|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wednesday, November 1 For Susan who is comparing wheel construction choices: I've had both. If it makes any difference, the cast wheels are SO much easier to clean. It's a booger trying to get your hands in between ALL those spokes -- one at a time -- front and back! Pat Jones in Houston, TX (note from Mama: I'd forgotten about that but now remember well!) Wednesday, November 1 Well Mama, And yesterday, I rode to work for the first time! Not a major trip but at least I am on the roads! I am taking the baby steps and feeling very good about it! By this time next summer I will be riding all over the place! I love my little Rebel! It has given me a chance to really get some confidence ... I still have trouble with going real slow but I am practicing and have learned to feel more comfortable in my turns! Every time I get on the bike, I look up to heaven and know Piggy is watching me... I bought his Police Bike from the estate and am having a friend of mine customize it for me. He has already picked out 2 little chrome pigs for the fenders and I am going to have a few pigs with wings painted on the tank! When it's done, I will send you pictures! Thanks for all of your support and all of the ladies who have written to me!! Your site is excellent and I will keep coming back for more help and encouragement !! Love ya! T. Dear T., I am glad to hear that the Rebel is allowing you to gain confidence and riding time in small steps . . . you are definitely on your way to becoming a skilled rider in your own right. And it's awesome that you're customizing one of Piggy's motorcycles with an eye toward riding it yourself when you are ready. I know he is smiling down on you, just as I was smiling
when I read your letter. We're all cheering you on and glad to hear that
the VTM site is providing a place of support you can count on! What joy it
will be to see you and the bike!
Mama Wednesday, November 1 Dear VTwin Mama, I explored this issue without the benefit of any training or the great links on this site. It was on about my third ever session on a bike; my Suzuki GS500F; 180kg (400 pounds). I was stationary, in neutral with the wheel slightly turned. The wheel began to back away under me and I didn't know that applying the brake would stop it - worse, I avoided braking in case it bumped the bike down faster. I'm 5'7" and 140lb and managed to hold it as it went down so it had a very soft landing. Husband was a 3 minute walk around the corner but dignity was in getting the sucker up by myself before anyone came along! I stood facing forward with the bike (it fell right and was pretty much flat on the ground). I didn't know about gears so it was still in neutral. I picked up both handlebars and for my first lifting effort went into a low crouch, legs making a triangle shape, i.e. spread not together. It took 2 goes to get the leverage angle right, but by tucking my left calf up against the fairing/tank after the first heave, I got enough to brace the left leg. Then I could push off my right leg, which was braced further out from the bike, and lever the bike up. I knew to hold my lower back very flat and braced. I held the brake as the bike leveled out, and slowed down the lift to avoid the classic flip over the other side. As I was facing front, on the non-stand side, it wasn't hard to put my left leg over and sit on it as it got vertical. It did take some bloody minded determination as well as my strength, but it got the bike up from completely flat and I feel that I could do it again. Especially now I know to put it in gear first! I'm not so sure about a 500lb+ bike though - maybe swivel once you've cleared the ground enough so you can put your backside on the seat and continue as per the demonstrations. THEN I walked back to my husband as the engine wouldn't start (flooded) and frightened the daylights out of him . . . Alexa from Toronto Dear Alexa, I could envision though how you used your body from the side to then brace and leverage the bike once you were able to achieve a small angle up. I could also "hear" your determination to handle this on your own . . . I'm guessing there was a bit of an adrenalin rush to give you a shot of temporary strength that made a difference! The bottom line is that learning to pick up our bikes is one of the greatest confidence boosters! Each rider would do well to consider this necessary skill before needing it. That means taking a look at your bike, imagining it on it's side, and realizing what it would take. Then hop onto my Pick Up the Bike page for those links mentioned to get some beginning clues. While practice is useful, even just reading the techniques and looking at one's bike would be a step in the right direction. Thanks Alexa for sharing how you accomplished a
difficult task!
Mama Wednesday, November 1 Dear VTwin Mama, I have been back out but riding has changed. I lost much of my confidence and must ride ride ride to get it back and strengthen my skills. Thank you for your site . . . I cannot express how much it has helped me to read about other women and the "curve thang!" plus all their other experiences. GO MOTORCYCLE MAMAS & GRAMMAS! I laughed out loud (at work!) when I read about the woman who missed a curve trying to keep up with her husband and ended up on someone's lawn! You keep going sister! All the GREAT advice about Slow Look Press Roll (I remember that mantra from class) and counter-balancing is so helpful and confidence bolstering. It is only 32 degrees here in Michigan this morning but the sun is out and I think the bike and I will go out, too. I will keep reading the wonderful, funny, revealing and educating postings at your site. Thank you VTwin Mama and all your followers!!! Beth Dear Beth, I know that first oopsie can feel like a real deal breaker, but as you and many others have read, it doesn't have to mean an end to the adventure. It just means that more learning is needed and I'm glad that you're gathering confidence from the VTM site so that you become the skilled rider you wish to be. We are all rooting for you! And how wonderful that you sent in a picture of you and your bike! Have a great ride today . . . each mile logged makes a
difference!
