|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Motorcycle Forum for Riders Who are Insulin Dependent The National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD) in the UK AMA site with resource information Tim will noodle out ideas with you for modifications Northeastern Silent Riders (deaf riders club for NJ and nearby states) Chariot Wheelchair Motortrike Company: 3 wheeled, street legal vehicle for active people who are physically challenged Martin Conquest: high performance motorcycle that can be driven from a wheelchair ChrisTrikes: a company out of Miami with two models for wheelchair users A resource article on trikes and disabled riders from Kevin in Australia for Bikernet.com |
2001 Wednesday, April 11Dear VTwin Mama, Now I feel hopeless after my first ride. I can't seem to bond with that bike and I'm just not enjoying it. I don't know if it's me or the bike. I'm 5'4" and not exactly a weakling, but I feel like the bike is too top heavy for me. Left turns are a nightmare with my clutch arm. We decided what factors about the bike are my weaknesses. I feel beaten and I'm even considering giving up solo. My only options are get out or try something more user friendly (considering a used Low Rider). What are your thoughts about women on this particular model vs. a Dyna or Softail? Is this a common complaint from women? I want to ride, but I want to ride SAFE. Please advise. My husband is 100% supportive, with my safety being first. Thanks for any advice. Frustrated Dear Frustrated, Now, due to the injury sustained on your left elbow, you feel less than confident about handling the bike altogether, which has you questioning your model bike, the bike-set and yourself. But fear not determined VTwin Mama. Not all is lost. First, if the elbow injury is something that will mend itself by not stressing it through repeated clutch motions, consider a temporary stop on solo riding to give it a rest until it fully heals. Meanwhile, hop back on your wonderful husband's bike as a passenger to renew your feeling for the ride itself. You need to feel the wind on your face again in a positive light, and not connected with your feelings of frustration about your own bike. Although I myself am 5'10", I know that I went through many bikes, and their set-ups, before I found myself comfortable in arm, body and leg positioning. This did prove to be trial and error. I'm afraid that I can't be of much help in an opinion on the different types of Harley-Davidson bikes, as I've really only ridden my old SuperGlide. But I think you are on the right path by thinking about testing out other models (before buying) to see what is what. I do agree however, that a bike with a windshield feels top heavy, especially to a beginning rider, and even experienced ones who are using one for the first time. It's an added component that alters the handling characteristics of the bike. It's not just you or just the bike, but a grand mix of the ultimate desire to ride and enjoy the living heck out of it and some initial concerns rightly voiced. Although this column has not yet received it's first set of feedback from other riders reading this column and adding their two cents worth, I'm really hoping that we get some this time because my guess is that there is ton of advice out there for you. So, by posting your question, we'll give it a shot. So chin up VTwin Mama, you are NOT alone and we're behind you 100%. Mama For goodness sake people, Share
Your Thoughts Friday, April 20Dear VTwin Mama,
Dear Bobbye, By the by, my second bike was a Honda Shadow 750cc and I loved it, despite the fact that I am 5'10" and the leg room was limited for moving around. Still, it handled like a dream and took me a great journey from Chicago through Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, down through Michigan and back to Chicago. Love that shaft drive! Mama Friday, April 27Dear VTwin Mama,
Dear Nancy, Thursday, May 3Dear VTwin Mama,
Dear Gabrielle, Monday, May 7Dear VTwin Mama Honey,
Dear Diddy, Tuesday, May 15Dear VTwin Mama (and Frustrated),
Dear Sonja, Wednesday, January 2 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Sara, Other suggested links in my search didn't bear good results (dead end pages, etc.), so if any readers have more sources, let's get Sara to the right places! Mama Tuesday, October 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Mo, Wednesday, April 23 Dear VTwin Mama, With
the Virago, I can sit bolt upright, even lean back a little, and rides
over two hours give me no problems. I am 6 and 230 lb, so I thought
Id be too big, but the screen really does make a huge difference.
