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Thursday, October 31 For Elda, who has been bitten by the "bike bug" late in the season: I live in Oklahoma as well. I took the motorcycle safety course May 2002 and have ridden a Honda 250 this summer. I just bought a new Yamaha VStar. I have ridden it twice and it is killing me to not ride now - but I am not 26 - I am 50 and the cold seems to hurt worse now!! Just a suggestion -- but you could take the safety course now -- ride on our nice days this winter -- then take the course again in the spring. The course is very good and I certainly do not think it would hurt to brush up before really getting into heavy riding - especially in the city. I don't know where you live, I live in Norman by Lake Thunderbird. If you live close maybe we could ride together in the spring. Does your husband ride? My husband has a Harley and has taught me a lot since I took my course. You can contact me at louann52@yahoo.com if you would like. Good luck to you and good riding! Lou Ann (note from Mama: good ideas here and I hope it turns out you live relatively near!) Don't forget at this time of the year the dealerships are not as busy and will be able to spend more time answering your questions and showing you bikes that will be suited to new riders. Also keep your eyes open for motorcycle shows in a town near you -- this is a great opportunity to sit on bikes of all shapes and sizes to help you with your big decision. Not only that, it helps relieve the itch of that biker bug bite 'til spring! Laura (note from Mama: I'm just ITCHING to get to a show myself!) I am a Motorcycle Safety Instructor in Kalamazoo, Michigan and my advice is this. Check your local book dealers and see if they have a couple books, two of them by David Hough, one called Riding Strategies and the other one called Proficient Motorcycling. Also check with www.msf-usa.org and check out the books they have for sale -- these books can at least get you thinking about riding safely and get you a very large head start on your course for next year. Trust me -- living in Michigan -- I have the bug also and we Instructors get bit bad in the winter and can't wait to get back at it next year. Hope this helps. Pastor Freak (note from Mama: read, read, read -- I AGREE!) Wednesday, October 30 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Blake, Wednesday, October 30 For Kathy who
is considering a Vulcan 500: Wednesday, October 30 For Gutsy Guy
who didn't finish the MSF course: Tuesday, October 29 Dear VTwin Mama, But my question is I have no driving experience on a bike and I am going to take a motorcycle safety course but not sure when to take it. I live in Oklahoma and the weather will be nasty soon. My husband and I go out on cold days, that's not a problem but ice and sleet are. I don't know if I should wait until early spring (when I will be able to get my bike) and the weather will be better or go ahead and take it now. I am foaming at the bit to get started! I need a little advice! Thanks and I really dig your awesome site!!! Elda B. Dear Elda, To way lay the bug during the upcoming winter months, I would suggest that you begin reading as much as you can get your hands on. Visit my Books/Mag section for a number of books and magazines. The number one recommended book for reading is Proficient Motorcycling which you can get via the Internet at Amazon -- motorcycle books. It's chock full of the basics. You might also want to dive into some of the technical aspects of the bike itself -- after all, keeping your bike in tip top shape is the other half of the equation to good riding. Also, check the links at the bottom of my Home Page and you'll find the links to the major women's riding groups in the U.S. You might find it useful to see if there is a chapter in your area and get in contact. Why not start meeting women in your area over the winter?! You go girl -- we're glad you found the VTwin Mama site and will be happy to answer any questions you have and share your own insights as you begin your most excellent adventure! Mama Monday, October 28 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Martha, To see previous questions and responses on this subject, go to the VTwin Mama Archive section entitled Working on the Bike. Mama Friday, October 25 Dear VTwin Mama, http://www.ridemyown.com/riders/ Dear Sharon, Friday, October 25 Dear VTwin Mama, Anyhow, I did enjoy riding it and did not feel like I was being blown around like on the 600. I am going to stay on the 600 thru to spring. I'm riding now on weekends whenever I can, it's getting chilly up here in the Northeast (Jersey). The rubber side is down. Angela C. Kosar (note from Mama: you go girl! That cork thing sounds like a fishy design. Hmmmm.) Thursday, October 24 For Gutsy Guy
