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Traffic 2004
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2002 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Shorty600, Super congratulations on your new milestone -- it's a biggee! Mama Wednesday, March 20 Dear VTwin Mama, To start off, you might want to wear one of those red x's so you can concentrate on your riding skills first. Once you've mastered the route, your confidence in yourself will allow you to shed the x and rely on your quick responses. Then you can start changing your usual route, just for the fun of it, maybe even taking the long way or the scenic route. Once you get started you'll never look back. I wish you happy and safe riding. :-) Denny Dear VTwin Mama, As far as the ride itself goes, check out a good safe route beforehand. Try to avoid anything that you are currently uncomfortable with. I say currently, because each ride into the office will bring more confidence and less apprehension about certain traffic situations. I try to leave early to avoid the worst of the traffic. Also, if you just get on the road and enjoy the ride (of course, remember to ride defensively) it will be a piece of cake. Don't try to weave in and out of traffic like some of the more experienced riders do. Pick a good lane and ride steady. I am somewhat of an aggressive driver in a cage. But, on my bike, I am into smelling the roses and enjoying the ride. I'm never in such a big hurry that I have to do anything that would put me further in harms way. Take your time and you'll have no problems at all. Shadowlady See Shorty600, Tuesday, March 26 Dear VTwin Mama, As for Hope... good luck with your 600 shadow. I really love mine! Insurance: I also have found that Progressive Insurance had the best quote -- I live in Indiana and my insurance was $190 for the year. Heads up, Spring is here! Shorty600 Dear Shorty600, Dear VTwin Mama, I live about 25 miles from where I work and the weather is great now in the east and traffic is a little lighter due to people on vacation and I want to ride to work. I have my instructor's phone number and I called her to ask and she said, no you are not ready, my husband said the same thing. What should my expectations be at this time? I am getting more comfortable with speed, I can ride 45 to 55 mph (not including twists). When leaning I am more comfortable leaning right than left. I turn well, stop and have good clutch control. I just do not know where my expectations should be at this time and where I should ride. Need suggestions from you and other mama's. Angela Dear Angela, I think your instructor and husband's concern is about traffic. You see, the fact is that while you're mastering your actual control of the bike, it's the other idiot on the road that could put you in position beyond your experience level. Could you handle someone pulling out in a turn in front of you because they didn't see you? What about the car that decides you're not going fast enough and plays bumper tag with you? And then there's the situation where a car in another lane swerves to avoid something and comes into your lane. See what I mean?! When riding to work, when everyone else is trying to get to work, tempers are short, fuses blow easily, because everyone is just trying to get from Point A to Point B as fast as possible. I would advocate that you do your practice traffic work when it's still lighter -- like Sunday mornings, etc. You need to hone your ability to look in all directions all the time and completely anticipate and locate the blind intersections, the tight lanes, and such. My general advice is to get at least 500 miles of road practice under your belt before you tackle the heavier traffic. It sounds like a lot, but it will fly by quickly, especially if you're singing your song! VTwin Mama sisters -- what do you think? Mama Wednesday, August 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Definitely get in more practice, especially lighter traffic experience. I remember well when I first rode my bike to work and I had more than 500 miles of experience. It's a whole different ball game when you get out on the road with so many automobiles. In fact, I've now been riding for two years and as soon as the college classes begin, I won't ride to work. Too many young drivers trying to get to class on time in addition to workers! Not for me! My idea of fun is to have a two lane road all by myself. lol Sharon (note from Mama: Amen -- experience is needed to better handle those cage drivers!) I'm 41yrs old and purchase my first bike a 750 Virago last year and rode it around the neighborhood. This June I took the motorcycle safety course and got the nerve up to ride on the road with the cars. My next goal was to get up the nerve to ride it to work. I'm lucky and live only 13 miles from work and also work on the weekend when traffic is low. There are several routes I can take to work. The fastest is to take the route to get on the interstate for a few miles, I always take in my car (don't know when I'll get the nerve up on my bike). At first when I started riding my bike to work on the weekend I spent a lot of time at stoplights and at a big intersection where there is a shopping center. The two days of the week when I work and drive my car I started checking out different roads on my way home and found a route where I missed the big intersection and some of the stoplights. It takes me longer to get to work on the weekend, but I don't care -- I'm on my bike. I rode my bike to work once on a weekday because I was getting off work early before the heavy traffic. I was taking my regular bike route and notice more traffic than I had expected and thinking everyone else must have got off work early too. Everything was going ok until I got the light where I needed to turn left which isn't difficult because of the turning lane and also the light gives green turn arrow. I had the green turn arrow and no one behind me I glanced in my mirrors. As I was turning the green arrow turned yellow and as I straighten my bike up and gave get more gas, in my mirrors was a grill of a brown SUV. He tailed me for a while. The next light was green where I turn right and thought good, I didn't need to stop and could make the right, but of course I think he thought that light was going to turn red on him, because before I could turn completely out of my lane he was zipping around me. I think I'll keep riding on the weekends to work and riding the country roads near my house on weekdays after work. Angela, you don't want to be a nervous wreck when you get to work because everyone else is trapped in there car and late for work. Libby Cline (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your first-hand account about learning to ride in work-time traffic -- it's a bear and underestimating the nastiness of other drivers in a hurry is a mistake. I've been right-laned, squeezed out, shouted at and ignored, all