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2005Tuesday, January 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Pete, Monday, February 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, I so much want to train in a parking lot on my Shadow ACE 750. If you know of anyone willing to get me across the street, lol, to practice and work with me so I can take the test at DMV. Please let me know. I so much want to ride. – Maggy Dear
Maggy, Friday, February 11 Hello
Petra, Dear
Maria, Glad you’re enjoying your visits to my site . . . it’s nice to know that I can be of some help. Why not join my Opt In/Opt Out Rider’s List . . . I have one other listing for a gal in PR (yes, I know, big island, but hey, you never know!). And there’s also a listing on the Ride My Own Site for PR. At least diehards will know how to get a hold of you! Good luck on your beginning runs . . . what better way to enjoy the Island of Enchantment than on a motorcycle for the Adventure of a Lifetime! – Mama Friday, February 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Bryan, Friday, February 18 Dear
VTwin Mama, I know the bike isn't for long distance, it's just for learning. One day I want to be riding a VStar. I feel like I have made the right decision for a new rider, don't you agree? Also, could you please direct me to some women in my area that would want to ride with me this spring . . . I live in the central part of Connecticut. I am excited and nervous but I just can't wait to get on the bike and leave all my worries behind. Thanks for the great newsletter. – Sandra Hatch Dear
Sandra, Now, check my Women's Site page for women's riding organization links, which will then lead you to their local state chapters. I've also have a couple of Connecticut women riders listed on my Let's Ride page and don't forget to visit the Ride My Own site map page with more women riders listed! Send out some emails and get connected! You're going to have a GREAT year! And thanks for mentioning that you like my weekly Newsletter. I do try to offer news you can use, cool links, best of the site, and other tidbits. Readers, this is a great way to support the time I put into this site (and get stuff that makes a difference to you as a rider)! – Mama Tuesday, May 3 Another suggestion for Beginning Rider who is seeking out riding buddies: Dear Mama: just to let you know I PASSED!!! (a big YAHOO to you!) So very happy and was reading your beginner's woes about not having a riding partner. My suggestion, is maybe go to the MSF course and check out the riders there. Some already have bikes or are in the process of getting them and need riders to hang-out with also. I got a couple of names from women who were at the course site from different classes that were interested in the same. Check out your local CHP course tracks too. Good luck. – Kathy (note from Mama: thanks for the reminder! Yes, I've had readers let me know that they've met other riders through their course. I'll keep that advice in mind for future responses!) Wednesday, May 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, I am now looking into taking my dog Keaira with me on rides. I also would love to chat with other girls that find themselves riding on their own and would like to find out about upcoming events around Calgary I could go to. Any help would be really appreciated. – Dawne Dear
Dawne, Meanwhile, a great chat forum for women riders can be found at ShinnySideUp.com and depending on the make/model of bike you have, their are forums specific to you and your bike (Delphi Forums is one often mentioned). Also, did you know that there is a woman riding magazine published in Canada?!?!?! Yup, it's Sister Cycle and you'll love this quarterly (as do many Americans as well!). On their site you'll also find the Events link, which will help you identify rallies you may wish to go to. Last, but not least, contact the publication by emailing contact@sistercycle.com. Hope this information gets you started! – Mama Thursday, May 26 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lowrider Mama, Sunday, May 29 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Elaine, Dear
