! – Mama Tuesday, August 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, I will be 53 next month and don't heal like I did in my twenties. I wonder if I have the right bike. My husband says its not the bike but I am not so sure. This is my second bike. My first was a 185cc and was very low and O only dropped it once. I don't want to stop riding. Should I look at other bikes or is my husband right? Thank you. – Judy Dear
Judy, The chief lesson is about using the friction zone of your clutch and feathering the back brake. Very illuminating! I recently went out and practiced on my new bike (the fourth one in my 26 years of riding) using tennis balls cut in half to mark the course and learned the specific handling characteristics of my bike. Voila . . . a better understanding of the dynamics of all of this! If you mention the VTwin Mama site when ordering, you'll get $5 off shipping/handling costs! Please do this . . . it's cheaper than buying a new bike, and once you've really worked on your skills, you can re-evaluate what you would like to do about that! P.S. there is also a section showing how to pick up your bike the right way . . . very useful!– Mama Tuesday, August 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Connie, This is also a good time to repeat my basic message that every bike rider should get the service manual for their specific year/make/model bike. One good Internet source is Repair Manuals. A wealth of information awaits you! – Mama Tuesday, August 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, So, without the bike running, and the bike in first gear, does the bike roll forward like it was in neutral? That means in fact that your clutch is not engaging (you should not be able to roll the bike at all). Now you've got to look at the clutch cable and adjust it so that it engages. Or it's possible that the cable needs replacement if you're all the way to the end of the adjustment points (look at the top end and also follow the cable down to where it connects to the clutch cable linkage). You'll see another adjustment point there. Also, there could be a problem in what's called the clutch basket, where the clutch friction plates are actually housed. This is probably a wet clutch bike, and it may be gummed up and not allowing the friction plates to come together to transfer the power action. Or the plates or springs might be worn. Depends on the bike year and mileage, etc. So, now, if the bike won't roll forward in first gear, you've possibly lost something between the clutch basket to the trany input mainshaft or internally from the tranny to the output which is the driveshaft. To understand the sequence of events, here is a description from The Essential Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance by Mark Zimmerman: "Here's how they work together when the clutch is engaged: gears or a chain transfer engine power to the clutch basket. The basket transfers the power to the drive plates through the mating slots in the basket and tabs on the plates. The clutch springs and pressure plate clamp the drive plates to the driven plates, transferring engine power through them. Mating splines on the driven plates transfer that power to the clutch hub, and the hub transfers the power to the transmission." So, now it's much more complicated than can be handled by me! Review my first steps and narrow down the problem a bit. Then call the service department of your local dealer to talk it over the phone more. Be as specific as possible, but don't be surprised if they can't troubleshoot it over the phone. Still, it's worth the call. Good luck! – Mama Wednesday, August 3 For No Name whose driveshaft is spinning but the bike isn't going anywhere: You replied that the clutch was slipping?? The clutch couldn't possibly be slipping because the shaft is spinning! Forget the clutch, the clutch is fine. I'd say that the most likely cause of this problem is that one of the gears in the rear hub have stripped, or somehow have come loose. Take it to a dealer as I don't believe these things are user repairable. Good luck and keep up the great work Petra. – Smokey in Australia (note from Mama: thank goodness for readers with knowledge greater than mine! It sounds like this rider needs to get to a shop pronto.) Wednesday, August 3 Dear
VTwin Mama, The courses are designed to push you (at least here in Ontario, Canada they do) but I learned very valuable lessons. Push steering has saved my butt recently as well as a very controlled fast stop. Glad I practiced that one more times than I can count. Every day out there is a dangerous but glorious one. Practice, practice and practice. My husband and I are enjoying our outings and hopefully as my skills get better the rides will get longer. A graduated license still has me off the road 1/2 hour before sunset, at least till Aug 23, so until then I park it before I turn back into a pumpkin! Love the site and look forward to reading more! Ride safe everybody . . . from the newbie on her 05 Honda 750 Aero Shadow – Jackie Dear
Jackie, Wednesday, August 3 For Judy who is trying to solve the dropsies on u-turn type maneuvers: This is for Judy who dropped her Virago on a tight turn.
