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Tuesday, December 20 For
Angela who is struggling to regain her desire to ride after witnessing a
horrific accident over a year ago: Ask yourself honestly, do you really want to ride again? and why? There is no shame in saying you're done with it. Also, you might need a break for a few years to fully process the horrific events surrounding your friend's death. You may not have realized it when you wrote in but there are two specific reasons you gave for not riding again: 1) ". . . I feel that I have no confidence in my riding ability . . ." and 2) ". . . [you are] waiting for the desire to come back . . ." To address the first issue, I agree with Petra when she recommends an experienced rider's course. If you're concerned with your ability then completion of this course should help. In previous postings Petra has also recommended some great videos and books. Find someone supportive who will help to coach you back on the road; your husband or a local riding group or other mentor. Start easy with short rides through local neighborhoods or rural back roads that see little traffic then work your way back into more populated streets. Do this at your own pace! Remember to always ride your own ride! As far as the desire to ride? That is completely up to you. Everyone's desire comes from a different place. What appealed to you first when you learned you wanted to ride your own? What drew you to the sport and what prompted you to seek help on VTwinMama's site now? I ask myself "why" each time I pull my bike out of the garage. It's only when I'm sailing through the twisties in wooded back roads that I know why. I have a rapturous feeling in my chest and a stupid grin on my face. It is at that time that I fully realize the meaning of life and I am so happy to be alive. I urge you to seek help through therapy. There is no shame in asking for help! Every person is different and what works for one may not work for another. Whether it's a survivors' support group or private sessions; I'd recommend trying them both. Be sure you are comfortable with your therapist. It won't help you at all if you don't trust him/her. And be honest if talk therapy doesn't work for you. Give it a while because emotions are slow to heal. But if you truly feel talking isn't working then ask about hypnotherapy or EMDR. I don't know much about being hypnotized, but EMDR was very helpful in getting me back on the road. It stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Just google "EMDR" and you will find a wealth of information on the subject. I admit I didn't have any faith in it when I first tried it, but it was an amazing process and after one hour I was a believer. I did about six sessions of EMDR and it got me over the worst of it. I'm still processing bits of the crash to this day. Now I continue my day-to-day recovery with yoga. Yeah, that sounds kooky to me too, however it provides me with 60-90 minutes of ME time. If you're thinking pretzel poses let me assure you that's only for those who have been doing it for a long time. The poses or asanas actually start out fairly simply and give you time to just "be" with yourself. Amazingly I've worked out my dislike for my brother-in-law and problems at work and I've also discovered some surprising things (good and bad) about myself during class. Whatever you do, do something. These feelings you have will not just go away if you ignore them. Let me repeat: There is no shame in asking for help! I wish you much luck in your recovery. Best wishes to you and I will keep you in my thoughts. – Jennifer in Wisconsin (note from Mama: I was soooo happy to see your email in my in-box, as I knew you could speak to Angela as a first-hand sister survivor. Thank you once again for chiming in to help as I know you continue to work through your own feelings step by step. You've added some wonderful thoughts in this message and I know it will give Angela more ideas on how to proceed.) I am going to offer an alternative . . . if you feel you really want to ride bikes but don't trust roads and traffic . . . get yourself a small, lightweight trail bike, and go riding on country trails and tracks. This does two things, keeps and even improves riding skills, and avoids cars and traffic. I know many guys, even pro racers, who, having seen or suffered bike accidents themselves now no longer ride on the road, they only off-road on bikes. No shame in that. Angela; if you are at all interested in this idea I will supply a list of trail bikes with low enough seat heights, if you tell me how tall you are. Some off-road bikes can be registered for road use, but I assume taking the bike to riding areas on the back of a pickup or trailer would suit you best to start with. – Kevin in Sydney (note from Mama: an interesting suggestion which I can see has great merit. Thanks for taking the time to share this thought!) Tuesday, December 20 More for Cindy who is getting pressured to leave her neighborhood for riding by her husband: Hi -- I am very new to this whole riding thing and my husband sent me this website link at work, so I would start reading and see that I am not alone. I am pretty terrified to even begin. I have a Triumph America that we just got new shocks for so that it is short enough for me to have flat feet on the ground. I took and passed the motorcycle course, and here I am all ready to ride, but find I can’t get much further than going out and sitting on the bike. I was so glad to see that there are people like me when I read Cindy’s comments, and others. My husband started calling it “his bike” because he has logged all the miles on it for me so far. I really appreciate what everyone has had to say about taking it at my own pace, and to not let my husband’s pushing get to me. I hope to be able to report to this website very soon that I have made some progress. For anyone out there -- I live in Austin, TX and would love to hook up with any other newbies if any are in this area. Thanks Mama for the website! – Newbie in Austin (note from Mama: welcome to the site and the adventure in riding. I'm glad you let let Cindy know she is not all alone in her feelings, and that the postings are already helping you know that you can proceed at your own pace! As to meeting other women riders, why not start with two VTwin Mama sisters I have listed in Austin on my Let's Ride page! While they may be more experienced, they still may be willing to email with you and meet up for beginning rides . . . send them a message, say hi, and ask!) This is for all male partners or husbands who take their female companions riding when said female has only