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Wednesday, June 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Sheryl, This way, you figure out what you absolutely must have in your next bike and then ultimately what your dream is (for each of the categories you've identified as important to you). In this way you are forced to really think it out (and by writing it down it doesn't keep swirling in your head aimlessly!). Try that and see if you aren't drawn to some conclusions about selling current bikes, modifying current Sporty, etc. Also, for your height, check out my Motorcycles for Short Riders list to see what other women are enjoying and how they got there. – Mama Wednesday, June 30 For Laura and the whole "are we rednecks because we ride" issue: Rednecks may call themselves that, identifying themselves as members of a group and lifestyle, but I don't feel comfortable calling someone a redneck because I don't belong to that group. I think your response was a good way to deflect the guy's lame attempt to start a conversation with you. – Sarah (note from Mama: I try to keep in mind this thought: not to take anything personally because what other people say or do as it isn't because of you, it's because of their own life experiences. Hmmmm . . .) Wednesday, June 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, May 2003: March 2004: June 2004: TO DATE: Dear
No Name, I was immediately drawn to your description of the plugs when they fouled. So I opened up my Clymer manual for my Harley where I knew there was a guide to plugs and the color/condition when things go wrong. The question is, was the white deposit mostly on the insulator (as opposed to the firing tip) and are there small black or gray brown spots with a bluish-burnt appearance of electrodes? If so, the causes are engine overheating, wrong type of fuel, loose spark plugs, too hot a plug or incorrect ignition timing (I'm sure some of these could be immediately ruled out, but others might give pause for reflection). If this description does not match yours, I think you should bring in an example to your local dealer's service department for a closer, look-see. Is it possible that with the re-jetting you were given bum info on what plugs might need to be used -- given the alterations and higher performance? And when was the last time you checked the tightness of your exhaust pipe connection (and/or possible gasket replacement) -- as this will affect performance and add to some of the symptoms you describe. I'm hoping that I'm giving you some food for thought as it most probable that more than one "thing" has resulted in the bike not running. – Mama Wednesday, June 30 For Kerry who noted how different dealers can be with a prospective customer: Kerry's comment about salesmen reminded me of our local Honda dealer. They don't seem to care that I can drive 60 miles in several directions and get real service. It may not be that she's a woman either. The last time we were there, my husband waited patiently at the counter for his turn, only to have the salesman turn away from him to help another salesman. !!! We then went to the Harley dealer where the parts guy handed it to him immediately and didn't charge him. Her dealer may just be complacent like ours.We've bought three bikes from dealers in other towns because our small-town dealers acted like they had all the customers they needed. With my first bike, however, I was persistent...called around to shop price, got the price I wanted locally, and I did it without the husband. Next time I decided it was too much work to buy locally. I think it's great that Kerry has established a good relationship with a shop in another town. It's a good excuse for a Saturday ride. – Sarah (note from Mama: buyers take heed -- you don't have to put up with shoddy dealerships, at least not most of us.) Wednesday, June 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have been shocked at how uncomfortable right away I have felt on a number of low and middleweight cruisers! The bike that made me swoon, drool, and get teary eyed when we left the store was the Suzuki Intruder, one I hadn't even considered before. The bike felt made for me literally. The other two I found "okay" and "tolerable" were HDs Low Rider, and Kaw Vulcan 750. The Intruder however is the only one I played around with and wanted to get out and RIDE with no nagging insecurities. I also don't want to deal with a chain drive on my first bike and most smaller cruisers have them. I thought I wanted a Savage to begin with, but haven't found one to try, and the reports I've read about them not doing so well on the highway made me reconsider. I have found some good deals on used Intruders, but notice that three of them are older (92 and 98) but with less than 6000 miles on them. This concerns me because it seems like either the owners hated riding, they hated the bike, or the bike had serious issues to the point it couldn't be ridden a lot. With that in mind, is it better to try and get a "newer" used bike that has been ridden more in its shorter lifespan (but still around 6K), or is there a mileage that is sort of a cut-off mark as too much? I know the 92s had a recall for handlebar issues that I would have to take care of since on the 92 the owner never even knew there WAS a recall. And would any Intruder and/or Savage owners like to chime in with opinions on the two bikes? – Haven Dear
