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Friday, September 1 VTwin Mama Reviews Friction Zone Magazine Looking for travel tidbits? Are you interested in bike/product/book reviews and more? Want that for free?! I've taken a look at Friction Zone magazine and written a review! Friday, September 1 For Jana who is looking at a Ridley and a Honda Shadow 600 and getting s/o static: I learned to ride a motorcycle in
1994, and in 1996 make a cross country trip from NC to CA and back on a
Shadow 600cc. There was plenty of power even crossing the Rockies in
Colorado. Of course, I am not one of those "hell bent for
leather" riders. Friday, September 1 From Leah, whose heightened riding sense is scaring all of her riding time: I want to thank everyone for their support and encouragement. I haven't driven yet, other than to move my husband's bike from the driveway to the garage. LOL I have been shopping, and have decided that the V-Star 650 is the bike for me, and I can't wait to get one. Just so happens that last night we had a biker party here, and one of our guests has his V-Star for sale in the price range I'm looking at. Now I'm torn . . . do I quick get it now so I can get some parking lot time in before the Minnesota weather changes? Or wait until Spring? Decisions, decisions. LOL Thanks again for your thoughts! Leah (note from Mama: glad I and readers could share and care! It would be lovely to get the bike and immediately take your course learning and transfer that to practice on your own bike . . . why delay? You have a few months left in the season and then, with a bit of Spring re-train, could consider taking another course, but on your bike! You could be ready for that! Why not ring in your 40th birthday with a huge grin!) Friday, September 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Anyway, I am back on the market for a used bike after not riding for 25 years. I originally owned a 1981 Honda 450 Custom that I enjoyed but noticed that it hydroplaned on the interstate due to its and my light weight. I like the lower seat of a cruiser so I can put 2 feet flat on the ground (I'm 5'6"). But now that I'm older I'm leaning to more of a standard seat because of the improved directional control at high speeds compared to a cruiser. We have a lot of deer and potential sudden events in my area. I now live at an elevation of 6,000 ft and expect to ride to 10,000 ft on trips (reduced hp at elev), drive 70mph for my commute, interstate speeds are 75mph, and drive 80 miles round trip for work. A trip to the grocery is 15 miles one way. With that said: my Civic at over 100hp and over 3,000 lbs gets 40 mpg, I think a motorcycle should get better fuel economy than my car! I would also ride the bike on long trips for vacations. I really like the looks of the Suzuki Savage and the Yamaha Seca (mid 1990's series) and was wondering your thoughts on the handling of a cruiser compared to a standard seat for almost a newbie. I know some cruisers are more "upright" than others, maybe there is a good compromise out there you can recommend. Your thoughts and any feedback is greatly appreciated. Teresa in Colorado Dear Teresa, A standard set-up has our feet on controls directly below our hips while a cruiser is more like sitting on a kitchen chair. Local travel is easy enough on either style, but long-range travel could be less comfortable on the standard unless the motorcycle could be outfitted with a highway bar that has pegs (so you can shift your legs to another position) . . . but I'm not sure that always possible. At 5'10", and having ridden a BMW K75 (750cc) on a long trip, my only option was to cant forward and put my feet back on the passenger pegs for relief. I made due, but it wasn't my favorite. I'll admit that the bike was a bit small for me, in that initial leg room was already a bit cramped (but it was still fun to ride!). Personally, having ridden both styles, my observation is that any bike can handle quickly for emergency avoidance as long as one has taken the time to become "one with the bike." This means lots of practice, going over and over drills to master quick countersteer and braking techniques. This is where the MSF's Experienced RiderCourse is a big help . . . once you've got the basics back on your chosen bike, the ERC will fine-tune your skills on your own bike! Although the standard set-up does tend to lend itself more to a "molded" body position, meaning you are more likely to ride the bike with your body hugged to it, the same can be achieved with a cruiser model by riding with knees drawn toward the bike's body and ensuring that the handlebar isn't super wide from side to side (look for an arm position where elbows are tucked down and in . . . and remember that modifications here can be made!). I'd be a bit concerned about the altitude you're riding at. I'm pretty sure that the Civic car you have is fuel-injected. While motorcycles are jetted for the altitude they are running at, with a standard carb, the bike cannot compensate for the change in air density. That's what fuel-injection does . . . it senses the air pressure (among many things) and then injects the amount of gas needed to keep the gas/air ratio to the carb flowing for best performance. Otherwise, with a standard carb, when you increase altitude, air is less, the mixture goes "rich" (more gas in the ratio because the bike isn't getting all the air it needs), and the bike no longer runs its best (the throttle becomes less responsive, and I found riding in the Sierra Nevada mountain range that I'd have to gear down to get my "power" back, which slows down the whole ride). This can affect your "quick move" handling and gas mileage efficiency. So, give that some thought and talk it out with local
riders. If you're not really in touch with riders, consider looking for
chapters of national women's riding organizations, which can be found on
my Women's Sites page.
Introduce yourself and get some clues about the environment you'll be
riding in!