very dangerous, not only to a beginning rider, but an experienced one as well.) Monday, August 19 Dear VTwin Mama, Congrats on getting your license!! Are you loving your Honda Shadow 600 as much as I love mine?! I would also suggest more practice with light traffic on off-days, such as Sundays. You have the basic controls down but need time for those to become effortless, as you are scanning for "the other guy" at all times. I was lucky that I was able to attempt my work commute (23 miles) relatively early as a beginner because in that 23 miles I have only two traffic lights; and they're blinking red, not even fixed! But I was (and of course, still am) plenty cautious. More practice will also make the turns fluid and effortless, and either way (left or right) will feel as easy. Hope this doesn't "rain on your parade" - you sound as you are doing really really well! Continue to practice and loving your ride! Your riding friend Holly (note from Mama: nope, the rain on the parade would be attempting to ride in traffic beyond one's experience and capabilities!) Well, congrats Angela! Hello
VTwin Mama! My name is Pam (Wind Dancer). I just received my license
also through the MSF Course here in CT. My ride is a 2000 V Star 650
Classic. I have about 6,000 miles under my belt thus far, as this is my
second season practicing/riding. I realized that although my husband's
intentions were good, he just didn't teach me the finer points of riding which
the instructors at the course did. Now I know I'm "there." I
finally have been taught all the skills I needed to ride the bike instead of
it riding me. Riding feels so much more comfortable now! And fun! I have a few suggestions, as I went
through the same thing last year (I also have a Shadow). I agree not to head out in morning traffic too soon. I have over 1500 miles on my bike and I still feel nervous going over 55 with all the nuts out there on the road. I have only been on a interstate once and hated that. I didn't like riding 70 at all. I think everyone is different in how they want to use their bikes. You need to only do what you feel comfortable doing. My boyfriend is always trying to get me to ride faster than I want to so I tell him just go -- I'll meet you there. 3 times that I have tried to do what he wanted me to do, I dumped my bike!!! I still would rather go around the block than try to make a u tune on a hwy into speeding traffic. You do what you want to do not what anyone else tells you. Just BE CAREFUL, Your friend Cathy (note from Mama: you are sooooo right -- listen to your heart while learning from others and go your own pace by understanding what's really at stake and what you have to consider besides your own skill level) I have had my license for about a month and have put roughly 1400 miles on my new VStar 650. I have gone on a few three hour (plus) rides and handled the thruway, and the expressway pretty well. I have not however ridden anywhere alone. I always have an accomplice. My husband does not want me to ride to work for all the same reasons VTWIN MAMA brought up. I am looking for another thousand miles on my bike before I ride back and forth to work. I want to feel 100% that I can get out of some fools way before getting squished. I'd rather be safe than sorry. Sharon (note from Mama: I'm with you -- no squish jobs!) Wednesday, August 21 Dear VTwin Mama, I just got the newest newsletter and read Angela's letter to you. I thought it was time to write to you about what happened to me. I have found a new drug and it's called "Suzuki Volusia 800". I am 41 years old and got my license April 8th 2002. When I learned on a little 250 Nighthawk (while taking the riding course) and then went on my much bigger bike i was petrified. I went a total of 10 miles and was sick to my stomach when arriving back home. Since then I have gone out almost every day, putting a total of 4000 miles on my new best friend. I was even brave enough to venture out on a 9 day 1700 mile trip along the Skyline Drive. I have done the "dragon" at Deal's Gap and look at every twist and turn differently from then on. The only regret...I should have done this many, many moons ago. But as you can read, I am making up for lost time in a big way. I will only stop riding when I can no longer keep the bike up and salute all the other women out there especially the ones who start late in life! YOU GO SISTERS! Andrea (note from Mama: every letter of support is a letter dear to my heart, and every shared personal story is one of inspiration -- WOW -- women riders are sooooo COOL!) Its been awhile since I've written...but I'm still an avid reader and rider! My response to Angela who wants to ride to work.....I'm a second year rider and I still don't like the idea of riding to where I work although I've done so on occasion (and take back roads, not the major highways). I agree that people are not watching the road, just aiming to get to work. Almost daily you can hear about a car and motorcycle accident during rush hour. Who needs it? People are in a hurry, or in a rage or on the phone. Just seems like too much work to me and little if any enjoyment. I ride for pleasure, fun, and to stay in one piece. My suggestion would be to get a lot of miles on the seat riding at non peak hours in all different types of roads and situations and you will eventually have those experiences that will give you the abilities you need to ride in high traffic situations. I usually know when I'm ready to ride in certain situation WHEN I don't have to ask if I'm ready to ride in certain situations; I just know. Riding safe and loving it. Shar (good point about knowing when you're ready and taking baby steps -- it's just so healthy to be a little cautious!) Monday, November 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Sarah, Monday, November 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Chris, Right laning ANYONE is illegal as far as I know, but maybe some readers have more factual, law-related information that would be useful to know. Chime in any time! Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Also, do you know the website for Americade that is held in June? Someone told me once and I couldn't write it down and now I can't think of it. Donna Dear
Donna, My suggestion is that you continue to gain riding confidence and handling skills off the highway as much as possible, and when trying highway riding again, pick times of the day when truck traffic is most likely to be the lightest (perhaps early Sunday mornings). When a truck approaches, move your bike into the farthest part of your lane away from the truck. Many experienced riders, even in group formation, will move to single file in the farthest part of the lane away from the truck! You are NOT ALONE! The Americade site is: http://tourexpo.com/04/index2.html. Mama Thursday, August 12 Hi