Haven, Ok, you've identified a make/model that makes you want to ride. And the Intruder 800 is a darn good bike and well loved by many. It is my experience that many of the baby boomer set bought bikes in their 30s and 40s because it was cool to ride and they wanted in on the game. Then they found out that it rains sometimes. Or they have to attend some function or another every weekend. Or their spouse really didn't want them riding. Or, or, or. So, unless the bike is a lemon, why these older bikes have fewer miles is not important. You are clearly doing your homework and like it. Trust your gut instinct here. As to trying out the Intruder, have you checked with the dealer or independent shop to see if they offer the bike on rental for a day? You would be surprised. I am not aware of a mileage/age of bike cutoff indicator. I consider the main point to be whether routine maintenance has been done (oil, plugs, etc.). And I would consider asking the owner if they would allow the bike to be checked out by a reliable mechanic to ascertain its worthiness. Those that flat out refuse are suspect. Those that will consider it, well . . . forge an agreement. Also, make sure to check something like the Kelley Blue Book for Motorcycles to determine the appropriate price range. As I've never had a new bike (all three bought used), I simply made sure the bike was running and either took it out myself or had the owner take me out as passenger. You'll die laughing when I tell you that my current bike snapped its clutch cable attachment rod within two miles of me riding it home after buying it (duct tape to the rescue)! Then, I did a full maintenance review and even brought it to the dealer for some items I wanted addressed that I couldn't handle myself. I don't recall that we've had much input on the Savage, but am hoping that readers will chime in. Hope some of my info helps -- good luck! – Mama Wednesday, June 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Ritz, Wednesday, June 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, My question is: does anyone else have problems with vibration in the grips and footpegs at the 60 mph range? When I head out on the highway : ) the tank begins to vibrate between 50-55 mph, the handlebars and footpegs at about 60 and the seat at 65. It seems like the motor actually needs another gear to ride smoothly at highway speeds. If anyone else has this problem tell me what you did to fix it - or if you're just putting up with it. My mechanic said it could possibly be that one of the wheels is out of balance. I'm taking it in for them to look at and test drive next week. Hopefully it's just that simple! Otherwise I'll be happy for any input I can get! Thanks a bunch! – Jennifer Dear
Jennifer, Wednesday, June 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Could you maybe give me hint at what it might be? Hopefully I can take a look myself and not have to go to the dealer to have it fixed. Thanks. – Regan Dear
Regan, Wednesday, June 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Stephanie, Saturday, June 26 For Rose who wants to lower a Sporty 1200: Drag Specialties has a relocation bracket that works on Sportster's, to lower the rear shock by repositioning it. If using an 11 inch (the smallest recommended for a Sportster) the bracket positions the shock in such a way as to convert it to simulate a 10 inch shock. The part is called "Relocation Bracket for rear shocks." I am also only five feet tall and found this one inch difference to be substantial. Corbin as a "Close-up Gun Fire" seat that is very low profile and fits the small body frame perfectly. This also makes a huge difference in riding position height... Hope this helps. This week I'm changing the front fork tubes and putting on shorter ones as well as putting in a shorter progressive spring. That will bring the bike down another two inches. All together I have lowered my position about 3 to 3 1/ inches - HUGE difference! Girl you have to have your feet on the ground to ride !!! – Tina (note from Mama: thanks for pointing out solutions that are making a difference for you -- and another venue for Rose to check out. We've also had many positive reviews of the Corbin seat you mention.) Saturday, June 26 For RM who has fine hair and the traditional hair smush problems: I have the same problem!!! I don't know if I can make it through this "trying to grow out for a pony tail phase" or not! I have recently been trying to use a doo-rag/doo-wrap under the helmet, and it helps some. At least it keeps some of the shorter pieces of hair from whipping in the face! I have bangs and those are what is really the problem. What I try to do is take one hand and rake it through the hair, front to back and use the other hand to position the 'doo-rag' over the head. I then put it on the forehead where I want it, then kind of "stuff" the hair on the sides up underneath it, behind the ears. It then ties in back. The hair doesn't look too bad when it comes off. The problem is though after about one time of removing the helmet, the doo-rag comes off with the helmet every time! I am in the process of trying to solve this problem though; a lady I work with is an excellent seamstress and she is working on a pattern that will use elastic, not ties! We think that maybe if it was more form fitting, it wouldn't come off, and you don't have to hassle with tying it all the time to keep it tight!! I hope it works! She is also going to come up with a version that will come down over the ears (for when I wear the half-helmet) and will have small slots for my riding glasses to go through over the ears! Hopefully she will have a 'prototype' ready in a week or so! This hair thing shouldn't be such a hassle! If this doesn't work then everyone will just have to look at my 'helmet head' and know that I proudly wear it as a symbol of riding my own! P.S. Thanks Petra for all of your efforts and hard work! – Another VTwin Mama in Kansas with fine/straight/flat hair! (note from Mama: I'm intrigued by the possible new solution and would love to see pictures when seamstress friend works it out -- if it's truly useful, then we good feature it on one of my pages if she wants to sell them!) Saturday, June 26 Dear
VTwin Mama, At the time my husband had an '01 Roadie Silverado 1600 (stock). We went out on the road and started "playing" -- you know, driving next to each other, looking at the bikes and such. (Now kids, don't try this at home.) He said to go ahead and hit it to see if there was a difference ... well, I left him! He said he wasn't ready and to do it agian ... left him again. So, not a guy to take no for an answer, he said let's do that again. Well, I'm really starting to like it by now, so we hammered them again (we were starting out from about 40-45), and I SMOKED him! He had a hard time living that down. He's since solved the "problem" by getting a new Royal Star Venture ... man, does that thing have some power. I owe a lot of the confidence I now have to you and the gals on the website. When I first started riding I was freaked by EVERYthing! But got some incredibly helpful advice from everyone and between that the lots of road time, I'm comfortable now. Oh yeah, still get an adrenaline jolt from stuff, but I think that's what keeps me careful! Thanks for the website and the help. – Barb Dear
