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Wednesday, November 27 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear LC, Tuesday, November 26 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear wvmtndog, Monday, November 25 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Mama Sally, Friday, November 22 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Anxious, Meanwhile, review the manual for your bike (and if you don't have one, get one) and learn all the controls by heart so that you're that much farther ahead when you actually get out for your first practice. And remember, sometimes excitement of doing a new thing masks itself partially in fear of that new thing -- so visualize a good first ride (instead of everything that MIGHT go wrong) -- then use that positive mental image and learning to go, go, go! I know you can do it -- but make sure that you are flat footed when seated so that you can handle it all -- that's a HUGE key to the whole thing. We're behind you 100% (and are visualizing everything positive for you also)! Did you think that I created a General Jitters section in my Archives for nothing?!?!?!?! – Mama Thursday, November 21 For BJ who has fallen for the Honda Shadow ACE Deluxe 750 but wonders if it's right for her: BJ, I ride a Honda ACE Deluxe 750. It is the bike I chose after taking the MSF class and getting my license. I rode many many years ago, but back then the biggest bike I ever had was a Honda 360. All of that being said, I love my 750. It handles nicely at slow speeds and I feel fairly stable on the interstate amongst traffic. I'm 5'9" and the bike fits me perfectly. I test rode the Vulcan 800 (several models), a used Virago 750 and a Yamaha VStar 650. The Honda was by far my favorite. I've had her for two years now and if I wasn't thinking about traveling a lot in my retirement, this would be the bike for the rest of my life. But thoughts of coast to coast traveling have me dreaming of a VTX 1800. My point is, you can't really be positive that you are buying enough bike when you start out. The important thing is to buy a bike that you feel stable enough on to get out and ride. The bike also has to 'speak' to you. In other words, you've got to fall in love with it a little bit. It is a fine line you walk in trying to get a bike that is small enough for you to feel confident on, and getting a bike big enough that you won't outgrow it. – Shadowlady (note from Mama: I can identify with the "falling in love a little" part -- there's just something about certain bikes -- the way you feel when you sit on them and ride them and care for them -- it DOES matter! It is a fine line and one that gets easier with experience.) Thursday, November 21 For Cam (back on June 5) whose bike starts jerking madly at higher speeds: Cam's problem with jerking/loss of power sounds remarkably like a problem I had only a month or two after I bought my 2001 Suzuki Intruder. I'd be riding at 65 mph on the highway when the engine started to sputter, and it was not fixed by putting the gas on reserve, or getting better gasoline, or messing with spark plugs, or... you get the idea. I was frustrated! Took it to the dealership I bought it from, and they couldn't find a thing wrong. Took it back on the road, with same results. Finally took it to a different dealership, and within an hour, they found that the battery cables had been improperly installed!!! My dealership mechanics had used screws that were too long for the holes in the battery terminals, so the cables were actually rattling as I drove along, making an intermittent electric current. Needless to say, the dealership I bought the bike from paid for the new part... Hope this helps. – Heidi (note from Mama: all insights to solving technical problems are helpful! Thanks for taking the time to explore the Archives and respond to a question that previously had not received any input besides my own! It always amazes me how much stuff can happen on a bike that is never quite obvious -- and thus a great reason to explore these issues on this site! You never know how many other readers will expand their knowledge base with this kind of sharing of information. Truly useful.) Wednesday, November 20 Dear VTwin Mama,
Dear Vinny, Wednesday, November 20 Dear VTwin Mama, I'm looking to buy my first bike. I have my license and took the MSF course again, because it's been 20 years or so since I did it last time. BOY It's changed! I've sat on a lot of bikes in the showrooms, and I just really love the feel of the Honda Shadow ACE Deluxe 750. I feel like the weight is more under my legs than in front or back of me - lots more controllable and easier to ride. It just feels "right" to me. I do have two concerns though. I've noticed some people in reviewing that bike have said the 32 degree rake on the front fork make for unstable low speed turns. The nearest competitor is the Suzuki Marauder 800. It's got a 36 degree rake, so that would be even worse, right? Has anyone experienced this and has it