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Monday, March 31 1st Annual Thunder Run, Southern Oklahoma Dear VTwin Mama, Monday, March 31 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear No Name, Sunday, March 30 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Cindy, Sunday, March 30 In regards to Chicken who has the new-rider jitters: I just love this site! I could so relate to Ann, Judith, and Marigolds comments. Many of us have been there done that and still doing it. It sure makes you feel better when you know you are not alone with your feelings about riding. It is so true the more you ride (truly ride, ride, ride)the more comfortable you begin to feel. I have even found the more I ride... the more I WANT to ride. So all you gals with your intense feelings... things will get better. I am still very much a beginner (have about 4800 miles) and still get the feelings but can tell it is already getting better. Hang in there girls and RIDE SAFE! HDChik Saturday, March 29 Dear VTwin Mama, My husband and I were riding with one of his friends and I asked him what kind of bike did he ride, he responded "The bike I have." We tried to sell the port to no avail -- the market is saturated with Sportster and we would take a loss. I read in a magazine that by replacing the seat, it could bring me lower, so I looked into it. I found out Corbin makes a seat that will bring me down and forward. So I took a risk and ordered the seat. We put the seat on the bike and I sat on it and I could not believe it, I felt comfortable, I was able to reach the handlebars!! I took the bike out Saturday for her first ride and it was great!! I took her out on Sunday and we put over 100 miles in and I had so much fun!!! We started riding at 9:30 and I started to get hungry and asked if we could stop for lunch, as we sat down, I said it must be 2:00pm, my husband said "try 4:30pm." Wow, I could not believe, I rode over 100 miles --- I am sooo happy - I love my bike now, not afraid any more. I am riding a HD 1200 Custom Sportster and wow, I love it - if people tell me, you like that vibrating bike, I tell them, I love that vibrating bike. Angela Dear Angela, Saturday, March 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Betty, Saturday, March 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Along with greater pullback, I believe a narrower width will go a long way to reduce shoulder fatigue. My '89 Virago was extremely comfortable with its normal width and decent pullback. I find the 33 inch width on my 1500 Kawasaki Nomad is way too wide for comfort (all my sympathies to Dawn Penning and her saintly dealings with Kawasaki!!) Putting miles on my Nomad is now bittersweet : ( Paula Dear Paula, Saturday, March 29 For Kathy who was looking for a used gas tank: There are two really good salvage places I have bought parts from for my bike as well as my two son's bikes. One is "Cycle Recycle II" in Indianapolis, Indiana. They sell both new and used parts. Their web site is: http://www.usedmotorcycleparts.com/ and their phone number is 317-634-7550. The other is Cascade's Motorcycle Salvage in Bloomington, Indiana. They do not have a web site that I know of, but their phone number is 812-336-3149. Both places are very nice to deal with and have been quite reliable regarding the parts that we have purchased from them. I hope this information is helpful. Betty (note from Mama: more sources are always helpful!) Friday, March 28 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Map, Friday, March 28 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Nichole, Friday, March 28 More for Chicken who has the new rider jitters: Don't worry, I think everyone starts at least a little chicken. At first I wasn't even sure I wanted to ride, but I got sick of being pillion and so eventually I had a go. I was so scared of any speed in case I couldn't stop. But I rode my bike home from the shop 30km in a 50km zone and was overtaken by a bus! And I made it home. At first I was quite scared to get on my bike. But I only used to go where I knew exactly where I was going. I would go where I regularly drove the car around and I would plan out the route before I went so that there were no tricky or turns or hills or tight round-abouts to deal with. I had a sort of practice route that I would ride to my husband's work and then ride home with him when he knocked off from work. I also used to go to work in my car and then for my lunch break I would go home and get my bike and ride that to work so that I wouldn't have to ride the the rush hour traffic. It took several months, but gradually the fear was overtaken by absolute joy -- and dare I say -- lust. I found I could go increasingly more places and it didn't bother me. My advice would be you pick where and when you want to ride for the moment and for the other times, jump on the back. You'll find that you will enjoy having control of those handle bars before long. Judith in New Zealand (note from Mama: ah yes, the lust of it all! Thanks for sharing!) Dear Biker Chick: I can't call you by your own name, "Chicken", because it's not fair to be so hard on yourself. I marvel that you had the courage to go to Bike Week. My first year riding I went to a small, in comparison, bike show in Ocean City Maryland and thought I would die of embarrassment. I was sure everyone there had been riding for years and was snickering as they watched me walk my Sportster across the field that was being used as a parking lot. But you know what? Every biker there had to start at the beginning also. No one was born with the proper genetics to ride right the first time. I was terrified my first summer riding. I put off riding each time my partner brought it up because I would start to shake just thinking of getting on that bike. One day someone said to me, If you have to work this hard at it maybe you shouldn't ride. Well, that did it for me. Fear or not, I was determined to conquer this. I'm still much better on the straight away. I love to feel the power under me when I take off and leave everyone behind. But give me a narrow street to turn into and I'm heading for mush again. My first year riding I dropped the bike at least seven times. The first time was the day I brought it home and dropped it on my foot. I was out of commission for 6 weeks, just long enough to wait for the first Motor Cycle Safety Class. After that, the bike would lay down on turns. Mainly right turns. Not enough throttle. One time I was going up a very steep hill on a sharp curve. I looked at where I didn't want to go and that was where I ended up. On gravel in a parking lot, down on my right side. Remember, you go where you look. I'm now beginning year three. Yesterday I took the bike out and had some of the same anxiety. It lingers. I don't know why, and I feel kinda silly. I've put 4000 miles on the road now and am still a ninny on the tight turns. I have a Low Rider these days and it's a beauty, but we haven't bonded yet and that' s the key. Ride. Ride. Ride. It's the only way. And I truly do love it. Ann (note from Mama: I still hate coming down steep mountains with deep curves -- going up, no problem,, but coming down -- yikes. But I realize that my body and mind are telling me to take care in these situations, and I've learned at what pace I can comfortably handle something -- and then I stick with. It's like passing a huge truck in a car -- I always cringe because I think they are going to tip