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Wednesday, February 1 Women's Rider Expo in LA May 7th Dear VTwin Mama, Womens Rider Expo Sheila Vail, Marketing Manager Wednesday, February 1 Hi VTwin Mama, Anyway, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!! WOW, 5 years! I have been checking your site out and there is a lot of good information here. Thanks for putting things in prospective for us. My question for you is about windshields and refurbishing them. Do you know of any product that will take out the scratches so that I do not have to replace it? Sherlock Dear
Sherlock, I did some research on your windshield issue, and the name Novus Plastic Polish kept coming up, so check that out! Still, if you do a search for "plastic polish" you'll find lots of sources and this leads me to believe that if you popped by your local auto parts store, you would probably find something pretty easily. Mama Wednesday, February 1 For Sharon who was looking to get "crafty" with her helmet: I hot glued charms on the back of mine. My friend has crystals on hers. There is another web site www.buyskinners.com that sells coverings for helmets. I ordered two but they were too small for the DOT helmets. He actually called me and let me keep them and is now (or has) the DOT ones being made available. They look fun 'cause you can change according to our outfits for those of us that are fashionistas at heart. Kathy (note from Mama: fun, fun, fun! Thanks for sharing the Skinners!) Wednesday, February 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Diane, Monday, February 6 Women's Riding Organization in South Central U.S. Dear VTwin Mama, Monday, February 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
LC, Monday, February 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Patty, It's not unusual to feel jitters now that you are on the road all by your lonesome, and by that I mean, no matter if you're riding with someone, you're a solo rider now! And that's just different! The fact is that you are no longer under the watchful eye of an instructor or in a "safe" zone. The key is practice, and the best place to get this is an empty parking lot (like a church lot or school parking lot, etc.). You need to go, set up practice cones (or tennis balls cut in half, or something else "squishy," and keep working on your beginning skills. The more you master the basics, the more confident you will be in venturing out onto the roads. Set up your markers to mimic traffic situations, like intersections, etc. and get your stops/starts under control. Do cone weaves and box turns until you're blue in the face and get a true sense of the bike and how it handles . . . becoming one with the beastie is an absolute must if you wish to become an accomplished rider. While you're planning out these practice sessions, plan out your first road rides. Best suggestion ever: map out a street ride in your car first, noting obstacles, potential tricky spots, and things you'll need to navigate. Keep it short and simple. Go over the route many times in the car, picturing yourself on the bike. Then choose a light traffic morning (early Sundays are good) with a destination in mind, like a restaurant for breakfast, as your reward, and go for it! Do not worry if it takes you a week or several weeks to get to the point where you're ready to venture out on your first true road ride. Set up your battle plan, gauge how you're doing and how it feels, adjust the schedule, but by all means, keep moving forward with baby steps . . . and you will get there! I TOTALLY believe in your ability to do it! As you take on more and more, don't forget that my Riding Techniques section is available to you . . . here, previous letters on additional techniques, like curves and turns, hills, etc. are posted and you can pick up hints and tips. And you'll find that YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Mama Monday, February 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Dennis, Monday, February 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, While most that popped up where in the 125cc to 250cc range, I'll note that the Suzuki Boulevard S40 showed up for $4399, 650cc, and a seat height of only 27.6" (which is pretty low). This is a nice mid-range cruiser! Otherwise, if you wanted a bigger cc engine bike that costs more than you have (if it was new), you would need to search for used ones. A good place to start would be to double check my Motorcycles for Short Riders page, where bikes are listed by mfg/model and the riders' height and any modifications they made, and yes, there are riders in the 4'10" and 4'11" range! Still, these bigger cruiser/touring bikes might still be more than you are willing to spend, but if you fall in love with a particular bigger bike, then you simply need to save more and delay your dream for a bit . . . but well worth it if there is something that catches your eye and you've just gotta have it! Mama Monday, February 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Sheilah, Monday, February 6 About sprucing up a plain helmet: Thanks for the information, and to Kathy, on how to go about sprucing up my helmet! I'm still doing research and gathering ideas, but I'm looking forward to embarking on my winter arts project. Sharon in Chicago (note from Mama: I'm still hoping for more hints and tips from readers who have decorated their own helmets!) Tuesday, February 7 More for Sharon on getting artsy with her plain helmet: I found this link a few months back for Street Glo . . . some of the decals, if you have hours and hours to pour through them, are really cute and funny. Also since they are reflective they are a good addition to loud pipes! : ) Sara (note from Mama: yup, they have the requisite flames and skulls and naked ladies, but also other inventive designs . . . I enjoyed looking through some of the pages!) Tuesday, February 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Also, need some help on gel seats. Has anyone purchased one and loved it? Kelly Dear
