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Thursday, March 1 For Pam in upstate New York who wants to test ride motorcycles: McDermott Harley Davidson in Fort Ann, NY offers test
rides. Phone 518-746-9303. Thursday, March 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Karen, Thursday, March 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, (Copy and Paste to an email and send it to: Charlotte Jolley: cjolley@hotmail.co.uk) Motorbike
Questionnaire Are you male or female? What is your age? Do you own a motorbike? If yes, please go to
part A. If no, please go to part
B. PART A What type of motorbike
do you own? How long have you been
riding motorbikes? What do you use your
motorbike for? Please choose one or more choices. Pleasure Do you also own a car? Why did you decide to
buy a motorbike? What words come to mind
when you think of motorbikes? What are the best points
about owning a motorbike? What are the worst
points about owning a motorbike? Do you think motorbikes
have a bad reputation? Do you think there are
enough advertisements for motorbikes and motorbike accessories in the
media? Thank you very much for PART B Have you ever considered
owning a motorbike? Is there a reason or
reasons why you dont own a motorbike? What words come to mind
when you think of motorbikes? Do you think there are
enough advertisements for motorbikes and motorbike accessories in the
media? Do you think motorbikes
have a bad reputation? Thank you very much for Dear
VTwin Mama, I like your site and have learned much from the letters posted there. Keep up the good work! Shawn Annis Dear
Shawn, Monday, March 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, I am now almost afraid to take possession of my new Sabre on March 28th. I hope and pray I will be comfortable on it, almost as much as on the Rebel. I will write and let you know how I like the 1100 cc Shadow Sabre when I put in my first 100 miles. If any other ladies or anyone who is 5' tall has ridden the Sabre, please let me know how you like it. Patricia Doyle Dear
Patricia, I'm hoping readers with the Sabre chime in . . . to see previous letters, go to the bottom of the VTwin Mama Home Page and you'll see a Google search box . . . click on vtwinmama.com and enter Sabre . . . and you'll get to pages with those letters! Wishing you well at the end of the month . . . fear not . . . you're a smart lady who has her eye on the prize! Mama Monday, March 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Interesting to hear the perceived differences between countries. As was said in the UK, we nod, but I notice very often only if the other guy has a bike of similar size as yours, not a kid on a scooter. Sad, really; I get a buzz from waving at mopeds, too - isn't it all about independence, whatever it is that traveling is all about and just the joy of communicating with no agenda? A wave costs nothing except maybe a smashed up bike and head. I wave with my left hand (that's your right and my left) but to the side of the screen (windshield) above the oggler (wing mirror) so it's visible and unambiguous. As regards when to wave, see the bike, check it's as safe as it will ever be to let go (rubbish, sorry, debris in road, bends, potholes, - in your case buffalo, wagon trains and burger clowns, etc) and wave. If the other guy doesn't then maybe s/he'll think about it later and wave next time. The thumb/finger circle sign is surely the diver's 'OK' sign? I returned to riding in October after about 25 years of vans and cars and covered a lot of ground for work. Great site - when I last motorcycled there was no internet. Solitude is one of the attractions of riding for me, but being able to share others' knowledge, views and experiences is very interesting. Great site. If I can convince my wife to visit maybe you can inspire her to get a bike if only to ride in summer (July 9th - 17th). Chris Dear
Chris, Welcome back to riding and the liberating existence of the Internet, which can in many ways be quite tedious except for golden little places like VTM and any other site that you finally find those hard to get bike parts on. I'm glad to hear you'll wave at just about anything, if only inside your head. We draw the line randomly so as to make sure no one knows who is truly cool any more . . . if we ever were (see any styles, including clothing and furniture, from the 1950s). Should your wife decide to visit, please advise her to do so from inside a dark closet when you are at work so we can offer her the code to our secret handshake and encouragement (we tend to get a bit giddy here in the US and don't want to be responsible for it leaking past our borders). Mama Tuesday, March 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Terry, There is little you can really do to change other people's perceptions about riding. They only know what they hear from the media, which at best is rarely in our favor. What you can do is help them see how you'll be pursing your dream because I doubt highly that you're just going to jump on the biggest Hog you can find and roar down the road with your new outlaw biker buddies . . . But what do you have in mind? Perhaps you'll start by signing up for a motorcycle safety course . . . one where safety is reviewed and stressed and getting back on the bike will be done under the watchful eye of an instructor. What's next? How about joining a chapter of a women's riding group . . . it's a great place to share and maybe even find a mentor for your early stages! The purchase of a small used bike? Practice in a big empty parking lot? Mini trips on no/low traffic day/time? If