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Friday, February 1 Some random things I learned about at the Cycle World show in Atlanta that may be of interest: Female Sport Biker Weekend: June 27-29 in Atlanta MLK Memorial Million Motorcyclists Motorcade March: August 29 - September 1 in La Plata, MD Discover Today's Motorcycling: Ten-Step Guide to Motorcycling: an information PDF (Adobe Acrobat) brochure for those thinking about getting started in the journey/adventure. – Mama Hi Petra, I also wanted to comment on the recent open invitation that was sent to you from Karen Huss, Marketing Director for Harley Davidson Sales and Service in Napoleon, Oh. I have met Karen on my last two visits to Women Ride II and Women Ride III. My sister and I have gone the past two years and are planning on going this year. Karen is a very personable young lady and is a very talented organizer. As a matter of fact the folks at the dealership are equally devoted in making this a great event. This is truly on open event. It does not matter if you ride a Harley or any other type of bike, it is just that you’re a lady and you ride. We are made to feel very welcome at this event. I would urge anyone in the Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Michigan area to come join the fun. We made our hotel reservation last year at the event just to make sure we had a room. Maybe we will meet some of our VTwin Mama sisters at Women Ride IV, on May 3rd and 4th. Sincerely, – Marlene Dear Marlene, Thanks for your expanded thoughts on participating in Women Ride IV ... more information links about this event and other women-specific events can be found on my Women's Motorcycle Events page! – Mama Monday, February 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Blooze, Monday, February 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Adam, You might also try visiting the Magna Owners of Texas site, which has tons of tips and tricks and someone there might be able to help! – Mama Monday, February 4 For Drea who is wondering about cc size on her first bike choice: I agree [with Mama] that a 250 can feel pretty big when you are first getting started. I am 5 feet tall, and I loved my 250 Rebel as a starter bike. Plus, there is always a great market when you are ready to sell and get something bigger. I ride a Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic now and it is plenty of bike for now. Always better to have too little than too much while you are learning! Good luck and welcome to the group! – Anon (note from Mama: yes, losing confidence on something too big can be a real deal breaker, i.e. giving up too early in the adventure ... something smaller may have to be sold quickly, but it's better than the mental anguish of confidence-busting problems IMHO.) Tuesday, February 5 Calling all Women Harley/Buell Riders Going to Daytona Dear VTwin Mama, Harley-Davidson
Daytona Women’s Day Ride Increases Count to 500 MILWAUKEE (February 1, 2008) – On March
4, 2008, in Daytona, Fla., 500 Harley-Davidson women riders will join
together in what the Motor Company believes will be the largest women’s
ride in the Company’s 105-year history. Originally, the Harley-Davidson
Women’s Day Ride, benefiting Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), was
to be limited to 105 women; but after an incredible response from women
riders asking to join the ride, Harley-Davidson decided to increase the
size to accommodate 500 women. The riders will join Karen Davidson,
great-granddaughter of one of the Company’s founders, as well as the six
Get Down to Daytona contest
winners on the last leg of their ride into Daytona. The ride will conclude
at the Women participating in the ride are
encouraged to raise money for their local MDA chapter to help send
children to MDA Summer Camps, and the top three fundraisers will receive a
Harley-Davidson leather jacket. One week at MDA Summer Camp costs $800 per
child, so women who raise that amount or more will receive a unique
Harley-Davidson/MDA sterling silver and gold charm in recognition of their
gold-level fundraising. Women who raise at least $400 will receive a
sterling silver charm. All 500 riders will receive a 2008 MDA
Pin, a special Harley-Davidson/MDA flag and will be entered in a special
MDA drawing for a women’s Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary
leather jacket. Anyone can make a general contribution to the ride at https://secure.mdausa.org/harleywomensride/. For more information about the Get Down to Daytona contest, newly posted profiles of the six winners, details on the women’s activities in Daytona, and more, visit www.harley-davidson.com/womensride. Note From Mama: if you want to join in and need the form, please email me at vtwinmama@vtwinmama.com and I'll email that to you! Tuesday, February 5 Ride Across Maryland, May 31-June 2 Dear VTwin Mama, This year to date, RAM has donated almost $1.2 Million to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The event is a two day fun filled event taking place in Ocean City, MD. Participants will be able to partake in a live entertainment, music, activities, games and of course the check announcement. Participants must raise a minimum of $100 each to participate. To find out more information, please contact us at info@rideacrossmaryland.org or we can be reached in the office at 410-992-9999. – Diana Mitchell, Ride Coordinator Wednesday, February 6 Dear Readers, Many of you are familiar with the Breast Cancer Site, which allows you to click daily in order to give free mammograms to women who otherwise can't afford this screening. It's rare when I stray away from anything that doesn't include motorcycle riding, but a friend recently sent me an interesting site that generates the money to send rice to nations in need. The site Free Rice combines a vocabulary game (of great interest to me as a writer!) with the donations, and I have a hoot with it ... I find it more fun than playing Solataire when I need a break! Just in case it's of interest to you! – Mama Thursday, February 7 Hi Petra, I have a lot of catching up to do at the VTwin Mama site, but the format looks great. I have referred many of my students to your website, but in PR not everybody is fluent in English, what a shame, they have English as a second language since first grade!! I was wondering if you could add the reference to my website under Directories: Outside U.S. My page is www.endosruedaspr.com. I would really appreciate it !! I upgraded from a Rebel 250 to a Suzuki 650. It's still a small bike, like the Rebel, but it has the right amount of power that I was lacking!! All is well here, my school was finally certified by MSF, so soon we will be teaching the Basic Rider's Course. That has been the greatest achievement for my team of certified instructors. I am only an instrument that helped to make it all happen.