Mama Thursday, November 2 Dear VTwin Mama, So before my class he thought I should get familiar more with the controls and try to move the bike so we went to a parking lot with his Heritage Softail Deluxe. Let me tell you it was a very humbling experience. I did move the bike, but got into a habit of rolling the throttle while trying to brake and not wanting to lift up my left foot as I started moving - two bad habits and I haven't even had the class yet! So, now I am freaked. I think that this motorcycle was just too big to start off for me who has never driven a bike before and the fact that it is his and I was afraid I'd dump it just added to my nerves. Though my beau said I did a great job with the clutch and friction zone - I have this fear now of failure and not being able to ride. I hope I overcome it during my class. I'm hoping that just the intimidation of such a large bike and being afraid of damaging his bike did something to my psyche. I figure if I can control a 1200 pound horse with a brain, I should not be afraid of a motorcycle . . . any insight Mama?? Tempe Dear Tempe, Same with a motorcycle. Now, go to my Learn To Ride a Motorcycle page and there you will see a video clip under the MSF listing. That's a look-see at the kinds of things you'll be during in your course, and one of the first things (besides classroom stuff) is duck walking the bike. It's all done in steps. This will help you visualize your course and hopefully allow you to do positive visualization. If you do negative visualization (thinking everything is going to go wrong), you'll shoot yourself in the foot and that's just not necessary. That's why it's called learning! And you've been doing a lot of great learning already and all the not-so-hot lesson on your boyfriend's bike just showed you was that you're not ready for a big bike . . . yet! Kudos to the b/f for sticking to positive thoughts! Hmmmm . . . horse vs. motorcycle . . . you may not realize it, but a motorcycle in fact does have a brain. The brain is you! That's right . . . all motorcycles handle in a certain way and you'll learn how to give it the commands it needs to do the thing you want it to do. So, put things back into perspective! And if you find
during anytime in the course that something isn't going perfectly, tell
the instructor you need a moment to relax and breath, then get back on and
try again. Do not give up and you'll surprise yourself with how much
you've learned!
Mama Thursday, November 2 Hey Mama, I started on a Honda Rebel 250 and outgrew that in about 2 weeks, selling it to my sister for her starter bike. I looked at several bikes and decided on the '06 Honda Shadow Aero VT750. I am only 5'2" and my feet are firmly planted on the ground, I can turn the handlebars to full lockout in both directions, and the bike is well balanced, quick and fun to ride. I have added highway bars and a windshield (so I don't get blown off like a piece of paper when driving over 70!). Now I just have to find a nice big parking lot and work on my tight turns and curves! The class I took was great but we drove little 250cc bikes which were half the weight and size. All my guy friends insist there is a Harley in my future and, maybe so, but this is quite sufficient and economical fun for now! Ride safe and have a blast girls! Beth Dear Beth, Thursday, November 2 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Jojo, Friday, November 3 For Tempe who is waiting for her course but gave it a shot on a bigger motorcycle: I did almost exactly the same thing when my husband was giving me a few instructions before I took the class. Except I did it on my own bike (a Sportster with a 1200 cc engine) and I dropped it too -- twice!. And I had no trouble in the class. The bikes are much smaller and much less intimidating. And, as Mama says, they start out slow in the class and work from there. You will have an adjustment later if you end up riding a bigger bike but you can go through all the basics on the bigger bike, just like in the class. The tendency to roll on the throttle when using the front brake will go away with practice. While I was in the MSF class, I concentrated on trying not to do that so that it would not become a habit for me. Also, it helped that I learned in the class that you're actually supposed to grip the throttle in a "wrist down" position, which reduces the tendency to roll back on the throttle when you reach for the front brake. Have fun at class. You will do great! Jody from Kansas (note from Mama: thanks for bolstering Tempe's spirit and sharing some pointers that will help her go to that class with confidence!) Friday, November 3 More for Susan who is comparing wheel construction choices: The shop is wrong: cast wheels are NOT safer than spoked wheels. On a road bike cast mags or spokes makes no difference. On a real off roader, such as a motocrosser or a desert racer or an enduro bike (think XR 650 Honda or DR 400 Suzuki), the only way to go is spoked wheels. The spokes make the wheel so much stronger for taking impacts, you can break a couple of spokes and not have the wheel collapse. A cast wheel