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Dear
VTwin Mama, What bikes do you recommend for a beginner? I'm a little over 5'7", and a muscular 185 lbs. My upper body is stronger than most women my size. I'm looking for a cruiser -- I realize that's a pigeon hole women motorcyclists avoid, but I really am a smell-the-flowers kinda girl -- and preferably a model that I can find used, since I'm still struggling to pay off my college loans. Also, do you recommend going through the CA Motorcyclist Safety Program? I live in San Diego, and the Pacific Safety Council offers what seems to be a comprehensive program, but then again I'm new to this world so there might be something better out there that I don't know about. Lastly, how do I get in touch with other women riders in San Diego? I've met a few randomly (mostly in girl bars) but I've had a hard time feeling like I could fit in with this crowd. I'm a girly girl and don't want to be dismissed because of my appearances. I know I'm a badass inside and I can't wait to hop on and ride! Thanks! yumi-ko Dear
yumi-ko, As you noted in your letter submission, you found my site through the Sol Sisters site, the San Diego chapter of Women In The Wind, a national women's riding organization. This is a good place to start! Whether you are a girly girl, badass girly girl, or any other combination, fitting in is all about saying hi . . . introduce yourself, attend a meeting, be yourself, listen well, smile lots . . . and remember, to have a friend, be a friend! If you would like to explore other groups in the area, I have listings on my Women's Sites page. Riding courses are offered in three basic flavors: 1) through
an affiliate of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), which is what the
CA program you found is. If you would like more insights about what you should consider before signing up for a course, I offer my Learning To Ride a Motorcycle article ($3.95), which is a comprehensive look at what you should know before you begin (with lots of tips straight from the very woman who participate at this site and offered their views!). One of these days I'm actually going to complete my new Buying Your First Motorcycle article, but for now, the wisdom is this: Take a course. Here you'll start on a 125cc, 250cc or 492cc motorcycle (depending on the course). This will give you many insights into what you think your next step should be. Some riders realize that more practice on a similar bike is the right ticket, while others are ready to try a midrange bike and others yet graduate right to a larger (1000cc or over) bike. In all cases, the beastie must be brought to an empty parking lot so that the very same drills you learned in your class can be repeated until you're ready and confident about a mini road ride on a low traffic day/time. At your height and body strength, you'll have fewer problems on fit and bike weight. Unfortunately, you've missed a few motorcycle shows (north of you) where you could have seen many bikes under one roof, but none-the-less, the idea is then to visit dealers, sit on bikes, check your arm and leg reach to the controls, leg reach to the ground, roll the bike a bit for weight considerations, etc. Sure, you're in the market for a used bike, but if you visit dealers, you can narrow down your "options" a bit . . . that which you like and fall in love with! That makes looking at ads a bit easier! It looks like 2007 is going to be an exciting year for you . . . and we hope you'll let us know how it's going! Mama Monday, January 1 Dear
VTM, I've been riding my Yamaha 650 Custom for about a year (6500 miles) now and after a few near misses, I've been considering getting a headlight modulator. After researching them, it seems like they would help to avoid a lot of those collisions that occur when motorists turn in front of you.. ('cause it's all about being seen). Does anyone out there have any experience or opinions to share? Thanks, and Ride Safe everyone.. Debbie in Salinas, CA Dear
Debbie, Monday, January 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jen, Monday, January 1 Hi
Mama, Dear
Annie, Wednesday, January 3 For yumi-ko who is looking to take a riding course: Not to toot my own horn but I have taught a couple of gals from Sol Sisters how to ride. Check out my SoCal Real Riders school. I operate a private riding school in Oceanside, CA and have worked with 337 new riders in 2006, all of whom took my course and then passed the DMV skills test their first time! Dorathy Biddinger (note from Mama: toot away, you have much to be proud about! I would have mentioned your school but forgot about how close to San Diego it is!) Wednesday, January 3 For Debbie who is considering a modulating headlight for visibility to other vehicles: I too am concerned about cars pulling out in front of me. I had not yet considered the headlight modulator but I ride with my high beam lights on during the day and flicker them from low to high when approaching a car that could pull out in front of me. Unfortunately, this trick doesn't work as well when you are driving in heavy traffic. Jody (note from Mama: yes, highbeam mode during the daytime is perfectly acceptable and a flicker action, like a horn beeping or a throttle goose to roar pipes, are ways to announce one's presence. What I like about the modulator is that you're not concentrating on a hand action if you think there is potential trouble, the headlight is already doing something. However, the ability of drivers to not see us is a constant source of amazement no matter what you do . . . so never count on any one thing on the bike or your riding gear to be the attention grabber . . . it's always about defensive riding with the hopes that visibility items will assist.) Wednesday, January 3 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Denise, This is a good time to remind everyone that at the bottom of the VTM Home Page is a Google search tool . . . and if you click into the site address option, you can search just the VTwin Mama site to find postings. I often use this (!) when the subject matter might be scattered around or maybe it's not quite as intuitive as to where something may be archived! Mama Wednesday, January 3 Hi