Learning slow maneuvers is very important, and challenging, and I'm still
working on that myself, but what I got from her letter was that she may
have taken that turn too fast. She doesn't say why she didn't finish the
safety course, but it might be a good idea to get into another class. Late
in the range riding, they really start to emphasize slowing before curves
and turns. When I first starting learning, I didn't really have a good
point of reference for the speed at which I SHOULD be traveling before
making a turn. Wednesday, August 3 Dear
VTwin Mama, Well, I have a new love now and feel so powerful on this bike, not to mention the ease of an electric start and shaft drive (no more chain to oil!). Going from a 750 to a 1600 made all the difference in the world, but I was ready. If I had started out on a bigger bike and tried to learn all the important aspects of riding, I would have been overwhelmed. Just wish I had started riding earlier in life (took the class at 50), but plan keeping on as long as I can sling my leg over. So - I have this beautiful brand new baby with 1,000 miles on her. Got up Saturday morning for a good, long ride and checked the air pressure in my tires. I found the back tire 5 lbs low. I was sick when I found a nail. Took her to the dealer and after $245, was back on the road. Just a reminder to do your routine check before every ride. The $245 is nothing compared to a flat tire in the middle of nowhere, not to mention the risk of it going flat on the freeway at a high speed. Love your site and read it every single day. Faithful Reader, – Pat in Houston Dear
Pat, Wednesday, August 3 Hello
VTwin Mama, Well a year later I took the MSF course and still was scared to death about taking off. Yep, self-fulfilling prophesy . . . I lost control of the bike taking off and dropped it. After talking with the instructor I dropped out of the class after signing up for another one in a couple of months. I went home to work on my "issue." Then I found Jerry "Motorman" Palladino's new DVD - Learn to Ride the Easy Way! It broke down all the steps in such an easy and understandable way. I had heard from everyone, including my MSF instructors to give the throttle a "little" gas and release the clutch slowly when taking off. Guess I needed it to be more specific than that! Jerry said to give it roughly twice as much as idle...well I am over my fear and riding like fool! The DVD also gives you exercises to practice. Excellent DVD for a beginner. My husband says Jerry is his hero since he got me over my bump. – Denise in DC Dear
Denise, She had sent me the Learn to Ride DVD you mentioned . . . and I see why it made a difference to you! The Ride Like a Pro III and the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies are also excellent (I went out with my newest bike and practiced the techniques) and still need to view the Surviving the Mean Streets DVD. I agree that having the practice sessions mapped out for you is a great way to learn . . . you can plan it all out so you don't get overwhelmed and it's easy to share with a riding partner/spouse . . . as it doesn't hurt them to brush up and share. So, you go girl! We'll be giving you your first biker waves pretty soon it seems! – Mama Friday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Still a little nervous, I’m
committed to joining my hubby as a riding buddy rather than a passenger. Like
Jackie, I am the proud owner of an ’05 Honda Shadow Aero, and
I get a smile on my
face when I think about learning to ride well enough to enjoy cruising
with friends and seeing the world a little differently. I
bought the bike about 100 miles from home and Jon (husband) rode it home
for me. Then I put on all of
my safety gear and we went across the street to a school parking lot for
me to give her a try. UH-OHHHHHHHHHH!!
Was I ever surprised about the difference between that little Rebel
and my new ride?!?!? I did
ok, but Jon finally was able to see why I laughed when he said I should
ride the bike home! (I had to
remind him I’d never been out of second gear!!!) THANKS again for the inspiration and
for the community that is created on this site. Very sincerely, Dear
Betsy, Friday, August 5 More for Judy who is trying to solve the dropsies on u-turn type maneuvers: Hi Judy! I can understand how you feel about getting back on that motorcycle after you had that little accident. I also put my bike down and was hurt with a sprained arm and soreness on my back. I am 51 years old and also don't heal like I use too. But after I gave myself time to heal properly, I finally got back on. It took me a month to the day I had that accident. I was really nervous about getting back on but I wasn't about to give up--I wanted to ride, and mostly I was going to ride my own ride and that's actually what I did. I went my own speed, took my time and kept telling myself that I trust my bike and what really helped is that my boyfriend was very helpful and had the patience to wait for me. If you think the bike is too big, get the videos and go some place where you can practice more and take your time and you will know when you are ready!! It's a wonderful feeling to be able to get back on and do what your heart is telling you what too do!! hope everything works out well for you and ride safe!!! – Debi (note from Mama: you're a peach for sharing this letter of encouragement! The fact is that our mechanical beasties do have certain handling characteristics that they always follow, so it's up to us to learn what they are. This takes practice. Remember, our bikes follow our "orders" and cannot guess what we really meant to do! That's why, even after 26 years of riding, I took the time, and still work on, mastering the particular nuances to how my newest bikes reacts under all sorts of conditions and circumstances. Just because I got it down pat on one bike, doesn't necessarily follow on another bike. True, some techniques are generic to all bikes, but being a skilled, safe rider means learning and paying attention to the smallest of details specific to our ride. Practice, at any stage of the riding experience, is a good thing!) Friday, August 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, To try and remedy the situation, I changed the oil at 2600 miles with Honda GN4 10w-40 and a Honda filter. Didn't change a thing. I now have 3300 miles on the bike, and the noise is the same as it has been since 2200 miles. By the way, the noise seems to be more pronounced once the bike is warm and has been ridden a while at freeway speeds. So next I took the thing to the local dealer. Two guys came out, listened to it rev up for 5 minutes, and said the bike is fine. I rode away a little peeved, as they wouldn't take it for a spin. Today, I was riding past the dealer I bought it from, so I decided to take it in there and see what they say. I had to beg the service manager to