just got the damn bike to start with. Fellows, I have taught many women to ride (doing so now) and the ONE THING YOU ALL NEED TO THINK ON is that women are not testosterone-based creatures . . . the majority of them don't get a rush out of going way fast or seeing how far over they can lean the bike in curves and corners. They need to feel safe, they need to feel secure. They DO NOT need to try keeping up with hubby on a mountain road at double the suggested speed limit! You need to: A: Have patience. When I am with new riders I stay at the posted speed limit, EVERYWHERE! If I think they might not know the road, or I know it's a tight blind corner, then I SLOW down, because if I enter it fast and they are following me, chances are they will attempt the corner at the same speed as me. Most important of all is to keep thinking about THEM, not yourself! Now get the missus, get back out there, and show her what a wonderful experience motorcycling can be. Note: Most of the above applies to first time pillion passengers also. Want to keep dating that hot chick from the store? Then don't scare her to death the first few times she gets on the back of your bike. Brothers are notorious for scaring the bejesus out of sisters on bikes. I have met so many gals who refuse to climb on a bike now, because the brother went crazy the first time she ever got on it with him. Here endeth the lecture! – Kevin in Sydney (note from Mama: but what a GREAT lecture it is! I especially like the admonishment that as an experienced rider you have an important and wonderful opportunity to bring a new rider into the fold . . . to share the joy! Use that opportunity wisely at the outset, and the happy grin on her face is yours forever!) Tuesday, December 20 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Leslie, I'm not sure what the readers will recommend, but for my money, I'd take that seat to a professional upholsterer in the area so that the shaving and re-work of the leather cover will be handled correctly. If they have any questions, Mustang can be contacted toll free at 800-243-1392. Alternatively, check this page on Marina's site, which lists a number of companies that specialize in motorcycle seat work. – Mama Tuesday, December 20 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Ben, And yet, it does no good to alienate the very people that love you with all their heart. As a young man you are learning that it is helpful to address concerns that others have and take that into account as you still proceed with realizing your own goals and dreams. May I suggest that you consider taking an accredited motorcycle riding course? Whether it's through the MSF, a local dealer, or an independent school, this may go a long way to helping your parents realize you are serious about being a safe rider, not just some hotdog rider they probably read about. It also is a good idea in that it will give you more insights into safe street riding techniques and help you form a better idea of the type of bike you want and can handle. Why not do this before committing yourself to selling the car to get a bike? Depending on where you live, remember that Mother Nature can really toss a lot at a rider during her many seasons . . . are you sure you want to brave all the elements every day? There isn't a rider alive that doesn't cringe at riding during a real thunderstorm or truly high wind day. Just some food for thought. – Mama Tuesday, December 20 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Mike, The most direct route designed specially to increase horsepower that I know of is to add a hypercharger kit. Ask the dealer's parts department or search the Internet and you'll find them! This usually involves rejetting the carb, and those parts will be included, with instructions, with any credible kit on the market. – Mama Tuesday, December 20 Hi
Petra, I noticed VTM member "Penney" rides a Triumph Speedmaster. She needs to know about the site because of the wealth of information about her ride. BonnevilleAmerica.com is dedicated to the Triumph America and Speedmaster models, with great wrenching techniques, modifications and well organized forum. There are also many women members for Penney to bond with. Thanks, And Ride Safe, – Dennis Call from Florence, Alabama (member name on that forum: Skillet) Dear
Dennis, Wednesday, December 21 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Stacy, Wednesday, December 21 Dear VTwin Mama, The mid-controls banged my shins when I tried to move the bike and I couldn't reach the ground well enough to get around them. So I got the forward controls and soon discovered that the carburetor cover is quite large and it's very difficult to reach the controls around it. Then I got the Harley Reach Seat but I still am having a problem sliding back which means I am constantly pulling myself up to reach the controls around the cover. Here's my question . . . should I get the Progressive shocks to lower the bike and put the mid-controls back on? Or, should I get the Corbin Close Solo seat? I'm starting to think I moved up too soon w/ the bigger bike but I do love it. At the same time, I'm kind of starting to lose interest because the $$ is starting to add up and its frustrating not knowing which direction I should go. Can you or anyone on your site recommend anything for me? There's gotta be other smaller women out there that have had my problems. Thanks for any suggestions you can give. – Pennie, Desperate female in Gainsville Dear Pennie, Readers, I sorely need your first-hand experience solutions on this one as I am perplexed as to what the best combination solution would be for the least amount of added $$. I did offer Pennie some thoughts in a personal email to her, but I feel like I'm fumbling with the right course of action. – Mama Wednesday, December 21 From Cindy who is taking those first steps to riding outside of her neighborhood: Mama, thanks for such a quick response
on how to overcome my insecurities and getting out of the neighbor hood. I
guess great minds think alike. I got tickled reading your response because
last week I did exactly as you suggested in that I was out in the car
looking for a good area to ride. I drove these routes several times
thinking of how I would handle a right turn, a curve, avoiding a pot hole
and of course the dreaded gravel that makes me sweat. (Years and years ago
my previous husband and I were in a crash involving a curve and some loose
gravel. I’m sure that’s a source of part of my fears). I like your
idea of finding an easy area to ride (which is not close to my house ) and
having my hubby ride the bike to that area while I follow in the car.