and the course he didn't quite finish: At our site, we used Honda Nighthawk 250s. These worked just fine for me (Im 6), but were too high for my wife ((5) even though her bike had a custom seat which was lower than the standard seat. As long as the bike was moving, she was OK. However, at all stops she had to balance a 300+ pound bike while standing on her toes. She dropped the bike three times in two days and on the third time ended up breaking two bones in her right hand. Until the third time, we were both having a lot of fun. Our instructors were excellent. They have been teaching these courses for years and were enthusiastic teachers and cyclists. The class was evenly split between males and females and included a number of individuals who had no previous cycle experience as well as some who have ridden extensively. I successfully completed the course and my wife still wants to get her license. However, given the physical size of the bikes used she may opt for practicing in a large, empty lot on a bike we purchase until she gets comfortable. So far, we have found two bikes that fit her a Kawasaki Eliminator (125 cc) and the Yamaha Virago (250 cc). Our MSF instructors stressed (as has this site) getting a bike that feels/fits right. Regardless of how good the instructors are, or how well done the program is, if a student is uncomfortable with the equipment either because it has mechanical problems or simple does not fit then the experience will likely be negative. If you are really interested in learning to ride I would check out the MSF courses again. There were multiple sites within an hour to so commuting distance from our home and I expect this is true for many readers. If necessary, look at a couple of locations, their equipment, and watch a session to see if the style of the instructors is compatible with your learning style. Finally, if something is wrong with a particular bike, have it checked. The Nighthawks at our site were very well maintained yet two of the twelve had minor problems. DJ Dear DJ, Wednesday, October 23 For Santa Barbara, CA area riders Dear VTwin Mama, The site is free to all users and is focused on rides located in Santa Barbara County. The site went online 8/5/02 and already has an enormous amount of content. New rides will be added each week until we have all of SB County included. Cheers! Jeffrey Donovan (jeff@sbc-rides.com) Wednesday, October 23 For Sue who is interested in becoming a motorcycle mechanic: There's a home study course through PCDI that I'm taking. It seems to be good; however, it's kinda easy for you can look up the answers in the back of the book. If you get this course, be sure you read it. Go to http://www.pcdi-homestudy.com/?code=9942 for more info. Foxee (note from Mama: you'll find the link to the Motorcycle Repair course on this page: http://www.pcdi-homestudy.com/courses/hm/.) I believe in the Hot Bike or American Iron magazines there is a home based school with videos and books etc that anyone can enroll in. I am not sure of the name though. I know I saw the ad. Sharon, NY (note from Mama: I did some additional digging and found this site: http://www.motorcity.net/Training/Mechanics_Schools/ which may prove to be useful for home study.) Wednesday, October 23 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Alan, http://www.directoryofschools.com/motorcycle-mechanic-school.htm http://www.motorcity.net/Training/Mechanics_Schools/ http://mechanic.school-college-university.info/ http://www.trade-school.org/uti/motorcycle-mechanic-institute.htm I couldn't find anything specific on the HD site itself, so again, contact your local dealer to get some basic info. Or, you can apprentice yourself with a local independent shop -- that might be an idea! Mama Tuesday, October 22 Dear VTwin Mama, I'll be an active contributor to this site from now on, and I will be ordering T-shirts, not only for me but for all my other compadres who ride. Concerning the MSF class - People tell me I handle my bike at least better if not much better than most men around and I almost failed the MSF class. I think it was the perfectionist streak in me - wanting to do everything absolutely perfect first time around. Well, surprise. What you do in the class and how you do it really, in the end, has very little bearing on how you will succeed with your motorcycle. Take the basic info, put it to use, and RIDE, RIDE, RIDE. I have 23,000 miles on my bike, mostly 400-500 mile trips, a couple of 2500 mile trips, and seriously, that is what it takes. I look forward to communicating with all the VTMs - glad I found you! K. Knapp, Snohomish, WA Dear K., Tuesday, October 22 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Barb, Monday, October 21 For Gutsy Guy who started a course but then dropped out: I took extra one-on-one lessons after the motorcycle course. They charged me 20 dollars per hour and it was well worth it. I had a woman instruct me because I felt the men instructors weren't really interested in women riding bikes, I hate to say it in the year 2002, but some men still think women belong in the kitchen. NOT!!!!!!!!!!!! Cathy (note from Mama: and I think some men would benefit from a woman instructor as well in a one-on-one situation -- it's