Thanks again for your wonderful and helpful page, your support to women bikers and to safe motorcycling in general. We are having lots of motorcycle accidents in PR, but then again, it is proportionate to the increase in sales of motorcycles in the last year, which has skyrocketed. Lots of hugs and warm wishes, remember you have a friend here in PR... bring your bike and your boyfriend.. in fact, don't even bring the bike, you can rent one here!! Regards, – Maria Hernandez Dear Maria, I am sooooo proud of you Maria! You took your beginning riding experience, worked through the challenges, helped form a certified MSF school, and upgraded to a mid-size motorcycle for yourself. WOW! So, I have given your site a listing on my Directories: Useful Sites: Outside of the U.S. page, but also as a special mention on my Get Started: National MSF listing page because those more comfortable in the Spanish language will be able to find useful information! Keep up the good work! If any reader finds themselves planning a riding trip in Puerto Rico, please don't hesitate to contact me so I can put you in touch with Maria ... she would love to share the experience of riding in her beautiful country! – Mama Thursday, February 7 Dear VTwin Mama, In a left hand curve, I did not straighten up before braking, and I highsided, luckily only going about 25mph at the time. I was very lucky to have only minor injuries (great gear saved me!), and my HD Heritage Softail Classic was ridable, needing only cosmetic repairs. I did get on the bike after repairing it recently, for a twirl around the neighborhood. I loved it...and didn't realize how much I have missed riding! The problem is my husband. He got spooked so much at hearing me crash behind him, that he does not want me to ride anymore. Truth be told, I also am not so sure myself, but I have to at least try. How can I convince him to give me a chance? I am waiting for drier weather before I get on my Harley again, but I have to try riding down the road. We are interested in getting a sidecar for his Harley ElectraGlide, but I have to convince him to give me a chance on my own first. Do you have any ideas? – Margie, aka Crash ; ) Dear Margie, To ride a motorcycle one has to assume a certain risk factor. Animals bounding out of forests is just one of them, but the surprise/panic of it all really does challenge the rider to use all the best combinations of riding techniques to minimize injury, and it has to be done in a split second. You yourself, in this letter, acknowledge that practice in this specific area would serve you well. And therein lies your next step. Most of us rarely need this fast stop technique practice, but it should be in our "arsenal" of learning the handling characteristics of our bikes and being at the ready to use it. There is no doubt that outside of ourselves having an accident, the next people who are most affected are those who are riding with us at the time. Whether it unfolds in front or behind us, the helpless feeling it sets up really does bring out concerns in a way that can be quite powerful. For instance, had the accident with the deer occurred while you were driving a car, you wouldn't most likely give up driving. This is mostly because the cage is more protective, but it also constitutes a major form of transportation that we need on a daily basis. So, is riding a motorcycle any different? One could argue that it is an optional form of transportation, but to most of us, motorcycling is an expression of freedom and joy, and that in itself, is not optional. Who wants to go through life not enjoying themselves?! My main suggestion at this juncture is to enroll in the MSF's Experienced RiderCourse. You will note on this page that they specifically call out that part of the training is managing risk and to "practice the techniques of managing traction, stopping quickly, cornering and swerving." I have heard varying opinions about this course, depending on where it was taken ... my advice is to call the local course provider and indicate you had a deer accident and are interested in learning improved techniques ... listen to what they have to say and how they describe their training. Take the course together with your hubby dearest so that you can form a team between the two of you, a team that is open to discussing and practicing the techniques together over time. That's right, take the course, but then every few months, set up cones in an empty parking lot and run through the drills again. It will sharpen both your abilities and allow for constructive critique that will build a good bond, a bond between riders, not just husband and wife. In this way, you are demonstrating to your husband that you are acknowledging not only his fears and concerns, but that you wish to sharpen skills for future use and address your feelings about continuing to ride solo. In my 28 years of riding, there isn't a ride that I take where I don't think about my handling techniques, and do impromptu little drills along the way or in a parking lot. So don't think that you are alone or that 5 years of riding couldn't use some polish ... to ride is to engage in a lifetime of learning/practice that will always serve you well and make you the best rider you can be! Now, make that call, sign up for the course, and move forward. Then you'll have a new perspective in which to make long term decisions that are