I like that idea since I don’t feel comfortable taking sharp curves
right off the bat. If I miss one of these curves that’s close to the
house there will be a pretty big drop. Yesterday I worked on it more and more
until I wasn’t killing it near as often. Its hard for me to get it
going again on the hill after it has stalled out. Squeezing in on the
clutch, holding in the front break, hitting the ignition switch and trying
to give it a little throttle all at the same time without rolling
backwards. Usually I have to put it in neutral so that I can use my left
hand to push the ignition switch and then if it doesn’t die
….again…. then shift into first gear. I’m afraid of letting off the
brake cause I start rolling back but I know I’m not going to get
anywhere until I do. I took this little exercise to my driveway where the
slope isn’t quite as great so I could get used to using the clutch
without killing it as much. After awhile I was doing much better with the
driveway. Today I plan on going back out onto the loop where the hill is
steeper. One of the routes I had mapped out involves one stop on a hill
and I fear the bike dying so that’s why I’m spending so much time on
the hill right now until I get it. (note from Mama:
good, practice is always the key . . . if you feel confident balancing the
bike at a stop with just your left leg, you could use your right leg on
the back brake instead of the front brake to free that up) My thanks to everyone who responded to
my letter. I was thrilled with such a great response and what inspiration
all of you are to me!! Laurie, I live in As all of you have said . . . ride your own ride. Your saying this has given me the confidence to tell my husband how I feel. I think maybe he had even read my post from a few days ago because he is now stressing to me that he is not going to push me and he has been very supportive and patient with me. (note from Mama: yahoo!) He said that he would follow me and let me set the pace and wanted to go to a near by subdivision that is much, much larger than our one little street subdivision. I took off but had to stay in our neighbor hood while I made a few loops through . . . I guess it helped me to warm up and get my confidence before going out on the street for the first time. I was nervous and excited all at the same time. I turned out of our neighborhood into the one next to us and practiced my right turns, stops and working the clutch. I was actually getting pretty bored with it so I told my husband that I wanted to go to the school parking lot that was maybe 2 miles away. I was still afraid of the right hand turn on the 2 lane road so I cheated and went through a neighborhood and made a left hand turn onto the highway. I was still going to have to make a right hand turn at the light and got nervous, chickened out and turned and went into the parking lot of CVS pharmacy and cut through their parking lot and then went on the road to the school. (note from Mama: you weren't ready, so you were smart to seek an alternative route!) We rode around there for a little bit but it was getting awfully cold and starting to get dark. I thought maybe I could make it down to another subdivision to see a friend so I could show off my new bike plus her husband had just gotten a new one. I figured we’d say hi then head back to the house before it got dark. Our quick hello turned into an hour visit and I was getting really nervous about having to go home in the dark. There are a few curves I have to take. I thought maybe my friend could ride the bike home for me since it was dark and then I’d bring him back. All of a sudden I realized that I was probably about to flood the house. I have a 120 gallon reef salt water tank and I have to make the salt water for it, usually about 50-60 gallons. The filtered water runs very slowly into the trash can that I use and I had forgotten about it being on when we left to ride. During our visit I suddenly realized what I had done. I bolted out of my friends house and hopped on my bike and took off. I just flat went off and left my husband. All I could think about was my trash can overflowing and flooding the house and how danged cold it was outside. (it was in the low 30’s). I was also concerned about the curves at night plus I don’t see all that great at night for some reason. (note from Mama: night vision on a bike is always a challenge as we rely on so many visual clues about the dangers around us . . . just make sure you have a clear helmet faceshield or clear riding glasses/goggles . . . that does help) Anyway, I made it home just fine and
in record time. I got there and the trash can lacked about one inch from
overflowing! Wheeww!! My husband came in commenting on what a
good job I did and that I didn’t wobble any at all. He kept on praising
me and that made me feel really good until he said now I could go anywhere
I wanted to. I told him that the ride felt good but I would still have to
do it at my own pace. He said he would work with me with my clutching
while making a turn as Denise was talking about. I think I’ve been
letting the clutch out too soon. Donna, congratulations on your new
V-Star 650. I hope you are really enjoying it . Last nite I
drove faster than I have so far. It was only 40 mph but it sure seems a
lot faster to me. I know I was holding up some cars behind me. It seems
like when I get around 40 the bike kind of feels rough or vibrates a bit
and it makes me feel uncomfortable like I don’t have very much control.