over right when I pass them! Imagine me on a bike -- zoom, zoom as quick as I can! ) I have been riding off and on for 33 yrs. I got my Honda 750 Shadow Spirit last June just before I turned 50 yrs. young. I knew I could ride him but I was scared to death. I took the MSF and learned a lot. My instructor got so mad at me for not looking ahead all of the time. I was very nervous too but when I actually got on the road and used the techniques they taught us it was a breeze. Let me tell you, I have gone on many day trips and a couple of weekend trips and I still clinch my butt . . .hehehe. I have to tell my self to let loose and to take deep breathes. This is something my husband Jim and I love to do together. He has been so patient with me and tells all of our fellow riders to let me ride tail so I don't or won't have to go as fast as them. You know men they love to race and speed. Take your time and be patient with yourself. Enjoy riding and don't rush when you are learning. You will get better with more practice. Keep the rubber side down and enjoy the wind in your face. Marigold (note from Mama: thank you for your caring, sharing support!) Thursday, March 27 For Beth who wants to check the oil level on her Intruder 800: Beth, there is a small oil inspection window on the right side of the bike just above the exhaust pipe and behind the foot peg. To do it right, have someone sit or hold the bike level as if you were riding it and a second person get on their knees and see the level of the oil in the window. There are hard to see marks for the oil level. Oil level showing in the middle of the window is full. Cheryl (note from Mama: thanks for the specific info -- now Beth, go get a manual!) Thursday, March 27 For BooBoo who had an accident early on and is feeling icky about riding again" I can certainly understand your feelings about getting back on. One thing that helped me after broad siding a van 2 summers ago (hit sand and gravel in a turn) was to ride behind my husband on his bike. Of course I feel very safe with him since he is such a seasoned rider. It gave me the opportunity to again enjoy motorcycle riding, and by him doing the driving....I was able to sit back and relax as we rode. Do I still get nervous? Of course! But the nervousness only lasts until I get out on the highway and start rolling down the street. Then I relax and enjoy. My biggest fear is actually my own driveway! By the way....I also had a head on collision with my house about five years ago, but that was when I was still learning....BEFORE I took the MSF course! Just take it slow and you will do fine. Mama's advice on joining a group such as WOW or WITW is really good. Lots of support there! Bootygrandma aka Betty (note from Mama: when we know we're not alone is when we are able to go ahead. Thanks for sharing.) Thursday, March 27 For Could/Couldn't who bombed her first riding course and wonders if she's meant to ride: I just wanted to let her know that I took the MSF Safety Course and had no experience riding a motorcycle and never drove a stick (you got it, a real VIRGIN!) I was a nervous wreck most of the time and they told me several times, relax, the only reason you will fail is because you are nervous. Well, I failed, I was so ashamed and when I got home I got on a motorcycle and tried all the things they taught me in class. It was in April that I failed and I signed up to take the safety course a 2nd time and PASSED. What I know now today is the people stress the importance of the safety course and I feel really lucky that I did not have time to form bad habits. I heard it said when the shit hits the fan, you rely on instinct (old habits). I am very grateful that I took the class twice because I learned that stuff real well and I know that because I got on my bike after a LONG northeast winter and I went to my instinct, and it felt great, especially when I went to turn, my head turned and looked in the direction I was going without any thought!! Making sure the driver sees me before I pass through I feel great!!! Angela Kosar (note from Mama: when we don't achieve our goals the first time -- that doesn't mean we failed -- we simply learned we had more to learn! And you smart VTwin Mama sister proved it to yourself!) Thursday, March 27 For Chicken who has the new rider jitters (there's tons of support here!): I am so glad to hear someone else as scared as I am. I am fortunate that we have the MSF course available in our area and I took the class last August. The problem is that I live in Southern Wisconsin so cold weather comes pretty fast. I was unable to ride my Sportster 1200 at all last year, so coming into Spring my feelings are bitter sweet. I am excited that riding season is coming and I have my own bike this year, but on the flip side I am afraid to get out there and ride. A lot of my friends (mostly men) are telling me just to hop on and ride, I don't think I have the confidence for that. I recently signed up for another MSF course to start in May, I know it won't take away my traffic jitters, but I think it will help me get more comfortable with my swerves and handling. My husband agrees that if I feel uncomfortable it sure wouldn't hurt to take the course again. And about taking the bike to Daytona, I think that would scare me too. My husband and I have already talked about me riding my own bike to the 100th Anniversary in Milwaukee. Even though I think it would be great to ride my own bike, I think I will it would be to my best interest to ride on the back of my husband's bike. Too many people, too many crazy riders and too much opportunity for accidents and my feeling is that I am too inexperienced to put myself and the people I am riding with in that situation. Sue Phillips in WI (note from Mama: way to gauge and stick by your gut feelings on all of this -- that shows true VTwin Mama smarts!) I just read your latest newsletter and can totally relate to "Chickens" story and feeling fear when just looking at her bike. She's fortunate having an understanding husband and also someone to go riding with. I, on the other hand, recently purchased a new Harley and feel jitters every time I start my bike up and go for a ride around my neighborhood. I only have 70 miles on it and been sticking close to home and avoiding traffic like the plague. This is the first street bike I owned. Growing up, I rode dirt bikes, but when I took the beginner rider and street skills course this past summer and received the road test waiver, I hadn't ridden a bike in 20 years! I keep hoping these nerves of mine will subside and in time gain confidence in my riding abilities, I hope I'm able to find a riding partner as I think I'd have more nerve riding in traffic that way and gain time in the seat as well. It's tough because I absolutely love my bike! But I just wish I'd be able to enjoy it more and hope I can one day. Sincerely, Jeanine (note from Mama: thanks for letting Chicken know she's not alone, and having the courage to say so "outloud." So dearest Jeanine, it's time for you to consider all the VTwin Mamas out there as your "right" partner -- they've got a world of experience and understanding and can form the "right" mini support group -- so check out those links to the women's riding organizations and make contact as quickly as possible. There is no reason for you to sit home alone or get stuck cruising your little home area-- what will the neighbors think?!?!) DO NOT QUIT! You are doing great for only riding 50 miles. I'm up to just about 1000 miles and can guarantee you that you will become more comfortable as your mileage increases. One thing my husband did was get me out there with his friends. They put me ( and my little Virago 250) between their big bikes and kind of discouraged cars from getting too close to me. I felt very safe. We went on several day rides this way; stopping for lunch, stopping to see the views, etc. (anything to give me a bit of a break). The guys actually said they really had a good time because so often they simply speed their afternoons away when they all go by themselves. This way they got to slow down and enjoy the views, the conversation, etc. Now my husband and I can go by ourselves and I'm so much more confident. I'm still working on trusting myself to go on the freeways without anyone else with me, but I know that as my mileage increases that will come. So, hang in there and be patient with yourself. Gail (note from Mama: yup, practice is the key. And realizing that not everyone out there just rides perfect right off the bat -- that's a biggee!) Chicken and you are
