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Thursday, November 1 10% Off Air Suspension Kit Dear Petra, I had problems reaching the ground, feeling safe enough to control my bike and enjoy the ride. I got the boots with the thick heel. I tried to lower my bike, which left it bottoming out. I even had my seat cut down, and I have one of the lowest cruisers on the market today, the Vulcan 900.. These all seemed to be temporary fixes that never really addressed the problems completely. I love to ride, but I need to feel safe, secure and in control to enjoy my bike while I ride. It is also important for me to have a comfortable ride.. Tim, my boyfriend, has been building the SBC Air Bag Air Suspension for Yamaha 1100s for over 7 years. After seeing what it did, I asked him to build one for my model bike. He agreed to and after he did, I could not believe the difference it has made for me. It addressed all the issues I was having. The difference in the ride was unbelievable. Not only where my feet able to touch the ground and I had more control, but the ride was so much more comfortable, my butt didnt hurt after long rides anymore I was able to adjust the bike height while riding with just flicking the switch and when I was at a stop, parking etc, I could lower it all the way down for easier maneuvering.. It made such a significant difference for me that since that day, Tim and I have dedicated ourselves to building the best Air Suspension on the market today. One that lets you adjust the height of your bike but also give you a more comfortable ride. Our system set up is like high-end production cars use, similar to Mercedes and Cadillac. We use and airbag in conjunction with a shock which is the reason for the comfortable ride. We also back our suspensions with a Lifetime Warranty. Stop by www.streetboutiquecustoms.com and check out the difference in height it can give you on our video demo's. I am personally offering any members of VTwin Mama a 10% discount on any of our SBC Air Suspensions. To receive your 10% discount and/or if you have any questions email me directly at tmele@cox.net and I will be sure to take care of all your needs. Please keep it safe, Traci, Street Boutique Customs Dear
Traci, I see the company is currently offering kits for the Kawi VN900, Yami RoadStar and VStars 1100 and 650, as well as the 1999 and earlier HD Softails. I encourage readers to take a look! I viewed the RoadStar video clip and at first I'm like, what?! The movement of the system was so gradual, but the last seconds of the clip, when the air is released, you could see the bike drop down an appreciable amount. Wow! I've now added air suspension modification to my tips on the Motorcycles for Short Riders list! Mama Thursday, November 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Sethwoman, Well, eventually it wouldn't start at all because with the choke out, you finally flooded the system, meaning that the spark plugs got wet and just couldn't fire the mixture any more. Normally, if you let the bike sit over night, it will dry itself out. But why would a bike start correctly and then stall a minute later? The answer could be with what else you were doing. For example, if you were putting the bike into first gear to take off, but the kickstand was down, the kickstand safety switch would cause the bike to shut down. Then you popped it back into neutral, started it again just fine, but then tried to go to first with the kickstand still down. With the kickstand down, but into first gear, all the revving in the world isn't going to do much good. That safety switch is doing its job. If that's not it, there are any number of things that could be happening, but email back and tell me if that solved it! Mama Friday, November 2 The VTwin Mama Buffs Are Here! Dear Readers,
Friday, November 2 For Sandra who heard that Virago seats weren't that comfortable: Sandra, I owned a 1100 Virago and only used the stock seat for the 3 summers and 15k miles that I owned the bike. I re-upholstered the seat in leather which added comfort and less heat than the stock vinyl cover. Leather adds a lot more comfort than most people think! Although the stock seat on my '96 had the pillow top button look I was able to add just a little more padding to make it a bit wider on the sides, giving me the "I'm sitting on a Barcalounger" feel and look. It was great! I completed an 8 hour day on the leather seat and tush was none the worse for the wear. Often times riders suffer needlessly without knowing that seats can be shaved, built up, lowered and made wider without having to buy a whole new seat, which as you know can be spendy. It's important that anyone purchasing a new bike take the time to just sit on it and concentrate on your tush! Think about your tailbone and especially the area under your cheeks, both of which tend to take the brunt of an uncomfortable ride. If you think you might need an adjustment in the seat, it would certainly be worth your while if the owner of a bike that you're looking at would allow you to take the seat off and run it over to an upholsterer who is known for doing m/c seats. Good luck, Ride Safe, Nanci at Ace High Leathers (note from Mama: so I learned something here ... vinyl and leather are not the same comfort level necessarily!) Friday, November 2 For Dolores who commented on the wisdom of wearing a helmet: I must agree with Dolores, I wear the full face on freeway rides, and the half, actually 3/4's with a shield around town, at lower speeds. I can lift the shield if I want the wind in my face, and lower it if it starts