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Thursday, June 1 For Anon, a new rider whose learning curve started with a crash for many reasons: I just wanted to chime in and say whether you are a beginner or seasoned biker, take the time to look over your new bike BEFORE getting on to ride. Make sure all the bolts and nuts are tight! I was shocked after putting the first 50 miles on my brand new HD to find out the dealership had not tightened down the handlebars. The bike had been shipped from the factory and put together at the dealership, evidently they did a sloppy job. Had they come loose while on the road...well, you know the rest. Monica (note from Mama: me too, brought the bike in for service and the rear brake bolts weren't tightened down, first clue was the scraping noise on the rim . . . let's all learn from this!) Anon, I can't tell you how many sad stories I've heard like yours. I agree with Mama and can't stress enough the benefits of taking the beginner rider course. I teach this course and hear at the end of every session how helpful it was for new (and experienced) riders. Its a fantastic program. You'll receive the kind of instruction you just don't get from friends or the internet and in a safe, supportive environment. Another helpful source - check out Gasper Trama's Freedom of the Open Road DVD. Patti (note from Mama: thanks for strengthening the message on taking a course and sharing another visual training source!) Gotta back you on this one, Petra! Reading that letter reminded me of a recent news item. A brand new rider here in FL bought a sportbike, hopped on it and rode away from the dealer. Three miles down the road, he lost control and crashed. Unfortunately, he didn't survive to tell anyone about it. Some people criticized the dealership for selling such a powerful bike to an inexperienced rider, but that is not the dealer's responsibility. And whether you're a brand new rider or have years on the road, DON'T EVER RIDE WITHOUT DOING A SAFETY CHECK!!! If you aren't sure what to look for, get a more experienced friend to show you, or even have the service tech give you some pointers. You just cannot take it for granted that your bike is OK. Your life really does depend on it. Li in Florida (note from Mama: I'm hoping that Anon takes heart from these responses and puts together a battle plan for learning and I'm hoping that the dealer does right by Anon in reviewing and fixing the back brake problem to satisfaction.) Thursday, June 1 For Mookie who shared her passenger fears and pathway to being a solo rider: Thanks for your thoughts on this. It is so comforting to know you felt the same way, and that even though your fear was powerful, your determination to overcome it was more so. I really admire your personal strength and feel inspired by your success! Thanks again for your encouragement. Maureen (note from Mama: knowing you are not alone is an important message at the VTwin Mama site! All of us wish you the best in whatever steps you decide to take to address the fear.) Thursday, June 1 Hey Petra, I went on my first ride since the accident three weeks ago, it was awesome, a little painful when pressing right but nothing I couldn't live with, was a short ride. Next time out I had considerable pain when pulling on my front brake and was noticing that I was having to bend my wrist to pull and realized that my handlebars needed to be adjusted. I talked to a friend who agreed with me and together we adjusted my handlebars and the hand controls, what a huge difference! No more pain. In the process of adjusting I found out that when my bike was wrecked the first time the whole front end was toast, the previous owner put it all back together and didn't do it quite right. All the wiring was wrapped around the forks instead of behind the headlight (I never noticed!), plus the handlebars and controls were just put on with out being tightened completely or in the correct location and the windshield was crooked and difficult to remove. After rerouting the wiring, turning was so much easier. I am feeling much more comfortable with my bike. I am also wondering if the problem I had with turning might have had something to do with wrecking my bike, I was trying to maneuver my bike around a car when we went down, I was having a very difficult time getting it to turn. I had also noticed the difficulty when taking corners but attributed it to being a bigger bike than I was used to. Now everything has been adjusted, wires routed correctly, windshield on level and correct, I feel so much better about riding because it is so much easier to control and I literally have no pain which is amazing to me. Still loving your great site and sure wish I could join you at the conference. Melissa Dear Melissa, Thursday, June 1 Hey Mama, I find myself extremely frustrated at trying to find some protective clothing in a size that will fit me. I'm 5'1" and weigh a hundred and plenty (very portly for my height), and though motorcycle clothing manufacturers seem to carry "big mens" sizes, that's not true for us ladies. I just called my local Harley dealer to make an inquiry about their FXRG nylon slimline pant, which comes in extended sizes. They didn't carry my size in stock. She checked and found that there are only 2 pairs in the entire country in what I think would be my size, having never tried them on: one in Texas and one in North Carolina. A little far for me to go, since I'm in California! When I asked about ordering a pair, she told me that it would be a "special order" and that I would be "stuck" with them even if they didn't fit. That's just crazy!! I was hoping that Woman Biker could help me out with maybe a custom pair of pants, but no response from them. I guess I'm just venting here. When are these manufacturers gonna get that all of us biker ladies aren't a size 8???!!! Thanks for letting me rant. Rose in CA Dear Rose, If a vendor offers a size (extended or not), in my mind they should fulfill the order with full return options. If you ordered the pair from either TX or NC, could they be returned, as for them, it's a stock item? I searched for other vendors offering custom women's
riding gear. I'm thinking I've had input on this before, but it would take
a bit of searching on my Ride
Gear: Riding Gear pages as I don't segment off for short riders, but
may be worth your time reading through. Not all links get translated to my
Women's
Gear page.