would not take that kind of abuse. But for road work with dirt roads included, cast is fine. Cheers, Kevin (note from Mama: most of the readers here stick to paved roads, but it's good to hear about other types of riding for comparison viewpoints!) Friday, November 3 Dear VTwin Mama, Any thoughts you can give me on the two bikes (I have run and read every statistic side by side) and also on just moving forward so early in the game. I always planned to use the Rebel as a trainer, possibly go to a middle bike and then move up. The 650's and that area are not going to be something I would keep very long and I already know that. So I want to plan for the mid range as my next and possible, final step. Thank you and I am so glad I found your site!! The pictures and stories are great. Laura in Colorado Dear Laura, Given that your weather is already turning towards winter, I'll also point out that while it's sitting there in your cold garage (I'm assuming its not heated!), you would still need to carry insurance on it, and some maintenance tasks would already be starting. The battery would need to be pulled and properly stored or a battery trickle-charger added so that the battery doesn't die. If the bike has a centerstand, you can more easily get the wheels off the floor, but if not, then the bike has to be moved so that it's not sitting in one wheel spot during this time. Honestly, I would wait till spring. Growing into a bigger bike is part of the process and just the next natural step in your adventure! You were probably apprehensive before taking the course, but got that accomplished (yahoo to you!), started practicing on the Rebel (most likely some nervousness out on your own for the first time), but the transition seems to be going well (double yahoo to you!), so realize that when you choose your next bike, it's normal to wonder how it's going to go. Practice, of course, is the key! Unfortunately, there is no perfect formula to predict what your next best step is. That C50, at 819cc, is a nice bike and as a mid-range bike, still has plenty of power and comfort for longer range rides. Many riders will choose that range and spend some time on it. They may end up chomping at the bit to move up in power range fairly early (think 6-12 months), but then the economics of the new sell/buy cycle comes into play. However, if one thinks about it, the "chomping" is a good sign that comfort, confidence, and skills were built on that mid-range bike that then translates to wanting to move up! Many will argue that an 1100cc bike (it's actually 1063cc) isn't really that much different than a 819cc bike, and in part, they are right! Both have 5 gears and shaft drives (nummy!). The C50 is fuel-injected (vs. the carburetor on the Silverado), which can be nice for riders who will be truly riding in greatly varying altitudes. That Rebel is only 306 lbs, where the C50 weighs in at 542 lbs and the Silverado at 639 lbs. But these raw numbers don't tell the whole story. A bike may be heavier, but can feel better balanced to a rider. If you visit both bikes again, get it off the side stand (or have someone get it off the centerstand if applicable) and roll it back and forth and lean a bit side to side. You'll get a feel where the mass of the bike is relative to your body. Turn the handlebar all the way to both sides and see if your reach to controls is still good. And don't ignore the "falling in love" part . . . some bikes just have a look that makes our heart's sing! And if you know you'll be wanting to accessorize, a bit of research on those kinds of items is important as not all new models immediately have lots of choices. Bottom line . . . the more time you have riding your Rebel, the better "feel" you'll have in determining your next step. I'd log as many miles as possible now, wait till spring, log even more miles as soon as the weather allows, and then make the choice. Here's an interesting thought . . . some dealers allow test rides, while some don't. Some have rental programs. Ask what the policy is in each case. It could be that they insist on xx amount of miles or xx amount of total riding time before allowing either. That would give you something to shoot for. Then you would be in position to test or rent and make a more informed choice! Also, check for motorcycle shows in your area . . . many
are held during the winter months and can offer an opportunity to see many
bikes in one setting!
Mama Friday, November 3 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Tim, But even knowing the correct terminology didn't get me to a source for your bike (more Harley options than anything). Then I noticed the terminology of marker lights. These come in so many styles, can be a universal mounting, and are often chosen as a replacement for reflectors on a bike. So, you may wish to go to the Motorcycle Products UK site and take a look at the markers. Or visit your nearest dealer now knowing the names of what you're looking for! You may also find information by visiting specific Honda
Shadow forums where you can seek assistance. I have a number of them
listed on my Help By
Mfg/Model page.
