|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Saturday,
October 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Cheryl, Saturday, October 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Gary, Saturday, October 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Shorty, You will also do well to take a motorcycle riding course that will start you off on a 250cc bike (or something similar). This will help you get your bearings and some riding time so that you can gauge what you think you might want to shop for. There are no pat answers to your question, except that you'll need to research your options. Check for a motorcycle show in your area this coming winter at Motorcycle Events. It will give you lots to think about! – Mama Saturday, October 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Slow but hopeful, Saturday, October 2 For Sandra whose inseam is 28" and she's trying to research bikes: I agree about height doesn't necessarily come up to the same inseam. But like Mama said, it's just how most people think of it. Just to let you know, I'm 5'2" with 28" inseam. And I comfortably fit flat footed on my 750 Aero . . . it has a hair less than a 26" seat. I can sit on a bike that says it has about the same seat height but if the seat is a little wider I can't get my heel down. The Short Riders List here does give a good idea on what to try. It's just like shoes . . . you've got to try them on for yourself to see if they fit. – Jennifer (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Saturday, October 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kurt, Saturday, October 2 For Carol who wrote in about the importance of not getting over tired: This is in response to Carol who suggested another element to watch for in addition to practice: tiredness. I've been riding for almost 2 years and take short breaks (ha, 4 months) because of the intense heat in our AZ desert. Now that it's cooler, I'm riding again but also have to watch that tiredness element as I consider myself a new rider again. Amazing how much we forget! But, with lots of practice, practice, practice, that tiredness starts fading. Am looking forward to at least 7 months of riding through the winter! Really, it's cooling "down to" 95 this weekend!! Keep riding Carol! I'm 52 and love my 2003 Yamaha V-Star 1100! – Barbara in Queen Creek, AZ (note from Mama: yes, I agree that new riders will find that over time, they will become less fatigued because the actual mechanics of riding become more second nature. Still, as a veteran rider, I guard against fatigue all the time . . . monotonous long road stretches, heavy traffic patterns and the like will do it as well! And kudos to your own excellent riding adventure!) Saturday, October 2 More for Judy who has a strong message about novelty helmets after losing a loved one: So sorry to hear of your loss. I can only imagine how devastating this must be. While I hear your message about the novelty helmet...I also hear a lot of other things here. My son is probably one of the best riders I have ever seen. A natural...he wears a novelty helmet and I cringe. I always wear a DOT helmet when I ride. While both myself and my best girlfriend of thirty plus years both wear helmets, we are upset at his choice. On the other hand, I have no control over this. It is his choice! I am confident in his abilities and trust his judgment in spite of how I feel. And while I don't want to get philosophical here, I do believe that it is up to a higher power and we are protected and taken when it is our time. It is hard for us survivors but, I believe that there are other powers at work. While this is a site for women riders and mentoring, there is also a lot of other support that goes on for women. In that forum, I hear other hurt here as well. I am not a psychologist but, want to put my two cents in (for what it is worth). It is so hard to let go of a man we love. I was married for 22 years to what I thought was "the love of my life." But, after many years of experiencing his alcohol and drug abuse and infidelity...I had to call it quits. It hurt terribly but, it was the right thing to do. He is ill now and I have moments of guilt and sadness. But, the moments get smaller. I am now married to my best friend and supporter. I love riding with him and being with him. He has been a great mentor and supporter to me of riding and everything else in life. I love riding...it helps me keep everything today and in the past in perspective. It is a good outlet and helps me to keep grounded. I still have days where my past haunts me but, I ride through it. And I am so grateful for that. Something I heard some time ago...Relationships should be easy. I did not understand what that meant until now. My life is easy...my relationship is easy. It is easy to come home. Get rid of the scripts....ride through it. You will get there. Ride through the grief and experience all the wonderful things that life has to offer you. I have faith in you!! Have faith in yourself. And keep the wind in your face!!! PS. There are a lot of states that are now adopting motorcycle awareness to the written driver tests. The AMA is supporting and pushing for this as all of us riders should as well. – Shani (note from Mama: thank you for sharing your message about choice and reading a bit deeper into Judy's letter . . . one that struck a chord in your own life. This could only have come from first hand experience and your courage to talk about it is inspiring. Yes, by and large, this site is about women and riding, but over time we've covered other issues that can cloud our lives. It's always appropriate to discuss other life aspects, as we do not operate in a "riding vacuum" so to speak.) Dear
VTwin Mama, 1.
The new 2005 Harley-Davidson Deluxe--seat height 24.5" (laden).
I am 5' 3 and 1/2 " tall and the stock bike fits me fine--no
adjustments. Dear
KM, Monday, October 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Anyway, my baby is a 95 Yami Virago 750, teal and black. She has saddlebags, windshield, custom exhaust and jet kit on the carb. She has 5200 miles on her, I'm her second owner (the first being an older man who shortly after having her got a Harley). My husband took very good care of her, maintained her and kept her clean. She is beautiful, and a perfect bike for someone new or vertically challenged (like myself). I'm looking to find her a new home because I got myself a bigger bike (Yami V Star 1100). She runs perfect, never had problem one with her, and has the nice deep rumble of a harley because of the new exhaust. So, if anyone out there is looking to find a bike that they want to take good care of, they can drop me a note at jlynn1969@hotmail.com. BTW, we are located in Michigan for those who might be interested. Thanks for the awesome website, I read it every day. Keep up the great work. – Julie Monday, October 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, After years of riding a very small Honda that couldn't keep up with the bigger bikes or sitting on the back of my husband's Goldwing having nothing but the back of a big helmet for a view; this is like a miracle. I can go anywhere without the worry of dropping the bike at a stop sign or on gravel. It's easier to drive than a 4 wheeler and a lot more faster. It has a 6 to 12 degree freedom so it is not stiff like a true trike. The price of this conversion is much much less than a typical trike conversion. I am 55 years old, 5 foot 4, and now planning all future vacations around the bikes. For those of you that are a little vertically challenged like me, you'll feel 6 feet 4 inches when blasting down the road under your own control. Gotta go ride, – Sherry Peaster in Texas Dear
KM, Monday, October 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Irene, Monday, October 4 In response to VTwin Mama's note about the novelty helmet issue: Do you think any helmet is going to protect you going over 15 mph? Think again. It would be a fluke. I believe a helmet would have to be 3' thick to work - that would be impractical. Don't tell the UN or insurance companies; that will be next. Rather than push for regulation of non-DOT helmets, I would like to stick to my original suggestion - prosecuting the cage driver. They just keep getting away with misdemeanors when they are using a weapon against us which should be a felony. THEY NEED TO GET JAIL TIME! Please do not tack on nonsense to my very serious suggestion regarding car driver accountability. Thank you. Sincerely, – Cecilia Eckerson Monday, October 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Annie, As to the riders who didn't pass you, I wouldn't read too much into the "butt slap." Your description suggests that it meant that you simply were on a smaller cc bike without the same "get up and go" . . . but as this rider has no idea of who you are or what you've accomplished so far, it was a tactless gesture. There will always be riders out there with pea-sized intellects. Please also attribute this gesture to the rider, as I feel it is important to never classify women riding pillion as something negative. To be quite honest, you'll soon run into riders who don't think women have any business riding their own bike, and as you've crossed that bridge with your husband's attitude (which you are slowly turning around), remember that the courage you showed to overcome that situation should be used in dealing with any person who has no concept how to put themselves in another's shoes. I know that I had to develop a thick skin and shrug off many hurtful moments, but soon found for every slight endured there were a hundred more positive experiences. Good luck in your upcoming move and seriously consider contacting women's riding groups in your new home area. You would do well to meet like-minded women with whom you can share the adventure of riding. – Mama Monday, October 4 For No Name who is having problems with the VStar 1100: Don't wait for it to get worse, take it in for service. I've not had this problem as of yet. Good luck. – Barbara in Queen Creek (note from Mama: some things DO require immediate qualified service.) Tuesday, October 5 Hey
VTwin Mama, I love the Aero but had a few issues on a 200 mile ride yesterday. I'm 62" 113#, 29" inseam (is that a measurement to the floor? - that's what I did). My hands kept going numb and a hot spot in my back between the shoulder blades developed -- and this was not due to cold conditions. We made stops every 50 miles or so. Is there something I should do to adjust the bike? The other issue is that my reach to the foot pegs is much longer than when I rode the Savage and my right foot went a bit numb on the longer ride. The reach to the ground and the balancing of the bike is awesome. But like the previous lady rider, I also found that the turns were wide. I thought that I could correct the reach to the pedals by getting the foot boards with the heel-toe shifting when it comes out for this model in the spring. I tried the foot boards on the Suzuki C50 during a test ride and loved them. I would've bought the C50 for the plush ride that it gave but the reach to the hand controls was just way too far and too wide. Any thoughts on the heel-toe shifting/foot boards? – RubyShadow from MA (42 years young, mother of three teenage daughters and a wind in the face kind of woman) Dear
RubyShadow, If you liked the floorboard/heel toe shifter then I'd say go for it, but please also consider that the seat on your Aero may be throwing you off on comfort. Again, sit on the bike and check on how the seat size is positioning your legs, especially the right one. Is it throwing your leg out wide? Would a narrower seat allow for better positioning? The seat could be opened up and part of the side padding shaved out or take a look at a new seat . . . the Corbin line offers a number of solutions recommended by readers of this site, especially the Corbin Gunfighter model. Good luck on checking into these modifications as I think small changes could make a big difference! – Mama Tuesday, October 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, I was determined, so it's probably not the case that I wouldn't be riding if it weren't for the Blast, but it was practicing on the Blast that restored my confidence, honed my skills, and banished the fear of falling. I prefer the Triumph or the Suzuki for a pleasure ride, and the Triumph is the most comfortable, especially post-op. Feels great to be able to ride again. The weather now, a week after the last storm, is perfectly beautiful for riding. Thanks for the great site. Regards, – Sarah Dear
Sarah, Tuesday, October 5 For Shorty who at 5'1" is looking for bike suggestions as a new rider: My girlfriend just purchased a Honda Rebel 250cc. It fits the criteria for a new and short rider. The resale value is superb. – Cecilia (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Tuesday, October 5 For Shani about the use of novelty helmets: Your "higher power" gave your son a brain to think with and reach conclusions with. So I guess your God just rubs his chin thoughtfully when he sees people wearing novelty helmets and ponders on their enthusiasm to meet him a lot quicker than some other folks. We have an expression here [Australia], it seems to fit well: If you've got a 10 dollar head...wear a 10 dollar helmet. And as Petra will point out to everyone...when I was your son's age I wore no helmet at all...but thankfully the Australian Government decided eventually that if you can't wear a helmet then you can't ride a motorcycle here at all. That's the only reason that I and most of my mates are still here today. As I got older, I got smarter, you've only got one life...look after it! – Kevin (note from Mama: I will simply add that I cringe over some of my decisions from past years that heightened my chances for things to go wrong and am thankful I survived them. Age and experience will always change our perspective on issues, especially one as explosive as the wearing of helmets.) Wednesday,
October 6 "It is our intention to form a Not for Profit Corporation in order to bring our cause to the attention of the Law Makers. A Committee is now being formed to do so. Please feel free to join in. This site is growing and changing daily so check back often." Angie Arcand, Founder Thursday, October 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, I had a really spectacular time, on the road, with friends and family, and seeing the sights in our beautiful country. I was exceedingly lucky regarding the weather and I only got sprinkled on three times. The Stone is a great bike - on a trip like this (as I know you know), your bike becomes your companion in some regards, but in other ways, it's like a pair of good hiking boots - an invaluable piece of "gear" that gives you special traveling abilities. Anyways, I've got to get caught up on everything now - e-mail, bills, my webpage, and reading the VTwin Mama and www.Wildguzzi.com sites! – Marina in El Cerrito, CA Dear