Kelly, Ok readers, any pant leg clues? How about input on inserting a gel seat? Mama Tuesday, February 7 For Sheilah and her view on "motor toe" scuffing: Regarding "motor toe", I like wearing that splotch on my left toe as well, but after a while, that "badge" gets out of hand. I have Harley riding boots, even though I don't ride a Harley, because they have a strap that secures my laces. And believe me these boots are NOT for walking (ouch) but fine for riding. I use black shoe polish to shine them up occasionally, and soon the scuff is back, but somewhat under control. Linda C. (note from Mama: that reminds me . . . I need to clean mine up and spray that leather waterproofing stuff on!) Tuesday, February 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Cath, Tuesday, February 7 For No Name who is 4' 10.5" and looking for a bike under $6,000: The Honda Shadow VLX (600cc) has a seat height of 25.6", is an inch lower than the Rebel, and has a MSRP of $5399. VLX stands for Vtwin, Lowered, eXtended rake. I'm just under 5'3" and my knees are bent and my feet flat. The handlebars were a bit far out for my short reach, but new handlebars fixed that. Affordably. Linda C. (note from Mama: perfect!) Tuesday, February 7 Hi Mama, thanks for the great forum you provide for motorcycle enthusiasts. This is in response to MommyDBA on the hooking up page. Waving frantically over here, over here. I too always wear full protective gear because I am important to the people that love and count on me to be there for them everyday. You sound just like me and I would love to hear from you. I can be reached at purpleponygal@yahoo.com I just recently made a move to South Carolina so I could selfishly indulge my passion and ride every day!! Am a fairly new rider, contact me if you would like, or anyone else for that matter. I love hearing from other female riders. purpleponygal (note from Mama: see, you aren't alone!) Wednesday, February 8 Like you, I too am a full cover rider. I dont go anywhere without my riding jacket, gloves, chaps, boots and helmet. It may get a little hot on those sunny days, but I prefer being protected as best I can should I take a tumble. The bottom line that every rider has to answer one question - what risk am I willing to take today? For every rider that risk is different. I hope that you find a riding buddy who accepts your view of risk as I hope youll accept theirs. Feel free to drop me a line if youd like to share sauna stories. You can reach me at stazzibassin@comcast.net Stazzi (note from Mama: thanks for letting MommyDBA know that she is part of a bigger group than she may have originally realized!) Wednesday, February 8 From Sharon who is getting artsy with her plain helmet: Thanks Sara--and to everyone else who has helped send info my way. I now have many resources to weed through for this proposed winter project. Here are some links I've found too that might be helpful to others who want to beautify their helmet: www.gersonstudios.com/helmets.htm, www.griffindesign.net/, www.airxtremeart.com Sharon (note from Mama: fun sites and it looks like you're on your way!) Wednesday, February 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Wing Rider, If you have not purchased this bike just yet, which I'm assuming is the GL1800, the best bet is to talk this over with the dealer as part of the purchase price. I did read one posting which suggested that the easiest way to gain some assistance on leg-to-ground-reach, was to have the sides of the seat modified (i.e. trimmed down so that your legs aren't thrust out so far). This can be done by any reliable upholstery shop. Otherwise, the time honored methods are a lowering kit, shorter shocks, or lower profile tires, all of which may not yet be available (as often happens with the newest model bikes and I could not find any of these solutions on the most popular aftermarket sites). Even if you have already bought the bike, I'd double check with the dealer's parts and/or service department. Another thing to check would be to see if Skull Enterprises can custom shorten that shock for you. Any Goldwingers out there reading this with more input? Mama Wednesday, February 8 For Kelly who was looking for input on gel seats: Hi, I got a gel pad for my seat for Christmas. It's called a Buttbuffer and I actually got to try it out once. I rode about 50 miles on it and think it's the best thing ever. I got the one that just gets strapped to the top of the seat. It's black with a wolf stitched on it with fringe around the edge. It looks great, and better yet it felt great riding. I ride a Sporty with a stock seat and 50 miles before the gel pad was about all I could do without a break, I didn't feel like I had ridden at all when I rode with it. Hope this helps. Linda (note from Mama: thanks for sharing this seat add-on gel solution!) Wednesday, February 8 Dear
VTwin Mama and site dwellers, I
am in Anyway,
the reason for this blurb is that just tonight I have found a bike I love!