worth exploring that.) Monday, October 21 For Pearl who was wondering if a Shadow VLX 600 can keep up with the "big bikes": Pearl, like starts, stops and corners -- speed needs to be practiced by the new rider. Speed on a bike is intimidating; the sound of the engine, the road flying by, and the noise of the wind in your ears all make speed scary. Your bike will be find traveling all day at 60mph and higher, it is you who needs to practice speed like you practice all the other points of riding. Find a two to three mile straight stretch of road with no cars and practice riding your bike at what ever speed it just over your comfort zone. Try that speed a couple of times. Then go five miles faster and keep increasing your speed until you are comfortable riding at 65, 70 or higher. Then get on a major road with a speed limit of 55 or 60 and ride it for while. Now try the freeway at 70. Try passing a truck or car at 80 or 85. Just to get yourself used to all the "stuff" associated with speed. Sometimes being comfortable with this higher miles per hour can get you out of a potential problem out on the road. I am not suggesting that you speed as you ride all the time, but you should be comfortable with riding at the posted speed limits on major roads and that takes practice. Be safe. Cheryl (note from Mama: great advice to ease into the speed thing.) Monday, October 21 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kathy, Friday, October 18 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Patti, Friday, October 18 For Guy with Guts who left MSF course early 'cause it didn't feel right: I agree with Mama---I think you have what it takes to ride. You just hit a hurdle, and it'll be only one of several you'll encounter. I hope you do find someone who will get you started. Please don't give up, ok? Di (note from Mama: that's right -- don't give up, but find a solution that will put you on the right track again!) If you want to learn to ride, I would strongly encourage you to either find a private instructor or retake the class. I had been on a motorcycle only once in my life as a passenger when I took the MSF class. I had a similar problem controlling the throttle and I dropped the bike. I was a little scraped up, but much more embarrassed - actually utterly, completely embarrassed and I even cried a little. What made it even worse was that I broke the throttle lever (coincidence?) and a few other things. Not only could I no longer ride the bike but my classmate in the second section would also have to use a different bike. I thought the class was over for me, but no, I had to get back on another bike that I was not familiar with and ride around a few times (with everyone watching). It was not the kind of attention I wanted. Somehow I made it through the rest of the class and even passed! I recently took the intermediate class on my new motorcycle, a Suzuki GZ 250, and got the highest score. I love riding my motorcycle. However, on the other hand, is motorcycle riding for you? The money you spend on the MSF class is an incredibly small price to pay to realize your interests lie elsewhere versus buying a motorcycle, accessories, and heaven forbid, having something serious happen. Prior to the class, I had no idea you assumed so much responsibility and risk when riding a motorcycle. That said, if you want to learn to ride, you just have to get back on a bike. Don't let a bad start deter you. Jen from Oregon (note from Mama: and that's the way to stick with your dream and realize it -- but you're right -- some serious consideration should be given to the next step.) I had written in last week about having aching knees and ankles because the gas tank on my Shadow Spirit 750 is much wider than I was used to. Thanks, JRogers, for suggesting floorboards. That seems like a great idea. I do plan to do that when I can afford it. I wanted to offer encouragement to the guy who wrote in about the MSF class. Please don't give up! When my husband and I took the class in August of 2001, neither of us had ever ridden. Several others in the class hadn't either. Everyone was at a different stage. Some had been riding for years, but some of us were total beginners. On the first day of the class, things seemed to be going well for me overall, but I was having the same problem you described. I was having trouble finding the "friction zone." Towards the end of the day, I found it though (a little too much)...I popped an unintentional wheelie and threw myself off the bike, landing on the pavement...hard! Luckily, I had gloves on; otherwise my hands would have been really messed-up. I hurt my knee enough to continue having pain for a couple weeks. I was completely humiliated but got back on the bike and continued to finish the day. Some of the others in the class were complimentary to me about the "guts" it took to get back on the bike. We did finish out the day, but not the rest of the class, but only because it was over 100 degrees (we live in Fort Worth, TX) and we couldn't