Mama Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Nancy Lou, Monday, September 4 For Teresa who is wondering if a sport or cruiser style is better for long distance riding: In response to your advice to Teresa about which style of bike is more comfortable for long trips, a cruiser or a standard style, your advice is not the best. If you go to the Iron Butt Association site, you will find in the rosters of participants in the 11,000 mile 11 day rally, they rarely ride cruisers and most ride bikes with the standard seating position that Teresa is contemplating. If you read the various books about round the world travel only one, Dave Bahr, rode a cruiser and he even admits it was a bad choice. The rest all rode or ride standard style bikes including Gary Eagan who holds countless long distance travel records on Ducati Sts (and whose seminar on distance riding I recently attended). This is because the feet forward position and hands high position puts undo stress on ones lower back by straightening out the natural curve we all have. This is why newer cars all have lumbar supports and why most people (I'm betting you're one of them) when sitting at a desk or table subconsciously tuck their feet under the seat. This allows you to rotate your hips back and return your spine to its natural position. The feet forward position straightens the curve pinching the disks in the lumbar. Whenever I ride with standard bike riders we cover miles. Whenever I ride with cruiser riders we have to frequently stop so they can "stretch their legs." In reality they are trying to take the stress off their lumbar region. Respectfully, Ann Caruso (note from Mama: thank you for sharing this interesting perspective! Iron Butt riders are truly a hearty lot, traveling long distances in short times that tests physical endurance. I can appreciate that many choose a standard seat for all the reasons you noted. However, may I point out that many riders are not interested in simply piling on miles. Yes, some riders like to do that, but others prefer to ramble the roads, drinking in the scenery as they go. It's not clear what Teresa has in mind for herself, but your input will help her clarify this point. My long hauls on a cruiser incorporate securing my gear in such a way that it provides the back support that is useful (as you note). The addition of a windshield and rider seat back support can achieve the same thing. Good physical condition is also a help as strong stomach muscles, which support the back, makes a difference! I'll simply add that my cruiser is comfortable and I don't stop more frequently because of the bike set-up, but because I think it's important to rest the mind from the road. Mental breaks are an important consideration for any level of rider, Iron Butt or otherwise. Thank you for giving us all more food for thought!) Monday, September 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Janine, Monday, September 4 Even more for Marna who received negative input from friends and family: Please don't let these "well meaning" folks put you off. I have been there . . . a fellow in my office constantly brings me, as well as other riders, copies of gloom and doom articles. He says it is to educate us about why we should not ride. As a motorcyclist that walked away from an accident that killed 1 man in a full size van and the other fellow in the other car was airlifted, I say just do what you learned in class. As time goes by, you should find yourself paying more attention to other drivers both on your bike as well as in your car. Riding a bike makes you apply the concept of defensive driving. Yes, there are a lot of accidents, but no one seems to put as much gloom and doom on car accidents as they do when a motorcycle is involved. Please just thank these folks for their concern and let them know you will be safety conscious on your bike. It is not a death wish! Susan (note from Mama: thanks for sharing! There were over 23 million motorcycle riders in the U.S. as of 2003 . . . there are NOT over 23 million motorcycle accidents every year . . . most of us make it through a year just fine. One has to question those that focus in only on the negatives . . . how DO they climb into their car every day and make it down the road?!) Those 'friends' & hubby were gruesome, not congratulatory: I sense the green-eyed monster, especially if they are guys who haven't the guts to ride. Jem (note from Mama: it's hard to say where the nay-saying stems from . . . it would be a shame if jealousy is fueling the negative commentary as that truly is a poor reason to try to dash someone else's dream.) Monday, September 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Copperredd, Or is how you look on the bikes when you sit on them? One chooses a specific motorcycle for all sorts of reasons and one of them is the looks/style. I'll simply add that I will probably never really favor the look of my BMW gas tank, but the handling characteristics of the bike are so superior in my opinion that I can live with it easily! Also, when I'm bombing down a twisty road I know my confidence in the bike is high, I demonstrate good competence in handling the bike, and that together makes me look good! Maybe it's the big smile I have plastered on my face! Personally, I wouldn't go messing with the tank on a particular bike, but that doesn't mean you can't explore options at the dealer! Ask! 883's did gain a reputation for being top heavy, but in
2004, Harley started taking measures to lower the seat height and center
of gravity on the Sportys and continue to work on that. Resale value is a
fickle thing. It is dependent on so many factors, one of the biggest ones
being whether there are buyers at the time you wish to sell. That is hard
to predict but as you really are planning to ride your chosen bike for a
number of years, I wouldn't make this my chief concern. Are you a
collector or a rider?!
Mama Monday, September 4 More for Leah, who has found a bike but is unsure whether to buy now or wait till Spring: Get that bike that is available in your price range now.