But know nothing about hate that feeling! There is a 2006 Vento V
Thunder for sale here for $4500 which seems like a great price and looks
gorgeous. Here is the link if anyone is interested http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=46751662
. What
I want to know is, are these bikes any good? Have any of you ridden one or
know of one? Do they hold their value for resale? Any responses would be
much appreciated Thanks Dear
Jennie, Vento, which is Italian for "wind," was founded in Mexico in 1996. Parts come from Italy, China, Japan and Taiwan. In 1998 an assembly and quality control plant was opened in Laredo, Texas. Hmmmmm . . . so now my big question for you is . . . is there a local support system for parts and service? And why are they selling this bike so soon? I mean, someone put on about 1,000km (or less) and they are selling? Hmmmmm . . . Given the information you noted about beginning riders in New Zealand having to spend 9 months on a 250cc bike or smaller, I highly doubt you would lose any money on this bike, depending on how much mileage you piled on in the next 9 months (there's a stream of new riders coming through who will be interested in a purchase when you are ready to move up in size). There have been previous postings that smaller bike engines manufactured in China and Mexico don't hold up over time. What warranty would this bike come with . . . it should be all-inclusive, and again, who would actually uphold the warranty . . . a local dealership? So, I'd be asking a lot of questions and seeing how the seller responds. Mama Thursday, February 9 From Jennie who was considering a Vento bike to get started on: Thanks for your homework re: the V
Thunder by Vento. It is dearer here because of the exchange rate, but not
as dear as it should be, so something doesnt add up. So, in the meantime
I have found and bought my dream bike (for the 250cc class). I am about to
pick up a yellow 1998 Honda Rebel which is very, very cute! I will be
riding it home on Saturday which will be a bit nerve wracking as its about
100 miles or so away. My partner will be on his bike with me so it should
be fine fingers crossed X. Thursday, February 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Linda, Thursday, February 9 More for Jody who got a new windshield and is considering cutting it down: I had mine cut down for my Deluxe . . . I am short so the regular sized one for me was just too large and bulky for me to be comfortable with. However, I had to pay $100. Not cheap considering the windshields are expensive. This person came highly recommended by Harley so I went there. He actually made the shape better for the bike and for me -- a little wider and not so tall. Nice look and the wind is cut out. Its works out well and I love it. He actually gave it a better finished edge that it had originally. If you go, just make sure the person is HIGHLY recommended or it can cost you more in the long run. Kathy H. (note from Mama: while more expensive than we had previously heard, it sounds like you got your money's worth in overall functionality!) Thursday, February 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, "I own a V3. It is manufactured by CFMOTO. One importer brands them as "Baron" but that is just a U.S. name to give some local appeal, I think. CFMOTO is a high-quality Chinese manufacturing company primarily noted for their line of small water-cooled engines. The company manufactures several high-quality scooters in addition to the V3 and V5 motorcycles. The V3 is a very nice performing 250cc CVT machine. Extremely smooth and quiet throughout the entire speed range. Performance is brisk for a 250cc machine, with acceleration comparable to my Majesty 400. Comes with a Gold-Wing style audio panel that will play tapes, AM/FM, and MP3. Fit and finish are far above what one would normally associate with a Chinese import. Having a low seat height and automatic transmission should appeal to many new riders. At the MSF school where I teach, we continually have requests for information by new riders searching for this type of machine. It definitely fills a niche that no one else is addressing at this time, except for Ridley, however their prices begin at about $16K. Unlike most Chinese imports, the operator's manual is written in clear, easy to understand English, with very complete information on use of features and routine maintenance. The only thing lacking is information on the use of the alarm system. Although it works very well, you are left to figure out the key presses to arm/unarm and use of the remote accessory operation. Not hard to figure out, but it would have been nice to have a detailed explanation of the various options. Only 3 complaints so far: 1. The clock should be LCD instead of LED to be able to read in direct sunlight. 2. Should have resettable odometer, and 3. Centerstand is a plus for maintenance, but it is VERY difficult for one person to put the bike on the centerstand due to a very short footl ever tang." MSF RiderCoach in Ft Myers, FL Here are some links to places to buy with "about parts and warranty". Good to know things! SunRight Mak Dear
Mak, Thursday, February 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, You're probably familiar with this, but I thought I'd pass it on anyway. We just finished watching Long Way Round, a travelogue documenting Ewan McGregor and his friend motorcycling nearly around the world. If you haven't seen it, it's amazing. The riding nightmares they faced and overcame will encourage any new rider to keep on. Good advertisement for BMW bikes too! I've enjoyed Ewan as an actor, but he gained my respect in this, that's for sure. We've been nervous about getting good enough to ride to Athens, GA for the convention in June . . . after seeing their journey, ours will be a piece of cake! Take care, Kat Dear