Mama Thursday, June 1 Hey Everyone, David rode her the 21 miles home from the dealership and then I took over. Ive been practicing my little heart out on the Rebel (500 miles in a month), read two great books and am re-viewing a video for lady riders who ride bigger bikes ( for me at 51 this 650cc is much bigger). When I got on the V-Star I practiced
with the clutch, just like at MSF . . . and though I really wondered if I
could handle a heavier bike, that wonder disappeared as she (Stella
. . Italian for starlike) and I made our way through our neighborhood! We
have figure-eight roads and lots of cul-de-sacs where I practiced with the
Rebel before taking her into traffic, so it was perfect for me and
Stella." It was like flying a plane! What a great bike. Louder than I
had thought but not obnoxiously so; she took me through corners much more
handily than the Rebel and got me off the mark in a much more efficient
manner as well. I feel as though I am in the bike instead of on top of the
bike, as some of you have experienced since you have had a larger bike for
some time. I really liked the Rebel for getting
started. I dont think I would have even tried to ride if I had had to
try on the size bike I have now (and I dont think I would have done so
well while practicing had I not taken the MSF course), but BOY! I am happy
with the V-Star. I am so glad that I learned to do
this. It is amazing! Dear Susan, Thursday, June 1 Dear VTwin Mama, I enjoy riding with him, but I have a bit of a control complex. I love to drive and I have a fast sports car, so I'm a bit like a fish out of water when I'm riding and not in control of the bike. I notice that I am not as relaxed as I should be and I'm sure that he feels that as well. He really wants me to get my own bike, but I'm very nervous about it. I'm going to take a course this summer to determine if I even want to ride. I don't even drive a car stick-shift, so I'm a bit nervous about the coordination of clutch, gas, gears, brakes, etc. Hubby really would like me to get a Harley because they have so much better value. However, the most comfortable bike I have sat on so far is a Suzuki Boulevard S50. It has been the only brand new stock bike I have been able to sit on with my feet flat in tennis shoes. Do you have any good advice for me in this decision? Should I just take the course, then go around and try out different bikes? I really don't know exactly where to start. thndrmtnmnypnny Dear thndrmtnmnypnny, If possible, get back on a bicycle to learn/relearn balance issues, borrow a stick shift car for coordination understanding, and have hubby show you the motorcycle controls. You can even sit on his bike (not running!) and then run through pretend drills (it won't hurt the bike to pull in and push on hand and foot controls and will give you a feel for things before the course). Take a look at my Motorcycles for Short Riders list for input from readers on the bike they ride, their height, and the modifications they made so the bike fits. It's great that you've found one that you can flat foot on, but that shouldn't limit you as there are standard alterations that can be made, Harley or otherwise! As to value . . . well, all motorcycles lose value right off the lot, and long term value is based not only on the make/model, but how it was rode, etc. If you want a snapshot, look at the NADA Motorcycle Guide and look up the S50 (it use to be called an Intruder 800)and your hubby's Harley, but five and ten years old, and see what on average they are going for. Have a great time planning out your next steps . . .
it's an adventure well worth checking out!
Mama Friday, June 2 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Debra, The site you mention for the trailer is under
construction, so links to see close-ups aren't working. I found another
site that looked totally pet-happy: Cool
Dog Motorcycle Trailers. I know there is more online, but will stop
shopping now !
Mama Friday, June 2 Biker Ally Gritz to Glitz Woman's Motorcycle Tour In cooperation with Colorado-based Turkey Creek Motorcycle Tours, Biker Ally Magazine is proud to announce its first sponsored motorcycle tour. If you want to experience great motorcycle roads, deluxe accommodations, great food, the camaraderie of other women riders, then this is the tour you have been waiting for. The Biker Ally Gritz to Glitz Tour runs eight days and nine nights from July 30th to August 6th beginning and ending in Conifer, Colorado. This is a challenging and exciting ride for the experienced motorcyclist. For further information contact info@turkeycreektours.com or call Toll Free (888) 763-6185 for additional questions or to arrange your tour or visit the website at www.turkeycreektours.com, click on Colorado tours, then Gritz to Glitz Tour. Friday, June 2 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Perplexed, Friday, June 2 Dear VTwin Mama, I have always wanted a sports bike and was really disappointed. I saw that the Ninja 250s were lowered, perhaps he was wrong? I would be perfectly happy riding another sports bike that fit my height range but these two, plus a few others were recommended for me as a beginner. I am 5'1" and have short legs. Please help, I really really want a sports bike and am crushed by his response. I also tried what I think is a Honda Shadow 500, that needed about an inch or two for flat foot, which is what I am looking for. Victoria Wong Dear Victoria, Now, that's not to say it's going to be easy. The fact is that typically the sport bikes sit higher to begin with and at your height, it's not a shoe-in! Read my Lowering the Bike pages and you'll find previous letters from Ninja and other sport bike riders. Also, just to let you know, there are women-specific sporty riding sites with their own discussion forums that you might like . . . hop onto my Women's Sites page to find these! While there are many search tools, I use Want Facts . . . click on Research New, Motorcycles, By Feature, then choose and define what you would consider and it will pull up a list of all bikes within your parameters! Good tool before you go shopping again! That dealer you mentioned could use a wake up call. Do
your research and then visit other dealers, but this time with more
knowledge. When you do purchase a bike, call or stop by the first dealer
and let them know they lost the sale because of their total unwillingness
to discuss how you could own your very own motorcycle that fits!
