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Jitters Home
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2006 (January through May) Dear
VTwin Mama, I am debating lowering the front, due to mixed opinions told to me. I admit the bike looks bigger now it is at my house, but get it up straight with ease. I am so excited to ride it. My male friend put 50 miles on it, with me on the back. I admit I am a little fearful, but do well on the Buell. I have several female friends that are smaller than me and started on Harley Dyna Wide and Heritage Softail. One dropped hers x2. Harley Naples said I can rent a smaller bike discount a couple weekends, if I desire. I appreciate any tips you have. I am told not to "Fred Flintstone" when I start and stop or I will fall, and to keep front wheels always straight. Thanks, Tressa Johnson in Naples, Florida Dear
Tressa, As to your new bike, the common consensus is that if you lower the rear of a bike a significant amount (IMHO, more than an inch), the front end should be lowered as well, to keep the "aspect angle" between front and back in line with the original angle. I would double check with the dealer on how much that rear end is being lowered and what they would recommend so that the handling characteristics are maintained. I can appreciate that the new bike is looking awfully big, and with the added realization that people drop bikes, it's taking on monumental scary significance. The basic thing is this: you should always stop a bike with the wheels in a straight line whenever possible. The biggest reason people fall while stopping is that they stop on a curve/turn using the front brake, because the front brake will pull a bike down to the side its leaning towards. This is just a part of how a bike "works." So in a straight line stop, 75% of your braking power is in the front brake, and you use both brakes for a controlled stop. In a curve stop, you feather the back brake gently to bring the bike to a controlled stop (if you jam on it, it will start to skid out from underneath you), but if you're going fast in a curve and need to stop fast, then gauge if you have time to straighten the wheels so you have use the front brake without pulling you down. I know this is a lot to take in right now, but the bike is counting on you to learn the specific commands to give it so that it can do what you want it to do! Yes, after finishing the course, you may want to locate or rent a smaller bike, take it to an empty parking lot, and do some practice drills. On the other hand, you have a friend that could ride that bike to a safe practice lot (schools, churches, anywhere with few distractions and obstacles) and you could begin your practice with the Harley in the same way. Put together a battle plan on exactly what you would like to work on in each practice session so that you don't get overwhelmed or too tired to be safe. That's the key! This is the time to take baby steps and realize that a lifetime of wonderful riding begins by respecting the bike and yourself. Mama Wednesday, January 4 Dear VTwin Mama, My problem was I took the motorcycle safety class and a woman wrecked her bike right in front of me and was severely injured. But my real problem is I tried to ride, but could not get my coordination of braking, clutching, shifting all together at the same time. I was very surprised because I have been driving 5-speed cars since I was 16. I am thinking VERY seriously about buying a Ridley, automatic transmission bike in 2006. Have you rode one? If so, what do you think, do you like them? Do you think an uncoordinated lady can ride one? I really want and need to do this so bad. Don't want to turn 60 and not accomplish this goal. What do you think? Becky Dear
Becky, First of all, you're relatively young . . . we've had letters from women in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s who either started or got back in the adventure of riding. So you're a young 'un! Still, you're old enough (darn that whole wisdom thing) to realize that not everything we set out to accomplish is going to be easy. To quote a line in the movie A League of Their Own . . . "The hard is what makes it great." There is no shame in bypassing the whole "clutch thing" if that's what you truly believe in your heart is the right course of action for you. Previous letters on the Ridley auto tranny bikes are posted on my Auto Tranny pages. Or, if you want to hold out for a year or so, there is news that manufactures are coming out with electric shift bikes that can bypass the clutch action or be set into a manual shift. But why not consider another pathway? I mean, think back on what it took you to really learn to handle that stick shift car well . . . it surely wasn't instantaneous. And while knowing a car's system is a help in learning to ride, it still takes practice to coordinate a different set of hands/feet on a bike. You don't say how long ago you took that riding course, but perhaps it warrants some more thought. If your finances allow it, why not check into getting a used 250cc bike that you could practice on?! Or perhaps you know someone who will loan one to you for some practice sessions. Many women have taken the course, learned they needed more work on skills, gone out and got a small bike for some practice time, and then went back to the course. This is not unusual and well worth it according to these ladies. I can appreciate the horror of watching someone get hurt while taking the course, but with riding comes risk, whether you choose a standard bike or an auto tranny bike. If you've ever read something about a person getting hit while crossing a street, does this mean you'll never cross a street again? Of course not, but it does force you to think about how you cross a street yourself and perhaps choose safer street-crossing options. Is this "thought" what is propelling you into considering an auto tranny bike? Dig deep for the honest answer to yourself. Ok, so that's some food for thought. I suggest that you find yourself a few local women riding mentors so that you're not "out there" all alone. Why not contact local chapters of women's riding organizations and say hi, introduce yourself, ask for help, and talk it out some more with women who have been where you are now! Their help will be invaluable as you continue to pursue your dream of riding. Trust me, it makes a difference! Mama Friday, January 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, A couple of weekends after I finally got out of the neighbor hood my hubby and I took a couple of day trips which totaled to be around 320 miles. Whooo-Hooo! What an experience! I drove in traffic around town for the first time. Did that on a fri. Then sat. we rode out of town 150 miles or so and I got on the interstate for the first time. A little scary but once I got on and got off I was fine. I had feared the merging into the traffic as well as getting off on a deep curve, but I made it! I got to drive in heavier traffic and it was good experience for me however it did make me pretty nervous when we were in the left turn lane and the signal light never changed. We sat through it several times. I figured the cars behind us would start honking. With my husbands signal we both took off and made our left hand turn. We finally went back home and went via little country roads. It was at night which made me pretty nervous but at the same time it was strangely peaceful and very enjoyable! The next day we headed out for another country ride as did half of the motorcycle community. It was an absolutely gorgeous day even with it being so windy. Saw lots of biker waves but I still continue to just nod and raise my left hand fingers without my hand leaving the handlebar. I think I'll wait awhile on the real biker wave, but it was all pretty exciting. We road all through the beautiful hilly country side and finally made it back home that evening...dead tired, especially after fighting the wind all day. Needless to say I felt very proud that evening and certainly had no trouble going to sleep! I still have work to do on my left and right hand turns and quick stops. I'm afraid of having to stop quickly at a light. I just hope that it turns red way before I get to the light instead of when I'm just getting to the light. Thanks for everyone's good advice and support. Cindy/Beamer Dear