Barb, Saturday, June 26 For Adam who is looking to lower a Moto Guzzi: I don't think that Adam will find anything for lowering a '96 California, but I know of some people who have solved their seat height problems with the seat shaving/modifying ideas. There are links to a bunch of seat rebuilders on my links page at http://www.armory.com/~marina/links.html . Some rebuilders can do some creative seat shaping, too (to keep the front of the seat narrow), which helps. Good luck to Adam! – Marina (note from Mama: you're my Guzzi guru Marina -- thanks for checking the site and seeing this one!) Saturday, June 26 For Annie B. and her Adventures: Way to go! I hope your riding is coming along and that hubby is too! – Marina (note from Mama: short and sweet, but every message of support is an important one!) Cool Annie, very cool : ) I have not even been away for a month and things are happening. I take it you got your insurance or you would not be riding YOUR bike and now you are claiming roads. A lot can change in a short amount of time. The next thing you know you will be taking a hundred mile trip and telling us all about it. I just got back from a rally in Cookesville, Tennessee and ran into several different obstacles. Of course, I trailered the bike because it was a 7 ½-hour trip by car and I am not ready for the long haul just yet. We camped out on top of a hill, which meant that I had to ride my bike down the hill, which was grassy and wet, and then it rained and the hill became mud. There were so many bikes that went down that it scared me to death, I actually rode to the top, and my husband had to ride it down the hill because I was so scared.
I went for a ride into to town because my husband doesn’t have a bike (long story there) and I took it on the highway for the first time. There were many windy roads, but no traffic a perfect situation. A gorgeous day, the sun was out and there is just not another feeling like it in the world, unless you surf. We came back and I had forgotten that I had to go back up this hill, but I did it and with no hesitation, gunned it and stood up because the ground was so bumpy and made it to the top. There were a bunch of guys camping right at the top of the hill and they were clapping for me, it felt good. Another obstacle was the gravel roads : ( there were a few guys that dropped there bikes on that road. I took the uphill gravel road very slow and I never used my front brake because the road is so bumpy you kinda of have ride to them out. It is like when you are on a boat and you hit the waves, there is nothing you can do about it. Just try to stay in time with the waves while in control. It was a great weekend and it really gave me the confidence to go down the road I have been avoiding. Annie, I am glad that the wind and sun are finally upon your face. If you ever make it to North Carolina, I would be honored to ride with you. Sincerely, – ST (note from Mama: messages of support are so great! And thanks for sharing your own set of adventures -- you're "stick with it" attitude is a true testimonial that it CAN be done and each day is a new day for learning and trying. Kudos! ) Saturday, June 26 For Sami and her tussle with that rotten ol' gravel (!): Not that I am any expert with gravel, but I too live on a gravel road with a circle driveway also of gravel. So I can relate with Sami on her fears on gravel. When I first started riding, which was 8 years ago, my husband gave me some wonderful advice. First, he told me “never use the front brake on gravel”. The front end is so light and the fact that the gravel is so movable, the front brake locks up “very” easily. Once the front brake locks up the front end washes out to one side causing the bike to go down. Second, he told me is if the bike feels unstable (wobbly from going over the gravel) to put some weight “on” the foot pegs. I think that lowers your center of gravity and helps the bike from being top heavy, I happen to ride a Sportster. I have always followed these two rules, no front brake and weight on pegs, and I have never dropped my bike on gravel (pavement yes, : ( ). I hope this helps. Thanks for a great site. – Sue in Poplar Grove, IL (note from Mama: thanks for the tips -- it's greatly appreciated and glad you're enjoying your time visiting the VTwin Mama site! You may not be an "expert," but you've figured out your solution set and that's worth a lot!) I'm lazy, so I'm not re-checking all the other gravel road comments (well, not lazy, but my dissertation is due on Tuesday - gack! I haven't been reading the Internet or anything lately, but I needed a little break today). Anyways, I am terrified of gravel myself. Lucky for me, the main place I encounter it is at rally sites (so not so often)! Still, just when I'm getting really excited about an upcoming campout, the little voice comes in... "I bet you have to ride a gravel road in the campground..." And of course I do, every time I want to leave and return to the site. Every time I've been to a Moto Guzzi rally, I've nearly (!) eaten it. Last time, my friend Nicole (who is not an experienced passenger; I gave her a short test ride the week before) came along for the ride, and I totally almost ate it coming back from dinner in town. I hit the deepest gravel pocket available and the Stone started that shimmy. With Nicole on the back, it made the sensation about 20 times worse! She was good though, and sat still. I yelled at myself (in my head) to keep my eyes up and keep the throttle steady. Of course, what you want to do is look down at the ground you are about to hit and start estimating how much damage you're going to do to your bike and self. Suddenly, we