to sprinkle, or if there are tons of "no-see-ums." I just wish there was some way to vent them better than they do now. When I take either one off, I am soaked with sweat, and major helmet head. But, I guess that's better than being soaked with my own blood! Jane (note from Mama: I've been wearing a half helmet for a long time and carry a full face on long distance rides. Just picked up a 3/4 helmet with faceshield that I can raise and lower. On that sweating issue, yes, vents aren't all created equal. Take a look at my new customized VTwin Mama Buff ... you might find that this product, which can be worn in a number of ways, has the property of wicking, absorbing, and evaporating moisture.) Friday, November 2 Hi VTwin Mama, I'm a Newbie in Ontario, Canada. I have been wanting to learn to ride for a long time and recently started seeing a guy that has been riding for years. Well, I signed up for a Motorcycle Safety course and passed with my beginner's license in June 2007. The course trained with 125cc dirt bikes. I bought myself a used 1985 750cc Suzuki Intruder which fits me perfectly (5'3", 130 lbs) after my boyfriend changed the handlebars (they were too short). Before the course, I would ride the bike up and down the side street in 1st & 2nd gear. I found it very difficult to turn around at the end of the street though. Well, my first ride out on my Intruder after the course started great (August long weekend). I loved riding around and playing with the gears. The fastest I was comfortable with was 70 kms/hour [that's about 45mph for us US folks] and it felt great. I stalled once at a street light but was able to get going again quickly. We rode for about an hour with me following my boyfriend and stopped for a rest. Love the open road, long stretches and winding turns. When we got back on the bikes to go home, I made a left hand turn on gravel (in 1st gear) and ended up skidding out. I stopped the bike but because of the angle and the weight of the bike, it went down hard. Broke the foot peg right off (and scraped up my left leg/knee ... I love my leather riding jacket and gloves! Wish I had put on my chaps though...). My boyfriend had to leave me on the road and go home for the truck to pick me & my bike up (I wasn't willing to leave it by itself on the road). Now, my bike's fixed after a long search for foot pegs. But the weather is cold and Jack Frost has come so I won't be riding again until next summer. Unfortunately, I'm scared of the weight of my bike now. When it dropped, I could not stop it and it landed very heavy on my leg. I'm considering buying a 125cc dirt bike for next summer to regain my confidence though as I really did love the ride, just didn't care for the fallin'. :o) Any suggestions regarding bike weight for me? I'd really love to get back on my Intruder. I've heard that riders should not ride a bike that they cannot lift off the ground if it's dropped. What do you think about that? I'm not very strong myself, so I find it limiting in bike options. Any feedback would be appreciated. Canadian Newbie Rider Dear
Canadian Newbie Rider, I'd find a big paved empty parking lot nearby next spring when weather allows. Confidence can be rebuilt on a bigger bike if one removes the obstacles to learning (i.e. roads, gravel, traffic, etc.) Have your boyfriend ride it over if necessary. Meanwhile, you've got the winter to do some research and learning that will help you realize that slow maneuvers are practiced skills. One great way to do this is to get the Ride Like a Pro DVD. It's one of the best investments you can make! It will help you set up an entire practice series that slowly gets you in control of things at slow speeds. Over the winter, you can view the DVD until you're good and sick of it, but trust me, Jerry really does pound in the basics with great enthusiasm! Over the winter you can do something else. Learn to pick up the bike ... by yourself! Take a look at my Ride Techniques: Pick Up Bike page. Get an old piece of carpet, turn off the gas petcock, put the bike in first gear, lay it down gently (with help) and then work on learning to pick it up. You wouldn't believe what a great confidence builder this is ... and you don't have to be an exceptionally strong person. It does help if the bike has an engine guard on it, because that allows the bike to remain at an angle (instead of flat to the ground) when it takes a nap. So, research that and see if you can add one to your bike, if you don't' have one! Personally, I would do all of this before deciding to buy and get some more time on a smaller bike. Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong about heading back to a smaller bike ... many women report that 6 months more on a smaller bike really made a huge difference to them. But honestly, once you see women riding big honking motorcycles in the Ride Like a Pro DVD, you may see that not all is lost! P.S. Stay away from gravel whenever possible ... there isn't a street rider that likes it! Mama Hi VTwin Mama, Any suggestions would be appreciated but I think that the riding season is just about over here in Ontario, we have had a few really good frosts and I have found that the wind chill while riding is really wicked. Thank you in advance. Cheryl, a newbie but no longer terrified Dear
Cheryl, Of course with practice comes better balance control at the slow speeds, so less wobbling. Still, the throttle may not be adjustable or something that even practice will smooth out so you have tighter control at the lowest of speeds. People with auto tranny bikes ... chime in if you have better suggestions than mine! Mama Monday, November 5 Hi VTwin Mama, Dear