Mama, Dear
BBB, I myself am a Metzler fan for no other reason that I've found them to wear beautifully (when proper tire pressure is maintained) and they are well recognized in the motorcycle industry. Does anybody have input on Bridgestone? If you go to this WebBikeWorld page, you'll see a section on tire reviews that leads to links you might want to try. Mama VTwin
Mama Reviews:
Take one seasoned rider out in a new jacket for 287 riding miles and there's no doubt that Fox Creek Leather's Vented Touring Jacket delivers! Review conclusion: stylish, functional, inspires confidence on the road. Read all about it here! Thursday, January 4 More for yumi-ko who is looking to take a riding course: I learned to ride at a Team Oregon class last year. I think a big advantage with this class was learning to ride on a 125 cc bike. I learned later from a Honda dealer that he lost a couple of sales because the women took a class at the H-D dealership on 492 cc Buells and weren't able to handle the bikes. They decided that riding was beyond their capabilities and cancelled their orders. Hope this helps. I love your website because it addressed a lot of the problems I was having. I purchased a 2005 Honda Shadow 750R for my first bike, and I love it. I've taken it out on gravel roads, highways and freeways, in pouring down rain and sunshine, and it's done everything I've asked plus! Thank you again, Mama! Katie (note from Mama: I agree that the size of motorcycle used in motorcycle courses can affect the experience, which is why in my Learning To Ride A Motorcycle article I advocate that people visit a course if possible before signing up. I'm glad to hear your own first bike is proving to be a winner!) Thursday, January 4 More for Debbie who is considering a modulating headlight for visibility: Regarding the problem of cars turning in front of you: if I see a possibility of that happening, I now start to weave back and forth in my lane. In a British study it was determined that a majority of these accidents could possibly have been avoided with this simple action because it makes the bike and rider seem bigger. I think a lot of times drivers see a motorcycle, but just dismiss it. Katie (note from Mama: thanks for reminding us of this simple technique and noting the study. Hee hee, maybe all bikes could be outfitted with a transmitter and all cars with a receiver that beeps or flashes a bright light on the dashboard when a motorcycle is in their vicinity! Would they dismiss that as well?!?!?!) Thursday, January 4 Hi
Petra, There is one "foreign" bike on display which is an "Indian," a present donated by the New York City Police. I would strongly recommend any biker visiting the UK to see this Museum. It is of course based in Birmingham where most of the bikes were made and is located at Junction 6 on the M42 motorway, about 90 miles outside of London. Best regards, Tim Dear
Tim, Friday, January 5 In response to VTwin Mama's review of a Fox Creek Leather jacket: Saw your review on the Fox Creek jacket -- just wanted to chime in and tell everyone that I own two pair of gloves that I wouldn't trade for anything!! I have the Women's deerskin, fleece lined gauntlets that work in 45 up to 70 degree weather. They are undoubtedly the most comfortable gloves I've ever owned (run a little small!). I also ordered a larger size in the men's line of the same type of glove to wear with a glove liner for the "under 40 degree" weather. Shipping is super fast and I have been VERY pleased with their stuff. P.S. That jacket looks AWESOME on you!! Denise Porterfield (note from Mama: I think so too! I'm glad to hear that your experience with Fox Creek Leather has been wonderful . . . I've got a pair of the regular women's deerskin gauntlets from FCL that I've sent to Nanci Rogers of Ace High Leathers in CA to get a bumblebee bling design to match my Bumblebee BMW R1200C. I'll be reviewing both the gloves and Nanci's work when those come back! One note about FCL gloves . . . they indicate in their return policy that if gloves you ordered didn't fit, return them with a tracing of your hand, fingers spread apart, and they'll get it right for you! You can do that even before hand if you want to work on correct fit right off the bat!)Just wanted to say you look great in the new jacket. What a perfect fit on you! The smile shows how much you love it. Lookin' good, Debby (note from Mama: thanks! I think the flexibility of the gentle elastic, ribbing, and side adjustment do a nice job of "customizing" the fit . . . and you don't have to be a "skinny mini" to look great! Ok, maybe we already understand that last point, but finding the right fit for different body shapes can be a challenge sometimes!) Hello
VTwin Mama, I haven't put enough miles on it to give it a review, but I really like the feel of it so far. I saw that a couple of other riders on your website own the same bike. Thanks for providing a great website for women riders. Ann Peace in Valdosta, GA Dear
Ann, In addition to this advice column, readers can extend their VTwin Mama site experience with the weekly VTwin Mama Newsletter ($12/year) and by joining the VTwin Mama Message Board. There is also a VTwin Mama Mentor Program for riders who wish to offer assistance on a more personal level. Whew . . . we're busy gals! Have fun exploring the site and I look forward to hearing more about how it's going for you! Mama Monday, January 8 Dear
VTwin Mama,
Dear
Megan, Tuesday, January 9 For Ruta who survived an accident and is on the mend: I am
grateful with you that your injuries were not worse and am glad that you are
mending. What an awesome sight to see the picture of you back on your bike,
sling and all!! We all know that take . . . well, courage!!! I extend an invitation to you (and everyone) to share as much of your accident experience and thoughts during the accident, road conditions, bike type, etc., thoughts during rescue and transport, hospital stay, support, or lack there of, mental and physical set-backs and victories as you can or wish to. Sharing
our journeys during these times can not only help us to process it all, but
it gives others permission to seek support from the biker community as well.