Cindy, An intelligent rider always knows that you only do "optional" things like the biker wave to a level that is compatible with the rider's experience level and what's going on in the ride . . . for instance, in a twisty higher speed ride portion, I'll won't remove my hand, but will nod if I can "afford" the break in concentration to handle the twisty. Safety first! Your turns will get better with time! And you know what I'll say about your worries about quick stops . . . get yourself to a distraction free area to practice, practice, practice! Straight line quick stops first. It's really about using both the front and rear brakes to bleed off speed, then downshift to let engine bleed off speed, and repeat the brake/downshift until the controlled quick stop is accomplished! Quick stop on curves . . . back brake only (lightly) and more downshift (and quick assessment if a straighter line can be taken). Congrats on all of your accomplishments so far . . . it's only been 5 weeks since you first wrote abut getting out of the neighborhood and this follow-up letter is one of pure inspiration! Mama Tuesday, January 31 Dear VTwin Mama, I had the 2006 Heritage Softail Classic front and back lowered as you suggested (came with standard easy clutch). I can now use my feet flat to walk it back and forward. This is very important. I am riding parking lots and back streets until I am secure to be out in the Naples, Florida traffic. My bike is 750 pounds. I was offered (by Harley Davidson in Naples) a smaller Harley Bike to rent (a Sportster), but declined. The Buell I learned on was top heavy at 300 pounds. My big bike is low and centered, much easier, but bigger. I have learned that the engine guard bar does work and the motorcycle does not fall clear sideways like a bicycle. I was able to use my leg muscles (facing away from the bike) to push it up and get the kickstand down, as I read on your site. I had turned back (left) to look at a truck as it fast approached behind me. I now have learned to not to look where you do not want to go, and keep the front tire straight on a stop. I am getting the figure 8 better, and bringing in the wide left turns I tend to make. The key is "slow, look, press the handlebar, and roll" around the corner. Stopping and starting is no problem. Using both brakes is also very important, and feathering the back brake on a curve stop with front straightened up. I also looked for a brighter colored jacket, such as the orange and off white at the top with black at the bottom I now have. I want the cars to see me. Yes ladies, I have struggled. But, I am now doing the parking lots and back streets. Practice makes perfect. Soon it will be the highways. Thanks for all your help. This is an awesome site. Tressa from Naples, Florida Dear
Tressa, Yes, some lessons are learned the hard way, but boy, I can tell you that they stick with you forever then! That you had read up on how to pick up a bike was excellent and served you well . . . I'm betting that your confidence in yourself soared when you handled the situation! You've got a wonderful year ahead of you and I'm sure a biker wave will be coming your way very soon! Mama Monday, February 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Patty, It's not unusual to feel jitters now that you are on the road all by your lonesome, and by that I mean, no matter if you're riding with someone, you're a solo rider now! And that's just different! The fact is that you are no longer under the watchful eye of an instructor or in a "safe" zone. The key is practice, and the best place to get this is an empty parking lot (like a church lot or school parking lot, etc.). You need to go, set up practice cones (or tennis balls cut in half, or something else "squishy," and keep working on your beginning skills. The more you master the basics, the more confident you will be in venturing out onto the roads. Set up your markers to mimic traffic situations, like intersections, etc. and get your stops/starts under control. Do cone weaves and box turns until you're blue in the face and get a true sense of the bike and how it handles . . . becoming one with the beastie is an absolute must if you wish to become an accomplished rider. While you're planning out these practice sessions, plan out your first road rides. Best suggestion ever: map out a street ride in your car first, noting obstacles, potential tricky spots, and things you'll need to navigate. Keep it short and simple. Go over the route many times in the car, picturing yourself on the bike. Then choose a light traffic morning (early Sundays are good) with a destination in mind, like a restaurant for breakfast, as your reward, and go for it! Do not worry if it takes you a week or several weeks to get to the point where you're ready to venture out on your first true road ride. Set up your battle plan, gauge how you're doing and how it feels, adjust the schedule, but by all means, keep moving forward with baby steps . . . and you will get there! I TOTALLY believe in your ability to do it! As you take on more and more, don't forget that my Riding Techniques section is available to you . . . here, previous letters on additional techniques, like curves and turns, hills, etc. are posted and you can pick up hints and tips. And you'll find that YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, I have mounted the bike on several occasions, but as soon as I'm on I feel vulnerable to the surrounding traffic and get an almighty sick feeling in my gut that I have to get straight back off. Today I spent two hours next to the bike while my boyfriend tried to coax me on. Didn't work. Now I feel like a plum. I want to get on so bad, but just cannot. Do you have any tips for how I can overcome this? I think my main problems are that so many people have given me advise on what to/not do when on the back that I'm just plain confused. Some people have advised me to use the grab rail at the back, I don't feel comfortable doing this as I'm quite small, some people have advised me to touch the tank under braking, this is impossible as I can't reach the tank. My partner says just hold on to his hips.. Can you see my confusion? I guess the other biggy is being so vulnerable to other road users and fearing that I may cause my partner to crash the bike. Please help me, I want more than anything to get on the back and go ride . . . Carrie in Derbyshire, UK Dear
Carrie, Now, on to advice despite the fact that you've gotten a snoot full already! You mentioned the horror of traffic as one source of concern (vulnerability) and my immediate thought is this: how about if you drive your car and your boyfriend rides the bike far enough out into a "country" setting, even if it means going 60km . . . whatever it takes. An early Sunday morning would probably be the least amount of traffic time. Choose a meeting place that has a big open, flat paved area. Here, you could get on the bike together, ride around the lot for awhile undisturbed, then venture out a bit. If necessary, get in the car and preplan the whole meeting place, country road route, and reward (maybe a cute little store or restaurant you've been meaning to go to!). Preplanning is a time-honored tradition that many new solo riders use to minimize the jitters, so I'm thinking you would benefit from it as well. As a pillion rider, your main job is this: don't wiggle around on the seat, don't turn your head and shoulders that would move your entire body position, and don't lean "extra" into curves . . . just keep a nice, straight-forward profile. Talk it out with your boyfriend . . . communication is the key! While you're doodling around in the parking lot with no distractions, decide for yourself where you feel most comfortable securing yourself, whether that's