been something "big" to overcome? My second concern is that this IS my beginner bike. I think that 750 is at the top end of size for me. If the Shadow didn't feel so good to me, I would really be more comfy with a 500 or 650, I think. Dear Hubby is pushing me into the 800 though, saying I need one I won't grow out of for a few years. The 800 is 50cc bigger and the bike is 50 lbs lighter too. Wouldn't this tend to make it REALLY peppy and easy to push around on the highway? I'm thinking maybe too much for me to handle. I would love to hear anyone's opinions on these two concerns. EEK. I didn't mean for this to be so long either! Thanks for listening. – BJ in TX Dear BJ, Your dear husband is speaking from experience, and knows that many riders often times start with a smaller bike and then quickly realize that they want something bigger, and question whether they couldn't have started with the bigger one to begin with! A very natural reaction -- but one born from a positive first bike experience. And that's the key -- to get a bike that will allow you to enjoy your reentry into bike riding. Starting with something too big or that doesn't feel right immediately starts you not trusting your bike or yourself. A BIG no-no. Trust your instincts here. As for the front end rake of a bike, I agree that too big of a rake does alter turning at slow speeds, but is a learned technique no matter what the bike or rake angle. Slow turns is always one of the more difficult things to master, and requires time on the bike -- no exceptions! My first and second bikes where 750s -- and I rode these from 1979 to 1994 -- and did two major cross country rides. The only reason I ever changed to my current bike is that I didn't like my leg room (even with highway pegs mounted forward). If your finances allow, why not consider a used bike for cheap in the size range you are considering to determine your comfort level, which can then be sold when you are in better position to evaluate the "perfect" new bike for yourself. Last, each person "sits and feels" different on a bike, so while your husband is a peach for supporting your choice to ride, he can't gauge a bike for you. 50cc plus or minus is not a huge consideration in my estimation. Again, your instincts have value. Stick with them! And you go girl! – Mama Tuesday, November 19 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Janet, Tuesday, November 19 For Kathy N. who was wondering about shifting on the Vulcan 500: I have a 2002 Vulcan 500 LTD I have been riding since May of this year. I started on a Rebel 250 last year and there is some difference in shifting on it and the Vulcan. I do not seem to have to shift as quickly on this bike but you do have to shift a little more often for certain speeds. I was shifting into 6th gear at around 50 mph and at times it would seem to be whining out. My husband spoke to some people at the VROC (Vulcan Riders and Owners Club) site and they suggested to change the sprockets on the bike. So far he has changed the front sprocket on it and it has made a big difference. I get much smoother ride and also shifting is farther apart between speeds. We are talking about changing the rear sprocket this winter to improve highway performance. On the front we changed from a 16 tooth sprocket to a 17 tooth. On the rear we plan to go from a 42 tooth to a 40 tooth. The gear ratio from 16 front and 42 rear is 2.63. Changing it to a 17 front and 40 rear give the gear ratio of 2.35. You won't lose any power doing this, gives much better performance at highway speeds. With only the front changed so far I can now shift into 6th at around 60 to 65 mph. So shifting is much improved. I can't wait to see what changing the rear will add to the bike. We ordered the sprockets from www.sprocketspecialists.com. Hope this helps and good luck. If I can be of any more help just let me know. – Lil Bit (note from Mama: thanks a ton for sharing this specific info that is sure to help Kathy ponder her next move!) Tuesday, November 19 For Kathy who in contemplating moving up from a Rebel: Glad to hear of another woman starting to ride. I started on a Virago 250 about a year ago. I loved it. I am vertically challenged and it was perfect for me. I recently went up to the V Star 650 Custom, (everyone said I would before the year was up, and they were right) The only problem I ever had was going up inclines, the Virago didn't seem to like the hills very much, had it full throttle and still lacking behind our group. Other than that it was great. Don't know it the hill climbing would be a problem for your part of the country. What ever you decide, do what right for you, not anyone else. Ride Safe.. – Glenda B. (note from Mama: thanks for the encouraging note to Kathy!) Monday, November 18 More for Janet who is pondering her first bike choice: This struck me as a pretty easy question really. If you're sure you want a 250, there's also the Suzuki Savage that is used in the (www.manys.org) classes here in NY. I think you should just