Is this normal? (note from Mama: it's hard to say,
it could just be that you're not use to the bike at this speed, I'd have
your husband ride that bike and check it out, and then you should get
yourself to a straight road where you can get some speed up and get the
feel of it better) Denise, you and Mamma have mentioned
the DVD Riding Like
a Pro for Ladies. I saw a preview of it but it doesn’t show
much except for riding of the cones which we did in MSF course. I also saw
the Riding Like a Pro III. Which of these would be best for me and why?
Also, my husband purchased Street Smarts DVD 1,2,3. What are your feelings
about these compared to Ride Like a Pro? Will Ride Like A Pro have info
that’s not covered in street smarts? He also bought us two books : Proficient
Motorcycling, The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well
and also Proficient Motorcycling, Mastering the Ride. By
David Hough. I’ve almost completed the first book and it has
been excellent and I recommend this book. I’m looking forward to reading
the second one. (note from Mama: at the core of all
of the Ride Like a Pro series is a focus on slow speed maneuvers, using
the friction zone and back brake feathering to handle tight turns and
precision control. The Ladies version uses women riders to show the
techniques, which is nice to see that as they are on big bikes! The III
version adds some high-speed skill sets, and then they have other DVDs
that talk about street strategies and such. In looking at the Street
Smarts, I don't see any description that they work you on the friction
stuff and that's all I could see that they don't address, but you have the
DVDs, so take a look. Ride Like a Pro also addresses picking up a bike and
I'm not sure about the Street Smart series) Several have mentioned talking
themselves through turns/curves etc. That’s funny because that’s
exactly what I find myself doing plus patting myself on my back when
deserved . . . sometimes a little bit so even when not. Just trying
to keep myself psyched up and positive. Thanks for all of the positive input
and I will keep you in touch on how I am doing. As several have
suggested, I will be getting out every chance I get even if its for 10
minutes. I believe I will also do better practicing by myself before
I have my husband ride with me again. That way I can take my time
practicing my right turns or whatever , over and over without worrying
about him getting bored. (note from Mama: don't
assume he'll be bored, ask him! Keep that channel of communication open!
Now that he's understanding what you need, he might want to part of your
learning curve, being there and sharing your experience as you become a
skilled rider!) Thanks again, I’ll be reporting back
on how I’m doing and please give me any tips and suggestions that you
have. Thursday, December 22 To Cindy who was wondering about the different choices in learning DVDs: You asked about Ride Like a Pro. When I ordered the DVD, I spoke with one of the women who was in the videos. She told me that she recommends Ride Like a Pro over the women's version. She said some women like the video just because it's all women, but the standard version goes into a little more detail. I also ordered Surviving the Mean Streets. There are cone exercises in the DVDs but much more advanced than what is in the motorcycle safety course. Admittedly, I haven't done the full cone exercises, but I did really "get" the friction point technique they describe and I practice it and use it constantly and now it's pretty natural. When you nail your first slow tight U-turn it's great! I took the course as my first taste of motorcycles. I wasn't ready for the street after the course. Between reading, practicing, DVDs, and hubby's patient practice sessions, I put it together piece by piece. I was so frustrated and freaked out because I was having to go way too fast to do everything. I was leaning and flying everywhere because I didn't have slow speed control. Holy crap! Ok, I survived! That was how I finished everything. When you go out and practice feathering the clutch or riding the friction point I think everything will click. It gives you so much control. Glad you didn't flood your house! – Denise (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your thoughts on this!) Thursday, December 22 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Marie, Thursday, December 22 Dear VTwin Mama, Is there a good site for information and suggestions on motorcycle insurance? I've heard Progressive is good, but I'm curious if there is a good site out there that goes into depth on what all the various types of insurance mean, and how much of each should you have. Thanks for everything, – Ben Dear