not. It might be worth your while to find the nearest class and have
a weekend away from home. Get a motel room, take the classes and
enjoy the weekend. Stay an extra day to rest and contemplate the
classes. Check out bike shops. I have been riding with my husband a lot the past 4 years behind him. My husband got me a 1998 750 Honda Shadow ACE for my Christmas Present. Not that I wanted one, but he thought it would be nice to ride together. So..... being a mom with 4 teenage daughters, I also had a lot of fears. The first thing you gotta, I mean really gotta do...is be true to your self. Is this what you really, really, want to do with your husband? Ride beside him, or behind him. If he is really supportive of your wants, he will support you in your decision. There are those who like to ride in back and those who like to ride on their own. If the decision is to learn to ride on your own, then TAKE YOUR TIME!!! Practice, Practice, Practice till you are confident starting and stopping in neighborhoods first. Go slow in the beginning when learning. Just like when you learned to drive a car, I'm sure you didn't hit the interstate first and become an expert. Reaction time is important, and making the right decisions in a split second takes conditioning. My husband had me ride in front of him on my bike first. Making sure I shifted just right, clutched, gassed, mirrors were just right...the little stuff that is in fact not so little. Then we took short rides in the neighborhoods, (a lot of them.) Then longer ones in the country where little things can also go wrong. Swerving to miss road kill, rubber pieces, rocks,....etc. The more you ride and practice, the more confident you will become. There will always be the idiot who may cut in front of you on the road, or run a red light or any number of hazards that can possibly happen whether in a car or on a bike, but practice, conditioning, and confidence in yourself will give you the feeling of being in control and then the joy of riding will take over. When you stop worrying what can happen and enjoy what your doing, everything will fall into place. Good Luck! Shawna (note from Mama: gosh, this advice sounds so . . . smart! And brings home the point of doing what's really, truly in your own heart, not what others wish for you.) I have been riding about 2 years now, but I also had the horrible jitters. I did take the MSF course which really was wonderful but the one thing that gave me the most confidence was a daily ride through familiar territory (about 25 miles) all by myself. I work from home so on my lunch break I would hop on by bike, go to the post office, bank and take a trip through town. Each time I rode I got used to the terrain, intersections, etc and each time I experimented more with curves, speed, stopping and starting. Then I reversed the course. Without the pressure of another rider watching me and judging my riding (my hubbie was great but that feel was still there) I have reached a great comfort zone. I sold my car and go about everywhere on my bike. The first time I went to have a mammogram on my bike I felt very strange. And wait until you see the looks and remarks when you go to the grocery store on your bike. I have had goofy men say to me 3 to 4 times, "I hope you have saddle bags to carry that stuff". Also, add something just for you to your bike. I added floor boards for one thing because my legs are very very short. I love riding and I am miserable when I am out of town on business and cannot ride. Hang in there. If I can start riding at the age of 47, you definitely can. Feel free to email me at dhodge@ctc.net if you need to share other thoughts or concerns. Debbie (note from Mama: sound advice and thanks for adding your email should Chicken want to "talk" more! An added note for those who didn't catch the statistic in the last newsletter -- about 75,000 women took a course in 2001 -- WOW!) Petra (that's VTwin Mama's REAL name) is right...there are some great books and videos to give you the correct info and tips you need to gain confidence in riding!! Practice, Practice, Practice!!! The more you ride, the more confident you will be!! Think about every time you did something new and was nervous about it...rode your first big bicycle etc....the more you practiced...the more confident you became and after awhile...you didn't think twice about doing it because you were experienced!! It is good to have some fear....you must always (even in a car) watch out for the other drivers. There is nothing wrong with being conscientious!! Don't bite off more than you can chew....work your way up!! You were very brave to ride to Daytona during Bike Week....that took a lot of guts!! I just graduated to a "big" bike ...so I know the feeling that you are experiencing!! You are not alone! Experience is the key....the more you practice....the more you will feel confident in situations that need extra caution!! Good luck....one day you will look back and wonder what the fuss was about!! Your sister in the Wind, Cindy Farrar (note from Mama: that's a good point about learning to ride a bicycle -- most of us did, but we weren't great to start with, but the chance and choice to be "free" kept us at it. It just goes to show you . . .) I'm 2 years into riding my own now and I still can freak myself out if I think too much! I have to sometimes make myself just "not worry" and relaxxxxxxxx. Last weekend we went riding, my second time out this spring since last October when I put the bike up for winter. We came upon a bridge with a grate that I hate. I usually just let the bike glide over it at about 45 miles an hour. However, this time some idiot was stopped on it......standing at the side just looking over the edge!!! I had to come to a full stop on the edge of the grate and wait for him to get his stupid *** back in his van. It was a little shaky having to shift through the grate, but I made it. Little triumphs like that help, but I surely don't like them any better. Take a long breath. Remember to breath. Sometimes I will catch myself holding my breath and that means you are tense all over. Just breeeeaaattthhhh.........it's amazing how much that helps. Clears out the fear and the cobwebs! Tammy (note from Mama: small triumphs are good -- breathing is good too! Gadzooks, I still hate grated bridges and overpasses to this