these mini steps sound something like the plan you have in your head . . . then write it all down! It clearly shows that you'll be doing lots of learning and practice way before other drivers have a chance to enter your riding world. Show it to those naysayers in the family. If the negative comments don't stop, it time to be firm. You appreciate their input, you heard them the first time, you'll thank them for finding some encouraging words to say . . . and if necessary, ask them if the reason they are so worried about other drivers is that they harbor a secret fear that their own driving skills stink (say it with a wink and a smile and move on!). Take a deep breath, but by all means, get on with the first step. See how it goes, share your experiences and thoughts, decide if you want to take the next step! We'll be here for you! Mama Tuesday, March 6 For Chris, who offered one UK man's take on waving at other riders: Fun note, thanks for a UK perspective! In the same international spirit, I'd like to comment on your use of the the thumb/index finger sign for 'OK'. Yes, it is the diver's signal for 'OK' since 'Thumb Up' means surface. HOWEVER: if you aren't submerged in water it's best to use 'Thumb Up' since the thumb/index finger sign is a quite obscene gesture in some cultures. Especially if given by a male to another male. Just a tip to keep you whole & riding. Ciao, Jem (note from Mama: very, very interesting . . . will have to review my OK practices!) Tuesday, March 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Our
founding members placed an ad in the Village Voice and held the Dear
Donna, Wednesday, March 7 For Terry who is getting back into riding and has family with negative views: Maybe you could try to recruit one of the family members to take the MSF beginner course with you. Then you'll have at least one that will be able to tell the others, that your not totally out of your mind. It's happened before. A husband tags along and ends up riding too. Jen (note from Mama: a very constructive idea!) Wednesday, March 7 For Donna at Sirens Women's Motorcycle Club in NYC: Great website! I enjoyed visiting it. Wednesday, March 7 Hi
Petra, Dear
Tiina, Wednesday, March 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, We have several events coming up. We will be heading to North Carolina from July 5 - 9 to 'tame' the Tail of the Dragon! If you, your friends or your motorcycle organization would like to join us to tame it, please feel free to do that but you, your friends or your club would have to arrange for your own traveling & lodgings. To make plans to meet before or after the rides, contact NESilentRiders@aim.com There's another event in May 2007. Please check out website and click on Northeastern Silent Riders on the left column. Hope to see you there! Patty Trowbridge, aka PLT Dear
Patty, Wednesday, March 7 Hi
Petra, In your note about the Piaggio MP3 you say that you still have to hold it up at stops . . . as far as I know that isn't exactly correct. My boyfriend works for our government's department for transport and he has ridden one of these. Apparently there is a button which you press when you're stopped which locks the tilt, so it stays upright without you having to put your feet down. This releases automatically as soon as you use the throttle, but you can also push it around locked which must make parking a bit easier. Incidentally he thought the ride was great, felt just like a 2-wheeler, but because the extra wheels and tilting mechanism makes it really heavy, the 250 version is pretty slow. Anyway, just thought I'd add to the info about this new bike, which seems to be generating a lot of interest. Cheers, Michelle Dear
Michelle, Wednesday, March 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, I bought a book on the bike and studied it and then looked into pulling the carbs to clean them. NOT!!! So I thought if the gas set at the float level and caused it to do this then I will disconnect the fuel line going to the T split at the carbs (note I said to the carbs not anywhere before). I then opened the drains on the bowls of each carb to let out all gas and closed them back. Then at the disconnect point of the T going to the carbs I filled them back up with carb cleaner and let it sit overnight (careful carb cleaner will eat paint). The next day I found something to allow draining of the carbs to drain anywhere but on the bike and looked at the drainage for anything other than clear transparency. I refilled it again with carb cleaner and hooked the fuel lines back up and started it letting the cleaner run through the carbs. End result was problem cured. I just got through making my own sync tool and will soon sync the carbs. Mark Dear
Mark, Wednesday, March 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, I haven't ridden her that much for "fun" yet and we are still getting used to each other. She has her little "quirks" and we are still trying to find our comfort zone together. I plan to practice my slow maneuvers before I take her into Los Angeles commuter traffic although I have already been caught in heavy traffic taking her back and forth to the dealer while having a few "accessories" installed. I just got her around the second week of January and of course my good friend Kathy was there with trusty camera in hand to document the event. And
another "biker chic"came along for the ride. We call her
"the Countess" I admit that it was hard for me to give up my '04
Honda Shadow Aero 750, or the "Little Honda that Could" as she
came to be known amongst my friends. She was a GREAT BIKE and I loved her!