Terry, I recently added an exterior pad to my seat, not only for comfort, but I wanted an added inch of seat height to accommodate my longer legs. I was at a rally and found the Soft Bottom Butt Savers vendor booth and had a great talk with Wayne Jackson about his FlexGel products ... interconnected, individual gel cells that promote consistent blood flow by allowing body weight pressure to be evenly distributed. It's made a great difference to me! This is a product that also can be purchased for interior seat modification. I was really sold on the technology because it's a product that will never harden, mold to a shape and then not spring back, or leak! He had a demo seat there and when I got up, he showed me he had a steel lock under the cushion, and like everyone else, I never felt it. Very Princess and the Pea kinda thing! I've put 830 miles on the bike now ... once I forgot to pull the pad out of my saddlebag and boy oh boy, did I realize the difference ... at the next stop, I got it out and smiled there after! The "tailbone" sites all seem to mention gel, but I really think that are some more advanced systems that are better ... take at look at what Allen from Mean City Cycles is putting into the custom jobs that are brought to him! So, do some research and compare costs and decide if this is a job you can handle yourself ... otherwise, a seat mod company or local upholsterer may be able to work with you! Mama Monday, November 5 Hi Petra, I have learned now why my friends told me that the balance and centre of gravity matter so much more than weight or cc's. So now I am looking for a good used, maybe a few years older version of the same bike! I plan to keep riding in warm gear until there is snow and ice on the ground to get all the practice I can this year whether its on my little 250 Virago or a new bike! Will fill you in when it happens! Sandra Dear
Sandra, Remember that Suzuki renamed all their bikes under the Boulevard series for the 2005 line-up, so previous year models have different names ... the S50 was the Intruder 800, a much loved motorcycle and I always liked the looks of it! Enjoy what you've got left of this year and remember, keeping that Virago 250 for spring is a great way to jump back into the season with some practice before you take a larger bike out for practice! Mama Tuesday, November 6 Dear Readers The newest addition ... the Annual WITW Alberta Rally in August ... Mama Wednesday, November 7 New Book from a Woman Rider! Dear
VTwin Mama, Wednesday, November 7 For Cheryl who is working on slow turns on an auto tranny motorcycle: I have a Honda CN250 Scoot ( a very sweet ride) that I take turns about riding with my Savage 650. I can go pretty slow on the scoot and I think it is just due to riding it a lot, feeling very comfortable on it. Maybe do a lot of practicing with your throttle speeds. It is probably easier to balance at a slow speed if you don't have to think about it too much. Anonymous (note from Mama: more practice = more control, or at least an understanding of the specific handling characteristics of a make/model. Not all throttles have the same responsiveness level, but all can be practiced until every nuance is learned, including limitations.) I have a Ridley Automatic and I found that I had to use the back brake ever so lightly. Try it, it and see if it works for you. Joan (note from Mama: an excellent point that I missed! Slight application of the rear brake can temper the throttle control. Reminder: using the front brake tends to pull a bike down in a turn, so it's the definitely the rear brake you want to use.) Wednesday, November 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, PASSED my skills test and now have my endorsement! Passed on the Rebel. Practiced right hand U turns for three days. Missed a couple of cones but knew I would. Passed with 93%. If you didn't passed your skills test don't give up. I'm 63 in ten days and never rode before. I really like it. Love my new ride. Thanks for your site! Billie Gray Dear
Billie, This is an inspirational message to any rider who is wondering what and how long it takes to reach the goal of riding. It takes as long as it needs to take, with review of choices and steps along the way, keeping the vision clear in your head, until the desired outcome is achieved. And here is Billie, a positive testament that if you really want something, it can be done! Kudos to you Billie and I'm so glad you shared your victory with us! Mama Wednesday, November 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have always dreamed of riding a sports bike (I want to get the Ninja 250). My instructor however tells me that I should stay away form the Ninja and start with a Nighthawk or Rebel because of my throttle/clutch apprehension. I don't like the look of those bikes though. What should I do? Anonymous Dear