Kat, Friday, February 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have mounted the bike on several occasions, but as soon as I'm on I feel vulnerable to the surrounding traffic and get an almighty sick feeling in my gut that I have to get straight back off. Today I spent two hours next to the bike while my boyfriend tried to coax me on. Didn't work. Now I feel like a plum. I want to get on so bad, but just cannot. Do you have any tips for how I can overcome this? I think my main problems are that so many people have given me advise on what to/not do when on the back that I'm just plain confused. Some people have advised me to use the grab rail at the back, I don't feel comfortable doing this as I'm quite small, some people have advised me to touch the tank under braking, this is impossible as I can't reach the tank. My partner says just hold on to his hips.. Can you see my confusion? I guess the other biggy is being so vulnerable to other road users and fearing that I may cause my partner to crash the bike. Please help me, I want more than anything to get on the back and go ride . . . Carrie in Derbyshire, UK Dear
Carrie, Now, on to advice despite the fact that you've gotten a snoot full already! You mentioned the horror of traffic as one source of concern (vulnerability) and my immediate thought is this: how about if you drive your car and your boyfriend rides the bike far enough out into a "country" setting, even if it means going 60km . . . whatever it takes. An early Sunday morning would probably be the least amount of traffic time. Choose a meeting place that has a big open, flat paved area. Here, you could get on the bike together, ride around the lot for awhile undisturbed, then venture out a bit. If necessary, get in the car and preplan the whole meeting place, country road route, and reward (maybe a cute little store or restaurant you've been meaning to go to!). Preplanning is a time-honored tradition that many new solo riders use to minimize the jitters, so I'm thinking you would benefit from it as well. As a pillion rider, your main job is this: don't wiggle around on the seat, don't turn your head and shoulders that would move your entire body position, and don't lean "extra" into curves . . . just keep a nice, straight-forward profile. Talk it out with your boyfriend . . . communication is the key! While you're doodling around in the parking lot with no distractions, decide for yourself where you feel most comfortable securing yourself, whether that's hands on hips, etc. As the two of you venture out, keeping the speed down at first (talk that out as well!), double check your feelings on your hand grip. You mentioned that you are concerned that you could cause a crash. Ok, let's drill down a little deeper. It's a silly-type analogy, but you've read about people getting hurt or killed while crossing a street, yet that doesn't keep you from crossing a street, does it? That's something you've been doing for a long time, and you know that the chances of it happening to you are minimal. Now, the bike. You lost riding friends, so are you worried that something you do on the back of the bike is going to cause a crash, or are your worries more general . . . my friends died, will that happen to me and/or my boyfriend (together or him riding alone)? My best advice is to find a quiet time, take out a pen and piece of paper, and jot down every feeling that comes to mind without censorship. Every good thing, every bad thing you feel about motorcycles and riding. Get it out. Commit it to paper. Don't worry about the order in which you write it down, just let it stream out of your gut. Trust me on this, you won't believe the difference it makes. Share it with your boyfriend if you wish. In all of this, remember that not everyone is meant to ride on a bike . . . and life events shape how we perceive things . . . so even if you give it your best shot, and you can't get past the jitters, then say so and make peace with it. I know how much you want to share this with your boyfriend, but my guess is that there are other things you can do together . . . how fun it would be to find a new adventure that the two of you can learn and experience together. Now, as I know you really want to give riding your best try, go write down the baby steps you think make the most sense for you . . . hopefully I've given you some ideas to help shape the "plan." My deepest hope is that you'll soon be sending me a picture of the two of you and the bike, with a huge grin on both of your faces! No matter what happens, YOU ARE NOT ALONE in your feelings, and if I've learned anything, it's that honesty with oneself is the most important thing in life. It will carry you to the places you were meant to travel. Mama Friday, February 10 For No Name who is 4' 10.5" and looking for a bike under $6,000: I am a male, 68,125 lbs., 4' 10" tall. I have a 1999 Honda VLX (600cc) Deluxe. $3400 in 2004. I installed a lowering kit from scootworks and set the monoshock at its lowest position, and rides smooth with my light weight. Removed side covers and made new ones out of leather, removed and made a narrower and lower seat. Seat height is 23.5" I also installed Honda's standard pullback risers. This bike is impressive and keeps up with the big boys. JB (note from Mama: so that's the second nod to the VLX . .. I'm convinced!) Friday, February 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, To motorcycle accident survivors: I kind of understand how you feel about getting back on the motorcycle. I had an accident while doing my time trials for the women's Olympic ski team. I hit ice and hit a tree. I shattered my wrists, both knees, both hips and back and was told that I was lucky to be alive let alone walk again. Needless to say, my Olympic dreams were dashed and my spirit along with it. I would watch my friends ski their race everyday and my heart ached to be out there but at the same time I was alive. It took me some time and sole searching but I finally got on the skis again and again am racing. Only your heart knows if and when you are ready. God Bless and take care. ninjababe Dear