I realize that you may not have a need to share, but there may be someone
out there who needs to hear it; gaining insight, support and inspiration as
you tell of your experience. Continue
to mend and I will be thinking of you! Tuesday, January 9 For BBB who was wondering about tire brand preferences: I've used Bridgestone for the last 6 years, I've just upgraded to a VTX 1800 R, but my last 6 years have been on a Vulcan Nomad. I usually get about 14,000 out the front and 11,000 - 12,000 out of the rear, but I do pull a trailer. I've been very happy with the wear on these tires and plan to put the brand on my VTX. Cindy (cheeks) in New Mexico (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Tuesday, January 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Tammy, Let's see if any readers know of something available. I don't know of a specific "gathering place" on the Internet for used sales. You may wish to contact the most local distributors of MTC Voyager in your area to put the word out. Mama Tuesday, January 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Thanks to you and all of your readers who write in with such valuable information! Tempe (aka Baby Steps) Dear
Tempe, Tuesday, January 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, You have to insert the key into the helmet lock, turn clockwise, and when it opens, push down on a latch that is right under the key. Then you SLIDE the seat back, and there you will find . . . the owners manual.!! We had to buy the owners manual to find this out. Now we have TWO manuals. If anyone needs one, they can get in touch with me via e-mail. I hope you will share this information on your site to let others know about this answer to the problem. Thank you, Tricia in Wickenburg, AZ Dear
Tricia, Thanks for sharing the combination of steps needed to remove this bike's seat . . . I seem to recall that a friend's '86 BMW had the same two-step process . . . which then revealed the manual and the tool kit! Mama Wednesday, January 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, I'm beginning to ride more and learn how to wrench my bike from a friend. He has written some how-to's which some readers may like: We Ride On Sundays. It is kind of DIY auto and bike repairs without a big budget or tools. Here's how I found out about the VTwin Mama site: the all-seeing Google! Leon S. Dear
Leon, Wednesday, January 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, I
started last February on a Rebel. Last June I took to a Yamaha 650
Midnight Custom, and then, when I was ready (4000 miles on the VStar), I
hunted and hunted and . . . well, the fit of this bike physically and the
lure of a sportier ride sucked me in. I am smiling even more on this ride
than before!! It
inspired me to write this:
When the rubber meets the highway and
the air goes rushing past, Dear
Susan, And what a delightful poem you have written! I'm so glad that I and the VTwin Mama site have been part of your journey . . . you embody the VTM message, "Why Not Me." Mama Thursday, January 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, Can you recommend an automatic transmission motorcycle, comfortable (weight and height) and powerful enough, for a small, phobic man to commute 55 miles each way to work on? Lane Davis Dear
Lane, One way to begin your research is to take a look at my Auto Tranny Models list . . . here you will find auto tranny motorcycles currently in production, models you might find on the used market (that are no longer made), as well as scooter-styled bikes that have a bit more oomph to them for that longer commute you have. Now let's look at some factors you need to consider. First, the bigger the cc engine power of a bike, the heavier it will be (in general). However, if your commute incorporates hilly terrain, you want to be sure that you don't pick something undersized or you could be struggling to keep up with traffic flow. Second is the seat height . . . as a shorter rider, you'll need to visit dealer showrooms and check your reach to hand and foot controls as well as your leg reach to the ground at a stop. One way to minimize motorcycle weight and balance issues is to consider "triking" your chosen model . . . even the mid- to mega-range scooters now have options to transform a make/model into a trike. My recommendation: if $$ for the purchase is not restricted, I'd be looking at Ridley (they sit low right off the bat!). If the cost needs to be lower, I'd head to the local Suzuki dealer to look at the Burgman scooters. If you don't mind waiting a bit, Piaggio (Italy) is bringing in a three-wheeled motorcycle that's got the community buzzing . . . the MP3 has two wheels in front and one in back. The reviews are pretty good but at 250cc, it may not be right if your commute must include highway travel (or the aforementioned hills). There have also been sightings of another two/one wheel bike with 1000cc from Canada . . . but it's not clear if it's actually an auto tranny or not. One more thing I'd like to bring to your attention. Just because a motorcycle doesn't require manual shifting or there are more wheels, doesn't mean you should just hop on and go. Just like you didn't just get in a car and drive off into the sunset, you need to consider training and/or practice. There are some motorcycle schools that are offering specific classes for scooter and trike riders. The place to start would be to check what the local course provider for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) is offering in your area. In many cases, successful completion means you'll have your license in hand and a possible reduction in insurance costs. Ok, off you go to explore some more . . . let us know how it's going! It's what we do best . . . share and care! Mama Thursday, January 11 Hi