Anon, I can appreciate that the negative messages you have gotten doesn't help, but then it sounds like you're ready to move past that and explore your own pathway. After all, it's YOUR adventure, YOUR opinion that counts, and YOUR resolve to learn that matters. So, I would get the Ninja if that's what you're interested in. The beginning practice drills are the most important and can be a real confidence booster if you take your time and pay attention to the small steps you'll need to take. The first drill is the duck walk. Now, I taught a gal who was struggling with your very same issues on a sport-style bike, and what I learned is that these more aggressive bikes have very little room for clutch lever management ... they will stall immediately if they don't have gas. So, this is what we figured out: with the bike in first gear, give it just the smallest amount of steady gas. Steady is the key word here. With steady gas, slowly let that clutch out until you have the engage point of the clutch and duck walk. The moment you feel out of control, or can't keep up with the duck walk, pull the clutch in. Remember, with the clutch lever pulled in, it doesn't matter how much gas you give it ... it's not going anywhere! Holding steady gas isn't always the easiest thing for a new rider, but that's the point of practice ... to learn! How can you tell about when you've got it right? If the bike shudders or stalls, you aren't holding steady gas or not giving it quite enough. It's a fine balance, but it's doable. The gal I mentioned practiced on and off for several hours, but in the end, she got it! The next day, she had to start over again, but within 1/4 hour, had the control again, and was duck walking very nicely. If anything, the mental aspect of remembering the small nuances were the most tiring, so do your practice sessions in 15 minute intervals, take a break, and try again. With this understanding of how much gas she needed in order to move smoothly forward, she was then able to fully let the clutch out with gas and pick up her feet to the pegs. Again, the reminder is that if something feels too fast, pull that clutch in to remove the power and then apply the brakes. Then try it again. And for goodness sake, do this is an place without ditches or other obstacles and lots of room to move. When you come to the end of a stretch, put the bike in neutral, walk it around to face the other way, and continue! Would a bike like the Rebel be a bit easier to learn on? Perhaps, but the drill is the same ... you have to duck walk until you're good and sick of it because it's the best drill to learn the specific characteristics of that bike's clutch and throttle coordination. There simply are no shortcuts. My final thought is that you have control over your feelings. If you go into the practice session thinking every negative thing, nothing good comes from it. Take a positive view and tell yourself that learning takes time and practice, and you will be happy with each small victory. Small accomplishments slowly bring you to your goal, which is to ride safely and with confidence. So, off you go to make a bike choice decision and plan out your practice sessions. Smile the whole time you're learning because soon you'll be joining the 4 million women motorcycle riders on the road, who not only know what you've accomplished, but are ready to share their beginning stories as well. I'll start. When I got on my first bike, I think I stalled it a gazillion times before I got the hang of things ... Mama Thursday, November 8 Hi Petra, Dear
Tempe, Thursday, November 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Becca, I'd start by taking a look at the battery connections ... are they tight and is there any corrosion? This may be the only problem. Negative lead (black) off first, then the positive (red). If there is dry powdery stuff, that can be cleaned off the terminals and connection. How do I know this? Because earlier this year I bought a used truck and had the same thing happen ... looking closely I realized that one terminal was really yucky and a bit of cleaning up and I was back up and running! If that's not it, then I'm going to guess it's a standard acid battery and if you haven't looked at it since you bought the bike, therein may lie the problem. The cells of the battery have to have a minimum level of water in each cell. Sometimes you have to pull the battery to see the levels properly. If even one cell goes dry, the whole thing can be kaput. How do I know this? Because many years ago I was out for a ride on the 4th of July and it happened to me and I was hours away from home. Thank goodness a rider and his wife took pity on me and let me stay over until the shops opened the next day. Why ... sometimes you can add water to that dead cell and recharge it, but usually it won't "take." Start with these two things and then email back if it's not solved the problem. Mama Thursday, November 8 Dear VTwin Mama, I'm hoping that riding will give me the freedom and confidence I'm looking for in life. I'm considering the Yamaha 250cc as my first bike. I'm 5'4", 135 lbs., so I thought this bike would be suitable. What are your feelings about this bike and do you have any words of wisdom, things I should be asking myself about riding, etc.? Thank you so much for your time. By the way your site is so knowledgeable and I'm learning a lot from it! Theresa Dear
Theresa, As I counsel most "coming up" riders, there's no reason not to start looking at motorcycles before you take a course, but once you've taken the course, most likely on a 250cc like the Yami or a Hondal Rebel, you'll be in much better position to determine your next step. Many riders report they go on to get their own used 250 to continue practice for another 3-12 months before moving up in size. Some do so well in class that they feel a jump to a mid-range cc is going to be just fine, given that they head back to an empty parking lot and do all the course drills again, taking baby steps to learn the new power range and handling characteristics. So, while you're visiting dealers, cast your eyes over those 500-800cc motorcycles as well. At your height, modifications are often necessary to get the right fit. Sit on bikes, take notes, and what you're looking for