take the heat. I wanted to quit but I'm so glad I didn't. I started with a 250 Rebel and now ride a 750 Shadow. Riding has turned out to be the most fun I've ever had in my life and I only wish I hadn't waited until I was 40 to start. Better late than never. Also, my husband just turned 53, so he waited a long time to start riding too. He dropped his bike at an intersection once. I'm telling you all this just to let you know that you're not alone with your fears or apprehensions. We all feel them. But anything you really want to do is worth a little (or a lot of) effort. Consider taking the course again. I'm betting things will go much more smoothly for you. Sorry for the length of this, but I remember the encouragement I needed after my fiasco during class and luckily I got it. That's why I ride now. Linda (note from Mama: you don't need to apologize for the length of the important insights you are sharing with Gutsy Guy -- that's the great thing about the Internet -- there's actually room to really pour out our complete feelings and thoughts! And you did it so well!) Thursday, October 17 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Tammi, Wednesday, October 16 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Pearl, Wednesday, October 16 For Kathy who is on a Rebel and wants to move up to a bigger bike, but how to judge what is too big: I started riding a Rebel in May of this year. I had the same problem with the shifting. They do not have the wide gear ratio of bigger bikes. I'm ready to move up to a bigger bike and decided to do a test ride. I was very nervous, I decided on a Honda Shadow ACE 750, which is a lot bigger than the Rebel. I did a test ride and surprisingly was able to handle the bike. I did all the things beforehand. My feet planted firmly on the ground, I could reach the handlebars well, I had the dealer hold the bike so I could see if I could reach the foot controls. I leaned it left and right and pushed it forward and back. I did not feel intimated at all. So I went ahead and gave it a go and have decided to buy it. I can't wait! J (note from Mama: thanks for the encouragement for Kathy and sharing your own experience) Wednesday, October 16 Dear VTwin Mama, Really frustrated by my inability to throttle properly, and concerned I was interfering with the flow of the class, I decided it would be best for me to just stop. While the instructors and students wanted me to continue, my concern was more for them than myself. Moral of the story is: Don't give up as easily as that even if you are very frustrated and discouraged. I'm really kicking myself today for not continuing, as the last day of class is going on as I am writing this, but it seemed the best thing to do at the time. It's not only the women that have these problems. I'm not sure if MSF courses are for absolute beginners, men or women. I'd never been on a motorcycle before. and probably won't again, unless I can figure out some way to practice without the pressure and without a motorcycle. Take care. No Name Guy With the Guts to Write In Dear Guts, Tuesday, October 15 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Indiana Red, Monday, October 14 For Linda whose legs are getting achy by a tank that's too wide: Have
you considered floor boards? You would be able to move your feet around a
little more thus eliminating a bit of stress on the lower legs and ankles. Monday, October 14 For Rhonda in Pittsburgh who is interested in the Honda Magna model: I have heard really good things about the Magna. The few people that I know that ride them can't say enough good things about them, and want everyone to get one. My only suggestion would be to give it a test ride and see how it goes. If everything checks out ok, GO FOR IT! Terri in Baltimore My husband rides an 85 V65 and weve done a lot of research on these bikes. The information weve found is that it has had some habitual problems in the earlier years (including the 83) that I would check out before purchasing. The engine had an oiling problem due to the restricted size of the oiling bolt hole from the oil reservoir to the top of the engine. This problem was detected early on and most owners replaced the bolt with one that could accommodate the needed amount resolving the problem. The next problem that seems to reappear is the loss of second gear. The tines would round off and slip out of gear. You can still ride it that way but you have to skip through 2nd. The third problem is the flattening of the lobes on the cams. Which cant be ridden through but will need to be replaced. This is a powerful bike/engine, the second fastest (the Yamaha V-Max being first) production bike ever built. The good news is that it is somewhat of a cult bike and parts both used and new are easy to come by, however not always inexpensive. The Magna also seems to retain or even increase its value over time. Even with its known problems if I came across one in good condition I would snatch it up at any price tag under $2K. Any more than that I