Mama Saturday, November 4 For Laura who is getting started: It's not a "mid-life crisis" . . . it's a "mid-life awakening"! Plain and simple. It's better to go on this part of our lives knowing we aren't having a crisis. We are having too much fun learning the joys of riding . . . how can that be a crisis! It's an awakening to what's been in us and now we are taking part . . . finally. Happy Trails, Kathy H. (note from Mama: an excellent way to look at it!) I have owned both bikes you are looking at and would personally recommend the Suzuki. It can be made much lower than the VStar and for us short riders that is important. Make sure you get whatever you really love the looks of best and that fits you best all around though. Be sure you can go lock to lock, etc. Check out Intruder Alert.com . . . they have a great ladies forum where you can ask many riders their opinion of various models of Suzukis. Dorathy Biddinger (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your thoughts!) Saturday, November 4 For April who got a Sporty but needs to modify it to make it work for her: I am 5'2", 125lbs, and I, too, had a Sportster 883. My Sportster was a Hugger . . . which is lower than the standard Sportster, but it was still too high for me. We bought a White Brothers' lowering kit, which the Harley shop did not recommend, but it lowered the bike a little over an inch and caused no handling problems with the bike. Then I bought a Corbin seat. I can't remember what it was called, but it wasn't "puffy" at all and lowered me another inch or so . . . and it was extremely comfortable! I have to say, though, that even though I did all this stuff I still found the Sportster to be too top heavy for me. Don't know if I just have a balance problem or what, but the bike was uncomfortable to me. After dropping it once and scaring myself to death, I got rid of it. I went back to a GZ250 for a while and then found a Buell Lightning that fit me pretty good. I wasn't sure about the "crotch rocket" look. I really like a cruizer better . . . but I've found that I really like the Buell now and it's so much lighter! Good Luck with your Sportster, April. Just wanted you to know that you can lower that bike a good bit!! Kathy (note from Mama: thanks for sharing some lowering notes! And glad to hear that in taking a different "step," you're more easily working towards your overall goal!) Saturday, November 4 Hi Petra, I also topped off my tank the other day, which may seem
trivial to most, but to me was an interesting experience. Initially, I
just wanted to shove the pump in there and let it shut off manually like
it does with a car, but wasn't sure if it would work the same on a bike. I
ended up holding it and watching the entire time . . . haha. Slowest
re-fueling I've ever done. Will it automatically shut off if you just put
it in and lock the handle? Dear Richard, On gassing up . . . in theory, yes, the pump would shut off on its own, but the problem is that automatic click off can cause a nozzle jump or spurt back of gas. Given the small tanks on bikes, I would put up with the slower refueling so that the paint job remains unblemished! There is a new product on the market called the McCuff which promises a no spill fill but the promised sample has not arrived, so I've not had a chance to test it yet. This may be of interest to you. Motor on Richard . . . your progress is an inspiration!
Mama Saturday, November 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Tim, Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Dave, Or not. Your uncle's motorcycle has a complicated history, so I'll do my best to give you some background. First, anything with the AMF designation has to do with that period in history when HD was about to go under . . . it was the American Machine & Foundry company that bailed them out in 1969 and that lasted until 1981 when Harley management bought the company back. Smaller, lightweight bikes from the mid-60s to late 70s did carry the HD name, but were in fact not made by HD. Smaller cc bikes from Britain and Japan were flooding the American market in the late 50s and into the 60s. Harley, looking to counter the challenge despite that this was not their main market, worked with the Italian company Aermacchi, and brought their bikes over under the Harley name. As far as I can tell, that SX is actually classified as an off-road motorcycle, in the cross/motocross category. At least that was the intent. Indications are that they simply did not have the reliability of the Japanese bikes. Harley began bringing over bikes and in 1968 came out the Rapido 125 and then in 1970 came out with the Baja 100. The Rapido morphed to the TX125 and in 1974 they came in with a 175cc version and in 1975 the 250 version. The designations of SX, SS, and SXT seemed to have little meaning. 11,000 of the 250 version were sold in 1975 but the momentum never really carried forward from there. HD's dealers "saw the two-strokers merely as a sideline." So HD severed the tie with Aermacchi and sold the plant in Varese. All of this information was gathered from a number of books on Harley and general motorcycle history that I have on my shelves. The majority was gathered from Harley-Davidson: The Making Of A Cult by Peter Henshaw (1995). So, now you have a snapshot glimpse into the history of
the SX 250. If HD can't directly help or point you to someone who knows
about these bikes, you may find assistance at this Aermacchi
discussion forum. There is no shortage of people looking for parts to
restore these. You may end up needing to go oversees for parts and/or
seeing what eBay will cough up. I typed in "restoring a Harley SX 250"
in Google and found a number of listings of bikes for sale and a few more
message boards.