This is nearing the end of normal biking weather (particularly where you
live) and people are selling. Come spring, people will be thinking
of riding again and this seller may be able to sell his currently
available bike to someone else for more money. Getting it now would
also give you all winter to become familiar with the bikes inner
workings to learn normal maintenance, get any problems fixed, and make
lists of what you may wish to add or change before riding weather comes
around again. Granted, I am a bit impulsive at times, but I
wouldnt pass it up if that is what you want get it now. And
good riding to you! Hey Leah, your situation sounds similar to mine is some ways, because I bought my first bike late in the season. Here's my 2’, having been there. Your letter didn't say if you've taken the MSF course yet, but if not, my advice would be to take it [note: Leah did take a course], then buy a used little beater bike that's in good working order, low center of gravity, preferably with a higher CC than the course bikes, but not as big as the 650 (this time of year there should be lots of them in the classifieds). Buy the beater bike because as a newbie, YOU WILL FALL DOWN. Kudos if you don't, but it's highly likely you will, especially doing slow-speed maneuvers. It will really do a number on your confidence to see your Dream Machine covered in scars and bruises. If it's a beater that you know you're not going to have for very long, you probably won't get so upset. Besides, you'd probably spend the same amount of money fixing up your V-Star's battle wounds as you would on a little beater. Spend a couple of weeks buzzing around in parking lots and quiet roads. Then, do some digging down the grapevine to find, ideally, a police officer (if there's anyone who can ride, it's them), or someone with a lot of experience whom you trust, who is willing to volunteer to tutor you for a day or two and teach you all the tips and tricks they didn't teach you on the course. It may be better if this person is not your significant other, as you'll likely be too self-conscious to learn anything. I was just tutored yesterday, and I went from buzzing only around the driveway scared s**tless, to riding with something akin to confidence down the actual road, in actual traffic, in ONE afternoon. You should've seen the look on my boyfriend's face when we pulled up, me on my own bike! I don't know who was more proud, me or him. As for the V-Star, if you can afford to buy two bikes, go for it! Seeing it parked in your garage every day will motivate the snot out of you to become a better rider so you can graduate to your dream bike. If you don't end up buying your friend's bike, don't worry. You WILL find another. There are lots of them out there. And who knows- your friend's bike may not sell this year, and you can buy it in the spring. If you already have a bike (the aforementioned beater), you'll have a better idea of what you should be looking for, and you won't be tempted to buy the first V-Star 650 you see, because you won't be in such a hurry to buy one RIGHT NOW!!!. You'll be able to take your time finding one that's in the best condition for a price you agree with. Then, in the spring, take a refresher course on the beater, get familiar with riding again, and sell it. Adopt your Dream Machine, then ride on sister, ride on. Nicole (note from Mama: ok, the flip-side view . . . taking more time to think it through if there are real concerns about buying this bike so quickly. My feeling is that if the purchase feels rushed, then step back and wait.) Monday, September 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Darlene, I heard from one reader who noted that QLink is offering
slightly discounted pricing and a longer warranty period than what a
CFMoto dealer might have. I'd check that out carefully. If you are
interested to see the dealer network for CFMoto, go to www.cfmoto.cn
and check the US distribution network.
Mama Tuesday, September 5 For Copperredd who is looking at HDs but concerned about some of the larger tank sizes: I have similar dimensions (height and weight) and have been riding a HD Low Rider for 2 years now. I had started riding on a Buell Blast, so the upgrade in size was about double. The size of the bike (and tank) is something you get used to quickly with practice and miles under your belt. I still absolutely love my bike. I often refer to it as it my hot bowl of porridge - it's just right! Michele E. (note from Mama: what a fun analogy!) I had thought I wanted a Low Rider, too. However, the thing that put me off was not the tank, but the width of the engine and chassis. I found the Sportster's narrower frame and engine a lot more comfortable in that respect, and I'm 6', so a shorter person must find it even more of a stretch on a big twin. Sportsters tend not to keep the higher resale value that other Harleys do, but they're not that bad, either. I haven't tried the Sportster Lows, but I've never found my 1200 Custom top heavy. I think that's just another Sportster myth, like that they're "chick" bikes. I see way many more guys on them than I do women! Li in Florida (note from Mama: thanks for adding some interesting details!) From Copperredd: first let me say a loud THANK YOU - for taking your own time to help all of us. People like you are needed more and more! [you are welcome and I agree!] I am a rider. There are no HD shops where I live so I have to travel about two hours to get to any of them. That is the main reason it has been so hard finding the "right" bike for me. I am really interested in finding a bike that I can keep for a couple/few years, I do tend to get sentimental :-) I know that this is going to sound to funny, but with the gas tank issue, it was more the size of the tank and being worried that it looked way larger than the 883's, all I have ridden before was the "smaller" tanked bikes and I was/am worried about not being able to handle the bike as well with that large of a tank. I wondered if having that large of a tank between your legs really mattered. From what you are saying though, I will get use to whatever I am riding right? Thanks again for all your time listening to me try to describe my worries, so glad to have you on my side! Trying to explain this or even talk to the HD dealers in my part of the world (Panhandle of FL) as a women is a real task . . . the men here seem to think that women should be ridin' not driven'. Copperredd (note from Mama: we have heard that at some dealers it's hard to get salespeople to tune into women and if the question is not usually asked by men, they see it as a woman's concern, when in fact, it's just a question! You have a legitimate question . . . does a larger tank affect handling, and yes it does, but can it be learned . . . yes . . . as I often counsel, no matter how new or experienced you are, any time you choose a new motorcycle to ride, it's extremely important to take that bike to a safe practice zone and put yourself through all the drills so that becoming one with the