Marina, Thursday, October 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Rickie, To me this suggests that you'll need to explore your options by visiting the service department of your local dealer or an independent bike shop. Sorry I couldn't be of more help, but we'll see if any other ideas come in from riders. – Mama Thursday, October 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Dawn, Thursday, October 7 More for Shani and her son's use of a novelty helmet: Well I'm glad you feel that your son is a great rider. But no one will ever be a perfect rider. Accidents happen to anyone. Seriously, someone should show that kid what wearing a novelty helmet will do to a person. My dad dropped his bike, I had to go pick up the bike. Had my father been wearing one of those novelty helmets he would of been in a world of hurt more so then he was with a broken collarbone. I get so sick and tired of hearing young kids saying stuff isn't "cool" to wear. How cool are they going to look when they wind up dead ??? Kids now a days need to have common sense beaten into their heads. So I really do hope your son never falls but maybe will have a little more sense in what he puts his head into to protect it. Like you said, it's his choice, but he also needs to realize his choices affect him and his family. – Worried in GA (note from Mama: yes, choice can affect more than the immediate person, but how do we influence another to see the consequences of choice? Unfortunately, first hand experience witnessing a horrific outcome is the fastest teacher. For many, age and experience allow us to know and understand the lesson without having to experience a personal crisis because we learn over time that we are less invincible than originally imagined. Then there are the states that demand helmet laws because they perceive that they know best. And so round and round we go with both "camps" convinced they are in the right and not able to reach common ground on the issue. Constructive thoughts and ideas on how to educate a rider on the dangers of novelty helmets and no helmet riding would be welcome at this juncture.) Thursday, October 7 Yo, Mama, Custom Chrome® Ergonomic Lever Blades I've also got: $75 shipped for the both of them. PayPal OK. – Dave at typeii.fal@verizon.net Dear
Dave, ***Update: Didn't get any nibbles on the Ergo Levers and Easy Pull Clutch from the ladies, so they're on eBay now at a $40 starting bid. Thursday, October 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Karen, Scoot Works, which offers a number of solutions for Hondas didn't have this model listed, but it might be worth contacting them to see if they know of what might be done. A previous posting from March 2003 suggests that Cobra might have come up with a product, but their site isn't showing products yet online, so you'll need to call your local dealer's parts department and have them look through their catalog copy. – Mama Friday, October 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, I rode the bike and the 2nd time I did I ran into a mailbox (how embarrassing), gratefully and thankfully I did not get hurt. I do know what I did wrong and it was stupid but I am so freaked out now. I have gotten on it since but am so nervous. I love this bike but I wonder if I will ever be able to handle it. Riders Edge had Buells and they were so different -- I had no problem with those. I am 5'2 124 lbs. Could you give me some advice and support of any kind? What an awesome gift and it is what I wanted now.... ??????????????? It just seems so huge now! – Roxanne Dear
Roxanne, Yes, the bike you used in your class is very different and you were also in a protected "zone" where distractions and things in your pathway (except for cones) weren't a factor. So, recreate that safe environment to learn how to handle your new beastie (what a great gift by the way!). Scope out an empty parking lot in your neighborhood with plenty of clearance. Then, have your hubby dearest ride the bike over so that you can begin practicing exactly how you learned to ride the Buell. Starts and stops in a straight line, moving into higher gears, etc. Next, add temporary markers (cones, tennis balls cut in half, or tape) to mimic traffic intersections, driveways, whatever you feel you want to practice. Once you've got some practice time in, then head onto roads again, but during the lightest day/time you can muster. Plan out a route in advance and travel it by car so that you "think" in terms of riding the bike. Next, hop onto the bike, but have your husband follow in the car or on bike with you in the lead. Does this plan make sense? If you pre-discuss these steps with your husband, I think you'll find that it will have a calming effect. Remember, don't do too much in one day and if you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, stop and say so. There are many days ahead for you, so take your time! Soon, your beastie and you will be one with each other . . . and we'll be getting messages of joy from you . . . we look forward to that! – Mama Friday, October 8 For Marina and her wonderful pictorial travelogue: I wanted to say that Marina's photojournal was excellent. It makes me wish it wasn't getting cold outside. I loved the giant insects! – Terri in Baltimore (note from Mama: it is fun seeing one of our sister's journeys and I'm also glad that Marina put it together. Marina sent me an email thanking me for sharing the address on my site. Here's the link again for those who are curious!) Friday, October 8 Hi
VTwin Mama, Anyway, I have been investigating aftermarket windshields for my bike. I live in Los Angeles county and I'm trying to get more comfortable with freeway riding since it is a way of life here and sometimes you have to ride them to get to where you really want to ride. I have done the freeway just a few times with my little deflector shield and I still don't like it much. I feel like my head is going to be blown right off my body! I am interested in the Switchblade shields from National Cycle because I like the idea of being able to change them out or remove them completely depending on your riding needs. I was wondering what your opinion is on this type of shield or if any of your readers have purchased the Switchblade shields for their bikes? Are there any safety issues that I should be concerned about? I would really appreciate anyone's help on this. I'm a solo rider, having lost my husband 3 1/2 years ago, so I grab just about anybody to try to get information and learn this kind of stuff so any information is good to me right now. – Gloria in California Dear
Gloria, I hopped on National Cycle's site to see that the concept of their Switchblade model is to install a single mounting kit that multiple shields can mate too without further requirement of tools. Unfortunately, the photo wasn't available, so my question to the company would be, exactly how is the shield secured to the mount? I would want a full description of the fastening system to convince myself that safety and security are met. Any readers with first-hand knowledge on this type of system are asked to chime in now! I was sorry to hear about your husband (our deepest condolences) . . . perhaps you would like to meet like-minded women who ride in your area . . . as a new support group . . . gals to learn and chat with and share in the experience. Hop over to my Cool Links page and you'll find links to the many women's riding organizations available. Just something to keep in mind! – Mama Friday,
October 8 I have chosen not to edit any responses for content or language. The VTwin Mama site has always attempted to post everyone's thoughts as presented, and on occasion, explosive issues generate more direct responses. You will also note that I will not be adding my own usual commentary as I feel the messages speak for themselves. If you have not been following the recent thread, start on the Riding Gear: Helmets page with Judy's letter about novelty helmets and the loss of an important person in her life. Then you'll see the subsequent posts, including those that follow here. Without further ado . . . For Cecilia who questioned the ability of any helmet to protect a rider over 15mph: Your statement regarding helmets being useless above 15mph is so far off the mark I really don't know how you reached that conclusion lady? Sure people have died going slow whilst wearing a helmet...but it's rare. Now don't get all excited mate...have a good long think for a minute. GP Racers and guys and gals who do track days are coming off their bikes at close to or in some cases above, 300 kph...and getting up and walking away with no serious injuries to their heads...you wonder why that is? You think they would have been ok with no helmet on? Give me a break. I used to race motorcycles in the Rallye class...I have come off at over 120kph several times...on dirt roads covered in jagged rocks...the helmet looks like an alien monster has clawed it to pieces...but my head's ok inside it. I have come off my road bike at high speed, slammed into the ground with my helmet and got up and walked away, head unhurt. Every day, all around the world, hundreds of motorcyclists...whether they are riding to work, or racing on a track are being saved by their helmets...and that's a FACT!!! You may not like helmets, you may not want to wear a helmet...but don't delude yourself that they are not saving lives even as I type this. I am against mandatory helmet usage myself...that's not the issue here. The issue here as you stated, is that helmets wont save you above 15mph...and that's just bullshit mate. Thousands, yes thousands, of riders across the planet are living proof that I am right and you are wrong. I am not saying a helmet will always save you (at any speed)...but it sure helps! An old Aussie test for unbelievers...I have seen it done. Get a water melon, hold it in both hands...smash it into a wall three or fours times. Put water melon on ground, hit it hard a couple of times with a piece of 2x4. See what water melon looks like. Get another water melon, put it securely inside a full face helmet. Smash helmet into a wall three or four times. Place helmet on ground, hit it hard a couple of times with a piece of 2x4. Remove secured water melon from inside helmet, see what it looks like. Put the two water melons together and inspect both closely. Think of a human head whilst doing all of the above. Throw the helmet into the nearest dumpster, it's now useless, but it has done it's job. Sorry you had to ruin a perfectly good helmet for the above test to work. Here endeth the lesson. – Kevin I
really must respond to the
incredibly ignorant posts made by Cecelia E., regarding Novelty (and
other) Helmets. It’s
bad enough that she was rudely dismissive and downright insulting to you
in regard to your insightful comment to her initial post.
I’m surprised she didn’t trot out that ridiculous myth about
full-face helmets causing people to break their necks.
I’ve actually seen rants comparing wearing FF helmets to having a
200-lb. weight attached to their heads.
Strangely enough, they don’t concurrently post anything about
majoring is physics in college! Quite
the contrary: many of these
helmet “authorities” seem to have writing ability just a bit beyond
3rd grade level. To
blindly state a helmet is no good above 15mph…OMG, that’s beyond
ridiculous. Perhaps she’s not aware that hundreds
of racers and track day participants across the country crash
violently at speeds between 70 and 150mph every year, not to mention
street and trail riders. Frequently,
they walk uninjured, or with only minor bruising, and often no head injury
whatsoever. Yes, a few die.
Not even the best helmets can protect against all impacts, that’s
a given. But these racers
don’t come even remotely close to dying with the frequency of street
riders wearing less than adequate protection, like Al did. The
comment about a helmet having to be 3” thick……if it wasn’t such a
serious issue, I would still be laughing.
My Snell-approved helmet’s hard shell (exclusive of inner foam)
is somewhere around ¾” thick. This
is the same type of helmets the aforementioned road racers use in saving
their lives on a regular basis. When
I was 16, I crashed my dirt bike on a logging road at about 40 mph and my
helmet impacted a jagged boulder. There
was a ½” deep dent in my helmet. I
had a minor concussion and some cuts and bruises, and was fine the next
day. Perhaps if people such as herself that are so totally focused on repealing mandatory helmet laws put even a tiny bit of their energies into assisting with the AMA’s “Justice for All” campaign, there would be no reason for her rant about making Cage Drivers taking responsibility for their actions. For those not aware of this, the campaign’s goals are to change the laws to insure people don’t get away with what amounts to at least manslaughter, as is so common now. – Judy Hawkins
For Cecilia on the point of prosecuting cage drivers for their crimes:
I've
spent some time thinking about the post that Cecilia left in regards to
helmets as well as the prosecution of "cage drivers" that harm
bikers. First of all, let me say that I agree that punishment should
fit the crime. We hear way too often of drivers getting by with a
slap on the hand for causing a biker to be harmed in any way. I have yet
to understand how some sentences are determined. I also agree
that more should be done to make everyone aware that people on motorcycles
(and bicycles and walkers, etc) are sharing the roadways.
From Shani whose son wears a novelty helmet to Australia and Georgia:
While I respect your opinions on my "stupid" son; I have to reiterate here. I do not condone novelty helmets or the wearing of no helmet, as I have indicated. I always wear a helmet and a DOT helmet to boot. But, I also recognize my inability to control someone else or their behavior. At my son's age of 21, he is a young adult and capable of his own decisions. I have to respect that and that same right of other people. I cannot push my opinions on him or anyone else. All I can ask for is that the value system in which I raised him will eventually be the predominant factor.
This issue is about choices and education. What needs to happen is that we, as responsible riders, require an awareness not only in the motorcycle safety classes and test but, the driver test and education as well. We need to push the states for driver awareness of us riders. "I did not see you" is not an excuse. Many states in New England are pushing for driver awareness. Motorcycle awareness should also be required on all written driver tests.
In the Northeast there are currently bills to require all Motorcycle riders to take a safety class. These are all good propositions and address issues as riders that need to be supported. Education is the way to go.....not criticism!