were through it, the rear wheel caught, and we spurted ahead as thought I had gunned it! The story ends happily with us making it to the nice dirt part of the road and over the grass to our tent site. Well, let me tell you, I was SO PROUD of myself and of Nicole (I still can't believe she didn't try to hop off!). I only felt stupid that I hadn't done some risk assessment ahead of time. The next morning, while visiting the bathroom, I nonchalantly wandered around the campground entrance and noted where the gravel was the most shallow. I mapped out two "best routes" and used them for the rest of the weekend without even a wobble. So, my advice is: 1) keep your grip light on the bars (or, grip tight and arms loose if you're too nervous), 2) keep your head and eyes up and looking where you want to go (even if you have to tilt your head back to force your eyes into the right place), 3) don't even touch the brakes (you shouldn't need them in 1st gear, feathering the clutch as VTwin Mama advises), 4) keep the throttle input uniform and if you have to alter speeds you must do it SMOOTHLY, 5) don't get startled if you're in a shimmy and then the rear wheel catches - yes, you will spurt forward, 5) take a walk down the lane and check out where the deepest gravel pockets are - then remember and avoid them, 6) set up any turns and curves early so they can be as wide as possible, and aim for those shallow zones in the gravel, 7) if you're going to ride on gravel with your legs stuck out (feet down - which I see all the time at Moto Guzzi rallies so it's totally normal), get some practice in this position on solid road - otherwise, this position can completely change your geometry and in itself destroy some of the comfort you normally feel on that great Vulcan! Good luck and don't give up!– Marina (note from Mama: what a wonderful, entertaining letter about the gravel devils! Lots of helpful tips to try out here. Hope your dissertation is just as successful!) Saturday, June 26 For Lucy who may want to start out on a Marauder 800: I am the proud owner and rider of a Marauder 800. I absolutely adore my bike and can't ride it enough. However, I did start out on a Savage for one season and am very glad I did. The Marauder is a heavier bike and has a LOT of low end torque. If I hadn't logged my 5,000 miles on my Savage for experience, I know I would have been really intimidated by the Marauder. However, we all have different skills and experiences. If Lucy has more questions she is welcome to get in touch with me. – Maureen (note from Mama: good info here for Lucy to ponder and I'll pass on any message if she wants to contact you!) Thursday, June 24 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Rose,
Another solution is to check to see if a shorter shock is available, possibly from Progressive Suspension or check with your local dealer. And then you can do some other things, like shave part of your seat padding, check into a new seat (Corbin is a good place to look) that will lower your butt or even add just a bit of heel to your riding boots. Now, go check these suggestions out, find the solution that best meets your needs and budget and then . . . fly VTwin Mama sister! – Mama Thursday, June 24 For RM who has fine hair and the traditional hair smush problems: I have the exact same hair as you it sounds like (it’s a bummer huh!). I have a little portable cordless curling iron called a Braun Style Shaper. It is pretty small, and will fit into a fork bag or something. It runs on butane energy packs, so you have to be careful about leaving it in temperatures above 120 degrees for an extended time. I take it for camping type overnighters. It helps put SOME body back into your hair. I usually just keep a bandana on my head or something for around town riding. Have fun in Sturgis! – dij (note from Mama: ok, I vote to cover it up with a stylish bandana!) Thursday, June 24 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Adam, Thursday, June 24 Dear
VTwin Mama, Next, with all the discussion of cut in half tennis balls, plastic cups etc. for practicing, did you know you can actually buy those fun little cones we use on the range? You can find them at the MSF site for just $1.50 each. 10 of them should be plenty for parking lot practice. Here's the link: https://store.msf-usa.org/index.asp. If anyone wants to know the measurements for any one of the BRC exercises, they are welcome to contact me, either by e-mail or on ShinnySideUp and I'd be happy to pass on the information. – HammerLady Dear
HammerLady, Thursday, June 24 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Where's Lance, Wednesday, June 23 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Steph, What you’re looking for is a bike
that meets your requirements for power, speed, etc., but can be lowered if
necessary to accommodate your height. Traditional methods to get your feet
flat on the ground (or whatever range you are comfortable with) is to
install a lowering kit, shave part of the seat’s padding out, get a new
seat with a lower profile, or add a little heel to your riding boots. Wednesday, June 23 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
RM, Wednesday, June 23 For Mark who wants to drill the baffles to change the exhaust sound: We drilled 4 holes in each of my '99 V-Star mufflers and the sound is really nice. You drill them in the back. The 650 V-Site has complete instructions if you are nervous about doing it right. Also....we repainted the ends of the mufflers so that they were completely black...since the drilling did show. Hope that makes sense. Hugs, – Bootygrandma, aka Betty (note from Mama: darn tarnation, I can't find that site again! Send me the email address Betty!) From Betty: It is on Delphi. the address is: http://forums.delphiforums.com/sgmfa. There is a hoard of information to be obtained from this site and the folks that frequent it are really nice. Wednesday, June 23 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Carmen, The only article
or product source I found online that mentions the word “feminine”
was from mainland China, and the translation might be a bit fuzzy at best.