Petra,
Dear
Tempe, Thursday, January 11 For Susan (Tink) who sent in a photo: I loved your picture with you and your bike and your husband and his bike. I, too, am a Harley rider with a husband who rides a Triumph. His is a red Sprint ST. The bikes are so different and Harley and Triumph are like two different cultures, but we all love the same thing, don't we -- the freedom and exhilaration of the ride. I'll have to get a picture of us with our bikes and send it in.. Jody (note from Mama: how fun . . . two families with the HD/Triumph mix! We LIVE for photos . . . did you know that the Photo Gallery is consistently the third top page visited at the VTwin Mama site?! Right behind the Message Board and this Home Page! Obviously our collective grade school experiences of show and tell has stuck with us! Ok, ok . . . it's a few days of "fame" as well . . . so send 'em in!) Thursday, January 11 For Tammy who is looking for a used trike conversion kit for her Sporty 883: Tammy may want to contact Brothers of the Third Wheel. It is a trike club (obviously). Someone may be able to help her there. v45magna (Canadian Chicks Rule) (note from Mama: I've had a few comments about the BTW . . . in that they mocked newer riders' questions . . . however, this might have related to the main chat room . . . I would recommend heading to the Links page to find the local chapters and make contact. That brings up another Internet site that may be able to assist . . . Trike Riders International . . . comments have been that they are supportive and I've had personal email contact and they seemed to have the same share/care considerations that the VTM site does.) Friday, January 12 For Lane who is considering getting a bike for commute economy: I would never for a second want to discourage anyone from a motorcycle if riding is their dream, however I feel the need to mention that I got more miles per gallon out of my car than I do out of my motorbike! I had a 1.25l Ford Fiesta car, which was fantastically efficient, if not nearly so much fun. I know you guys in America probably don't even have cars nearly that small! They do offer advantages in practicality and dryness for long commutes though. I think the problem is that anything with carburetors is always much less fuel efficient than things with fuel injection (maybe Lane should take this into account when thinking about bikes?). Fuel Injection is definitely on my wishlist for the next bike :) Michelle (note from Mama: an interesting thought, which I'm glad you shared!) Friday, January 12 Hi
Petra, Dear
Bobbye, After contacting local alterations shops, I ended up calling a local motorcycle gear company (Jamin' Leather) to find that they employ a leather seamstress who does alterations for their customers as well as run her own business on the side. Now, the reality might be that the grade of leather used in pants may or may not be compatible with what one would wish for in chaps. Donna Coffey (that local seamstress I have in Myrtle Beach, SC) should be able to help you noodle out possibilities and can be reached at 843-234-2131 or clykclykboom@earthlink.net. I've also been in contact with Nanci Rogers of Ace High Leathers out of CA and have had letters that her work on alterations is top-notch, so I'm thinking she also could talk/email with you about what's what. It would be a start if you can't find a shop local to you. Mama For Tammy who is looking for a used Voyager conversion kit for her Sporty 883: Tammy, I have a trike kit for sale. I sold my bike but took the kit off. You would need a new belly pan because the kit was on a Yamaha. Voyager Trike Kit Class A, which is the short one for small bikes. Joann (note from Mama: I'll make sure Tammy sees your message!) Tammy, have you tried Roadsmith at http://trikeshop.com? I have ordered a Honda VTX with this kit and it seems to be the best I have seen. From HD to metric, they seem to cover them all, and in a very good way. Storage, style, and easy ride in one package.. Hope you enjoy, Scooter (note from Mama: thanks for sharing a possible source!) Monday, January 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Your
readers have identified the advantages as: I am interested in any feedback or further suggestions you and your readers might have. Thanks! Rick Walters (Walters Manufacturing) Dear
Rick, Monday, January 15 Even more for Debbie who is considering a modulating headlight for visibility: I too ride (and LOVE) a 650 VStar. I never, never ride
without the high beam on during the day. The Yamaha lights are just not bright
enough unless they are on high. Stay safe! Monday, January 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Thank you for your time. Mikey Dear
Mickey, I'm betting if you went to the local dealer of the bike you wish to modify, they would be able to scare up a modification kit, whether it's from the mfg. or an aftermarket company. For instance, I found several products on the Badlands Motorcycle Products site, so I'm guessing there are more around! Mama Tuesday, January 16 Dear