come out and look at it.... He revs the bike for about 30 seconds, shifts thru some gears and engages the clutch back and forth, then turns it off. He tells me it is likely just noise from the "clutch basket" wearing in, and that he wouldn't worry about it right now and it is basically normal. He then proceeds to tell me that it is normal for motorcycles to go thru a clutch every 10k-12k miles. My mechanic friend was with me when I took it in, and as soon as the mechanic left our presence, we both starting talking at once about how much of an idiot the guy must be. Now I don't know anything much about bikes, but I am pretty sure it is not normal to have to replace the clutch every 10k miles on a Harley, let alone a Honda!!! And the guy said he could hear the noise go away with the clutch disengaged... Well since you can hardly hear the rattle while just revving the engine (if at all really), how would he know? He said I would have to wait 2 weeks to get someone to ride the bike if I wanted... I said no and left. Now I don't know what I should do... This rattle is just annoying me. It doesn't sound super loud or like something is really super wrong... but I just want to know if it is normal wearing in or what have you. So I am hoping you might have ideas or suggestions here?? Also, I took the air filter cover off for the first time yesterday, and had to clean about 1 tablespoon of oil out of the filter area. I wasn't too surprised by that though, as several people here have mentioned on forums I watch that oil can get up the breather element in the air box (mostly at idle) and cause this. Just thought I should mention that in case it matters to this question. Any and all comments are welcomed and begged for here.... I am really getting annoyed by this noise! – Kyle Dear
Kyle, What I will note from reading your letter is that none of this started from the beginning, but rather, after you had put 2200 miles on the bike. Have you pulled your spark plugs and looked at the gap end? Some basic clues are as follows: If the gunk is black, wet and shinny, you've got an oil fouled plug that may be caused by worn rings and pistons, loose valves, a weak battery, faulty ignition wires, circuit breaker trouble, a weak coil or a cold plug. If the gunk is dry, fluffy or sooty black, that's gas fouling, a result of a too rich carburetor air-fuel mixture, a lot of engine idling or a cold plug. If the gunk is dry, glassy and brown, that's an overheated plug caused by too lean an air-fuel mixture, a hot running engine, valves not seating, improper ignition timing or too hot a plug. Also look at the center electrode under the L-shaped group electrode (gap end) . . . and note if there is wear indicated by a rounding (rather than crisp edges). At this point, you may just want to change out the plugs and see if it remedies the noise. While it may be far earlier than the recommended maintenance schedule would call for, different riding patterns (like lots of slower speed, in town rides) can wear a plug faster than "normal." In regard to the oil in the air box . . . it may simply be that you've overfilled the bike . . . adding a bit of extra oil will do this . . . so stick to the recommended oil fill level and make sure you're reading the oil fill window right Fie on the dealer's service manager for not taking your bike for a two minute spin. I'd continue hunting for a dealer or independent shop that will address your concerns seriously. No, clutches don't wear out as described to you, but the clutch cable does eventually get to the point where it no longer can be adjusted to keep the friction zone in place and has to be replaced. So readers, any thoughts on what Kyle's bike is doing?!?!?!? – Mama Friday, August 5 For Marlene who dumped her bike navigating a hill stop with sharp turn thereafter: I have dropped two bikes, once each. Having read about how experienced riders drop bikes all the time (& that there are really two types of motorcyclists – those that have dropped their bikes and those that are going to); I thought I wouldn’t (of course), but when I did the first time I stepped off easily as the bike was going down. This is accomplished by shifting your weight onto the outside peg and swinging your inside (underneath) foot off that peg and away from the bike – you will end up straddling the bike briefly, simply step over or hop completely over it (quickly if it is still running). At least, this is what happened the first time. The second time was on my newer, heavier bike, while going downhill. I used the front brake too much and the back wheel slewed around, dropping the bike on its left side. Mine is a Honda Valkyrie with a Gold Wing engine (those engines sit sideways in the frame in front and are protected with an engine guard). This kept the bike up off the ground far enough that, even though I completely forgot my earlier experience and rode the bike to the ground and would have been pinned on a smaller bike or one that didn’t have an engine guard, it didn’t touch me. Something to be said for the bigger bikes! Using the front brake was my downfall for both instances. I was rather surprised that you [VTwin Mama] suggested using the front brake to the reader earlier this month who needed practice going downhill in gravel. You are right, however; gravel sucks. Another time I was riding behind my husband (which sucks all by itself – but that’s another story!) when we passed a sign that said ‘pavement ends in 500 ft’. We kept going but after 5 miles of gravel we debated about turning around, but thought the pavement would start again shortly. 7 more miles of gravel were traveled before we hit pavement again. It was that gawdawful washboard stuff that was liberally covered in potholes. The springs on my old Magna were just NOT up to that! It about shook all the fillings out of my teeth! Still, loose gravel on pavement is by far and away the worst, particularly on corners! – Amy in Washington (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your "getting off the bike in a hurry" technique. Sometimes the oopsies happen so fast that there is literally no time to do something, but as noted, having battle action plans in place helps when there IS that split second of pulling/throwing the body out of harms way. As to gravel, it's use should simply be banned nationwide and then we wouldn't have to struggle with best practice techniques, because IMHO, no matter how lightly you apply brakes in gravel, and yes, there are times when you do need the brakes, gravel inherently has its own mind and makes all the "rules" go out the window faster than you say, "omigosh, what a pain in the neck!" So, I duck walk gravel in first gear, but 12 total miles in it would be one of those days where I'd demand a cold beverage at the end!) For everyone who is trying to lower a 2005 Harley 883 model: Wanted to let you know of a company we found online in Colorado that makes shocks. We bought 10 1/2" shocks for my bike and put them on tonight. Works like a charm. Took it to a Harley serviceperson and he said everything looked fine. Nothing rubs. It's great. Check it out. www.skullenterprises.com. 800-828-9672 and ask for Mike. It might help another shorty. – Betty (note from Mama: these are definitely the shortest shocks I've heard of for the 2005 model . . . so a good solution since a lowering kit doesn't seem to be on the horizon yet. Thanks for sharing!) Monday, August 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, Of course now I'm really nervous riding. I keep thinking I'm gonna crash! I have a 2000 Honda VLX that I find difficult to maneuver. Is it the bike, or is it me? Should I have a different bike or would I feel this way on any bike? How do I get over my fears? Thanks for a great site. It's very helpful and encouraging. – Scared To Ride Dear