VTwin Mama, Ive conquered the fear of getting out of my drive way and am now enjoying the ride. I have just over 600 km (372 Miles) on my bike and am looking at putting on more. I drive it to work when it is nice out and weather permitting on weekends. I really enjoy driving in the city no matter how busy. The motorcycle training course I took sure helped for dealing at slow speeds, stopping and starting. I unfortunately do not like driving on the highway at higher speeds. The wind and the feeling of the high speed scares me. Does this fear ever go away as I get more experience? Does driving a sport bike like the GSX750F (Katana) feel that much different on the highway then say a cruiser? Thanks again. Dereck Dear
Dereck, Did you see Donna's letter in today's column? You'll see that she has the same fears! And I don't think your Katana is any better/worse a bike to alter the fact that trucks set up wind tunnels that must be addressed by the rider's handling skills. Give yourself time, as time will lessen the impact, but not necessarily ever truly make the "ohmigosh" feeling go away. I know it hasn't for me! Mama Friday, August 13 For Donna and handling big truck nerves and ensuing wind created: I still kind of brace against the tailwind of a truck passing either direction. I just got rid of my 125 Kawasaki Eliminator after taking a MSC to upgrade my license to a bigger bike. My Vulcan 500 is 150 pounds heavier and that makes quite a difference in my confidence and stability on the road. I'm still shy of interstate highways. Two weeks after getting our new bikes, we took a 1200 mile trip on them. Two lane and limited access 4-lane roads. And we're SO ready to go again. I'm 52, been riding again for the last 3 years. I ride to work a lot. VTWINMAMA - this is my first time to your website. This is terrific - just like riding! Bev from Illinois (note from Mama: isn't it fun finding a place you can share your thoughts?!?!??! Thanks for letting Donna know how you're doing it and congrats on your own riding adventure! It's nice to know we are NOT ALONE, and that includes me!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Imagine my astonishment when I was at Lowe's a couple of weeks ago and a woman came roaring up on her Yamaha R-6, no helmet, and parked in the striped zone next to a handicapped space. It certainly is the perfect size for a sport bike. I felt like a coward for not saying something . . . would the message have gotten through? Other than that, I'm proud of us. Cheers, Sarah Dear
Sarah, I consider the striped zone in parking lots to be a gray area issue. My understanding is that it is fairly well accepted that a bike can be parked there for short durations, although I don't typically use it (I park the bike in such a way that it's easy to see my bike in a traditional spot so that cars don't go gunning into the spot thinking it's empty!). Let's see if we get some more feedback from other readers on this. (note of correction: I was really off on this one . . . please see the responses for the correct information) I'm glad to hear that you're seeing more women riders out on the road and that this appears to be translating to better service in your estimation. Our numbers still hover in the 10% range of all riders currently registered . . . but by gosh, we're an IMPORTANT 10% I think! Mama For Sarah who questioned a rider parking in the striped zone next to a handicapped parking spot: (and the Ann Lander's wet noodle award to me for missing the point and just being . . . well, wrong! Yes, it happens!) Oh, Mama! Unless you have had to deal with a handicapped person, I can understand why you think it is ok to park in the striped areas next to a handicapped parking space. I can tell you from experience that trying to get a passenger from the front seat into a wheelchair and back again is next to impossible when the striped area is blocked. I have left several nasty notes on windshields for people who unknowingly parked and blocked access to the passenger seat. I hope you never have to experience helping a handicapped person, but please be aware that others do. They need the striped areas to maneuver their loved ones in and out of their car. Awareness is for everyone, whether they are riding a motorcycle or driving their family car. I still love your site and visit often. Carol Kennedy (note from Mama: thanks for not ditching me and the site (!) for such a whopping mistake!) Hi Petra- Sarah's comment and your reply about parking stuck a chord. While the area at the end of an aisle, where no cars will fit, seems to be a popular inconsequential place for motorcycle parking, I would consider the striped area next to a handicapped spot to be completely off limits. Handicapped parking spaces would be useless for many if it were not for the extra space provided between them. That space is intended to accommodate a handicapped person's transfer from a wheelchair to the vehicle and back. Normally, wheelchairs don't fit very well between cars in parking lots. In addition, it is almost an insult to block a handicapped person's access area with, of all things, a motorcycle! And on another note, please forgive me for bringing this up, but riding a motorcycle is still a dangerous sport. It is an activity that could, God forbid, lead to a severe handicap. Please ladies, I know we all want to flaunt our independence, but let's not do it inappropriately. Linda C. (note from Mama: thus, Sarah would have been well within in rights to bring this up to the offending rider, and I for one, will keep this in mind for the future when I see wrong doers.) Hi Petra, you must be swamped to not notice that Sarah says Yamaha R-6 lady parked in the HANDICAPPED space!! That striping is to allow people with wheelchairs and scooters to maneuver these aids in and out of the vehicle. The said vehicle may be equipped with a side lift, absolutely necessitating that side stripping! Parking in the striped zone of a handicapped spot renders the spot USELESS to many disabled folk. It's not included in the grey zone of parking lot striping. It's strictly off limits, and the owner of any vehicle parking there should have their vehicle towed away! Anyways, time to get back to work! Marina (note from Mama: good point . . . it's important to distinguish between handicapped striping and general lot striping. A pox on me!) Friday, January 28 More on the issue of parking in the striped zone next to a handicapped spot: Thank you. You've done a great job with reminding the female motorcyclists not to park in those handicapped areas. Let's all remember to spread the word to males and other motorists. Some handicapped people are able to travel alone and don't have a person to help. What may seem to be a small inconvenience to an able bodied person can be a huge obstacle to someone with physical disabilities. Kris Kennedy (note from Mama: thank you for sharing your thoughts and encouraging riders to remind others that this is a big no-no.) Dear