VTwin Mama, I'm interested in a 2007 Fatboy but I think that I will have a lot of problems with the Jiffy Stand distance. I'm 5'4". What does short bikers do? It's possible to put it in similar position than a Dyna? Thanks. Carlos from Spain Dear
Carlos, In visiting the US Harley-Davidson site, choose the Accessories & Apparel link at the top, then choose Genuine Motor Accessories, then type in the year and choose the Fatboy model, and then choose Foot Controls. There you will see the extension kits. When I tried this on the Espaρa version of the site, the Productos section didn't bring up the views on the kits. With this information you should be able to talk with your local dealer about the kits. Good luck! Mama Tuesday, January 16 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Karen, Bottom line . . . motorcycles, by design, expose the riders to the elements. The only protection is for the rider to be as skilled, proactive and safe as possible. Passengers should be old enough to understand that wiggling around while on the bike is strictly forbidden. They should be geared up completely, including a DOT approved helmet. I know of no strap-in children's safety seats . . . strapping someone to a motorcycle is inherently dangerous . . . we, as riders, know that sometimes one has to ditch the bike depending on the nature of the problem. Placing a child in a trailer would also not be a good idea. It sounds like a sidecar would be the best option, but again, they are not specifically designed to incorporate a safety seat. I'm hoping someone who has tried this will offer their input. Does one see riders with small children seated in front of them from time to time? Yes. Is it safe? I think the bigger issue is if you (and in this case, the parents) are willing to assume the risk factor. It's a big one. There is some previous input on taking kids on bikes, which can be found on my Ride Techniques: Passenger Riding page. You may wish to scroll through and read these. Mama Tuesday, January 16 Even more for Debbie who is considering a modulating headlight for visibility: Here is what I have done to increase my headlight visibility. It was very quick, easy and cheap to do. I replaced the stock bulb with a Kuryakyn 55/60 watt H-4 (Premium Blue) which is equal to 100 watt clear. I also added the Kuryakyn Rainbow Strobe. This is a little assembly that fits over the bulb and creates a colorful pattern, but does not interfere with the bulb brightness. According to the site I bought mine from, there may be some sort of local regulations against these, but I have had not had any problems with mine. Total cost was about $40 and took not even 20 minutes to complete. I have received lots of comments from other riders about how bright my headlight looks. I have also noticed that when I pull up behind a car, the headlight seems to get their attention, as I always get a glance in their rearview. Additionally, I always make sure that all the bug goo is cleaned off my headlight and that the glass is crystal clear. Shakti AeroRider (note from Mama: awesome! For an overall idea of what Kuryakyn offers, hop onto the site and choose your bike section and then lighting.) Tuesday, January 16 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have no choice. I have to force dropping my planning to buy the motorcycle. Reason My brother, older sister and I help my mom to pay the flower, hospital, and funeral.... Of course it is very expansive. I feel being poor again. I don't know what I plan to . . . buying the motorcycle in the future . . . or not . . . I never forget the best moment about my dad bought his first brand new motorcycle in 1973. I have old picture with me, But I don't remember where I put somewhere in the house. So. This biker was very very rare. Not America bike. That bike came from Italy in the larger company of foreign motorcycle. It called " Benilli " that motorcycle company. Look alike shape like Triumph or BSA bike. It come to America from Italy. Very hard to find this kind of rare motorcycle in anywhere U.S.!! Anyway, I was around 9 years old. I hopped back seat with him on his Benilli biker. I rode with him feeling good a breeze wind. I loved it. I fell in love with Benilli very much. He said to me, "Someday. When You get older. I will give you this Benilli." Short time. Very sad . . . he sold someone for his motorcycle beecause he needed money. More than 20 years ago. I was very disappointed about my favorite Benilli. Myself hate being mourn about my father is gone very sad. Now, Myself never have been in my dream come true about being Deaf Woman Biker.... I really want deserve it. Hummm I don't know what to do.. :::sigh::: My mother still on and off mood... I feel sort of okay. Michelle DellaPelle in Basking Ridge, NJ Dear