Let's work on supporting these venues and educating the motor vehicle operators as well as the motorcycle riders. Voice your opinions with the DMW and the AMA. This is where we can be heard! Ride safely and keep the wind in your face! – Shani
In response to my call for constructive thoughts on educating riders on the perils of helmet choice: You requested constructive comments regarding rider safety education, and I just so happen to have Nick Ienatsch's "Sport Riding Techniques - How to develop real world skills for speed, safety, and confidence on the street and track" here on the table next to me. Riders in motorcycle racing must be amongst the most serious riders in the world. And they ALWAYS wear helmets. In addition to that, they have someone who cleans their visor before EVERY race! And racing on the track presents way fewer obstacles to safe riding (clean track surface, everyone is going the same way, everyone is on a motorcycle, everyone is a professional, paying attention, and not a goof-off) than what we experience just going for a grocery run on the streets. Maybe one way to encourage riders to practice better safety habits in general is to share cool safe riding technique books with them. Even though Ienatsch's book is called "Sport Riding Techniques," most of its lessons are applicable to any sort of riding. Of course, there are other great books out there too (like the Proficient Motorcycling books), but this one is really different in a lot of regards. I can't help but think that being written by a motorcycle racer might make it more palatable to a certain variety of person. Anyways, it's my current favorite safe riding book, so I thought I'd share. – Marina In response to the thoughtful responses to the question of helmet use: I must say, I learned much from today's riders. My husband used to race in the desert in the fifties and ALWAYS wore a helmet. While riding down the 405 in LA, the same. He was knocked over twice, once on purpose and once by a truck driver (newly licensed vehicle) and broke his ulna getting out of the wheel well. Thank God for people yelling at the fool to stop - the outcome could have been worse. He has also been rear-ended twice. When out in the middle of no where, a cattle truck driver rear-ended him on an off-ramp in 1996, I made him take my car to work. It took a year for him to recoup from those injuries. He was traveling less than 15 mph, breaks of 7 ribs, scapula, collar bone and a thoracotomy (punctured lung). His helmet was scraped over his left temple, and I was really glad he was wearing a helmet! When I was newly involved in ABATE of CA in 1992, I conducted a taped interview of Dr. Krauss at UCLA regarding his study of helmet use. Later, because the leaders of ABATE of CA were too worried about politics rather than truth, I searched on for some. Dr. Goldstein did a study and showed that the studies (funded by the insurance companies; hmmm) were data-biased and that it is a toss up between head injury in not using a helmet and getting your neck broken by a full-faced helmet. This is also where I picked up the 15 mph notion. I just cannot see how a helmet is going to do much good at speed. My husband says that soon the EPA and insurance companies and UN will have us dressed like the Michelin man so that we just bounce back off the road. It's much easier to "dress" us than educate car drivers that we are coming faster than they realize because we are smaller. (80 percent of accidents with a car involve the car driver making that left turn in front of us.) Is that an accident or lack of skill on the car driver? Had he been educated he might have thought twice before turning in front of the biker. I wear a helmet, but have no false sense of security that it will protect me. We take them off while riding through "helmet free" states. ABATE has always promoted rider safety and education. I took a beginning rider class and will probably take an advanced even though I've been riding for 12 years. I remember in my beginning class the instructors told us, "you are always practicing out there; you never arrive!" I think about that when I ride. So ride safe and I hope we all have the opportunity to ride for years to come. This may touch another nerve or two, but I think earplugs lessen one of our most needed senses. I need all of my senses to survive. Sincerely, – Cecilia Eckerson (note from Mama: you have shared important background information which helps us see your viewpoint more clearly. You also reiterate a strong message about the education of cage drivers and the need for more people to actively lobby for this . . . it's a crucial point on which you are passionate. It's clear through the number of letters that have been recently posted that helmets can make a difference, but false security is a dangerous thing as you noted. You sparked an interesting discussion and by no means will the issue of helmets ever end. That's ok, the point is to keep talking about it . . . it's what helps all of us become more informed riders. It's possible we'll hear more viewpoints on the use of earplugs as well!) Monday, October 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
M., Monday, October 11 For Shani who shared thoughts on losing an ex to Judy: I
would like to thank Shani who offered her insight into the emotional
ramifications of how the breakup of my relationship paralleled hers to
some degree. I have done a lot of
thinking about all of that and what she said makes a lot of sense.
I am doing better now, and have even gone on a couple of rides now
since his death. They were
enjoyable rides. I just wish summer
wasn’t over. I guess it’s time
to retire into the garage and start wrenching on my Vintage bikes in
earnest! Monday, October 11 More for Judy who has a strong message about novelty helmets after losing a loved one: G'day Judy. I was saddened when I read your post about Al mate...my condolences. We both posted almost identical articles at the same time in regards to Cecilia and her 15mph comments. You're like me...a professional rider, someone who weighs up the risks involved and takes the appropriate safety precautions. You know the old adage...you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink...that's how it will always be with riders and safety equipment. I am hoping that our letters have at least made some people re-think their options in regards to helmet safety. That's really all we can do matey. Ride safe Judy. All the best, – Kevin (note from Mama: I'm sure the entire series caught a lot of peoples attention and that's good. There's more to come.) Monday, October 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, She is right that no one wakes up one morning and decides that today is the day they take out a rider. I had someone turn into me and they where at fault but I did not wish them put in jail. Riding a motorcycle is my choice and the dangers well known to me, so had I chose to drive my car that day instead I would have filled out the police report and walked away. Instead, I had to spend the next few weeks in the hospital. No one should be unduly punished for my actions and I still ride now so they didn't take away my passion; we just had an accident. Then with the helmet, I agree, you should really think before you wish for something because it may sound like a great idea but from past experience with laws, I would wonder just where will it all lead? Again, your site is perfect and I will continue to read daily. – Jamie Dear
Jamie, Monday, October 11 For Roxanne who met a mailbox her bike didn't like and she has some jitters: Brings back memories of my beautiful Dyna Low Rider after dropping her the parking lot of a busy hot dog restaurant! Roxanne, this happens! At least you didn't drop it! I was freaked out too and was so nervous riding. I basically scared myself out of riding that bike again. I traded that awesome bike in for a smaller HD (Sportster) then ended up with a bigger bike again (Yamaha V-Star 1100). I really regret not keeping the Dyna and just "getting over it!" Because I did. It's hot here and I don't ride much in the summer so take a 4-5 month break. Looking at the bigger bike freaks me out all over again. What I've done this year is just never mind the size. I started to physic myself up again to ride. Focus on the front end of the bike with what you can see looking forward. If I looked at the back seat and back fender, it would intimidate me. Don't let that happen! Baby steps. Sitting on the bike for a few minutes. Next time starting it up. Then stand it up and start it. Play with the shifter and remember what it feels like. Sounds lame, huh? But, you know what? It really helped. I then just started to ride short rides around the neighborhood, then out on the street as a beginner. Last Saturday we rode 3 hours and I had a ball! Will probably have to do this all over again next fall after a break due to the heat. Like Mama said, pace yourself! Never mind what the guys say or think. I ignore them anyway! Just have fun for you! – Barbara in Queen Creek, AZ (note from Mama: keeping it real for ourselves is a powerful message . . . and thanks for sharing some steps you took to work through the jitters!) Tuesday, October 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Penny, Tuesday, October 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, Since I had never ridden a bike before, but I own a Kawi, I was nervous. His constant yelling at me that I was going to crash if I kept riding like I was just made me more nervous. In fact it made me dump the bike. After two hours of trying to ride he suggested that this class wasn't for me and I should leave, which I did. He kept asking me my age (I'm 54). What does that have to do with a desire to learn to ride? I doubt I'll ever sign up for another MOST class, I'll just look elsewhere for instruction. I was glad to see that like Judy and other writers that I wasn't alone in being booted from a class. Enjoy your website! – Booted in Colorado Dear
Booted, Age, as you are also well aware, has nothing to do with anything! We have had many letters at this site from women up into their 70s who have learned to ride. So, now, what is your plan of attack to continue your journey? May I suggest that you contact a local chapter of one of the many women's riding organizations available?! You would be able to speak to veteran women riders who could point you the right direction for new instruction, etc. and enable you to form a support group . . . something some new riders appreciate. It's a thought! – Mama Tuesday, October 12 Hi
Petra, To this day I thank Mother Nature, the Goddess, the Gods, the powers that be - whatever - for the wet forecast because 2 hours into our trip we met disaster. A car pulled out in front of us (we were on separate bikes with him in the lead) and my husband, Gary, broadsided the car at about 60mph. Sure, the helmet did nothing to prevent the numerous insults done to his body, but it preserved his brain. This I know just from looking at the helmet itself. It was only a half helmet, but it served its purpose well. The visor was ripped off and all the damage was done to the front - just where the frontal lobe is in the brain. If not for Mother Nature my husband could have possibly died from brain trauma; more likely he would have just survived as a vegetable. I may not be a very religious person, but I am superstitious - call me crazy, now I wear a full face helmet EVERY time I get on my bike. I long to ride without it if only for a day - but I won't. I like what Kevin said about buying a $10 helmet for a $10 head. I have way too much to live for and I spent way too much money in school to scramble my brains and loose the job and life I love so much. This is my decision for me - I choose to wear a helmet and as much as I'd like to see others do the same . . . well that's their decision and really none of my business. Well, actually it does become my "business" later when I arrive with my ambulance and . . . my partner (at work) likes to say that it "thins out the herd." Don't get too angry at that - he's only partially kidding. Driver Education is an awesome idea, but I'm not going to hold my breath. As long as it's still legal to talk on your cell phone, apply makeup, shave, read the newspaper, etc. in the car we will always have problems with inattentive drivers. Cops do what they can and can ticket a person for inattentive driving. The only problem is that they aren't everywhere and can't see everything on the road at once AND they're always labeled the bad guys for trying to keep us ALL safe. (Remember that the next time you get pulled over for speeding, or failing to yield, or failing to stop at a stop sign, or failing to signal a turn . . .) I may be jaded, but I think we live in a society where no one wants to take responsibility for their actions. If you don't believe me look at how profitable lawyers are. Don't get me wrong, everyone deserves representation, but when someone is clearly in the wrong why don't they just own up to the mistake and apologize? Sure it doesn't make it all go away - but it does lend peace of mind. We recently settled our case (2 years after the crash). I didn't care about the money - I would gladly give it all back and remain in debt living from paycheck to paycheck if only Gary could go back to the way he was before the crash. But we can't and the settlement will come in handy when he has to retire from his job early (he's a cop) because the consequences of his injuries inhibit his ability to do his job. It's a small department - no desk jockeys there. The best part of the whole day's proceedings at the settlement was at the very beginning. The guy who caused the crash was there and expressed his regrets (his lawyer wouldn't let him say the word "sorry"). It made a big difference. Now Gary has been able to let go of some of his anger (he no longer wants to break the guy's legs so he can see what it feels like to go through 18 months of PT). Just taking responsibility for almost killing my husband helped me too. I was so P.O.'d when I found out the guy only got a $150 ticket for failure to signal turn - THAT'S IT! Anyway, I could ramble all morning (I've had enough coffee!) but I won't. Be good, be safe! – Jennifer Dear
Jennifer, I'm glad to hear that Gary's day in court was satisfactory (to the extent that it could be) and you've shared a viewpoint from first-hand experience that rings with clarity and truth. I'll point out again a posting on the formation of B.A.D.D. (Bikers Against Dangerous Drivers) and also urge those interested in getting involved to check out the ABATE organization. – Mama Tuesday, October 12 More for Judy who has a strong message about novelty helmets after losing a loved one: First, my sincere condolences to Judy. Al sounds like a person who has had and will have a lifelong impact on those who knew him. Second, I had to do a double-take when I first read it; her ex-husband and I were born on the same exact day (Dec. 6, 1961), so that was a little unnerving. Third, I think I understand the issue from both sides. I understand the opinion that wearing a helmet could be considered a personal decision--that is, one can make an informed decision whether to do so. However, driving a car and riding a bike are privileges currently controlled by the government. That's a fact. Thus, short of changing those overarching laws, the government has the right to dictate to those using such vehicles how they conduct themselves. Further, one could argue that the government has the right or even a duty to try to keep healthcare costs and insurance costs down. I believe wearing helmets--even on a bicycle--do that more often than not. I've personally had at least two experiences in which I would have been seriously injured were I not wearing a helmet. I walked away from one; was ambulanced away from another with minor injuries). Yes, they were low-speed incidences. But if those could have left me seriously hurt, I'd hate to think about what traffic-speed accidents could have done to me without a helmet. All this said, I don't judge people who ride without helmets. A few of the folks in my regular riding group ride without them while some wear novelty helmets and others, like me, swear by their full-face helmets. I respect that in PA, with our no-helmet law, it is a rider's right to choose. As long as people ride with respect for others and defensively (not showboating), I'm happy to ride with them. But I'll keep wearing mine. We all take an informed risk by riding; I just want to decrease the risk of injury for myself, to whatever extent I can. Enjoy the ride, – Bryna (note from Mama: I agree that many of us can see both sides of the issue but ultimately we have to choose for ourselves how we wish to proceed if the state we are riding in gives us that choice. And we also choose to what degree of advocacy we want to participate in depending on our individual viewpoint. All I seem to be able to add at this point is that for many, many years I rode without a helmet and supported efforts to keep it that way, but since moving to a mandatory helmet state have only ridden once without one . . . yes, in a legal state! Talk about feeling like we're on a fencepost!) Wednesday, October 13 Dear
VTwin Mama! Dear
L., The problem with using the brake is that the back one can quickly lock up the rear end of the bike and put you into a skid and too much front could pitch you over the front! But we're not talking about using these controls coming from a high speed situation; rather the use in a controlled, extremely low speed moment. So I see no reason that you couldn't begin experimenting. Choose an open, obstacle-free area to do some practice. Easy does it of course. You might want to pose this question to a Hondamatic discussion forum; I found this one on a Yahoo Group. – Mama Wednesday, October 13 For Booted who had an icky instructor and didn't get to complete the riding course: Sounds like
you had the instructor from h*ll... What a jerk!