Scared To Ride, New riders who experience their first oopsie are confronted with the first-hand knowledge of what can happen when things don't go right . . . a very hard lesson brain-wise . . . when all the time we try to be safe and cautious and alert for things happening around us. "Not me" we scream inside ourselves and then are left with doubts all around as we attempt to align how we felt before . . . and after. I sincerely doubt that the outcome would have been any different on another bike . . . as it appears that you simply got caught in a bad situation that truly is the nemesis of any rider . . . gravel and sand. So stop kicking yourself or the bike over that one. Still, you note that in general your VLX is difficult to maneuver. Ask yourself if this is simply because you could really use a lot more practice time in an empty parking lot, learning the specific handling characterizes of your bike. Believe it or not, practice sessions for slow turns and u-turns, cone weaves, feathering the back brake, friction zone time, and controlled stops from a higher speed/gear are essential things to get down pat. Even when I'm on the road, I often try different combinations of things to re-remind myself exactly how fast my bike shifts down, how different the bike is when I use only the front brake, back brake, and both in combo, etc. Perhaps you meant something else about it's maneuvering, which again, could be attributed to your newness on the bike (higher speed curves, etc.) and once again, practice is the key. Now, it's possible that the bike just isn't right for you in its current configuration. Is it too heavy to push around, are the controls located so that they are truly comfortable, are you flat-footed at a complete stop? These are some of the things to review. Modifications could be made to make things right. If you're really not sure what 's giving you the "not right" feeling, go to dealers and sit on bikes. Pay attention to all the details and compare to your current bike's set-up. This might help you identify and isolate what's up. DON'T dismiss how the bike feels to you . . . take the time to be honest about it and get to the root of the feeling. How to get past the jitters? It's off to an empty parking lot for you for some distraction free practice sessions. Have your boyfriend go with you on his bike . . . set up cones or tennis balls cut in half to mimic traffic patterns, turns, weaves, etc. and get your sense of control back. Plan out in advance what you want to get out of each session (yes, plan more than one!) and share thoughts and compare how it's going. I've often mentioned the Ride Like a Pro DVDs and I think you're a perfect candidate for the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies (slow speed maneuvers) and Surviving the Mean Streets (learning to handle things before they become a problem). You could watch these with your boyfriend and again, plan out practice sessions. Mention the VTwin Mama site and get $5 off the shipping/handling costs! Now, grit your teeth and get on with it. You are NOT ALONE, you are NOT INSANE, you are NOT THE FIRST PERSON TO QUESTION WHAT TO DO TO GET PAST THE JITTERS. But the bottom line is, it's up to you to be honest with yourself, say what you need, take the time to noodle out the solution set, and then do it. I know you can. This is your Mama talking! – Mama Monday, August 8 More for Jennifer who didn't pass her course the first time, but continues to work on it: Super bowl weekend was when I first took the MSF class and didn't pass. I was so upset, I missed by four points. It wasn't that I thought I was so good but other people passed that were worse than me. I was depressed for days. Now I see it was a blessing in disguise. I really shouldn't have passed, I wasn't ready but I didn't see it that way at the time. After the class I started riding my bike to get more practice so I could take the class again, one Sunday I went out with my husband on a curvy road, I was doing the speed limit and felt I was doing great. We stop and had a chat and he said you know you can do the curves faster than the speed limit, which I knew from a car but didn't feel that comfortable on the bike. Well you guess it, the next curve; I tried to go faster and didn't make it. As I was lying on the side of the hill I decided I was going to learn to ride no matter what. I rode my bike, with bent handlebars, ten miles back to bike shop. I signed up and took the class again and passed in April. If it hasn’t been for this web site I would have thought I was all-alone and couldn't do this. Everyone’s trials really helped me feel I could learn to ride. Today I ride my own ride, take it slow and practice, practice, practice, everything I learned from this web site. It's amazing how practice, practice does help. I love this web site, I learned it’s ok to drop your bike, guys do it to they just don't talk about it. I do have a problem I am not sure what to do. My clutch hand hurts and get swollen after just riding a short time. I have a 2002 883 and they don't make an easy clutch for that year. I went to the doctor and he said I have tendentious, so I brought a brace, not sure if that's going to work. I looked thru back pages to see if anyone had this problem but I didn't find any information. Thanks again for a great web site and all the encouragement. Also you can teach an old dog new tricks, I am going to be 60 in a couple months and riding has turned back the clock for me. – Bonnie from Northern California (note from Mama: Happy Birthday a bit early! Thanks for sharing with Jennifer to once again emphasize that NOBODY is alone in their struggles. Have you checked in AMP's Power Clutch product? This may be a solution for you.) Monday, August 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, My
motive is we do a lot of long distant riding; it is not unusual for us to
take a 1200 mile trip. We have had two or three trips over 2500 miles.