VTwin Mama, I went out with my friend Denise in early evening traffic this week and realized why I was having such a good time. She was blocking for me! I thanked her and let her know I realized this and hoped I didn't make it harder on her having to deal with my being slower. Her response (so great) 'they shouldn't be going that fast anyway'. What a great friend. She said I was progressing and to work on pushing my boundaries just a little bit more each time I go out. I am trying to do that on my own. Working on being comfortable at 20, then, 25 and 25-30mph on busier streets, but still quite early in the day. Going above 30-35mph is still intimidating right now. I want to get more comfortable in busier times of the day and more people will probably be available to ride with me if I can ride later than 6 or 7AM! But it is a great way to get the day started! Hence my first question. Riding clubs seem to be more focused on people with experience which I completely understand and appreciate for safety reasons. I am looking forward to being ready for that. One mile at a time right now. So how do you get more experience and push your boundaries a little more each time without overdoing it? Having people block for me would be helpful as I progress and work on getting more comfortable with going faster. Are there are clubs or an organization you recommend who cater to helping very new people and goldmine if you know of any in the Chicago area? I also heard about a course called SRTT (Street Rider Technical Training) which I am not sure how advanced the riders skills are expected to be. I have asked the school who offers the class and awaiting their feedback on this question. First hand experience with this course would be even better from anyone who can give advice on what to expect and when to actually consider taking the course, would be great. I have a second question. What do you suggest to minimize windshield glare? Do others have an issue with this or am I just not used to it yet. I have the stock windshield on the Silverado, I think 21". I see just below the top of the windshield and have to consciously straighten up to look over the top. Will going to a shorter windshield be better since I am 5'4"? I hate to swap it out so soon, but willing to make the bike more suitable to fit me. I tried riding without the windshield today and liked it after I got used to the feeling. Pros and cons. I realized how nice the windshield blocks the wind and will be necessary when I finally do get going faster for highway or longer rides (thinking ahead!). – VStar Sandra in Chicago Dear
VStar Sandra, The SRTT course is specific to the Ride Chicago Motorcycle School, but this page gives a basic description. It's all riding time in a safe environment and I think you would benefit from it greatly and the only requirements are your M license, your own bike (!), $125, and the desire to learn! Each club has members who are willing to give of their time in different ways. Why not contact the two gals in Chicago on my Let's Ride page and see if they are willing to work with you. At the very least, you would be in touch with local gals who you can share with and help guide you on local clubs they like, etc. This would broaden your perspective. As to the windshield, you should not be looking through it, but over it, without having to shift your "normal" body position. Instead of buying a new one, why not find a company that can trim that current windshield down, because it can be done! Check with an independent bike shop. Keep going Sandra . . . you are well on your way to becoming a great rider! – Mama Friday, July 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Anon, Friday, July 8 For VStar Sandra in Chicago who is seeking riding clubs who welcome inexperienced riders: I am a newbie rider in the Chicago area. I have found a great group of women who are from all around Chicagoland. We are called The Northern Illinois Chrome Divas. There are some very experienced riders, but there are many newbies. All the women give great encouragement to the new girls. I am still stuck on my turns, so have not ridden with them yet, but have gone to the monthly meetings. I am planning on riding with them on the July ride. Sandra, I know you would enjoy these women, they are great! – Lee from Chicago Burbs (note from Mama: I've heard many good things about the Chrome Divas . . . thanks for pointing out the specific chapter!) Tuesday, July 26 Dear
VTwin Mama, Well, just wondering if you know of any site nearer to my home that I can hook up with in my quest to get my first baby and be in the wind. Sadly I am a bit rusty and all the "old skool" have vanished no local pubs or anything. (sob) and around me people just think I'm crazy (hmm what's normal then). Anyways, thanks for great reading and I have put on my favs. Ride safe, be free. – Marion Russell, aka Mad Mazz Dear
Marion Tuesday, August 30 Hi Mama, Dear