VTwin Mama, BUT . . . I have been perusing driving conditions all across the USA and one thing sticks out a mile . . . the general consensus seems to be that the majority of car drivers never use turn signals??? I couldn't believe it. How did it ever get to the stage that most drivers never use them? I read even cop cars seldom use them. That's just plain crazy. And as someone who lives in a country where everybody uses signals, that's my single greatest fear about riding in the USA. Lane changing and turns and pull outs with no warning . . . horrifies me Petra. Kevin in Australia (who is coming to the U.S. next month for some extended riding) Dear
Kevin, I agree that the general lack of using turn signals is a problem and why maintaining a good distance from cars in front of you is a must. This, however, is the lesser of two evils IMHO. The " not seeing riders" is more troubling to me, and why I never changed out my loud straight shot pipes on the Harley I owned. I constantly scan for possible pull outs and you can usually tell if they've got you in their vision (just by how their head is angled) and when I thought someone didn't see me, I gunned the engine and roared the pipes. That catches their attention. So does blaring the horn if the bike doesn't have loud pipes. If these tactics don't seem to do the trick I instantly slow down, change lanes, anything to minimize my exposure to the idiot who is about to hurt me. I realize that not all problems can be avoided . . . Ron and Char probably didn't even have a moment to assess the pending danger . . . Another danger spot is cars pulling onto a highway . . . again the "didn't see the bike" syndrome, and I've been forced to another lane or off onto the road shoulder. The motorcycle advocacy groups continue to lobby for additional training for car drivers to bring the issue to their attention in hopes that by learning about it, they'll be more cognizant of the problem. With all this said, you're going to find that riding in the U.S. is going to a pleasurable experience . . . for every "thing" that might have happened, I've had 26 years of great riding, and have developed an almost subconscious ability to scan front/left/right/back pattern that allows me to also enjoy the beauty of the ride while doing everything possible to keep me safe. Riding a motorcycle, no matter where you are, is a chosen risk, and one does it knowing the inherent risk level that goes with the territory. Mama Saturday, May 28 For Kevin who has brought up the issue of cage driver's very bad habits: Good comments, Petra! I think as a beginner (about 1200 mi, in total) keeping that scanning going, plus riding in a group formation is nearly overwhelming! People pulling out in front of bikes is so common! Just a couple of nights ago a guy backed a big travel trailer out onto the highway from a driveway on the opposite side from my lane. He had waited for three or four cars in front of me to get past, then here he came. My Sporty has a very anemic horn, and I don't think he even heard it. By the time he finally stopped (about half way into my lane), I was driving outside the fog line to stay out of his way. It underscores that fact that most accidents happen within a few miles of home! We gotta stay vigilant all the time! I've heard varied opinions about loud pipes, but it sounds like you are in the loud pipes camp. I may have to look into that option, that plus need to find a horn loud enough to be heard over the engine! Re: loud pipes, even with my mild-mannered little Sportster 883, I sometimes have a bit of ringing in my ears after riding. What is your opinion about ear plugs, especially on a louder bike? TrikeRider (note from Mama: yes, the minute you're out on the road, it's your responsibility to be ready to take evasive action to hopefully mitigate someone else's stupid move. That's why practice, practice, practice is a must to be a good rider. It's not the smooth ride, but do you know your bike's handling characteristics when quick action is called for?! Loud pipes continue to have controversy wrapped around them . . . my last bike already had them, and once I learned the value in a real life situation, I decided not to go back to the stock pipes, which I had in my possession. I like the idea of boosting the horn's sound range . . . if you type in "louder motorcycle horn" in a search engine you'll find all sorts of solutions! And don't forget screaming at the top of your lungs . . . I've had success with that as well! We've had plus and minus opinions on ear plugs . . . if you do decide to go this route, make sure you get quality ones and even consider having them professionally fitted.) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Linda, For readers new to this site and new riders, what I want to you to get from this letter is that no matter what challenges you are facing in regard to riding . . . know that you ARE NOT ALONE! Not by any stretch of the imagination. So write in, tell me what's going on, have the courage to share, and you'll find the support you need here. That's a promise! Just ask Linda who knows first-hand what a difference we make for each other . . . it's relevant, it's powerful, and it's by women for women (with men welcome)! Mama Sunday, June 5 Meet Kevin/Australia who is visiting the U.S. west! For Linda, from Kevin, about the additional comments on traffic in the U.S.: Linda...congrats on the new bike...thanks for reassurance re; turn signals in USA. Cell phones are a smaller problem here (Kevin lives in Australia). It's illegal to drive with a hand held phone in a car here. It's only legal to use a cell phone in a car if you have a hands free system. It's not just cops that enforce it either. Many other drivers and riders, seeing someone using a hand held phone whilst driving, normally blow their horns and yell..."Get off the phone wanker!" We even have bumper and rear window stickers that say the same thing. But hey, I've seen people reading newspapers spread across the steering wheel as they drive to work in the morning too. What can I tell you? 50% of drivers (and a lot of riders also) should never be allowed anywhere near a vehicle. I have told people before...for the average, sedimentary citizen...driving a car or riding a bike is inherently the most dangerous thing they will ever do. People never think of that. Enjoy your new ride, and take care out there. I will be touring the Northwest states and also Alberta and Banff in ummm...about 20 days...not that I'm counting or anything...LOL. Kevin (note from Mama: Kevin is a frequent visitor to the VTwin Mama site and I'm glad he'll be visiting us here in the U.S., although his lovely wife Terri will not be joining him. So, it looks like he's landing in L.A. on June 24th, then flying to Kansas to hook up with VTwin Mama sister PurplePony Gal for June 26th. Then riding through Colorado, Utah and Wyoming, maybe Alaska, and then headed for Sturgis Rally. Any sister who wants to hook up can communicate through me . . . hey, the Aussie accent is delicious enough for a get together! Unfortunately I can not join the fun as I'll be moving to the new house during all of that and heading to Atlantic City at the end of June for the WITW Summer Nationals.) Dear