Mama Friday, June 2 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kevin, Saturday, June 3 Hi VTwin Mama, Dear Onyxvstar, Meanwhile, I turned to Mark Zimmerman, author of The Essential Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance, to get his take on your motorcycle longevity question. His reply: Interesting question but a bit like asking is it hotter in the city than in the summer? The problem here is that I don't know the bike's service history or how the rider treats it. With regular and properly performed routine maintenance a motorcycle should last indefinitely. In this case I'd suggest that down the road you can expect things like the steering head and wheel bearings to fail as well as the clutch, rings, valve guides and seat foam. The question is how long before that happens and frankly there is no practical way to predict that. In my experience a well maintained motorcycle should last forever, or as long as you feel like rebuilding the thing. If I were pressed, and knowing something about Yamaha's build quality, I'd think you can expect 250K out of the bottom end, maybe 150K out of the top end (maybe more if you don't hammer it). Things like steering head bearings and fork seals can last anywhere from 30K to 500K while components like clutches and brakes go from 10K to about 50K. This question really has no hard and fast answer. Old British bikes normally went 20K on a top end and 40K on the bottom but I've seen any number of them with 75-to 100 K on them that had never been apart. Likewise I've got a buddy, an HD mechanic that always orders low compression police bikes, his usually go 300K before the sheet metal rusts out (he's an all weather rider). Sorry to be so vague here, but like I said there's no
practical way to predict the life cycle of anything other than rule of
thumb or formal destruction testing so in this case my advice is to just
ride the thing until you're tired of it and don't worry about life
expectancy. Take care,
Mark Saturday, June 3 Dear VTwin Mama, I too failed the MSF test. I froze during the emergency stop, crashed and "burned," and broke my wrist on the fall. Although I failed the test I got back on and rode the bike back to the garage. That short but relaxing ride was what convinced me I wanted to try again. My husband bought me a Suzuki 250 and parked it in the car port so I could sit on it and dream while my wrist healed. Once I healed we set up the practice test in an empty parking lot and I practiced until I was confent I could pass the test. That was 10 years and more than 60,000 miles ago. My adive to new riders would be to take the MSF class, start with a small cc bike that you can flat foot and won't intimidate you, and then practice, practice, practice . . . especially those slow speed skills you learned in the class. Thanks for listening! Kriss Dear Kriss, Saturday, June 3 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Abimael, Saturday, June 3 To Mak who offered a take on the CF Moto auto tranny motorcycles: Thanks for the dealer info you provided for the CF Moto/Baron automatic motorcycles. I was all ready to make a road trip to visit one of the dealers you listed, only to find 2 of them are right here in the Minneapolis area. I had previously sent email to the CF Moto contact on their web site asking about dealers or distributors in the US, but I never received any response. Interestingly, of the dealers you listed, Twin City Scooters and Bargain Jims have the same phone number on their web sites. Thanks again, Dave in Eagan, MN (note from Mama: yes, I see on the English version of the CF Moto site that they have a distribution network link, but it doesn't then take you to a list of US dealers. Hmmm . . . glad Mak's list happened to provide local dealers for you!) Saturday, June 3 From Judi who is working on her Sporty for a better fit: Just wanted to update you on my seat. I called LePera and spoke with Ashley. She was so helpful with how to take measurements and in choosing a seat that would work for me. The seat was sent to me uncovered so that I could try it and it was perfect! Now I'm waiting to get the finished seat back. I also put 11" shocks on the back and my son is going to lower the front for me also. I'm really looking forward to having all the adjustments made and see how much more I like my bike! Thanks for all your help. Judi (note from Mama: glad to be of help and happy to hear that you're making changes that will make this motorcycle fit you!) For D. who is getting back into riding after many years: Hi D. Welcome back! Here I am at 53, 22 years later, kids in college, and now it's "MY" turn to ride again!!!!! Years ago I had a Kawasaki 440, now I have the Suzuki S50 and I love it. I am so very proud of myself that I am still able to get on a bike and just go, it is an experience of feeling so high in a natural way!!!!!!!!! However, I am having a hard time finding boots in a size five. I have tried online, many, many shoe stores, but can't seem to find anything that fits, also I have tried the kids department. I remember I had this problem years back, and what I did is get a pair of boys work boots. But I really would like to wear black leather motorcycle boots, can anyone help? Thanks, and D, good luck to you! Have fun and be safe, Hugs, Christine (note from Mama: thanks for letting D. know she isn't the only one reentering the world of motorcycle riding! As to the boots, I'm hoping other size 5s write in with what they like!) Tuesday, June 6 Dear VTwin Mama, My question is, would a system like this qualify for an insurance discount? The Cyclone system also offers a paging system too, if that matters. Or would I only get a discount on insurance if I combine a product like Cyclone with another type of security device, like a LUMA disc lock? Thank you, John V. Dear John, To drill down on this issue a bit further, I contacted Progressive's Product Manager for all Motorcycle Insurance Products, Marcy Gray. She notes that one reason for not offering discounts is that verification of system installations is labor intensive and costly. She does understand that from a consumer perspective this doesn't sound like a good reason to withhold discounts, so is in the process of re-thinking all of this. Ms. Gray does firmly believe that tracking systems result in significantly less damage on the motorcycle because often it can be recovered before it's chopped up for parts. Currently she is in contact with Lojack, a company who is willing to verify that their device was actually installed on the bike in a real time, electronic manner, so this type of discount many be coming soon. Still, anything you add to a motorcycle that hampers its
theft, is worthwhile exploring. Not every potential theft is attempted by
someone with real knowledge. At a minimum I would always lock the steering
column (on bikes that offer this), add a wheel disc lock, and put it in a
garage when possible.