I have read many postings here and elsewhere by MSF instructors who say
this kind of behavior is completely unacceptable and should be reported to
this weenie's boss. Don't give
up! I'm starting at age 51 and
also had a difficult MSF experience with instructors who were "less than
encouraging." I totally
messed up the test and didn't pass. I
walked out of there questioning myself, completely discouraged, should I
really be doing this, etc. That
was in May. I'm not a giving up
kind of gal, so I got my learner's permit and headed for the parking lot.
Spent a LOT of time in that parking lot.
Now I'm out on the road, usually on weekend mornings early, when
there's not a lot of traffic. And
still off and on in my beloved parking lot. The more I
ride the better it feels. I'm
proud of myself, and proud of you too!
How many other women our age do you know who are embarking on such an
adventure? You go, girl... we're
all with you. And most
importantly, relax and have fun! Wednesday, October 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, On Friday October 8, 2004 an unidentified motorcyclist suffered severe injuries due to his jacket coming loose, which was stowed behind him, and jamming his back wheel of his bike causing him to skid out of control and tumble down the highway. He was not wearing a helmet. I am not sure if he is still with us but will keep him in my thoughts regardless. I just wanted to bring to light some of the crazy things that happen in life. I understand why he would stow his jacket because we are at the time of year when I leave in the morning it is 47 degrees and when I am driving home in the afternoon it can be as high as 75 degrees. Share this if you like. Thank you again and "Stay Safe" – NrthCst Dear
NrthCst, Wednesday, October 13 Hi
again Mama! But I had to just offer some input about ear plugs (Cecelia brought this issue up). I have an uncle (age 61 next month) who rode motorcycles from about 21 years old until he was in his early 50s and couldn't ride anymore due to health problems. When I say he rode a motorcycle, I mean that it was his ONLY form of transportation, he bought his first 4-wheeled vehicle in over 30 years just a few years ago. His only regret in riding is that he did not protect his hearing. He is now completely deaf in one ear and has acute hearing loss in the other. He has constantly encouraged me to use my ear plugs when riding, and for the most part I do. Not only do they protect my hearing, but they also help prevent mental fatigue on very long rides (cut down on the constant wind howl that can just wear you out mentally). I do not feel that wearing ear plugs lessen my abilities to ride safely, I have many other senses that HAVE to take over regardless of ear plugs or not due to so many noises bombarding that one sensory organ (the ear). On a recent 4000 mile trip I was extremely thankful for those earplugs and in fact, would pull over to put them back in if I forgot to at a fuel stop. But like the helmet issue, this is a personal decision. But knowing someone who has lost a great deal of his hearing, to the point of reading lips (we must look at him when speaking to him), and feels that the noise from riding had an impact, it confirms my decision to wear them. Ride safe, – Tracy Dear
Tracy, Wednesday, October 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, I also wanted to let you know that I have been able to make some connections in my area with other women who ride and are willing to ride with a newbie! It has been good for me because it forces me to move outside of my comfort zone, and leave my house! My riding has become the catalyst that helped to get me out of my house and DO SOMETHING after my husband passed away. I was becoming a recluse and it was not healthy! I often tell people that "I lost my husband..... lost my mind..... and then bought a motorcycle!" Actually, I took the safety course fist. So far.... so good! I will be checking your site for feedback and because it's just a GREAT SITE! Thanks Again! – Gloria Dear
Gloria, Thursday, October 14 More for Booted who had an instructor from H E double toothpicks: I also had a instructor from H***. I took my Safety Course at a military base here in Nova Scotia and one of the instructors was a female Army officer. (I am not military and I am 52 years old). I also had never rode a bike before but this one took an instant dislike for me and screamed at me every time I went to do whatever part of the course she happened to be at the time. This too made me so nervous that I would mess up even more. Thank God the other two instructors who happened to be male took me aside to say that when I was on my own practicing, I was doing everything perfect, and to try and settle down. I was determined that this B * T * H was not going to drive me to quit and went back the next day and by the skin of my teeth I passed the course. That was the end of August and I get out as much as I can and love every minute of it. So keep on plugging because you will make it. – Suzette (note from Mama: now that's the spirit . . . and thank goodness you had the support necessary to keep your eye on the prize! I am soooo proud of you and glad to hear that you're enjoying your adventure in riding. Booted can only gather strength and courage from this message of support!) Thursday, October 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, I had just started to become adjusted to my bike and the practice that is necessary to become a better rider when I tore the ligaments in my knee, not motorcycle related. I haven't been able to ride at all for 3 weeks. I live in Wisconsin and the weather is starting to get cold. I don't know how much more I will be able to ride this year. I am wondering if I am going to totally forget everything that I had just started to learn by the time Spring comes. I am afraid that I will have lost the little confidence I had gained by practice and my course. Thanks again for a great site. – Barb Dear
Barb, Thursday, October 14 To Tracy who shared her astute observations about wearing earplugs while riding: Uh-oh... I have to chime in on another issue. I wanted to second Tracy's comments that wearing earplugs prevents hearing loss associated with riding (if you believe you need "all your senses" for riding, then you'd better keep yourself from going deaf!). The fatigue-prevention factor is also really important. It must be more valuable to have a fresh brain than unplugged ears! I wore earplugs on my recent trip and found myself to be surprisingly fresh, even after a 500 mile type of day; previous to my discovery of earplugs, I'd be pretty dazed after a day like this. The main thing I really wanted to say is that it is important to shop around! Buy a bunch of different types of earplugs and try them out until you find something that is comfortable and still allows you to hear the sounds around you. A good, properly fit pair of earplugs won't drown out all the sound - you can still hear the engine (though less sharply) of your bike and cars approaching from behind. The first pair I tried was awful - they resulted in dead silence! Now, I have three of four pairs that I like. I think the word you want to look is "attenuated" when seeking earplugs that will still let you hear the world around you. Anyways, there's a lot of variety out there, so if you're serious about being able to hear, there is a plug for you! – Marina (note from Mama: uh-oh . . . I think I'm on the verge of learning something! Thank you for noting that, like eating liver, if the first try isn't to your satisfaction, then don't give up on the concept! From your description, the wearing of earplugs can be entirely beneficial without "giving up" an important sense. I know I noted that my visual clues were most important, but hearing is also one and you have taken the myth that "plugging up" doesn't mean not hearing. Thanks for sharing!) Thursday, October 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lee, Thursday, October 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have a Suzuki Marauder 800 and I start the MSF class TOMORROW!! I am so excited! I have been scouting out scenic routes to drive in my home state of Maryland. I never realized how beautiful it is on the back roads here. Also, I have been reading through the archives and found something I can offer a tip on. A while back someone was looking for some kind of inexpensive cover and what was recommended was barely a glorified garbage bag. My brother-in-law spent over $100 on a really nice cover but gave it away because he found one that was superior to it at Wal-Mart for $20. I bought one for myself and it really is nice. It is made of the same nylon fabric that good quality tents are made of and has elastic and clips. It is two-tone silver and blue. One last thing, I want to thank Marina for sharing her trip. She is very inspiring to me. She lived my dream and took almost the same route that I hope to take some day. Thank you Marina!! And thank you Petra for doing such a wonderful job. P.S. Kevin in Australia . . . I really enjoy (though sometimes respectfully disagree) with your delightfully outspoken opinions. – Debbie in Baltimore Dear
Debbie, And thanks for the input on the Wally World solution for a cover. Who knew?! Well, you did! And you shared! Thanks. – Mama Thursday, October 14 To L. Coler who is wondering how to handle tight U turns on an auto tranny bike: Petra is correct that using brakes while turning is taught in the Experienced Riders Course. However, I wanted to point out that at slow speeds, (slow speeds would be defined as ‘moving slow enough that you are required to turn the handlebars to change direction vs. using Counter steering’) it is the REAR brake alone that is used. You don’t want to apply ANY front brake while the handlebars are turned. (I call it ‘rowing on the bars). Using the front brake with the bars turned is asking for a capsize. Appling rear brake alone to control your speed helps load the suspension and creates stability at low speeds. If it were me? I would begin practicing by applying or “dragging” the rear brake while in a straight line. Control the throttle and rear brake together, working the two forces against each other until I had a feel of how the bike responds while straight up and down (which is the safest) Then add the turn, remembering to both turn my head, looking well behind me (not EVER down) and using counter weighting during the turn. BTW? This is also the same technique used with manual transmissions as well. Practice, as always is key. Even if you’re an experienced rider these skills won’t stay sharp if you don’t take them out and use/practice them once in a while. – HammerLady (note from Mama: uh-oh, it's back to riding school for me! Thanks HammerLady, because as an instructor yourself, you provide knowledgeable, useful information to this site and for those who don't know, she oversees a wonderful discussion forum at http://www.shinnysideup.com.) I also want to point out that HammerLady is a VTwin Mama Mentor for beginner riders and on the subject of riding techniques, so feel free to contact her for one-on -one assistance. As you can tell from this response, she is a veritable fountain of know-how that really makes a difference!) Friday, October 15 For Marina and her view on the use of ear plugs while riding: Boy, do I agree with Marina and her response to ear plugs. I love her comment that if you think you need your hearing to ride, you should protect it. Nicely said. I don't normally remember to wear ear plugs, but I did this past weekend. My sis and I took a ride on Saturday. Normally, I lead when there is a group, but since it was just the two of us, I asked her to lead. With her in the lead, I didn't have to wonder if she was keeping up or having any problems. Well, she is real proud of the nice after-market pipes she just bought. Between the cold, the wind and the pipes, let me tell ya, I've had more comfortable rides! On Sunday, we were all heading out for a Harley group ride (no noise there!), so I decided I wouldn't put myself in the same position again. I wore the ear plugs and stayed comfortable all day. They didn't shut out all noise by any stretch of the imagination, and the noise I did hear was more heightened because it was coming in clearer. The only problem I had was communication, I had to get my husband to speak up when we were stopped at signs or lights. Give them a shot -- what have you got to lose? – Michele (note from Mama: well, some might argue that what you have to lose is an important sense that clues us in to our surroundings. Still, there have been enough postings arguing that this isn't the case if the ear plugs are chosen correctly. So, I would advise riders to use caution trying something like this out for the first time, but give it a test run if noise has been a problem.) Friday, October 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Bonnie, Next, visit my Motorcycles for Short Riders page. This is a table by manufacturer that lists bikes by rider model and rider height, with any added notes on how they made a bike fit their frame (lowering kits, reshaped seats, etc.). Very useful, and women are listed from 4'9" to 5'5", so there's bound to be some food for thought there for you! – Mama Friday,
October 15 ABATE of Illinois’ very own Michael ‘Boz’ Kerr will appear on Fox News’ Sunday morning talk show, Chicago Perspective with Walter Jacobson. Scheduled to show at 8:00 a.m. Boz will be second in the line of guests where he will debate the proposed city ordinance for mandatory motorcycle helmets with State Representative Monique Davis. We invite everyone to tune in!! Dear
VTwin Mama, I bought a Buell Blast in Feb. to return to riding after a 25 year break. I rode that bike about 1300 miles including trailering to Sturgis and riding out there. I then realized I needed a bigger bike for the kind of riding we were going to be doing. My husband and I looked for the last month trying to find one that fit me. I am 5 ft tall with an inseam measurement of only 24 ½. Just when things looked really bad we stopped at a Harley Dealer that was supposed to have one of the new Sportster low models. When we told the salesman what we wanted, he told us I would never be able to ride the Sportster because it would not be lowered enough so I could flat foot the bike. He took us over to the Softtails and started to tell us all the things they could do to make this bike fit me. Well to make a long story short he talked to us for 2 hours. I sat on 6, yes 6, bikes . . . he changed seats, he even got the owners bike out which had been lowered and changed the seat on it and let me try it out. Two days later we bought a new Softail Deluxe, seat height 24 ½ inches. We had the front lowered and put Sportster grips on it. I picked up Sat. and rode all weekend. Never did I think I would be able to ride a bike this size or this beautiful. We had been to every dealer in our area and I looked at every brand of bike. So when things look like you want be able to find what you need, there are good motorcycle salespeople out there who really want to help you get the right ride for you. I have enjoyed this website so much. It has been very helpful to me after such a long time away from riding. I hope my story will help some one out there find the best ride for them. – Karen Dear