Terri, Wednesday, September 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, I love it but I'm looking to upgrade parts on my bike but can't find any. I have a 2005 ZZR600. I'd love to change out the back fender, mirrors, shield etc... I'm also looking for performance parts. Are there companies that carry this stuff or am I just lame??? There's tons for the other bikes. Do you know the horsepower . . . I can't find it anywhere. I'm in the Pasadena area of LA and am looking for other women to ride with. I have a sport bike and have only been riding about 5 months but am very aggressive, well, mayby not very, but more than most I think. I ride for fun but am taking a racing class in Dec. I can't wait!!!!!! – mtbbetty Dear mtbbetty, As for upgrades, why not try Kawasaki online. There you will see what's available to the dealers . . . please note that sometimes the newest models don't immediately come with upgrades available and the aftermarket companies tend to lag by a year depending on the make/model. As for meeting gals to ride with, you can try my Let's Ride page and also hop onto the Women's Sites page for listings of women's riding organizations and also Internet sites specifically for sporty women riders, which would then have their own discussion forums, etc. – Mama Monday, October 3 New Women's Riding Club in NY I would like to link our club, Cycle Sisters MC on your site, and yours on ours . . . you have a great site :) We are very proud of our new club. We are located on Long Island, NY and our meetings are held, for the time being, at my house . . . I am centrally located to my club members. Thanks, Bonnie, President, Cycle Sisters MC Dear
VTwin Mama, We met at a town 40 miles from my home, and then went on my first poker run. There were 38 bikes on the run and it was apx. 130 miles total. The members hung near the rear with me so I would feel comfortable. So nice. Anyway, enjoyed it a lot and can't wait for winter to come and go so I can go on many more. Like my mama said (she's 82) "It's ok that you ride a motorcycle, just don't ride with those biker gangs who wear those funny things on their heads!" Ha! Well, many of the people who were on the poker run did wear those funny things on their heads, and I couldn't have met nicer people anywhere. My ride home was so enjoyable. I was by myself, and the farmers were in their fields harvesting corn. A beautiful sight as the sun goes down! Just thought I would share this experience with you. Every day I get more comfortable with my bike. Ride Safe! – Penney from Iowa Dear Penney, About my riding, my own Mama (who is 74) just says, "I don't want to get a phone call." So I make sure to continue to polish my riding skills, to be vigilant while riding, pay attention to the needs of the bike in terms of maintenance, let others help me when needed, and not jump to conclusions about how a rider or their bike looks (!) but doing so without sacrificing my own safety. I could easily envision you finishing that ride on your own through the farmlands, savoring the joy of a good ride and new friends. Yahoo! There's nothing like a happy letter to make my day! – Mama Tuesday, November 15 Dear
VTwin
Mama, Dear
Mary, Thursday, January 26 Hi
VTwin
Mama, We have a wonderful time, cruising. She checks out all the dogs she sees and gets excited whenever we cruise near the beach - can we go for a swim, pleeese! I intend to enroll Tess to the Dogs on Bikes club. Love your website - it's an inspiration to all women motorcyclists. I'm an accountant by day, and a motorcyclist all the rest of the time. We ride with the Ulysses Club, a club for those experienced in life. To be a junior member you have to be 40, and can only be a full member when you attain the mature age of 50. We have over 30,000 members, Australia wide. We ride most weekends. A wonderful lifestyle, Mama. Best wishes, – Susan Warlow-Davies Dear
Susan, Dear VTwin Mama, Right now, I ride alone. I don't like to feel the "wind in my hair" because I don't want brain matter on the road if something unfortunate happens. I ride in full textile, summer and winter (I have summer gear that stays relatively cool), I don’t smoke (severely allergic to smoke and have asthma..), and will not drink while riding. Couple that with my full-face helmet and gear and I somehow don't quite fit in. I love the solitude, the sights and sounds of the ride, but am now finding myself interested in finding some camaraderie. Perhaps even attend a few rallies. I am not interested in attending rallies where the prime purpose for women is to participate in the wet-t-shirt contests and look at tattoos. I am looking for rallies with substance (if there is such a thing.) Any advice? – MommyDBA (that's database administrator!) Dear