look around and get whatever one you find for the best price as I think you'll outgrow it anyway so don't dump a lot of cheese on it. The Rebel was also made briefly as a 450 as well and I've noticed that they seem to have held their value and often resell for the $2k they originally sold for nearly 20 years later. If you can find one you'll get your money back if you don't learn how to drop it. Like Petra, I learned on a 750 (Maxim) and like keeping up with the big dogs on the highway. I'm currently the proud Mama of an '85 Virago 700 and it will take one hell of a demo ride to pry me off of it. Don't underestimate yourself, if you find a mid-size bike you like, give it a whirl. Just because it can do 90 mph, doesn't mean you have to. A lot of women worry about the weight but you're supposed to be riding it, not carrying it around. Just keep the center of gravity low and the bike will do the rest. At 5'5" the Virago is my perfect bike. You might also consider a Shadow or Intruder. If it's comfortable and your feet are on the ground you'll have no trouble. Just don't ride faster than your angel can fly! Blue skies and Laughter. P.S. If you can get to Gettysburg PA in June, be sure to be at the Mid-Atlantic Women's Motorcycle Rally (www.mawmr.com). All the big manufacturers will be there with demo rides available at this special event just for women. (read as "no competing with all those guys for a spot") See ya there! – Inga Bubar (note from Mama: thanks for your insights -- it is soooo true that most readers have indicated that while they might start small, invariably they move up to a bigger bike within a year!) Friday, November 15 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kathy, Friday, November 15 More for Janet G. who is considering either a Virago 225 or a Rebel 250: I rode a Rebel 250 all summer. I loved it. It was very easy to handle, light weight and my feet touched the ground with plenty of room. I am sorry I can't compare the two bikes but I highly recommend the Rebel. Good luck! – Lou Ann (note from Mama: and every little bit helps!) Thursday, November 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Cathy, Wings of Gold And the list goes on and on. VTwin Mama sisters -- any favorite sites you would recommend? – Mama Thursday, November 14 For Janet G. who is considering either a Virago 225 or a Rebel 250: I don't know anything about a Virago 250cc, but I started out on a Rebel 250cc and loved it. I would recommend maybe getting a used one and keeping it for about a year and then step up. Also take a MSF course. I don't know her name, but I do know that a lady rode her Rebel from California to the Women and Motorcycling conference in Buckhannon, WV this past summer. That shows how good the Rebel is. – Bobbye (note from Mama: wow, that's a long trip on a 250cc bike, but then I saw the movie on the guy who rode a riding mower across several states to see his ailing brother. Chutzpah, either way!) Either of these motorcycles would be a fine starter. You could go a step bigger I think and look at a Honda Shadow 600 VLX. It's a very light motorcycle and it's wonderful to handle on the road. I know where there's a used one for sale for around $4000 if you are interested. Also, if you know a person who's good with a wrench, I have a Kawasaki KZ400 for sale for $250. It runs well, but cosmetically it needs some tender lovin' care. – Foxee (note from Mama: Foxee can be reached at foxdragon@cuttingedge.net if you're interested Janet.) My first bike was (and still is) a 1982 Honda Nighthawk 450. It's light, easy to handle and looks bigger than it is. I also have a 1977 Kawasaki 750. It looks and handles pretty much the same, but much faster. Don't get me wrong, the Honda will keep up with the big boys, do wheelies and lay tread, but the Kaw was built for racing. (Consequently, I don't ride it very much, I'm a little leery of the speed and quicker response.) Also, one thing to keep in mind, how much shop time do you want? Check with repair shops and find out which has the most problems. My Honda has not been in the shop, and I have managed to ride when hubby can't because his is in the shop. Anyway, my suggestion is, do a little more research and sit on both, maybe test ride one or both of them, if they'll let you and go with the one you like the best. – Traci S. in Kansas City, MO (note from Mama: good thoughts on asking mechanics what they think. So Janet, find an independent mechanic locally and query. I remember being interested in a Jeep Wrangler cage once until I talked to a tow truck friend who said he towed more of those than was good. Just food for thought.) Wednesday, November 13 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Karen, That said, now there are multitudes of ways to find riding groups in any area. For you, I'd log onto the SierraScooterScope site which broadcasts all the rides, events, etc. in our Sierra Mountain area (and under the Local Interest side link, they've got a listing of local clubs). I've also just recently