is a comfortable reach to the handlebar controls, that you can still have that comfort turning the handlebar all the way to one way, leg reach to the ground and foot controls. Also, get the bike off the sidestand and just lean a bike a bit to the left and right and feel for weight and balance. Do all of this over and over until the salespeople are really good and sick of seeing you at the dealerships! With winter coming up, it's time for motorcycle shows, where all the manufacturers gather to showcase what they have ... a great way to see everything in one setting. Definitely allow for a whole day and take pictures while making notes! Check MotorcycleEvents.com or Google to see what's up. Now, there are lots of other things to consider about taking the course, etc. and I have written an 18-page article on the subject: Learning To Ride A Motorcycle. This encompasses all the things that women have mentioned to me over the past 6+ years ... things they wish they had known before getting started. $3.95! Mama Dear Petra, P.S. Can't help but notice how many of us girls are opting for the Shadows! I just love mine. I sit in it, not on it. It is well balanced, at any speed, cornering. Other bikes may look fancier, or faster, but I will keep mine as long as I can. Its just perfect. Thanks for your suggestion on the Buff, I love it. Jane Dear
Jane, My second motorcycle was a Shadow and I never had a lick of trouble with that bike. My only problem was that at 5'10" my legs didn't always have the stretch room, even with an engine guard and pegs, I needed on longer distance rides (many states, many days). But since I did mostly day riding, it wasn't a major issue compared to the wonderful handling, balance and little maintenance needed! Mama Tuesday, November 13 For Canadian Newbie Rider who oopsied on her bigger Intruder: I want to add my encouragement to you newbie Ontario rider. I agree with everything Petra said ... practice on your current bike before going to a smaller one ... practice, practice, and practice ... parking lot time is good time for us newbies! Definitely get Jerry Palladino's videos ... at least "Learn To Ride The Easy Way" and "Ride Like Pro." They helped me immensely. I am also looking at an Intruder and it does have some specific steering difficulties so maybe that and the gravel combined to dump you and your machine. The Intruder is however a very lightweight bike with a very low centre of gravity, relative to other cruisers and I am sure that you can learn how to handle it with practice. Apparently for Intruder cornering, the key is to be on and off the throttle in the corner. "Wrenching" I think they called it ....giving it a little throttle off and on keeps raising the bike up slightly so keeps it from scraping and levering the wheel up, while also using the back brake if necessary to control speed; not going off the throttle into the corner and then throttling up coming out of the corner as is more usual. The old school bikers here all say you shouldn't ride if you can't pick up your bike, but I think that's just not true. Some of us will never be able to pick up our bikes ... my knees will not allow it, even using the easy method that Petra mentions .... so ... we get help! We don't ride alone in places where no one will be around to help! Hopefully your excitement will over come your fear. Best of luck to you. Powderaven, another Ontario newbie rider (note from Mama: an interesting note on handling the throttle through a curve on the Intruder; I'll simply note that staying off the front brake and using the back one is a big point about controlling speed through a curve and I often use clutch/throttle control in a very tight curve, but in a more relaxed curve I opt to maintain my best steady level of correct throttle in the right gear. So many combinations, but this is the thing about the learning process!) Tuesday, November 13 Hi VTM, Dear
Kaye, Other manufacturers who may have a solution for you include Saddlemen and Mustang. Google them to double check what's up! Mama Tuesday, November 13 Hi
Petra, I passed my MSF in Aug, and now have my license, but have been riding as soon as I received my learners permit in July. Some observations I have had on taking the MSF class are: it is very helpful if you have had experience working a clutch shift previously, as it tunes you in to the concept of the rhythm of clutch, shift and gas. Also I did some concentrated afternoons of practice riding in my local college parking lot, with my very patient hubby. Just 2-3 afternoons, but enough to get my confidence up to go out into the neighborhood and drive back and forth and around a real road. So I wasn't a total bike 'virgin' when I went out on the range for the course. This made an enormous difference for me. The only other woman in my class had never been on a bike except behind her boyfriend, had a really hard time, and did not pass. Before I did all that I bought a bike which really fit me (I'm 5' 7") - she's an '02 Honda Shadow ACE 750. I bought her from a gal about my size, her husband had lowered the seat for her. So it was a very good fit from the start. Which is what I wanted for my first bike. I really didn't want to do a whole lot of fiddling before I could start riding her. All the other models I had looked at felt very uncomfortable either in the handle bar reach, or the way the seat felt, some of the Harley's tanks were so fat it hurt my inner thighs. Any way my question is: The bike came with aftermarket loud pipes, and they also gave me the stock pipes. My husband (he has a V-Star 1100) thought the sound