MommyDBA, There are a number of national-level women's riding organizations, which can be found on my Women's Sites page. Check for local chapters and introduce yourself. Each chapter is going to have different types of riders, so even if you don't "mesh" with every member, you may meet at least one person who has potential for great friendship. One new riding friend is worth it's weight in gold! Also, check my Let's Ride page . . . listings are by city/state/country and you may want start by checking if a VTwin Mama sister is near you. Make contact, say hi, go ride! The big news this year is The AMA/FIM International Women & Motorcycling Conference in Athens, GA June 30-July 3. That will be followed by the Women on Wheels 20th Annual International Ride-In at the same location from July 4-6. Depending on where you live, this may be of great interest . . . a chance to mingle with a wide variety of women, attend discussions and lectures, visit vendor booths, go on rides, and more! I can guarantee that there won't be any wet T-shirt contests! – Mama Monday, February 6 Women's Riding Organization in South Central U.S. Dear VTwin Mama, Tuesday, February 7 Hi Mama, thanks for the great forum you provide for motorcycle enthusiasts. This is in response to MommyDBA on the hooking up page. Waving frantically over here, over here. I too always wear full protective gear because I am important to the people that love and count on me to be there for them everyday. You sound just like me and I would love to hear from you. I can be reached at purpleponygal@yahoo.com I just recently made a move to South Carolina so I could selfishly indulge my passion and ride every day!! Am a fairly new rider, contact me if you would like, or anyone else for that matter. I love hearing from other female riders. – purpleponygal (note from Mama: see, you aren't alone!) Wednesday, February 8 Like you, I too am a full cover rider. I don’t go anywhere without my riding jacket, gloves, chaps, boots and helmet. It may get a little hot on those sunny days, but I prefer being protected as best I can should I take a tumble. The bottom line that every rider has to answer one question - what risk am I willing to take today? For every rider that risk is different. I hope that you find a riding buddy who accepts your view of risk as I hope you’ll accept theirs. Feel free to drop me a line if you’d like to share sauna stories. You can reach me at stazzibassin@comcast.net – Stazzi (note from Mama: thanks for letting MommyDBA know that she is part of a bigger group than she may have originally realized!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Evelyn, You might also find a mentor by contacting the local chapters of women's riding organizations. Hop onto my Women's Sites page, click on links, find the chapters, send an email, say hi, and see if someone is willing to meet you at a practice lot to work on skills. It's a good step either way, as you'll find kindred spirits to start sharing your adventure with! I'll also note that there is at least one VTwin Mama sister in your area listed on my Let's Ride page . . . you could make contact and just ask about possible help! – Mama Thursday, March 23 For Jess who was looking for a women's riding organization in Columbia, SC: The Motor Maids have a member in Columbia, SC. The Motor Maids are divided by districts; ours is the NC/SC district. Our ladies are spread out all over NC & SC. We would be happy to get in touch with any NC or SC ladies looking for someone to ride with. Ride safe, – Sarah-Anne C. Mikles, Assistant District Director NC, Motor Maids, Inc., Winston-Salem, NC, cell# 336-682-1480 (note from Mama: good to hear from you and thanks for giving Jess the heads up on this!) Dear VTwin Mama, Plus, I
find that my female friends are so fearful that I can’t even share my
excitement with them. They think I am crazy and they can’t get past
telling me that I need to be careful. I’m a 47 year young, harp playing,
Psychology studying mother of three for heaven’s sake and I am
surrounded by fearful “in the box” thinkers that are raining ALL OVER
my parade. I have
had my bike in third but have not gotten it up past 30 mph. Everything is
still so deliberate . . . starting, gear changing and stopping that is. I
ride for about 30 minutes and I am ready for a rest as every aspect of my