When I first started riding, there were plenty of girls on two wheels,
and they enjoyed tearing around our beautiful roads as much as any of us
guys. Here in Dear Martin, Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Glor, A simpler solution would be to sell the Sporty and look for a bike that was designed originally as an automatic. Take a look at the selection Ridley offers and keep in mind that there are a number of used Ridley manufactured bikes that are appearing for sale around the country. Of concern however is the fact that your medical condition affects both hands, and even if you opt for an "auto" bike -- you still need to be able to work the front brake lever. Relying on the foot-operated rear brake alone is a huge no-no as it is waaaay to easy to lock up the rear brake and get yourself into massive trouble on the road -- I've been there and done that! So, keep that consideration in mind. I truly sympathize with your situation and know that you are struggling with not being able to ride. You don't indicate in your letter whether you are married (to a rider or non-rider) or in a relationship of any other kind. I realize that riding as a passenger is NOT the same, but given your doctor's orders, and the fact that you want your face in the wind (but at what cost?), that you might consider beginning to seek out riders who are willing to take you on as a passenger. Are you a member of the local Harley HOG chapter? If not, attend a meeting and introduce yourself. I'd rather ride passenger than never ride again, but that's a hugely personal choice that might not work for everyone. Hopefully this answer contains a few ideas for you to begin seeking a solution to your riding dilemma. Mama Friday, July 18 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
SE Wright, The only other automatic bike (non scooter) I've ever heard of is the Honda Hondamatic, but it is no longer in production. Still, you could check the Internet for used bikes for sale. They were made in 400, 450 and 750 sizes. The Hondamatic Owner's Association might be a good source of information to explore this option further. Because there are so few automatic models available, numbers and letters aren't going to help. Mama Thursday, September 25 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kevin, Wednesday, October 1 I have the same thing. I had to sell my Rambler convertible (due to no power steering) and my 450 Honda. Boy it was hard, but you know better days are ahead. I now have a Yamaha Riva 200 scooter automatic and love it, but am in the process of looking for another bike as I am ready to ride again. Stay with the glucosimine and good luck. SE Wright (note from Mama: thanks for writing in to let Glor know she is not alone -- I have passed on your email address to her as requested.) Dear
VTwin Mama, I have a 1987 Yamaha Riva 200 for trade -- it is in very good condition with 16,000 kms. on it. The only thing is the seat has a couple of rips in the grooves and I had to put black tape on them. I can reupholster the seat but would it take away from the value, or at that age with a trade, would it matter? I would like a private deal but then I would have to sell the scooter and I could use the money on a trade-in instead. Any help would be appreciated. SE Wright Dear
SE Wright, The thin look that seems to have captured your imagination is probably going to be difficult to find at many manufacturers in bike sizes that are big enough to handle road cruising (although we've had input from women who ride 250cc bikes on the highway and don't have any problems) -- because they are designed to be heavy enough to handle road and weather conditions (think wind) and sport larger motors which require bigger frames and bigger gas tanks so you're not at the gas pump all the time. And there is no such thing as "women's style" bikes -- although I'll acknowledge that some manufacturers seem to want to push women towards one style or another -- you'll find women on bikes from the smallest to the most powerful. Rather, bikes are usually purchased for a specific purpose in mind: getting to work, local day trips, cruising weekends, or extended road trips. This dictates what size/style of bike is most likely to appeal to someone. I'm note sure that any bike could be considered "easy" -- although a lightweight bike is probably "easier" to maneuver and handle overall, etc., and a scooter (for just around town) is "easiest" of all (no clutch, etc.) I think it's safe to say that in general, selling a bike privately is almost always going to get you more money, but the only reason to replace the seat is if you think you can recoup that investment in the actual asking price. Meanwhile, there is no harm in approaching local dealers to ascertain the possible trade-in value. In either case, you can more correctly value your bike by visiting the Kelley Blue Book for Motorcycles so you'll be in position of knowledge. Mama Friday, October 3 For SE Wright who is looking for a slim profile motorcycle: For SE Wright who is searching for a motorcycle that is light-weight and has a narrow tank. Go to a Suzuki dealer and sit on an Intruder 800. I bought a new one this past November, rode it out to Colorado last month (4500 mi.) and also did the Ironbutt Saddlesore 1000. I have almost 23,000 miles on her and she is perfect for the highway. Cindy (note from Mama: every time I see someone on this bike I am impressed with its sleek design without sacrifice of power!) Tuesday, October 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