Ben, We've never really gone into too much about insurance at this site in the past, so let's take a look. I found some basic information at the Insurance Information Institute which explains the different levels of coverage and what to consider. For my money, I consider the absolute bare minimum a particular state requires and bump it up a notch (this is the liability portion). If the bike is newer, I go for comp/collision as well with deductibles that keep the costs within range of my wallet. If the bike is a beater, that's maybe not such a big thing, but in either case, you want to figure out what you would need to cover theft, which is in the comprehensive coverage portion (it's easy to lift a bike into a vehicle and steal it, and that's a real problem, and as it will be your sole transportation, you want to make sure about this). So, yes, Progressive is the big name in the m/c insurance game, but there are others. I would make a chart on a piece of paper, and list the various things (liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured, underinsured) in the left column, and note the minimums you have to have with added lines for the next level, and then make columns for each company you might consider (like Progressive, Geico, Foremost, etc.). That way you can take apples to apples and keep all of it straight. The WebBikeWorld site offers a good page on insurance, pointing you to sources of information and lists the U.S. companies that offer m/c insurance. This would be a good place to start your online search. – Mama Thursday, December 22 G'day
Petra, Dear
Kevin, Thursday, December 22 Note from Mama on this posting: Dr. I. had written in letting me know he and his wife really like my site, and when I realized he was an actual doctor, I asked if he would share thoughts on health and riding. Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Dr. Ian, Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Annie, 10:35 a.m. update! Annie wrote in and noted that she is looking for pictures of "bikers" in riding gear, with their pet(s) and their motorcycle somewhere in the picture, digital format, at least 3"x5" (and I'll add at least 300 dpi for proper print publishing). Annie wants to publish the book, a calendar, and greeting cards by the end of 2006. Please include in your email with attached picture your name, pet's names, and mailing address for release form. Let's help out a fellow woman rider entrepreneur! – Mama Wednesday, December 28 Dear VTwin Mama, I took my first ride since the accident on 9/11. I had to be lifted on the bike since I could hardly stand, but I wanted to feel the wind so badly so my friends made it happen for me. Of course my doctors freaked when I told them what I had done but they had come to know what riding means to me. I'm still looking at more surgery in the future but its minor with what I've had already. My heartfelt thanks go out to each and everyone who sent me support. I know I wouldn't be where I'm at today if it wasn't for all prayers and healing energy sent my way. I count myself a very lucky woman to have the support of the motorcycle community from all over the world. – Fly Far, Fly Safe, With Love, Kathleen, aka Blkraven2 Dear
Blkraven2, Wednesday, December 28 Hey Mama, Just had a quick question about a front wheel "wobble" What is that exactly? And if you experience one what should you do? The reason that I'm asking is that lately I have had a "squeaky" front end. I ride an '04 Shadow Aero 750. I had the bike looked at and they couldn't find anything wrong. They said that they just tightened up any loose bolts on the windshield and lubbed whatever should be lubbed. But it still squeaks so I will probably have it looked at by someone else. But in the mean time I can't tell if I feel a slight wobble from the front end or if I imagine it. I usually feel it entering a curve or while in the curve. Am I doing something that could be causing this sensation? It freaks me out because I can see myself flying off the road in a curve and ending up in a heap on the road side! Can you help? – Gloria in So. Cal. Dear
Gloria, Front end wheel wobble is basically a feeling that the front tire is moving slightly side-to-side (sort of like chattering teeth in the cold!) all by itself while riding. This is usually most noticeable while riding on gravel or a grated road (like over a bridge), but that's the normal stuff. The bike's front tire can't maintain a perfect straight line, so it veers a little and it's a weird feeling but as long as you don't take a death grip, forcing the bike to maintain a perfect straight line, it will "wobble" it's way through. Just remember to slow down to handle this! A wheel wobble in a curve will fee like that and could be caused by a number of things. First, bikes with a higher center of gravity or higher front fork rake angle are harder to smoothly move as smoothly around a curve, and a slight wobble feeling could be there. Do you feel like the front end is "chattering" as you head around the curve? It could just be part of the bike's handling characteristics, but read on for more ideas. I'd double check the tire inflation, as too high tire pressure means less tire/ground contact and could be affecting the curve handling. It also could be a condition of the front wheel out of balance or an uneven tire wear pattern or the tire not being bolted and balanced in the fork correctly. However, it could be just your riding skills (yikes!). You may be taking a death grip on the handlebar going into a curve and not allowing the bike to lean into the curve more naturally . . . remember, you don't steer a bike into a curve, you lean into it using countersteering, which is lightly pushing on that side of the handlebar, or lightly pulling on the opposite side. Even an experience rider as yourself could inadvertently be taking a death grip (been there and had to practice lots to stop this!). My suggestion is to go to an empty road where you can build up speed and in a straight line, just countersteer to each side and see what's happening. Then go onto curvy roads and do the same at a slower speed and see if happens, then higher speeds, and gauge your grip, countersteering, etc. You need to pinpoint this down. I am a bit concerned about the squeaky noise you're hearing. I'm sure you've ascertained at exactly what point it squeaks (in terms of speed and what maneuvers you're doing) and where it sounds like it's coming from. If it's just at higher speeds, I'd ask the dealer's service department to take it on the road (if they haven't done so already) to verify your experience . . . not all will "jump" to do this and can actually be quite reluctant (fie on them!) . . . that's your clue to find an independent shop in the area to address your concerns. – Mama Wednesday, December 28 Hi VTwin Mama, Dear