being is spent!!!!! BUT I LOVE IT!!!!! Dear Susan, People raining on your parade is part of the process. While they may appreciate poetry, then don't understand that riding a motorcycle is poetry in motion. To them a car may just be transportation, and a bike a form of transportation that is risky at best. And yes, it's a pill that you can't share all your feelings with the very people who you have shared so much of your life with already. That said, you're right, it's time to seek out women riders who are simpatico with your new adventure! I think you will find local chapters of just about every women's riding organization in your area, so venture onto my Women's Sites page and look them up. Send an email, attend a meeting, introduce yourself, and see if a mentor possibility evolves. The VTwin Mama Mentors are excellent for email chat and I know a number of new riders have benefited from having a one-on-one cheerleader no matter where that mentor actually is. I don't know if any of them are actually in your area. I do have a number of "sisters" listed on my Let's Ride page in the NJ area . . . again, send an email and see if anyone is available and willing to join you on beginning level rides. I wish you well for your upcoming course! – Mama Monday, April 24 Dear VTwin Mama, If there are any riders in or around the Savannah, Georgia area (relocating in May), who would like to take me under their wing, I would love to hear from them!! – Finally Purchased First Motorcycle!! Dear Finally, There is no reason why you can't start making contact
with women riders in your upcoming new hometown! Check my Let's
Ride page, a list of women by city/state, and also hop onto my Women's
Sites page to find the links to women's riding organizations. Get a
sense of their rules, meeting schedules, and such and then send emails and
say hi and tell them something about yourself. When you finally move,
you'll be ready to meet women in person and continue your riding with a
support team ready to help! –
Mama Monday, May 8 Mama, I have a request. We are having
a bike rally here in Huntsville, Alabama. It is the first annual Rocket
City Motorcycle Rally for UCP (United Cerebral Palsy). It is
going to be on May 19-21, 2006 at John Hunt Park. The gates open at
4pm on Friday, 10am on Saturday and on Sunday they are open from 9 until
12 with the blessing of the bikes at 10am. I’ve never done anything like this
(talked about a rally – Dear MommyDBA, Monday, May 15
Dear VTwin Mama, I was scared out of my mind the first time out on the road. I'm guessing that happens to everyone. I'm finding other female riders in the Philadelphia area, and can't wait till I get some more experience and get out on the highway to meet up with them. This time next year I hope to be experienced enough to go to the SC bike week. This forum is great, I've been reading off and on for the last few weeks. I'm lucky to have a friend who builds bikes and races, so, he's taking care of my maintenance, but I'm working along side so I can learn. Anyone on MySpace, give me a shout at www.myspace.com/ekollars . Hopefully we can get together in the Philly area and ride. – Beth Kollars Dear Beth, Dear VTwin Mama, Liebe (Dear) Pauline, How wonderful to hear from a young woman rider looking
for other women in order to share in the joy of riding a motorcycle! Have
you seen the Women's International Motorcycle Association? They have a German
chapter which can be found by visiting this page and have
approximately 340 members. I would visit this site and make contact. I
hope this helps! –
Mama Thursday, June 8 For Pauline in Germany who is looking for other women to ride with: I had to drop in and say "Wie Gehts!" Meine Eltern haben eingewandert aus Deutschland in 1952. (How are you doing! My parents immigrated from Germany in 1952.) My German is horrible and that was my best effort, so I'll move to English. I live in the US, but am glad to learn there are other German girls out there who ride. Wilkommen und Bis Spater! (Welcome and until later!) – Monica (note from Mama: my parents came to the U.S. in 1954! Thanks for letting Pauline know she has found caring people here at VTwin Mama!) Tuesday, June 13 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Solo, Otherwise, hope onto my Women's
Sites page, and there you will find links to all sorts of national and
international women's riding organizations. And remember, you can always
call around to the nearest dealers and ask what's going on in terms of
organized rides . . . they may be co-ed, but solo women riders may
be there, and then you can introduce yourself! –
Mama Wednesday, September 20 Dear VTwin Mama, I am just curious if there are any other women riders in the Dothan, AL area. I see a few once in a while but not many. My husband and I ride mostly on back roads so maybe that is why I don't see many. If there are any out there and they want to chat, I can be reached at camysworld@yahoo.com. – C.W. from Hartford Dear C.W., Monday, October 2 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Linda, Readers, Linda was just itching to contact those on the Let's
Ride page (the SIS logo and link are posted there), but we agreed that