SE, Thursday, November 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
SE, Friday, November 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, My friend is pretty certain that it was an original Harley part, however it may have been done through a dealership and have been customized just for them. I went to my local Harley dealership and they questioned their NZ distributor with no luck so I reach out to you lot. Has anyone heard of these devices, or maybe seen it at a rally? As I'm sure you can all understand, my partner would much rather have a bike she can ride, than a trike (nothing against trikes of course). MJ Dear
MJ, Monday, December 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, The Autoglide has a low center of gravity, is well balanced and with the footboards, standard or the optional forward controls it can easily accommodate any height or leg length. It can be a bit pricey for some but the fun of just letting loose with the throttle and no shifting makes it well worth it. I'm ashamed to say I'm fairly heavy but the Autoglide at 700cc has such power you would think it was a much larger bike. I don't feel I will outgrow it's strength or performance any time soon. Anne Dear
Anne, Monday, January 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, I am a rider with disabilities. I have degenerative disc disease of the spine, and several herniated , and ruptured discs in my back, and I also have arthritis in my neck, back legs arms and hands. I tried riding my 250 Honda Nighthawk and the shifting was becoming hard for me to do. Then one day we ran across a man that was only 3 1/2 feet tall that was riding a bike we had never seen or heard of before. He had it custom sized to fit him, and it was a Ridley Speedster. It was a fully automatic bike and it was enough to get my attention. As time went on, and we purchased our first computer, I decided to look up Ridley Motorcycles, and see what they had to offer. They were just coming out with the full size fully automatic bike. Seat height is 24 inches (which is nice for short people) and fully automatic, which is nice for people with disabilities. My Black beauty and I have put on a lot of miles together, and this is the only way to go. I freak my 2 children out, one is 32, and one 33. They can't believe their Mom is riding her own bike, after riding on the back with my husband for so long. They are finally getting use to it, and they know that I will never give it up! This bike was a blessing to me. It is 700 cc's, and it has never had a problem keeping up with the big boys. My husband enjoys taking it out (with or without my permission), and he rides a Yamaha Roadstar. I think this is an ideal bike for people with disabilities, and people that are getting older, and hate all the shifting. Everywhere we go my black beauty is the center of attention. There can be a thousand other bikes (makes and models), but everyone is standing around my bike. I love it. I just wanted to give you my thoughts and maybe this will help some people that still want to ride, an idea. Thanks for the space, Sincerely Sweet Sherri Dear
Sweet Sherri, Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Diane, While a new seat may indeed be the solution to your problem, given your back problem, I would look a little deeper into your overall body position when you're on the bike. What do I mean (well, I'm sure I have some sort of clue!)? If you were to sit in a chair (perhaps at your kitchen table), and mimic "the bike," what would be the most comfortable position of your back, arm and legs? Now, go to the bike, take the same position and evaluate everything. Are you reaching slightly to the hand controls? Is the seat too wide, thus forcing your legs out that causes your back to compensate? Are these ok, except you could use some support right at the small of your back, or perhaps you need to remove the brunt of the air impact on your body when traveling at 60-75mph on longer rides? Perhaps your legs are being forced into a position that is tiring your back. With these added insights you are in better position (!) to determine your solution set. Pullback risers would bring the handlebar closer to you so that you're not bent over to reach them. A narrower seat might offer more comfort. Or, look into a sissy bar with sliding backrest that you could position to support your entire body. In addition, you might want to consider adding a windshield (if you don't already have one) to "flow" the air away from your body (I find the air hitting my body on longer trips to be quite tiring). I find a windshield also removes the air force from my neck and shoulders (the added weight of a helmet can really impact the back). Leg position (and the impact on your back) may be helped by adding highway pegs so that you can change leg (and therefore back) positions during the course of a longer ride so