would start looking at what had been done to correct the known problems and overall maintenance of the bike since new. There is also a web site that has a lot of excellent information on both the Magna and the Sabre (same VF1100c engine) at http://disc.server.com/Indices/105301.html Good luck with your hunt. P.S. I've ridden ours... if you have a thing for speed this IS the bike! HammerLady at www.shinnysideup.com Friday, October 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Julie, Friday, October 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Friday, October 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Linda, Thursday, October 10 For Paige and her 2002 600 Purple Honda Shadow: Paige, I think you will be very happy with your purchase, I know I have. I got my 2002 purple Honda Shadow July 27, 2002 I have now put on over 3100 miles on it. I never had so much fun. I just got my endorsement in July as well. I just can't keep my butt off of it. I went on a 200 mile run with the CMA and rode with lots of different bikes. I was able to keep up just fine with all of them. The bike handled so good as well. I have come close a couple of time in dropping my bike but praise God I have been able to hang on to her. I admire you for getting back on and riding away, that's the way its done. Good luck and hope to see you some time in the wind. GOD BLESS YOU TODAY AND ALWAYS. Susanne (the Q) (note from Mama: exactly!) Wednesday, October 9 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Darlene, Tuesday, October 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Mo, Tuesday, October 8 Dear VTwin Mama, I had one near-drop when I stalled on an incline, but I was able to sit it down gently. I thought I would have a difficult time picking it up but I didn't. I brushed my pride off, caught my breath, and jumped back on. (The bike was fine.) Overall, I'm glad I decided on the Shadow as opposed to the Rebel. I can feel my confidence growing day by day and I think I'll be content with it for quite some time. My other dilemma now is how to get it to the DMV for inspection. I'm not quite ready for the ride to the inspection station. I'll figure out something! All for now!! Paige Dear Paige, Tuesday, October 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Lici, Tuesday, October 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Sue, One, gather all your courage together and visit a local independent bike shop and just talk with them. Tell them what's on your mind. Ask their advice. Don't simper and whimper -- ask for what you want, explain your desire and see if they won't let you hang around to observe, learn and then help (at no cost to them of course). You never know till you ask. All it takes is one understanding good person to see that you are serious and start you on your desired path. If that's a little to much for you right now, get your hands on some good basic books that explain engines, fluids, electrical systems, etc. Try hopping onto the MotorcycleBooks site -- they've got a good beginning selection. Learn the basics, write down some intelligent questions -- then visit the local independent bike shop and go for it. Ask your questions, explain your desire, ask for guidance, etc. Notice that I do not mention dealers. Their mechanics are often factory trained -- which you have explained is not an option for you at this point. So go for another route. You have absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain. Just don't apologize for expressing your dream -- we all have them and people (i.e. burly biker mechanic men) have them too. Mama Monday, October 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kathy, Well, alright, I do have a few thoughts that might help. First, you'll never be comfortable with any bike weight if you cannot plant your two feet (three or more if you are an alien) firmly on the ground. No good balance of a bike was ever achieved on tippy toes. Next, you are right, if the forward controls are not easily managed, you are again struggling against the bike and will never have control. Now, go to local bike shops, sit on the bikes and bring the bike off its kickstand to center underneath you. Did you struggle to get it off the kickstand on your own? Lean the bike a little left and right and feel the weight. Does it feel overwhelming? Give this a shot. Also, if you belong to a club of some sort, ask to sit on members bikes (no power on) and feel the differences. This is fairly low risk and people will most likely accommodate your request. Or, wait till a bike show comes to your area this winter and do the same thing! Or, if you are in fact an alien, well, then you've got other options, don't you!?!?!?! Mama Monday, October 7 For LS Rider who is researching bikes and what to ask for in terms of change-outs: Yes the shop you buy your new Fatboy from should have an aftermarket set of pull back risers available for purchase and installation on your new bike before it leaves the shop. I bought a new 2000 FatBoy and