On the interstates if feel my bike really winding out, especially
after 65-70 mph. The manufacture says the bike will do that all day
long, but I feel the push. So I was considering something with
more horsepower. I really love my Aero 750 and I am very comfortable
on it even after I had a crash on the Dear
Kay-T, Monday, August 8 For Shirley whose son said she shouldn't even drop her bike even once: Forgive me for sayin’ so Shirley,( ‘cause I know how protective us moms can be with our children….) BUT your son is bein’ a poop head. This summer marks my 40th year of riding. I’ve been through extensive rider training, carry 3 certifications to train riders, have logged tens of thousands of miles and I STILL drop bikes. I tell my students 2 things about dropping a bike. First, it’s a right of passage…. Because, #2, There are 3 types of bikers; those that have dropped their bikes, those that WILL drop their bike and those that lie about it. It’s all part of the learning process. Put the ‘drops’ behind you and log them as part of the learning curve. Ride Safe, – HammerLady (note from Mama: and there you have it . . . sage advice with one whose riding years far out number our own! Take it to heart Shirley, HammerLady always tells it like it is!) Monday, August 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, The boots I got were the Combat 208. The smallest they had were still a size bigger than I normally wear, but they were still very comfortable Please let everyone know that the styles are a little on the radical side, but they can cover them up with their jeans and if it means better handling of the bike, then it is well worth it! – Phoenix Dear
Phoenix, Monday, August 8 For Andrew who bent a footpeg on an oopsie and is trying to fix it: Because I too have dropped my VS1400 and bent the footpeg: Andrew you shouldn't need to replace the whole footpeg because it's bent. Look under the peg itself, you should see two phillip head screws that hold the outer case and rubber of the peg on. Undo those and pull off the outter case and rubber. Under that you'll see the metal stay which is the part that's bent. I use the box end of a wrench, slide it over the stay and bend it back down where it belongs. Re-attach the rubber and outer case and you're good to go. – HammerLady (note from Mama: first hand knowledge helps!) Monday, August 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Linda, Tuesday, August 9 For Linda whose footpeg rubber is loosing its grip: I have an easy fix with the non-grippy Kuryakyns. I should think that scuffing that rubber grip surface either with some rough cleaning pads (like Scotch-brite green) or some fine sandpaper would expose more grippy (non sun-weathered) surface. One caution though: watch those shiny parts! – Marina (note from Mama: scuffy it up!) Just a thought: since I am a gardener also, you can buy a product in the paint department of your local do-it-yourself home store that you dip tools in for a good rubberized grip. You can dip it as many times to get the thickness you want. Works great and, considering, I REALLY beat my tools up, it should work on pegs. It's located in the paint department and is not a spray. There are a few different brands but just ask your salesperson there and they should help . . . comes in all different colors too! – Kathy H. (note from Mama: interesting!) Tuesday, August 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Well lately I had seen LOTS of women on their own bikes. I decided that needed to be me. I bought a 2001 Suzuki Volusia figuring that then my husband, who had never ridden before, could get the bike of his dreams, a 2006 Road King Custom. My problem is that in the first three days I had the bike I was super scared. I dropped it three times, and broke a rib and several bruises. Now 3 weeks later, I am trying to get back on and ride. I am petrified!!! Wimpy tears, and body shakes and everything. My husband got his bike and wants me to be ready to go. I just don't know what to do to get over this. Reading on your site earlier encouraged me, so after a few dry runs tonight, I got on and did a loop in the yard. I parked the bike and cried, shakes and all. What do I do now? In order to ride I have to ride 2 1/2 miles gravel to get to tar. I can ride in a straight line forever, but the turning is a huge issue. I will have to turn around at some point. I have three boys watching me to see what Mom does. I tell myself, I am not the only one who has done this. Can someone walk me through this? I am scheduled to take the rider training course on the 20th and 21st of August but am being pushed by many of the men in my life. Give me baby steps if you can. It is an internal dialogue I am not winning. Also, I have fibromyalgia. This does not help the issue. I don't want it to win. Anyone out there hearing me on this? Maybe I should just stick to scrapbooking and beading!!! – Angeleyes1213 Dear
Angeleyes1213, First, you need to let that rib completely heal (if it's still tender) so you'll be in decent shape for your riding course in twelve days. Congrats on the "new" bike, but let it sit in the garage until you get some current riding time on that smaller bike they'll have at the course. You need to get you motorcycle legs back! With your previous riding experience you should do pretty good, but don't get lax on learning . . . drink in all the lessons, all the details, all the course drills . . . and invest in some tennis balls. Yes, tennis balls. When you've passed that course, it's time for someone (probably hubby dearest) to ride your Volusia to a distraction free, level, paved, empty parking lot. It's time to practice on the new bike! Cut the tennis balls in half, set up similar drills you did in the course, and then do them on the Volusia (great bike by the way!). Plan out several practice sessions and then some local riding on paved streets, then more traffic work, etc. By the way, these drills are equally important for your husband to work on . . . anyone can go in a straight line as you noted, but it's the rider who knows their bike's handling characteristics inside and out that has the best chance of handling the stuff that comes up fast and can be wicked. Now, you may be tempted to just get on the bike after finishing your course, but riding through gravel is very much aided by a practiced understanding of first gear and slipping the clutch in and out of engagement to completely control a steady forward movement. It's important also not to take a death grip on the handlebar . . . the bike actually does better if you give the front end some wiggle room. Turns at very slow speeds are a matter of slipping the clutch to control the ratio of clutch engagement to throttle power, feathering the back brake to help maintain the bike upright, and looking with your whole head (not just your eyes) to where you want to go. So, while we often use the expression "it's just like riding a bicycle" to describe how easy it is to pick up where we left off on something, a bike with a motor takes a little bit more than that! Take heart, you've got the desire, the bike, and soon, some time on a smaller bike coming up! DON'T let anyone tell you about your own ride. If you sit down with your husband and discuss all of this, I'm sure you'll find that he would rather you take the steps needed so that your confidence grows steadily instead of shooting off into the wild without the skills you need to relearn . . . depending on where you live, you have many months yet of good riding time this season. Why hurry?! Say what you need so that riding becomes something you love again! – Mama Tuesday, August 9 For Kyle who is noodling out a rattling noise on an Aero 750: I wonder if it is possible that something has just rattled loose and now vibrates annoyingly at certain RPMs? I mean, most of the problems I've had with my bike have simply been vibration related. All sorts of things (screws, nuts, etc) can simply loosen up as the bike runs down the road. Anyways, checking that each nut, bolt, and screw on the bike is still firmly fastened might be something simple to check first. In