Mama Tuesday, June 6 For thndrmtnmnpnny who is 5' and looking for a motorcycle: Hi my name is Christine. First I would like to say that I have purchased a (S50) Suzuki, I am just five feet, LOL, and I have very short legs. I have shopped around to every dealer looking for the perfect bike just for me, I have also went back to the same dealers several times to make sure I didn't miss anything. What I really wanted was the Shadow Deluxe, but the foot controls were extended too far forward, the bike was just to wide between my short legs, so after almost giving up, I found the Suzuki S50. When I sat on it, I said this is it, this is my bike, I love everything about it, it has a lot of power at 805 cc's. I have rode it for two hours straight and felt that I could have went another two hours, it is a great bike. I dressed it up with floppy saddle bags and tassels on the handle bars, looks beautiful. Buying a bike is a very personal decision, you really must feel good about it when you sit on a bike you will know right away if it is for you. So good luck to you and have fun!!! Blessings. Christine (note from Mama: yes, shorter riders have more challenges on bike fit . . . thanks for sharing how you proceeded and what fit you. My Motorcycles for Short Riders page chronicles a list of bikes by make/model, the rider's height and the modifications they made! Also, I'll repeat that I'd love to get more detailed motorcycle reviews from all my readers for my Motorcycle Reviews pages . . . truly a way to help another person considering a certain motorcycle get the inside scoop from a woman!) Tuesday, June 6 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear KSC, At your height and weight I'm thinking you'll have less physical issues with a bigger bike, but as always, I feel that good physical condition (leg and arm strength) go a long way to being comfortable with a bigger motorcycle. If you have a good sense of balance this also helps! Although the 650 has more power than a typical motorcycle used in a course, even a 250cc bike needs to be treated with respect. This means taking whatever bike you choose to a wide, empty parking lot for practice, and more practice, before taking short, preplanned road rides. Mapping out baby steps is the key to becoming one with your bike and keeps you from becoming overwhelmed. I wish you the best in your October course and remember,
learning is always good, so no matter what happens, learn, learn, learn!
Then practice, practice, practice!
Mama Tuesday, June 6 For Tim who was trying to repair the comm system on his HD Ultra: I too have an 2004 Ultra. I have had four antennas break off. The dealer thinks I am riding too fast. I think it is a design problem. Watch how the antenna shakes violently at idle. All mine have broken approximately one inch above the bottom spring. Replacement cost is $40. I'll sell the bike next. Anonymous (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your take on the situation . . . I think we would all agree that exterior systems should be able to handle typical road conditions and speeds. Given the dealer's viewpoint on this, you may wish to contact HD yourself. At the bottom of this linked page is the customer service number to Milwaukee headquarters.) Tuesday, June 6 Dear VTwin Mama, I am unsure whether I should have both feet completely flat on the ground or should I practice when I stop just having one foot completely on the ground? If I put both down I get them there but just the balls of me feet. Do think this is safe? I have been out a few times and my confidence is building but it is in the back of my mind. I enjoy riding my bike but would like to get past this mental block. Look forward to hearing from you. . A Lady Rider from Inverness (in Scotland) Dear Lady Rider, I'll also note that beginning riders find practice with the throttle/clutch is easier if they can duck-walk (feet paddling along the ground) the motorcycle to get a feel for things. And moving the bike into a position when one has run out of room in the parking lot is also easier if one can plant feet and duck-walk the bike. Since the bike has already been lowered, please take a
closer look at your riding boots. Consider getting something with more
heel, but be mindful how this would then interact with your overall foot
position on the peg-to-lever. See if this doesn't make the difference you
are looking for, as yes, it's important if you feel you can't do your best
learning with the added pressure of tippy-toe.
Mama Tuesday, June 6 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Anon, Tuesday, June 6 Dear VTwin Mama, Anyway, glad to see this site is still here. Michele Dear Michele, Wednesday, June 7 Dyna Glide and LS650 Savage for Sale Dear VTwin Mama, The first is a 2000 Harley Davidson FXD Dyna Glide, it has approximately 18,000 miles on it with an SS carb and Thunderheader exhaust. It also has leather saddlebags, highway pegs and a luggage rack, we are asking $10,000/obo for the Harley. This is my husband's bike -- he recently bought a Road King. The second bike is my bike, a 1988 Suzuki LS650 Savage with 11,500 miles. I am 5'2, 120 lbs. and it fits me like a glove. It is small and light enough to build confidence, but powerful enough to keep up in traffic and with other bikes. I am asking $700/obo for this one. I am selling because I just bought a Harley Sportster. If anyone is interested I have some pics I can email upon request. We are located near Yosemite National Park in California. Our email is: otis@sierratel.com. Lisa Wednesday, June 7 For Christine who is trying to find size 5 leather riding boots that fit: Hi. I have always worn a size 5 shoe, but I have found that I can wear a 6 in Harley boots, if I insert a thick insole. I have custom orthotics, which are exactly like thick insoles, so I put them into my favorite boots that have a 1 1/2 inch heel, and I am now 2 full inches taller!! and this really helps with flat footing my bike, since I am only 4'10". Linwebs in Oklahoma (note from Mama: interesting on all points!) Christine, the first thought that came to mind is Army Navy Surplus. I understand the frustration: my mom wears a size 3 and she found the right fit in Altama Combat Boots (ha-ha, my mama wears combat boots). Combat Boots like Altama and other brands come in black leather and nobody would know the diff. Jennifer (note from Mama: spectacular!) I certainly don't wear size 5, but I checked out my two favorite online shoe sites and they both had several styles of black leather motorcycle boots in size 5. Check these out. www.6pm.com (formerly Shoedini) and www.zappos.com (my favorite). Thanks, Tricia (note from Mama: aha!) Wednesday, June 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Liebe (Dear) Pauline, How wonderful to hear from a young woman rider looking
for other women in order to share in the joy of riding a motorcycle! Have
you seen the Women's International Motorcycle Association? They have a German
chapter which can be found by visiting this page and have
approximately 340 members. I would visit this site and make contact. I
hope this helps!