VTwin Mama, My question is this: My boyfriend told me that I should place the bike in neutral when I approach a red light, that way, I could rest up my hand a little; and also, he says that is better for the bike, that is like a "brake" for the engine. I asked some people on another web site specifically dedicated to my type of bike (Rebel 250) and they said that putting the bike in neutral while waiting for the traffic light to change was a "bad habit." I have to admit that I've been doing it, I've seen many bikers do it too, so I thought that it couldn't be that bad, but the doubt is killing me. Could you clear this up for me, please? What is the best thing to do when I'm at a red light? Rebel with a Cause Dear Rebel
with a Cause, I'm not sure if there is a perfectly right answer to your question. If I know that a stop is going to be longer, and I'm riding through lots of traffic signals, I shift to neutral so I can rest both hands. If I can see that the light is going to change sooner than later, I stay in first. However, in chaotic traffic (think right after work, when the road is most cluttered with cage drivers), I tend to stay in first so that I can more quickly zip out of a situation behind me (i.e. cage driver that doesn't look they are paying attention, etc.). So, I'm thinking that you have more control of the bike at a stop by remaining in first. Readers, what other points might a person take into consideration on this issue? Mama Wednesday, October 5 For Rebel with a Cause and whether to shift into neutral at stoplights or not: Remembering my MSF course - taught that one should always be in first at a stoplight. Even though it is tempting to rest one's hand, you are not in a ready position to make a move if necessary. For instance, even if there is a car at a stop behind me, I never know about the car behind them, etc. I have continued to employ the first gear rule ever since. Lisa (note from Mama: thanks!) My DH has said the same sort of thing to me, and he always puts his bike in neutral at a stop. However, having come extremely (within a hair!) of getting rear-ended at a stop, I DO NOT put my bike in neutral unless as Mama pointed out Im waiting for a very long time, not crazy traffic, and car(s) have already lined up behind me!! Making a quick getaway is very important!! Besides, when the light changes Im ready to go and DH is still putting his in gear!! Kansas Gal (note from Mama: stuff happens, best to be prepared!) I stay in first gear at a light in case I have to get
out of the way in a hurry. If I need to rest a hand or make a personal
adjustment (i.e., remove sunglasses), I never shift to neutral at a light
unless I see the traffic behind me has stopped, whether during high or low
traffic times. Holding the clutch in at a light helped me when I was
learning to ride, in that it forced me get into the habit of keeping the
clutch pulled in so I wouldn't forget and release it accidentally. Lastly,
putting the bike in neutral when approaching a light is probably not a
good idea when learning. How many times do you approach a light and then
it changes before your feet ever go down? Probably more times than when
you actually stop. This is not a problem now, but when I was really new at
this, it would have been too much to manage while rolling, balancing, and
keeping an eye on a traffic signal, to kick it down into first or up into
second. Even the MSF class material advocates being in first gear when you
stop. My husband puts his bike into neutral and drops his hand; I dont. All it took for me to make up my mind on this issue was a video of a pick-up truck approaching a light that was getting ready to change and he was barely slowing down the driver doesnt notice the motorcycle parked at the light and plows right through it as the light changes literally goes through it; throwing the rider in a cartwheel 30 or 40 feet from the bike. This was taped by the police car that was parked to the right just before the light. Not only did the driver of the pick-up not notice the motorcycle, he also didnt notice the officer. The only time I kick it into neutral for a minute or two is when the light isnt going to change for awhile AND I have a car already parked behind me to protect my you-know-what. I can relax my clutch hand while riding easily enough. Amy (note from Mama: good point on clutch hand relaxation during the ride . . . and for sharing a gruesome, yet relevant, example of what can go wrong so quickly.) Thursday, October 6 More for Rebel with a Cause and whether to shift into neutral at stoplights or not: I work in the insurance industry and I heard about a claim the other day and I'd thought I share this. There was a claim one of the adjusters was working on and it involved a truck and a car. Here is the story: There was a line of cars sitting at a red light waiting for it to change, the last car that stopped happened to look in his mirror and saw a semi come barreling down the road towards them at a high rate of speed. He panics and moved his car out of the path of the truck thereby avoiding the whole accident. The car in front of him, who was stopped, wasn't so lucky. He never saw the truck, the truck never stopped and hit him so hard, it pushed this car underneath the truck that was in front of him. Needless to say, the driver of the car did not live. Try not to keep your bike in neutral at a light, you might need to get out of the way very fast. My boyfriend was almost rear-ended by a car that was not paying attention, he saw the car in his mirror and motored out of there before the car had a chance to hit him. Always look in your mirrors at what is coming up behind you, no matter how far ahead in line you may be, you never know what idiot is back there not paying attention. Needless to say, the above story got my attention as I am the worst offender when it comes to shifting into neutral at a light, I do it all the time and I don't check my mirrors either. I always check my mirrors ninety million other times, especially when I am moving, but it doesn't really occur to me to check my mirrors at a light after I see the car behind me is not going to hit me. You can bet that from now on I will be triple checking my mirrors at every traffic light. Thanks! Doreen from NJ (note from Mama: ok, that's it . . . I'm officially coming off the fence post on this issue and advocating that a rider remains in gear at a stoplight so that there is a better chance of quickly pulling out if something bad is barreling down on the rider. And you can bet that I'll be adding mirror checks at a stop as well . . . I too have never gotten into the habit of doing this . . . something learned, something gained today . . . if my clutch hand