Michelle While I can appreciate that you have a "dream" motorcycle in mind, you may wish to consider buying a small used motorcycle so that you can continue practicing your skills. Take a look in the classified section of your local newspaper to see what might be available and then save your money! Many women (and men) start this way and then, after a year or two, are ready to handle and afford their dream bike. It's just so important not to let your skills sit on a shelf. Yes, taking a full mechanics school course can be quite expensive, but that doesn't mean you can't start learning how motorcycles work and how to do maintenance and repair on them! I like Dan's Online Motorcycle Repair Course (free) and also Mark Zimmerman's The Essential Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance (about $20). Why not begin your studies this way?!?! I wish you the very best as you continue to pursue your adventure in motorcycle riding. Don't give up . . . dreams can be realized if you stick with it. Mama Wednesday, January 17 For Karen (Minidiva) who is exploring how to safely bring younger children on a ride: Minidiva, I have a five year old daughter that has been riding as my passenger since she was three years old . There is much to consider when taking that step but in my personal experience I would not have denied her the joy of being on the bike for anything. I agree with Mama about a little one being tethered to THE BIKE in any form is a huge risk . I solved this by using a belt system where she is belted TO ME (safe or not is hard to determine and thank God we haven't had an experience to test it). What it does solve is when she falls asleep which is inevitable with the amount of miles we do together on the bike . It keeps her tethered to me and from slipping or sliding off the bike. The belt I picked up from an army navy surplus store with a giant clasp in front that simply goes around both of us . You would not believe the grief I get when she is asleep and people don't realize she is tethered to me -- horns honking , people rolling down windows shouting at me that she is asleep and going to fall off and even though I know it is with the best of interest it does get really irksome at times. She has literally done 3 or 4 hundred mile days in this manner with no problems. She makes quite a site back there waving at vehicles and blowing kisses to all the traffic . Madison will throw her arms out with her little braids flying behind her shouting to the world that we are "FLYING ANGELS" !! Is no doubt that having children on motorcycles is risky but for us the risk is well worth the love laughter and joy we share together as mom and daughter on the motorcycle and as long as I take every possible precaution I can with helmets and top of the line safety gear for both of us, all that's left is the pure enjoyment of being on the road. Hugs, Purpleponygal and daughter How does one transport a child safely on a motorcycle? One doesn't. A parent assuming to accept responsibility for doing something like that with their own child is one thing, but a niece or nephew??? Niece or nephew's parents need their head examined and a hospitalization insurance check-up if they allow any child of theirs under a MINIMUM of age 7 to go for a ride with Auntie. Any child cannot fully understand the consequences of an inappropriate wiggle or jiggle. I don't care if it's two blocks down to get an ice cream cone, risk knows not the difference between two blocks or twenty miles. I could go on to point out a zillion scenarios and "what if's." Dear well meaning Auntie needs to plan on four or five more years before she can be Fun-Take you-For-A-Ride Auntie. And that's talking about the four year old nephew, not the new niece. Anonymous I can understand your wanting to include your niece/nephew as passengers when you ride, but in my opinion, children of such a young age do not belong on a motorcycle. Riding as a passenger as you well know, is also a learned skill. I don't think passengers get the credit they deserve for also being the 'brave ones' who put their trust in the driver. Not only that, it also puts more stress on the driver having to be responsible for another person other than himself. I have seen many a few children (not many) older than your own niece/nephew on the back of motorcycles squirming around, their heads bobbing with the weight of the helmets and their feet kicking and dangling -- a horror scenario waiting to happen, especially in a quick response situation. As "Mama" said, the risk is great and it really depends on how much of a risk and responsibility you are willing to take. Aside from finding suitable equipment for the bike to make it possible, I would consider the other factors which come into play.Good luck in your decision. Tempe in NJ Although
I dont have an answer my husband and I have struggled with the same
issues. When we became parents four years ago (and #2 is on the way), we were
afraid our riding time was going to be drastically reduced (and limited to one
or the other of us, but not together an activity we enjoy). I had a hard
time accepting that, so we bought a Ural (750cc) with a sidecar, and initially
rode with me AND son in the sidecar. Last spring my husband installed a racing
harness (like you see in stock cars) in the sidecar to keep movement to a
minimum. By then our son was old enough to understand some general rules (and
hed been familiarized by riding with me) that we felt comfortable riding on
county roads and back roads in our somewhat rural area (although we have done NO
highway riding with him). I asked one of the local dealers last summer
about a riding harness. My understanding is that it hooks the child to the
driver (as opposed to hooking the child to the motorcycle). They did confirm
there was such a thing (made by Bell
Industries for $29.95), but I never followed up on that or saw one with my
own eyes. That said, I would be very hesitant to take
my son as a passenger on a cruiser until Im SURE he wont do anything
dangerous or fall asleep. The big question is, at what age is that? Six? Eight?
Likely it depends on the child, their maturity level, and their exposure
to/familiarity with motorcycles. (In that regard, our son may have a leg-up!)