day, and I've been riding for 24 years!) I can totally sympathize with you. I starting riding last year after being a passenger for a year. I started out on a pretty big bike, a Yamaha 1100 Virago, then 6 months later graduated to a new Harley Low Rider. The joke was, that I would never make it out of my neighborhood!!! No one should rush you into a ride you are not confident you can do. I spent a couple months learning to maneuver my new bike and then hit the open road. I was a bundle of nerves going 55 mph. Part of the fear is simply respect of the bike and the speed. Every ride gives me more confidence in my ability to handle situations, but there is still a nervous joy every time I mount my bike. I am sure that feeling will pass in time. My hubby has ridden 35 years and forgets this feeling, but he is very patient with me. I went for my first night ride this past week and that too, is a new experience. I highly recommend the safety course if you can possible find one near you. It is only a weekend, and so well worth it. Keep riding at your own level and master the skills required at your own pace. Happy riding and hang in there! No Name (note from Mama: isn't it funny how someone else's exuberance can "push" us into things that might be a wee bit too much, but their enthusiasm carries us through! Finding your own learning curve speed is a very good point!) I'VE BEEN RIDING FOR THREE YEARS NOW AND I CAN STILL REMEMBER ( SOMETIMES STILL GET) THE JITTERS EVERY TIME I GOT ON MY BIKE. IT WAS SOMETHING THAT I THOUGHT MADE EVEN HARDER BY RIDING A HARLEY "FAT BOY", BUT AFTER RIDING A FRIEND'S SPORTSTER, I REALIZED I HAD THE BEST BIKE FOR ME TO HANDLE. THE FAT BOY SITS LOWER TO THE GROUND AND I HAD A LOT MORE CONTROL, THE SPORTSTER SITS HIGHER AND IT JUST FELT LIKE I COULD TOPPLE OVER AT EACH STOP. I'M SURE TALLER GALS DON'T HAVE THAT PROBLEM BUT I'M SHORT ( 5' 3" ) AND THE LOWER THE BIKE SITS, THE BETTER. I ALSO WENT TO THE HIGH SCHOOL PARKING LOT WITH A FRIEND AND PRACTICED, PRACTICED, PRACTICED !! EVERYONE GETS SCARED, IT'S NORMAL, AND PART OF THAT BEING SCARED IS TO YOUR ADVANTAGE, IT MAKES YOU PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT'S AROUND YOU AND WATCHING FOR SITUATIONS YOU NEED TO REACT TO IN A SPLIT SECOND. I WOULDN'T GIVE UP, THERE WERE DAYS I WAS SO SCARED TO GET IN TRAFFIC I COULD FEEL MYSELF HOLDING MY BREATHE, BUT THOSE DAYS GET FEWER AND FAR BETWEEN AND THE NEXT THING YOU KNOW YOUR ACTUALLY ENJOYING YOUR BIKE AND YOUR SORRY THE DAYS IS OVER AND YOU HAVE TO GO HOME !!! GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE NEW RIDERS AND HANG IN THERE...."IT'S WORTH IT" !! Mary (PhatBoyMomma) (note from Mama: yes, jitters alerts us that we have something to learn, but then anything worth learning always has an element of that!) Thursday, March 27 More for Ki who fell in love with a V-Star 650, but is it too big for a first bike: I started out on the V-Star 650, a WONDERFUL starter bike, all the goodies of a "real" bike and will last years. Graduated to an 1100 which is now for sale, and now ride a Heritage Classic (HD) -- an awesome ride. I have only been riding 3 years...the 650 is an awesome choice for a beginner. Michelle (note from Mama: anyone interested in Michelle's 2000 V-Star 1100 Classic can contact her at starrider01@cox.net for tons more details.) My first bike, after the MSF class, was an old Honda 500. I hated it. Thought that this bike-riding thing was NOT going to be for me. Then I fell in love with the looks of a Yamaha 650 Classic. Didnt know anything about it, just thought it looked cool. My husband and I took it for a test ride. VOILA! I really COULD ride!!! The class DID do some good! Ki, its a marvelous bike. A 650 is like a puppy it just wants to be your friend! Go for it! Barb (note from Mama: and it doesn't poop. Ok, sometimes it farts when it needs a tune-up!) Wednesday, March 26 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Renae, As to the hair smush question, I've always advocated just shaving your head! Ok, I'm just kidding, but we've certainly had some previous discussion on this subject, and a wide range of solutions can be found in my Riding Gear section. Also, check today's (3/26/03) VTwin Mama Newsletter as I learned of another "trick" that is quite interesting (this solution will be permanently posted in my Product Sources page)! Mama Wednesday, March 26 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Beth, So, if any readers have the answer for Beth's oil check question, please let me know as I have never ridden this model and don't have the immediate answer. Mama Tuesday, March 25 Dear VTwin Mama, First off, there are no classes in my area. So I depend fully on my wonderful and supportive hubbie to learn from. I have done pretty well; earned a license the first time and to celebrate I took my first ride (outside of my neighborhood) around Daytona Bike Week. Not too shabby, I got back in one piece! But what I just can't get over is: how do I trust myself WHEN a car pulls out in front of me? And how does one practice? I have a Harley Sportster, and have only put 50 miles on her. Every time I look at her I feel absolute fear instead of joy. Nothing has happened to me to make me feel like I need to just sell it, but I have nightmares about not being able to handle myself when that happens. When I first arrived in Daytona I was thrilled! I was so proud of myself to be able to handle this! But it turned out that the entire time I was there riding around I couldn't enjoy myself because I was so frightened of someone pulling out in front of me. Something just clicked in my brain. So the last few days I just tied up my bike and rode on back of my hubbie's. Needless to say he is a little upset since we did dump quite a bit of $ in our bikes, but as much as I want to ride alone, I just can't stop fearing the worst. I was so embarrassed and I didn't have an explanation of why I felt that way. I look at all the pics on your website of all the great women who ride their own and wonder what is wrong with me. Why can't I have the confidence they have in riding my own? VTwin Mama, besides watching out for traffic and possible idiots that might hurt me, can you please tell me what the joy in actually riding is? Can you please tell me if someone like me with so many doubts in herself should turn in her keys or or is it just a matter of practicing until she feels a little better in herself? I have no female friends to talk to about this and the hubbie would like to know soon so we can trade in our 2 bikes for one big bike that he can ride me around on. I feel like any which way I go I am not going to be happy and I just don't know what to do. But then I look at the pics of me on the beach on my bike in Daytona I feel so proud of myself. I just don't know what to do. Has anyone else felt this way? Please help me with my jitters! Chicken Dear Chicken (with GREAT