Anything else that linked the words (hush, don’t say them too loudly)
motorcycle and feminine was actually on bicycle riders. Sigh. That said, you may be up for getting
copies of the free catalogs offered by the big aftermarket houses, like J&P
Cycle. Next, attend every big rally you can with the sole intent of
studying what women are wearing and then, if you have to, knock down a
woman off her bike when you see something you like so you can talk to her.
Sigh. Wednesday, June 23 Dear
VTwin Mama, One thing that I have tried and it seems to be ok...(though not right, I'm sure) is that I go really slow (1st gear) and kind of drag, kick my feet real close to the ground in case I feel the bike get ready to fall. But I'm not alievating the problem of using my front brake too much. How do I combat this????? I just want to not be so scared of my damn lane!!! I don't have any other problems with my bike. But this fear makes me nearly want to sell it! : ( – Sami Vulcan 500 Dear
Sami, Of course you’re horrified of the
gravel road – it’s eating your bike and your sense of confidence
alive. Nasty little gravel devils live just under the surface, waiting for
a chance to throw you down! All three of me (me, myself, and I)
support the “drag your feet on the ground in case the devils are going
to dump you” method of riding gravel. One step up from that is adopting
a more “skim your feet really near to the surface trailing slightly
behind you” ‘cause it looks more like you’re on a dirt bike or
motocross track. And you look cooler. My guess is that you’ve probably got
a death grip on the handlebar controls. The problem with this, besides
permanently cutting off the blood supply to your fingers, is that every
little wobble of the front end becomes bigger because you’re not giving
it any wiggle room. Trying to maintain a truly straight course on gravel
is like asking a hungry bear to dinner when there’s no other food in the
house. You just don’t want to do it! Now comes the sticky wicket in the
whole equation. How to maintain speed, but not too much. and not use the
brakes to slow yourself down?! Best place to practice is in an empty
parking lot. You’ve got to get into 1st gear, than ease off
the throttle, and just when the bike is going to die, pull the clutch
lever in half way and give the throttle a little nod. Keep practicing
slipping the clutch lever into various engage/disengage points with minor
combinations of throttle to find the exact combination needed to keep the
bike moving forward without gaining any real speed. Voila! You are ready
for gravel. Wednesday, June 23 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Christy, Tuesday, June 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Ernest, Key ingredients to consider: first, have your wife take a look at the bike and sit on it and see if she's got a good feeling about it. If that seems ok, then get that bike to an empty lot someplace with few obstacles and begin practice sessions. If you're going to be the teacher, then it's imperative that you listen very closely to what she is trying to tell you during practice and do not push too hard (let her guide the pace of the learning sessions). You need to make sure she has control of the overall situation so that frustration does not set in. Go for it! – Mama Tuesday, June 22 For Annie B. who is new to riding and facing a number of challenges: Boy oh boy, miss this site for a couple days and you miss a lot! First and foremost: YEAH ANNIE B! Takin' the bike out for a spin by yourself with hubby away...you've got WAY MORE GUTS than I did. I mean that in a good way. My husband called me from work every day, rain or shine, to ask me if I took my bike out yet. Between my jitters and all that pressure I could barely make it out the door, let alone the driveway. You go girl!!! Keep it up, and who knows, maybe by the time you do ride with your husband, you'll ride better than he does. However, if I may make a suggestion, consider having your bike in first gear when you stop, at least until you see that the traffic behind you has stopped. Always try to leave some space in front and have an escape route planned. Just in case. And inclines worried me too until I learned to hold the clutch just at the friction point, allowing me to skip holding the front brake while sitting there, and then I can get going easily without trying to slip my hand off of the brake and onto the throttle. I used to rock the bike in the driveway to dispel my jitters before going out; it proved to be a good practice maneuver for clutch control (for me, anyway). Also, I have a question about the tennis ball thing. I heard or read somewhere about using those red plastic disposable drink cups for cones, and I was going to try that. But then, I thought that on the off chance one of my skinny tires would "catch" one and roll over it, I might lose traction and have a tire slide out. Those rubbery little cones they use in the classes are perfect (if expensive and hard to find) because you don't lose traction rolling over them. So how do the "tennis balls cut in half" fare in this respect? Would they likely slip? – Linda Carruth (note from Mama: thanks for the support to Annie B. In regard to your questions about the use of tennis balls and drink cups, I'm thinking that they both squish and/or move so easily that they should pose no problem if your bike decides to aim (!) straight for them. Let's see if Pat or Betty read this and have more to add about their perspective use of these alternatives to cones.) Tuesday, June 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, I had no idea how to get to Pete's house, so we met at a shopping center halfway between our houses. To get there, I had to navigate roads that I wouldn't even have considered last Sunday, and certainly never anticipated riding them today, much less alone. But I just got on the bike this afternoon and somehow it all just "clicked" and it was like I moved up a level. Riding around today, it felt like riding that bike was the most natural thing in the world. We rode busy roads, windy roads, huge intersections, up to about a 45 mph posted. And I did it because I knew I could do it. I know there are levels after this one, but, HOW COOL IS THAT!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! – Annie B. Dear