ninjababe, Monday, February 13 Survey for a Research Paper . . . Get Involved! Hello
Ladies! The beginning questions are from the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) survey that was conducted among their female members. This survey was done previous to 2001 and I would like to see if the results will be the same in 2006, this survey will be much smaller than the AMA survey but I think I will be able to see if there is a change in trends. The ending questions are some that I generated to determine specific experiences of female operators. The questions that have choices for response are only guidelines in most cases; feel free to put whatever applies to you which may be different than choices given. What to Do: Please email your survey to me (cut and paste questions to word doc, answer and attach to email, send to Mgunn810@aol.com with WMS in subject line). Deadline: I need to have the answers to the survey by February 20, 2006 in order to include the responses in the report. I would like to thank all of you that participate in this survey, you are all awesome and I sincerely appreciate your taking the time to help me out! 1. How old are you? 2. What is your marital status? Married, Single, Relationship, Divorced, Widowed 3. What is your employment status? Full Time, Part Time, Unemployed, Student 4. What is the highest level of education you have achieved? H.S., Some college, Associates, Bachelors, Masters, Etc. 5. How long have you been riding a motorcycle (both as passenger and operator)? 6. How long have you been operating a motorcycle? 7. How many motorcycles have you owned? 8. What was the most influential factor in your motorcycle purchase(s): Spouse/boyfriend, Family member, Friend (male or female), Dealer, Word of mouth, Magazine Advertisement, Television/ Radio Ad? 9. What kind of motorcycle do you currently operate (if more than one, please list all)? 10. Do you know other females that are operators? How many? 11. How many miles did you ride in 2005? 12. Were you a passenger before becoming an operator? 13. If yes, who did you ride with: father, mother, brother, sister, boyfriend, husband, male friend, or female friend? (Please list all that apply) 14. Before becoming an operator, was there a motorcycle at your residence owned by someone else? 15. How did you learn to operate a motorcycle: family member, friend(s), self-taught, MSF course? 16. What is the gender of your riding companions: women & men, all women, all men? 17. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement Things are changing in motorcycling today. It really doesnt matter whether youre a man or woman rider. Everybody can have a good time motorcycling. Totally agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree, totally disagree? 18. Have you ever experienced prejudice or discrimination as a woman motorcycle operator? 19. Was the prejudice or discrimination delivered as an action or comment or both? 20. Approximately how many times have you experienced an action or comment that was prejudicial or discriminatory toward you as a woman motorcycle operator? ________Action ________Comment 21. Who delivered the prejudicial or discriminatory action or comment? Male, Female, Male & Female 22. Do you consider yourself a biker or riding enthusiast? 23. Do you ride with a club? 24. Do you attend motorcycle rallies, ride in poker runs or other motorcyclist functions? 25. Why do you ride a motorcycle? Melissa Gunn Monday, February 13 For Carrie, a pillion rider, who is struggling with massive jitters: My heart goes out to Carrie. Way before I had jitters
about riding my bike, I had jitters about getting on the back with my
husband. I was reluctant to go with him, but I sure didn't want to be left
behind at home. He brought his first bike home in the winter, so I had
plenty of time to stew about it. I had trouble sleeping. Every time I
closed my eyes, I could see us slamming into the back of a car on the
freeway and then someone slamming into us from behind. Pretty graphic,
huh? Surely some of this stemmed from an accident that I was in when I was
16. It was a minor accident, followed by a family squabble, lots of
misplaced guilt, and a moratorium on motorcycles. I got on the back of a
bike a couple times after that, but not much. On the other hand, sometimes uncontrollable fear could
be trying to tell you something. Could it be the way your boyfriend rides