Mama Wednesday, June 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Also, the instructors didn't practice what they preached, road speeds, protective clothing, etc. At the final exam, some people they liked were allowed to take the exam over on the spot, while others they didn't like were not allowed. $280 down the drain! Jos Dear Jos, It's possible you are a rider that already had basic skills well enough in hand, and then I can see that you were chomping at the bit for more "real road" instruction and practice. This is more a function of the MSF Experienced RiderCourse where you use your own motorcycle and work on quick stop maneuvers, cornering and swerving, along with other things. However, there are other skill learning/polishing strategies which you may wish to consider. Check my Education Center page for lots of books and DVDs. Ultimately, if you feel the course was misrepresented to
you, or you wish to air your concerns about any portion of the instruction
and testing, contact the
main MSF headquarters and let them know your viewpoints.
Mama Wednesday, June 7 For KSC who is considering a VStar 650 as a first motorcycle: I purchased a 2005 650 V-Star. Can't say enough good things about it. It handles great. Adding a windshield makes it much easier to ride in wind, etc. I'm 200 pounds and have no trouble cruising at 70 mph. Would not recommend two up on the bike. Many extras you can buy for this bike. 45 mpg not to shabby. No chain to fool with. Foot pads for comfort long rides. Jos (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Thursday, June 8 More for Christine who is trying to find size 5 leather riding boots that fit: I wear a size 5 and have
definitely had good luck with Harley-Davidson boots, either directly at a
dealership or through websites like www.bootbay.com
or www.shoebuy.com.
Shipping is free too. If I know the name of a particular boot,
searching eBay for my size is sometimes beneficial as well. Many
times the boots are being sold or auctioned brand new. Not all
styles are offered in size 5, but as my husband can attest to, I have no
shortage of boots. My personal favorites are the H-D Starter Switch
boots. Between lowering my bike and wearing just the right boot, my
riding comfort/confidence increased drastically. Thursday, June 8 For Pauline in Germany who is looking for other women to ride with: I had to drop in and say "Wie Gehts!" Meine Eltern haben eingewandert aus Deutschland in 1952. (How are you doing! My parents immigrated from Germany in 1952.) My German is horrible and that was my best effort, so I'll move to English. I live in the US, but am glad to learn there are other German girls out there who ride. Wilkommen und Bis Spater! (Welcome and until later!) Monica (note from Mama: my parents came to the U.S. in 1954! Thanks for letting Pauline know she has found caring people here at VTwin Mama!) Thursday, June 8 Dear VTwin Mama, The Hyosung model is a little hard to find in the Midwest (relatively new here compared to others) but I like both . Wondering if any one has input on either (especially the GV250 -- info is more readily available on the V-Star) Any one out there ridden the GV250? All reviews and articles claim much more power, not to mention better looks and fit for taller people (I'm 5'10") than other 250's. A little hesitant about such a small engine as I'm in a rural area and have to be on highways to get around, but think maybe starting smaller and then moving up might be a good idea. Your thoughts? Midwest Gal Dear Midwest Gal, On my Type of Bike to Ride pages you'll find links to 250cc bike comparison articles in the left hand column which you may find interesting. You might also want to visit Korider.com, which is a site for all things Hyosung, with its own discussion forums and information! Given the Hyosung is difficult to find in your area, make sure that parts and service are available nearby! You don't mention in this letter how you'll be learning, but I offer a wonderful learning to ride article that helps new riders understand more about their options (course or self taught), things about themselves and learning, and tons of tips and insights from women who have been there and done that! It really helps one noodle out steps and things to consider! Otherwise, you can hop onto my Education Center page for lots of books and DVDs to help! Many women report they prefer to start smaller and then move up, some have started mid-range (like that VStar) and then had to "come back down" for awhile, while others wished they had started mid-range to begin with! Which is best for you? Hard to say. I'll simply add that confidence lost is harder to regain than the "pain in the butt" of buying small and then selling to move up, especially if it happens fast (i.e. your learning curve is fast). Whatever direction you decide to take, it takes practice.
Ok, off you go to do some more thinking about all of this. Remember to
follow your gut, and whatever opinions you receive, make sure that YOU are
doing what YOU think is best.
Mama Thursday, June 8 Dear VTwin Mama, And for anyone who has ever thought of a dream trip; make it happen . . . Because You Can! Cat (aka Biker Nun from Hell) Dear Cat, Thursday, June 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Linda, Friday, June 9 Advocacy Opportunity Dear VTwin Mama, Dear VTwin Mama, Unfortunately it has just developed an annoying problem. As soon as the bike is warm, 8 miles plus, the tickover has started increasing at will from 1200rpm to 2800rpm. I have tried all the obvious snagged cables, lubricated linkages, stuck choke, etc., all to no avail. Can anyone help? Andy Reade in Liverpool Dear Andy, Normally when an engines idle speed increases as it warms up you're faced with one of three situations. 1. the pilot screw setting is too lean The first step is to revisit all of the carburetor
adjustments. Set the pilot adjustment slightly towards the rich side and
the idle at a bare minimum. Only set the idle speed after the bike is
fully warmed up. If the idle speed continues to climb after the bike is
warm or will only idle at a very high speed, spray a bit of carburetor
cleaner at the various inlet joints, when you find the one that's leaking
the engine speed will climb. There are some ignition problems that can
make a bike respond the way your readers is, primarily sticking advance
units, but that's certainly not the problem here. There is also a
possibility that an internal carburetor fault, perhaps a dirty air bleed
or air bypass problem or maybe a stuck AB valve (if the carbs have
them) might be at fault. But I subscribe to the KISS theory of repair so
I'd look at the easy to fix stuff first.