discovered a new site dedicated to hooking up riders at http://www.ridemyown.com/riders for U.S., Canada and the International scene. Then, you can also check the links at the bottom of the home page for the more organized women groups and chat forums to see what's around. I know that one of the local Carson City sisters (Amy) was working on getting a chapter of Women on Wheels started here. Last, but not least, there are riding groups organized around the manufacturer of your bike (like Honda groups, etc.) which can be found by using a good search engine. So, begin your search there and maybe we'll put together a VTwin Mama ride next year around Lake Tahoe! – Mama Tuesday, November 12 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Janet, When I typed in the subject Rebel versus Virago 250s in the Google.com search engine, a few VTwin Mama pages popped up, so somewhere buried in the Type of Bike to Ride archive are opinions on these bikes. I'm hard at work streamlining this awkward page (just a running list of 22 months of input) into segments by manufacturer, but it's proving to be difficult to slice it up. I'll keep trying! – Mama Monday, November 11 Dear VTwin Mama, But in need of some help. Does anyone know where to get custom shocks made? I have one problem, small problem but definitely major. I am 4"9" and barely tip toe one side and no touch the other (no lectures please-I know the dangers). I just have to shout out. Smiling all the way...I just put my first 40 miles on my bike and man am I in love! This will be a long winter! Every one have a great winter! – Shorty 600 Dear Shorty, You might also visit the Home of the Short Bikers at http://www.ki.org/sbl/ -- their forum might have some more specific solutions for you, or least a chance to write in and pose your question there as well! – Mama Monday, November 11 Senior Scooter: Getting older has its drawbacks but I guess there aren't too many good alternatives to getting older. Whenever you see a gathering of seniors, it is an even bet they are talking about everything that is wrong with them. You know, the usual -- prostrate, bowel, leg aches, eyesight, etc. Well, I am a senior and I absolutely refuse to discuss these issues with everyone else. If I have a problem, I find a solution. It is not always the solution I like but I handle it the best way I know and I don't discuss it with every guy I see on the street that is past 50. No sir. With this in mind, I bought myself a new scooter. I wanted something that was easy on gas and could zip me to the store and about town. This seems to meet my every need. I love it! – sent to me by DJ, source unknown (note from Mama: this is hilarious!)
Friday, November 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear SC, Thursday, November 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Karen, Thursday, November 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Elda, Wednesday, November 6 Dear VTwin Mama, I'm not sure what the riding courses are like in your area. Here in Illinois we have a state-sponsored MSF course (Motorcycle Safety Foundation), which is essentially free after a nominal fee to hold your place in the class. The only problem is.... they fill up FAST! So from that point of view, if you have a class you can just walk into - go for it! Also, keep in mind that even experienced riders will be a little rusty at the beginning of a season. So you may want to consider taking the course now, to get it under your belt. That way you can a) have it out of the way, and not think about it all winter long, and b) start out the year with you and your husband on a little bit closer level. If you can't get into a class this late in the year, and if it's not prohibited in your area, consider practicing in an empty parking lot somewhere. I got lucky - there's a church within pushing distance from my house. My husband and I, who learned together, pushed the bike over & practiced every day after work. Then when we got into our classes, we weren't quite so nervous. Hope this helps, – Dar, (note from Mama: all thoughtful insights are helpful -- and yours is no exception!) Wednesday, November 6 Dear VTwin Mama, My point is that there is an alternative to the Harleys......consider an Indian. The Scout is comparable to the Sportster, and the Spirit is comparable to the Fat Boy. The Indians have a lower center of gravity and are more stable. So if you're worried about keeping up with the guys, or want something a little more classy, check out the Indians after you've checked out the others. They're back, and back with a lot of class. Today we went on probably the last ride of the season for up here, a Toy Run for Brightside, a center for children....it snow showered last night, it was about 34 when we left, but with about 3500 bikes doing the 12-mile run, it got pretty warm in the sunshine. We had a great time; this was my first large run (I hate to ride in things like that alone, and am just beginning to hook up with a few other female riders in the