that helps perpetuate your fears? Monday, February 13 For No Name who is 4' 10.5" and looking for a bike under $6,000: I am 4'10" tall and always thought it was out of the question for me to ride my own bike, but after reading the posts on this website and with the encouragement of my hubby, I took the MSF class and learned to ride at the age of 56. I just bought a Yamaha VStar 650 and had it lowered. Although it is a bit larger than the 125 that I rode in the MSF course, after 3 months riding "my" bike, I am now used to it and I am sure that it is the perfect bike for me. It is well balanced, so it doesn't seem heavy at all, looks really cool (my friends say it looks like a Harley Softail). And, most importantly, it has enough power to ride on the highway and I won't be wanting another bike for a while. Check out the Yamaha VStar 650. The new ones are $6000 but you can get a used bike for less. Linda in Oklahoma (note from Mama: congrats on the new bike that is proving to be the right pathway for you! Yummy!) Monday, February 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, On occasion I've read emails from readers looking for cool biker jewelry. Just wanted to share a site with you. I went to the International Motorcycle Show in Rosemont, IL today and came across this guy's booth. www.celticcraft.net The link for tribal pendants shows a lady biker. There are a few different styles under this heading. He said he can make them in gold too - just email him: jkd782@aol.com. Thanks for such a great site! Jennifer in Wisconsin Dear
Jennifer, Monday, February 13 More for Kelly who was looking for input on gel seats: Gel seat - never did an insert but did do the kind that rides on top of current seat, has two elastic bands that slip under the seat to keep it on (plus the underside is a rubbery material). I really like it, for those days when my hip acts up, gives it a little more cushion. I gave my old one to an older friend of ours, and he absolutely loves it. I will caution you that most of the gel pads for the seats will raise your seat height up about an inch, so for those of us vertically challenged, it may be a slight problem. Claire (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Monday, February 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, Has anyone had to deal with husband prejudice - meaning he is pro-Harley and anti-Honda? My husband has shoved and whined to get me to buy a 883 Sportster which just did not fit me. Any ideas how I can get him to be less snobbish? He acts like his Harley is going to catch something. Sue Dear
Sue, Would he ride a bike that didn't fit him or meet his needs? NO. Would he be happy if someone important in his life kept whining about that choice? NO. Would he let other people's opinion supercede his own well thought out decision? NO. Does he want his riding partner to be "one" with her beastie? YES. Does he consider your overall riding safety important? YES. Does he understand that you a thinking human being who has not only learned to ride, but is now able to share the joy of the journey, and determine for herself the best pathway for herself. HE BETTER FIGURE THAT ONE OUT FAST! The next time it comes up, I'd go for a "hey honey, whatever, when's our next ride?!" Mama Monday, February 13 For Kelly whose boyfriend was looking to anchor the bottom of pant legs: Jimi Clips - those look pretty cool and reasonably priced - I've been using hair ties over my pant legs. Not cool but they do the job especially when I am wearing work pants (not jeans) which have a wider leg than jeans. Claire (note from Mama: quick and simple!) There's a product called 'Yo Mama cruiser clips. I bought a couple of pairs, and they work great for keeping the pant legs in place! I bought them from Cruiser Customizing. Hope that helps. Kat (note from Mama: this exactly what I think Kelly had in mind!) Tuesday, February 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, She came off the bike and rolled into the downhill lane. A guy in a late model sedan (who I believe must have ABS brakes and the reflexes of a cat) braked to a stop with his tire less that a foot from her neck. Cars behind her slewed all over the road to avoid her and the fallen bike. How no one ran her over I don't know! People jumped from cars and risked their lives to get her off the road. She was off road by the time I got turned around and parked up. She had on Draggin Jeans, an armoured synthetic jacket with padding in elbows, shoulders and most of the back. Scraped knees, a bruised shoulder, a scraped wrist and elbow. Very minor scrapes, probably just the material moving over her skin. The helmet is wasted, a $100 dollar full face, right hand side and middle of visor scraped more than a millimeter deep. Had it been an open face, she would have no face left. She was incredibly lucky. Major damage to the bike, I'll have to scrap the fairing and re-build it as a naked bike now. Some blame should also be on the woman driver of the car she bumped into, Lin had L plates displayed at rear of bike, woman was all the way over in the edge of her own lane, overtaking an L plater on a tight corner. Stupid. I had to drive 300 klicks today to go back and pick bike up with a ute. So Lin is shaken and stirred, but ok. Determined to get on bike again. I am booking in her for advanced riding at a track school first. She is just not consistent on corners at all. She needs a proper track, no cars, where she can learn what not to do on tight corners under instruction from a professional. I have been instructing her for over a month now, it's just not sinking in. I can't take the chance she will screw up again on the road. She is alive because one guy knew how to brake properly, that's it right there. She should be dead. Watching it in the rear vision mirror was not a good day out I can tell you! Terri and I think she looked too long at the white line dividing her lane from the next, and as you know, where you look is where the bike tends to go. Few riders will ever survive an accident like this. She had cars right behind her when she came off. I can't get the images out of my head. I read the story about the gal who is scared to get on her boyfriends