Karen, Monday, October 18 For Tracy and Marina on the use of ear plugs while riding: I use a headband or a folded scarf for ear protection and mostly from wind. I've been riding for 12 years and haven't gone deaf, yet. It could be good genetics, I suppose. – Cecilia (note from Mama: I always wear a scarf like you (with my half helmet) as it does a wonderful job of shielding the wind. As to noise abatement, well, I rarely ride with a group, so noise has never really been an issue for me except when I'm going on a charity run with hundreds and hundreds of other riders . . . and then it's soooo loud that I'm not sure if ear plugs could even drown out that! And I kinda like the rumble then, but of course, it's not all the time!) Monday, October 18 For Michelle's input on the use of ear plugs while riding: I had to say .....I'm with Michele on her eval of ear plugs. I never knew the difference, always riding with a group of Harleys (God love 'em), now I have the Honda Valkyrie and started using earplugs to drown out the Harley noise......Walla.....got from point A to point B as fresh as a daisy! I could still hear the Valk to shift, but the annoyance of the wind and riding behind Harleys was minimized so that I could hardly believe it. Earplugs are worth a shot and you can get cheap flesh colored ones at Wally World or Walgreens. I like not being rumdum.....give 'er a shot! Happy riding! – Sparkle (note from Mama: another satisfied user . . . thanks for sharing!) Monday, October 18 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Anderson, If you haven't already done this, I would suggest that you call your local dealer's service department (try to hit them during non-peak hours) -- who knows what troubleshooting steps they might come up with for you! – Mama Monday, October 18 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jenn, As a new rider, it can take some time to learn the nuances of your bike's performance, so it might be advisable to get some miles under your belt in it's current configuration (as long as the bike keeps running well). If you are satisfied with the current performance (throttle response/hp) then leave well enough alone, but if the extra power (which is often the case with changing out the stock jet) is of interest down the line, then consider making the change. New riders often report that they are ready for more oomph in about six months of steady riding time. Just some food for thought. – Mama Tuesday, October 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kysa, I rang the academy of Off Road Riding in Sydney and they do not have any branches in Western Australia. Then I rang Andy Wigan, the editor of Australasian Dirt Bike Magazine. Andy was also unable to find anyone doing off road bike courses in W.A. Andy and I tossed a few ideas about and came to following conclusion...Kysa, you need to contact a local trail/enduro/motocross club near you and tell them you wish to join and that you need someone to teach you the skills of off road riding. I am sure they will be more than happy to assist...it will not cost you any money and you will find that most of the dirt riding clubs cater for new and beginner off roaders. If you are having trouble finding a club in your area...go to a large motorcycle dealership and ask if they have contact details of such a club. Yamaha has an organization called Tribes...a Yamaha owners club. Failing that...there are many excellent instructional videos available in bike shops and on the Net that show you all you need to know about off road riding skills. It will not matter if the video is set in Oz , the UK or the USA...dirt riding is the same everywhere. You want one that teaches basic trail riding/dirt riding skills...not enduro or motocross. My thoughts are that maybe hubby can watch the video with you and you can then practice what you have seen together when out riding. I have just found this site on the Net for Motorcycling in W.A. They have a forum for dirt biking...and women riders generally. http://www.motorcyclingwa.org.au/ This
is the Australian Dual Sport and off road riders club...you can click on a
link to your state at this site. This
is an off road riding site that has links throughout Australia. Good luck Kysa. Cheers – Kevin (note from Mama: and there you have it Kysa . . . lots of great steps to consider in your venture to ride off road in WA! Let us know how it's going! And thanks Kevin for stepping into my riding boots and helping out a mate given the fact that you are on the other side of the continent of Australia and the world from me!) Tuesday, October 19 For Anderson whose bike's turn signals only work after riding for 4-5 miles: This bike has self-canceling turn signals. I would check to see if the turn signal cancel unit or the angle sensor is the culprit. Either or both could be at the core of needing ‘warm up time’ before working properly. The ‘Clymer’ service manual has a very detailed description on testing these units on the Honda V-fours. Great book to have around when you're doin' your own wrenching. – HammerLady who runs www.shinnyside.com (note from Mama: thank goodness this site is a discussion forum and not just me talking! Great input and second the motion on getting a service/maintenance manual. The Clymer books are aftermarket and about $20 a pop . . . the factory version about $60. Check my Education Center page for Internet sources on manuals.) Tuesday, October 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, I really want women to know that they do not need to give up. It really is a lot of fun and not as hard as some of us convince ourselves that it is. I passed the MSF course in April and have been putting it off, until yesterday!! What an awesome experience and a major accomplishment that was for me. I know now the only thing standing it my way was myself, and well, I might want to move, cause the new April is making a new path, down the highway. I guess the grass will grow back in time.....oh well!! Don't give up, – April Dear
April,
\\\\_ Your accomplishment is sooooo WOW and I'm proud of you! Your message to other new riders goes along way to letting them know that they are not alone in the pursuit of a dream. And I'm guessing the grass is grateful that you're finally off of it! – Mama Tuesday, October 19 For Cecilia on ear plugs, hearing and genetics: My uncle's 83 year old mother is still alive and hears just fine, as does his 58 year old sister (my mother). And at 41, I have no problem hearing either. So I really don't think genetics had anything to do with his hearing loss (neither do the doctors). And neither of us completely blame motorcycling, but he does feel it had an impact. I worked in an industrial plant for over five years and hearing protection is a huge issue. When you are taught the damage that is done to your hearing by the constant bombardment of noise, you learn to adapt to the use of ear plugs and even welcome them in time. And as others have said, they by no means block ALL of the noise. This is a personal choice in many areas. As I've researched this issue, I've found it amusing that many of the really hard-core, long distance riders advocate the use of ear plugs, and now after using them myself, I can understand why. Ride safe, – Tracy (note from Mama: well I know I'll be trying them on my next Toy Run . . . a good testing ground to see the impact . . . so many Harleys, so much "sound"!!) Wednesday, October 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Deb,
\\\\_ That's my electronic biker wave to you! – Mama Wednesday, October 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Candye, By the by readers , I never give out info without permission, but will go to great lengths to connect two readers if they are mutually interested. – Mama Thursday, October 21 For Kevin who offered suggestions of learning to dirt ride in Western Australia: Just wanted to say a _*BIG THANKS*_ for all your help in answering my question. Many thanks to Kevin as well. I really do appreciate all the hard work and the information that you guys collected for me. THANKS again - you guys ROCK! – Kysa (note from Mama: Kevin will appreciate that you took the time to acknowledge his help and his wife Terri will have to tell him not to get such a big head over it! It's reported that he's a big flirt in the motorcycle chat rooms, but he would say that he likes to be honest in his viewpoints, which can be quite direct at times. He certainly is at this site, and I appreciate it! Thoughtful, constructive input is at the heart of this forum always!) Thursday, October 21 I'm glad I found your site too. I really love when I see women enjoying riding as much as us guys. Thank you for your reply. I have not figured it out yet but I'll let you know when I do. The guy at the shop said to clean everything and check for shorts. When I told him I did already he was pretty stumped. There was a post on your site about my self cancellation unit. I heard somebody else mention that, so I'm gonna check that next. Again, thank you very much. – Anderson (note from Mama: you are very welcome . . . am posting this in hopes another reader sees your request for input and has some additional thoughts on what else to check. It's a real brain teaser! Just a thought, but have you replaced the actual bulbs in the turn signals? I know in many configurations, if a bulb burns out, all turn signals on that side cease to work. A hairline crack in one of the bulbs could be causing a problem. Ok, ok, I know this is really bad KISS, but then, you never know!) Friday, October 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, After a disappointing, cold and rainy summer and fall in Ottawa (I didn't get in as much riding as I'd have liked!!) the bikes have been put into storage, so I thought that I'd drop you a line to let you know how I fared. 1. I have taken your advice on improving my upper-body
strength, and have started lifting 8 and 15 lb weights, concentrating on
shoulders, so sometime next season I can hopefully get on my Sportster. 4. I am ordering the "Ride Like a Pro" DVDs that you suggested for cold-weather viewing. I figure if I watch them a few hundred times, the techniques will be drilled into my head by the time it gets warm enough to really practice them. 5. When I am riding, I have found it helpful to not be super-afraid, but create an alternative headspace. I envision the bike being a part of my body; brain-controlled and automatically reacting. I pretend that I am flying low to the ground like Superman sitting up, and this is a normal function of my body. I try not to think too much about what I am doing on the bike, and more about what I am seeing all around me that I may need to react to. This may sound just bizarre, but it works for me! 6. When I come in from riding my Marauder, I get on my (parked) Sportster, feet on the ground, and flip it back and forth between my thighs, so that my last impression is of a heavier bike. This is purely psychological, but I want myself to think of that weight as "normal." The Marauder weighs next to nothing. When I do get finally to ride my Sportster, I will evaluate whether I need to get it lowered or not. Someone told me that, even though I am 5'8", lowering it could be a night and day difference in center of gravity because I am relatively light. Is this true? Many, many, thanks for your time and caring, and to all the ladies out there who inspire me through their stories! – Louise Dear
Louise, What I want to share with you is the pure joy of being VTwin Mama. And it's not just the second letter that let's me know my advice (and those readers who chose to respond) was considered, implemented, and tailored to fit your needs, but also the first letter, where you had the courage to pour out your true feelings on what was happening. I've been writing this column for almost four years now, and letters like yours never stop striking at the core of my heart. If ever I were to write a mission statement for the "business" of VTwin Mama . . . it would have to include the words, "to make a difference." It is not an exaggeration to tell you that tears come to my eyes when a sister has found the steps she needs to take to continue the journey and adventure that is part and parcel of learning to ride. I am soooo proud of you! You've experienced some triumphant moments, recognized that which still needs work, outlined your next steps to become a more proficient rider, established thoughts on how to achieve a synergy and oneness with your bikes, and taken the time to share it all. WOW! You can choose to believe this or not . . . but YOU are MY hero . . . because of your courage and determination to face the challenges as they present themselves. If this isn't the definition of a hero, then I don't know what is (IMHO)! By all means, lower the beastie because yes, it will lower the center of gravity of the bike. I can't determine for you if it's an absolutely necessary step. Riding time is what gives a rider the ability to judge the handling difference of a bike in different configurations. Consider holding off on the decision and get current riding time next season on the Marauder and then graduate yourself to the Sporty. Get a feel for the Sporty. That way, if you do lower it, you will know how differently the bike handles without and with the lowering and you will be in position to determine if you prefer it lowered or not! Enjoy your "time off" and I think you're going to love Ride Like a Pro. Watching it with your very supportive hubby dearest will open the discussion on how to proceed with your next practice sessions. So, my hat is off to you and I can't wait to hear how it's going! – Mama Saturday, October 23 For Louise who is making great strides in her beginning riding experience: Dear Louise, I know exactly how you feel. I had a light weight Suzuki Savage about 5 years ago and rode o.k. with that bike. However, I was not proficient at riding slow. Then, I got a new bike, a V-Star Classic, which was a much heavier bike. I dropped it several times and scared myself into quitting. So, very good for you not to have quit!! I am starting over again. I got a Buell Blast 2 years ago, but did not ride it much until I started reading this web site, and then I got inspired! I just picked up my new bike today!! Thanks to this web site, and all the great letters from the ladies, I chose a Dyna Low Rider. We had to have it lowered and the seat carved down, as I am only 5' tall, but with only 1 hour riding today, I feel still a little nervous, but so great! I love this bike so much! (P.S. I also got the Ride like a Pro video and enjoyed it very much) Thank you, Thank you VTwin Mama!!! – Lee (note from Mama: you are welcome! This letter goes to show that repeated attempts to learn to ride are not out of the ordinary and that seeking solutions helps realize the dream of riding. Thanks for letting Louise know she's doing just fine!) You are so right about that working! [Louise's point #5 about how she envisions herself as she rides] I was told by my motorcycle safety course instructor to 'keep my knees in!' over & over until I finally realized that I needed to treat this bike just like the horses I used to ride - it needs that contact at the knees as well as the hands and feet! I feel much more secure that way (hanging on with my knees) and can actually semi-steer the bike that way too! Particularly in a sideways motion, like when you travel across lanes. Keep up the good work Louise! – Amy (note from Mama: I agree . . . I tend to ride with my knees splayed out a bit but learned when entering tight or blind road curves that by bringing in my knees I have even a better sense of control in conjunction with counter-steering principals. Anytime we move our body parts closer to the center of gravity, i.e. the pivot point around which bikes move in a turn, the more "one" we are with what the bike characteristically will be doing. Therefore, a greater sense of control and well being!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