bike begins with the basics. One thing I like about the HD site is that a 360Ί rotating view can be found (the 2007 models have the "Walk Around" view, with zoom!) and I click through the rotation looking at the positioning of everything and imagine the rider on the bikes. Depending on your sense of urgency in buying your next bike, I'm wondering where the next big motorcycle show will be in your general area . . . I don't see that the 2006-2007 winter schedule is posted anywhere, but these shows are a great place to sit on lots of bikes and take notes and make decisions! That may be worth waiting for and traveling to!) Tuesday, September 5 Hi VTwin Mama, Me on the other hand, well it is taking awhile to get my confidence up but I know it will get there once I learn and practice everything. I got the basics from the coarse but having some trouble in the real world situations. I have little confidence in leaning in curves still so I take it slow but I'm getting better, until this moment: came up a hill and I knew at the top of it that it went back down on the other side a little steeper . . . so I geared down to 3rd when I got to the top, then I was going down the hill and it has a sharp turn waiting at the bottom. I got a little worried about picking up speed so I pulled the clutch in, downshifted to 2nd, and used a bit of back brake. Once I got around the curve I took my foot off the brake and released the clutch and my back tire begun to skid. Freaked me out so I pulled over to the side of the road and put in neutral to let some cars pass while I caught my breath. My husband tried to explain to me that I was in the wrong gear and should have stayed in 3rd. I'm having a hard time understanding the whole gear ratio thing especially going down a incline where you need to slow down (not stop) at the bottom. In my brain, I think if I release the throttle and I only use the brakes to slow my bike it will just stall or that it still would have made my back tire skid. Can you explain to me what I should have done? And any suggestions on videos or books on learning to ride in the real world for newbies. I can't seen to find a lot of newbie learning in Ontario, Canada. Thanks, Susan, Lacking Confidence Dear Susan, I'll start with the correct technique. You see a sharp turn, you slow down, click down and fully engage your chosen gear, choosing a comfortable speed within that gear range with your throttle. Then you counter steer the handlebar to pivot the bike around the turn, use a bit of throttle and/or back brake as needed, straighten out the bike, then smoothly throttle up again. Rear tires skid out for several reasons. One, the rider jams on the rear brake in a desperate attempt to slow the bike down. Two, the power transfer to the rear drive is suddenly changed and is not smooth . . . i.e. if you're cruising in third gear and just click into second without slowing down first, your engine will immediately slow down the bike, but the sudden change in power can kick the rear tire out. From your description, you clicked down to the gear you wanted but then elected not to engage that gear before entering the curve. So, effectively, you glided through the curve with no power to the rear drive and no idea of the power that would be engaged once again when you let the clutch out. I would like you to go back to a big empty parking lot with a good straight run section for more practice. First, get up into second gear and then, letting off the throttle completely, let the bike slow down naturally so you can see how slow the bike will go before you feel the imminent stall. As you feel the stall coming on, give that bike some smooth throttle to see how much responsive power you actually have. Now, do the same in third gear. You'll find the bike will be more responsive in second, while in third, that throttle-up will feel more mushy. This is why we start in 1st gear from a stop. The gears, in succession, bring us into a range of speed as needed. So, if we click up in gear too soon, or throttle the wrong gear for the speed, we get mushy response; if we click down in gear without bleeding off speed, the engine does it for you but jolts the bike, setting up a moment of jitter. Your husband is right that you should have been in gear when you negotiated the turn . . . perhaps third gear would have been fine, but as a newer rider, it was ok to want to slow down to second, but engage the gear next time so you are powering through the curve. Because this was essentially a slower maneuver, I think you might like the Ride Like a Pro DVD . . . this series of drills and lessons helps a rider correlate the throttle, brakes, clutch feathering techniques, and countersteer for smooth handling of turns, weaves and curves. If you would like to read a book, you'll find them also on my Education Center page, with links to reviews by other readers! Take heart . . . smooth gearing up and down, especially
in turns and curves, does take practice, but if you keep at it, you'll
learn the handling characteristics of your motorcycle and gain the
confidence you seek!
Mama Tuesday, September 5 More for Jana who is looking at a Ridley and a Honda Shadow 600 and getting s/o static: I had trouble learning to use a clutch
in the beginning too, it just took practice. Now I wouldn't give up
shifting for anything, partly because of the control it gives me, but
especially when I need to bleed off speed -- like going downhill on a
curve. (I've always wondered how creeping/slow riding is handled without
having the clutch element involved?? It's hard to picture.) Even now,
three years later, I still have people suggesting I get a Ridley. Talk
about water under the bridge. I still have my share of riding concerns,
but shifting isn't one of them. I don't even think about it anymore. It
gets built into your riding after a while. Tuesday, September 5 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Nicole, Tuesday, September 5 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Ron, If more is needed, determine if dropping the actual bike frame would bring the foot pegs into dangerously close position to the ground on higher speed curves . . . scraping of pegs is no fun in my estimation. If you think you've got the clearance, then here are some ideas to lower the bike. Visit this page on the Old Bike Barn . . . I'm guessing these shocks are the same length as the originals, but I'm not sure. Shorter shocks would lower the bike and there are services that will custom shorten shocks if you can't find shorter ones. Otherwise, it's possible an independent bike service shop could take an L-shape bracket so that the top of the shock bolts into the bracket, the bracket bolts back into the original shock bolt hole, and the "L" will drop the bike down. In some cases, the top bolt hole for the shock can be redrilled, thus repositioning the shock so that the bike drops down. A slighter lower profile tire might help, but I'd be
super careful here on wheel/frame clearance and potential shift in
speedometer/odometer readings.