Kong, Wednesday, December 28 Dear VTwin Mama, After a 35 year hiatus, I decided to start riding again. I don't know whether it's mid-life crisis or temporary insanity, but I'm *really* enjoying myself! A few months ago, I took the MSF Basic Riders Course - passed the written with flying colors, but barely missed passing the riding skills evaluation. Boy, did that ever wound my ego! A couple of weeks later, I repeated the skills eval and passed! Now I have two bikes: a 2004 Honda Rebel and a 1983 Yamaha RX50. I just couldn't pass up the Yamaha when I saw it locally advertised. It's so very much like my first bike and it's in amazingly great shape for being 20+ years old. The only thing it's missing is the lid to the rear seat "luggage compartment" (we're talking a really tiny compartment here. Not even big enough for a bottle of water). I've ordered a new lid and replacement hardware for it, but I got a note from the vendor saying that it was backordered. I'm hoping that doesn't mean that they won't be able to locate one. Actually, I was amazed that I even found a place that advertised a part for such an old, limited production bike! Thanks for such a great website. It's really great to have a site for women motorcycle enthusiasts. – Patty in Seattle, WA Dear
Patty, Wednesday, December 28 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Pissenmoan, Thursday, December 29 Original T-shirt Sayings Wanted! Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Dorathy, Thursday, December 29 1977 Hondamatic 750 For Sale Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Denis, Thursday, December 29 For Patty who has opted to ride an older bike: Almost any large city has several motorcycle graveyards. Some are listed in Yellow Pages under motorcycle parts/etc. Most motorcycle repair shops know where these are and sometimes an old (biker) will be happy to tell you. That is where I would look for older bike parts. Ride safe, – Patricia in Florida (note from Mama: I know I see the car graveyards, but didn't think that there would be bike ones too! I use to go to big motorcycle swap meets for older stuff. In both cases it takes time and patience, but little gems are sometimes the result!) Thursday, December 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, The 650 is capable of exceeding 90 mph riding two up (and together we come close to the rated carrying capacity of 441 pounds for the bike!) This motorcycle has no trouble keeping up with freeway traffic, and, although it is not a dragster, will pull away from most cars when accelerating away from a stop. We rode from Michigan to the beach in Virginia in 2004 and rode to the beach in North Carolina, returning by way of the Blue Ridge Parkway this year, so long trips are absolutely no problem. The suspension travel (5.5" front & 4.1" rear) exceeds most Harleys and many other larger bikes and the tires (130/90 16 Front and 170/80 15 rear) are the same as the ones used on the 1100 - also larger than those used on many larger motorcycles. The shaft drive and air cooled engine mean lower maintenance cost and hassles. This is a beautiful, full sized motorcycle that will give years of riding pleasure to anyone interested in a reasonably priced, reliable machine. By the way, I am not in any way affiliated with Yamaha or any dealer - I just love this bike. – John & Kathy Geda Dear
John (and Kathy), For some, it makes sense to start with a 250cc bike to get some practice time in, while others want to choose something with enough oomph to satisfy their riding needs without being overwhelming, and the mid-range cc bikes like the VStar 650 fit the bill. Hence, it often is "referenced" as a "get started on your riding experience bike." I myself started out on a 750cc bike and rode that size for 15 years (and did major cross country trips on them!) before moving up to the 1200cc bikes. You'll get no argument for me that a 650cc bike can really handle any type of riding a person is looking for! – Mama Thursday, December 29 For Kevin who noted a site for colorful riding gear: Kevin, this is not an attack on you, kudos for bringing it up, but I hate to disagree with you, as any woman I have shown those to in my shop all laugh their butts off at those frou frou show leathers. WE feel if you are an umbrella girl they are great or if you are a kid and ride pillion. My first concern is they promote them for sport bike . . . well, if you fall, you will right on your butt and chaps do not cover that part of the anatomy. Now the question is why do they not make bike gear for women that is practical? We do not get gloves with carbon fibre knuckle protectors (maybe one brand does if I am correct). Bike Gear makers LISTEN: Women want to be safe when we ride and we want the same protection the men get in real sizes not mega petite (no offense to those who are). Oh yeah, and all the guys at my shop like the ICon gear for women also. LOL – V45 in Canada (note from Mama: the proof is in the thickness of the leather and the stitching that holds it together. Me, myself, and I (all three of us!) wonder if Kevlar couldn't be built into the thinner leather jackets (that look great!) for better protection!) Thursday, December 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, Even though there is no helmet law here in TX, I am now