David, Tuesday, October 26 Dear
VTwin Mama, The teacher who likes them is a well know highway patrolman who makes instructional videos and insists all his students get them. The other guys teaches the local MSF course and has logged almost a million accident free miles. So these are both qualified to give opinions, but how can they be so different? I lean toward getting the highway bars, but need more advice and would like some from my fellow women riders before making a final decision. Thank you so much for this great site. I anxiously await your words of wisdom please. – Laura Baker Dear
Laura, My feelings are that these opposing viewpoints from credible sources both revolve around the same thing: crash situations. The theory is that in slow oopsies (bike falling over at a stop, slow turn, etc.), a highway bar/engine guard protects the bike from landing full on its side, thus giving a better chance that paint jobs and parts won't get damaged, and an added split second to get your leg out of there. We've certainly have had letters at this site documenting this. However, many people mount highway cruising pegs to the bar/guard so that their legs can rest in a different position (extended out) for comfort. One assumes that you will be traveling at a higher speed when using this "option." Even without the pegs and your legs in a "normal" riding position, a higher speed emergency situation happens so fast, there is little time to weigh options. Conventional wisdom advocates to stay with the bike as long as possible as it affords a modicum of protection, and that sliding with the bike, as opposed to tumbling off, is the better bet in most cases. So, if a side slide crash begins, the bar/guard will keep the bike from laying fully on its side, once more giving that split second to get your leg out of there. Still, it is an added component that in the wrong situation (getting thrown from the bike for example) could cause you to get tangled up in the bike. Let's look at another example. Suppose you add a backrest to your bike for more comfort. This is wonderful . . . but, you've got to take into consideration that you have less maneuverability in getting off the bike in an emergency situation because your body is now "wedged" between the backrest and the handlebars. You can't slide off the bike backwards and have less room to swing your body off sideways somehow. What was the point of all that?! No matter what choice you make in regard to the bar/guard, it is imperative that you have an emergency exit plan worked out in our brain. Depending upon the situation, will you use front brake, rear brake, no brake, or a combination? How does the bike respond in each of these uses and how will your body be thrown? Will the bar/guard be an asset or a hindrance? The New Zealand Motorcycle Safety Consultants (NZMSC) runs an excellent site with a page titled, "Focusing on Survival Skills." This is an excellent read-through to help you envision what you will do if something bad happens, and the possible consequences of brake use. I'm hoping other readers will chime in with other sites that offer insights on the best way to handle a crash situation. I have personally survived a high speed crash (of my own making I'm sorry to say, but will freely admit to it) and I know that because I had pre-envisioned what I would do in different situations, I had a better chance of surviving it. My personal choice is to always go down on the left side (if a choice is possible) as I feel that I can pull my left leg out of the way faster than my right. If I have to "throw" myself away from the bike, I also feel that the left will be my choice (and this is what I did in the aforementioned crash). From my earlier years of gymnastic training, I know that I also instinctively try to tuck and roll leading from my left shoulder rather than my right. Again, these are personal choices, but the point is that everyone needs to think about what their best options are. I personally like having a bar/guard, but NEVER count on it. That means that if it holds, I'll have that extra second, but I have pre-envisioned how I'm going to draw up and tuck my leg in as quickly as possible. I also know my seat won't allow me to slide off the back and when I ride my friend's BWM, that the luggage carrier is mounted behind me. These are points that I've considered in advance. So, I've offered my thoughts. Let's see what other riders have to say! – Mama Tuesday, October 26 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have been trying to find a chrome brake pedal with a larger foot area. I have talked to the local H/D store and they said Harley Davidson does not make this product and maybe a 3rd party mfg might. I sent a note to Arlene Ness and they never replied. Do you have any suggestions of a manufacturer or a reliable company that could make such a product? – Sandy in Spring Hill, FL Dear
Sandy, Another big aftermarket part house for Harleys is J&P Cycle (they've been doing this since 1979!). Click on the logo below to get to their site and do a search, but you'll find their 800 phone number as well . . . I find their people to be very helpful in exploring for options. And, get a copy of their FREE catalog for future shopping options while you're at it!
If you still need more search options, check my new Aftermarket page that lists lots of sites for further exploration. Hope these suggestions help you find what you're looking for! – Mama Wednesday, October 27 For Laura who ponders whether to add a highway bar/engine guard: This is for Laura and her dilemma with engine guards: How about the opinion/point of view of a third ridercoach? As such, I would ask you; 'What do YOU want?'. 'Which of the two reasons given, pro and con make more sense to you?' and lastly, 'What level of risk of either choice are you willing to accept?' No one except you can decide your level of risk acceptance. It's the same with everything related to YOUR ride. It's not the one instructor's paint job and engine that will be damaged when YOU drop your bike. It's not the other instructors leg that will get caught (and actually that's the first time I've heard that one) in a high speed fall when you (gawd forbid) crash. It will be YOU and yours. So only you can decide what's gonna be right for you. In the classroom I'm always having students ask what I would do in any given situation. I turn it around and ask them right back "what would YOU do?" I nearly always get a very common sense answer back. Then I tell them THAT'S the right answer for YOU. I also tell them to ask themselves that same question two years from now, five years from now, that I'd be willing to bet the answer will be different after a few years of experience. That only YOU can decide where your comfort zone is and how much risk you are willing to except within your abilities and your bikes limits. So ask yourself "what's right for ME?" The answer to your question will be the right one for you. It's back to the old saying "Ride your own ride." – HammerLady, an instructor and moderator for www.shinnysideup.com, a discussion forum (note from Mama: excellent point that amid many varying opinions that are useful to listen to, ultimately, we must choose for ourselves and accept that our choices may change over time!) I'm writing in response to Laura's question about the highway/crash bars for her bike. If you browse any paper or online catalog for this accessory there is usually a warning somewhere on the ad that states the bars will not protect you in a crash. From what I've learned (I've been looking at getting them for my bike too!) they have three main purposes. First: ornamentation. They do make the bike look great! Second: a mounting surface for highway pegs. Third: protection from minor incidents. If you tip your bike over at a stop it *may* prevent damage to chrome and paint (depending on the quality of the materials used in the bar). If you go down at speed they will more than likely dent, bend or tear off (depending on how you go down and at what speed). And yes there is the danger of becoming entrapped by the bar if it happens to bend over your foot or leg. Good luck with your decision! I've already made mine. I've tipped my bike over once and scraped the paint on my front fender and fiberglass saddlebag. I'm getting engine guards and crash guards for the saddlebags too (see http://www.championsidecars.com/ for awesome saddlebag guards - it's the only place I could find them for my bike). Oh yeah, I think it'll make my bike look so much better too! : ) – Jennifer (note from Mama: you offered a stronger worded message that this type of option is not to be counted in a crash situation . . . good point on what the catalogs have to say about it as I didn't catch that! Sounds like you're ready however to add a little protection where it can be added for specific reasons!) Wednesday, October 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lee Anne, So, here is your post for all to see . . . you can check for women riders in your area a number of other ways. First, hop onto my Let's Ride page, a listing by city/state with email addresses for contact purposes. Another good site for a women's rider list is I Ride My Own. If you haven't tried an established women's riding organization, but would like to explore local chapter options, then click over to my Women's Sites page which has them linked up! Glad you wrote in to say hi . . . this forum explores women's (and men's) questions, offers an opportunity for you to respond with useful information you might have, or to share an observation that is near and dear to you! Your newest bike sounds just yummy . . . can I come over and play?!?!?!? Just kidding . . . but we'd love to see you and your bike sometime . . . so email a pic and get 15 minutes of fame on the home page! To this day, the Photo Gallery continues to be the number ONE page visited on this site besides the home page! Go figure! – Mama Thursday, October 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Emma, Both host their own discussion forums, so you'll be able to pose your question there. It's not that we want to lose you here at VTwin Mama, but this site does tend to talk more about cruisers and touring bikes. Still, you never know who will chime in with advice, so check back over the next few days to see if a sporty bike rider has advice for you! – Mama Thursday, October 28 More input on the use of ear plugs while riding: Hey, Mama, the new web page is looking good. I wanted to respond to the earplug issue. The husband wears earplugs when he rides his Dynaglide. He already has tinnitis from a job with noisy machines and doesn't want any further damage. He can still hear what he needs to hear to be a safe rider. Last weekend I hit another milestone by riding to Biketoberfest in Daytona with husband and friends for the day. Wonderful to be on the road with so many riders, all being safe and considerate (we left before happy hour). Only one time did I feel I didn't "ride my own ride" merging onto a four-lane highway with the group at night after a really fast head check. Sometimes I have a hard time distinguishing distances with headlights approaching, but the group was being cautious so I went ahead. I took the Triumph and she got lots of attention, mostly from riders who used to have one. The more I ride, the more I enjoy her. My first choice may turn out to be the right bike for me after all. Big thanks again for your encouragement. Regards, – Sarah (note from Mama: thanks for input on ear plugs and glad you like the new look of the VTwin Mama website. Your newest milestone is a doozy . . . and I am soooo proud of you and glad to hear that you and the Bonny Triumph are becoming one with each other! Sounds like you did just fine with the night merge to highway heck, but you might want to consider adding some night riding practice in a more controlled environment, i.e. roads and areas you already know well. Just a thought!) Thursday, October 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
John, Thursday, October 28 Dear