But I guess that it was time. I am off to Laughlin this year and can't
wait! I hope to get enough riding in soon so that maybe I can send you a bike
review! But for now, I'm loving my new ride!! Here
are some pictures of the big day when I picked her up! Dear
Gloria, Thursday, March 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, I'm trying to make a good decision when I purchase my first bike. Some riders recommend purchasing a 250cc and basically riding the heck outta it and increasing your skill level before moving up. Others say go as far up as a 600cc so you won't be blown around the road. (I'm 5'10" with a large frame, about 200 lbs , fairly athletic.) I was leaning towards getting a used Kawi Vulcan 500. Figured I would need a little more power than a 250cc, since I live in an area where you have to ride on the highway for a bit in order to get anywhere. My other choice would be a used Suzuki GZ 250, but I worry about the 250 being able to keep up with highway speed, with a larger rider. What do you think ? Thanks for your time. ( I'm a BIG fan of you site !!! Keep up the great work!) Nancy Dear
Nancy, Honestly, being the same height and approximate weight you are, I wouldn't hesitate starting out on that Vulcan. If you go to my Atlanta motorcycle show review, you'll see some Vulcan pics with real women riders on them . . . that should help you visualize things a bit better!). As to the "extra" power as compared to a 250, I truly feel that once you've taken the course, you'll be in good position to judge how you feel on that. Can you wait for the purchase until you've gotten your first taste of riding? A 250cc bike can handle highways but you'll always be running the top gear out, meaning you'll be at the far end of the power spectrum to keep up. That gets a bit tiring for some people. So, my best guess? Go with the Vulcan. Check that your feet are flat on the ground with the bike centered, check your leg reach to foot controls, and check your arm reach to the handlebar controls, especially with the handlebars turned all the way to one side. If the deal on the bike is good, go for it. If your gut is comfortable with the decision, that's usually a pretty good sign! Mama Thursday, March 8 For Miranda, who last March was pondering the Honda Shadow Sabre: Hello: I just purchased a brand new Honda Shadow Sabre 2007. I learned how to ride last summer at the tender age of 60 years. I bought a 250cc Honda Rebel to learn on. The Rebel was and is a great bike. It is really low low maintenance and got me started. Well, I just moved up to the Sabre and was scared to ride it. I will be picking up the bike on March 28th. From the stats I think it will suit me. I am almost 5' tall and have shorter arms. Everything that I have read indicates this bike, just like the Shadow Spirit, will be a good bike for me. I will let you know how I do with it after I take my first ride home from the shop. I have less than a years experience so I am very nervous. The bike is in the 500 pound range and does scare me a bit. I have COPD so naturally the weight is of concern. I hope to ride it and not have to walk it too far. Patricia Doyle (note from Mama: I look forward to hearing from you once you've got a few miles under your belt. I know it's a bit nerve-wracking when you first move up to a bigger motorcycle, but just take it one baby step at a time and you'll be grinning from ear to ear soon!) Friday, March 9 For Patricia who is concerned about moving up to a bigger motorcycle: I too worried about buying a bigger bike after starting out on a Suzuki Blvd 800. The Suzuki was a very nice bike. It was somewhat light (under 500 pounds) and was very responsive. I had the bike for almost a year and decided to get my dream bike . . . a HD Road King. Needless to say, the RK was a little heavier and the movement took a little to get used to. I took it easy and tried not to get myself into tight spots (i.e. going to fast entering a turn). I focused on the basics such as looking thru my turn and really riding. I am not an instructor nor do I have a lot of years under my belt, but let me make a couple of suggestions. 1) Stay with the basics you learned in the riding course. 2 )Find an advanced course and ride your bike through it. 3 )Stay within your comfort level. 4) Have fun! No really, have fun! John Wright in Tucson (note from Mama: there is nothing first-hand advice to let another rider know they are NOT ALONE! Thanks for chiming in.) Friday, March 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have 2 questions: Dear
Newbie Cruiser, Draining a tank is most easily done by simply running the motorcycle until it's out of gas. So, if you ride it till it's almost out, then you can just run it at home until it dies. If that isn't feasible, then you'll need to locate the gas line to the carburetor. It usually has some sort of clamp attaching it. Undo the clamp and have a big bucket handy for the drain. You may want to take an old towel or sheet to protect everything below the hose/carb so gas doesn't accidentally spill on anything. If you're not sure where that hose is, and don't have the service manual for your bike, look at BikeBandit.com. Click on OEM parts, choose your exact bike make/year/model (they have them all) and look at the fuel tank diagram. I'm 99% sure your carb is on the right side of the bike behind the air filter, which has a fancy chrome cover. I believe your bike may have two carbs, but you're still looking for a hose coming from under the tank to the carb. I wish you well on your move! Mama Friday, March 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Mun, I'm not sure if the click sound is normal or not. Consider riding over to the dealer's service department for a heart-to-heart chat. If you're not sure, ask! Otherwise, I'm hoping auto tranny bike owners will chime in with sage advice! Mama Friday, March 9 hey
Petra, I had to try out a leather jacket I bought from a vendor at Daytona Bike Week. I'll take pics and put it on the message board, because I think it's a good jacket for those of us with blubber and big hips . . . it has a stretchy section on either side of the waist, so fits over the hips. Has reflective stripes in the back and front, and has Kevlar in it. Fits great! And
it would look soooooooo cool on me on that Suzuki Boulevard M109 . . . lol.