Maybe Ill have more insight in another four years! I know with my husband and I, we won't let our grandkids ride until they can easily and firmly touch the passenger pegs as they help to stabilize a passenger if you have to do any quick maneuver, e.g. avoiding a pothole, let alone a emergency maneuver. Make sure your state doesn't have a minimum passenger age [this is the AMA site's directory, please check specifically with your state's DMV]. And please, even if you find a sidecar that says it can safely carry a child safety seat, make sure they have the proper DOT certificates. There's nothing wrong with making the children wait until their big enough. Ride Safe, Jen There is a child safety deal that you can strap the child to you. I believe that is is sold in the Canadian Motovan catalog. When I use to take my niece out, we did it in safe controlled older neighborhoods where the speeds are slower cus grandmas and grandpas live there. V45 Check your state and local laws on this it will vary from state to state it is illegal to transport children under a certain age on motorcycles in most states (and that would include 3 wheeled trikes or sidecars). They cite the following reasons: the lack of protection equipment (specifically helmets) in small sizes, the state requirements for child safety seats (and not being able to secure those seats properly on a motorcycle) and the lack of understanding of the dangers and what is needed of the rider to help make the ride safe. Amy in Washington (note from Mama: lots of good cautionary and practical information was shared . . . thanks to one and all.) Wednesday, January 17 For Michelle who wants to learn motorcycle maintenance and repair as a career: I am very sorry about your father's passing but it sounds like you have many good memories of him to keep with you. You sound like a very capable and determined woman to me, congratulations on getting your license! You may not be able to go the the repair institute right now but if you are just wanting to learn some basic repairs for a motorcycle, check with a local community college. A lot of them offer a course and at a reasonable price, it's a start at least. I have no doubt that with your determination you will be able to achieve what you want. Good luck and keep trying. Camilla (note from Mama: thanks for the reminder about community college courses and letting Michelle know that pursuing goals is always a good thing!) Wednesday, January 17 Hi
Petra, The only thing that I really dislike about the bike is the heel shifter. There are times that I'm doing just great, then my foot starts hitting the rear of the floorboard and shifts me into another gear. THIS is not good when traveling up a concrete drive that is very steep. I nudged her down into first to start the dreaded climb up the drive when I obviously heeled it into second gear, which lead me into a stall, trying to knock it back down into first, it was just too late, the grade of hill, the weight, me feeling a little panic and there being no footing to the left of me, I was gone. Before I knew it, I was going down, I hear the concrete against my bike as I was (in slow motion) falling my 5'3", 200 pound butt into a ravine. Needless to say, I looked and felt like a huge turtle on it's back, legs and arms wailing around. My first fear -- the bike would slide on off the drive and land on me, now I'm 50 years old (not saying anything about being overweight) and just don't move too fast. My head was lower than my feet and I just couldn't get out of the ravine, like I said, a turtle, get a visual here, it's not a pretty sight. Thank goodness, it's 6:30 in the afternoon and dark, no one in sight. I wasn't hurt, bruised a little and more sore than anything. The bike, well, broken tail light, scared up highway bar and the mirror is a little disfigured, but other than that we're okay. My husband said, well, it just adds character to her. Now this has been said, my question . . . can that crazy heel shifter come off, cut off, unscrew off, anything? I think that I would have less trouble if it were out of my life. Safe Riding, Lee Ann Miles Dear
Lee Ann, According to postings on the Delphi VStar 650 forum (it's highly active, you need to register, but well worth it!), I found references to your question in the Do It Yourself & Fixes section . . . yes, the heel part can be cut off without affecting any part of the shifting sequence. Several tools (hacksaw, saws-all, dremel) to do this were mentioned, just be careful, and VStarBob mentioned you might want to clean up the cut with a file or bench grinder and then use a little paint to touch up the cut. The question about whether it can be completely removed and just a standard shifter added did not net any answers. In a previous letter, Bootygrandma noted that older VStars could not be retrofitted with a heel/toe shifter because of how the kickstand was oriented to the frame, but this leaves me wondering if the reverse is true. A call to the local dealer's parts department should get you an answer pretty quickly. I'll simply note that often times, the floorboard system is totally integrated with the heel/toe shift system, so a change out is not always straightforward. Mama Thursday, January 18 For Lee Ann who oopsied on a steep hill and wonders about the heel/toe shifter: I was just wondering if the problem may be with shifting, rather than the shifter. I would think going up a steep driveway slowly, you would have to shift and accelerate pretty quickly to stay upright. Maybe she just need some practice with shifting and being in the proper gear prior to going up the driveway. I just had floor boards and a heal/toe shifter installed on my bike last week and love it. Found I can shift even faster, and it makes for a more comfortable ride. Just a thought, hope it helps. Carole (note from Mama: there's no doubt that a steep hill can get the best of use if we're not paying attention or not practiced enough . . . at least Lee Ann has info to consider for her next step, including your thoughts!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Satinx, Triking a motorcycle comes in two basic flavors: either add a conversion kit in which you don't remove the rear wheel (MTC Voyager and Tow-Pac) or have a company remove the rear-end of the bike and put a new back-end on. The first is less expensive and the kit can be removed at any time should you wish to two-wheel ride or sell as separate units. The second will cost more and there are less alternatives in finding companies who are ready to do this (for an auto tranny bike). Still, it's doable in a number of cases, many of which are chronicled on my Trikes pages. Once you narrow down your choice in motorcycle and have taken a look at the less expensive option, if necessary, I probably can get you in contact with people who have specifically triked a particular model. Just get your basic research started and then write in again. Of course, it's possible you'll find a used auto tranny trike on the market, and with the main bike model names on hand, this search will be a bit easier. Welcome to the adventure and happy shopping! Mama Monday, January 22 Hi Mama, Dear