using a half helmet. It is much lighter, cooler, I can see and can
hear traffic if I need to. (Oh, that is another thing about the ones that
cover the ears; part of my riding a motorcycle is listening for other
traffic to be safe.) Also my husband of 30 years had never ridden without a
helmet until during a vacation that we took we took a motorcycle tour
witch took us to a state for about 30 minutes that didn’t have the
helmet law. I encouraged him to ride without the helmet for that
short time just to get the “real” feel of being on a bike. He
loved it. He also uses the half helmet. Why use a novelty helmet or beanie if you are going to
wear one at all? It doesn’t do anything for protection. It just
accommodates the law… Yes, they may be a laugh or pretty etc., but
with no protection. Half helmets can be purchased DOT or higher approved. I have never had an accident on my bike. (yes I have
lost balance while at a stand still when my husband yelled something to me
and startled me). I have been in car accidents and I have been hit
by a car as a pedestrian. (My dad was killed by a car that hit
him when he went back to his car, which was parked on the side of a busy
road, to get something from the car. He was thrown 35 feet and was
not recognizable even by the coroner ((who was our neighbor))!!!! So I guess what I am saying is. It is your choice.
Wear the helmet that is most comfortable for you. Watch out for potholes
and objects in the road. Watch out for other vehicles and listen for them
too. Ride safe. I do have one more thing to say. Being here in Have fun and be safe. – Donna Dear
Donna, Thursday, December 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, While riding yesterday about 40 miles from home I went to downshift at a light and realized that somewhere along the way my shifter arm and pedal had gone away! Yikes! Eased off the throttle, gently applied both brakes and pulled off the road into the bicycle lane. Got off, locked the bike up and trudged back up the road about 3/4 mile before finding the long bolt in the left traffic lane, finally found the arm and pedal itself laying in the flower beds of the median. Hiked back to the bike, pulled out my tools and fixed it right there. Completed my ride and headed home where I disassembled the entire thing and put on some Loctite. While I was doing all this about 50 bikers passed me by and only one stopped to see if I was ok or needed help.( he told me he had no tools and wouldn't have a clue what to do anyway). Message here is to periodically check your machine to be sure all nuts and bolts are tight and also to be self reliant if you plan on riding alone. If I had not known what to do and called a tow truck, it would have cost me about $120 or so. As it was, a wee bit frustrating but manageable. – Dorathy Biddinger Dear
Dorathy, As to those bikers passing by, it's my experience that when whizzing by at higher speeds, I'll slow down to give the rider a chance to signal me for help if needed. Otherwise, I assume they have pulled over for a break or feel they can handle the ickie on their own. – Mama Friday, December 30 More for Patty who has opted to ride an older bike: Motorcycle graveyards? We have heaps of them, call Motorcycle wreckers . . . don't they call them that in the USA? Wait, found them on net search, u guys call them motorcycle salvage yards. Ta da. – Kevin in Oz (note from Mama: I looooove when my readers do research! I typed in "motorcycle salvage" in Google and voila . . . lots of listings!) Friday, December 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, So I stopped at home, checked out the bike, and rode it roughly 15 miles to go pick up a gift certificate for mom and back! It was early enough to not have rush hour traffic, just the usual mix of Orlando drivers. It was more congested near the shopping center, but I did okay. Made a few shifting errors, and it will take awhile for me to remember that the turn signals don't cancel on their own, but other than that, it was a blast! The only time I stalled the bike was when I came up our sloped driveway a little too slow . . . and then had lots of fun practice at starting from a slope . . . not as easy as a stick shift car, but I'll keep practicing! I lived and have driven in a lot of areas, including New York City, but I swear Florida drivers are the absolute worst. So imagine my surprise when I only had one car up my butt for awhile. Fortunately I'm passive aggressive, and you know, if you go slower and slower, they eventually go around you. They didn't box me in as much as I had expected, so that initial fear of driving in traffic with several traffic lights to contend with, is behind me. I'm still going to wait until off peak times to ride, but at least I know I can do it. Okay, that's all . . . hope you are having a wonderful holiday : ) – Kat Dear