fact, this is a good idea for just about everyone. And if something is loose, well, Loc-Tite BLUE (or another similar "Threadlock" product) can be your new best friend. Considering how new the bike is, the problem really probably is something straightforward, and sometimes experienced riders and mechanics might not even notice something like a buzz from a loosened plastic bit or other part. – Marina (note from Mama: good point!) Tuesday, August 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, My husband and I rode Rte. 6 up in northern PA this weekend. Went out to Wellsboro and were going to the "Grand Canyon" of PA. The ride was fantastic. We put on over 250 miles getting there. Made several stops along the way to stretch, rest and get refreshments. Not bad. The ride is an easy 40-55 mph two lane highway that stretches and curves on and on. Hardly any traffic and very relaxing. We hadn't made reservations for a place to stay, so when we arrived in Wellsboro, after an eight hour ride we couldn't find a place. (note: make reservations) Pulling into a driveway of a motel, my hubby leading, he decides to stop to let pedestrians cross the driveway. I guess I was following a little too closely because he stopped then started and then completely stopped. I did the same except the second "stop" for me didn't happen and I plowed into his rear. The coordination from my head to my throttle hand was not working since I was too tired. First mistake! Then I accidentally pushed the throttle more and kept going into him. Second mistake. I watched in what seemed slow motion as he went over on his left side and then it was my turn. Oooops! Over I went and the bike (Silver Wing) went spinning on it's side into the street with me. Well, to make a long story short, we were fortunate and weren't hurt. I was mostly embarrassed lying there on my side and thinking that I shouldn't have pushed myself to exhaustion. We did manage to find a place for the night and did get to see the Grand Canyon that same late afternoon. I figured I should just get back on (after a rest of course) and face the fear of "carelessness" on my part. From now on I will make sure I am well rested, well fed, and feeling good about riding before doing something as unnecessary as that again. I will try to remember my true belief of "Ride your own ride" and be safe. Thanks for letting me share this nightmare with you and everyone. By the way, our ride home the next day was so much more relaxing and enjoyable. I recommend Rte. 6 to anyone who lives near this area and gets the great opportunity to see some really pretty scenery. Safe riding everyone! – Marie, aka Scootergal Dear
Marie, Each rider has different limits . . . and on my Harley I found that 300 miles a day was the most I really wanted to do, while on the newer BMW, I can easily stretch that to 450 miles a day, with proper rest stops along the way. I've talked with some women riders who can easily do 600+ miles on a big touring bike, day after day. Not me! Yup, it's one thing to say "ride your own ride," and another to fully practice what you know to be true. A great wake-up call to everyone reading this! Thanks for sharing your ordeal . . . it's important stuff to remember! – Mama Tuesday, August 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, I can't ride it. Here's the trouble: when stopped, my inner thigh touches the exhaust pipe heat shield. Besides wrapping the pipe, are there any suggestions on reducing the heat or contact with this area of the bike? Let me add, I am 5'4" and my inner thighs are not thin. I've been told that some Harley Davidson Sportster riders have the same problem. Thanks for the site and the practical information. – Audrey in Long Island, NY Dear
Audrey, Hmmmm . . . I would never advocate wrapping anything directly on the pipe and I'm leery about altering the heat shield as well, simply because it may interfere with heat dissipation of the pipe. We've noted in the past that the material used in ironing board covers is excellent for heat shielding and a cheap fix. You could make a Velcro-on pad to go around your pants leg at thigh level. Choose a colorful pattern and make a fashion statement! Readers, any other thoughts? – Mama Wednesday, August 10 For Marie who wrote in about an oopsie she had while riding when too tired: First, let me say that I also found out the hard way that motorcycling takes much focus, and that trying to reach beyond your limits may be hazardous to your health. I've been down twice with my Honda VLX600. The first time was because I had just received some serious family health news that caused me to lose focus for just that split second needed for that bike to "bite" me. For days afterward I kept telling myself "you should not have been out there!" The second time I was riding the back roads, which they had recently resurfaced with that annoying and patchy oil/shale mixture. Well, not only was that distracting and unnerving, but it was tiring as well. So, instead of getting off the bike when I should have, partly due to the stubborn genes I've inherited, I continued to ride and before I knew it I was you-know-what over tin cups in a curve - a curve I've ridden so many times before but for this split second just simply forgot how to negotiate. So after some road rashes, sore muscles, cracked ribs - I'm also wondering if I'll be able to get back on that "monster." Somehow I know I will and perhaps, actually for sure, I'll take my own advice and stay attentive and alert at all times while riding. "Never get too comfortable and stay on your toes" is what I try to tell myself any time I go out. And I will not go out if I'm not feeling well, haven taken ANY medication that may cause drowsiness, or if I have something serious on my mind that I cannot let go for a while. So I may be off to the parking lots for a while, just to get my nerve back up, and of course to practice, practice, practice. And I'm staying away from those resurfaced back roads too! By the way, since I'm in PA also I may just have to check out the Rt 6 route you pointed out. Sounds wonderful and right up my alley for a cruise. Shiny side up to all! – Kris, aka Lawls VLX (note from Mama: so, it's a two-fer lesson . . . but in sharing your experiences you'll help other readers who also have that stubborn gene understand the very real consequences of inattentive riding. Heal fast and get some short practice rides on the beastie and you should be back in good riding form. You're a brave sister for sharing!) Wednesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, A quick, humorous personal story: last year I had heart bypass surgery and, although my surgeon let me drive a car after two weeks, he wouldn't let me drive my motorcycle for six weeks. He is a rider and pointed out that sometimes, when stopping, you put your foot down and the ground isn't there (slopped pavement, pothole, slippery gravel, etc.) and the bike leans more than normal. When this happens, the instinctive reaction is to stand it back upright, which can mean lifting 50 or even 100 pounds - not a good thing with a new incision in the chest! He did approve my riding as a passenger behind my wife, so, for a month, I was a motorcycle passenger. Wow, did we get the looks and comments - what fun! I actually enjoyed it because I got to enjoy the scenery without having to worry about controlling the motorcycle. Now we sometimes share one motorcycle in a scenic area - I'll ride one direction with her as a passenger and she'll ride back with me as a passenger. – John Geda Dear