before it left the shop I had a detachable windshield, engine guard and easy boy lite clutch installed right there before delivery. I also had pull back risers later put on the handle bars which really made the bike more comfortable. If you need any more advice on a Fat Boy feel free to contact me. Good Luck! Julie in Louisiana (note from Mama: Julie sounds like a good source of overall info and can be reached via email at jacsubzero@aol.com) I have bought 3 brand new bikes since 2000, 2 Yamaha VStar Classics and 1 Harley Sportster. Believe me, the salespeople are only too happy to show you the accessory catalogue when you purchase the bike. For instance, my 2002 Sporty was ordered factory standard, but when she was delivered, her seat, and pipes that I had ordered the day I signed the dotted line, were on her upon delivery. The dealerships are only too happy to accommodate your every whim, so knock yourself out! Ride Safe! Chrisie Shaw in Brooklyn, NY (note from Mama: so it simply doesn't hurt to ask and discover the possibilities) Monday, October 7 For Jan whose roadside assistance plan doesn't seem to much use: I wanted to relate a similar experience to Jan in CT, with her bad experience with the Kawasaki roadside assistance service. I ride a Harley Sportster, and on my first poker run I got a flat tire, with less than 500 miles on the bike. I hadn't had a chance to buy Harley's Roadside Assistance plan, so ended up paying $100 to get my bike towed to the dealer. I signed up for the Roadside Assistance plan the very next day. I figured the $20 for the plan was well worth it. Soon afterwards, I rode my bike from my home in Virginia to my parents' house in suburban Philly, and the tire went flat again! I didn't notice until I got there, so it was a slow leak. No problem - I have Roadside Assistance! I called them, and spoke with a very helpful guy who promised to help. He called back a few times over the course of a 3 hours, but was not able to find any towing service on a Saturday evening in suburban Philadelphia (hard to believe). At least I was in the house, and the bike was in a garage. We ended up using fix-a-flat (great stuff, by the way) and I rode it back to Virginia and got it to the dealer without a problem. Turned out the tube was pinched - a bad fix from the first flat. So my Roadside Assistance plan was useless. But a guy in my HOG group had a great experience with the plan when he broke down in West Virginia, so sometimes it works. Is $20 worth the investment for a plan of questionable reliability? I think so....if they can find a tow truck when you need it, you save the much higher cost of paying for the tow yourself. You have to figure that it is not 100% reliable, though, so you may need a backup plan, such as a cell phone and a can of fix-a-flat. And an older brother who lives nearby (as Jan had). Nancy in VA (note from Mama: oy vey -- and here I am without any older brothers! I've simply GOT to call my mother about this and issue my formal complaint. Much too late really to do anything about it . . . hmmmmm) Friday, October 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Friday, October 4 Dear VTwin Mama, For as much as I have ridden my Sporty (which isn't a lot), I really enjoy it. It has been lowered, so I am able to touch flat foot without a problem. The bike seems a little heavy, but I assume I will get use to it once I get riding more regularly in the Spring/Summer (it seems forever away). My best advice for Angela is to check out www.harleydavidson.com and click on Dealers, Used Motorcycles and see what the dealers are selling a comparable 2001 Sporty 1200 Custom for in her area. That should give you a pretty good idea of what you may get out of your bike. I am with V-Twin Mama though and try to wait until Spring, everyone now will be looking for a deal and a cheap bike, especially with Christmas coming up. It wouldn't hurt to place an ad in a local paper and see what kind of response you get...If it doesn't sell for what you want, then wait until Spring and try again. Good Luck and Happy Selling, Sue (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your insights and suggestions!) Friday, October 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Here's a copy of my letter: Dear Good Times Owners Club, I am writing this letter to express my dissatisfaction with your emergency roadside assistance service. Let me explain what happened. Saturday, September 14th dawned bright and beautiful; a perfect day for a motorcycle ride. While I enjoy riding with friends, I also enjoy riding solo, considering myself prepared against mishap with a cell phone and my Good Times Owners Club (GTOC) card. Today would be a solo ride touring central Massachusetts. After doing my routine pre-ride checks (fluids & tires), I easily started my 2001 Kawasaki Vulcan 750 and headed north. I live in eastern Connecticut and I-395 serves as a quick way to reach popular riding areas. Traffic was light on I-395. My leather jacket was keeping out the