hands on hips, etc. As the two of you venture out, keeping the speed down at first (talk that out as well!), double check your feelings on your hand grip. You mentioned that you are concerned that you could cause a crash. Ok, let's drill down a little deeper. It's a silly-type analogy, but you've read about people getting hurt or killed while crossing a street, yet that doesn't keep you from crossing a street, does it? That's something you've been doing for a long time, and you know that the chances of it happening to you are minimal. Now, the bike. You lost riding friends, so are you worried that something you do on the back of the bike is going to cause a crash, or are your worries more general . . . my friends died, will that happen to me and/or my boyfriend (together or him riding alone)? My best advice is to find a quiet time, take out a pen and piece of paper, and jot down every feeling that comes to mind without censorship. Every good thing, every bad thing you feel about motorcycles and riding. Get it out. Commit it to paper. Don't worry about the order in which you write it down, just let it stream out of your gut. Trust me on this, you won't believe the difference it makes. Share it with your boyfriend if you wish. In all of this, remember that not everyone is meant to ride on a bike . . . and life events shape how we perceive things . . . so even if you give it your best shot, and you can't get past the jitters, then say so and make peace with it. I know how much you want to share this with your boyfriend, but my guess is that there are other things you can do together . . . how fun it would be to find a new adventure that the two of you can learn and experience together. Now, as I know you really want to give riding your best try, go write down the baby steps you think make the most sense for you . . . hopefully I've given you some ideas to help shape the "plan." My deepest hope is that you'll soon be sending me a picture of the two of you and the bike, with a huge grin on both of your faces! No matter what happens, YOU ARE NOT ALONE in your feelings, and if I've learned anything, it's that honesty with oneself is the most important thing in life. It will carry you to the places you were meant to travel. Mama Monday, February 13 For Carrie, a pillion rider, who is struggling with massive jitters: My heart goes out to Carrie. Way before I had jitters
about riding my bike, I had jitters about getting on the back with my
husband. I was reluctant to go with him, but I sure didn't want to be left
behind at home. He brought his first bike home in the winter, so I had
plenty of time to stew about it. I had trouble sleeping. Every time I
closed my eyes, I could see us slamming into the back of a car on the
freeway and then someone slamming into us from behind. Pretty graphic,
huh? Surely some of this stemmed from an accident that I was in when I was
16. It was a minor accident, followed by a family squabble, lots of
misplaced guilt, and a moratorium on motorcycles. I got on the back of a
bike a couple times after that, but not much. On the other hand, sometimes uncontrollable fear could
be trying to tell you something. Could it be the way your boyfriend rides
that helps perpetuate your fears? Tuesday, February 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, I got my '88 Suzuki Savage about 2 yrs ago and put about 600 miles on it. I felt I was ready to move up and came home with a beautiful '99 HD Hugger. I have rode it in the driveway a few times so far (just got it last weekend). It is a bit intimidating, I have had some experience with an old Sportster ironhead (but not very good ). I do love this bike, it fits me well. I am 5'2" and 120 lbs. I just have to work on believing I can ride it and I know I can. Thanks again for all the encouragement on this site. It gives us all hope. Lisa Dear
Lisa, Congrats on the newest bike and glad to hear that you're already feeling the "fit" . . . now it's a matter of becoming one with the beastie. And you know what that means . . . practice! Each bike handles differently in starts, stops, tight turns, curves, etc. When I got my latest bike last June, I put myself through the paces in an empty parking lot with course markers and practiced friction zone control, cone weaves and box turns. And of course I worked on my high speed straights and curves carefully, testing out the countersteering response level, back brake feathering, brake combinations, and quick down shifting capabilities . . . all to see how this bike handled. You know you can do it and the collective sisters who read this site know you can do it! Just remember, it's fun to learn and learning is always a good thing! Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, But with spring approaching, I am feeling fairly ready to go to the road ways. My problem? Speed. The fastest I have been is 35 and that feels fast to me. I feel totally out of control. How will I ever be able to keep up with traffic? I have never been a fast driver in a cage anyway. I will go the speed limit or perhaps 5 over. I just can't see myself going 55 to 60 on a bike. Help! I will worry and fret if I hold up traffic. My husband rides and I know he usually does 10 over the speed limit. I just know I won't be able to keep up and really am not that worried about keeping up. But I DO worry about going 40 to 45 and making drivers angry. I just don't see that much on the forums about riders being afraid of going the speed limits. Am I weird or just a scardy cat? Thanks. PS. I want to go to Myrtle Beach this spring so bad!! Joan Dear
Joan, In order to meet the challenge you'll need to more clearly define, and say out loud, exactly what's at the core of the fear. I'm guessing it's not just the speed itself, but a consequence of the speed that's got you worried. I'd like to suggest some steps to help. First, I'm glad to hear that you have a perfect practice zone. Get on the back of your husband's bike and have him ride to that 35mph "demarcation line" on your fear. Then have him do more straight runs in additional 5mph increments so that you can get a sense of the speed as a passenger. Then, get on your bike and ride the straight line at 35mph with him on his bike, mimicking "traffic" in the next lane (or start slower so you can gauge your reaction having someone near to you). Get a sense of the "two lane" vehicle situation. Then increase the runs side-by-side in 5mph increments. Get a sense of the speed and how you feel. Then it's time to plan out your next steps. If you have taken the time to dig deep within yourself so that you can honestly say what you need to address, then you can devise a battle plan chart! Write down each step you'll add to each practice session and add a proposed "completion" date so that you don't overwhelm yourself, but move forward in your adventure in riding. Ok, you've got about 3 months to get up to speed for the Myrtle Beach Bike Week. You absolutely need to be able to handle normal highway speeds and dense traffic. If you BOTH decide that you're ready for that trip, hubby dearest can notch it down a bit so that you ride in a nice synchronized, staggered formation that keeps you together at all times. Do not attempt this rally if you have major doubts . . . depending on how far this trip will be, ask yourself if you'll be able to handle rain, high winds, etc., as trust me, these conditions could crop up and they can be a bear. Your safety is the most important thing . . . and there is no point to taking on such a big challenge if you're not ready. There will be other rallies, but there is only one you. Ultimately, and eventually, you will be the rider you wish to be. Take heart in that and be smart! Mama Monday, February 20 For Joan who has a fear of speed but wants to ride her Ridley with confidence: Your fear is natural to most new riders. One big point to remember when riding - no matter what your skill level is - IT IS ALWAYS OK TO SLOW DOWN OR STOP if you feel too uncomfortable with a situation. Work up to higher speed gradually and you will be fine. If your fear is due to feeling out of control, then you need to slow down and work at slow speed control and balance so you will feel confident at higher speeds. I highly recommend the Ride Like a Pro video to teach you how to maneuver your machine. And remember you have the additional perk of not having to shift gears while doing all the other things. Keep working on your skill level and don't try and rush it. The best way to learn to ride and improve your skill level is by spending time in the saddle, lots of time in the saddle. Dorathy Biddinger (note from Mama: your viewpoint as an instructor is much appreciated as you see many new riders struggle in the beginning. Those interested in the Ride Like a Pro videos, mention the VTwin Mama site and get $5 off the shipping/handling costs!) Joan's letter brought back some scary memories. When I