John, What a unique perspective you have shared on riding as a passenger behind your wife . . . I don't doubt you got stares! I love that you took it all in stride and decided any riding was preferable to no riding and that now you share up-front duties. Can I simply say that it's wonderful to hear "enlightened" male commentary and I'm glad that surgery repaired your loving heart to keep it pumping! – Mama Wednesday, August 10 For Angeleyes1213 who is getting back into riding and have a jittery time of it: One more suggestion that might help – practice with a smaller, lighter, bike. A small dirt bike or dual-sport that’s not too tall, something in the 125 or 250cc range, might just fill the bill, especially since you’ve got to learn to ride in gravel. Just riding back and forth in all that dirt and gravel will get you accustomed to the feel of it, and if you drop it it’s not that big of a deal. Just make sure you wear protective gear! Once you get the feel of riding in dirt, it will be easier on the bigger bike too. As for the fear factor, having been there myself, you just have to keep trying it. I took a very minor tumble on my daughter’s dirt bike once (not wearing a chest protector- big mistake - I wasn’t seriously hurt, but the bruising was incredible), and for the next 6 months I was absolutely terrified by the slightest incline, up or down. I just had to keep practicing hills until I got over it. Keep trying, you’ll be back on 2 wheels and enjoying it soon! – Ellen (note from Mama: excellent suggestion on specifically working on the long gravel road issue using a smaller bike . . . why tackle one of the hardest obstacles in riding with a bigger beastie right off the bat, especially since the rider overall is in the re-training phase of riding.) There is a good possibility that I too may have fibromyalgia. I have not been diagnosed with it yet, but have been diagnosed with IBS and that is usually a part of it. In addition, I have all the symptoms. I know the cracked rib and bruises does not help and please give your body time to heal. It is bad enough that you are in pain anyway with the fibromyalgia. You will find, once you get your confidence up, that the vibration from riding will actually make you feel better. I know that sounds crazy, but it works for me! One of the symptoms of fibromyalgia is feeling weak. You do not have to have super human strength to ride a motorcycle. It is a matter of balance and learning how to coordinate the friction zone of the clutch and brake. As you learn and grow in riding, do only what you know you are capable of doing.. Do not let anyone push you into trying to do something you cannot do. You are the only one that knows how you feel, no-one else does. Let the bike do the work for you, for example, when parking, position the bike for the easiest way to get back out. IE: pulling into an uphill parking spot so the gravity downhill will help in backing the bike out. and vice versa, backing into a declining parking space so that the engine of the bike will pull you back out of the space. If you are in a situation where you need help, don't be embarrassed to ask for it. If you feel you can handle it yourself, take as much time as you need to do it! Again, do not let anyone push you! Fibromyalgia is very much misunderstood. I too will not let it win! I have been riding for 16 years and my love for riding goes very deep! I will do anything, even fighting my own body, to keep riding. Other people may think that is dumb, but when you have a passion for something, you will overcome any obstacle, to do it. Good luck to you, I know you will get over your fears and I hoped I helped in some small way. – Phoenix (note from Mama: every time a reader shares from first-hand experience it helps! My own sister has not given up when confronted with fibromyalgia, EBV and chronic fatigue . . . what fortitude, what a can-do attitude, what determination not to let life pass her by despite the bad days. Lots of good points in the letter to mull over!) Wednesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Sandy, Still, I opened up a couple of aftermarket catalogs to take a closer look at forward controls. I could see that not all controls are built the same! In some pictures you can see that the actual brake pedal is much closer to the foot peg portion, there are controls which don't have such a long bolt-on portion, and there are even controls made with adjustable positioning. I'd double check to see if your current set-up is adjustable (just in case!) My next suggestion is to get the free aftermarket catalogs and do some shopping! J&P Cycles and Dennis Kirk are just two that I can think of right off the bat. Armed with this knowledge, you could take a closer look at the exact configuration of your current controls and make some comparisons. Yup, it would be pricey to replace, but as you note, this bike isn't going to be comfortable and safe otherwise. I couldn't identify a kit to bring your current controls back a bit. Readers, any solutions other than new controls? – Mama Wednesday, August 10 For Audrey whose thigh is hitting the exhaust pipe heat shield and it's not comfortable: Like VTwin Mama suggests, the ironing board cover, cut to size of course (would look ridiculous whole, ha, ha), is the greatest thing ever. Hubby had Frogg Toggs rainwear that was constantly melting when they touched the exhaust. I cut up my ironing board cover, since I hate to iron and hardly do anyway, and sewed onto each inner calf area two patches. Never thought to use Velcro, which I think is a great idea! The only problem was that the ironing board material is not waterproof and since I hadn't repaired the holes in the Frogg Toggs he did get a little wet. But, the ironing board cover patches work! A little padding on the underside would really do the trick and like Mama says, you could get creative with the many designs out there and make your own statement! Love it! Ride safe! – Marie, aka Scooter Gal (note from Mama: yup, I melted a bit of my FTs as well on the inaugural run and will take your advice on the patching possibilities, as I really like the suit overall.) Wednesday, August 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lou Ann, Wednesday, August 10 For Scared To Ride who dumped her bike and now has the general jitters: I had another thought for Scared to Ride who got some owies dumping her bike in sand. Whew! Deep gravel and sand really are the WORST! I just wanted to suggest that investing in a full set of protective gear may help to ease some of her jitters. While some beefy, padded gear could lead to a false sense of security, I think that in this case, a long-sleeved made-for-riding jacket paired with motorcycle pants, gloves with a decent gauntlet, a full-face helmet and motorcycle boots would have prevented the road rash entirely and some of the bruising. Maybe gearing up in some nice padded gear would give Scared to Ride a little more confidence again at beginner slow speeds. I don't know where she is riding, but HOT is no excuse. Petra, you know that just a year ago I was still riding in Texas, and I geared up completely each and every ride. In some cases (depending on the laws), what gear to wear is a personal decision, but the ritual of putting on the gear can also instill the calmness of mind to follow to the next step. Another thought for the next time gravel appears at the entry to a drive: it's okay to hop off and take a little walk around before riding through. Find the shallow spots and stick to those. One time in Missouri, I nearly had a spill in gravel riding two-up; luckily, my friend sat like a champ and I saved us somehow. After that, I walked all around the campground entry and found two good paths to use in entry and exit the rest of the weekend. Keep at it, Scared to Ride, and soon all these little worries will be behind you! – Marina (note from Mama: good point on getting confidence back by wearing full gear with no shortcuts and I love the stop, look, then proceed advice on negotiating crap roads, etc. Good advice for any rider at any experience level!) Friday, August 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, The
reason I'm so aware of that is my children (ages 20 & 23) share a 1986
Kawi 454LTD. Before the course while I was still on permit I tried that
bike. The seat was low and I could flat-foot so I thought I'd be golden,
right? WRONG! It's very chopper-like with the front of the gas tank swept
up high. I came to a stop sign and promptly fell over. I know just sitting
on a bike in a showroom is different that actually being out there riding
and I don't want to get something that I can't handle. What do you think?