Kat, Friday, December 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, While the mid-controls give what many feel is better control while riding, you are more likely to dump the bike while pushing it around with mid-controls. If you are riding in the city you are stopped at lights much of the time. Try replacing the Air Cleaner assembly with a different one. The Forcewinder is one that works great for shorter legged riders. It lifts the air cleaner up and forward for more knee clearance. If you can straddle the bike with the factory shocks you can leave them alone, they won't help you reach the controls. If this is giving you problems, try a lowering block. Cheaper than new shocks. You can try removing the cover on your seat and putting an extra slice of foam in the area that needs it. If you do not want to do that your self, an upholstery shop can do the work for you. You do not need to replace the cover unless you are going really thick. Try buying your parts from a local independent shop. Better prices, better selection. Try to stay away from eBay unless you are really comfortable with your selection. Good luck! – Kong Kong, Friday, December 30 In response to Dr. Ian's email about proper hydration while riding: I’m glad you mentioned the Camelbak as a way to stay hydrated on the road. I’ve had one for years and it is an absolute addition to my riding “must-haves." The night before a ride, I fill it halfway with cold water and pop it into the ‘fridge. The next day, just before hitting the road, I add ice till it’s full, sling it on my back and off we go! The H2O is accessed by a tube that hangs over your shoulder. You just put the end of the tube in your mouth, bite down and suck. I’ve also found it to be a handy way to cool the outside of me, as well. I just pinch the end of the tube with my fingers, give the Camelbak a squeeze, and I have my own personal ice water spritz! Great for wetting down the shirt and/or bandana. The ice water in the Camelbak keeps my back cool, too . . . although staying cool isn’t such a big deal right now . . . (well, our riding friends down under are in the middle of their summer right now!) The only teeeeeny negative to the Camelbak that I can think of is that when wearing it, I have a slightly disturbing resemblance to Quasimodo on two wheels. Oh well, if anyone dares to mention that, I’ll just squirt ‘em in the eye! – Laurie (note from Mama: geez, I never thought about the cooling affect on one's backside! Thanks for pointing out all the versatile uses . . . planned and impromptu!) Friday, December 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Looking at Goldwing sales, they never attracted that young sport bike rider anyway. Did they really think they would??? And do they really think someone is going to pay $21,900 for a 2006 Goldwing and $1,800 tax on top of that. You drive off, you've lost $7,000. No one, unless they've got a heck of a trade, is going to pay that much for a Jap Honda Bike. This will be a record low in Goldwing sales for 2006, because Honda doesn't listen or know who their buyers are. Redesign its 4cyc in line automatic, cut the price to $17,900 list, and they'll sell 100,000 of them. As it is now, anyone over 5'8" tall is going to be miserable in the front seat. And I won't even go there on the problems with the bike from 2001-2005. The 1985-87 1200 Goldwings fit most Americans. A tall seat option and handlebar options that come back further would be a great short run fix. – Bert in Georgia Dear
Bert, Friday, December 30 For Denise who offered input into riding DVDs: Thanks
Denise. I think what I will do first is to finish the rest of the series
of the one that we started, although some of their info contradicts what I
learned in MSF such as Always use the front brake and not the back brake.
My husband said they said that because of racing and all of these guys
talking were racers however, when they were talking of being out on the
street they were still advocating the use of just the front brake. I’ll
see how the other DVD’s go. After these I think I will go with Riding
Like a Pro especially since it is more detailed and perhaps one that my
husband would benefit from as well. I just finished the first book on
Proficient Riding and toward the end they were talking about proper
hydration as Dr. Ian was. I found the info and the stories he
related very interesting. This author has a good sense of humor and makes
the reading enjoyable. Friday, December 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Another great site for bike adventurers, and it's free to read. two Aussie lads riding across the eastern part of the world: http://www.tokyotolondon.com/. Here is a link to the new Kawasaki ER 6N that the girls and I saw at the recent bike show. The review was very complimentry. I think some of your readers will like it. Low seat height, low weight, and (for us) very cool looking. Found this guy in the USA making rather unusaul Ducati's. Certainly low enough for most women to sit on. Certainly unique enough for gal's who like custom bikes to want to own. – Kevin in Australia Dear
Kevin, |
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