Don't you know, my favorite dealer has a red one too! Can't wait until
you and Marty can try one, to see what you think, since you've been on
different bikes and can provide a more objective view. Dear
Kat, I look forward to hearing more about that jacket you found and I'll keep you up-to-date when I finally take the M109R for a test spin! Mama Friday, March 9 Hi
Petra, Dear
Dorathy, Monday, March 12 Women's Event, March 24 in Leesburg, FL Dear
VTwin Mama, Monday, March 12 Hi Mama, However, I am not able to find anyone in my area that does this. I was hoping maybe one of your readers could help. I am in the South Bend, Indiana area and I want Yamaha. Most of the people I ride with have a Harley. I am not interested in one because of the cost and then the $ to convert it into a trike (they laugh about that also), but have assured me I can still ride with them even if it is a trike. I am not doing this because I can not ride, I am just in love with the way the trike looks. Cheryl Dear
Cheryl, If you have called every shop in the South Bend area, then I would expand your search to Chicago and Indianapolis. I know you would prefer to keep it more local, but these bigger cities are likely to have more shops and options for you. Yes, you'll have to noodle getting the bike back to South Bend, but many offer delivery services or can arrange transport through a specialty company. Sure, a few more $$, so save up a bit more before proceeding. Let's see if my readers come up with specifics that will be useful to you! Mama Tuesday, March 13 For Cheryl who is looking for a Yamaha trike conversion shop near South Bend: I am about 45 minutes west of Cheryl. There is a joint Yamaha/Harley dealership in North Judson, IN (Probably about 45 min. - 1 hr. south of her) that if she doesn't know about already, she needs to! The dealership is Kersting's. I purchased my first Yamaha 650 from them, went back and moved up to my Yamaha 1100 from them. My husband has his Harley serviced there, and we buy 99% of anything bike related from them. (We were just there Saturday and left them some more money!) She needs to make the trip IN PERSON and let Chad or Jason in sales know what she wants. These guys are totally top notch and I guarantee if they cannot do what she is looking to have done they can get her going in the right direction with some contact information. They are a Five Star outfit all the way. P.S. I travel back and forth to South Bend a lot as all of my family is around there - please pass her my e-mail if she is interested - I would love to hook up with a fellow female rider so close to my neighborhood already! Best of luck to her in her search, Two Wheel Girl, aka Mia (note from Mama: thanks for sharing a dealership that has been a mainstay in your adventure! I'll be sure to pass on your "let's email" message as well!) Tuesday, March 13 Oh
VTM, 1. Rider is 50 y.o. 5'11 180# woman who enjoys the handling of her Piaggio 125 (the Beverly model, which is not known in the states, but is like the 250 except for the engine size) on a Caribbean island which is flat, few intersections, and no twisties. Took MSF course last summer and has driven nothing but her maxi-scooter since, putting about 1,000 miles per month on it, but has not done emergency handling to be considered a seasoned motorcyclist. Being liquid cooled, dual injectors etc., "My Li'l Pony" has plenty of power to pass and cruises nicely at 60+m.p.h. She particularly enjoys a large/tall windshield and large wheels for leaning. Her headlamps are dual, off center (gets drivers' attention) and has running side lamps. Running board preferred over pegs. Scooter frame allows for denim skirt, splash-resistance and legs spared in a fall or side impact. Also extra balancing w/ knees shifting to center/other side. Auto trans. a real plus on commutes. Had a gash in tire but it stayed rigid--is this standard on all motorcycle tires now? Safety tires gotta have!!! 2. Looking for: A bike to drive around KC and open road/camping for a few weeks this summer, then store until next summer at which time she may want shipped overseas. She is most concerned about safe handling on all road conditions, wet, sandy, twisty. She does not anticipate mountainous terrain but some day, who knows. Expect one month travel this July then 11 months storage followed by year-round commuting beginning summer 08 (she does not own a car). Parts and service availability very important for years to come. Crateable for shipping later of course. She drives at night sometimes in the rain so ample and powerful lighting is a must. Pillion sometimes used in city/suburban areas, not x-cntry, but likes attractive/comfort there also. Don't need a ride that will impress drivers but will help command respect for my right to be on the road. 3. Currently considering: Yamaha V-Star Silverado. Suzuki Burgman 650 Exec. Honda Silver Wing. 4.