best for you. To hear other accident survivors voices, please visit my Riding Techniques: Accident Survivors page ... you will quickly learn that your concerns are very much in line with other riders and some of the suggestions about continuing the journey. – Mama For Margie who had an accident and is wondering about riding solo again or maybe going to a sidecar: Margie, so glad you didn't get badly hurt in your accident. I have to comment on one thing in your letter: Think twice about that side car! Friends of ours added one to his bike because she had recently been through surgery and thought it would be more comfortable than sitting on the back. Well, she was comfortable alright, but he thoroughly hated riding with the side car attached. He said his arms were killing him by the end of the day because of the added weight and difference in taking turns (no leaning!). He said it was worse than a trike that he had tried. He also felt he was a hazard on the road because he took up so much room - there was no escape route from one side of the lane to the other. If there was a pothole in the road, chances are he or the side car would hit it 'cause he couldn't counter-steer around it. As soon as she was able, they got rid of the side car and she started riding pillion again. (BTW, she's now looking for her own bike and wants to take lessons!) He's looking to sell his side car, but I wouldn't recommend it for anyone! – Rose (note from Mama: thanks for addressing the sidecar thought, which I really didn't do. You bring up a number of good points that this couple should talk about!) Monday, February 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Dallas Girl, Certainly if one types in "donating a motorcycle to charity" in a search engine, any number of sites will come up, but I don't know of any specific motorcycle non-profit organizations that could use the bike to help raise funds. Readers who have experience or ideas, please chime in now! – Mama Tuesday, February 12 For El who is considering a bike but those darn pedals are too far from the footpegs: I sorry to here that you're under the weather!! Just keep your spirits up! and think positive! Spring is coming. I'm a shorty too coming in at 5'1". Last year I bought a Suzuki Marauder 800 ... big mistake. It was to high and very uncomfortable to drive so I didn't drive it. I did a lot of studying and read different reviews on different motorcycles, and I came up with a perfect shorty bike, (Ready) it's a Honda Shadow VLX 600 cc ... ideal. I had the good fortune of finding a guy on Kijiji [free local classified ads], who had the bike and wanted a bigger one, both bikes were equal in valve and the same year. So we just traded square. I got the better deal. It's got forward controls and a seat height of 25.6" It's perfect for me, and I just love that it weights in at 446 pounds. Has steer bars, slim tank, great seat, it's a great little bike for someone who is short, So if you can try one of these out first before you buy, I think you'd like it even more, Good Luck And I hope everything goes well for ya!! – Anonymous (note from Mama: thanks for sharing what you found to really for your height ... sounds like the deal was just awesome, and of course it is, 'cause you're still riding!) Tuesday, February 12 Hi VTwin Mama, Dear Anon, Next I would look at riding boots ... a good pair will already have a nice thick sole (with a cut waffle pattern for traction), but if it's quality, then a shoe repair shop can add more sole to it (it's got to be stitched together, not glued). May take a bit getting use to walking, but I'm hearing more and more gals are going for the option as needed! Last, I'll mention that if you're reaching for those handlebars, even a bit, a pullback riser may help you sit up straight and not pull your legs out of alignment ... something to check when next you see the bike ... and most likely buy it! – Mama Tuesday, February 12 From Margie who had an accident and is wondering about riding solo again or going to a sidecar:
Rose brought up a great thought about sidecars in response to my post
Thursday, Feb. 7th.
I had an accident last August, and I'm still working out my fear of
getting on my own bike again.
My hubby and I are also thinking about getting a Liberty Sidecar for his
Harley (we have visited the factory, in Seattle...they have beautiful
sidecars!). And, we have been researching them for a few months.
It would be foolish (and expensive) to just jump into this
without really checking it out.
First of all, we are going to take the Washington State Evergreen Safety
Council Sidecar/Trike classes in April. We both agree it would be
a good idea to try it out, as well as get the sidecar endorsement,
if for no other reason to see if he likes "driving" such a
rig. It is indeed very different that riding a motorcycle!
However, Liberty Sidecar does all the necessary changes to the
motorcycle to make it a safe and pleasant ride. This includes
changing out the triple trees to get the correct "trail" with
the front wheel, at the correct rake. With the proper
installation, riding with a side hack can be very enjoyable. If
you have to "muscle" the sidecar rig around, something is not
right with the way it is installed.
So, we shall see! It's going to be interesting to see if my
husband, who has been on motorcycles most of his life, likes it!
The classes will give us a good look-see.