GPZ 900. I really think some people should just not be pillions if they are that scared. She is only doing it to please him. I took a guy for a short ride round the block ride a year ago, his first time, his teeth were chattering, his whole body was shaking, he was petrified. I'll never take him on my bike again. Something you might want to mention to all the readers . . . if you or they ever get a strange feeling that today just "feels" like a day not to go for a ride . . . then don't. I have had this feeling several times, and always heeded it. One time I ignored it and rode out and felt very uncomfortable for about 15 minutes, the feeling got worse and worse. I turned around and went home, the feeling of relief when I parked up in the garage was incredible. Cannot explain it. Next day I was fine and rode all day. I have only had those feelings a dozen or so times in 25 years of continual riding. Listen to that inner voice is my opinion. So, Lin is home safe and sound, her bike is in my garage, awaiting some TLC later in the week. I won't be repairing or replacing the full fairing, too expensive and no point, it will go just as well without the full bodywork. Gives me a Streetfighter project for a month or so. Oh yes . . . LOL . . . the front fender came loose on the way to the mountains and I had to tear it off with my hands after it got stuck between wheel and engine. I think it WANTS to be a "naked" bike. Kevin in Australia Dear
Kevin, Once again we read an account where the type of riding gear selected made all the difference . . . thanks for sharing the specifics . . . it's good food for thought. I'm heartened to hear that Lin won't be giving up, but will eventually get back on the bike and continue working on her skills It's going to be a tough road, as many riders who experienced an accident can attest to . . . that's why I have an Accident Survivor section on my site . . . a chance to share and know that they are not alone. I too looked down at a white line, mine at over 70mph on a very tight country "S" curve road (and that was with about 12 years of riding time) . . . I was simply going too fast for my skill level and was lucky enough to fly off into a farmer's field with soft dirt. I pulled muscles, damaged the bike, and it took me 6 months to get back on. I'm pointing this out as I know how much you wish to assist Lin in getting back to riding. Just make sure SHE is telling you how SHE wishes to proceed. In part, her confidence is best rebuilt by mapping out baby steps that meet HER specific needs, and she'll need time to noodle that out. I know that my friends, who told me after I started riding again, feared I would never get back on a bike. For me, I needed a time factor. Each accident survivor is different and she needs to define that, just I did. I'm also glad you added your thoughts on "a bad riding day" feeling. This goes a long way to let other riders know that's it ok to acknowledge them, no matter how many miles or year they have under their wheels. Mama Tuesday, February 14 More for Kelly whose boyfriend was looking to anchor the bottom of pant legs: Though not exactly what she asked for, they may not know this option exists: The Desert Dawgs do a good job of keeping that updraft off legs and feet - not to mention staying dry. AND, they are easy to take on and off - and they look good! Tracey (note from Mama: ah yes, the wind barriers that get attached to highway/engine guard bars . . . another solution to consider!) Tuesday, February 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Linda, So, my own pillion riding was so long ago (1974 - 1978) and then I went solo in 1979 and haven't looked back. I really wasn't "into" riding during my pillion days, so it was just a thing to do because my boyfriend had a bike. Of course I've had a nose-full of attitude being a solo rider (geez), but readers, let's concentrate responses on solo riders who do pillion time on occasion and have thoughts on the change-over experience! Mama Tuesday, February 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, I got my '88 Suzuki Savage about 2 yrs ago and put about 600 miles on it. I felt I was ready to move up and came home with a beautiful '99 HD Hugger. I have rode it in the driveway a few times so far (just got it last weekend). It is a bit intimidating, I have had some experience with an old Sportster ironhead (but not very good ). I do love this bike, it fits me well. I am 5'2" and 120 lbs. I just have to work on believing I can ride it and I know I can. Thanks again for all the encouragement on this site. It gives us all hope. Lisa Dear
Lisa, Congrats on the newest bike and glad to hear that you're already feeling the "fit" . . . now it's a matter of becoming one with the beastie. And you know what that means . . . practice! Each bike handles differently in starts, stops, tight turns, curves, etc. When I got my latest bike last June, I put myself through the paces in an empty parking lot with course markers and practiced friction zone control, cone weaves and box turns. And of course I worked on my high speed straights and curves carefully, testing out the countersteering response level, back brake feathering, brake combinations, and quick down shifting capabilities . . . all to see how this bike handled. You know you can do it and the collective sisters who read this site know you can do it! Just remember, it's fun to learn and learning is always a good thing! Mama Tuesday, February 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