Concerns: Suzuki is pricey but has some nice features. After market exhaust silencer makes one wonder if it has an annoying dirt bike whine. Also, their Boulevards are used by police here but salt air ruins them, e.g., Suzuki has bad lasting/repair reputation. Interesting clutch/transmission but is such high tech reliable/easy to find repair/parts? Does windshield go high enough to block wind/bugs/chickens from a 6-foot rider? Honda has good reputation for reliability and parts but told the S-Wing handles like a small scooter on hwy. Wheels are smallish. Large screen available? Thanks for all you're doing for us! BTW, good knowing we share the same vintage. I'm a Scorpio and really think this, our 50th year, is fabulous! Scooter Crone of the Caribbean Dear
Scooter Crone of the Caribbean, Tires: I'm going to guess that your model has tubeless tires, which "because of their self-sealing construction, tend not to have catastrophic failures." If that bike does have tubes in the tires, the gash you sustained somehow did not puncture through to the tube. Both tube and tubeless tires are available on the market. I took a look at your Piaggio Beverly 125 and I now understand what you mean about the larger wheels, higher windshield, and styling that you like. Given that you would be riding a new scooter for such little time and dealing with proper storage before shipping it overseas (potentially), I wonder if it wouldn't be wiser to check into a rental of a bigger scooter for your current summer trip needs. Depending on where overseas you would be taking the bike will in part determine the availability of service/parts. While much is to be admired about liquid-cooled bikes, an air-cooled bike will perform just fine and has less parts and weight. The main reason to consider liquid-cooled is if you anticipate a lot of traffic stop/start riding where an air-cooled bike is at a disadvantage for the obvious reason. Salt is corrosive no matter what (just ask a US northern rider who deals with salt on the road during winter months or a US coastal rider!). Clean water rinses are a plus a good breathable cover can make a difference (a cover so the elements aren't eating away while it's stored, breathable so moisture doesn't get trapped under the cover). I know the models you are considering have smaller tires, but I know Rhonda has been running around on her Burgman 650 with no problems. I highly doubt she would have chosen this bike if it had a whinny exhaust. In my pictures from a recent motorcycle show, I have a picture of me (I'm 5'10") on a Burgman and I see that I would be looking over the windshield but that it is high enough to keep the wind off of me from my head down. I also know that Rhonda has been out at higher speeds and don't recall her noting any problems. In those same pictures you'll see me on a Piaggio MP3, with two wheels upfront and one in back. Handles like a two-wheeler, but more traction up front for those wet, sandy, twisty conditions you mentioned. I'm hearing though that it's currently only going to be available in a 250cc and 400cc version. There is some chatter on my site about the Silver Wing . . . easiest to find it by going to the bottom of my Home Page and use the Google search tool specific for VTwin Mama. You'll find the pages with pictures and commentary. I'm now going to toss open the discussion to mega-scooter riders for more input . . . it's time to chime in readers! Mama Thursday, March 15 For Scooter Crone who is looking at something bigger than her 250cc: Thought I'd chime in with some comments about the Burgman 650. Regarding the whiney transmission, I would have to admit that the Burgman does not sound like a regular motorcycle. It has a sort of dieseling sound, not high pitched, but not that nice deep rumble either. The only things I've seen about exhaust modifications are people trying to get a richer sound out of it, or find one that looks cooler/sportier. She was asking about windshields, and I can say there is a good company called Clearview which is making windshields for the Burgmans. They make a very tall touring shield for those who want them. The original shield is at exactly the right height to be annoying. I'm 5'9" but that shield seems to be the wrong height for almost everyone, and apparently most people replace them with taller ones. I cut mine down to make it sporty looking, but might eventually go with a larger one. The executive model has a control to let you raise the windshield at the push of a button. That's pretty cool and might eliminate the need for buying a larger one. Regarding headlights for night riding . . . the Burgman has very good lights. They are good in normal mode, but if you hit the brights they are amazing. I was actually shocked the first time I hit them at how bright they are, and at the distance in front of me they lit up. I wish the lights on my car were that bright! Oh, and about the small tires . . . they don't seem to impact handling except maybe in the wind. However, that is not too bad since it's a big heavy bike. At first I thought the small tires were impacting how hard I was coming down on pot holes and other bumps, but I adjusted the shocks on the back and that is no longer an issue. I hope that gives Scooter Crone some helpful information. Oh, don't know if you mind a recommendation for another website, but there is a site called BurgmanUSA, which is a wealth of information on the Burgman. Rhonda (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your specific observations!) Thursday, March 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lisa, Thursday, March 15 For Terry who at 50 wants to ride again but has some family not supporting her: I had a similar problem . . . except that it was my husband who wanted to get back into riding at the age of 48, and I was the naysayer. Needless to say, it took him several months of going around to bike shops with me and wearing me down . . . we finally found a bike I could fit on and feel comfortable with (Honda Shadow 600), and since he had promised to go to the MSF course with me, we went. We couldn't get in right away, (it took 2 months), so after I'd passed my learner's permit test, we bought my bike (he had to ride it home for me though). He taught me in our neighbor's parking lot for about 3 days before he had to go back to work (cross-country). So it was up to me to go it alone. I practiced with traffic cones and markings on the asphalt and practiced and practiced. I finally took it out early one Saturday morning by myself (cause I wanted to prove to him I COULD do it) and took it to work (4 miles) where I parked it and tipped it over!! No one was around, so I had to lift it back up by myself, and the only thing hurt was my pride and a scratch on the left rear taillight. But since he wasn't there I absolutely had no one to call, so guess what - I got back on that bike, rode it back home, and then went out the next morning again. Then during the week I would go out just around town, after the work rush hour traffic died down, and use the "back" roads (AND the high school parking lot). When he got home is when I finally went out in "daytime" traffic - but we both had Chatterboxes, so he followed me and talked to me, or if I had a question I could talk to him. Great invention, Chatterboxes, if you have someone to ride with who has more experience. Terry, I refused to tell my family about it until I had gone through MSF and had my license. Only my nephew knew, and he only found out because he bought his new bike at the same shop, and they asked him if he was related to me. Was HE ever surprised! Take the MSF course, look and look and look at bikes and find something you really feel comfortable on before you buy it. And you go girl! Claire from Ludlow, MA (note from Mama: how wonderful of you to share how it all came together for you . . . it's sure to give Terry the encouragement she needs to move forward with her plans!) Thursday, March 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Marilyn, Thursday, March 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Anon, Thursday, March 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Shirley, Otherwise, other tactics to get your feet firmly on the ground are to shave the sides of the seat padding (so your thighs aren't thrust out as far before legs can go down), exploring a new lower seat (there is a note that Corbin as one), seeing if shorter shocks are available for the bike, and adding a bit of height to the heel of your riding boot or using a lift insert. I hope these ideas help you noodle out more things to ask about. Mama Thursday, March 15 Hi
Petra, Dear
Kathy, Friday, March 16 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Dani, Friday, March 16 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Deidra, However, you can contact MTC Voyager and get a copy of that install manual (per Charlie, the President . . . .I asked him one time about that!). They also have a troubleshooting table on the site and other information you may find useful. Mama Friday, March 16 For Rhonda who offered her commentary on the Burgman 650: Many many thanks for taking time out to give your most helpful insights, Rhonda! Burgman is now on my short-short list. Can you believe I've got my eyes on a Beemer? I'd hafta see if I feel comfortable on such a beast in a large parking lot and around the block before I'd buy it. The Burgman may be all I need tho. xxox, Scooter Crone (note from Mama: shopping can be a joy when research is done!) Friday, March 16 More for Terry who at 50 wants to ride again but has some family not supporting her: Prove them wrong. Ride safely. Lots of people do, why shouldn't you? Chris (note from Mama: well said!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
SK, Tuesday, March 20 For Deidra who has a Voyager kit on her m/c and is struggling a bit: Most people who have ridden 2 wheel bikes do! They are so use to leaning their machine, that when it comes to man-handling a trike conversion, they have a really hard time. It IS a PUSH, rather than a pull through turns. When I first got mine done, I was pulling the darn thing, now I PUSH and it is so much easier. I am 52 and ride a (Voyager) trike conversion on my BMW K1200LT. There is a reason I went to the trike in 2006. I had bone marrow transplants and lost some of the use of my left leg after a stroke. My girlfriend taught my leg something the doctors couldn't - moving my foot to shift! My marrow transplants failed in 2005, which caused me to have both of my shoulders replaced. I had the first one done on January 16, 2006 and was on my bike by March 1st. I had the second one done December 11, 2006 and was on my bike within 4 weeks. Because of the full shoulder replacements, I had to switch to the PUSH method. It is so much easier than pulling . . . the only thing I find hard is going through roundabouts. My