that you're not fixed into one position the whole time. Once you've look closer at all these impact points, then it's time to visit your local dealer and discover solutions available for your model bike. I'll also add this. I've met many women riders who are able to ride long distances with nary an impact on their physical stamina. I'm not one of them! I have determined that I need to stop every 100 miles (no matter what the gas gauge says!) and take a break. It's both mental and physical. Never be afraid to determine your boundaries and ride accordingly. It's the mark of a smart VTwin Mama sister! Mama Thursday, February 19 For Diane whose back problems require good solutions: I have back problems too, in fact I have 2 ruptured discs. I too ride about 100 miles and I'm done for the day. I just added a new riser to my bike to bring the handlebars back a few inches so I don't have to reach out so far. That helped a lot. I received a lot of recommendations to get a Corbin seat with a backrest, so I ordered one last week and I'm eagerly waiting on it to arrive. I'll let you know how it works out after Daytona Bikeweek where I plan on putting around 800 miles on my bike (riding the Keys while there). Connie (note from Mama: kudos to you for searching for ways to make a difficult situation workable so that riding can continue to be a joy -- and for sharing what you've found works for you so far. We can't wait to hear about the Corbin seat and it's performance!) Tuesday, February 24 For Diane whose back problems require good solutions: I have found that a Corbin seat with a backrest is very helpful for those of us with back problems. Very comfortable; their seat seems hard but really isn't, and its extra width allows for better distribution of body weight and therefore less problems with the back & spine. CDW (note from Mama: looks like Corbin really makes seats that work wonders!) Monday, March 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Saturday, May 15 For JP who was searching for a sportier auto tranny bike: Have the ladies considered a megascooter? We looked at traditional motorcycles, too, but decided against them because a) we've had foot surgeries that would make shifting tiresome at best and b) we wanted to do two-up riding (once we're comfortable in our solo handling). Most bikes don't give a lot of passenger room. With the megascooters, I'm talking about those that have 400cc to 650cc engines so they easily handle highway speeds. They're like mini-, automatic-Gold Wings. And fun as the day is long. And not just for women--I know a lot of guys who own them and often prefer them over their big trad bikes. More to the original point, they are easily handled by me at 5'1" (think power-lifter's build) and my partner (5'11"--lanky build). We just bought a Suzuki Burgman 400. It's a great first bike and we love her! :-) If you have any thoughts of riding two-up on your
"starter" bike or have medical problems that may preclude the
shifting of a traditional bike, consider a megascooter.
Bryna (note
from Mama: a great idea to investigate further for those who want an auto
transmission!) Tuesday, May 25 Dear
VTwin Mama, Nothing felt as smooth as it used to. At first, my hands were shaking, my stops were kind of jerky, and I killed it a couple times. Those are things that used to not be a problem. I also had to concentrate more on getting it in the right gear and a couple times I pinched my little finger on my left hand between the grip and the clutch while changing gears. I'm sure part of all of that was from not riding for so long and part of it is probably the changes in my brain after being so sick. But, by gosh, I did it! I was very proud of myself. I don't get to ride frequently, unfortunately, but I can't wait to get out and go again. I'm also going back to work in a couple weeks (after being on a medical leave-of-absence the whole year), so this year has turned out to be a really good one. Thanks, Petra, for your wonderfully supportive reply when I wrote before. Also, thanks to you and Marina for advice about windshields. I know a place that will cut it down for about $12, so I just need to get it marked and get it to them. I think I'll prefer looking over the windshield instead of through it. You have a great site, Petra! Linda from Fort Worth, TX Dear
Linda, I don't recall if you belong to a local women's riding organization, but if not, now may be the time to call on them to rally around! Having local sisters to talk with about your revamped life journey in regard to riding may prove to be unofficial therapy that could make a difference in how you handle the challenges down the road. Just a thought. Good luck getting back into the work schedule and glad this site continues to offer you support and acknowledgement of your special situation. You continue to be an inspiration to every rider out there and I consider you a hero of the highest magnitude. WOW sister, your "can do" attitude just blows me away (is there an emoticon for wiping tears from one's eyes in joy?!). Mama Thursday, June 3 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Steve, Wednesday, July 28 For Sue whose husband died but she wants to ride the Goldwing and maybe convert