Mama Tuesday, November 7 Dear Mama, It's true, I thought of how many times I fell when I was little after the training wheels came off my bicycle and how many times I fell off of a horse while learning (not many, but still). Rome wasn't built in a day! Thanks so much again - I respect your every word coming from experience and years of practice. One day I may get that Heritage Softail, you never know . . . but for right now, as long as I can ride it doesn't matter to me. I did it! Tempe Dear Tempe, Tuesday, November 7 More for April who got a Sporty but needs to modify it to make it work for her: Take it slow and easy. After 1,800 miles and lots of practice with cones and the Ride Like a Pro DVD, I purchased a Sportster 1200 Low to replace my trusty Suzuki GZ250. I didnt need any modifications, except to pull the handlebars back slightly. Unfortunately, I jumped on the Sportster and expected to be able to handle it like I did the Suzuki Off I went on a long trip and I had an accident. Luckily for me, the only damage was done to my brand new bike. (Not counting my bruised ego and shattered self-confidence.) I am now repeating the steps I went through to master the Suzuki. I signed up for a MSF course taught on Buells and passed at the top of my class. (I took an MSF class earlier in the summer to get my license.) Im still practicing and taking it slow and easy. Im gaining confidence and skill but not pushing my limits. The Suzuki sits in the garage as my security blanket but hasnt moved since I got the Sportster repaired. SO, long story short, practice, practice, practice. You can do it! Mary (note from Mama: thanks for sharing that the transition to/start on a bigger bike requires respect for the process.) Tuesday, November 7 Dear VTwin Mama, 1. Look to buy the motorcycle I would want to take on a trip like that now, or would such a bike be too big to start on? (My boyfriend is really in to KTMs, which is what he would want for himself). I would like to also be able to ride this bike in the city, and on semi-long rides into the mountains (i.e. a few hours). 2. What kind of a bike would you suggest for me, for such a trip? I've had a hard time finding bikes small enough to fit me so that my feet can touch the ground. 3. If I should start off with a smaller bike, what would you propose as appropriate and affordable? Thank you so much for your help! I'm so excited! Laura Dear Laura, Let me start by telling you that in 1979 I decided to get a motorcycle and ride. So, I saw a bike for sale, and having no idea what I was doing, bought it and then learned to ride it on my own. It was a Kawasaki 750. It turns out I was a fairly "natural" rider, meaning that while I took my time to practice in empty lots before going on the road in traffic, etc., I encountered no real oopsies that shook my confidence in those early days. It was also helpful that at 5'10" and 150 lbs, I had the height and weight (and strength) that took a number of challenges out of the equation. I was probably only saved by the fact that as a military person who wished to ride on base, I had to take the Navy's two-day riding course on that bike. As you can imagine, I can truly appreciate the "least expensive route to riding" desire. However, there is no question in my mind that you should save for, and take, a certified riding class. It will give you two of the most important clues about your new adventure in riding. First, it will show you how quickly you are able to learn the basics and what level of learning and practice will be needed after the course. Second, having been on a smaller bike, you'll be able to judge bikes for sale with a bit more knowledge under your belt. Think of it as an important investment in YOU! If you proceed without the benefit of a riding course, then so be it. There are lots of books and DVDs that can help guide you, the MSF has a nice library of free booklets, and if your boyfriend is capable, he can assist. At 5'5" I have no doubt you are finding that many bikes sit high and you can't get your feet flat on the ground. But most motorcycles can be modified. To read what the top solutions are, hop onto my Motorcycles for Short Riders page. There you will also be able to see lists of bikes, the rider's height, and the modifications they made for fitment. With this knowledge, when you find a bike that meets your budget requirements, you would be able to take into account $$ needed to make the bike fit. In my mind, any bike under 550cc is not going to be that happy of a ride for that month-long trip. I've had a number of letters from riders who chose and stuck with the 250cc motorcycles, not only for learning, but longer day rides. Can a 250cc bike be ridden on a longer-range trip? Absolutely. It all boils down to comfort and how many miles are planned each day. If this trip is about meandering around and taking in the local culture, you should be fine, but if the trip is about jamming lots of miles every day, you might find a smaller cc bike a trial. So, your boyfriend is in love with the KTMs, but where is your heart? I'm pointing this out as the sport-style bikes usually sit higher and often have less lowering options. It's not hopeless, but a reality you'll have to take into account. Also, it's important to separate out your feelings on style from your boyfriends . . . now is the time to think for yourself. As you can see, I'm simply not getting around to naming makes/models for your consideration. It turns out my crystal ball is in the shop for repairs! The bottom line is that you can get a mid-range bike (500-900cc) and simply learn. It will meet your needs for that trip and the local city/mountain stuff you want to do. Any lumps you take while learning have to be viewed as just that . . . lessons learned. If you are a strong-minded/willed person, this will not be a problem, but if you don't come from a sports background (where you learned about the realities of what it takes to master