morning chill and all was right with the world. Suddenly, the 750 started to loose power and backfire. As I maneuvered to the edge of the road, power loss continued and the tach started to swing widely. Not knowing what caused all this to happen, I shut the bike down. A quick check revealed no structural damage but something seemed wrong with the electrical system. I switched the key On and the system was dead. Clearly, I was not going anywhere. Not to fear, I thought. I have emergency roadside assistance service with my GTOC card. After securing my bike as far away from traffic as possible, I pulled out my cell phone and GTOC card. I immediately got through and my active membership was verified. I spoke to Casey and he seemed very efficient and courteous. He took my location and told me to call back if I didnt hear from anyone in a half hour. I thanked him, noted the time, and settled in to wait. This isnt so bad, I thought. Its not too hot, Im safely off the road and in the shade. I can deal with this. Thirty minutes later I had not heard a peep from Casey or seen any potential towing service. I called back as directed. Casey apologetically informed me that he was not able to get anyone to come get me. One towing service no longer towed motorcycles, a second went out of business, and a third was unavailable to tow me but there was a slight chance he could be convinced to come in about 3 hours. Also, he was not on the plan and Id have to pay for it and submit the bill for later reimbursement. Huh? How can an emergency roadside assistance plan not provide roadside assistance? Casey replied that I was in a Bermuda triangle and there were not many services available. I mentioned to Casey that I was on the east coast, 2 exits north of the Connecticut border on an interstate highway. It seemed to me there should be plenty of towing services. I could understand this if I was stranded somewhere in the wilds of Montana, I exclaimed. Actually, we have more services available in Montana, Casey replied. I cant believe this. Look, Im only 30 miles from home. Ill get my own help, and I hung up. After a few more phone calls and the moral support of a passing motorist who stopped to help, I finally got a hold of my brother who agreed to come to my rescue (Thank God for older brothers!). By mid afternoon, we heaved the 750 into his pickup and I finally headed home. What have I learned from this whole affair? That the thought of having the GTOC emergency roadside assistance card in my wallet was more comforting than the actual service it provided. As a 42-year-old woman who believes in always being prepared, I am quite frankly surprised to realize how misleading your service is. The roadside assistance plan was the major reason why I joined the GTOC. I am enclosing my membership card since it is of no further use to me. As the old adage says, Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. Please remove my membership from the GTOC and your phony roadside assistance plan. Jan in CT Dear Jan, Thursday, October 3 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Rebel 3, Thursday, October 3 In regards to changing the bars before you purchase the bike....... they will do anything for money as long as it is within the legal scope of things. I would say it would be less $$ if you can do it yourself....and more fun. Sharon (note from Mama: yes, it CAN be fun, but to each her own) You could have your bars switched out either before or after your purchase. Choosing the right bars is going to be easier after you have ridden it a few times. I am 5'3" and ride a FB. The one thing I felt I had to do first was go to a more narrow seat. The stock bars were not all that bad, although I did change them to Chubby 508's. Fanci4Nanci (note from Mama: hmmmm, you're right about trying it out, but sometimes the shortcoming is THAT obvious and should be addressed immediately.) Harley Davidson dealers are almost without fail the easiest to deal with on getting a new bike "perfect for you" before you ride off. The amount of accessories and equipment available to them is much larger, even on brand new models, than any of the metrics. That is part of what you pay for when you shell out for a Harley. Different bars, installing risers, raising and lowering the seat height, adjusting the controls to fit, these are all things you should do before you take delivery, regardless of your bike's make and model. Advise your reader to tell the salesman her/his concerns, and if the salesperson doesn't have satisfactory answers, to go to the store manager. I am sure that with a brand new Fatboy sale and over $20K on the line, your reader will get the management's attention. Dave "G-Man" Hembroff, Editor, SouthWestRider.com (note from Mama: right, use your leverage as the buyer!) Yes, you can make these types of changes before delivery of your bike. In fact, a good salesman SHOULD ensure that he has covered any changes that are needed for a safe ride as well as other areas. When I bought my new Low