is tired, then it's time to pull over and rest . . . thanks for sharing this story Doreen.) Friday, October 7 Even more for Rebel with a Cause and whether to shift into neutral at stoplights or not: Mama, I absolutely love your website and greatly appreciated all of your hard work! (thanks!) I have read with interest the various opinions concerning whether to shift into neutral at stoplights, and thoroughly agree that remaining in first gear is the safest way to wait for the light to change. Another thought that came to my mind was to always keep your brakes activated, either by hand or foot, to keep your brake light on. This will allow other drivers behind you to know you are stopped. Many drivers use the brake light as an indicator of whether you are moving or stopped. So if you are sitting still with your brake light off, there may be an impulse of the driver behind you to "jump the gun" or not slow down at all and hit you from behind. Ride on VTwin Mamas! Ridingranny in Benton, KY (note from Mama: good grief, I'm just doing everything wrong! I'm on of those people that also rested their brake hand/foot at a stop, and though the bike's brake light is smaller, I can see now that every little thing helps . . . I'll be correcting my own riding habits immediately!) Monday, December 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, I decided to ride when I turned 50. I took the class and fell in love with riding right then. Basically it was the first time on a bike as I hadn't even been a passenger except once in high school (many yrs ago). I flunked the riding part the first time (hate admitting to it) but was told to come back to join the next class and try again. I almost didn't take the test the second time since I didn't have a bike to practice. But finally got up the courage and went to the class. Anyway, I ended up passing! One of the happiest days in my life. Of course, if I would have known what I was in for..... I had saved up money and bought a bike, a Harley Softail Standard. Course, later was told it really was too big a bike for a beginner. I had a terrible time riding that bike, it seemed like every time I took it out I dumped it and was never sure why. Of course, looking back, now I know. Luckily I never got hurt. I would jump out of the way once I knew it was going and watch it go down. Boy, did I cry a lot! I really wasn't getting any help at that time as I was my own. I ended up meeting some really wonderful people through the local HOG, there are a lot of women that ride in this area. I would get up the nerve and go with them, worrying about my stopping and parking. I always thought if I never had to stop I'd never have any trouble I was never nervous in traffic and I loved corners, always felt like I was flying! To make another story short, I met a man at a HOG meeting who I knew casually from work. I was always looking for someone to ride with and found out this man rides! He was getting back it after many years of not riding. We rode all over the place and, to make another long story short, ended up getting married! Thanks to riding! I ended up putting 40,000 miles on that 2000 Softtail and bought another '02 Softail Standard last summer which now has 25,000 miles on it. We went to Texas (we live in Salem, Oregon) to visit my uncle last summer and put 5,000 miles on. What an adventure that was! My husband now has a Roadking, which I talked him into buying last summer. He finally got me to ride it! It reminded me of that riding curve I went through at the beginning! Another proud moment is that I loved riding that Roadking. Riding is part of our lives and we both love it. I'll ride until I can't get it off the kickstand anymore. (And I still worry about backing it up and parking!) Thanks for letting me tell my story! Barb in Salem, OR Dear
Barb, Whenever we identify for ourselves a skill that could use some polishing, that's the time to draw up a battle plan for learning. Identify exactly what the worry is, then find a distraction-free area to mimic the situation and practice your moves to handle it smoothly. If it's a matter of general judgment, then do a run with your husband that is simply riding a few miles and parking, riding a few miles and parking, etc. Practice till the jitters are minimized and then go away! It sounds like you've got a loving partner to help you, so off you go to talk out the very specific concerns, map out strategies to practice those specific concerns, and get it handled! Mama Friday, January 27 Dear
VTwin
Mama, Dear
Tracey, Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Patricia, If you're really in the "advocate mode," then consider writing a letter to the editor of your local paper to bring awareness to the problem. Follow that up with an offer to be interviewed. Contact your local TV stations to bring the situation to their attention and see if they won't consider a segment (pitch it as a "motorcycle season is upon us, drivers need to pay attention" kind of thing). Contact your councilperson and begin a dialog . . . perhaps the appropriate government department needs to earmark money for an awareness campaign. Every rider in your area will thank you for any step you take. Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Silvia, To this day, after 26 years of riding, if I find myself in a hurry (especially if there is a lot of traffic, motorcycle or otherwise, and I feel I'm in the way), I make mistakes that get close to a drop. I'm not paying attention to the little clues, the front end tends to twist easier, and I'm not ready for the weight of the bike. I think the main thing is whenever possible, the backing in or out is all about keeping your bike (aka, the front tire) in a straight line. That means you position your bike in front of a slot so that the roll back can be in a straight line. When backing out, do so in a straight line until you've cleared enough room to now angle the tire for a turn out, but moving forward. When we try to hurry, the first thing we do is to combine the back in/out with a turn to the front end in the same movement, and it gets dicey fast. The back in procedure is usually the one where we tend to want to hurry, but it can be quite smooth if you've practiced your positioning technique so that your judgment on a back in is right on target every time. Go to any non-busy section of a parking lot and practice your left curve swoop into position, straighten the front end, and back in. Keep doing this until you've got your line-up down pat. I'll also note that it's always wise to be in neutral so you don't have to worry about keeping the clutch lever pulled in, won't accidentally goose the throttle (and scare the living crap out of yourself) and can cover the front brake. Again, in a hurry, I tend to stay in gear with the clutch pulled in, but if I'm off "the line" then I've got that extra stuff to think about. If I had taken a second to pop into neutral, I would have removed