Mama Tuesday, September 5 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Annie, Tuesday, September 5 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear RedStreak, Wednesday, September 6 VTwin Mama Reviews Biker Ally Magazine The July/August 2000 issue was Biker Ally's debut into the world of women's motorcycle magazines and editor/publisher Renate "Rain" Nietzold has been forging forward ever since! I've been reading this excellent source since 2002 and have now written a review of Biker Ally for your consideration . . . it really is a "must have" magazine! Wednesday, September 6 VTwin Mama Reviews Road Runner Magazine There's just soooo much to love about Road Runner: Motorcycle Cruising & Touring magazine, and I enjoyed talking with Christa Neuhauser at the AMA Women & Motorcycling Conference. Read my Road Runner review and take advantage of the discount extended to VTwin Mama site readers. The long road is calling, even if it's for next year! Wednesday, September 6 Hi Petra, We visited Yellowstone and Grand Tetons, WY. We saw Arches, Capitol Reef, Cedar Breaks, Zion, Bryce and Pipe Springs in UT. We stayed at the north and south rims of the Grand Canyon in AZ. We drove over the Hoover Dam between NV and AZ. We drove through the Petrified Forest, the Painted Desert, and the Four Corners in AZ. We saw as much as we could between parks. We climbed in and out of the Mesa Verde on CO. Our elevation at home is 775'. We were at elevations of more than 10,300' at Cedar Breaks in UT and Wolf Creek Pass in CO. The "Vulcan Twins" were up to the challenge and had no problems in the high elevations. On our way home, we visited Dodge City, KS and Lake of the Ozarks, MO. It was good to see green again as we came east. I think the best ride (but short) was the Wind River Canyon south of Thermopolis, WY. Boy, I wish I'd have had a helmet camera!!! Next time, we're headed east, or south, or north. 'Course, maybe we could go work in Yellowstone for a summer!?!? The bikes would definitely have to go with us. Love your site and newsletter. Bev from IL Dear Bev, Wednesday, September 6 Dear VTwin Mama, The second day of the riding portion of my course wasn't pretty, but I managed not to clobber myself. : ) My turns were still wider than they should have been (my figure 8s looked nothing like 8s!), but I really focused on turning my head and leaning into the turn. When it came to the test, I only lost 3 points during the figure 8 exercise (put my foot down once) -- I didn't go outside the lines at all! I lost 8 other points elsewhere in the test, which means I passed! That was Saturday, the same day I picked up my new bike, so I spent Sunday and Labor Day with my boyfriend practicing U-turns on a wide, deserted street in an industrial area of town. Fortunately, he's very patient and I think I'm getting it (I don't take the whole width of the street to make my U-turn now), even though I still have a lot of work to do. Thanks again for all the encouragement! Road Princess Dear Road Princess, Thursday, September 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Considering the circumstances, our injuries were fairly minor. My boyfriend had some minor road rash, and he was back on his bike about 10 days later. I have a broken elbow with more intensive road rash on my forearm and palm and wrist. The road rash could have been prevented. I was not wearing gloves, nor a leather jacket, just a long sleeve shirt. I got lazy and complacent in the heat of summer. I know better too because I'm an avid road cyclist as well. I've also gone down on my bicycle a few times. It will be a while before I will be physically able to ride a motorcycle or a bicycle. I will have to go to physical therapy for my elbow to work properly again. I've gone through a whole range of emotions because of this accident. The hardest has been forgiving myself. I know that I should have been better protected. Lucky for me that it wasn't worse. I know in the future I will wear a full-face helmet (I was wearing a 3/4 helmet), jacket and gloves and of course boots and perhaps more protective pants than jeans. Right now, I'm dealing with the new skin on my forearm and wrist. I've been using live aloe vera gel, 100% cocoa butter and vitamin e. I'm interested in preventing scarring as well as encouraging the pigment to come back. Right now the skin is a bright pink and very sensitive. The nurses told me the road rash was similar to a 2nd degree burn. Is there anyone out there who has suffered from road rash that can share how long it took for her skin to return to normal, what products are good use, etc. . . . any other useful information on dealing with this? Thanks, Michelle Dear Michelle, I'm sure during these last 5 weeks, you have been cycling through the 5 classic stages of grief. Denial (this isn't happening to me!)Anger (why is this happening to me?) Bargaining (I promise I'll be a better person if...) Depression (I don't care anymore) Acceptance (I'm ready for whatever comes) One of the most useful statements I've read about them is that they don't necessarily work through our minds one stage at a time . . . a person may experience some or all of the stages and actually bounce back and forth. In the forgiving process, you're tuning in to how you feel about the accident and making new choices for the future. Although it's said often enough . . . time will help you come to terms . . . I don't believe we've ever had postings at this site on specific road rash healing timelines and/or products. Although I did find (of course) a number of product suggestions on the Internet, directly related to motorcycle and mountain bike riding, overall it was suggested that the medical staff was in the best position to advise you. Are the products you are currently using the ones recommended by medical people? I did read in several places that emu oil is highly effective in promoting repair and reducing scarring and that making sure you are taking vitamins with B-complex, C, Zinc, A and E does make a difference. As I have never had to deal with road rash (knock on
wood), let's turn this over to readers who have been through the process
and hear about combinations they chose and what they learned about healing
road rash.