was too loud, and was a bit distracting, so he took them off, and put the stock pipes back on. But since then when I am riding she makes a little backfiring sound, sort of like soft popping from time to time when I am downshifting. At the time I was too uninformed to ask these kind of questions to the seller, but does this relate to changing the pipes? I think I am ready for the loud pipes back on, I can barely hear the stock pipes, and I don't think they will be too distracting for me. Also, I have read all the pros and cons of loud pipes and I think they are a good thing if you have them. Since getting my license, I have conquered my goal of up and over and through the hairpin turn on the Mohawk trail here in Western MA. I am looking to create a woman's riding club in this area. So far it is just me on the rider's map! Any one out there? Thanks for all you do to promote riding for Women. I'm 51 years old, previously only a pillion rider, but you gave me a lot of get up and go to do it, now I'm having such a blast riding and meeting some great new friends. Susan in Deerfield, MA. Dear
Susan, I agree that the pros and cons of louder pipes is important to consider and I'm guessing the downside for your hubby (with the louder aftermarket pipes) were that when one follows such a bike, they get the brunt of the noise! It can be tiring following this, as many friends pointed out to me when I had my third bike, a HD Superglide with straight pipes. Ouch! In changing to the stock pipes, that little bit of backfire you're hearing is caused because the air to gas mix is a bit rich and unspent fuel is entering the exhaust system and pops when it hits those heated pipe chambers. A small adjustment to the mix at the carb should solve this. Usually, when a motorcycle is outfitted with aftermarket pipes, the carb is re-jetted (a slightly larger jet orifice to allow more gas flow), so if you did stick to the stock pipes, you might have to rejet to the original one. I'd also double check the condition of the metal gaskets where the pipes meet the frame. They can lose their sealing ability and new gaskets are called for (your change might have been done with the old gaskets). It could also just be that these connections are not completely tight, letting in a bit of air, a classic sign of popping on the downshift. The VTwin Mama Let's Ride Map is the newest addition to the line-up of getting connected to one another! It's only a few months old at this point, so a new system. To double check, you can go to the old Let's Ride list and see who might be in your area. Of course, this map and list only show those who opt in to the systems, so I would expand my search for women's chapters in your area already formed (if you haven't done so already). Those are listed on my Women's Sites page. And just because "headquarters" aren't exactly near you, doesn't mean that there aren't members near you ... I joined the closest group I could find, which is about 50 miles away ... but that's doable for me! Mama Tuesday, November 13 Dear Readers, Dear Mama: We rent motorcycles in several popular destinations in the country such as: Las Vegas, Key West, Rapid City (Black Hills), Santa Cruz, Destin, Fort Myers, Naples, Southern Wisconsin and New England. Please check out our site at www.CycLease.com or call 800-742-2044. Thank you & good luck. You have a great site. Terry Tynan Hey VTwin Mama!: L2 Motorcycle Rentals provides late model Harley Davidson and Honda Goldwing GL1800 motorcycle rentals in Denver, Colorado. Go Well, with Regard, Wayne (Lumpy) Ordakowski Looking for other touring/lodging options? Check out my Motorcycle Touring page! Wednesday, November 14 Dear VTwin Mama, It was amazing I tell you! Of course, you all felt that "passing" feeling before but anyways, I passed. The school was so kind and actually brought in a Honda Rebel for me to ride instead of the Nighthawk they originally had. They lowered the Rebel 3 inches and all I had to do was just wear the Harley boots I got. =) Now I'm looking into some bikes here and there and was wondering are there companies that make Automatic Motorcycles, and if there are, which ones? I want to look at all my options that are out there ya know, can't be too picky. =P Kelcy the 4'8" rider Dear
Kelcy, Yes, there are automatic transmission motorcycles available. Ridley is made here in the US and the rest are being imported from other countries like China, Japan and Italy. To see what's currently in production, what you can find used but out of production, and what to consider in the mega-scooter line-up, take a look at my Auto Tranny Motorcycle Models page. This will get you started on your research! Mama Thursday, November 15 Dear VTwin Mama, We have great rankings in major search engines, cross promote on four major shopping sites and have the lowest fees in the market: only 3% seller fees capped at $35. All of our auction services come with our no risk, 100% unconditional money-back guarantee. If for any reason you aren't completely satisfied, simply let us know for an immediate refund. You simply can't lose and to prove it, see a special
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Friday, November 16 Hi Petra, I had a question (of course :> ) about beginning bikes for big people. Hubby seems to be interested in taking the Riders Edge course next year. He's a big guy - 6'2', 245 and we were wondering about the size of the beginning bikes. I rode a Buell Blast in my class and at 5'9', 210 lbs, I felt like BoBo the clown! My legs were jammed up and it really affected my shifting. I feel a lot more comfortable on my Vulcan 500, but when DH got on it, he could barely fit his feet under the shifter. Is this a case where he just has to 'grin and bear" it during the class, then possibly shop for something with forward controls after the class? Would another option be to get a used bigger bike that fits him and try to take private instruction?? Appreciate any suggestions you may have. Nancy in Michigan Dear