Me Help, Then, always remove the negative lead first, then the positive lead (and the opposite when reinstalling). Standard lead/acid batteries have windows to each of the six cells so that you can see if the fluid level in each cell is ok (minimum and maximum). Sometimes you need to shine a flashlight at the battery to see the fluid. Only used distilled water to refill a cell to the correct level. If a cell is completely empty, you can fill it and try a recharge, but you may not be able to save this battery. Some motorcycles have gel batteries . . . they are sealed and all you can do is try a recharge. Be aware that a car charger is not a great idea, and battery chargers for bikes are available for both standard and gel batteries. I got mine at Wal-Mart. In the future, if your motorcycle is going to sit for months at a time, you've got two options: 1) fire the bike and let it run at least once a week or 2) get a self-charger that keeps the battery up-to-charge (like a Battery Tender). This saves costly battery replacement. I'll add that motorcycles with those lovely built-in clocks and such are always using a bit of battery power . . . so it's especially important to keep an eye on things. Mama Monday, January 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Silversurfer, I would start by talking with your dealer's service department. They should be able to tell you what the factory did and then what they did getting your bike ready for you. Then talk to them about your initial miles and how you rode the bike to see what they have to say. Again, I would be surprised if you did anything wrong. To me, it's super important that you keep your eye on fluid levels as the parts begin wear-in. That means checking after each ride . . . main oil level, tranny oil level (if separate), and brake fluids. If your bike is water-cooled, then a check there is also necessary. I'd also be re-reading your limited one-year warranty policy. In some cases, for the warranty to "hold," you must be able to demonstrate that basic maintenance checks at recommended mileages are followed. For most, that first check-up is at around 600 miles. A service manual specific to your year/make/model will detail what needs to be done or you can simply estimate about when you'll hit that first service mark and get an appointment with the dealer lined-up (this time of year, they may not be as busy, but you never know what the lead-time for an appointment is). Typically that first service is about a complete oil and filter change and checking that everything is tightened up. Talk it out and then you'll be informed! I'm wishing you many happy miles on that beautiful bike! Mama Monday, January 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, The week after we came home I was to take my safety course. I was terrified. I was determined to make it work. I passed my course and got my license. I bought a 250 Alpha Sport. The first ride was terrifying, but it gets easier each time. I am now comfortable enough to ride alone. My husband and I now enjoy riding together and I am thinking of getting a bigger bike . . . a VStar 650 or Suzuki Boulevard next year. I will never forget the accident and I still have some problems with my neck as a result of the accident, but fear can be overcome!!!! I will be 60 next month and look forward to some good riding this summer. Mary Dear
Mary, Monday, January 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, I came around a tight turn not tight enough, shifted into second and was on the wrong side of the road. (as you can see there was NOTHING I did right!). I ended up on the far side of the road heading into a pole. So I laid her down. I didn't really want to see how far my head would bend that pole since this is a road I travel on daily and those are not the memories I'm trying to make right now. To make matters worse I was in walking distance to my house. A very nice man and his wife stopped to see if I was ok, aside from my pride and a broken finger nail (can you imagine) I was fine. Now I had to get the bike up. If you think I looked stupid with a bike sleeping on the wrong side of the road, you should have seen me trying to call my husband with my helmet still on and forgetting I'm not on speaker phone. OY, do the mistakes ever end?? The nice people went around the corner to get him but he was on his way over. Since I only got the bike yesterday, and he told me he never wanted to get THE phone call that I was hurt and I dumped the bike. Well, guess what honey? Who knew in less than 24 hours that he would get that call. When he turned that corner and he saw me standing and yes I had the bike up already (on my own, thank you VTM and adrenaline) this man had tears in his eyes. He pictured me on the corner hurt and crying. But, he walked up to me and smiled, kissed me and then congratulated me. Can you imagine? I wasn't announcing I was pregnant, idiot, I just dumped my brand new bike! He was proud of the fact that I dumped her and my legs weren't underneath her, I wasn't crying :-) and I was sitting on her to get her going again. As I rode away, I told him he has to pay for another manicure. Since I'm addicted to VTM.com, I know what I did wrong, and knew I had to get right back on her! Thank you to VTM and all of the other women who share their good and bad experiences . . . it does help. So if anyone can tell me how to do a "safe" dump and not break a nail, that would be more helpful information for me!!! Suzy Dear
Suzy, And now, by sharing your first-hand account, you are helping the next person to understand that the oopsies happen and can be overcome, just like previous letters helped you maintain perspective (a word I seem to be using a lot today!). A new manicure is a small price to pay for learning something important about your adventure in riding! Mama Tuesday, January 23 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Skippii, Tuesday, January 23 Hi
Petra, |