Mark Friday, June 9 Hi VTwin Mama, Anyway, I wanted to submit my modifications (or lack thereof) for the '06 Softail Deluxe to help other short riders. I'm 5'2". I didn't have to do anything to the bike. I just wear my "traditional" biker/engineer boots (I don't know the official name for them) with the 2" heels . . . you know, the kind that make you look like Frankenstein. I may get the seat foam whittled down a bit in front, so I have more flat footed "Flintstone power" for pushing the bike backwards into parking spaces and such. I am so happy!!! This is the very first bike I've ever owned (I've been riding for about 23 years . . . . on and off with raising kids and all) that I didn't have to modify the bike so I could ride it!! Harley seems to be designing bikes with girls in mind now!! (Of course, don't tell THAT to any guy who owns a Softail Deluxe) LOL Thanks for your site. I refer all my girlfriends there, and guy friends who want to buy a bike for their woman. :) Take Care! Claudia Dear Claudia, Friday, June 9 Even more for Christine who is trying to find size 5 leather riding boots that fit: I wear a size 5-1/2 shoe, so finding boots was a
challenge, other than finding Boys' sizes. I found lots of boots and
leather riding items (chaps, gloves, etc.) at a popular saddle shop here (Clippity
Clop Saddle Shop on Rt 82 for those in NE Ohio). I got my Harley boots
there, which have straps to secure the laces so that they won't get caught
on foot controls. Stuffing laces in your boot is painful after a while. I
think these stores are also called tack shops. I never would have guessed
they'd have gear for motorcycle riders! Friday, June 9 Dear VTwin Mama, I've gotten a Canine Camper and put on my seat with me, it fits perfectly, rides great, easy to get off and on the bike ( I have it bungeed on), it gives her room to move, breeze to keep cool or if it's cool I can close down her doors and windows, we are loving it! May not look cool as T-Bags, but her head can't poke out, she has room to move and area to see, she sleeps just fine while riding too, has a nice sheepskin type removable bottom in it as well,, its like a tent for dogs,, but is working great for us on the bike and off! Now I am only trying to find a better looking, quicker off and on for the bungee cord idea. Just thought I'd share, this is working great for us! Of course Cricket is about as large as she will get, so this smallest canine camper bag is big enough for us. Pam Dear Pam, Friday, June 9 Hi Petra, I want to tell you this to help reinforce what I already know this group is all about. Aware, safe riders. This is a reminder whether new rider or experienced, keep doing what you are doing, honing your skills, be aware of yourself, are you tired, are you alert, always scanning. I know most of you know this, but I will say it just in case, please read with positive thoughts and think what would you do to avoid or prevent this situation. This did NOT end badly, considering. I was fine and the other lady riders I was with were fine. Last Saturday I was riding with 6 people. 3 guys, 3 girls. I had not ridden with the 3 men before. At first I was riding in 4th position and paired myself up with a guy I felt was a very safe and strong rider who was riding in the 5th position. Our leader was going through yellow lights and wouldn't you know, 5th guy and I talked about it when we were stopped at a light. Which is ok, but keep in mind the full group and was this the best decision. We were in Saturday backed up traffic, so we diverted. I said go west and leader guy decided to go east. No problem, going out of our way is the point of motorcycling. He was lost, no problem, 5th guy caught up with leader guy and we changed to 5th guy and I rode 1st and second to get us to our destination. Leader guy moved to the 3rd spot. We enjoyed a great ride along more open roads. We were coming up to the intersection of 176 and Main. The light turned yellow and our new leader decided to slow down, it was a 30 mile an hour area and the 6 of us would not get through with the light already being yellow. There were people surrounding the intersection collecting donations of some kind. I saw him slow down and I did too. I cannot tell you exactly why, but I made a split decision to go through the light when I saw his bike move out of the corner of my eye and I saw what looked like his bike being carried into the center of the intersection. I KEPT MY EYES ON THE ROAD, told myself stay focused go through, pull over and then run back. As I was thinking this I heard a bike go down. I pulled over as soon as I could safely do so and hauled back to the intersection. Yes, you know what I am going to say. Previous leader guy wasn't looking, in a habit of running yellow lights and I was told he was riding too close. He went right through our leader and dragged both bikes into the intersection and both bikes went down. The men did not have helmets on and were extremely lucky. I was told the 3rd guy lost control and popped off the bike. I pulled over and ran back, checked on the people first then helped clear the bikes out of the intersection. The men were very lucky. The other riders had plenty of time to stop. They were alert and had plenty of space between them. The bikes in all seriousness were not in bad shape, considering. Bent crash bar (yikes, that was the 3rd guy, the part that went into the1st guys leg, ouch). Mostly broken tail lights and a bent fender. They called a flat bed truck instead of attempting to ride the bikes. Both Harley's, sturdy bikes for sure (don't worry, still love you my Yama). After the cops came, made sure everyone was ok, we sat down to lunch. I am not judging anyone here. I think this is important. The guy who was not alert and doing his own thing and ran through the light and hence the bike, did not have his M license. His comment was he knows how to ride. He is an extremely nice guy, not a bad rider, but could use some additional understanding. Accidents happen. He could have minimized the possibility of that accident happening. He said he knows how to ride a bike, why take the test. The 3 girls, of course we were all over him to take the MSF class and his test. I figured if he didn't want to hear it from a girl, at least take the test to get a discount on his insurance. Hoping that might speak to him. Long story long: 1) Be alert. Scan the road, the street light, is the don't
walk flashing yet? The leader is already checking this out for you, but
being aware yourself helps you anticipate what the leader might do so you
don't find yourself having to over react by the time you have to stop or
speed up, etc. I was the most fortunate in this. Even though the others did not really get hurt, the ones who witnessed the entire scene from behind I think had it tougher than me. I stayed calm and focused. I didn't have to witness someone popping off their bike or see the bikes colliding in full. All in all, this was not a bad accident AT ALL. But it could have been avoided. No one is perfect and not expected to be. You can minimize things like this by being aware. Thinking, what would you do in this situation, keep your calm, keep your eyes on the road, not the distraction. This was minor. Accidents do happen. Adding awareness and one rider at a time, we make a huge difference out there. Tuck this away as education and ride on!! Sandra in Chicago Dear Sandra, I was pondering on the bike registration and insurance
process, and how this rider could have either, but concluded that one can
get insurance and then register a bike in order to get a plate, and never
show one's license. The only time a "M" comes into play is if
there is a problem. Hmmmm . . . .