it to an automatic: My heart goes out to her. She would like to see about converting their Gold Wing trike into an automatic: she may want to check out www.adaptivemotorcycling.com. The company has a product that I believe is called "Kliktronic" and is a thumb-switch electronic shifter. She still may need to use the clutch--the site isn't that clear--but it would eliminate the need for left foot shifting. Was designed with amputees in mind. It's not that cheap ($700+) but might offer her the opportunity to continue riding. I wish her and you all the best. Warmest regards, Bryna (note from Mama: I hopped onto the site and it seems that this device removes the shifting task from the foot to the hand, so useful in some circumstances, but not automatic. Still, this is a useful reference. As a side note, although the site is only three pages, and two are focused on this device, the Contact page clearly welcomes special needs riders to contact Tim to ponder and noodle out possible modifications to a bike to accommodate the rider. Yahoo!) Dear
VTwin Mama, I am not afraid to ride again but I am fearful of how long it may take me to do it. There are days that I feel like I could ride with my shoulder but my husband nixes my idea at every turn. He feels that I need a full healing before I ride again. In my head I know that he is right but with the rate I'm going , I may not get to ride again this year. I'm afraid that if I have to wait until next spring I may forget how or become apprehensive. I've wanted to ride and have my own bike most of my life (I'm 37), and finally made the decision to bite the bullet. Do you or any sister have advice about riding now so I won't forget or suck it up and wait? Renee in Toney, AL Dear
Renee, I can only tell you from experience that when I flew off a road at 70mph (into a soft bean field) and severely pulled a muscle connected to my collar bone, that I did NOT ride until I was fully healed, and yes, that was the next year. It's true that I had a lot more riding time/miles already than you do at this juncture, but ask yourself this: if you needed to once again handle an emergency situation, would you physically be ready/able to do so? I'm thinking that to risk re-injury at this point in your convalescence would be foolish to your overall goal of a lifetime of riding. My suggestion: why not take this time to learn more about your bike, it's maintenance, how it works, etc. by pouring over a service manual?! This way your lovely bike stills receive attention and you'll be so much more "in the know" about it! You might also want to get the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies video as a review of slow turns and other useful maneuvers. If you watch it with your husband, you can open up a discussion on what went wrong, how to correctly do that which did you in, and be that much more prepared for when you are healed and fit to ride again. Turn that lemon experience into lemonade! Mama Tuesday, September 7 For Renee who is injured and not quite healed but wants to ride: Her best bet is to not ride until her physician says shes recovered enough to do so. I recently went down on a long road that was 4 gravel when I attempted to make a relatively quick turn. I managed to only bruise my ribs badly. I was almost 2 hours away from home so I rode the bike home. (it only had scratches on the faring) It was a very painful endeavor. It probably prolonged my healing time as a result. I know all too well how strong the desire is to want to ride when you cant. Its not worth it! Teazer, another die-hard rider (note from Mama: good message here!) Wednesday, September 15 More for Renee who is injured and not quite healed but wants to ride: Renee do not fear, I started riding at age 43. You have your manual from the class and when spring comes, just take it slow like you started in the class by feeling the friction point. And Mama is right about the video. Also what I do during the winter is read about riding from all different areas, VTwin Mama's website, books and magazines. I remember one of the things to during the winter to improve my riding is be a voracious reader. Good luck and I hope to read good stuff come spring and who knows, you might have a mild winter. Angela Kosar (note from Mama: this is a good message for everyone, as PMS (Parked Motorcycle Syndrome, i.e. Winter), is coming soon!) Dear
VTwin
Mama, Dear
Sharon, So, one thought is that the ear plugs your husband is using are not doing the job very well. Here's an article and product review on webBikeWorld, and although it's more about noise, I'm wondering it the type of ear plug isn't important (as in, not all ear plugs are created equal!). Now, my next thought is that this pain doesn't sound normal (it's severe) and would advise that your husband have a complete ear checkup by a doctor in case there is some internal damage to the eardrum or related internal part. Even the smallest imbalance or nick could be causing the symptom. Mama Friday, September 24 For Sharon whose husband is experiencing ear pain when riding: I agree with Petra when she says to see a doctor about your husband's ear pain. If they can't pin down a source of the pain have your husband test ride a