that "extra" and concentrate on the back in move. Mama Thursday, March 30 For Silvia who finds backing up a set-up for dropping the bike: While the best possible scenario would entail being able to back up straight, that is not always possible. There are situations where you cannot back into a parking space keeping the bike straight. We frequent several places like this. One setup in particular that comes to mind is when you have slanted pull-in parking right next to the roadway (sometimes there's a narrow bit of space, but sometimes there is not). Another that comes to mind is parallel parking next to a busy road. In areas that bikes frequent (like our Geneva On The Lake) the bikes are often backed up to the curb with only a slight slant, in order to accommodate more bikes. In these situations, when only a spot here or there is available, if you positioned yourself to back straight in, you'd be in the roadway! So, IF you have to back in and curve at the same time, I would add that you should definitely be in neutral, make a small left swoop ahead of time to cut some of the turning angle (space permitting), and then when backing in, try not turn your bars at full lock; turn the bars as little as you can get away with and still get into the spot. Also take shorter steps. This way, the handlebars won't have that tendency to "break" and you have feet on the ground (or at least touching) more than you have them in the air, so to speak. Less opportunity for the bike to go over. Don't rush; your buddie(s) can wait. Linda C. (note from Mama: I'm hoping Silvia takes your thoughts and heads out for some practice . . . parking is just as much a skill as any other component of riding!) Friday, March 31 More for Silvia who finds backing up a set-up for dropping the bike: I have a Roadstar that has a lower center of gravity than the Harley, but my method for backing up should work for you as well. I put the bike in neutral and the back it up with the kickstand down. I have never had to use the stand, but it does give me a certain level of comfort knowing that if I lose my balance, I can always let it back down (albeit carefully!). Mommydba (note from Mama: a wise consideration!) Monday, April 3 From Silvia who is working on best-practice backing up the bike skills: Girls, thank you for the tips about backing up. After getting over my initial frustration, I figured it out myself. The main thing is to stay centered (not to lean, I still take my time, but that really helped me, of course Crash Bars are a wonderful thing) ha ha . . . Thank you again, Silvia (note from Mama: it was once noted that the way a response is worded can help a rider better visualize how to go about overcoming a challenge, and in many cases, the very fact that others have managed to learn a way that works for them is the "proof positive" that in fact it can be done! That then gives someone learning the encouragement to go out and work on the skill with a greater knowledge of what specific details to observe and correct as needed. I'm glad to hear your confidence is much higher than before!) Wednesday, May 10 For Diamond Lil on getting the motorcycle awareness message out there: Up here in British Columbia, Canada May is motorcycle awareness month. This the month most of us put our bikes on the road so it's a good idea. The provincial government puts ads in the paper reminding drivers that motorcycles are out there, etc. The school that taught me to ride suggested keeping your high beams on during the day to be more visible. I'm thinking of putting louder pipes on as I think most people don't check their mirrors enough and they may hear me better. B.C. Bonni (note from Mama: how wonderful to hear that you've seen awareness ads in your area! Thanks for noting ways to make ourselves/motorcycles more visible . . . it does make a difference when we have more options to attract someone's attention. ) Saturday, May 20 About Scotka's description of her accident: She makes a reference to her husband's riding when she states that he may have "pulled out too far at first and corrected himself back into his lane." I let out an involuntary gasp when I read that. Perhaps he is a new rider too. In any event, I thought this is a good time to remind all riders that when turning, STAY IN YOUR LANE! Turning wide, from a stop or rolling, is a good way to get clipped by traffic, oncoming or otherwise. If turning wide is a problem (it used to be for me), look far down the road instead of down AT the road. Linda C. (note from Mama: experienced riders do this as well on occasion, a sloppy habit at best, and at worst, sets up a bad situation. Thanks for the timely reminder!) Dear VTwin Mama, We found a way to ride into the city without going on the Interstate. I love the 2 lane highways, traveling 50 - 60 mph is so much fun! But, it takes an hour or more to get into the city to wherever we want to go, with all the starts and stops. Anyway, now I am feeling pressure to learn to ride on the Interstate. Going in to bike night and other events would be so much quicker, and my husband loves it because he loves to ride fast, and he is not intimidated at all by traffic at high speeds. At this point it scares the 'you know what' out of me. I realize that there is probably more danger of a crash going through all the traffic lights, but so far I am still terrified. Of course, riding on the back of my husband's Harley was also extremely unnerving at first, so is this something I will get over? I have a VStar 650 Classic which has been lowered 1 1/2 inches front and back, but I am still not flat footed because I am only 4'10" tall. But I am riding with the help of 2 inch heels on my boots. I am thinking about getting the Corbin seat but am unsure of which one. They are very expensive. I would like to be sure it would be worth the expense before I buy it. Linwebs Dear Linwebs, If necessary (and I recommend it), preplan the exact route by car first (entrance ramp, length of ride, and exit ramp, perhaps one that you can turn left at the bottom and then left again to re-enter the Interstate to go back). Note any and all challenges and talk out how it will be handled. Discuss with your hubby dearest about whether you would prefer to lead (so the travel speed is in your control) or follow (but he agrees not to go past a certain speed or make too quick of lane changes), or trying both positions to see which is less fearful for you. Then add more traffic! Repeat. For the nighttime riding, again, try a night Interstate ride at the lowest traffic time. So, the key is to plan small steps towards your goal. The Corbin
Gunfighter model is most often mentioned as are the Le
Pera and Saddlemen
seats for riders looking to lower their seat height. Judi's
letter chronicles her experience on a Le Pera fitment and their service commitment
with her and brings up lots of good points that should help you decide which
seat manufacturer you wish to work with.