area has a lot of them. The larger roundabouts I usually take in 3rd gear. The smaller, tighter roundabouts, I have to take in 2nd gear and I also have to shift my weight to keep the rear wheels planted. (I'm not a very big woman - I only weigh 127 soaking wet.) I have ridden a smaller trike conversion. My girlfriend who retrained my drop-foot to shift has an older Honda 550. Her bike lost a lot of power when the kit was put on it. Even my girl lost some of her power when the kit was put on it. I didn't like that, but I would much rather be on a bigger cc. Personally, I wouldn't convert anything less than 1100cc with a trike kit. I like the fact that I can get out of the way should the need arise. That is something my girlfriend can not do on her's. Since I converted my girl in February 2006, I have ridden over 7,000 miles on my trike conversion! Starting in April, I will be taking several long trips. April - North Carolina (Deals Gap - no less!) June - Texas. September - Arizona. Looking forward to the twisties in April! Remember to PUSH instead of pull! P.S. Florida requires a motorcycle endorsement for ALL trikes. Huggs (note from Mama: wow, what a life journey you have been as well as a riding adventure . . . thank you for the specific notes on handling a trike conversion!) Tuesday, March 20 From Shirley who is trying to lower a Goldwing 2": Thanks Mama . . . I called all the dealers in the area and there are no lowering kits available from Honda or aftermarket either. So, as you suggested, the bike went to the shop today and they are shaving the seat down 1 1/2 to 2 inches and inserting the gel pad (might as well add a little more comfort while they are inside the seat). The seat will be custom fitted for me. Should only take a few days to a week tops only because they are squeezing the job in. Thanks for your help and I will keep your site in mind should anything else come up. Shirley (note from Mama: I'm so glad I was able to offer suggestions as to how you could proceed with getting your feet more firmly on the ground . . . maybe a picture of you and the bike when the seat is finished?!?!?!) Tuesday, March 20 Charity Ride in the NE: HIV/AIDS fundraising Dear
VTwin Mama, Wednesday, March 21 Friday, May 4th: National Female Ride Day! Dear
Readers, My idea, to support the idea, is for all of us to ride that day and carry a pink flower (either real or fake) and take a picture of us on our bike with the flower. Then, I'll assemble those pictures together on a tribute page and we'll let Motoress know we joined in! Doesn't this sound like fun? It'll be a virtual ride-in of sorts! Mama Wednesday, March 21 For SK who is concerned about gear security on her first solo long-range trip: On security for a lone motorcycle at night in strange places remove everything, lock the wheel (or set your alarm if you have one) and use a cover (mine has a bicycle padlock holding the bottom edges together in place of the bungee hook). I use plain plastic grocery bags to pack things into and put the bags into my soft saddlebags that dont lock. My bags will fit one fully packed large grocery bag to a side or two lightly packed ones. They are quick and easy to remove and carry in at nights as well as being inexpensive (free) and easily replaced. You can buy inner bags that are made for particular saddlebag styles these inner bags are usually zippered, with handles and can be waterproofed but the expense is too much for me. I prefer simple and free. The only thing I have to worry about then is vandalism. Anyone determined to damage someone elses property is going to do it regardless of your precautions, but this way they dont get anything personal that I need to continue on my way. I wouldnt even leave things overnight on the bike if I had locking bags. Anytime I stop to eat or visit, I try to make sure the bike is parked in plain view preferably within my view. Amy (note from Mama: you're right . . . those inner bags are a great idea and I like your inexpensive alternative! I too would never leave anything on the motorcycle that would hamper my ability to continue on my journey.) Wednesday, March 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Diana, I would suggest a slow, controlled ride just in the neighborhood for 15 minutes, so that you can get use to starts, stops and turns. No traffic! No fancy riding, no trying to impress you. Then, on the next venture, choose a no/low traffic day/time and pre-plan a simple route outside of the neighborhood. Perhaps one you know well to a breakfast destination not more than 10 miles away. Then continue to add little fear-factor challenges . . . a bit more mileage, a bit more traffic, a bit faster roads, etc. At all times remember that lying about your comfort level serves neither you or your hubby well . . . that doesn't mean you have to be negative . . . but be clear about what concerned you and talk about how to improve that. Some women have reported that after some initial rides, they found that taking a very basic riding course helps them understand how a motorcycle operates. In some areas the MSF offers not only their Basic RiderCourse, but an even better one for true newbies, but these are called different things . . . Pure Novice, Beginners, etc. It's something you may wish to look into! We wish you well on your new adventure . . . be true to YOURSELF and YOU will ok! Mama Wednesday, March 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