Mama Thursday, September 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Lenny, For future maintenance and servicing, consider getting a
service manual for your motorcycle. An aftermarket version is about $25
and online sources can be found on my Education
Center page. Happy wrenching!
Mama Thursday, September 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Mary, There is no doubt that the pre-2004 Sportsters were widely heralded as top heavy. They had some of the highest seat heights, which loosely correlates to a bike's center of gravity, as compared to other make/models at that time. HD has made improvements by lowering the seat height on standard models and introducing an expanded line of "Lows." To get a sense of center of gravity, sit on your chosen bikes and lean them a bit side-to-side and roll them back and forward. Because the bikes are at different dealerships (!), sit on several models at each dealership to fine-tune your feeling for that center. If you concentrate, you'll feel the mass of the engine (where the center of gravity is) and understand what I'm talking about! A lower back problem does give pause for concern. One low cost solution is to use a back support belt like the one seen here on the WebBikeWorld. Another solution is to incorporate a rider seat back pad or to choose a new seat with that incorporated . . . here is a Corbin page to give you an idea of what I mean. You should also check your reach to hand and foot controls to ensure you are not curving your back unnecessarily (solutions are available for modifications). Windshields can also aid in taking away the wind pressure from your body. Changes (parts and installation) should be negotiated into the purchase price of the motorcycle (readers have noted it's cheaper to do it then rather than wait till you have the bike). Happy shopping!
Mama Thursday, September 7 Dear VTwin Mama, I just want to thank you and all those that have offered techniques and real life experiences for newbies like myself. You are truly a breath of fresh air. I ride every chance I get now. Thanks so much, Pat Dear Pat, My hearty congratulations to you for using the Internet
to find solutions . . . and glad you landed at VTM! I can just see your
smile as you typed "I ride every chance I get now." WOW! I'm
soooo proud of you! So, when do we get to see a picture of you and your
VStar?!
Mama Thursday, September 7 For Road Princess who passed her course, choose her bike, and is on her way: Congratulations! Good job on passing the course. I bought the Ride Like a Pro DVD, too. Its worth the investment. Please keep us posted on your progress with the Sporty 1200. Mary (note from Mama: Amen!) Friday, September 8 For Michelle who survived an accident and is working on healing road rash: I feel your pain, literally, sounds like you have the same
type of road rash and injuries that I had after a crash a few years ago. I
wish you all the best in your healing process, you will get there and be okay. Friday, September 8 For Future Rider who didn't like her BRC and I noted the NRC, maybe in a neighboring state: I just saw this post and I want to let you know that some states won't honor a MSF class from another state. I believe Maryland is one of them. The rider will have to take a class in the state they live in because these classes offer waivers on the DMV test and if they took the class out of state, they can't go back to their state and get the license. I belong to a motorcycle message board and this subject has been bought up a few times, so tell "Future Rider" to check with the MSF course or DMV to see if they will honor an out of state class before he/she wastes her time and money to find out they don't. Thanks! Doreen from NJ (note from Mama: wet noodle to me for not adding that cautionary note. In looking closer at Maryland's laws, successful completion of a Maryland course qualifies a rider for the "M" license . . . a course taken out-of-state, does not. While the ultimate "M" is the goal, a rider can take a course and then practice with a learner's permit and take a standard DMV test. In Maryland, a course is not a prerequisite to getting the "M" . . . but check your own state on this one! I will endeavor to be more concise in future questions like this!) Friday, September 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kit, I can't find anything in group riding hand signals, like these shown on the Ride My Own site, that correlates to the one you describe. So now I'm perplexed. The forming of the circle seems to be too deliberate to be random. I'll simply add that if you take this hand/finger grouping and relax it and flip it over, it's like one used in meditation. Readers, has anyone seen this before and know if there
is intent behind the position?
Mama Friday, September 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Little Rock, Maintenance at dealers is usually more labor than parts, and with labor at dealers ranging from $60-80/hour (approximately), you can see more clearly what that $125 cost is all about. I suggest that you have the dealer do the service, and when you call to set the appointment, ask the service person exactly what they'll be doing, how long this service usually takes, and for future reference, what their standard hourly labor charge is. You may also wish to double-check your warranty policy . . . if I recall correctly, if something major goes wrong with the motorcycle down the line, and you cannot show proven records of recommended maintenance, you may be in an uphill battle for coverage. Remember, motorcycles are mechanical beasties and require care, and in the worst case scenario, you may have a lemon bike on your hands (rare, but it happens). My 6,000 mile check for my BMW was $230, but a well
maintained BMW can last 300,000 miles, so I consider the investment well
worth it. I'll add that as this is my 4th motorcycle, and I wrenched on
all three previous used bikes myself (at maintenance intervals as
prescribed in the service
manuals), I'm finally tired of doing it (other than standard checks
along the way).