Thanks so much for your reply Rose! – Margie (note from Mama: I'm so glad to hear that you'll both be checking out the classes for more clues on whether this is the pathway you want ... that's why I still think you should try solo riding class ... to give yourself some room to compare and contrast!) Monday, February 18 A Number of Announcements Dear Readers, I also direct your attention to a topic on the Message Board (General Chat Lounge, Hot Topics) that I'd like as many people as possible to chime in on ... it's about women's body image in the motorcycle community ... and does the use of slimmer models in advertisements send a mixed message to us. The Message Board can be viewed by anyone, but you need to register to contribute. If you want to contribute, but not at the board, then use the Share Your Thoughts link to do so! I have posted a review of Adelle Laudan's Iron Horse Rider. You'll recall that this was a prize in the Valentine's Day Contest! I have also posted a Honda Sabre 1100 motorcycle review from Linda W. – Mama Monday, February 18 For Dallas Girl who is looking to donate her motorcycle to a charity: Our local public (PBS) TV station (not for profit ... in San Antonio it's KLRN) accepts motorcycles, boats, vehicles, etc. so I am sure there is one in Dallas that would be thrilled to receive your donation, and it's a tax deduction for you. – Shadow Runner (note from Mama: I've included the PBS station finder link above!) Monday, February 18 For Anon who is interested in Danson Trike conversions: Danny Johnson, owner of Danson Trikes, is presently working on a trike conversion for the Suzuki Burgman 400 and the Yamaha Majesty 400 for the people that have or want these smaller scooters. I work with Danny on these kits and we expect to have them available soon. We will keep all notified on www.Dansontrikes.com as to their completion. Thanks for you support and congratulations on your excellent website. – Michael Cook (note from Mama: thanks for the update on upcoming model conversions ... there are a number of people who are interested in the mid-size scooters but want the three-wheel experience.) Monday, February 18 Dear VTwin Mama, The bike shop is in the middle of the city and I have no way of transporting it back home - even if I did get it home, I would need to ride it to the nearest parking lot through city streets. The city I understand is more dangerous than any other kind of driving for a motorcycle. How long did it take you to feel comfortable riding your first motorcycle? How might you overcome some of the problems I am currently facing? It seems the only option is to get a trailer, but with the enormous costs of getting my first bike & my first gear I can't afford to hire a trailer every time I need to take my bike to a parking lot. especially if I aim to practice a lot. I love your website because it gives me a woman's perspective. most importantly, I feel more confident after reading through everyone's comments and questions. It's about time people stopped telling me what I CAN'T do (like they said I COULDN'T handle a motorcycle because I'm so small! hah!). I feel incredibly supported, so thank you. – Elena Dear Elena, Most motorcycle dealerships will ride that bike over to your abode so at least it's there for you! Call them up again (and of course you'll be driving that person back to the shop!). If for some reason they won't do it, but you bought a Harley, ask them for the number to the head person of the HOG (Harley Owners Group) chapter ... they may be able to assist you (and may have a Ladies of Harley group associated with that HOG chapter. If you didn't buy a Harley or want a different pathway, then check for a women riding organization nearby by visiting my Women's Sites page ... there you will find listings for national level and independent riding groups. Make contact and tell them what you need. Or check my Let's Ride map and see if a VTwin Mama sister is in the area! Don't be reluctant to make contact ... you're in need of a local support group as you progress through your learning curve! Within these groups you'll also be able to attend a meeting, introduce yourself, and get some mentors. My guess is that they won't assist on bike practice unless you have taken a motorcycle riding course and have your license (which you don't mention, but may have already done). With any luck, you'll then have a group who are willing to get your bike to the nearest empty parking lot so you can practice. If not, then you're stuck like I was ... on very early Sunday mornings, when traffic was at it's lowest, I ventured out, but had mapped out an exact plan to get to the nearest lot. One hour of practice and then back home before traffic had to be dealt with. Make sure you know the basics of picking up your bike so should you have a bit of an oopsie, you can handle it. Better yet, call upon a good friend who can be there while you practice in case you need help (this can be a non-riding friend!). Comfort riding a bike is a function of practice time and to some extent, your own personal natural skill (yes, some have more than others in the beginning). The main thing here is to not hamper yourself with an artificial timeline, meaning set goals for mastering skills, but with the viewpoint on the skill learning, not how long it takes. It takes what it takes and be satisfied that that is ok! Who cares if it's a day, a week, a month, or more ... you are looking to be a skilled, confident, and safe rider that so blazing down the road is a joy! – Mama Tuesday, February 19 Dear VTwin Mama, Thermal underwear, a Scorpion anti-fog helmet, wool socks and snow boots solved all the problems of winter riding except one: keeping the hands warm! I did a lot of testing, and I wanted to share some of the results with you. It's too bad that the weather is starting to warm up again, so this may not be as useful as if I'd posted it a few months ago--but then I'd still be testing! Hopefully the Northern crew will be able to find use for the info, and if not, there's always next year---and those in the southern hemisphere! I concluded that wind is the worst thing by far, and that air is the best insulator by far. I tried all combinations of: Joe Rocket riding gloves (designed for summer
use - ~$50) Furthermore, when the back of your hand is warm,
your fingertips are cold. When your fingers are warm, your hand is
scorched. This situation is made better by wearing a the cheap thin
polyester gloves underneath, so your skin isn't directly in contact with
the heating elements, and by wearing the dishwashing gloves immediately on
top of it, keeping the heat trapped in so it circulates to your