started out, getting up to 25 or 30 mph on the side streets felt fast. As they
stress in the MSF class, I considered each driveway an intersection and I was
still dealing with scoping out my surroundings, coordinating hands and feet,
AND my reaction times. I was also under pressure to "hurry up and
learn" so I could go on a trip from northern Alabama to Florida that
summer. It was just too much too soon. Monday, February 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, I took my first ride with my husband. There was a short turn, which I didn't make. My bike just literally laid down and I was just standing there! I have a hard time starting off making a left turn. Also, we live in a very hilly area and I cannot start off on a hill. I need to learn a technique for starting off on a hill. I find it very difficult. Trying not to use too much throttle is difficult for me and low speeds scare me. My first ride was 130 miles, but I was nervous, but made it through safely. Just the low speeds and left and right turns, but need some tips. Optimistic Dear
Optimistic, Hill starts do pose a special challenge, and my Riding Techniques: Hills/Inclines page has a wonderful archive of letters that detail the many ways of handling the situation. I'm sure you'll be able to formulate your own sequence of control handling by reading through those. Once you've got some more practice under your belt, you may want to take the MSF Experience RiderCourse, where you take your own bike, and under the watchful eyes of an instructor, polish those skills even more! Riding a motorcycle is a life-long pursuit of knowledge and learning. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Mama Tuesday, February 21 For Roz who was experiencing general jitters and trying to figure out what to do: Roz, you are not alone in your fear to ride. I have the same feeling. After learning to ride 1 1/2 years ago, I bought a brand new Vulcan 500. I only have over 200 miles on it. I too need a mentor. I lack the confidence, but I know my limitations. Here in Hawaii, there are very few large parking lots for me to practice on. I only have the confidence to ride in my neighborhood. I love my bike and long to ride around the Island. Don't give up girl, you're not alone!! Good luck and ride safe!! Ceci (note from Mama: check my Let's Ride page for VTwin Mama sisters in your area and email a hello! I can see that the main women's riding organizations don't have riding chapters in Hawaii, but there is an all woman group called Dangerous Curves Hawaii . . . while your riding level isn't ready for their group rides, you still may wish to make contact, meet up with at the start of one of their rides (even if you have to take the car), and introduce yourself. You may find a mentor that way. Just a thought.) Dear
VTwin Mama, Here's the problem: It's top heavy - very. A couple of times I dropped it because I couldn't stop it from falling once it started going down. Also, because of the way it lays on its side, I can't get it upright without another person helping, but we can save that problem for another day. I know the part about keeping the front wheel aligned when stopping, but sometimes it just isn't possible (at least for me). My confidence is a bit rattled and I'm now hesitant to ride alone. I don't want to live that way. Despite my best efforts, I seem to have bought the wrong bike for me. I'm up for trading this one in and getting a different bike, but need some help in trying to figure out the best bike for me. For all my research, talking w/sales reps and other riders, the significance of a bike's center of gravity never came up - I never even thought about it. Maybe I need to go with a smaller bike. Maybe I need one that is closer to the ground, but then I worry about cramping my legs. I just don't know what to think at this point . . . so HELP! Nerve-wracked in NY Dear
Nerve-wracked, First, congrats on learning to ride at the tender age of 50 and the two years of riding time you've got under your belt. That's sooooo VTwin Mama sister cool! You are not the only rider who has chosen a bike, spent time on it, and then realized it's not the perfect bike for you (in its current configuration). So, what's so great about that? Well, you now have significant riding time on not just one, but two bikes, and that puts you in excellent position to better judge your next steps. So, let's look at some steps together! Picking up a bike when it decides to "take a nap" is greatly aided by the addition of a crash bar (also called a highway bar or engine guard). It keeps the bike at an angle and then you can use proven one-woman pick-up techniques to handle the oopsie on your own. My Pick Up Your Bike page has links that show you how, step-by-step, with pictures. The reason I mention all of this (despite the fact that you noted it could be addressed another day) is that adding the bar/guard and practicing pick-up, is one of the most empowering and proven confidence builders of all time! Now I'm going to try to read between the lines in your letter (I'd use my crystal ball, but it's in the shop for a tune-up!) in regard to your stop/tumble combination. Yes, a rider should always stop in a straight line if possible, and here, the front brake provides the majority of the stopping power, but a light application of both brakes is useful. However, if you have to stop in a situation other than a straight line, then using the front brake has a tendency to pull the bike down at slow speeds, and feathering the rear brake (and no front brake at all) will tend to keep the bike upright during the braking. That is simply part of the handling characteristics of a motorcycle. Before completely giving up on your Vulcan, which you generally like, I'm hoping you'll take the time to go to a distraction-free practice zone (empty school or church parking lot could work), and polish your slow speed maneuvers till its completely under control. When I got my newest bike, I looked at the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies DVD, went to a practice lot, and put myself and the bike through slow maneuver paces. Boy, did I learn a lot about the particular handling characteristics of this bike and how to give the bike the proper "commands" for every conceivable combination of things! The DVD shows several women on big honking motorcycles working the moves, and proving that all things are possible! Even picking up a big bike! I'll add that you could have learned coping techniques on that GZ 250 that didn't require you to master the fine points, but it appears to be coming into play on the bigger bike. A bike's center of gravity is an interesting thing. It's not listed in the specifications and rarely discussed, in large part I think because . . . well, I'm not really sure (tarnations, when will my crystal ball be returned to me?!). A bike wants to travel in a straight line, and when "called upon" to handle a curve, it pivots around its COG. The higher the COG, the more work it takes to "command" the bike to do so. At higher speeds on a curved road, it means a more pronounced countersteer. At slow speeds, a higher COG makes less than perfect/ practiced riding techniques an even bigger deal (the beginning lean to a bike falling over comes from a higher point and is harder to "catch"). So, what do you think? For about $30, you could get the DVD and polish up the slow stuff and see if it makes all the difference in the world to you. Lots of women have written in to the VTwin Mama site, jumping for joy that upon getting the DVD and practicing, the gremlins have been banished! And it's a heck of a lot cheaper than taking a loss on the resale value of the bike. Now, I'm not saying that you shouldn't seriously consider looking at another bike. We're back to the fact that the Vulcan may not be right for you when all is said and done. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. The horrible realization is that often times, one must ride a bike for many miles before really getting a full sense of it. But how in the heck do you do that without buying a bike? It's truly the motorcycle conundrum of all times! Ok, it's time to go sit on bikes at dealerships again. But first, sit on your bike with the kickstand up, not running, clicked into first gear so it won't roll, your feet firmly planted, and lean your bike side to side and really concentrate on how the weight feels. Gentle leans at first, then deeper leans to the point your legs can hold. This may not be a perfect indicator of the COG, but its a darn close one! Also, really take a look at your arm/leg position/reach to controls. You know how it feels while riding, but look at the angles at a standstill. Do this before each time you go look at another model so that your memory is fresh on the feel. Then sit on other bikes and compare. And I mean all sizes, from the little 250cc bikes up to the mid-range (like your Vulcan) and even the more powerful ones (within your range of sensibilities). Lean, lean, lean. Reach, reach, reach. Compare, compare, compare. Take notes. Then, when you've noodled down your list of possibilities, ask for test rides, and if that's not possible (some dealers just don't do it!), then ask about renting for a day. You've got the riding time credentials to do this. See, all that riding time has come in handy! And here I am, not naming specific bike models. Take the same bike and put 50 women on it, and you'll get 50 sets of opinions! I know right now your confidence isn't the highest it's ever been, but I bet if you made a list of all the things that you have accomplished, can handle, and can do right (wonderful dazzle stuff!), it's a longer list than the things you're challenged with at this point (the frazzle stuff!). Now take a deep breath and decide if you could use some skill polishing and/or need to look at other bikes again. Stay in touch and report how it's going. There isn't a riding sister out there who is not wishing you the very best in your upcoming steps. They know you can do it, I know you can do it, and having come this far already, there's most definitely a kernel of knowledge deep in our gut that whispers, "I can do it!" Mama Wednesday, March 1 Dear Mama, I'm currently riding a 883 Sportster (converted to 1200) on a Voyager conversion kit, which is working quite well for me. Still, I frequently think back to my original motorcycle safety course and wonder if, with re-training and practice, I could learn to ride without the extra wheels. I'd rather not try it on the Sportster, though! I'm considering shopping for a small learner's bike and giving it another try. Do you or the other readers have any recommendations for ways to do this without spending a lot of money? What size and model would be best? How small of a bike can I learn on and still expect the basic skills to transfer to the Sportster? The first time I tried this I went from the Motorcycle Safety Class to a Kawasaki 550 which I drove into the ditch the second or third time I was out on it! Obviously, I'd prefer to avoid repeating that experience! My hubby and riding partner is a bit freaked out that I'd like to try riding without the extra wheels, but in his defense he had to watch that first crash, so I guess it was pretty hard on him, too! Gila Dear
Gila, But what now? Well, you could buy any used 250cc bike for cheap (check the classified ads in your local paper) or you could even consider renting a bike that size (i.e. check into availability and cost and balance that against a purchase, but you'll have to gauge how much time you'll want to spend on it). Is that Kawi 550 still available to you (I'm not sure if it is your husband's bike, etc.). The point is that you definitely need to locate a paved, flat, distraction-free practice lot, like a church or school or business (obviously when the lot is basically not being used) that has wide open areas. Then, your hubby can ride that bike to the practice zone and you can plan out your practice sessions. Remember how you learned during your course? Do that sequence again on your own bike (whatever choice you make)! Even if you go back to a 250cc bike, each bike has it's own handling characteristics, so no matter what, I strongly advocate that you take each new bike back to the practice lot and put yourself and the bike through the paces. I did! And that's with 26 years of riding experience! So, that was a long-winded way of saying "get thee some practice in a safe zone." Then, and only then, you can plan out short rides "out and about," but even pre-plan those routes (by car) to take into account any nasty things that might goof you up. I'm thinking that if you and your hubby put together a practice battle plan that makes better sense, you'll be able to do this with confidence, and each positive step will lessen hubby's worries (as well as your own!). Soon you'll be able to remove the trike conversion and try that again. YOU CAN DO IT! Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Rebel Wanna-be, But not to worry, this too shall pass with a few simple adjustments. First, to get the right hand under control, start the bike, sit on it, and in neutral, practice pulling in the brake lever till you don't rev the throttle at the same time. Look at your wrist angle and correlate that to the combo demon. Practice, practice, practice. Also, in neutral, rev the throttle on purpose so that you get use to the "noise." Then, have hubbie ride that bike to an empty, nicely paved parking lot with plenty of room, and begin your first lessons there. Remember, the quickest way to remove power from the bike under any circumstances is to pull in the clutch lever with the left hand, thus disengaging the clutch and the power to the drive system. With the clutch disengaged, even if you accidentally roll the throttle while applying the brake, or get scared because you feel like you're going too fast, or are approaching an "icky" thing feeling out of control, it will just make a lot of noise, but not actually make you go anywhere. Now here is the most enlightening thing: you absolutely, positively, without a doubt . . . ARE NOT ALONE. That's right, your DNA has not twisted your being into a motorcycle rider wanna-be freak of nature. You simply scared the stuffing out of yourself and need to construct a better practice battle plan. Ok, off you go to do that! Mama Tuesday, March 14 For Rebel Wanna-be who is trying to learn to ride her Rebel: VTwin Mama's advice to is great; I'd just like to add that an approved course will give you all the skills you need to develop to ride safely. That was my route, starting on a Rebel and moving up recently to a 600 Shadow VLX, and it has been very successful for me. Good Luck! Ugogirl (note from Mama: an absolutely solid suggestion!) Friday, March 17 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Det, What's your budget/savings account look like? I'm thinking you must have some money saved up because in taking the step to get your learners permit, you most likely were already considering a bike purchase (sooner than later). Or am I getting this wrong? While the original plan might have been to get your practice time in on the boyfriend's bike in order to get your license and then buy your own, you may now wish to rethink this. I'd be checking the local ads for a thoroughly used bike that runs ok . . . now. Who cares if it's banged up (exterior looks). Then you would be free to proceed with practice sessions with more confidence. When you're ready, sell that bike and move up to one you really want. It's an extra step, but gosh, it's worth it. Jitters are a nasty little bug and confidence lost at the outset of an adventure is hard to get back. Otherwise I would strongly advise that you take a motorcycle riding course. Check my Learn to Ride a Motorcycle page for national and local listings. Here you would you be able to get accredited instruction, demonstrate to yourself (most important) and to your boyfriend that you not only can handle a standard bike on pavement, but can learn the skills necessary for riding. Again, in a heart-to-heart, would this be a step that would help your boyfriend overcome his worries? Talk it out. Sometimes we do start out thinking things will go one way, and they turn out differently than expected. That's ok . . . given the "new" dynamic of the situation, forge a new battle plan and get on with it! Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Well my husband surprised me a 2006 HD 1200 Low Sportster this past weekend. He had the dealer put lower shocks and lower the forks (I hope this is the right way to say it) for my height; I am 52 and 120 pounds. I can get my feet on the ground but Im still not flat footed. I have been researching a new seat and have the LePera in mind to get my feet on the ground. My problem is I am very intimated by this bike and after reading some of the opinions about the bike I am a bit more scared." I was sitting on it Thursday night after we got it home and all of a sudden it started leaning and I tired to correct it and it went the other way and fell. My husband assured me it was ok and this is something that happens to new and experienced riders alike. Of course he was very concerned if anything was broke. I was heartbroken to say the least. He said he had dropped his first bike a few times and it happened because he lost his balance. He now has a Fat Boy and says he has came close a few times. It didnt make me feel any better and I know he feels bad for me. He assures me if I take the course and Practice, Practice, Practice, I will learn to love the bike. I am so scared it makes me sick to think he spent all that money and now it might just sit there and look good. Will I make his dream come true and ride next to him someday? Or will I continue to be the lady on the back? I am one of those gals who when I set my mind to it I go for it and until I master it. Its just now after I dropped it I am very intimated. I know the class will help a great deal and I am excited and looking forward to taking it. VTwin Mama, do you have any words of encouragement and are there other women out there who have been in my shoes? Tami Dear
Tami, Each letter I receive about initial oopsies makes my heart ache as I too remember my first days. Of course now I get to chuckle at myself and share "me too" stories around the campfire and in this forum. Hubby dearest deserves a big hug for not overreacting to a small thing, and everything he said is absolutely what I would say to you. So, take the course and learn, learn, learn, and please don't take it with a "trial by fire" fear. This is a chance to gain knowledge and whatever you learn you will come away with a greater understanding. Some women even take the course twice, some because the first time showed them they had more to learn, and in some cases, although they passed, realized they would benefit greatly from more practice under the watchful eye of an instructor. As to the bike that waits for you (please think of it as patience and not a demon fire breathing monster), I'm thinking that a new seat will probably resolve your foot-to-ground challenge, but remember to take another look at your riding boot choice as a little bit more heel here could make all the difference. While you're waiting for the course, why not have your husband walk around the bike with you, reviewing the controls and where the routine maintenance is done (sparks plugs, filters, fuses, etc.). Trust me on this, your bike wants to be one with you, and this is an excellent starting point so that the bike is less of a mystery overall. If you wish to conquer your initial oopsie, have your husband straddle the front tire and grab hold of the handlebar, so that you can sit on the bike and get a feel of rolling it slightly and that lean weight again. This time though, he'd be there with a helping hand! If you haven't done so already, why not go pillion on your own bike to start getting a feel for the power and handling of it. Yes, a pillion rider does get something out of it! Of course, once you pass the course, it will be on to practice, and an empty, distraction-free parking lot is the best place to go through the exact same steps you took during the course. Slowly but surely you will begin to develop your own insights into this bike and how it feels to you. Then you'll be in position to engage in a thoughtful review about the bike and what you wish for the future. One day you are going to send in a picture of you and the bike with such a huge grin on your face and the words, "I'm actually doing it, I'm actually riding, I'm actually enjoying it, I can't believe I dropped it at the start, but that's just part of my right to brag now." I look forward to that email! Mama Wednesday, March 29 For Tami who is starting her adventure with some misgivings: I certainly know how she feels. My husband bought me a Sportster 1200 late last summer after I took the MSF course. Before taking the course I had only been a passenger on a bike and even that was over 25 years ago! Needless to say I was super nervous but passed the course without any problem. Then came the hard part. I took my first ride down our road on my new Sportster and dropped it in a slow turn (thank goodness no damage). I find the front end to be extremely heavy and I'm sure a lot of my problem is lack of experience in handling the bike. I am 5' 5" and with boots, I am flat footed. I too feel very intimidated with the Sportster, mainly because of the weight of the front end. Anyway, after that incident, I decided I would start on a smaller bike. For the course I was on a 125 so I bought a Suzuki Maurader 250. Great little bike. I practiced nearly every night on our road during September and October and by the end of October/November, I managed to go for some rides on the highway and through some subdivisions. We live in the country so highway riding is necessary to go anywhere. Over the winter I sold the 250 and bought a Vulcan 500. I am going to take the MSF course again in a few weeks, as a refresher after the winter season, and then I will start off this riding season on the Vulcan. Hopefully, once I am comfortable with Vulcan, I can move up to the Harley. May even change the seat and have it lowered to change the centre of gravity. For me, baby steps seems to be more appropriate as I want to learn proper control and skills before taking on "my monster". Riding in a straight line is a piece of cake but with cars, corners, hills, etc, I want to make sure I know what I am doing first. I am nervous enough on the smaller bikes for now. I am just so amazed and impressed with those who can start off on Harleys. Wish I could but my Harley will just have to sit and look pretty for now (not that my husband doesn't take it out for a change from his Dyna Low Rider). My husband also says that I will love the Sportster once I get used to it and that it handles really well once it is going. You have a great website. I check it out every night when I get home from work and it it reassuring to read that others are experiencing the same feelings and are having the same problems I am having as a "newbie" at 52 years of age! Your advice to take a course and practice, practice, practice is good sound advice. Keep up the great work and thanks for all the encouragement. DL in Canada (note from Mama: you