Rider, the dealer had a person dedicated to add-on parts and accessories. He made sure that I could easily flat-foot my new bike. He went through the suggested changes that would enhance my safety (I added an engine guard, halogen fog lights that mount to the guard, a switch to change my rear directionals into 3-way brake, turn, stop lights). Next was comfort & convenience - here I opted to add a removable sissy bar & luggage rack (since I solo ride and like the sleek look, I usually ride without these but wanted them for trips). Then we talked about performance. The first thing I added was an oil cooler, something badly needed here in the South where temps are high and we ride year round. I also added the carb kit and Screamin' Eagle pipes. I knew these were something that I would eventually add and found out that parts put on BEFORE delivery are warranteed by H-D for one year parts & labor. Parts put on after delivery are only warranteed for 90 days by H-D. The other added bonus is that you are financing the add-ons that you know you would be getting very soon, especially the pricier ones. I opted to not add any chrome, one because the bike already had a lot and 2, because that was something that could be added a little at a time without major cost (in most cases). So, the short answer is YES - you can and SHOULD make changes before delivery of your new Harley-Davidson (I can't answer for any other brands). Donna/Brogbiker (note from Mama: good solid advice here) Dear VTwin Mama, Dear LS Rider, Dear VTwin Mama, I looked at some other Shadows today thinking of upgrading my 600. I liked the Honda Shadow 750ACE Deluxe, and I also like the Shadow Sabre. Do you have any recommendations? I did get your e-mail (about getting rid of the Sportster that her husband was riding but has a bigger one and it doesn't really suit her) -- we are going to sell the Sportster, it seems the market is saturated with HD Sports. My husband does not want to take loss on it and is upset. He paid 11,000 for the 2001 (extra, forward control, back rest and real comfy seat). Its a custom Sport -- what do you think we should sell it for? What bikes do Mamas like? I'm looking for a bike that's can do highways and get good gas mileage. The 750 is appealing but I was looking at the 1100 for better gas mileage. The 600 gets just about 100 miles to a tank. I look forward to hearing from you. Angela Dear Angela, Keep in mind that on many model bikes, the gas tank can be changed out for something larger so that you have a greater range of riding before you need to gas up. VTwin Mama favor the Honda Shadow series, Yamaha VStars, Suzuki Intruders, Buell Blasts and HD Fatboys. Size is a matter of your personal size and what fits you. I can't comment on the differences between the Shadow 750ACE Deluxe and the Sabre, but if any sisters have an opinion, I hope that they share it! Mama Wednesday, October 2 For Pamela who mourns the fact that the Virago is no longer manufactured: I also wanted a Virago for the light weight and easier handling, but I wanted a newer bike and was having trouble finding just the Virago I wanted. I would suggest that Pam try the Suzuki Intruder 800 or 1400. Hammerlady rides a 1400, as I do. They are lighter weight, chopper style, and shaft drive - just like the Virago. And I really, really like mine (okay, I love it.) April For AJ in England who wants to know if she should consider one: AJ, the problem with the Viragos right now is that they are no longer being made so I wouldn't recommend one. Parts and customizing will be harder and harder to find. I would look into a bike that is still being made. Viragos were great bikes but the Yamaha V-Stars took their place. Try looking at the 650 V-Star but if you can afford it go right to the 1100 -- almost same weight with more power. Cheryl Tuesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Bea, Tuesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Tuesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Everyone has a different level of confidence starting out, so go with what you feel is right. Don't get something you'll feel intimidated by. My first bike, a Honda Rebel 250, was the right size to start on. Now I'm ready for my next bike, which I think will probably be a Honda Shadow A.C.E. 750. My husband has one and I've ridden it a little. It is still a little intimidating, but I feel I'm ready. Also, I know the feeling of wanting someone to appreciate that you passed the MSF course. I had never had experience with a manual transmission, so that alone took some practice before I understand how to shift. Linda (note from Mama: yahoo to you for your accomplishments as a rider and for taking the time to assure an even newer rider that not only are they are on the right track, but that it's really, really ok to ask questions! That's our favorite pastime here at VTwin Mama -- questions, responses and insights!) Tuesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, |
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