VTwin Mama, I'm your basic new rider with a couple of problems (over and above the jitters). I passed the MSF course and bought a 1998 Intruder 800, which I brought home last night. Today was the first day that I tried to take it out, and I dropped it at the end of our road, which is a private dirt with some gravel affair, about 125 feet long with a bump at the end where it meets the pavement (I'll address my feeling about the causes of the drop in "part 2"). Of course, I was embarrassed by the drop, but expected this sort of thing would happen sooner or later (or sooner) and had looked at the sites that show how to pick a bike up again, etc, so I thought I could figure it out. I hit the engine cutoff, turned off the bike . . . it was already in gear . . . I was ready to try the techniques! However, a couple of things were a little different. My bike was almost flat on the ground (dropped on the right side) and I just couldn't seem to get myself into any of the angles that showed on the websites. An additional problem was that my feet kept slipping, no matter how much I tried to clear the stones (it may have been the angles were just too far off too). Lastly, to my horror, gasoline was dripping out of the top of the tank...shouldn't some gasket or something keep the gasoline in there? I don't even know what you call the hole where you put the gas in... **sigh** . I tried to prop up the front end with my helmet (yeah, I'll be buying a new one . . . I'm sure gasoline isn't good for its structural integrity, not to mention the lingering smell for me) to get a better angle on the seat and to try and keep the gas from dripping out, to no avail. I didn't know what to do! No one was around and gas was dripping out, so I called the town police. Long story short, the paramedic came and helped me pick up the bike. The fire truck (complete with sirens) came and rolled their eyes, but at least dumped some of that gasoline absorbent stuff on the spill. All in all, they were pretty nice. I turned the bike back on and slunk up the road to my garage (I did pick my feet up!). Actually, I could laugh much of this off (it is kind of funny), being unable to pick the bike up is making me afraid to go out on it again (once I get a new helmet that is). I like the idea of getting carpeting and trying it in the driveway, since I think that I should be able to do this (I'm 5'4" and 145 lbs, but 48 years flabby), but how do I handle the gasoline thing? I still feel ok about the bike, it's size etc. I feel the factors in the drop were 1) intimidation by and thinking too much about a non-parking lot environment 2) inexperience with how the controls on this bike would respond (had trouble finding it and it had a lot more play than I was expecting) 3) new rider inexperience 4) jitters/lack of confidence. Does anyone have any ideas on how I can conquer this fear? I was thinking that an engine guard would help, so the bike would not lay so flat, but I'm still concerned about the gasoline thing. Now, you may be thinking that I should have started out in a parking lot first, which would have been my preferred strategy as well, but my situation is complicated by an extremely unsupportive, in fact almost vindictive SO. Like many women, I'd ridden pillion for several years. From the first moment I sat on the back of the bike, I just loved it. I began to ask myself, why couldn't I do this! Without going into any more details (it's just too exhausting to write about), I did take the MSF course and got my license. When I told SO about the bike, he was furious and made it clear that this was a significant issue between us and that he would not help me (other than to drive the bike home from the dealer, which is about 15 highway/suburban miles away). He took the passenger seat and passenger pegs off of his bike and threw them into the trash. This is important, because as my bike was going down today, all I could "feel" was that I was stupid to even be trying this, what did I expect, etc, etc. I called him about the dropped bike, looking for words of support more than actual help, and he refused to talk with me or otherwise support me and hung up. I wasn't too surprised, but I was hoping for different. He just sucks the confidence right out of me. I have met some great women at local WOW, but I'm reluctant to involve them in this, although they're aware of my overall lack of support at home. I know that this involves issues that really go beyond motorcycling, but I was wondering if any other women have struggled with this issue to the same extent. I had taken some heart from Annie B who had struggled with an unsupportive husband, but right now I'm feeling like I just don't have the oomph to battle the usual beginner issues and the SO "undertow". I'm thinking I need to resolve some deeper issues before struggling with the demands of learning to ride a motorcycle. I appreciate your thoughts...Thanks for listening. – Susan Dear
Susan, So, what to say. Hmmmm . . . first point . . . yes, it's true, the little beasties don't always fall in a position that lends itself to using pick up techniques, especially adding gravel/dirt under your feet. I think you handled it BEAUTIFULLY in calling for assistance from the local police. You took care of the situation! Yes, an engine guard or highway bar would have kept the bike at more of an angle that might have helped, so keep it in mind for future considerations (although a firm ground footing still makes a big difference). NEVER be reluctant to flag or call for help. It happens sometimes. To us all. I've never known a bike that didn't leak gas from it's "gas input hole" which is probably more correctly called something like a "gas tank input" but heck, if there is a proper name for it, I've got no stinking clue (tee hee hee, I admit I laughed with you on that one!). Sigh. Main point here: don't strike a match and clean up the bike as soon as possible to minimize damage to the paint job. You may have "slunk" back, but you got the bike back up the road. Kudos. You again took care of what needed to happen. Significant Other sounds like a pill. You've got deeper issues to work out on that one and I'm hoping in the back of my mind that maybe Annie B. will offer to talk or email one-on-one with you. That's up to her, or maybe someone else out there reading this, who understands what you're going through with her own first hand experience, will offer communication options. Sounds like you need a kindred sister spirit. I will pass on email addresses and/or phone numbers only with the express permission from both parties. I can appreciate that you were reluctant to call on WOW chapter sisters, but will note this: next time you meet up with the group, ask to bring up your specific incident (beastie taking a nap) . . . as a general topic of "what to do." Let the group talk about how they handle these things (trust me, you are NOT ALONE) and then see if there is a personal support level that might arise from it. Now, would it be possible to garage your bike at a "sister's" place for a short while . . . somewhere that would provide easier access to paved roads right off the bat, with a practice area nearby? This could be a temporary arrangement, but would allow you to approach the bike for a ride and not add the negativity of the SO part and you've got a sister mentor to boot. You never know until you ask for what you need to make a difference to you right now. Family member? Co-worker? Girlfriend? I can appreciate that you might want to shelve learning to ride for right now, but also think that if you kanoodle out some other options, your possible solution set might be wider than you were thinking at the time you wrote this letter. Take heart sister, we're listening and hoping for the very best outcome for you. Now, go find options so your dream of riding is not delayed one minute longer than it needs to be! – Many, many hugs in deepest support, Mama Friday, October 29 For Susan who is facing many challenges, including a non supportive SO: Susan -- I could feel the frustration and emotion flowing from your letter. I know you will get lots of support helping you to get through this. Just know that you have lots of sisters giving you mental hugs and encouragement to deal positively with everything in your life. As long as you focus on what is good for you, you WILL come out on top, even if you are walking through a pile of sh** right now. – Carol (note from Mama: oh, I like the mental hugs you offered, and agree that positive thinking is a very constructive way to work through life's challenges! You've GOT to SEE yourself achieving life goals to get there!) Wow, I can't believe how unsupportive some people's partners are! I can't understand how one could love riding so much and then want to deny someone else (and someone they presumably love) the pleasure. A friend of mine recently decided that his wife (also now a friend of mine, since our fabulous meeting in South Carolina) MUST learn to ride, so he doesn't orphan their kids with a two-up incident! I know that sometimes unsupportiveness simply stems from concern for the new rider's welfare, but then training books and videos and and great gear and assistance are in order, not disapproval! Susan, I'm sure that some of your WOW sisters would be more than happy to come to your assistance if you drop your bike again and can't pick her up. Petra is right that you need to feel around this issue a little more. Maybe there is a VTwin Mama sister near you that would be happy to be on your call list (not in the East SF Bay are you?). Keeping your bike at a friend's house is also a fantastic idea! But, I had an idea for the gravelly drive/footing problem. Find a nice piece of carpet, and stash it in your saddlebag (or bungee net it on). Then, you can throw that over the gravel to provide more secure footing for yourself. Some kind of floor mat with a nice rubbery backing would give it better traction on pebbly ground, I think. And never feel ashamed to ask for help. The time I tipped my bike over, I was too freaked out myself (by that gas running out from under the fill-cap!) to muster the strength to lift it! Luckily, some nice guy from across the street gave me a hand. Anyways, always stop to assist when you see someone in need, and then you will really feel like you deserve any kindness you receive in turn. Keep your spirits up! Taking on your dreams despite of adversity is so impressive! – Marina (note from Mama: I agree that often times outright disapproval and the accompanying "freeze" can stem from a number of issues, so why do we humans not just learn to come right out and say what's on our minds?!?!?! Ick, this is starting to sound like a self-help book. Great idea for ALL riders who deal with dirt/gravel roads on a regular basis to stash a carpet piece or section of rubber matting. Omigosh, it was soooo much easier to say gas is running out from under the fill-cap, then trying to name the hole we put gas in! Ok, I'm still chuckling over that one! And you are right . . . one day Susan is going to be in position to help another rider . . . and she'll remember the help she received. It's a big circle of sharing and caring out there folks! ) Susan . . . I am going to be blunt to the point of being brutal hun . . . but someone at this site needs to say it out loud. I am sure many are thinking it . . . you as well, I expect. The bike is too heavy for you to pick up . . . that's all there is to it! Prove me wrong. Get someone (who can pick it up) to lay it down on some soft grass and see if you can pick it up then. I am giving you this option because I realize that the gravel was obviously a major factor in the bike slipping and sliding when you had problems the other day. If you still cannot pick it up? For years male and female riders always used to say . . . "If you can't pick a particular bike up because it's too big and heavy for you, then you shouldn't be riding it." When did that logic stop being sensible? I myself struggle to pick up a Harley Softail and I bench press my than my own bodyweight . . . benching weight and lifting up a heavy bike are way different things. I know for a fact I could NEVER pick up a fully dressed Harley or the big Goldwings. That's why I will never own those kind of bikes. I am absolutely not against women riding big bikes, but common sense needs to brought into the equation here. Now, having said that I am going to pass along a few tips on how you CAN make picking up a heavy bike easier. 1) Firstly make sure the petrol tap [that's
gas cock in U.S.-speak!] is turned OFF. This will stop the carbies
overflowing and even more fuel running from the carbie overflow. Petrol
always runs out of the petrol filler cap ( that's what we call it Petra,
grin.) So long as you're not smoking, you should be ok. Susan . . . ladies . . . if you still cannot lift the bike using these techniques .it's time to give up and buy a lighter motorcycle. Unless of course you wish to rely on a passersby or calling someone on your cell phone for assistance. And please ladies; before anyone says where are we supposed to carry the strap -- I never go anywhere without a tool roll on the bike and a bum bag with light weight wet weather gear inside it . . . the strap will roll up and fit in either of these places. Now Susan, as regards your unsupportive male mate. If he's not helping you when you need it, he's hurting you. I know what blokes are like -- I am one. I know it's easy to say, but it's true. Something you really want to do (the biking) and he's giving you shit about it? You have to ask yourself (and maybe him ), why? Why is he being such a pain about you riding your own bike? Is his ego threatened? Does he feel he will lose you because you now have the freedom to go riding on your own? Is he really that insecure? Does he worry about your safety on the roads, riding solo? Being a bloke he will probably only admit to the last point. Explain how happy you will be if he can encourage and help you to learn the new skills the bike requires. How, now you need his support and riding experience more than ever. How much safer it will be for you if he accompanies you when you go out on the bike. if he still continues to be a pratt after all those points have been raised, you obviously need to examine the way your relationship is going. I am kind of guessing that maybe the biking is not the only aspect of your life together that is having problems. I have said this to people time and time again . . . you can only do so much much to help or influence others. At the end of the day you have to do what's best for you. You cannot help (or be with ) people if they won't help themselves. Self destruction is a downward spiral. Once you start on that path, it's hard to climb back up. Don't let him make your life hell Susan. If he is making life hard for you, there's only one thing to do . . . move on. I reckon I am not telling you anything you have not already worked out for yourself. I wish you all the best matey. – Kevin and Terri in Oz, aka Australia (note from Mama: your brutally honest beginning of this response led right into a number of benchmark points for consideration! Voila! Clear cut thoughts on trying some techniques to gauge the real life need to pick up the bike. I agree . . . the time to learn what bike weight you can handle is NOT when it's an emergency, but rather, NOW, when the learning technique can be controlled! I personally have taken your suggestion to carry straps to heart . . . I've got a number of then hanging in my garage (lot of good they do me there!) that can easily be rolled up and added to my "kit," along with duct tape, a master chain link, extra spark plugs, two