a skill), then do yourself a favor and take a course! Will this bike be your dream bike? Highly unlikely, but you've got to start somewhere! Your budget also needs to take into account insurance (very important), maintenance of the bike (it's a mechanical beastie and yes, there are things that need routine care) and riding gear. Don't chintz on the riding gear. A good helmet is a must (unless you're crazy), sturdy boots that protect your ankles (as a bare minimum) are needed, a riding jacket is tremendously useful, and a pair of riding gloves is a must. Even slow speed oopsies can result in skinned knees, elbows, and palms. Now, take all your enthusiasm and add a dash of planning. Look into courses, read about how bikes can be modified for your height, be honest about your risk tolerance, and jot down all the things your budget needs to include. Then proceed with the plan that makes the MOST SENSE FOR YOU. Mama Tuesday, November 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Dan, Wednesday, November 8 For Laura who is considering an oversees trip and first bike purchase: Do your research well before heading out into another country to ride. Find a bike that not only fits you, but is going to be easily fixed (as well as maintained) and has the mileage range on a tank of gas to take into consideration that gas may be difficult to come by! For instance, a HD Sportster or Suzuki Intruder can only go about 120 miles on a tank of gas. That is one thing that the sport bikes have over cruisers; their tanks are usually a little bigger particularly the BMWs. Contrary to what It sounds like great fun I cant wait for
retirement so I can do more traveling on the bike! I get 3 weeks in
July and am planning a trip around the western half of the Wednesday, November 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Julie, Thursday, November 9 Dear VTwin Mama, One of the things I know for sure . . . since I began my efforts to build a suitable and technically marvelous vehicle for the disabled (primarily in a wheelchair) [Chariot Wheelchair Motortrike Company] is that so many people have need for this. The people's appeals fuels and energizes my dream. Despite my failures and setbacks I feel like the man that went down every "dead end" road before finding the highway. In order to achieve my goal, I decided to go the non-profit route. I have spent the last year negotiating with Shanghai contacts to have the Chariots built in China, on the very high end of the "elastic quality spectrum." The high cost of labor in the U.S. makes it near impossible to build it as well locally (I'm an American Patriot who loves his country by the way). Although I was given extremely high marks for a well written, well researched prospectus, with proof of concept and a very viable overall business plan backed by all the NHTSA, DOT, EPA certifications, a feasibility study and manufacturing assessment, my wheelchair motorbike project lacks the governmental tax break benefits given to other hi-tech and bio-tech investments. They have no idea of the impact it will have on so many people's lives! At a minimum, I plan to give 25 Chariots away annually to aid wheelchair bound individuals to raise their quality of life and or get back on the work force. It is like the movie line in Field Of Dreams: "If you build it they will come." I remember hearing CNN's founder Ted Turner reply to a question regarding the plausibility of 24 hour news. He said in his southern twang, "I didn't see how it could fail." I guess the reason that it is so clear to me is that I have been a quadriplegic for 24 years and my view is very different than all the able bodied people making the decisions. The foundation that will be making the decision on my application for a grant to build Chariots exists to aid the poor, aged and the handicapped, so therefore my chance of succeeding in obtaining the funds to fulfill my dream is better than ever. Your prayers and the prayers of your readers will be very effective and appreciated. God Bless you and all your loved ones. Aloha, Dan Ward Dear Dan, I think everyone reading your letter will agree that if you truly believe in a goal, it can be achieved, but it requires a lot of hard work. This is a message we have been sharing at the VTwin Mama site for quite some time. When challenges are faced they can be overcome . . . but it's not just all about the goal . . . it also shows us a window into the very core of our being . . . who we are and what we're really made of. We all wish you the very best in your continuing journey and our prayers are with you as you motor down your mission's pathway. Mama Friday, November 10 Dear VTwin Mama, The problem is that I am 4' 10'' tall, about 115 lbs. Not exactly an easy size to work with when looking for bikes. I don't have any driving experience of my own but I am trying to get information before I start so I'm not stuck trying to figure something out. I've picked up a couple bikes, including a Honda Shadow Aero VT 750 which I like. Any suggestions or tips would be greatly appreciated. A Little Woman Who Just Wants To Ride Dear Little Woman, Taking a riding course is a good way to get started in learning the basic handling characteristics of all motorcycles. In my article, Learning To Ride A Motorcycle, one point I make about courses is that it can be a very wise move to visit the course and check out the bikes. For your height, that's a super important point. Before you plunk down money, you want to make sure that they have a bike that will do the trick! On that same page you'll find courses offered nationally and there are even some video clips that give you an idea of what the riding portion of the course involves. Depending on where you live, courses may be drawing to a close due to weather but you should still call to get signed up for spring, as they fill fast! The southern states typically run year round. Another fun thing to do during winter months is to check to see if a motorcycle show is coming to your area. This is a chance to see lots of bikes in one setting and sit on them! Try MotorcycleEvents.com for listings. So, hopefully all of this information will give you new things to explore as you begin your adventure in riding. We're jazzed for you! Mama For Dan who updated us on his vision for offering motorcycles for wheelchair users: I echo Mamas sentiments. I