Annie, Monday, June 21 For Cecilia who got the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies video and is getting ready to practice: When I was first learning to ride, my husband bought red plastic drink cups to use as cones on the practice course he set up. They worked great .... were not expensive...and not dangerous if you accidentally rode over one. Hugs, – Bootygrandma, aka Betty (note from Mama: so many cones, so little time!) Monday, June 21 For @ngela who has the jitter thing going on: I am not a regular “reader," but I do drop in from time to time and I wanted to respond to @ngela’s message on June 17th to you. This site has really helped me to know that I’m not alone in the world of women riders and that we all have similar thoughts, fears, and experiences and I wanted to share mine with @ngela. Last August, I got my first bike (Honda A.C.E. 750) since my brother and I shared one when we were in high school which was too long ago to mention. My husband got his bike a year ago March, and the more I rode on the back, the more I wanted to be in front. Besides I always told him “that if he got one, so did I." I went through the MSF course and passed the first time through. The class is a REQUIREMENT for any rider, but I think I was even more cautious after the class and wondered “what have I gotten myself into?" I wasn’t sure I was ready for the larger bike, and right before the class, I had forgotten to put the kickstand down when rearranging the bikes in the garage and both of us hit the floor. Then after the class, I experienced the same “sloping hill” problem. I decided to ride to work one day not long after I got my license and the route I chose was probably not the best. On my way home at a stop sign, the bike landed on its side. I was really in a funk at that point. Dropping the bike at a stop sign after the garage experience was probably my worst fear and I had just done it! But after some reading on your web site and mulling things over, I realized I was pretty normal. Everyone goes through a learning period. I also realized that my worst fear had happened and it wasn’t that bad. What I needed was practice, confidence, and a better route to work! Since that time, I’ve put over 2000 miles on the bike and I enjoy riding more and more each time we (I) get out. A few weeks after the stop sign incident, my husband and I took trip to visit my family which was around 500 miles round trip. That ride did more for my confidence levels than anything before or since. Just spending that much time with the bike made a world of difference. There are still little things that I think I could be better at and those are the ones that will keep me from getting too confident and making larger mistakes. The important thing is to keep trying! Thanks for your web-site and for the growing numbers of women riders! – Cynthia Cunningham (note from Mama: and there we have it (!) -- an honest admission that not all things are always hunky dory in the first phases of learning to ride, but we CAN and MUST choose to put the learning experience into perspective and keep our eyes on the bigger prize -- to ride with a big "I'm doing it" grin on our faces!) Monday, June 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Cruzntogo, Monday, June 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lucy, On the other hand, if you have a strong support network of friends and family, then get the 800, but have someone ride it to an empty parking lot with little obstructions, and begin practicing your drills just like you did in class. Then, as time and confidence build, you can work your way to rides in the neighborhood, etc. The fact is that I started out on a Kawi 750 and never looked back, but I didn't sweat the dings that happened in the first year either. I just chalked it up to learning! Now, the third bike, my beloved '76 HD Shovelhead, with it's custom chrome and one-of-a-kind paint job (you should see the snakes and skulls!), tended to give me a heart attack in the beginning, despite the fact that I'd been riding for 15 years at that point. It's all relative!– Mama Monday, June 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Are there any ways that any of you could think of to prevent such things happening? Besides moving it to a completely different neighborhood (I guess you could say that I live in the ghetto), I don't know what to do. I'm tempted to really let the guy who did it have it but I'm just a relatively small girl who has no physical power over him. Help! – Katrina Dear
Katrina, My suggestion would be to get a cover for the bike -- this simple tactic would keep people from throwing their leg over the bike seat, etc. (and you keep the cover from being removed by running a link chain through it with a lock). Here's a link to a page on my site for a good cover, but inexpensive. Given your neighborhood, you might want to invest in an alarm as well. Check with your local dealer on options for your bike, cost to install, etc. First person to trip the alarm will alert all others that it's not to be messed with. Lastly, perhaps there is someone in the neighborhood with some room in their garage to store the bike, maybe for a small $5 monthly fee? Maybe put up a notice in your local grocery store saying that you're looking for storage?! Readers, any more ideas?! – Mama Monday, June 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Birdman (we'll refrain from asking!), Saturday, June 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, Note from Mama: in the 6/13/04 issue of my Newsletter, I posted this: So, I’m at a friend’s housewarming party last night and met lots of nice people. One guy was adamant that I must be a redneck because I ride a bike. Boy, was I stuck for a witty, pithy response (that didn’t tax his vocabulary