fingertips. I few other considerations: Dear Skippii, My BMW does in fact have heated grips and I find that there is an interesting phenomenon that happens when you use them ... they warm your hands and do keep fingers from freezing as much ... however, for some reason, I also don't feel as cold overall body-wise ... perhaps it's more mental ... there's a heat source that I can feel at an extremity (hands) so I don't get to bone chill level as fast. I have heard a number of people note that heated vests are the ticket, but honestly, I always think it's the thighs that are the biggest problem (beyond feet and hands). You lose so much heat here and that forced sitting position doesn't allow for thigh muscle action ... so I'd opt for heated pants first! So, back to hands ... I honestly don't know why every make/model doesn't come with heated grips as standard ... it's truly the greatest thing since sliced bread in my estimation! – Mama Thursday, February 21 AMA Announces 2009 Women & Motorcycling Conference! Dear Readers,
Thursday, February 21 For Skippii who tested out cold weather glove ideas and reported results: It's -7 degrees Celcius here this week (19F) so Skippii's letter was of interest, even if the MC is staying tucked away until Spring! I have a suggestion, and another option to add to Skippii's test list. On a similar quest to remove wind effect, I found Rain-Off overgloves. They are totally water and windproof. I found that I can wear my mid-weight gloves under them, and be warm for a long time, up to 1.5 hours. That's enough time for the next washroom or hot chocolate break in any case, in the cold! The added clumsiness from the gloves (which look worse than they feel because under the hand is fitted fairly closer and there is extra material on the top to allow for various thicknesses of glove) is offset by not having to wear my bulkiest winter gloves underneath. Plus they are a lot easier to get on than the yellow dishwashing gloves, which I found hard to deal with. And a suggestion for Skippii's ongoing research; Kevlar gloves appear to be warm, could be used under the yellow gloves as a liner, and would take away any worries about road rash - Draggin' Jeans have them and probably others. (And a simple set of knuckle dusters would solve any road-impact problem!...kidding) With luck this would mean fewer layers (2) and retained sensitivity without sacrificing protection. VTM, your own comment about keeping the body warm was interesting, too. I have one of the heated vests, and I find that over time, it seems to spread the warmth down the tops of my arms and legs, roughly halfway to the elbow/knee. – Toronto Rider (note from Mama: I love that picture they have on the home page of Rain-Off and am happy to hear that the heated vest has the same body heat spread property as the heated grips do. As my BMW is outfitted with an accessory plug-in port, I'll have to get a heated vest in the near future. Even down here in Alabama, nights get chilly and I hate not riding 'cause my complete gear collection isn't as versatile as I need it to be!) Thursday, February 21 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear J.C., "The drop of oil may portend a failing head gasket, it may indicate a loose bolt, or it may be just a drop of oil that snuck past the ice cold head and barrel. Or it may just be a little bit of condensation that mixed with grunge on the head and ran down a fin. If you can see oil pumping past the gasket when the engine is running, then yeah, you're going to have to make the appropriate repairs. I'd start by re-torquing the head and rocker boxes, if that doesn't stop the oil it's probably time for head gasket. If the oil isn't actively running out, just ride the bike and see what develops, at some point it'll either get worse or you'll realize it's not worth worrying about." So, there you have it. Proceed with caution, but start 'er up and see what's happening and then take the steps outlined above! – Mama Thursday, February 21 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Christ, Thursday, February 21 Dear Readers, Friday, February 22 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Santana, If you knew how many thousands of letters I've received from women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, you would be amazed! Some rode in their younger years and some are beginning the adventure for the first time. The age/sex/talent range of students in a class varies from class to class ... but most times it's made up of people who are nervous because they've never been on a motorcycle! They are looking for a friendly face, hoping that some humor will get them through the jitters, and an instructor with a kind but firm heart ... they are there to teach not to coddle too much. The only laughing stock is the person who comes into the adventure in motorcycle riding, cock sure they know everything, won't have any problems, and mouth off to any one in position to offer opinions or advice. Somehow I sincerely doubt that fits your description! Your husband has bought you a beautiful bike ... now, get out there in the course on a smaller one and maybe even consider buying a used smaller one for practice after the course ... lots of people spend up to a year practicing in parking lots and such before venturing out a bit on the roads. With a course behind you, you would know all the drills you should then go back and do on the new bike! That's right, start all over again so that you begin to learn the specific things about the Harley. There are also lots of books and DVDs on the subject, so depending on whether you prefer to read to learn or watch to learn, there are tools available to help you visualize things before you even get started. So, please write back if I managed to get your situation wrong ... we stand ready to assist in any way we can! And we won't be laughing ... we'll be smiling because soon you will be part of our 4 million strong group ... the women riders! – Mama Friday, February 22 Dear VTwin Mama, After a few minutes into the ride, I start relaxing and enjoying myself
a bit more. I hope this feeling passes. It almost makes me not want to
ride when I feel that way. My kids think I have lost my mind (they're
grown). But I have a grandbaby that I absolutely adore and I think of him
every time I step on that bike and go for a spin. It helps keep me alert,
mindful of the other drivers and conditions of the road because I know one