Mama Saturday, June 10 Hi Petra, So, in 2 riding seasons I have gone from the 125 Suzuki., to a 500 Vulcan, to a 650 VStar . . . and now I just brought home my new love, another VStar. This one is a 1100. I just love it. I find that all the fears of a bigger cc, bigger tank/seat, heaver bike, were all fears for nothing. The bike rides and handles better than any of the others I have ridden. Then today my darling husband treated me with the keys to his '89 Harley Davidson FLH (this was a fear and longing that I have had for a long time ). I wanted to ride a Harley really bad. Before I bought the V* 1100 I test rode a 1200 Sporty. Found that the Sporty was not the type of ride I was after and bought the V*. Now after riding the FLH and the Sporty I can compare the two. Well there is no comparison. I love the FLH, but I love the V* also. They are quick with power, but they are comfortable for longer rides. Did I mention how happy and excited I am!!! My hubby has warned me not to be getting any big ideas about moving into his bike . . . lol. Finally being able to experience and live out your dream is a wonderful thing. Trying to stifle out a dream is a very unhealthy and sad thing. M. Wright Dear M., NOT! I'm soooo jazzed for you . . . such great accomplishments in two riding seasons is awesome and that hubby handed over his beloved motorcycle for a test spin is testament to your hard work in overcoming challenges. More and more I'm noting incoming letters about transitioning to a bigger bike, and that in the balance of things, it's not as big a deal for many as they thought it would be. It's one of the hardest "things" to get across and I see that no matter how much we say it, the fact is that each rider has to cross that "jump" herself to know it! And if it does prove to be a challenge, then practice is the key! Congratulations on the newest motorcycle . . . I'm just
grinning knowing you're out on the road living your dream of being a confident
rider and sharing that joy with your hubby dearest.
Mama Saturday, June 10 Dear VTwin Mama, I am 5'2" and weigh about 104lbs, very petite but not really a weakling. My dream was always to have a Harley and have made that dream come true recently. I wanted a light weight Harley and bought a 2000 Sportster 883 XLH. While bike shopping for days, this bike called out to me and I knew it was to be my bike. I got a totally awesome deal on it and was ecstatic . . . until now. I have my motorcycle temps, and I am enrolled in a rider course for the beginning of August. A very good friend who has been riding for 30+ yrs let me practice one day on his little Buell Blast. Having driven a stick automobile I really am comfortable with the clutch concept, but after practicing just that one day, I am terrified to even try to learn on my bike now (the clutch on the Buell was way, way, way too sensitive). Well, that and the fact that just about EVERY forum I have checked out pretty much say NOT to start out with a Sportster. My heart is broken. I have ordered a Saddleman Cobra gel seat (brings the seat height the lowest possible with any aftermarket seat out there). My bike was owned by someone who took long trips with it. Had a thick padded touring seat . . . I could stand and be totally flatfooted with that seat, but something just didn't feel right control wise. I have also ordered the EZ clutch and "trigger" levers. I want so badly to practice on my bike and I am excited to put these things on it, but all the reviews of this bike are scaring me to death. I know the bike is top heavy. I have heard it over and over again. I have started doing exercises to strengthen my upper body. I also bought and installed a crash bar. I am just so terrified now that I will not be able to handle this bike, even with all the extras I will be adding to it. I feel like maybe I should sell it now and buy a heavier, more weight balanced Harley that gets better reviews. I just bought my first Harley and made one of my dreams come true . . . I should be happy, and instead I am very, very sad and apprehensive now. Julie Dear Julie, The great thing about the motorcycling community is that everyone has an opinion. The bad thing is that everyone has an opinion. What happens is that it's hard for a new rider to determine what to listen to! The answer: listen to your gut instinct. And you are doing this beautifully, from the choice of motorcycle (heck, you fell in love!) to modifying it in ways you think will best serve you. I personally think you're on the right track! Every bike, and I do mean every single one of them, has general handling characteristics and then ones specific to the year/make/model. For instance, all bikes pivot around their center of gravity (COG) on a curve, but some bikes have a higher COG which requires that you give the bike a bit more of a "positive command" to accomplish this. Yes, that Blast has a clutch engage point that is right at the beginning of the "letting out" and the throttle gas makes that bike want to go (the first gear is designed to move the bike out, and now!). Each bike's clutch engage point is different and has different gearing so when you apply gas, it moves out slower or faster. I can guarantee you that the Sporty handles differently than the Blast! So, I would get back on the Blast (if possible), make sure you're in a wide open parking lot (if possible) and keep working on the very basics. The point is to practice with this bike, take the course (and you'll see how that bike's controls are different but ultimately do the same thing!) and then you'll be ready to get your bike to that empty parking lot (school, church, etc. and have your friend ride it there is necessary) and then start with the basic drills all over again. But on your bike! That beautiful bike that is calling to you and can't wait for you to become one with it! There are tons of people who love the bike that you've purchased. There are tons of people who have taken the course and then graduated to this bike. There are tons of people who stay with this bike and others who then, with some riding time under their belt, explore other bikes that capture their attention. You are in good company! Your general jitters also make you a card-carrying member of a very important group . . . new riders . . . and their jitter letters are on my Jitters pages . . . YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Welcome to the adventure in riding! Now, straighten up your spine, take another deep breath, plan out your steps from now till the course, and get on with it! Copy and print out this quote from Ambrose Redmoon: "Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear." Stick it in your pocket every time you ride and haul it out as needed! YOU CAN DO IT!