different bike. I ride a V-Twin without a problem, but when I ride on the back of my husband's Valkyrie I have this annoying and persistent buzz in my head. I've noticed this with and without a helmet. The Valkyrie has the same engine as the Goldwing (opposed 6 cylinder). The newer Goldwings are 300cc bigger than the Valkyrie, though. My hubby doesn't experience a buzz in his ears and head like me. He claims it may be because there's nothing in my head to stop the vibration! LOL! Anyway, it may be the frequency of vibration the engine produces that elicits the pain. Bring this up to the doc as well and see what she says. Also, consider the type of helmet he uses. If any wind is able to get into the helmet it may be irritating internal ear structures. I had a problem a few years ago (before riding with a full face helmet) where cold air would irritate my Eustachian tubes and cause sharp and severe pain. This was quickly diagnosed by my primary care doc and had a fairly simple solution. Jennifer (note from Mama: you've brought up good points to review with the doctor. I never considered that the frequency could be a contributing factor, so it begs the question, would he have the same problem on a different bike!) Friday, November 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, I was a new rider and didn't want to forget what I had learned in the MSF or become scared to get back on. Not once since my accident did I ever think I would not ride again. Well, still (healing) 5 months later, I did finally get "Suzy" (my beloved Savage 650) out of the garage - she sustained minor injuries - I sat on her wondering if I could remember how to ride. With a breathe and my husband's thumbs-up I took Suzy down to the end of the road (maybe 1/2 a mile) and back. I wanted so much to keep going but company showed up and I knew that just that short ride helped me to slay the dread dragon enough to keep me going. I have a renewed sense of purpose to get myself back full strength and get Suzy and I ready for Spring. I just finished "Breaking the Limits" by Karen Larsen and fell in love with riding all over again. (I'll be happy to send it to any Mama that wants to read it - I believe everyone should have the opportunity!) On wonderful advice, I will use the next few months to really learn a lot about Suzy and riding. I want to say a heart-felt thank you for this website - you have provided such a wonderful link for women to share riding and living! The words of advise and encouragement that I've read to others have really been for me, too! Renee in Alabama Dear
Renee, First sister to email me about accepting Renee's offer on passing on the book "Breaking the Limits" (make sure you include your address!) will be passed on to Renee. All others can find the direct link to Amazon for purchase here if it's of interest. I agree that many of the letters one can read on this site actually strike a chord in many, sometimes just info to file away in the brain, sometimes something to try, sometimes a reminder that there are options and pathways if something isn't working out right. All the questions, responses and observations serve one main purpose . . . to share and care! Remember, it's not just me folks that is doing the work . . . it's participation by a wide range of riders that makes the difference! Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Wednesday, November 24 In regard to the motortrike for people in wheelchairs: What an ingenious idea! I love the Chariot Wheelchair Motortrike. I have had a couple disabled people in my life and this would have been a fun way to get them out and about. Im glad to see Dan Ward is using his heart as well as his head to help people enjoy life. I wish this company great success. Carol (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your viewpoint that this is a viable solution for disabled people who wish to continue riding.) And a note from Dan Ward himself: Aloha VTwin WAHINE!, The standard deluxe model sells for $11,500. We build it super-solid and spare nothing; nearly failsafe and many features for the protection of the disabled community/rider. We are a start-up company and have sprouted wings! We have not shipped to the mainland yet [company is in Hawaii if you didn't guess!] but estimate perhaps 30-40 units will be before 2005 is over. We are planning to build a top end model with large 13 inch tires and a European 200 cc motor not specifically for the disabled community. Will have front and back seats like the Gold Wing or Road King big bikes. Imagine that with a convertible top held up by twin chrome roll bars. Whoooo-hooooo! For the distinguished rider who doesn't want to put his/her feet down nor get his/her hairdo messed up. Plus air con and stereo. (WHOA TAKE IT EASY! getting carried away........lookout, calm down heh heh heh ..smile) Aloha, Dear