am in awe just reading about your vision, passion and determination. The
vision itself is inspiring, but the encouragement I receive from reading about
this journey of yours comes from contemplating how determined you have been
and remain. I will definitely keep you in prayer. Tuesday, November 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear LadyRider947, I can appreciate that seeking out other women riders nearer your age can heighten the joy, as sharing that way does bring in another component of being able to converse with someone who understands your "age culture." So, while I find that I learn and share wonderfully with all age groups, there's nothing wrong with wanting to seek something more specific! There are a number of pathways at your disposal. First, hop onto my Women's Sites page and there you'll find links to women's riding organizations. Look for a chapter near you and say hi. You may also wish to visit my Let's Ride page and say hi to those women riders in your area who are sharing their email addresses. An extension to that page can be found on my new VTwin Mama Message Board, which has a thread in the General Chat area, but there is also a specific Let's Ride section organized by state and country which you may wish to post to. There's a lot of excitement building up on the upcoming Biker Ally Rally . . . why not ask Rain if she'll be posting something about riders headed to that and how to hook up. If not, you may want to start a thread on my Message Board, maybe title it Biker Ally Rally, and let's get a dialog started there! You could let Rain know you've done that to aid in her rally. She has so much already on her planning plate and this would be one way to help! Mama Tuesday, November 14 Dear VTwin Mama, I did go ahead and purchase the bike; I fell in love with it and she and I just fit. Here is a picture of me posing on it! I got my permit, practiced, practiced, practiced, and loved every minute of it! I took the MSF course at the end of September and passed! I am now a happily licensed motorcyclist. Thank you for the support back then, and your website. Sincerely, Karma Dear Karma, Tuesday, November 14 Hi Mama, The city opened a new toll road, and it has cut 13 lights off of my commute!!! Awesome! Riding to work was becoming a chore, since it took 1.5 hours to ride 20 miles (just no good way to get from my house to the office). Now it takes half the time. I know it makes the ride shorter, but it more quality time now! I also want to give you a wrenching report. That's right, Three of my closest friends and I decided to install saddlebag brackets on my friend's Sporty. We were very insecure about taking the shocks off the bike, but with 4 girls, the right tools (Harleys use those Torx wrenches) and a small hydraulic lift, we got them on, and the bike back together!! Whoo Hoo!! Peace on the road, Jojo Dear Jojo, I just loved the wrenching report and could see all four of you huddled around, working through the steps, sharing thoughts, and getting it done. How very smart! Victories of any kind help us see that we CAN do it, whatever "it" entails! Mama Tuesday, November 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Dependability and maintenance needed are another important aspect of what kind of bike you will want to ride. Nothing is worse than having a ride planned with friends and a bike that is not ready to roll on the date and time of the ride! This could also be considered cost of ownership whether you do your own wrenching or pay a shop to do it. Availability of parts and service on the road are also important considerations in this category. Only ride a bike with good product support. Street cred is important to some riders but comfort, dependability, and product support are the most important issues to this old man. I have been riding for close to fifty years and have ridden on most of the bikes manufactured since the mid 1950s. This includes American , British, German, Italian, Austrian, and Japanese. Since the early 1980s my choice has been Honda. My last bike was a Gold Wing but I now ride a VTX 1800 twin because it fits me best and goes where I think it should with no effort at all. It's comfortable, dependable, powerful, requires minimal maintenance, and it eats the miles up on my annual 5,000 mile trip. My son owns a Harley shop and calls me a traitor but he does love to ride my VTX when he gets a chance! Many new riders are entering the sport of motorcycle riding trying to be cool and have street cred without considering the hazards of riding, abilities necessary to be safe in traffic, and ability to control the machine they are riding. The end result usually is they crash and end up hating the sport or worse end up impaired for life. My advice is start with a comfortable easy to control machine and as your ability and confidence grow move up in size and power always picking a machine that feels like an extension of your body! LD Dear LD, I had to chuckle on your son's view (which I know is done in jest) . . . I'm coming to realize that when a rider is comfortable with their choice, no amount of naysaying can really impact the joy. Lately I've had lots of comments on my BMW R1200C . . . it appears it's now being applauded for it's uniqueness, and while that might be the first comment, the second is always a question about the handling. You can bet, since I'm happy with my choice, that I'm able to enter a good conversation about the pluses and minuses with a view towards sharing and learning. That's good stuff! Mama