Mama Friday, September 8 Hi Petra, After about 20 miles of parking lot practice, I graduated to small residential streets in my neighborhood. Lots of stop signs, slowing for turns, up & downhill starts (I live in Colorado, nothing here is straight or flat for long!) . . . really a newbie rider's dream practice area. A few "oh, holy crap!" moments, but the bike and I remained upright through it all. I built on skills until I was starting to get bored and hubby encouraged me to take a longer, higher speed ride that he used for practice as well. The roundtrip route from our house is about 16 miles total with a few traffic lights, railroad tracks to cross, and big sweeping curves with room to get the bike up to 40-45mph and practice countersteering, only one lane of traffic in each direction and some gorgeous mountain views as a reward. Did that run for the first time the middle of last week, and while a bit scary, it was a blast with hubby riding proudly behind me and keeping the evil tailgaters away. Came away from the run with enough confidence to sign up for the MSF again. Did the practice run again this past weekend and collected my first half-dozen motorcycle waves! Even got brave enough to wave back to the last couple rather than simply nodding *grin* I've spent the last two days doing the MSF class, and (tada!) came away with my coveted M and a not-too-shabby score on the riding evaluation at that. While I'm still not ready to "play in traffic," as a rider co-worker calls commuting, I know now that I CAN do it when I am ready. I told the MSF coach about your site and suggested that he check it out and give the address to anyone looking for more insight, support and advice - particularly to folks like me who didn't make it through the BRC the first time 'round. Everyone's shared experiences really made a difference in my ability to get through the tough stuff and keep going. Thanks again for your support! Mandy Dear Mandy, My parting words in response to your original letter were, "Someday you'll be writing a letter that you've got your "M" and are on the road with confidence. What a joyous day that will be!" And here you are, doing just that, and in just 1 1/2 months! I am sooooo jazzed for you! And you've got your first biker waves (received and given) . . . isn't that the most awesome feeling?! I appreciate that you noted my website to the course instructor . . . I am in the process of contacting every U.S. course provider, pointing out the value of my site and asking that they include it on an info sheet for students or ordering free brochures or business cards. It's slow going, but I've started with the southern state providers as many northern states will soon be closing classes . . . but I'll contact them next Spring. As you noted in your original letter, hubby dearest started as a newbie when you did, picked up skills a bit quicker, but I'm equally happy that the journey is something you are sharing together. I also know that between the two of you, you'll be reviewing skills, techniques, safety and confidence . . . understanding that riding a motorcycle is a life-long pursuit of learning . . . and it's learning and joy that keep us young at heart! My best wishes on your next planned steps . . . not only
CAN YOU DO IT, you ARE DOING IT!
Mama Dear Petra, This quote has had special meaning to me and has guided me through a recently transforming experience. Thanks to the support from sites like yours, I have grown as a motorcyclist. My Suzuki SV650 and I have just finished the Lake Michigan Circle Tour, amassing more than 1,200 miles solo, through scenic, remote, and challenging roads that sent me through IL, IN, MI and WI. If your readers are interested, I kept a travel blog about the experience as this was my first "long" trip after a more than 20 year absence from riding a motorcycle. Thank you for all the great work that you do to support and encourage motorcyclists, especially women. Sharon in Chicago Dear Sharon, Monday, September 11 A Greeting from M/C Filters, a new advertiser Dear Mama, Best fit: Worst fit: I see more women riders than ever before and believe that they will continue to increase in numbers. I also believe more women will be doing their own maintenance and repairs, thus my decision to advertise M/C Filters on your site. That, and as your home page says "men welcome" . . . I started M/C Filters because filter changes are the most important and easiest maintenance that can be performed and I wanted to offer only quality choices to those who choose to 'DIY'. I've done the research and believe the brands I carry are the best available. Great site- keep up the good work! Mark, M/C Filters, http://www.mcfilters.com Dear Mark, The "men welcome" at the top tended to float
in and out of the message as I sought to find the correct balance in
font/color/placement but I'm satisfied that the balance has now been
achieved. Thank you for sharing more about yourself and the challenges you
have faced over the years . . . they chronicle many of the concerns women
have as well and everyone who cares and shares is welcome at VTwin Mama!