potential), Your excitement at riding (well justified) and your hubby's enthusiasm for you riding your own bike (totally cool) have now met head-on with the reality that it DOES take a bit of time to fully appreciate the complexities of riding. They can be overcome. You mentioned that there are no schools in your area -- so what I would do are two things immediately: 1) get Motorman's Ride Like a Pro video (about $30) that shows you in detail how to correctly maneuver a bike and deal with the possibilities of obstacles and common hazards and 2) get a copy of the Proficient Motorcycling book (about $18 at Amazon bookstore, the link is right below) which talks about these things as well. The reason I suggest both is that some people learn better reading about things, while others do better seeing how its done, but both are highly recommended by the readers at this site. With both these sources in hand, you have a good shot at educating yourself on the principles of riding. Make a point to read and view these with your husband. Then, get yourself to an empty lot on Sunday mornings and begin practicing the techniques with your husband watching (that's why he should share your learning experience so you can intelligently discuss how its going). Do this until you have gained some confidence in the basics, then slowly acclimate yourself to traffic, etc. There is NOTHING wrong with you! I sincerely feel you just took on a little too much right off the bat, so gear down a notch and you'll find the joy, not only in mastering the fundamentals, but then being able to enjoy the open road with confidence. There's nothing nicer than riding along on a beautiful day with the sun shinning overhead, the smell of Mother Earth in your nose, the wind at your face, and your knees in the breeze (as we say) -- without a nasty ol' car windshield to hamper the experience. It's a thing of beauty, so I say, give it a shot. Thousands and thousands of women riders simply can't be wrong! Mama Tuesday, March 25 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Mopey, Because this is so crucial and is hampering your ability to ride, I'd contact your closest dealer's service department and ask to speak with someone. Describe the problem in exact detail and ask their opinion, with possible costs associated with what they think needs to be checked and/or replaced. That way you can prepare yourself. At the same time, if there were any recalls, they should (hopefully) have a clue. No, it's not always cheap, but then your life is at stake when you take this bike out, and that's worth more. Mama Monday, March 24 Women's Expo in Brea, CA: Saturday March 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Monday, March 24 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Andy, Monday, March 24 For Wants My Bike who is battling family opposition to her riding: The only one that asked a valid question regarding my wanting to learn to ride was my daughter-in-law. It was the old "what if you get killed on it" question. Here is the answer I gave her: Your husband rides. Your father-in-law rides. Your brother-in-law rides. Your brother rides. They all take the same risks. The important thing is that they are doing it because they love it. The same thing goes for me. If I do actually get killed due to a motorcycle accident, I would like you to do something for me. Please come to my funeral....walk up to my casket....and say "WAY TO GO MOM! AT LEAST YOU WENT OUT HAVING FUN!" That conversation actually did happen, and I meant just what I said! Just waking up in the morning has it's risks. Get the training....get the practice.....do your best! Ride safe. Bootygrandma (note from Mama: what a wonderful, positive message!) I hear this girl loud
and clear. When I lived at home, my father said no motorcycles and got me
a convertible instead - go figure! Anyway, once I was out of the house it
took about 6 months to figure out I could ride if I wanted to. Well, I
didn't know for sure so I rode on the back of friends' bikes a few times
and said, ok this is it! If I want to ride whenever and wherever I want, I
had to learn to ride and buy my own. So I took the MSF class (only way to
go - good recommendation Mama) and learned. THEN I told my friends and
family. LOTS of flack and people thinking I was going to kill myself
riding. Anyway take the class, then you can decide if you even like riding
solo. Then you take the flack and deflect it. And least you know
that you can operate and maneuver a heavy machine, at best you are taking
the fist steps to control your life. Monday, March 24 For Ki who fell in love with a V-Star 650, but is it too big for a first bike: Go Ki! Too Big? Not at all. Who says a beginner needs a small bike? If you took the MRC class, you probably learned on a small bike. There. You've done it. My first (and still current bike) is an 800. My sister bought a V-Star in October after taking the class in August -- it sat in the garage all winter and was a little scared of it when she first took it out, but is fine with it now. Don't you want to know that you will be on a bike that can keep up with the traffic, keep up with your fellow riders and can be seen just a little bit better? You want the confidence that a bike that fits you will give you. Get the bike that feels the best, looks the best and that you can afford. Be proud of your machine - because when you are proud of the bike you're on, your posture will be better, your smile will be wider and the whole experience will be better! Michele (note from Mama: such positive reinforcement -- thank you!) I agree with Mama -- a 650 is a good size and it will have adequate power and you won't have to slip the clutch as much while you learn to ride. Then you can learn to take care of it and when you feel comfortable, move to a bigger bike, if you want. I had a Yamaha 650 Virago and it was great except for pulling hills, it didn't do very well. But now the bikes are better. I'm very small at 5'2" and an inseam of 29" so it was the best size for me at the time. I had it for a few years before selling it and put hundreds of miles on it. Good luck. M&M (note from Mama: there's nothing like firsthand experience to speak the volumes!) I just happen to be the proud owner of a 1999 Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic. I previously owned a Honda Twinstar 200 and then a Suzuki Savage (650). I truly loved my previous bikes, but when I first took my V-Star on the road, I was amazed at how it wonderfully it rode. It was kind of like going from a Ford Pinto to a Lincoln Continental! Remember....a bike will only go as fast as you let it! Being 5' tall, mine had to be lowered so I could ride it. Since you are taller and it appeared to fit you, I think you would really do well with it. Best wishes for your new adventure (in motorcycling that is)! Betty (note from Mama: as always, I appreciate your insights.) Sunday, March 23 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kathy,