little mistake could cost me. Dear Debbie, So thanks for letting others know they aren't alone and that it takes courage and can do attitude to keep at it ... there will be that one moment when it comes together in such a delicious way that no matter what butterflies want to tag along for the ride, they'll be ones of excitement! – Mama For No Name and anyone hearing noise in the rear wheel: I have a 2007 VStar 650 Classic and this past summer I started hearing a noise in my rear wheel after I rode about 20-30 miles. It did not do it when it was cold, so I took it to the dealer. They rode it until they heard it, then jacked it up and it went away. It would not make it without weight. If I sat on it it would do it rolling back or pushing it forward. They tried several things including putting a wheel from another bike on and it went away it Ended up being that the wheel bearing was a little loose in the hub, so they put a new hub on and the noise is gone. – Anonymous (note from Mama: thanks for sharing what you learned about this situation and glad to hear you're running smoothly again. Let's recall that if you are hearing a noise that is wheel related, it's important not to ignore it as it's wheels that keep us correctly in contact with the road and is a huge safety issue.) Monday, February 25 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Anon, With that knowledge under your belt, then perhaps the next smart thing is to hop onto a specific message board for VStars ... you would be able to talk possibilities out and find out what worked and didn't work for people riding your make/model. – Mama Monday, February 25 For Santana who is 57 and going solo after years of pillion riding: I took the MSF class a year and a half ago. There was a lady there who was 56. She dropped her bike, but, she got up and got back on. Then, at lunch, she tells us what she did and that was the reason she dropped the bike. We loved her!!!!! The instructors loved her!!! The instructors said that she was the example of a real trooper and that is what it takes to do this. She inspired me to keep at it; even though most of us was having problems too! So, it's not the age, but, the determination you have to ride. I still wonder what kind of bike she has now. I know from her determination, she is still riding. Go for it. You will do just fine. :) – Me&MyShadow (note from Mama: what a wonderful story to share ... there is enough inspiration to fuel a lot of others' dreams!) Monday, February 25 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Cloudwalker, Meanwhile, given that some things will quickly come back to you, besides considering taking a riding course, I'd hop on and do a few drills. 1) in neutral, sit on the bike and walk it forward with no power to get a feel for the new weight/balance. Then do some backing up exercises. Do a few gentle leans side to side to feel the weight and how much your legs can hold now. Now, turn the handlebar all the way to one side and see how your arm reach is to the controls. 2) fire up the bike, put it in first, and slowly let the clutch out to that first point of engagement but not any further. The bike will begin moving forward and you can duck walk along with it. You might need a little throttle so it doesn't stall. If it starts moving too fast forward, remove power from the throttle and pull in the clutch lever ... remember, you remove all power by pulling that lever in! Try it again until you've got the clutch engagement and throttle coordinated to a steady duck walk. 3) get the bike to a big empty but paved parking lot. Do the duck walk and then try picking up your feet ... remember, balance is maintained better when we pick up our feet together, not one at a time. 4) Decide if taking a riding course would be advantageous or the old skills are coming back on their own! Ok back-to-riding-after-awhile gals ... let's get some support messages in! – Mama Monday, February 25 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kathleen, So, given what we know from this letter, my advice would be to find a trike with a reverse gear. That frees up any balance issues on gravel (trike) and having to push it around (reverse gear). So now your research is threefold ... which bike, which company to make it a trike, and which can have a reverse added to it. Yikes, it's starting to sound complicated! I'd simply start by calling one dealership that offers information about trike conversions, etc. A well known name in trike conversion is Lehman Trikes and they have a dealer just north of Salt Lake City, UT or up in Greeley, CO. Call one and get an idea of what models they can convert and add a reverse gear to. – Mama Monday, February 25 Dear VTwin Mama, I’m a 32 year old, confident,
happy, well adjusted woman (sassy and classy as required in your headers)
and yet I have just managed to get myself into the most stupid state over
riding a bike. Tears, jelly legs, the whole caboodle. I’m from the Having practised on a car park for
a few hours, with these boy wonders looking on in a bored fashion, I was
taken out to the quiet back roads where I managed to let go of the clutch
while revving. I ended up on the verge, having broken the indicator and
grazed both my knees, with my jeans tangled up on the stand so I
couldn’t even get up without being help by a gallant youth. I
didn’t cry, and I rode the bike back – this is the only pride I can
glean from that moment. As we couldn’t continue with the
broken indicator, and as I needed another 2 hours riding to complete the
CBT the instructor suggested he come back to my home another day to
compete the time on my bike (bought, shiny, and unused at home) and that I
try to get time in practicing before then. I did that, although not
a lot of practicing, as I kept on making excuses to myself about not being
road legal, our lane being mainly gravel (we’re in a rural spot), I had
deadlines for work, I even prioritized housework which isn’t like me. I
thought I’d managed to laugh the incident off, but I got so jittery
every time I started to pull off. That day came for him to come
complete the day and it took some effort to even move off the spot. I
managed it, but it was a close call, and then we were off. Slowly, but it
felt good. Then coming out of a bend, down a steep hill, my bike lost all
power. For some reason I looked down to see why – I have no idea what I
expected to see, the bike pixies holding up signs explaining things? But
at least I had the sense to brake which was good, because when I looked up
all I could see was a stone wall. I rolled gently into it, denting the
front guard, and my pride. We discovered, a mile or so further on
that the power loss was due to running out of petrol. Ego takes a further
bash, and onto the reserve tank – and yet again my poor ego, when I
realize that I don’t have any money on me. We rode (very slowly) into