Nancy, As I counseled Kelcy, who at 4'8" was signed up for a course, address the issue with the course provider way before signing up/taking the class. Lo and behold, her MSF course provider took the time to make sure she had something that would work and she passed with flying colors! Since Rider's Edge is the Harley-Davidson MSF, the Blast is what they use, but perhaps there is an old Sporty 883 at the dealership that could be used. The older ones sat higher (pre 2004) and the foot controls are further out, so ask! If this doesn't provide a solution, is there an MSF course nearby and would the typical Rebel/Nighthawks or other 250cc bikes be better? Go to a dealer and sit on them and see if he couldn't learn on that instead of the Blast. Yes, the next step would be to get a bike that fits and find private instruction, so while you're investigating the course bikes, ask if any of the certified people offer lessons on the side. Otherwise I'd go for the "grin and bear it" and just get through the course because there is so much information offered beyond just the actual practice/test time. Mama Friday, November 16 Hi Petra, Dear
Nancy, For Nancy who is looking for an engine guard for her 2002 Vulcan 500: She may be able to get a engine guard on eBay ... they always have that kind of stuff on there. Also eBay Express has stuff too. Jody (note from Mama: Nancy wrote in and told me that the one I found only fits 1996 and previous. In looking at the eBay offerings, it appears this is the same item as well. Any Vulcan 500 riders with more sources for aftermarket parts?! Nancy is also hoping to find floorboards and I noted that Kuryakyn has those ISO wings/boards that might work.) Monday, November 19 Dear VTwin Mama, What cruisers are good for tall people? I'm 5'10" and I've been thinking about getting a Sportster in the spring but a few people have told me I'm too tall for it. I really would like a Harley though, and one without too big of an engine. I thought the 883 would work out perfectly. And I know I've seen people taller than me on them. I saw your comment that older Sportsters are slightly higher, which I didn't know. I've also heard good reviews of the Vulcan from someone my height. Can you think of other bikes that would be comfortable? Or mods that could be made to make something work? Thanks, Kristin Dear
Kristin, So I would head back to the dealer showrooms and sit on bikes, taking them off the side kickstand (centered) and then moving one foot to the peg position and consider your leg room. Stretch that leg out to where it would be comfortable and inquire whether an a highway bar with pegs could be added (in most cases the answer will be yes, but if they can, have them haul out one and show you how it would be!). I will also note that sometimes the handlebar can goof us up just like the short riders. If you're leaning forward for hand controls, that bends us at the waist and further cramps our legs. This is an issue I'll be addressing on my own BMW because I added a butt pad to raise me an inch, but now I'm leaning even more forward and taking the "stress hit" in my shoulders. I'll either be adding a pullback rider or a different handlebar. While you're shopping, consider this body position carefully as it does make a difference! Since you want to stay within a certain cc engine size range, I'd limit my initial searches to motorcycles in the 800-1000cc range at first. Choices include that HD Sporty 883, Kawi Vulcan 800 or 900, Suzuki Boulevard C50 or S50, and Triumph Speedmaster, Mama Monday, November 19 Hey VTwin Mama, Dear
Anon, Monday, November 19 Dear VTwin Mama, You do have to be a little careful turning ... a trike doesn't lean. It turns. But once you've got that down you're good to go. Free on Three, Arlene Dear
Arlene, Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Rhonda, By the by, having little easy answers to bad mannered people is a must! For instance, if someone brings up the "riding is so dangerous," then counter with "did you see the latest fatality report for crossing streets?" Hee, hee ... Mama Tuesday, November 27 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Sherri, Tuesday, November 27 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Anon, It can often be more difficult to find aftermarket accessories for the smaller cc engine bikes (these types of vendors tend to cater to the bigger cruisers. In this case, you might also want to search under engine guard, crash bar, and highway bar! On this Accessories International page you'll see three engine guards ... click on each and check the specifics (including the bike years it fits) and if the dimensions aren't there, call the toll-free number. Then you can take a tape measure out to the bike and get an idea of what's what! Mama Tuesday, November 27 Hi again Petra. Dear
Kelcy, This is the MSF page for all Nevada-based courses. Some have websites but all have phone numbers! I'd start my research there. Also, don't forget that some Harley-Davidson dealers offer the Rider's Edge course, which is based on the MSF. Local HD dealers in Nevada offering a course are shown in this link and might offer a women-only course. Just one more thought ... your cousin might find it ok if the class had guys but a woman instructor ... Mama Thursday, November 29 March of Dimes Ride in Las Vegas 12/8/07 Dear