netiquette is important. So, if you are interested in meeting sister
riders, are looking into women's riding organizations, or are interested
in starting a chapter in your area, I think you'll find that SIS is an
exciting organization well worth consideration. Sisters
in Spirit Motorcycle Association for Women. –
Mama Tuesday, November 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear LadyRider947, I can appreciate that seeking out other women riders nearer your age can heighten the joy, as sharing that way does bring in another component of being able to converse with someone who understands your "age culture." So, while I find that I learn and share wonderfully with all age groups, there's nothing wrong with wanting to seek something more specific! There are a number of pathways at your disposal. First, hop onto my Women's Sites page and there you'll find links to women's riding organizations. Look for a chapter near you and say hi. You may also wish to visit my Let's Ride page and say hi to those women riders in your area who are sharing their email addresses. An extension to that page can be found on my new VTwin Mama Message Board, which has a thread in the General Chat area, but there is also a specific Let's Ride section organized by state and country which you may wish to post to. There's a lot of excitement building up on the upcoming Biker Ally Rally . . . why not ask Rain if she'll be posting something about riders headed to that and how to hook up. If not, you may want to start a thread on my Message Board, maybe title it Biker Ally Rally, and let's get a dialog started there! You could let Rain know you've done that to aid in her rally. She has so much already on her planning plate and this would be one way to help! – Mama Hi VTwin Mama, Dear Deb, Thursday, December 7 From Deb who was looking for the MAWMR site: Hi, I was directed to the new Mid-Atlantic Women's Motorcycle Rally website so I thought I'd share since your site still has their old one listed. The new site is: http://www.mawmr.org/index_1.html. Thanks, take care, – Deb (note from Mama: goodie . . . thanks for letting me know!) Tuesday, February 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, What a day! We had a sharp turn in the weather. Consequently we only had 54 riders turn out. Even so, it was a wonderful day for newbies and old timers alike. Since it turned cold, the ride was shortened from 120 to 80 miles round trip. We also changed the lunch destination to Cindy's Gone Hog Wild. After plenty of time early on to socialize and sign in, we had a rally speech by Jean Mishler, the wonderful woman who coordinated the event. She and her team were tireless in making sure everyone was well equipped, organized and ready to have fun! As often happens with large groups, several bikes had mechanical problems at the last minute, and CTHD jumped in to help. In all, 3 bikes were repaired, washed and dried and returned to their owners in time for the ride, all at no cost to the rider. 2 women representatives for the Harley Davidson headquarters in Milwaukee Joined us for the ride as well. Men of the local H.O.G. chapter did a wonderful job as "Road Slaves" early in the day, helping to organize bike parking and grouping. They split the women up into 5 groups, each with an experienced female Road Captain and Sweep. Each group reviewed hand signals and emergency procedures, then we were off. The final group to depart was the local L.O.W. (Ladies on Wheels) Riders. I rode with this group as a prospective member. The ride was mixed, we had city and country roads, a little road construction and normal traffic conditions. The rain held off, and finally gave up after lunch, so that our ride back to the dealership after lunch was warmer and blessed with bright sunshine. Our arrival was true to it's name, and awaiting us were cookies by the dozen and hot chocolate by the gallons! Women from all walks of life and all styles of bikes joined together to share the love of riding. Many of us made new friends and learned new roads. I heard one woman proclaim she had only been riding 4 weeks, and had never ridden more than 10 miles. That was me not long ago, and I got to share her excitement all over again. – Jojo Dear
Jojo, Wednesday, February 14 New SIS Chapter Forming Hi
VTwin Mama, SIS has 3 members in KC . . . and though we are just starting out together we are glad to have sisters to share the riding experience with. If you are interested in joining our riding adventures this next riding season just let me know. Even though we may be geographically challenged we are determined to grow and have good clean fun. We will figure out when and where to meet up even though we may live far apart. We are an association that does not drink or do drugs while riding and we are a family friendly group. You can e-mail me at kjjones@polsinelli.com. – Kerri J. Jones, State Director - Missouri, www.sisriders.com Dear