Tuesday, November 14 Hi Petra, The screwy thing is, I am not afraid of the bike, but am afraid to drive my car. I think it may be because I was told by 2 different staties that being on my bike is what saved me. Ever heard of this? I do know that people think I am crazy to ride again, but it was not my fault I wrecked, it was the idiot that crossed the center line. Of course, the first ride I took had to be a hundred miler. I do not see me staying off a bike again as long as I did once. Susan Dear Susan, It's an interesting point about driving your car now . . . there is no doubt that the observations made by those state cops had an influence on your viewpoint. Of course it's impossible to look back and say that if you had been in a car that the outcome would have been better/worse . . . although that may in fact have been their conclusion, it also might have been statements designed to minimize the mental trauma of being on a bike when that idiot crossed the line and caused the accident. So, statements made to let you know that you did your very best given that you were on a motorcycle and they were genuinely impressed with how you handled the situation overall. Just a thought. Joy to you as you continue riding! Mama Tuesday, November 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Anon, Wednesday, November 15 Dear VTwin Mama, All of the sudden, late last week, my jeans are starting to get scorched from the pipes, which are covered with tape that is supposed to act as somewhat of a heat shield (although it was added by the previous owner for looks). The tape is starting to melt in one area too. Yesterday, I rode less than ten miles and my jeans are not just scorched but a little chunk of them burned up. Is this a sign that I should add more tape to the spot that is melting away or could there be a problem that is causing the pipes to heat up more than normal? Jody from Kansas Dear Jody, "I'm assuming the previous owner wrapped the pipes with "heat tape" to make them look like they came off a top fuel drag bike. If that's the case pull it off ASAP. It's function is to make the pipes run hotter, not to act as a heat shield. If the bike exhibits no other signs of over heating your problem is solved. If it does, investigate the usual things- lean mixtures, particularly in the pilot or needle circuit, the wrong heat range spark plugs, a tight valve, etc. My guess is that pulling the tape off the pipes will solve the problem." Mark then went on to explain heat tape: "Heat tape is used in some racing applications to raise the exhaust gas temperature. The hotter exhaust is the quicker it flows out of the pipe and so on. On a street bike it's just an affection and doesn't do much except make the bike run hot. It also absorbs water and rusts the pipes. It's effectiveness as a tuning device is debatable but it looks trick. BTW, I've got a 25 ft roll of the stuff I was going to use on one of my race bikes. I never even opened the package." So, there we have it. In looking at one description of an exhaust wrap product, it says "Exhaust wrap helps to retain heat in your exhaust system, which increases horsepower while reducing radiant heat damage. By wrapping the exhaust system it maintains hotter exhaust gases, decreases the density, and allows the exhaust gas to exit the system faster! Greater exhaust scavenging is produced and lowers intake temperatures: that equals more horsepower." So here we note they are talking more about performance. The question remains however whether this tape deteriorates over time as in other product descriptions for exhaust insulating wraps, they included the note that it should protect you from dangerous pipe burns (along with the performance boost). Bottom line . . . you are scorching clothing and the tape is melting in a section . . . I'd follow the KISS principle . . . and get it off and see how the bike performs then. Mama Wednesday, November 15 Hi Petra ( VTwin Mama), Model: 2007 Aprilia NA 850 MANA Dear Freebird, "The rider has two possible options: Of course, here in the States, it will probably be a year or two before it crosses the "pond." All good things to those who wait?! Mama Thursday, November 16 Hi VTwin Mama, Dear Deb, Thursday, November 16 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Stacie-Ann, First, motorcycles can be lowered in a number of ways, but given your project, I'm pretty sure you are referencing the use of lowering links (vs. shorter shocks, etc.). These links come in a variety of styles depending on the make/model. For the SV 650 I found this product link at the 1Tail.com site, which indicates the item they offer is made of steel. There's a contact number on the site in Colorado, so you may wish to contact them for more details on the exact specifications of that steel. On the Adjustment Tech site (click on Adjusters) I found that they offer the same type style lowering link and "these adjusters are machined from 6061-T6 aluminum on our CNC Mill." So, then I looked for information on that 6061-T6 aluminum and found this data sheet, which might be useful to you. You may wish to search some more . . . I typed in "lowering kit for a Suzuki SV 650" in order to find this beginning information. Mama Thursday, November 16 Mama, One of the most hated effects of quitting smoking for me
is the withdrawal from nicotine. It leaves a dense fog in my head, and an
inability to concentrate for days. It's like being normal one day, then
uncontrolled ADHD the next. Oh God, I'm gonna mess up this traffic is terrible I
can't believe I just My palms actually hurt from my grip by the time I got home. I took the truck on Wednesday. ;-) Jojo Dear Jojo, Actually, I'm thinking that what you shared runs through a lot of newer riders' minds, nicotine withdrawal or not, so thanks for writing it down! They are not alone! Mama Thursday, November 16 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Debby, |
| © 2006 VTwin Mama | Disclaimer |