Mama Monday, September 11 For Kit who had a question about a hand signal from another rider: I don't know if this has any relevance, but the symbol Kit describes sounds just like one used in scuba diving, both to ask if your buddy is ok, and to signal that you are ok, except upside down. Perhaps a similar meaning was intended by the rider? Michelle (note from Mama: a possibility!) Maybe it was a signal for a
pothole warning ahead for the rider behind him??? Monday, September 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Brian, Monday, September 11 Dear VTwin Mama, After dumping the bike on stopping, I came up with a technique to help me. I call it the Power Twist, and have described it on my webpage: http://www.suzilla.org/bike.htm. Taller riders have no real need for such things, although those riding a really heavy bike may find it helpful. SuZilla Dear SuZilla, Monday, September 11 Good Morning VTwin Mama, Also, I once asked you about how to pick up a 'dropped bike' and the video was priceless. Just yesterday a friend of mine dropped her Harley at he stop sign and she just picked it right up after I showed her what to do! Having a blast! Susan Dear Susan, Recently
Ann penned a response to another letter about seating position which I
found very interesting in that it talks about back stress and why some
riders may have more of this. I included my thoughts on how cruiser-style
riders can look at necessary modifications that make a difference. See if
these suggestions don't help!
Mama Monday, September 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Jean, Tuesday, September 12 Dear VTwin Mama, Also, where can I get the video everyone is raving about? I need help, and in case no one noticed, most men are not the place to get it! Billie Dear Billie, According to this page of the American Lifan site, that LF250 is 355 lbs, which puts it about 50 lbs. heavier than other motorcycles in its class, like the Honda Rebel, Virago 250 and Suzuki GZ250. I think the video you are referring to is the oft
mentioned Ride
Like a Pro . . . several learning DVD/videos offered by Jerry and
Donna Palladino, from the very basics, to learning slow maneuvers, and one
on street survival. Highly recommended by readers at the VTwin Mmaa site!
We wish you well on your next steps!
Mama Tuesday, September 12 Dear VTwin Mama, Also I am a vertically challenge rider (4'10" in height ). I have a 883L Sportster and it wasn't low enough. We found a lowering kit from Hellbent Hogs in Tennessee and put it on the bike and it works. I also had to change the stock seat to a Brawler seat, which also helped. My feet finally touch the ground! and I can ride my Sportster safely. Girlee Rider Dear Girlee Rider, I know I've had interesting input on decals that go
beyond the basics, but these letters are scattered throughout my site. So,
if you go to the bottom of my Home Page, you'll find a Google search tool
. . . click on vtwinmama.com search, then type in decal, and you'll find
the pages where previous letters are posted! One suggestion was the StreetGlo
site, where you can search to your heart's content!
Mama Tuesday, September 12 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kay, Tuesday, September 12 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Sherri, Often times the fringe is incorporated with a control
cover, and then it becomes specific to the make/model bike. According to
this MotoLeather
site page, you can get just about any color with any length of fringe,
mix and match, and although it says Harley, it looks like they hand make
them to fit your exact specifications! Yes, they have pink and purple!
Mama Tuesday, September 12 Dear VTwin Mama, I want a HD, and I am really torn between a 1200L Sportster, or a Dyna Lowrider. I am not going to be taking any really long trips, not more than 200 miles or so, but I don't know what my deciding factors are. I cannot go and rent any bikes (there are no places near me) the closest - two hours away - requires you to have ridden a "heavy cruising" bike for at least a year before renting to you. (I don't want to lie to them either). Any suggestions would be really helpful. Copperredd Dear Copperredd, One nice feature of the HD site is that you can call up to three different models and have the picture and specifications shown in side-by-side columns. So, I called up the specs on the 2006 1200 Sporty, then click on Tools For Ownership: Compare Motorcycles, and choose the Dyna Lowrider. Here's what I saw. The Dyna has a slightly lower seat height (makes a difference for shorter riders), a bit more ground clearance (can be a factor if you're an aggressive curve leaner), a tad larger gas tank (0.2 gal isn't much!), is about 95 lbs. heavier (useful for windy days), the Twin Cam engine (latest engine), has 1442cc vs. 1199cc, has fuel injection (great for changing altitude riding), has a 6th gear, and a tach as standard equipment. The "style look" of course if highly individual, but I like the slightly longer wheel base and length, the bike doesn't look as scrunched up, and I like the low-slung seat look. Of course, then there is the price. That Sporty is about 60% the cost of the Dyna. Honestly, I don't know how to narrow it down further for
you. You're going to have to decide on the ratio of the fit vs. the
features vs. the price.
Mama Wednesday, September 13 For Kay who is looking to lower her '06 1200L 2": I'm just under 5' tall and can touch the ground perfectly on my 1200 since I replaced the standard seat with a LePera Bare Bones solo seat and installed 11" Progressive shocks in the rear. Attached is a photo of the bike! Pat (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Wednesday, September 13 For Sherri who is looking for lever covers/fringe in a better color selection range: Here is a great company that can help you. They have all sort of colors and lengths for fringe. http://www.brokenarrowleather.com/. Check them out and see if they have what you want. Oldehawg (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Wednesday, September 13 For Copperredd who is deciding between a 1200L and Dyna Lowrider: Hello! I too was torn between choosing a Sportster or another model but after a test ride between a 1200 Sporty and a Dyna LR (5 speed 2005), the extra 40% in cost was well worth it. The low seat, nice center of gravity, and fuel injection sold me! I'd never ridden prior to this year and purchased the Dyna in June. I've since logged in about 2,000 miles and have been loving every minute of it! Congratulations on passing your test and good luck with your decision Copperredd! Kimberly (note from Mama: thanks for sharing!) Wednesday, September 13 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Debby, |