Sunday, March 23 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Gail, But I see your point. Well, there's good news and then news waiting to be found! First, I've already pulled out past lowering kit questions and responses and placing it on its own page and created the beginnings of a lowering kit source page. And, in response to your suggestion, I pulled out all the handlebar and controls -- working on the bike -- information into its own section as well! Then, at the top of each section, I placed an area for relevant article links as I find them. Kinda slim pickins at this point, but don't be a feared -- I'll keep searching. If any readers happen upon any useful handlebar or lowering kit articles, please let me know the URLs and I'll add them! Mama Saturday, March 22 Dear VTwin Mama, I took the MSF Rider course last year and aced my exams. I bought a brand new bike and had two fantastic months of riding. Unfortunately, with two good months of the riding season left (I'm up in the north plains where the weather's not conducive to riding year round) I had just finished filling up my bike at the gas station. I pulled away from the pump, looked both ways, and turned to go toward the exit of the gas station parking lot. Well, a teenaged driver whipped around the pumps in a big pick up truck. He was going the wrong way and way too fast for a parking lot. The area between the pumps and the cashier/convenience store building was very small and he was going to hit me head on. I swerved to get out of the way but panicked and ran out of room. I hit the building almost head on. I wrecked the front of my bike and did some damage to the side of the bike that it fell on. Since I went airborne into the brick wall, the bike fell over and I fell on top of it otherwise I probably would have broken my leg. I ended up with a mild concussion, some minor scrapes and a few nasty bruises... but $2000 worth of damage to the bike - which I had to pay for since the accident was technically my fault since the kid never actually hit me (and letting him hit me and kill me really was not a good option). I must have been in shock because somehow I rode the bike 20 miles home and don't really remember doing it. To add insult to injury, some jerk at the scene made a comment about how women shouldn't handle motorcycles. Grrr! Well there was a young MAN behind the wheel of the truck that almost killed me and he didn't even STOP to see if I was okay! I got the bike fixed and by the time the insurance company and the repair shop agreed on the estimate and the parts were ordered, it was really too cold to ride by the time I got it back. The longer I haven't ridden, the hard it seems to be to think about getting back on. So I've been worrying all winter about what I'm going to do in the spring. On the one hand, while I'm driving in my truck all I can think about is how spring is coming and wouldn't this or that road be great on the bike. Then I will be petrified at the thought of getting back on that bike. I get the shakes, I can see the accident over and over, and to this day I will not even gas up my truck at that gas station. Some nights I can't sleep for thinking about it. Some days I just want to sell the bike and forget the whole thing... others I can convince myself that I CAN ride and that accidents can happen to anyone. The weather is starting to warm up and a few brave souls have been out riding the last few days. I don't know what I'm going to do. I thought retaking the rider course would be a good way to get my confidence back (and focus on how FUN it can be) but the courses around here are full until August. One of your readers wrote in that riding my "chair motorcycle" might help and a friend of mine said I needed to visualize riding perfectly and with no problems. All this is very useful and has helped on the nights that I can't sleep, but I don't know if it will help when I actually throw my leg over that iron horse again. Oh well, the bike is fixed and paid for and not going anywhere. I guess I'll just let it sit in the garage until I'm ready. If it gets to be two years that I don't ride, then I can make the decision to sell it. Well, anyway, I didn't mean for this to be so long, I guess it just felt good to get it out there. I'm thankful for the site and for all the comments of the readership. If I ever get brave enough to get back on the bike, I will be sure to let you know. :) Sincerely, BooBoo in Dakota Dear BooBoo, One, you could just sell the bike and put this all behind you. There's no shame in that. Two, you could get in touch with women riders in your area and form your own little mini support group. The reason I mention this is because I truly believe that when we feel alone (and it's a rare occasion when we're truly the ONLY person who has ever gone through something), everything seems worse. I know you know you're not alone, as you read the postings on the Accident Survivors page. Still, reading is one thing -- doing is another. Ask yourself how you would feel if you had a group to share your hopes, dreams, and disappointments with. And what if these women could rally around you for your first ride out for the new season? Sure, you might still feel jittery, but you would have the immediate support available no matter what happened (decide you still can't climb on the bike, just firing it up, a short one mile ride and that's all you can handle first time out, a longer ride on a quiet Sunday morning, etc.). So, that's my opinion. If you haven't joined any groups yet -- now may be the time. Check the links at the bottom of the home page for top women's riding groups and check for chapters near you. Even if you're out in the boonies somewhere, get in touch with the nearest chapter to you. Also, check my Opt-in Rider List to see if a VTwin Mama sister is near you. If you have joined one group or another, now is the time to ask for help. Sometimes we forget that we only need to ask. Mama Friday, March 21 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Grace,
To look at it closer and/or order it, click below and scroll down to the Novelty section, Miscellaneous. Mama Friday, March 21 Dear VTwin Mama, The first day of my course was so shaky and VERY discouraging. I've never been very coordinated to begin with and catching on the physical sports have always been a challenge - but I was determined to keep going. I had borrowed my friends gloves and they were one size too big on me.. so I thought that was the problem and blamed it on them. Needless to say, I was the slowest learner in the group of five. Now, the second day... within the first half-hour - I drove the bike into a ditch. How utterly embarrassing... it took all my effort to not burst into tears. The instructor pulled me aside and told me that he was going to suggest one-on-one lessons with the school for me and then sent me home. Good idea but it didn't help me feel better. I dunno VTwin Mama... am I not meant to ride? I have to passion and I truly want to - but was it not meant to be? The motorcyclist that could -- or couldn't?? Dear Could/Could Not, But I'll make you feel better! Congratulations -- you managed to put a bike in the ditch within two days of riding -- something we ALL have done, just some sooner than later! You think I'm kidding?!?!?!?! I'm not! There isn't a single rider out there who hasn't managed to bump, dump or get a lump somewhere down the road of their riding experience. Now, what you are going to do about it? Cry if you want (I've certainly done that on many occasions when I goofed or near-goofed in front of people) but then wipe the tears away and take your instructor's advice. You've got a burning desire and have already self-proclaimed your tendency towards lack of coordination, so find a one-on-one instructor and go learn! Learn what you can really do, what you can really handle and what you can really achieve. THEN decide if you're meant to ride or not. But don't give up because you experienced an oopsie right off the starting block. That's just not reason enough to give up in my book. Not if you really want to ride. If you want confirmation that you're not crazy for wanting to try some more, than you've got it -- NOW GO DO IT! Mama Thursday, March 20 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear April, Thursday, March 20 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Ki, Oh, did you want to hear why I think that?!?!?! Mainly because I started out on a Kawi 750 myself. It just "fit." I sat on it "well" with my feet flat on the ground and leg and hand controls within easy reach. Also, the price was right! Then I slowly learned how to ride it and maintain it, taking baby steps along the way (like practicing in empty smooth-paved parking lots on Sunday mornings and wearing protective riding gear like a helmet, jacket. long pants, and boots that covered my ankles). I also took a motorcycle safety course a few months later (which is a very good suggestion, as a first step or somewhere along the line). The VStar 650 is a highly recommended motorcycle at this site, so if you're in the mood to get going, then do so -- just be as smart as you can about it! There's tons of information on this site to help you along the way (women's riding organizations, books, magazines, safety courses, links to events/shows/beginner bike sites and the such) which you find by going to the Subject Information table. Good luck -- and keep in touch! Mama Thursday, March 20 For Wants My Bike who is battling family opposition to her riding: Last year I went through the same situation as Want's but only with my husband. He was dead set against me riding, let alone owning a bike. I did take the Motorcycle Foundation Safety class at a local college. I had never even sat on a bike before, but after 25 years of showing and riding horses I knew I would be able to handle it. Passed the classed, love it. It took me 1 year later to buy my own Honda Shadow and to show my husband and the rest of my family that "I" was going to live my life my way. Best thing I have done for myself in a very long time. My job is stressful and riding clears my mind and puts a breeze in my knees. I am happy with myself and finally my family can see the enjoyment I get out of riding. My husband is still having a hard time, but he will get over it. BRBWRE3 (note from Mama: sometimes you just have to do what you have to do! Kudos to you for the moxie to move forward on realizing your own dreams!) My husband bought my bike for my 45th birthday and my parents still had objections (partly because of my brother's method of riding back in the 1970's - no sense and too much beer) I assured my family that I was going to take the Motorcycle Safety Course and practice, practice, practice before I took the bike on a busy street. I am fully aware of, and have a very healthy respect for, what can happen if you're not alert, informed and well trained. Once that was stated, I simply give them updates on my progress. There is not a lot they can say since I am well established as an adult but, I do try to respect their concerns and keep them informed. I hope this may help you figure out how to reassure concerned family members and get them in your camp. Angie in Jacksonville, FL (note from Mama: just knowing that others have come up against this situation and found a way to make it work is helpful! Thanks for sharing.) Wednesday, March
19 National Women on Wheels
Ride-In Women On Wheels Ride-in to be held in Prescott, Arizona July 7-9 2003. For more information you can go to their website at www.womenonwheels.org -- click on Ride-In at top of webpage. VTwin Mama (aka Petra, herself in person!) will be giving a one hour talk about "Riding Down the Information Highway" on Wednesday, July 9th. Hope to see you and talk with you there! ! ! ! Women in the Wind Summer Nationals Women In The Wind Summer Nationals to be held in Golden, Colorado July 25-27 2003. For more information you can contact Cheryl Rieniets at 303-699-0235. Wednesday, March 19 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear D., Also, read this posting which supports the use of the Jardine kit for Star 1100s and has a complete set of pictures and instructions! Then I found Jack Phelp's site -- he's got the 2002 version of your bike and has done the type of modifications you are talking about. The reason I mention it is that he welcomes questions via email -- so why not pick his brain?!?! Mama Tuesday, March 18 For Karen, who is looking for a bike to learn on: I like the Honda VT250R (Spada) because it is light, low & unfaired. It is also very responsive with excellent braking. Mine was very reliable, except that it would often not start if it was sitting in the shed for too long. When visiting the shops, you should go with a girlfriend. No guys - because the sales people will often talk to the guys and won't be showing you bikes that would suit you. Only take the guy along at the very end if you want to check out mechanical bits. I had this problem. The guys would choose a bike that they wanted to own themselves and often it was too high or too heavy for what I needed. Judith Symonds, Lower Hutt, New Zealand (note from Mama: we've heard before on this site that salespeople often turn to the man in a buying situation, so I agree with your advice on women going on the shopping trip to begin with to keep the focus on what the woman wants and so that answers are directed for her alone. Thanks!) Tuesday, March 18 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Wants, For instance, if they think you are nuts, point out the fact that you're ready for a new challenge, one that they might not exactly understand, but should respect because you are an individual, with individual dreams that matter to you. Or, if the objection is that you'll get hurt, note that there are accredited riding courses that have been in operation of a gazillion years and that you plan on investigating this is the first step to learning (go to the Motorcycle Foundation Safety site and learn more -- you'll start out on a little 250cc bike with certified instructors, first in class learning, then on a safe course that is laid out -- and learn about proper riding gear, etc.). Or, perhaps, money is an issue. Again, you can take the course without having to commit yourself to the purchase of a bike right at this minute (and then be in position to evaluate lower cost used bikes for sale in your area if you are ready to continue pursuing your dream). If they think you are just plain dumb overall, then stick out your tongue and tell them that you are smart enough to know your own mind (thank you very much) and that life is a mystery to be lived, not a problem to be solved. We never get anywhere by hiding our heads in the sand -- and wondering later in life "what if" just doesn't cut it. If any readers have specific suggestions on how they handled a similar situation, now is the time to chime in! Mama Monday, March 17 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Mauri, Monday, March 17 For Sharon who is looking for a different clutch lever for smaller hands: I had the same problem when I purchased a 2002 HD Dyna Lowrider. My Harley Dealer suggested that I put an EZ Clutch on my bike with the levers that have a easy grip (knob, kind of like a pistol grip on the lever). The combination worked great, but be careful it's so EZ to use that I tend to do the "no, no" two fingers!!! In addition, when I traded the Harley for an Indian 2002 Spirit, the EZ Clutch and levers transferred to my new bike with no problems. Indian Lady (note from Mama: thanks for letting Sharon know what worked for you!) Friday, March 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Karen, At the same time, go to the MotorcycleEvents.com site and see if there is a motorcycle show near you soon. This would give you the opportunity to look at all current bike models under one roof. If there are none available, then you need to start