ninjababe, Wednesday, February 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Sharon, I looked at this link, and there are a number of links to the video posted, but I found the first one to be a fast download (at least, on a DSL connection). It's not exactly clear in the audio portion why the cage driver swerved so violently into the pathway of Dawn, but the postings below her posting begins the discussion. Although there was nothing humorous about the accident, it took a few seconds for the people helping Dawn realize she was a woman rider, not a man. Despite our best efforts to be the best and safest riders we can be, the fact is that we're sharing the road as part of the riding experience. Let's use this as a reminder that we need to ride with our eyes and ears open at all times, and even though we can't control every action around us, we can do our very best to minimize the possibilities. Mama Wednesday, February 15 Hi
VTwin Mama, Dear
Suzie, Wednesday, February 15 More for Kelly whose boyfriend was looking to anchor the bottom of pant legs: This is what I use -- and have good luck with them: Faδrken Biker Stirrups. LJH in Texas (note from Mama: very stylish!) Wednesday, February 15 More for TTFN Nancy who wrote in about her trike conversion happiness: Hello, saw the post from Nancy and Gila who wrote about lovin' the Voyager trike kit for motorcycles. Well, I have had two InstaTrike kits, even though my best friend had a Voyager, and as to the ride, it's no comparison. InstaTrike has no sway, wheel doesn't come up, etc. and more than $1000 less. I even found out that the gentleman who patented the Voyager kit, sold it and then brought out InstaTrike, which now, by the way, has large chrome wheels, which is why my Harley friend first went with Voyager, since InstaTrike at that time had smaller wheels. I found out first about InstaTrike from tbe GWRRA site, seems Goldwing riders really knew difference in Voyager kits vs. InstaTrike. A friend from MO tipped me off to your site and said you had information on InstaTrike here, but didn't find it, but did see couple of Voyager letters. I am sure your readers will find this helpful, as I did, as I think it's all a trike can do and more, for under $4000. I now have a Suzuki Boulevard with InstaTrike and a friend just had his 2000 Dynaglide convertible done also. You are doing some good work on your site. Ed (note from Mama: we've had input on both kits and I'm glad you shared your information, as it's sure to help many others who are looking into a trike conversion. It looks like you landed on my Trike 2006 page, but there are actually 5 years of posted letters on trikes, with the "year" links in the left hand column.) Wednesday, February 15 Hi Petra (yup, that's VTwin Mama's given name!), Some humorous observations here on folks who ride Scooters (Vespa type thingy's): Traffic congestion in Sydney is now at the stage where many people who never thought of taking two wheels to work are doing so. We've always had a few people riding scooters around the city but in the last few months I have started to see so many more. Lots of different brands now, there's even a scooter magazine out on the stands. Shalako Lin and I saw a girl on a modern Vespa yesterday, riding in the middle lane, traffic buzzing past all around her. Dressed in a white open face with a shield, a pink blouse, black silk slacks and high heeled stilettos. Looked sexy, but odd. A month or so ago I saw a guy and gal two up on a scooter, t-shirts and shorts . . . and barefoot, as in no shoes at all. In summer here the tarmac is too hot to stand on barefooted, I assumed they were just so much tougher than me . . . hell made me embarrassed to ride around in my Caterpillar boots. We have been discussing this phenomenon and I think I've hit on the truth. I see so many blokes and sheilas riding scooters in skimpy clothing that I finally realized that when you buy one you must get a Force Field or a magical cloak (invisible of course) of protection. Has to be the answer doesn't it? I don't think I've ever seen a scooter rider dressed in leather or a full synthetic riding suit. On really hot days, if I'm just riding around the local suburb, I've been guilty of wearing shorts and t-shirt myself, always have summer gloves and a helmet however. But I see these scooter riders riding many miles to work dressed in their thin work clothes or surf wear. I've seen girls in mini skirts and low cut tank tops. Even the ads in magazines show them dressed like this, must be de rigueur for scooter folks I guess? Now, do these scooters come with a free Force Field or do you have to pay extra? Are there different kinds of shields available? Like a low speed impact Field and a high speed impact one? Do they come in different colors apart from invisible? I'll have to look into this as I'm sure we can all benefit here. Hell, we can forget about leathers and helmets altogether. We can just go to our local motorcycle/scooter shop and say, " Hi, I'd like the new Startrektech Mark 3 Force Field please, the one for bikes over 1000cc, better make it the high speed impact one, with guaranteed all around cover up to 200 mph. You have one in stock, great, I'll take it, thanks!" Yes sir, scooter riders have certainly shown me the future of bike protection. A mate said to me the other day, " I saw a guy on a Hayabusa blasting between the traffic at high speed yesterday, he was only wearing a singlet and shorts and open sandals, can you believe?" "Nah," I replied. "He was perfectly safe, mate. He must have a scooter in his garage and he just transferred the invisible Force Field from the scoot to the ' Busa." I mean it's obvious right? Kevin in Australia Dear
Kevin, |
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