are welcome and how wonderful of you to write in and let Tami know everything is possible with time!) Thursday, March 30 More for Tami who is starting her adventure with some misgivings: When I first got my bike, my husband did everything with it (moving it around, adjusting things, etc.), while I stayed in and tried to read the owner's manual. You know, like when you get a "new" car. It didn't help make me feel like the bike was mine though, making the whole thing that much scarier. Once I dropped it in practice, oh boy, the fear just multiplied. Doing things on your bike, like the simple task of washing it or shining up the chrome can go a long way in helping you feel like it's really yours, while helping to quell some of that fear of the bike. Take the owner's manual outside and find some things on the bike on your own. That makes it your accomplishment. I guess the familiarity makes it seem less foreign. After all, we fear the unknown. Linda C. (note from Mama: I like your idea of bike cleaning as a way to bond with a bike . . . in doing it, we become curious about parts and pieces and identify things we wish to learn about . . . putting the whole experience on a positive note rather a negative one.) Friday, March 31 Even more for Tami who is starting her adventure with some misgivings: Going on what Linda C said to Tami who is intimidated by her bike [that cleaning a bike is one way to get use to its presence and make it your friend]. There's nothing like taking the engine off your bike by yourself to show bike and woman (or man) who is the master and who is the beast of burden. Of course, in the end, you realize that neither you nor the bike are in charge, but rather some dude named Murphy who made a law that plagues us all! (Don't tell Tami the last part, it's probably better she have a moment or two thinking she is in charge.) Ben (note from Mama: readers, Ben is our "young dude" who decided to ride as his main transportation means and has been wrenching on a used Vulcan he bought and finding out the true meaning of "omigosh, now I've got to work the bugs out of that." I agree that every single thing you do on or to a bike makes that bike more yours and demystifies portions. Murphy is a killjoy!) Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Lesa, Yes, you'll have more power at your fingertips, but the basics still apply! So, when you get the bigger bike, fire it up and in neutral, rev the throttle to get use to the new sounds. Get a feel for how "touchy" or "sluggish" the throttle is compared to the Rebel. The first time you let out the clutch and give it throttle, make sure you have plenty of empty space in front of you and just ease things out, even if you dump the clutch and stall . . . you know from experience that a few practice rounds will get your "combo" in tune. And remember, if you find yourself all of a sudden zooming forward, pull in the clutch lever to remove power from the rear drive and ease on the brakes to stop. Then try it again! And again and again and again! Then move onto practicing your shifting, turns, curves, etc. in baby steps so that you don't overwhelm yourself. My guess is that within a few practice sessions you'll be confidently taking your first road ride and smiling the whole way! Mama Hi Petra (VTwin Mama's real name!), Last year I got my VTX 1300. I conquered my fears by taking private lessons while my husband was at work. The problem of the exhaust pipe hitting my right inner thigh was taken care of. The local tailor put heat resistant fabric in a couple pairs of my jeans. As a gift, my husband had Vance and Hines pipes along with the rejetting done. Here's the problem: I'm intimidated by the bike again. It's the sound of those pipes. Although I love the roar of the pipes, for some unknown reason the sound imparts fear. This is MY bike and I am not going to be afraid of it. VTwin Mama and friends, please give me some advice on getting over the jitters based on my perception of power. Audrey Dear Audrey, Although at your riding time level it seems silly to go to a practice lot, the use of ear plugs on the road would introduce an added "change," that is, you would be muffling your hearing to clue you into traffic things happening around you. So, get your noise/power perception under control in a safer environment. Readers, any acclimation thoughts? Mama Wednesday, April 19 For Audrey who now has louder pipes, and it's skewing her view of the bike's power: We put Vance & Hinds pipes on the VLX (and had jetting
and other work done) before I moved back up to it. The noise scared me, too.
Like I wasn't scared enough moving back up to that beast, and now the new
pipes had changed the sound from a purr to a growl. What made it worse was
that when I would accidentally goose the throttle, it was LOUDER, and it was
embarrassing! I began to wonder if I had made a big mistake, possibly
increasing my already mounting fears. So, I refrained from moving the bike
around while it was running to avoid "startling" myself. If I had to
turn it around in the driveway, I shut it off. (I still do that.) My husband
said that he does the same because you can't maneuver a heavy bike without
goosing the throttle once or twice. Makes sense, I guess. Thursday, April 27 Hi Mama, For the record, I'm a retired Police Officer in England. Prior to my retirement I was a motorcycle patrol officer for 30 years. My greatest claim to fame was catching 2 speeders ( a Porsche & a Ferrari) at 130 mph at the same time on my bike! The reason I tell you this is to demonstrate that I had no fear of speed or curves on a bike. Having retired, I began to develop a fear of both, to the point that when I was touring France, the panic was so bad I had to have my bike shipped back home to England. I had medical checks for inner ear problems with a negative result & was about to stop biking. I then took a course to try to help me out. This involved 'Counter Steering'. It's something we all do naturally, but as it 'feels' wrong and we fight it. That's exactly what I was doing! After some time, I redeveloped the technique - and I'm back! Your site is brilliant with good advice & common sense. As a 55 year old male, its a pity that there are no similar sites for guys - probably some macho thing - but there are many males who have the same problems! I'm going to direct them to your site if that's OK? By the way, on U Turns, a little tip - when turning using the clutch & throttle, keep gentle pressure on the rear brake. It keeps you much more stable & shows traffic behind (via your brake light) that you are very slow moving and helps keep them off you. It worked for me for 30 years in London traffic! Best Wishes John Toms (Blue Knights England II) Dear John, I was intrigued by your account of an encroaching fear that happened after so many years on a motorcycle and thought back on my own experiences. I have to admit that while I didn't stop riding, there was a period where I lived in trepidation of all mountain passes. Despite my knowledge of counter steering, the bike just didn't handle that well and I was always riding slow to make up for the lack in handling. Yuck! A change in bikes cleared that mess up! As a rider who learned on her own back in 1979, I can appreciate that I actually learned many techniques simply by working through the challenges, so maybe I didn't know there was a name for it, but I did it instinctively (or learned the hard way!). I think that there are many things that can trigger a specific fear later in the adventure of riding and applaud that you decided to take a step back, enroll in a course, and seek the guidance of an accredited instructor. Revisiting basic and advanced skills is vital as riding a motorcycle is to understand that you're in for a lifetime of learning! Your added note on feathering the back brake in a tight turn has been discussed before, but it didn't occur to me that the trigger of the brake light was an added benefit to visibility on a slow maneuver. Thanks for sharing this observation! I was once accused of coddling my readers.