screwdrivers, etc. I appreciate your "blokes" view on the SO relationship . . . you are right to say that it's probably not anything Susan hasn't already figured out . . . but sometimes, seeing the words written by another is the catalyst needed to move forward. In my estimation, your honest look at the many components of Susan's dilemma was well crafted and I thank you for taking the time send a detailed message.)All I can say is you have guts lady!!! I don't know what I would of done if I had been in your shoes. But all I can say is you did the right thing. Not to worry . . . the police get called for lesser things but that's what they are there for . . . to help those in need. Ok, as for the SO business. *sigh* Of course, only you know this person. Maybe SO doesn't like you riding your own cause it may mean you are getting independent or that the bike thing was his. Who knows. I am sorry he acts this way. It bugs me something fierce when I hear a Spouse will not support the other when one decides to take a step into the unknown. All I can say is maybe he will come around in time. Could be he may be scared for you that you may get hurt and only way he can deal with these feelings is through anger. But keep your chin up hun. If you do a bit of soul searching and find that riding a bike is what you really want to do, DO IT ! Use that WoW group. Sure, they aren't your SO, but they will still be there for you. Don't let one little incident destroy a life time of fun. Good Luck hun. I hope things turn around for you. – Tara (note from Mama: love your stronger message that calling for local city-based help is ALWAYS appropriate. It may feel humbling or embarrassing, but LEARNING is LEARNING . . . and to deny a lifetime dream would be the greater loss. Just thought of something . . . maybe Susan could appeal to a friend of the SO to learn more about what could be at the core of the non-support . . . just a side note of that one.) After I wrote to you the other day about my first ride, I have been on another. This time we went on 3 different major highways and some back roads. I was so pumped and now I am totally hooked! I sit at my desk and look outside and long to be out there riding. My heart goes out to all of these women that do not have supportive SO's. That has to be so frustrating! I am blessed to have a husband that supports me, but I do not take that for granted. Every time I read one of those stories, my heart actually aches for them and I feel a great need to thank mine for being supportive. All of these women are in my prayers and will continue to be so that they do not get discouraged and give up this awesome adventure. I feel that even if these women prove it to themselves that they can do this, they are accomplishing a lot. (They could always just go for a ride when the SO feels as though he needs to be supported!!) – April (note from Mama: kudos to you on the newest accomplishment, a testimonial that the dream to ride IS achievable! Many hugs to your hubby dearest who is supportive . . . it reminds me to thank MY riding buddies, both female and male, the next time I see them because I know I can count on them! At first I didn't get your last line in the message, but I think you mean, just because Susan is learning to ride her own, doesn't mean that she can't ride pillion with the SO, as this has been a historically important part of their relationship. Hmmmmm . . . small steps, encompassing both, to achieve the overall goal. Food for thought.) Saturday, October 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, [I queried Shirley on why this conversion was more stable and here is her reply:] The conversion I have is made with square iron rod, allowing the rider to stand on the conversion when climbing on and off. It also is wider in the front making it almost impossible to turn over. The rear of the conversion is the same width as other conversions. There is no website for this company as it is a small family owned enterprise. I am extremely happy with this unit as I had given up riding after a Harley dealership had messed up my clutch and I lost control three times, with the last time being pretty bad. After 30 years of riding, I thought I would never ride again until I met Mr. Griffin and he put the kit on my bike. I rode 600 miles the week after it went on the bike. Now I am converting to a Lehman and the conversion kit is headed north to Atlanta to another lady rider who hasn't been on a bike since an accident. – Shirley in Thomasville, GA Dear
Shirley, Saturday, October 30 More for Susan who is facing many challenges, including a non supportive SO: Susan - mine was just as awful, and he came around. If you want to ride as bad as I think you do, you don't need anyone else's approval. Mine still acts like a bear with a sore ass sometimes - he discovered the scrapes from my end-of-the-driveway drop (I needed help too and my bike is a Suzuki 250) and he tells everybody about how I wiped out my bike and his the exact same way. (Not true - his was in a parking lot). I think mine dropped because I was running it a bit cold and it stalled and kind of leaped away. His dropped because it was a messy parking lot and I hit a patch of gravel, started to lose control, and then of course kept looking at where I was going instead of where I wanted to go. As Petra would say, the oopsies happen; it is my guess that they are actually required. So, you have already satisfied one of the pre-reqs for beginning riders. Congratulations - only a few more to go! There is, of course, the mandatory kickstand drop - that's the one where you forget that it is a whole lot easier to put the kickstand down while you are still sitting on the bike. Perhaps you need to get that one out of the way soon - or maybe you can skip that one by taking the lesson to heart and this pass the advanced placement exam. And don't forget the fried battery! Just kidding - and trying to lighten things up a bit. Susan, get back on that bike. Do it soon. The longer you wait, the bigger and heavier it will get. You should have seen me putt-putting around the back streets on my first two rides. Fortunately I had one of those tinted visors - so nobody could see me talking to myself nonstop! Then, the third time I went out riding, it just clicked! Suddenly I GOT IT!!! And you know something - when that happens - you will find out what SO was maybe afraid you'd find out - RIDING IS DAMNED NEAR ORGASMIC!!!!!! Susan - do it. Tell yourself you deserve it. Tell yourself that if annieb can do it - at age 54 (and 5'4" and 145 pounds and flabby - the same as you) then you can do it too! Go ahead Susan - just tell yourself that annieb is riding right beside you and cheering all the way!!! – Annie B. (note from Mama: every new rider could use an AnnieB angel on her shoulder as she takes her first rides! Thanks for the letter of support as they go such a looooong way in letting others know that they are NOT ALONE!) I read your letter and knew exactly how you felt when you dropped the bike. Thank goodness you were not hurt. My husband was very supportive of me riding and I got my license earlier this year. I bought a Harley Electra Glide trike. I started having problems with it and sold it. I decided to pocket the money and buy a used V-Star 650. It was beautiful! All white, fully dressed. I practiced in a parking lot and then we took it out for a ride and I braked too hard and dropped it at a light. No scratches, because my knees took the fall. I rested a week or so and tried it again in the parking lot. Was doing pretty good and started making tighter turns. The lot dipped, I ran into a light post and really did a number on the bike. My husband was there and helped me. I don't know what I would have done alone. You are very brave and outgoing for doing this without you SO's support. I don't think that I would want to ride with him though. Get a friend to take you to a lot again. Your bike is heavier and bigger than what you probably took the class on. Remember only a few years ago a 650-800 was a BIG bike. Practice, Practice, Practice. Learn this bike. Get your confidence up if you want to ride. I wanted to ride, but was unable to feel secure on the bike. I am 5'3 and 110 lbs. The bike ended up too big for me. I am sure with a lowering kit I would have been fine, but I chose to buy another trike. I now have a Valkyrie trike. A big 6 cy engine. It is beautiful! I will never fall off and now both my husband and myself can ride without worries. I am not telling you to get a trike, but I can tell you they are fun and very safe. Lehman sells a great Volusia trike. This was how I ended up. But I would encourage you to find a friend to ride with and practice with. Maybe your instructors would give you some time. I do know that the correct size bike for me is the Rebel or another 250cc bike, but they cannot keep up with anyone else on the road. My trike was the answer for me. My Valk is the biggest bike out there except for a Boss Hoss (and they make trikes too) If you want to outshine your SO, a trike will do it. Everyone looks! Good luck with your riding and be proud that you completed the course and got your license. – Vicki Stellato (note from Mama: thanks for sharing how your own riding adventure began and then changed over practice time! A trike may not be the solution for all, but is certainly a consideration . . . as it has allowed many people to continue pursing their dream of riding with confidence and style!) Saturday, October 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, You have suggested once or twice that a simple way of lowering the bike is to put smaller wheels on. Yes, this will lower the bike, but you should note that this will also make the speedo inaccurate, eg., if you fit wheels that are 5% smaller than original, then they will rotate that much faster at a given speed and the speedo will also read 5% higher than you are actually traveling at. Also some time ago someone mentioned changing the sprockets on a Yamaha VStar to make it faster. Great idea, except that the VStars use a driveshaft and not a chain, ie., no sprockets to change. Good luck on a great site. I've been reading it for ages and have got some very handy tips. – Ol' Smurkey in Melbourne, Australia Dear
Ol' Smurkey, Sunday, October 31 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Cecilia, Sunday, October 31 For Kevin who feels that riders shouldn't ride a bike heavier than they can pick up: Sorry. Maybe I read this all wrong but this man pissed me off! I don't really give a flying flip if he benches his own body weight or not! He obviously does not know the correct way to pick up a downed beasty. Yes this is Sparkle again, me and the VALK want to speak! His solutions didn't give poor Susan anything to go on in my opinion, other than maybe he's another one of THOSE! I'm 5ft 8in 150lbs and me and Valk have an understanding and I depend on no one! Where does he get off telling us if we can't lift it, don't ride it. Shit, maybe he wants to ride a mini bike for the rest of his life . . . but not me! Girls, do what you want and to hell with what ever the men folk have to say. Eventually you will gain their respect but by damn you gotta learn first. I suppose they were all born with a hog between their legs. THEY NEVER WENT THRU THE LEARNING PROCESS, right? Wrong! They just admit to nothing. He said he'd never own a dresser because he can't lift it. Well, he's a wuss. Since I got the Valkyrie I have ridden my husband's Harley full dresser, no difference, but have gained total respect in my neighborhood and from my husband too. We are capable of anything the men can do, difference is we use our heads instead of our muscle, but ya know, some of us ladies have some muscle too. Sorry for the length of this but this guy Kevin sent me into orbit and I found him not the least bit supportive to Susan. Mister, what you had to say was the last thing this lady needed to hear! I am not a women's liber and I like the finer things in life just like the men do, but I hate the attitude men seem to have now that we ladies have gotten the guts to move into their once forbidden territory. Excuse me? We don't wanna be your bitch anymore! And if there is a question, Yes, the Valk fell over in the garage all by itself (damn), but guess what, it didn't take a crane to pick it back up. We don't want to pick it up and carry it somewhere, we just need to know how to get it upright. GRRRRRRRR, I'm still mad! Mama has the site that shows the correct way to pick up your bike, and it works . . . please check it out. – Sparkle (with a dagger or two) (note from Mama: it is true that Kevin and his wife Terri feel strongly that if a rider cannot pick up their bike, they should be riding something lighter weight. I felt that his viewpoint offered a point of consideration for newer riders who are trying to gauge their comfort level with a bike. I agree with you that riders can learn to master any bike they truly wish to ride (as I urged you to go for your dream bike, the Valkyrie, but noted that a good step for handling the bigger bike would be to practice pick-up techniques). Just as we think about the many aspects of a bike, it's set-up, it's handling characteristics, etc. when choosing a bike, the weight and size factor in the decision making process. Picking up a bike correctly is a very useful knowledge, and riders interested in sites that offer picture by picture instruction can visit my Pick Up the Bike page for more information.) Sunday, October 31 Dear
VTwin Mama, I got a 2004 Sportster 1200 Custom and I absolutely love it!!! My roommate has a 2002 1200 Custom, and they are totally different bikes. Mine is almost 90 pounds heavier, and wider, but I feel much more comfortable on it. She, on the other hand, feels more comfortable on hers, so I guess it is a matter of what you get used to. I would not hesitate to get a 2004/2005 Sportster for a first bike . . . it is not too big. I also rode the 883, and really didn't feel much difference. The 1200 is the one that is significantly lower, than previous models. The forward controls took a little getting used to, but after the first couple of days, I definitely think they are more comfortable than the mid-engine foot pegs. I did have the bars changed out. The stock bars were "OK", but I had the same bars as the new 883Low model put on, which brought the bars a couple of inches closer to me, and I find I am much more comfortable and relaxed. Was thinking I would do a lowering kit, but at this point, don't really feel like I need it (I'm 5'6"and the bike fits me really well). – Diane in Michigan Dear
Diane, Sunday, October 31 Dear
VTwin Mama, But
we have done a lot of modifications on Dear
Gayle, |
| © 2004 VTwin Mama | Disclaimer |
Have a blessed day. – Deb T. in Baltimore