VTwin Mama, The reason for this email is that I am having some major surgery done today and will be off work for 6 weeks and since I am a very new rider I am so afraid that I will not regain all my strength by spring. I just wanted to let someone know of my fears. All of my friends and both of my sons keep telling me that I will be back to "normal" by spring but I am just afraid. I am so new at riding that I was already afraid that I would forget what I had learned this year and now with this it just seems like strike 2 for me. I certainly am not going to give up . . . I have always been a fighter (that is what got me this far) but this is just out of my control and scary. Merry Christmas and the best of the New Year to all. Keep up the great comments and topics. See all of you on the road next year. Barb Shain Dear
Barb, I can appreciate your fears but understand that you know that your recovery is in part how the surgery goes and in part how well you keep your positive energy flowing afterwards. Worrying about whether you'll be ready for the spring riding season does NOT need to be a source of tension for you. Use your recuperation time off to do some serious educational things. Like reading excellent books on riding, the service/maintenance manual for your bike, and maybe getting the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies video. These can be found on my Education Center page . . . and make excellent gifts (hint, hint to your family and friends who will be wondering what will help cheer you up, besides flowers and chocolate!). While you are reading or watching, envision yourself on your bike successfully completing the maneuvers described/shown and having a thoroughly enjoyable time! Now that's good vibes. That way, when you ARE ready to get back on the bike, you're brain is going to be primed for action, and correct action at that! Mama Friday, December 17 Barb, I completely understand your fears. I have no idea the extent of your surgery, but take your doctor's advice for a good, safe recuperation period. Ask any and every question of him that you can. Remember, there are no stupid questions - especially when it comes to your body and health! The best thing you can do is physical therapy. Gone are the days when doctors prescribed extended bedrest for the simplest procedures. These days patients are often up and about within hours of their procedure. Even heart surgery patients are up and walking the day after to prevent life-threatening blood clots in the legs (DVT). Your physical therapist is your best bet to a strong and healthy return to your bike. They are well schooled in body mechanics and how best to rehabilitate you from your specific injury or surgical procedure. In all honesty . . . it's not going to be fun, it'll probably be boring, and it will definitely be uncomfortable (PTs have to be sadists!), but if you do it you WILL reap the benefits! (Take it from my hubby - 20 months of PT brought him back from many broken bones and other injuries to his physically demanding job of police officer.) It is important for ALL riders to develop and maintain good health to be a safe rider. "Core" strength seems to be a catch phrase of the past few years, but having strong stomach and back muscles is key to handling your motorcycle. Upper body strength is also a big plus. Not to forget the legs as they are the secret to lifting a fallen bike - no matter its size (it's mostly technique). VTwin Mama has a link to a site which shows how to lift a bike in a mini-skirt. Check it out! Don't forget to listen to your body. My husband's physical therapist told him to do what his body can tolerate - not at the moment, but based on how it would feel the next day. Overdoing it can be worse than not exercising at all. Oh yeah, most important of all . . . your ATTITUDE! How you approach your recovery mentally is equally as important as your exercise regime. Best wishes to you for a speedy recovery! I live in South Central Wisconsin. If you live in or near this area please email me and perhaps we can ride together in the Spring. sabre-girl@juno.com. Happy holidays! Jennifer (note from Mama: thanks for reminding us all on the importance of our physical health and your notes to Barb on her successful recuperation.) Monday, December 20 I want to encourage you to dream vividly about being on your bike and take time to heal. Your body will let you know. I had abdominal surgery in July and couldn't imagine why I wouldn't be riding in a couple of weeks. Well, two weeks post-op I could still barely walk, driving a car was very uncomfortable, and riding was out of the question. A month post-op I finally felt ready for a ride. I warmed up around the neighborhood until I was ready for traffic. I was on the little thumper and the vibration made the incision hurt. Next ride I took the big bike and it made all the difference, but I still felt enormous fatigue from a short ride. Remember, major surgery severs the energy pathways that run through the surgery site and all those systems are having to make repairs and try to function at the same time. Good luck, Barb. Let us know how you are doing. Petra, I wish you every blessing and happiness in the coming year. You are certainly a blessing to all around you. Peace, Sarah (note from Mama: thank you for sharing your thoughts on recovery time and that it's normal to lose vital energy during recuperation. Yes, healing properly is the best medicine and getting back on the bike will eventually happen and whatever has to be "relearned" will come again! ) |
| © 2001-2004 VTwin Mama | Disclaimer |