Actually I offer acknowledgement, empathy, a shared experience, and steps
towards solutions. Coddling, schmoddling . . . let's talk! Women, men, and all
alien life forms able to communicate in English are welcome to share in the
world of VTwin Mama and her readers!
Mama Friday, May 12 More for Audrey who now has louder pipes, skewing her view of the bike's power: DON'T BE!! I have Vance and Hines 2 into 1 on my bike and actually asked my husband to take out one of the baffles so I could be a little louder on the road . . . that GRRRR, rumble and ROAR has been a savior for me on more than one occasion!!! Once, a quite older lady, perhaps in her seventies (or more) didn't see me on her left and started to pull into my lane . . . a couple of quick BLAPPS on the throttle brought her into reality and changed her mind to change lanes . . . granted, I should have been quicker to get out of her blind spot but the timing was off and thank you pipes for all that racket!! I've been riding for only 2 years and am turning 50 this October. The Harley Davidson Super Glide I ride is loud and there is a viable reason for Harley's giving off the noise they do . . . reason why it was my choice of bike to ride. We all need every reason to become as conspicuous as possible out there!!! MHO - hope this helps!!! Absolutely adore your site, mama!!! Scotka (note from Mama: thanks for sharing how louder pipes will assist Audrey in the long run!) Sunday, May 21 For Lesa who is moving up to a larger bike and has concerns: I just recently went from a 1982 Kawasaki 440 LTD to a 2006 H-D 1200 Sportster Custom. What a difference! Not only does it have amazing power, the responsiveness, control, and fit are much better! The 440 could not keep up with my husband's H-D EG 1450! It was quite an adjustment to get used to a more powerful bike, really a lot like VT Mama says, you relearn everything again. And just remember to not expect to ride perfectly right out of the chute. That will come in time! Now I have to remember that advice myself! Why is it that we expect to do things perfectly the first time we try it? Practice, practice, practice. I have had my permit for one year, have been driving for one year, riding on the EG with my husband for two years, am scheduled for MSF BC in July. I can't wait. I love motorcycling. God Bless Heather (note from Mama: I always think that when I'm worrying about something, that's the time to map out steps to address the exact nature of the worry and in doing that, see that it can usually be taken in small gulps that make sense!) Dear VTwin Mama, I have not ventured far at all from home . . . some of my friends think I should get on the road, but I don't feel I am ready yet for safely reasons and I am scared!! Does it take some people longer to get the hang of this or perhaps did "I Lose My Mind." Anonymous Dear Anon, For many new riders the course goes well and then they are left looking at their new bike wondering how they are going to transition. This is natural. The key is to "do the course" all over again, on your own bike and in a safe practice zone. Do you have a school, church, big parking lot store, or dead business with a big lot anywhere near? When is this lot least likely to have cars zooming around? Are any of these friends riders? If so, once you've identified an obstacle-free, flat and paved lot, get that bike there (you or a friend) and put yourself through the paces. Set up cones or tennis balls cut in half or plastic drinking cups. Plan several practice sessions so that you don't overload yourself and keep going until you've got a better sense of the bike. You can't tackle farther down the road if you can't execute a simple intersection turn (for example) and these things can be mimicked and practiced in your safe zone! While you're working on that, take the car and plan out a simple route out of your neighborhood on a light traffic day (usually early Sunday morning). Note all the details (turns, intersections, ditches, potholes, etc.), run through it in the car (but think like a rider) a number of times, and get comfortable with the plan. Keep it short and simple. When you are ready, do it. Have someone ride with you or have a friend follow in a car so you've got a support person there. Then plan your next ride down to the last detail. Keep adding small challenges. If the gas station is too much to handle right off the bat, fill up a gas can and bring it home so you can fill up there! If any one has snide remarks about this plan, tell them
it's YOUR experience and YOU need to handle the beginning of YOUR
adventure YOUR way! You are neither crazy or lost your mind . . . you've
got the jitter fears and I give you full permission to take baby steps.
Trust me on this, it makes a difference!
Mama Hi VTwin Mama, Well I took the MSF class and I am loving every minute of ridding . . . well almost.
After passing the MSF class I took my bike out for a little ride in the parking lot. My husband rode my bike to the lot and when I got on it I felt great and I very proudly showed him what I could do. He just stood there with this look and then said, "I will be right back." He took the car home and got his bike. We played around the parking lot doing figure eights and fast/slow stops; all the things you learn in class.
He asked if I was ready to go home and I asked if he was going to go and get the car. He told me no, he thought I could handle it with no problems. Well we rode home and then he asked if I wanted to accompany him to the gas station. I was hooked! I have put on over 300 miles on my bike and have rode with the Big Boys three times so far (of course we still visit the parking lot to review the things I learned in class).
Anyway, the boys asked me along for a Tuesday Taco night and I trailed behind at my own pace. I think I made them nervous but they all hung back with me. This weekend I went on a 115 mile ride with them. I was able to stay with them and they even had me lead once. To see my husband behind me with a smile on his face and so proud of me has made a significant change in my confidence level. I still am nervous and scared but I'm glad I am because I dont want to forget what could happen.
I dont really like tight slow corners and sometimes struggle with them. My husband told me it will all come in time just remember what my instructor told me . . . look where I want to go not where Im going. The bike is a little top heavy, but I am figuring out what its capable of doing and keeping the tire straight and not applying to much front brakes at slow stops is a must.
I really look forward to the warmer weather and enjoying spending time with everyone. My husband is in the Army and we are at a school right now and we all |