SK, Wednesday, March 21 Dear
Readers, Thursday, March 22 For SK who is loosing earrings with the use of a helmet: Agree with you, Mama, hoops are the only way to go. I have several that lock into place: the straight or curved part that goes through my earlobe is hinged to the earring & catches in a V-type latch, somewhat like a gate latch. And do take the extra second after you put on your helmet to lay your earrings flat against your ears, facing forward. When you remove your helmet, remember to grasp the helmet in approximately the same manner as when you put it one, slightly pulling out the sides by your ears as you pull the helmet back while bringing your head forward. If this seems ridiculously detailed, I've seen so many bikers - males & females - put on their helmets w/great care then just rip them off when they stop. Can't be any better for the helmet than it is for your head & hair. I have an Arai Profile full-face that has several adjustments for warmth, cooling and anti-fogging, so I've never considered a scarf under my helmet and can't comment on that. Ciao, Jem (note from Mama: yes, with the scarf I don't worry about helmet removal as I know the earrings are secured in place, so it's good that you mentioned it. Good additional notes!) Thursday, March 22 More for SK who is concerned about gear security on her first solo long-range trip: We use waterproof rucksacks (typically for camping) from Academy as liners for the saddlebags and the Tbags. Economic and waterproof. Even on a day ride, most saddlebags can get damp inside and the leather ones tend to turn things black. Jojo (note from Mama: thanks for sharing another lining idea for soft saddlebags, although to some degree the idea is valid for the hard cases for those who don't want to undo them and carry them in for the night. Black leather that gets damp can leak dye but I don't know of a solution for that.) Friday, March 23 For Diana who has never ridden and will be a passenger for the first time: I am a female rider who learned to ride my own bike before I was ever on the back on someone elses. In fact, I was pretty vocal about not wanting to ever ride on the back. But when it came time to learn to ride on the freeway, I found my nerves were getting the better of me. So I enlisted the help of a male rider friend to take me for a ride on the back of his bike so I could get the feel of the speed. We started out in the driveway, worked out a series of hand signals (tap right shoulder if he was going to fast, left if I needed him to stop, left in rapid succession if I needed off immediately), as well as a route for the first trip. Being out of control was very hard for me at first but I hung on and waited it out (but let me tell you, I nearly lost it right at the beginning!). He took a couple side streets and then we stopped to check my status (still nervous but getting better). Along the
way he demonstrated a few maneuvers (weaving gently, u-turn, down shifting)
so I could get the feel and know how to react properly and safely as a
passenger. After that we bumped it up to the local expressways and then
finally the freeway. I will admit I felt a little panicky when he
accelerated onto the freeway (on his Suzuki SVS) but overall the ride was a
great experience and allowed me to advance my own riding by learning from
him. Once we were on the freeway he even shifted his torso out of the way so
I could safely feel the extent of the wind resistance at 70 mph . . . a huge
help in overcoming my concerns! I have to
admit Ive changed my tune about riding on the back. As a newer rider
there are local rides I wouldnt attempt solo but being on the back with a
more experienced rider is like a motorcycle classroom. I can learn the
terrain and pick up tips for handling the curves without having to worry
about getting run down by the more experienced riders. The left and right
should taps are a thing of the past, replaced by my
Im-okay-and-having-fun squeeze of his waist and his you-are-doing-just
fine pat on the leg. While it is no substitute for miles on my own bike
(either in thrill or gaining skill), I admit I enjoy hopping on the back
every now and then. I had to get used to it, but Im glad I did. Work out a plan, talk through your concerns ahead of time and try to relax and enjoy yourself! And if you dont like it, dont force it. Ride your own ride, even if that means not riding at all. SuzyQ (note from Mama: sage advice with specific tips that are sure to help Diana . . . and I love the reinforced message that even a new solo rider has much to gain by riding pillion!) Friday, March 23 Hey Mama, How does the V-Star ride compared to the Honda? The V-Star I am considering has quite a number of extras, ie. engine guard, cruise control, hard mount saddlebags, etc. I know there are always risks when you buy used, but I have enjoyed my Honda and I don't want to go backwards when it comes to riding performance. I know very little about Yamaha's . . . I have only owned Hondas and Suzuki's. . . any comments? Thanks for your help -- ride safe! Marilyn Dear
Marilyn, I do have a VStar 1100 Silverado detailed review from a women rider posted in my Motorcycle Reviews section that may be of interest to you. Any other opinions on the motorcycle can be found by going to the bottom of the VTwin Mama Home Page . . . there you will find a Google search tool . . . just choose to search the site and type in VStar 1100. Mama Friday, March 23 |