Mama Saturday, June 10 More for Mike and his wife who are considering a Hyosung GV 250 for her to start on: JUST DO IT! I am a 50 year old woman and the Hyosung Alpha 250 is the best gift my husband has ever given me. I was scared to death for the first couple of months, but kept at it, a little further each time. I also didnt pressure myself with a calendar goal. I did this at MY pace with some gentle encouragement from my husband. I have ridden all the 250s out there, Virago, Rebel, etc. The Alpha 250 has better balance, better shifting and MUCH better rides at speeds over 45 mph. Ive taken it to 65 on some highways and never got the shakes & vibrations of the other models. I recently got my license on this bike and, while I took a few lessons, the ability to sit flat-footed was a huge help in my early months of practice. Im 5 3. Im considering getting a larger bike as the torque on my beloved Alpha doesnt allow me to keep up with my Harley-riding friends as quickly from a stoplight as Id like. I know I can sell my bike in a heartbeat, but I really dont think I will. Its so much fun to pack up the saddle bags & head off for a 100 mile smile. Motorcycle riding has changed my life; I only wish I had started earlier. Ride & have fun. Judy (note from Mama: thank you for sharing your views on the 250cc bikes and congrats on your own awesome pathway on learning to ride . . . you have much to be proud of!) Saturday, June 10 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Bob, Saturday, June 10 Dear VTwin Mama, They've been selling 250 Pagsta's here in Oz for about a year now. I think these 250 choppers are going to be a huge hit worldwide, especially with countries like Oz that have a 250cc learners limit for a year in some states. The price is great, just the thing for local/city riding, and leaves every other 250 Japanese custom for dead. Kevin in Sydney Dear Kevin, Sunday, June 11 For Julie who has the jitters about her new bike and getting started: I was in the same situation when I purchased my '99 HD 883. I loved the bike, but was intimidated by it's weight and the reviews that it was "top heavy." I started out on a '88 Suzuki Savage, which is about 130 lbs. lighter. I am 5'2", 120 lbs. What I found to really help was to follow my husband (going slow) on his bike around corners and such on back streets without much traffic around. It helped me to know that if something did happen, he would be there to help me, and I could concentrate on riding. I also practiced in parking lots whenever possible to get the feel of slow, tight turns and parking. It really does help. I did drop it once, pulling out from a driveway (let out the clutch too soon, not enough throttle), after beating myself up for a couple of hours, I decided to just chalk it up to experience. No harm done- not to the bike or me. It seems that the Sporty's like to be shifted rapidly, which is sometimes tough for beginners, I know it was for me. But, I am getting better on it every time I ride it and enjoying it more and more. I look forward to each ride. I have put about 400 miles on it so far. It does get easier, just be patient with yourself and the bike. Lisa (note from Mama: thanks for letting Julie know there is hope!) Sunday, June 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Leslie, When you don't back off the throttle on the shift, all that "immediate" throttle (gas) is already there and the bike will lurch as the clutch engages the power to the rear drive system again. Try that and see if that's not the difference. Also, although I'm pretty sure you're not doing this, but just to check, when you let out the clutch, don't let it out in one big "gulp," as engaging the next gear is an "easing out" of the clutch lever. I'm guessing that
somehow this is more natural on the downshift, as on a downshift your
reaction is not to give it more gas. That's why you may be doing it on the
upshift and not the downshift.
Mama Sunday, June 11 Dear VTwin Mama, I had a total abdominal hysterectomy on May 9. My recovery has gone better than textbook, which makes me very happy. I came home from the hospital without the need for pain medication stronger than Tylenol. I started working from home via email five days post-op. At the four-week mark my stamina increased enough to go back to the office every day, almost all day. I'm a very lucky (or a very tough) cookie! Enough back story. My beloved V-Star 1100 Classic is unhappy about being left unridden for a month. My doctor says motorcycling comes under the category of "heavy lifting," which is a definite no-no for some time after surgery. With all the goodies that have been added, "Blue" probably weighs in at just under 700 pounds. I figured that two months after surgery would be plenty of time to start back on short, easy rides. Since making that decision, I've heard one horror story of a woman who started riding two months after the same surgery, and ended up having to have another operation to repair the internal damage it did! I'm hoping other lady riders have stories, good or bad, to share. My doctor evidently doesn't have any experience with lady riders, and she doesn't approve of the fact that I ride at all. I don't want to end up back at the hospital - once was enough - b |