Thanks much, Dear
Shirley, Friday, August 12 In response to Lou Ann's posting about the use of ICE, In Case of Emergency: Lou Ann brings up a great idea with the ICE in your cell phone. It's been in a lot of the EMS literature and in the news in the last month. I just added it to my cell phone yesterday. I do want to point out that everyone should carry medical information as well as emergency contact numbers in their wallet or on their person (if their wallet isn't on them). Take for example an emergency call I attended just yesterday. A cement truck broadsided a mid-sized sedan. The impact rearranged the contents of the car including the driver. There was no cell phone in sight. The patient had such a severe head injury that we had to sedate him and place a breathing tube immediately. Even before we did this he wasn't able to speak at all. He was identified in the ER by his driver's license in his wallet located in his back pocket. ICE is a wonderful idea, but it only works if you have your cell phone with or near you. Most men carry their wallet on them and handbags are usually larger and easier to locate than cell phones. The most important information we, as emergency medical providers, need is medical information so we know how best to treat our patient. If the situation is serious enough the patient may receive treatment before there is time to call a contact person. Many times when an emergency contact person is called they're too shook up to remember anything about medical history. I digress. Please, add ICE to your cell phone AND put your medical history and medication list in your wallet. Your local EMS and ER will thank you if it's ever needed! Other options include a medical information carrier system that affixes to your helmet: http://www.whitehorsepress.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_14&products_id=98 Or, even better! Consider a medic alert bracelet or necklace. There's even a tag developed for joggers that laces onto your shoe! Nice and practical: Beautiful gold jewelry: Fun and/or great for kids: Thanks and Ride Safe! – Jennifer, a paramedic (note from Mama: thanks for your expanded thoughts on this subject. I appreciate that as a professional you took the time to share this information with us!) Friday, August 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, It's been a year since my last surgery and I decided, hey I might want to get on that bike. So here I went, a whole 2 miles down the road. Full helmet killed me, way to heavy, I was already having trouble keeping my own head up, now I had to add more weight??? So hubby got me a half helmet, so off on another trip . . . this time I pushed myself and we went about 10 miles . . . the whole time me holding onto the strap of the helmet, trying to keep the wind from ripping off my head. After that trip, a lot more pain, but the feeling that I got from that ride . . . I felt as though-what a great therapy. Only been on a few trips, not even long ones . . .the longest was 20 one way and 20 back, but I felt as though I had climbed Mt. Everest!!!! But the other day, I asked about getting me a bike . . . boy where did this come from!? Long story short, I started looking on-line, came across your site and was inspired. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am 40 years young and getting a motorcycle. Well, got the bike home, a 1987 Honda Rebel 250, put on some jeans, my helmet and my boots . . . but you have to understand . . . I've never drove a bike . . . ever! I was ready, we have a five acre yard, and this year's drought has made it like a concrete parking lot, hubby drove around to see if it would work and handed the bike over to me . . . didn't even know how to start it, but he's a gem and got me going . . . clutch and a little throttle and I was going in circles around my yard . . . on straight aways he yelled take it up to 15mph, so I had to change gears . . .a little jerky. Well, he had me stop, right before a right turn, next thing I know I'm trying to turn but was giving it gas the whole time, but I wasn't turning, the only thing I saw was a fence and trees. Luckily the fence stopped me and down I went, husband looking on waiting for me to cry, but the only thing that came out of my mouth was "well, I did it, I fell" and the only thing that came out of his mouth was " I told you not to use the front brake." Was a litte shaken, but got right back on and he drove around with me, him on his bike, right next to me, helping me along, saying ok here's a stop sign, we have to make a turn and I did pretty good. Bruised shins and knees, ooooo, pain. But I will try again. Thanks to hubby, to all of you and my stubbornness. As for pain, figure it will be there with or without this experience. Fibromyalgia sufferers, I am right there with you. Just trying to enjoy life, it's too short! Thanks again for this site. I'll be visiting it often. Keep trying, keep safe. – Rhonda Dear
Rhonda, |
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