Kerri, Thursday, February 15 Dear
VTwin Mama, It is the largest women focused type bike event in the Atlanta, Georgia area and is hosted by Virtuous Women MC and presented by CMD Promotions (bikers). It mainly caters to female bikers but thousands of male bikers attend and race also. It draws bikers and clubs from all over the east and southeast. Friday the 16th is a meet and greet at Dugan's Tavern in Stone Mountain, GA at 8pm, Saturday are the races at Troup County Dragway in LaGrange, GA starting at 10am, and Sunday is the farewell breakfast from 7:30am to 10am. Thanks and please pass the word. – McGuyver Dear
McGuyver, Monday, February 26 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Minnie, Dear
VTwin Mama, Our
founding members placed an ad in the Village Voice and held the Dear
Donna, Wednesday, March 7 For Donna at Sirens Women's Motorcycle Club in NYC: Great website! I enjoyed visiting it. Dear
VTwin Mama, We have several events coming up. We will be heading to North Carolina from July 5 - 9 to 'tame' the Tail of the Dragon! If you, your friends or your motorcycle organization would like to join us to tame it, please feel free to do that but you, your friends or your club would have to arrange for your own traveling & lodgings. To make plans to meet before or after the rides, contact NESilentRiders@aim.com There's another event in May 2007. Please check out website and click on Northeastern Silent Riders on the left column. Hope to see you there! – Patty Trowbridge, aka PLT Dear
Patty, Monday, April 23 Spirit Ride Summer Gathering August 24-25 Hi
Petra, Thanks VTwin Mama for your support of lady riders. – Linda Blankenship, National Director, SIS Tuesday, May 29 Hi Petra, Sounds like you're doing very well . . . and for that I'm very happy. Keep up the great work! BTW, I'm only not subscribing right now because I simply haven't had time to "sit and read." Heck, retired now and have less time than when I worked!! Go figure! Enclosed is a pic of my current ride . . . a '05 Yamaha Silverado 1100 Classic. Thanks for everything you do! – Barb Dear
Barb, How wonderful to hear that your retirement is chock-full of exciting adventures . . . I'm just waiting for "me too, me too" and hoping that in two years time, I'll be on the road all the time in an RV with bikes, my love Marty, and VTwin Mama! That's right, hoping to take VTwin Mama on the road and really connect on an even more personal level! Hey, a sister can dream! – Mama Friday, June 8 Hi
Mama, This YouTube link is a video montage of pics I took while on the ride. I send this for your and the VTM readers' entertainment! Hugs, – Jojo Dear
Jojo, Thursday, June 14 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Left Out, Now, if I got this wrong, I apologize. If you in fact do have many years/miles under your belt, your husband's friend may perceive that a 250cc can't keep up speed-wise . . . I don't necessarily agree with that assessment, but you would be winding out your engine if they were doing highway time. It's up to you to talk with your husband (if he agrees that's what it was all about). Is it possible they just wanted some guy time? Absolutely. What's the answer . . . get some gal time! Hop onto my Women's Site page and look for independent and national women riding organizations and get in contact with a local group! Also, check my Let's Ride list to see if a VTwin Mama Sister is in your area . . . then email her! There is no reason for you to sit on the sidelines . . . plan your own stuff . . . a good idea whether you are new or experienced! – Mama Tuesday, June 26 Hey VTwin Mama, I work for an internet TV company called VBS ( www.vbs.tv ) and we do all types of fringe media stories like sneaking into Baghdad to cover the story of a heavy metal band or running to Pakistan to find out about illegal arms markets. Well this time we went to Ohio, and found a group of ladies who call their bike club Uncontrollable Women. It's a group of girls doing their best to have a good times and ride bikes. We meet the ladies and follow them through their memorial ride for one of their fallen riders who was killed by a drunk driver. Uncontrollable
Women - Part 1 of 4 Parts 3 and 4 will run Wednesday and Friday. Given your blog and its nature, thought it would be cool content. Love to know what you think, – Rory Dear