the nearest garage, he buys me petrol, and while he’s paying an out of
control 4x4 swerves off the road towards me. He obviously misses, I’m
typing this now, but it didn’t help, putting that little bit more
tension into my highly strung nerves. By this time all I want to do is get
home. We ride home. I think I hit 25mph at one stage on the way home, but
I know I didn’t get out of 2nd gear. This was enough for him to sternly
tell me I can have the certificate to ride. He pointed out that I’m
safe, but that I need to a) take (small) risks and speed up, b) practice,
a lot. At least one hour everyday. Elated at having been given the all
clear I get very drunk with the boyfriend. Yesterday (the day after
getting my cert.) I was too hung-over to ride. That was my excuse. Today I
didn’t have one. At least not once I’d walked the dog, checked my
email, done the laundry…. It took me ages to get on that
bike (hours if I’m going to be honest). I made my partner take me out
pillion first. I cried, I fell into self-doubt and self-pity and was
shaking like a leaf and beating myself up all the while for over-reacting
and being so stupid. But I did it. I got on my bike and turned off into
the road. This being the I know that logically only by
riding will I improve my riding. I know that I have wanted a bike since I
was 13, and my bike is beautiful, that this whole thing is something I
want, yet I came so close to just giving in today, and I’ve been giving
myself such a hard time over being so, well, chicken about it. I guess I wanted to let you know
that the site has really helped. It’s not ‘pathetic’ or any of
the other names that I I’ve been calling myself to react badly to bad
moments. Just hearing that other women have been nervous about it has
really put things back into perspective for me. Reading that other women
have had the same sort of mishaps and gone on to ride again, no matter how
slowly really has made a difference. For some reason I was believing that
every other bike rider must just have got on their bikes and off into the
sunset without a mishap or glitch, or a hint of nerves. When I think about getting back
out there tomorrow I still tense up a little, but the cattle stampede that
my stomach has been doing has stopped, and more importantly I know I’m
going to, rather than hoping I can. I just need to practice, and learn,
and gain confidence. Big thanks, huge ones in fact, to you and the women who told their tales, somehow I don’t think there are pages like this on the male forums ;) - please, please keep it up, I’m sure I’ll be back. – Lou Dear Lou, Do you hear a little noise somewhere behind you ... it's getting a little louder now ... that's clapping from every pair of women riders' hands applauding you as the journey continues. Quick ... acknowledge it or it will become quite deafening! I was especially drawn to the wonderful list of excuses you had at the ready ... see, this is how housework gets done ... and I too used it to great affect in the beginning. Unfortunately, I kept learning and practicing and now the house is a bit of a mess, the motorcycle has to cry out to get washed, because the road calling to me is the loudest voice! I would like to offer a thank you to the instructor who didn't give up on you, the boyfriend who stands at the ready when you need him, and to you, for having the smarts to do some online research that led you to the Jitters section. Now, out you go to pat the bike on the tank and say, "Very soon my beautiful bike, we will be moving down the road together in confidence because I know that's what we both want!" – Mama Tuesday, February 26 For Kathleen who is considering a trike for her new rural location: One of our Rocky Mountain (chapter of WITW) members rides a Honda Goldwing Trike that has all the bells and whistles + reverse. It seems to be a reliable and a well balanced machine. Just my 2 cents worth. I've never driven it, but been on several rides with her over the years. – Jasmine (note from Mama: Goldwings appear to have a good trike conversion record and the GWers have an excellent support/membership system as well.) Tuesday, February 26 Hello VTwin Mama, I now have a shiny steel plate in the wrist of my throttle hand. I and my motorcycle have fully recovered and we have taken several rides together, of 100 miles or less. I usually let my hubby tag along to keep me company (he won't let me ride alone anymore). I am sending a picture of me and my bike [you'll find that in the Photo Gallery], which my hubby repaired to like new condition. It is a 1995 Honda 600 Shadow which he lowered to fit my 4' 11" frame. I would like to thank you and all of your readers who sent me e-mails encouraging me not to give up and lending their prayers and support. I read your column regularly and enjoy hearing from other lady riders. Keep up the good work. Thanks, – Brenda P. Dear Brenda, What a long journey of recuperation you have been on, but clearly over time, and with the restoration of your bike, you've decided that riding is something you wish to once again pursue ... kudos to you ... I know that's not an easy mental process, as I once went through it myself. I wish you a joyful season this year! Many thanks to your hubby dearest, who has helped you through the process to this stage, stands by to ride, and understands that finding one's wings again is necessary to who we are! – Mama Tuesday, February 26 Hi VTwin Mama, Where do beginners learn? Also, I am interested in getting a bike that fits short women. Any suggestions? My pride is bruised, and though I am nervous about it, I still want to own and learn to drive a motorcycle. I have an excellent driving record in a car. I think with practice I would make a safe motorcyclist. Any suggestion on this? Thanks, – Pat Dear Pat, Yes, in this case, where does one then go for qualified instruction? I will assume you took an MSF course. What is not as well known is that "below" the Basic RiderCourse, some course providers offer a class that is deliberately kept smaller and allows students the time to work on every single detail in their own time (relatively speaking). They aren't offered by everyone, so I would look around your area for other course providers and see if they have this, or a women's only class coming up. And take the time to talk with the new instructor before hand. Many people note that what helped them was to buy a cheap used 250cc bike and get some basic practice time in on their own, now that you've had some beginning drill work knowledge. Something to think about! At the same time, you can inquire about private lessons to get you started ... And I wouldn't dismiss the idea of contacting the