Mama Monday, June 19 For Linwebs who is nervous about Interstate riding: I was extremely nervous about highway riding, too. The idea was very intimidating. What I finally decided to do was start with a short trip between exits, about 4 miles, at a time when traffic was fairly light. It worked! I got over those initial jitters and started taking slightly longer trips, and now it's no big deal. Oh, a windshield helps a lot, too. Li in Florida (note from Mama: thanks for letting Linwebs know that baby steps work!) Monday, June 26 More for Linwebs who is nervous about Interstate riding: I agree with Mama, I have tried to ride
behind my husband and it makes me very nervous, I always feel like I am trying
to keep up and should I follow him or make sure nothing is in my path and get
separated. We went on a ride to our dealership in WA and I led the way there
and the way home. It was great. He does not ride fast but just the starting
and stopping and turning was enough to make me frustrated and struggle to keep
up. Try leading, it does put you in the drivers seat and makes a lot of
difference at least in the beginning. Monday, October 30 Hey Petra, Remember when I asked the group about decreasing radius, downslope highway entrances? Well I finally conquered that with flying colors today! It's amazing how scary curves in a car are not that intimidating on a bike, once you start leaning. That was an excellent challenge conquered, since it's the fastest way to get on the major highway around here. I found a few other obstacles on the way as well. It was really windy today, a lot of cross winds, and I realized why people call bikes "iron horses." A few times the wind knocked me to the side, just like riding a skittish horse who sidesteps. It took me a while to get the hang of leaning into the wind, and losing a most definite death grip on the handlebars! Then I got into a bunch of new road construction with alternating levels of asphalt. I couldn't avoid it in my lane, the higher level was parallel and squeezing me out, so I had to shift over onto it, without the option of an angle. A few seconds of "holy moly" going on in my mind, but the bike handled it quite well. Phew! What a day... but you know you're always talking about practice, practice, so on the way home I did just that. I practiced my packing techniques, by putting a bunch of groceries into my saddlebags. There were various things including a rottiserie chicken, a loaf of bread, milk, fabric softener, and a pumpkin pie which I placed on the tank, with my tank bag securing it between my legs. I think I'll be good for the first road trip we take! Kat Dear Kat, There's nothing like a omigosh moment to define where you're really at in terms of the brain getting one's body in synch with the motorcycle . . . you're getting to the "oneness" phase . . . congrats! When I think back on you and Rhonda just getting started . .
.well, I just couldn't be prouder of both your accomplishments to date. WAY TO
GO!
Mama Monday, December 4 Hi Petra,
Ok, I've now successfully written a novel. I hope all is well, and as always will drop a line with new milestones as they occur. Thanks much, and keep up the great work and website. Richard Dear Richard Monday, December 11 Hi
VTwin Mama, Dear
Gloria, One site noted a resurgence in interest for these biker or "getaway" whips as a tool to heighten our presence on the road (catches a cagers eye) but having been around the Myrtle Beach rallies for the last three rounds, didn't see any on bikes. I can see their value but given that it's possible for the whip to be misconstrued by a 1% gang, I'd be cautious in considering it as an attention grabber. My choice is loud horns, loud pipes, and gear that makes us more visible. Although lane splitting (riding between cars) is legal in California, it really needs to be carefully thought out as it's highly dangerous. According to the California Highway Patrol site, "Lane splitting by motorcycles is permissible but must be done in a safe and prudent manner." The main use of lane splitting is at very low speeds in a gridlock situation, where vehicles creep forward. Here, it is especially hard on a rider who has to clutch in and out, so you slowly move between vehicles at 10mph so you don't have to keep clutching. However, lots of cagers see it as an unfair "right" and if they are in a road-rage mood, could purposely try to harm you (stick and arm out, open their door even a bit, etc.). Proceed with caution! Mama |
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