skills too much). Instead I mumbled something about who knows what! My brain was in freeze mode (no words out, no later recall of words said). And I thought I had heard it all. Ha! Now, I don't want to stir the worms up any more, so let me just say I'm a liberal, and I generally equate "rednecks" as they are usually stereotyped with conservatism, and...well...it seems that a LOT of bikers _are_ very very conservative. I'm not even talking about the stereotypical 60s-movie-style hairy beery tattooey sleazy "bikers." Just a lot of people who ride two-wheeled motorized vehicles seem to be very politically/socially conservative...and let's just leave religion out of this entirely. Is this true, and if so, why?? I would guess the guy at the party was making a similar assumption--unless he was a redneck and he was proudly claiming you as a fellow redneck. I've often pondered this very subject. I'm way too busy right now to go into it further (did I hear a sigh of relief?) but this is my abbreviated $.02 and I can hardly wait to hear what the rest of your readers have to say. – Laura Dear
Laura, Saturday, June 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
K., As a reminder to readers, my Cool Links page contains all sorts of useful sites and my Archive page contains the listing of all postings by subject matter for reference. – Mama Saturday, June 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Frank, 1)
has the bike sat for awhile -- this can be part of the cause. So, with this information, the first thing I would do is revisit the oil type/weight in the bike and change it (as well as the filter). Steve also noted that sometimes jarring the plates by dumping the clutch (i.e. in a modified wheelie) will unlodge a suction situation. Proceed at your own risk on that suggestion! – Mama Saturday, June 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, In our own community with a fancy Honda dealership, I have visited at least 5 times, never to have a salesman approach me at all. In the end, the small shop 230 miles away got my sale, installed all of the accessories which I bought at an additional 10% off their already 10% discounted price and they arranged for very inexpensive delivery to my work place. There seems to be a problem out there with some businesses and salesmen that women just don’t buy motorcycles. They just don’t realize the market is increasing daily and women will take their business where they are respected. By
the way, the Mom and Pop Shop also offered me a finders
fee with any business I send their way.
I am on the Dear
Kerry, So, part of my advice to women looking at bikes is to tell an approaching sales person exactly what level of help they need (immediately), or if no one is coming by, to find any store employee and request a sales person's attention (immediately). Then, with notebook in hand, and a list of questions at the ready, begin. If you feel that you're being panned off because you're a woman, loudly proclaim that your cash is as green as any other and do they want the sale or not?! Then get the sales manager on the floor and demand the assistance. Hard line, but I can guarantee you that a dealership DOES NOT want you loudly proclaiming to everyone who is there at the time that you are not pleased with their service! Sometimes loud is good! I also counsel that not only should one gauge the dealership by the sales department, but take the time to talk with the service and parts department to see how involved they are willing to be when problems arise. After all, once the sales is made, these departments are going to be your life-link to getting solutions! If any readers are near Seattle and looking for a good dealership, I'll put you in contact with Kerry and she can help guide you! – Mama Saturday, June 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, What is a good book for this bike? I would like to learn how to change the spark plugs, filter etc, myself. I have only changed the engine oil up to this point : ) Any direction for me?? – Tina Dear
Tina, These manuals will not only guide you in routine stuff, but list necessary tools to have on hand, provide a troubleshooting section, and more. If you're really jazzing to get started, call you local dealer to see if they have a manual in stock. As to your bike, you need to replace the plugs pronto and maybe even clean out the fuel filter (sediment may have settled) and drain the gas tank (water may have accumulated at the bottom or the gas may be more turpentine than usable gas). It's also possible that the carburetor is gunked up (which needs to be cleaned, but if you can get it running, then all you would need is to add a carb cleaner additive to the gas tank and that will do it!). Don't forget to clean the air filter that sits just off the carb (or replace it). Happy wrenching! – Mama Friday, June 18 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Tammy, Friday, June 18 OK, one more time.... tennis balls cut in half. Now, the image of someone setting up whole balls and running over them is quite amusing: they WOULD fight back - probably fling themselves and attempt to attack the rider. Well, actually, the tennis balls do not fight back... they lay there and mumble, groan and otherwise protest but do not fall apart at the seams as do the cans. Cans protest jaggedly, balls just play dead. – Pat (note from Mama: we are just having WAY to much fun with the tennis ball thing!) Thursday, June 17 For Cecilia who got the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies video and is getting ready to practice: Please caution Cecilia about using cans painted orange as markers for parking lot practice. Cans will not be very nice to run over and cut metal is nasty to hands and tires. Tennis balls work better - they can be abused and will not fight back. – Pat (note from Mama: thanks for pointing this out -- very useful advice. I have such a vivid image in my head of tennis balls rising in protest and pelting her when she misses the mark! Ok, I'm weird.) Thursday, June 17 Here's another round