local Harley-Davidson dealers to see who offers a Rider's Edge class. They'll use the Buell Blast (492cc), which is bigger, but I've heard that you may find a smaller class structure (but again, ask and also interview the instructor!). As to bikes that fit shorter riders ... on my Motorcycles for Short Riders page, you'll find a list of bikes that note the rider's height and any modifications they made for proper fit. I'd start there to gain an understanding of what can be done. Sometime in the next month, I'll be announcing a new section on this site that will show bike makes/models with pictures of riders' sitting on their bikes by height, with notes as needed. It's a huge project, but one that will finally allow someone new to envision themselves on a bike before heading to the happy hunting ground of bike buying! Now, toss that embarrassment away because you actually belong to a very important group of new riders ... the ones that have to search a bit more for the right instruction and must dig deep to try it again. Yes, you can do it! – Mama Wednesday, February 27 Interview with VTwin Mama on Raven's Rides Site Dear Readers, Wednesday, February 27 For Pat, whose first riding class attempt didn't go well: Not sure where you are located, but if in Southern California, call me- I can help you as most of my students are short ladies who flunked the national riding school . Otherwise, call your local Honda dealer- their Gold Wing clubs often offer play days where senior riders may be asked if they are willing to assist you in learning to ride. – Dorathy at SoCal Real Riders (note from Mama: interesting note on the GWers ... I didn't know that!) Wednesday, February 27 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Jenny, While scooters can be purchased for less, I'm not sure I'd recommend them for higher speed roads you need to be on unless you went up to a bigger size, and then we butt against the price issue. If your pocketbook has a bit more room, let's say up to $3,500, you'll find 250cc bikes like the Ninja 250 (sport style), Honda Rebel 250 (cruiser), Suzuki GZ250, or a Yamaha Virago 250. The reason I started out with new bikes is that you won't be buying something you know nothing about in terms of maintenance, etc. However, with the models I listed above, you may find price points for a used bike lower than a new Kawi Eliminator, although there has been a recent buying frenzy on these smaller bikes because of gas prices. So, I would check the local paper and online channels for classified ads to see what's available. It's important to note that other costs are going to hover nearby ... registration, taxes, insurance, maintenance items, and riding gear. They are mechanical beasties that need to be fed and you don't want to be out and about without proper protection. So, start with that list and visit dealerships to sit on bikes and get some beginning ideas together. – Mama Wednesday, February 27 Hi VTwin Mama, Dear Patricia, One is US Trikes in Maryland and they note that Ridley did provide them support in working on this kit, but that Ridley does not endorse the product. You'll have to email them as I'm not sure if it's a DIY kit or the bike has to be transported to MD for the changeover. If they are the company I'm thinking of, the waiting list was very long last I heard, so be prepared for that! I will also note that MTC Voyager has a different kind of kit ... it doesn't remove the rear wheel ... rather it's two added wheels and can be removed whenever. So that's something to check in to. The last time I talked with Clay Ridley, founder/owner of the company, he was on the fence about conversions. I'd call the company's headquarters in Oklahoma City, OK (405-525-5400) and talk it out to get the latest word on this. – Mama Wednesday, February 27 Hi there Mama, I'm looking for 'my perfect bike.' I have been riding bikes on and off for many years, as a young girl in the bush and later on a Honda 250cc for a year to work every day. That was about 10yrs ago. I'm now 36yrs old, 5'6" and about 138lbs and have just recently got the 'bug' again. I've been tonking about on a Honda Rebel 250cc and a 200cc Scooter but want to buy something bigger now. I'm eying a Harley Sportster 883 Custom, but to be honest, am a little nervous about the weight of the bike. I want to ride on the weekends and hopefully get a few hours in around the city and occasionally on the open road. I also like a bit of power. Have there been positive reviews on the Sportster by women and can you give me some suggestions on others I might feel comfortable with? Thank you so much, looking forward to your reply. Cheers, – Sherri : ) Dear Sherri, You can start by reading a review on my site of that Sporty you're interested in from a gal with 20 years of riding experience. Then you can hop onto my Motorcycles for Short Riders page and see not only a list to understand how bikes can be modified if they sit too high, but a list of makes/models with the rider's height and any modifications they made. While one does have to consider the weight of a motorcycle, I think the balance of the weight is the bigger issue. You want something you're comfortable on coming to a stop, something you can hold up with your leg on a slight lean angle, and one that you can roll forward and backward for parking, etc. Once the bike is moving, then it's about your skill level, practice, and learning the specific handling characteristics while its on the move. The only way to get a weight/balance feel is to visit a dealer, take along a notebook, and sit on bikes! Any bikes! Write the make/model down, sit on it, get it off the side stand, lean a bit left and right to feel it (with your hand on the front brake so it doesn't roll), roll a bit forward and back, turn that handlebar all the way to one side and check your hand reach to the controls, and check your leg reach to controls and to the ground. Then get on another bike and do the same. After awhile, you'll develop a sense of things and be able to look at models with a more clear vision. Visit dealers as many times as you need even if you're pretty sure you're going to buy a used bike! What would I recommend you look at? Yamaha VStar 650, Suzuki Boulevard S40 of S50, Kawasaki Vulcan, any of the Honda Shadow 750s, and that Sportster. And if you go back to my Reviews by Women index page, you'll find some reviews of these models also. Another source of women's riding reviews can be found at WomenRidersNow.com. At the bottom of this page, don't miss the Archives link to more! Ok, hopefully these thoughts will get you started on finding that "it's truly the bike for me" motorcycle! – Mama |