area); I had done a run with about 100 bikes a couple months ago, and was in the front of the pack cause they knew I'd never participated in a run. This time it was a free-for-all and we ended up in the middle, but still was a pretty good time. I just recently signed up for your newsletter and find it quite informative. And archiving the "bike to ride" section by manufacturer would be a good alternative. Keep up the good work....will check in with you again!! – Claire in Western Mass. Dear Claire, Tuesday, November 5 Dear VTwin Mama, You've touched a soft spot in me. My husband and I currently own five Viragos along with some other bikes as well. You have two spark plugs. The locations are: While sitting on the bike, plug number one, rear cylinder right side, plug number two, front cylinder left side. The tops of each cylinder have a chrome cover, looks nice but blocks access to the spark plugs. Starting with the rear cylinder right side, remove the two disc screws in the chrome cover with a 5mm hex wrench and remove spark plug wire, to reveal the spark plug. Do the same to the front left cylinder. To remove the spark plug either use the tool kit provided with the bike, or a 13/16ths deep well spark plug socket wrench. Replace with an NKP7 or a W22EP spark plug. Make sure you get the spark plugs from a motorcycle dealer as the ones with the same number from an automotive shop will not have the removable cap. The spark plug top should look like a threaded screw, it will come with a cover that you can unscrew with a pair of pliers only if you purchase from a motorcycle shop. The cap cannot be removed if purchased from an automotive store. Also, the spark plugs should be gapped between .33 and .35. Be sure you do not over tighten the spark plugs when inserting them into the cylinder. Snug is good enough. The engine is aluminum and can strip easily. This might sound stupid, but be sure to put the spark plug wire back on as I have forgotten this once and wondered why the bike didn't start. Put the covers back in place - be sure you did not mix the right side with the left side as they are made to only fit in one way. Personally, when I remove the covers, I place the screws for that side, by that side. This way I don't get them mixed up and I know everything that I take off of that side, stays on that side. Happy wrenching, – Rain, Biker Ally Magazine (www.bikerallymag.com) (note from Mama: thanks Rain for this specific information!) Tuesday, November 5 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kathy, Monday, November 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Sarah, Monday, November 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Chris, Right laning ANYONE is illegal as far as I know, but maybe some readers have more factual, law-related information that would be useful to know. Chime in any time! – Mama Monday, November 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Friday, November 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Clueless (but NOT hopeless), Friday, November 1 For Elda, who has been bitten by the "bike bug" late in the season: I live in Wisconsin and I took the MSF class in the month of September (5 years ago). Passed the class, got my license, and thought I would be waiting until spring to have a chance to ride. Well, I went to look at motorcycles to get an idea what the cost was and what I would be comfortable on. By October 31 I was picking up my new bike. I rode around the neighborhood until the fallen leaves gave me a little scare. I only put 50 miles on my new baby and stored it for the winter. As soon as April came and the weather was somewhat bearable, I bundled up and started riding, riding, riding. I put on 500 miles by May 1st. Needless to say that was one of the longest winters. The excitement and anticipation kept me going through those long months. It is probably best to wait until spring to take the class. You know mother nature can be soooooo unpredictable. Besides, as mama suggested, there is enough to keep you busy to prepare for your new adventure. Good Luck Elda! Riding your own -- the best way to go – Linda (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your own late-in-the-season journey -- very inspirational!) Friday, November 1 For Kathy who is trying to move up from her Rebel 250: Hey there mama, been awhile for me to write...we must all get that bike bug love riding. I just cannot get enough riding in and I am lucky to live in southern CA. I was wondering if Kathy checked out the 800 Suzuki Intruder...as I said before, I'm 5'3", 134 lbs. -- had the front and back lowered and had the seat shaved down so it fits perfect. I have to friend with a Dyna Wideglide and Sportster 1200..and I can keep up with all. I've been across the states on it -- its a great bike.....great job mama in all you do for all us woman riders. Thanks. – Georgia in Lakewood, CA (note from Mama: good to hear from you and thanks for sharing your thoughts.) |
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