of applause for Annie B. I'm sure her husband will come around soon enough. In the meantime, my best friend happens to be at about the same point (has a bike, just a little paperwork away from getting a proper license), so I'm sending him over to give her a little riding company. Best of luck to her, and my thanks to all of you who backed her up. – Annie B's son, Ian (note from Mama: thank you for taking the time to read through the string of messages supporting your mom.. It takes a lot of courage to face things head on and every person who makes a difference is to be commended. Suggesting that your best friend consider riding with Mom so both have a support system is a stroke of timing and a bit of genius!) And from Annie B. herself: You, and Darija, and Linda and ST and Lou and Cindy and Lili - jeez - I love all of you and we haven't even met. I am fine, really - and you all are the best! My oldest son is living on his own in NYC, and I was trying to explain (via IM) the path my life has taken in the last few weeks - finally I just sent him your url and told him he to start reading at May 31 to see what's up with his mom and dad. He just IM'ed me back and said you were a nice support group. He still can't quite understand why dad doesn't want to go riding with mom and he's awfully smart for a 24 year old. I read all of the letters about how husbands are buying bikes for their wives, and how they go riding together, and it makes me kind of sad and jealous. But I go visit my baby in the garage, and I whisper - "Saturday - just you and me", and I feel better. Attilla the Husband goes to New Orleans on a business trip on Saturday - back Tuesday - and he usually gets nice again on the phone when he is away. Usually the Nice Husband comes back from business trips. Maybe the weekend after he will see how good I am getting and how much fun I am having and he can fix his Shadow from when I dumped it and we can ride together like the people in the letters. Meanwhile, I am going to practice getting into first on an incline. Who'd have thought that something legal could be this much fun? Love, – Annie B. and her little Blue Angel (yes, it is legal and it is fun! Now, I know how much you want the "dream" of husband and wife riding side-by-side, but it's been brought to my attention many times that ultimately we are responsible for our own happiness. So, one step at a time. You just keep doing your thing and with any luck, hubby will see clear-headed again and applaud your continuing skills. He should be applauding your determination, because we sure are!) Thursday, June 17 For Seth who is contemplating several bikes: I would like to offer a humble opinion here on the VTX and the Sabre being considered for Seth's first bike. I had not ridden in 20 years, so I basically considered myself a newbie. After taking the MSF course, I bought a Suzuki Savage 650 last March (03). I did outride the bike by the end of the summer BUT the time spent on the smaller bike, just practicing and riding the back roads was instrumental in my move up to a VTX 1300C. I tried the Sabre but it felt a little top heavy for me and too tall. I am 48 yrs old, 5' 3 and heavier than I want to be, but found the VTX to be a good fit and well balanced. The VTX is a heavy bike (650lbs) and even with the year of riding that I put in, it took me about 600 miles before I felt like I could really handle it in just about all situations. Soooo....with that said! Do consider a smaller bike to begin with just to get your riding skills up a bit before you hop on one of those "big boys". I don't think you could go wrong with a Honda 750 Aero to start with. Just my opinion. By the way, I LOVE my VTX and wouldn't trade it for anything! – Lou (note from Mama: there's nothing like first-hand experience to solidify the thinking process. Seth did write in and noted that my advice was indeed worthy and he would be renting a smaller bike to try it before making any decisions. Wise VTwin Mama brother!) Thursday, June 17 Dear
VTwin Mama, Well 2 days later I bought myself a VFR 400. I am only 5.2" and weigh eight stone. I did get nervous after dropping the bike twice on my lessons, both times on sloping roads, the bike just leaned a little to far and I couldn't hold it up, it really shattered my confidence, but I managed to sail through my test. Well, on my bike I have only been out a couple of times since, one time I was turning right, did it totally wrong and hit the kerb and came off. I was ok, just a bit shaken, but my confidence has been really knocked, I am really nervous and worry about dropping the bike again. I will just be staying local and practicing breaking, turning etc in a big car park, but I can't seem to get rid of my nerves -- any suggestions? Maybe I should just stop being a stupid wimp, because I can do it obviously or I wouldn't have passed my test, maybe this bike is too big for me? I can touch the floor though. I don't think my mums helping either, making me feel really guilty about getting a bike, I am 26. I do understand her concerns, but you only live once, got to enjoy it. Thanks for your time and the website. – @ngela Dear
@angela, In a previous letter it was noted that if you look at the nervousness correctly, it's actually a good thing! The point made was that it's your body/brain telling you that concentration is needed, a safe place for learning your skills is a must, and that in a sort of weird way, you're excited about the prospects of mastering that which you seek to learn! So, big, deep gulp and get on with it. If you have not contacted the Women's International Motorcycle Organization (conveniently located in your country!), now's the time to hop onto their site and make contact. These women have a wealth of knowledge and a shoulder to lean on when riding goes wrong. And to cheer when it's right. Go make some friends -- your nerves will be in good company! And it may even calm Mum down a bit to know that you are with qualified riders who will be helping you along the way. – Mama Thursday, June 17 Dear
VTwin Mama, |