visiting the main motorcycle dealers in your area. Either way, sit on lots of bikes. That's right -- just sit on them! You're looking to educate yourself on comfort (feet flat on the ground, arms easily reaching controls, feet comfortably reaching foot controls, tilting the bike a little off center to feel the weight, etc.) Keep a notebook handy to jot down your thoughts (the many models/mfgs. all get jumbled up quickly). Many women start on 250cc bikes and then quickly graduate to 600-1200cc and higher within a year, so don't rule out checking into every range right off the bat. Discuss with the dealer or representative on options to lower a bike you might like or change out the handlebar for closer reach. These things are best discussed early on. Some women have reported being treated with less enthusiasm by salespeople at showrooms, so insist on a sales person who will listen to your needs and explore your options. I always recommend that shorter people visit the Short Bikers site -- they've got a page (FAQs link) that lists bikes that shorter riders like for various heights, etc. This would be a good source so you would have an idea before visiting a show or showroom. Now, armed with all that information, start looking at the classifieds in your local newspaper for used bikes (you might want to get a smaller, less powerful bike to start with and learn on, so why pay top dollar for something that might only work through your initial learning curve!). Why am I not specifically recommending one bike over another?!? Too many bikes, so many choices, and you'll be the best judge soon enough! Also, check the links at the bottom of the VTwin Mama home page for links to many women's riding groups and join one or two. The support you'll receive from other women riders will be tremendous and offer you a life-long support group as you work your way into becoming a rider. If you have a passion for reading, then you should check my Books/Magazine page for women's riding magazines and books that are recommended reading for any level rider. Good luck in your hunt and we look forward to hearing from you as you make your way into the world of riding! Mama Friday, March 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kathy, Friday, March 14 Move to Florida!! Just kidding. I live in Florida and am very thankful for our wonderful year round riding weather. I started riding 2 years ago March 17. When we finished the course our instructor took us back in the class room and spent some time just chatting with us about things. One of the most impressive things he said as were about to leave was that we could do one of two things with our certificate. One, we could go home and ride occasionally and a year from now we would still be beginners. Two, we could ride every chance we got, every day if possible and a year from then be an experienced rider. I for the first several months rode every day even if for only a little while. I now put in at least 100 -300 miles each weekend. I ride with a group of riders who have been riding most of their lives and keep up with most any condition they do. Just like playing the piano, practice, practice and more practice. I am 61 years old and live to ride now! Carol (note from Mama: I recommend staying tucked up on the couch when there is unplowed snow on the ground or a high degree of black ice possibilities -- but then maybe I've become a weanie! I'm no longer a huge fan of really cold weather riding any more, but then I did my share of that when I was younger! Still, your point is well-taken -- ride every chance possible -- it makes a difference.) Wednesday, March 12 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear S., I was not able to immediately discover a lowering kit for your bike, so I called my local Honda dealer's Parts Department. They knew of no lowering kits for that bike, but they just got in their new Cobra catalog and it looked like they have something for the Shadow 1100 (not sure if for the whole series). You could email Cobra at customer.service@cobrausa.com and ask (since its not up on their website yet) -- specifically for their "Cruiser Products." My dealer also mentioned Progressive Suspension -- and visiting that site, I think I hit pay dirt! Take a look at this page: http://www.progressivesuspension.com/appview.asp?AppsNumber=53. It indicates they have a lowering kit for your bike (no details given)! Now you just need to use their Dealer Finder feature in the left column of that page and make a phone call! Note for other readers: use Progressive's Application Finder feature and enter your make, model and year and you'll see if there is a lowering kit for your bike as well! One thing I'm finding out is that if the lowering kit is just for the front fork, this may not yield the result you are looking for. If none of this pans out, the other suggestion we've had at this site over time is to bring your seat in to a specialist and have some of the "stuffing" shaved out of it. Or get a new seat altogether -- Corbin is the most mentioned name then. I hope you find your solution in one of these suggestions! Mama Tuesday, March 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Sharon, You have several options. First, I would check the AMP Power Clutch offered by J&P Cycles (big Harley aftermarket company). Use the link below and type in "Power Clutch" in their search engine in the upper left corner -- you'll find the chrome version and black version that fits all HD models from 1982-2003. Don't forget to sign up to receive their FREE 2003 catalog -- a handy reference for future questions and projects! Right now it's for Harley Davidson aftermarket stuff only, but readers with "metric" bikes will be glad to hear that they will be coming out with a catalog of non-HD bike parts in next few months (I'll let you know when).
Also highly recommended is the Easy Boy Lite Clutch from White Brothers -- just click here for their Dealer Locator page (they don't have an online catalog). We've also mentioned Custom Chrome before (they do aftermarket for Harleys) -- here is the link to their dealer list by state (and they also don't have an online catalog). Between these three possibilities, I'm sure you'll find something that meets your requirements! Mama Tuesday, March 11 From Trish who wrote in because her bike wouldn't pass an emissions test: Just wanted to update you. I took your advice and called my local dealer. Turned out it was running to rich (too much gas). A small adjustment needed to a screw that regulates the air/gas mixture was needed. It is a very simple adjustment for the dealer but possibly a big headache for the home wrencher as you need to know where it is adjusted now to know how far to turn the screw to get the right mixture. The dealer has a machine to tell them this. Also, this screw resides in different places on different makes and models and to even find it you would for sure need the manual for your bike. Anyway I conceded and took it in to the dealer for this adjustment when I found out it was a very inexpensive fix($30.00). Such a deal for something that has caused me multiple headaches worrying about the mean old emissions people not letting me ride my bike. It runs so well now it literally felt like someone else's bike. I thought something was wrong with it. I am a brand new rider, I didn't know what it was suppose to feel like. ( What a goober!) But all great things come in time. Thanks for posting for me an |