VTwin Mama, Thursday, November 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Rubyred, The glaring difference is the seat height, which is about 2" higher on yours. In looking at the stock 2007 models, one can see that the seat shape is also very different ... the Nightster has a much more curved deep seated bucket that keeps your body forward than the Sporty Customs. Take a look at this page and you can run your mouse over the models and just quickly see the bikes without having to click on any one ... you'll see what I'm talking about! For my money I'd be changing the seat. Ask the dealer if the Nighster seat will fit your model/year, check my Motorcycles for Short Riders list to see what aftermarket seats have been chosen for a change, or shave out part of the existing seat to make it fit your needs better! Mama Friday, November 30 Ladies Only Night in Birmingham, AL 12/6/07 Dear
VTwin Mama, This event will be held at our dealership - Big #1 Motorsports, 227 West Valley Avenue in Homewood, AL (205-942-3313) from 7:30p-9:30p on December 6, 2007. We really want to reach out to the ladies in our community with this event. Please come and bring all your girlfriends - (P.S. you can bring a guy, if you want...) The first 15 women will receive a $25 Big #1 gift certificate!! Please call Mindi or Jeff at 942-3313, if you have ANY questions. Thanks again for your previous business and we hope to see you there. Friday, November 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have wanted to ride a
motorcycle for as long as I can remember. In 2005 I finally signed up and
passed (top of my class) from the MSF Riders course. Following I went
straight to the DMV and got the motorcycle endorsement! A great day! And then
life just got crazy; we moved from CT to
DC and I didnt have a chance to pursue it. Then in March of '07 I
ended up with a little LX150 Vespa and have had a great time jetting
around DC on that, parking on sidewalks, splitting traffic, it has been a
blast. But I have, since the moment I started riding the Vespa, wanted
more. A chance to get beyond the beltway if you will, to explore more of
my surroundings and Ive felt limited on the Vespa (but grateful for the
experience its provided here in the city). I am now committed to purchasing my first real bike in March of 2008 (thats my deadline). I am excited about going to check out a couple of bikes I have on my mind (Ducati Monster 695, Bonneville Triumph) as well as a couple of others. My question is this, I want to ride my new bike from Dear
Meagan, Yes, I think you could make the DC to WA trip next year, provided you get some serious riding time in on the new bike before leaving. Let's look at some things I've learned from my own experience and what others have noted at this site. I once spent 1,000 miles getting use to a friend's bike before leaving on a 1,400 mile journey. Good thing, as it handled differently then the HD I owned at the time. The practice time was done in three day rides to mimic long saddle times. If you "take" to the new bike and it's handling characteristics fairly easily, I'd log in at least 3,000 miles in increasing length day rides, but the more miles before the trip, the better. Not only will you be polishing your skills, and identifying what you need serious work on, you'll also be finding out how many miles a day you can handle without fatiguing and losing concentration out on the road. I'd also be throwing in deliberate rides when it's raining (lowest traffic times at first please), high traffic city situations, and heavy traffic on busy Interstates with 18-wheelers doing their thing. Given that most long-distance journeys are on a timetable, these are important considerations. Rain, high winds, cold/heat, and other things Mother Nature can throw at a rider, as well as busy traffic and road construction, can upset a schedule fairly quickly. What if you only log in 200 miles on a certain day, but have 350 miles planned? What if it's pouring and visibility is absolutely horrible (get off the road!)? Then you have to factor in the end of every riding day! Honestly, once I've offloaded the gear from my bike and am in my hotel or camping spot, the last thing I want to do is to clean up, get back in riding gear, and then hunt for dinner! But that's just me! Traveling in summer? Take cold weather gear with you! In some sections of the country it's not unheard of to start in 40F weather only to have to peel almost everything off by noon in 90F. My 3,500 round-trip from Chicago to Sturgis taught me that! Also, make sure you have a helmet with full face shield ... the pointy end of grit and rain is not pleasant on the skin! Now, what happens if you start riding the new bike next year and you find that the challenge of skill learning is a longer process than originally conceived? Don't do the trip, at least not that year. Remember, you'll be strapping on travel gear, which not only holds your personal items, but maps, tools, etc. This extra weight requires that you're confident in taking into account the extra load and its positioning relative to the handling of the bike. All of this is food for thought so that you can continue planning. Want more tips from readers? Then visit my Ride Technique: Trip Tips pages ... a wealth of information for the taking. Also check my Motorcycle Travel Center for books and magazines on the subject. Mama
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