Rory, Monday, July 23 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Ready To Ride, If area chapters of national organizations are not in line with what you're thinking, you may wish to check for newer organizations that are looking to spread their reach so that you can be part of something bigger. If you hope onto my Women's Sites page, you'll find a number of these whose mission may match yours! I'm sure you'll quickly recognize the ones you have heard about before. If your intent is to start afresh locally and expand your idea through other chapters, then I'm not exactly sure what you would need to do. That would be about whether your organization would be considered a hobby, a non-profit or a small business. There I would suggest you contact your local Small Business Administration office and talk it out a bit. What ever route you decide on, then it's up to you to spread the word, through established websites, discussion forms, magazines, local dealerships, etc. It takes a lot of dedication for all of this, but it sounds like you're up for the effort and challenge. – Mama Tuesday, September 25 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
CHW-Z, Share
Your Thoughts Wednesday, October 17 Dear
VTwin Mama, My question is do you know if any are even based in Ohio? We don't think anyone will come from very far since this is a somewhat smaller show than lets say the Easy Rider vendor show in Columbus, Ohio. We are donating all our proceeds to our local shelter for battered men, women, and children, The Lighthouse. I have been searching the web, but mostly getting general companies that carry all accessories and not in Ohio. Do you have any input that might help? I know you are an extremely busy lady, but thought you might have some advice or a lead or two. Thanks for your time, – Mona Dear
Mona, Once you've got a master list together, I would approach the local shops by calling and setting up a meeting with the manager/owner. Be prepared to talk about set-up logistics (heck, February in Ohio must mean you'll be indoors, right?), how you'll be promoting the show, but also bring specific thoughts on what they might showcase (i.e. how about setting up 1/2 hour information seminars on different subjects like helmet fit, a demo on how tires differ, motorcycle maintenance, picking up a motorcycle, and things like that). Another idea might be to contact the big aftermarket companies like J&P Cycles and Dennis Kirk and arrange to have a quantity of their catalogs on hand in a special section. Even companies that say no on attending will most likely be glad to offer brochures and informational materials that would go a long way to having a variety of material on hand. Not as good as having a rep there, but still better than nothing. Of course I'd also be opening up the Yellow Pages and checking for all the clothing, boot, and such shops in the area as well. Any readers with more ideas should chime in! Don't forget to email back when you've got the date and particulars ready to announce! – Mama Tuesday, November 6 Dear Readers The newest addition ... the Annual WITW Alberta Rally in August ... – Mama Tuesday, November 13 Hi Petra, I passed my MSF in Aug, and now have my license, but have been riding as soon as I received my learners permit in July. Some observations I have had on taking the MSF class are: it is very helpful if you have had experience working a clutch shift previously, as it tunes you in to the concept of the rhythm of clutch, shift and gas. Also I did some concentrated afternoons of practice riding in my local college parking lot, with my very patient hubby. Just 2-3 afternoons, but enough to get my confidence up to go out into the neighborhood and drive back and forth and around a real road. So I wasn't a total bike 'virgin' when I went out on the range for the course. This made an enormous difference for me. The only other woman in my class had never been on a bike except behind her boyfriend, had a really hard time, and did not pass. Before I did all that I bought a bike which really fit me (I'm 5' 7") - she's an '02 Honda Shadow ACE 750. I bought her from a gal about my size, her husband had lowered the seat for her. So it was a very good fit from the start. Which is what I wanted for my first bike. I really didn't want to do a whole lot of fiddling before I could start riding her. All the other models I had looked at felt very uncomfortable either in the handle bar reach, or the way the seat felt, some of the Harley's tanks were so fat it hurt my inner thighs. Any way my question is: The bike came with aftermarket loud pipes, and they also gave me the stock pipes. My husband (he has a V-Star 1100) thought the sound was too loud, and was a bit distracting, so he took them off, and put the stock pipes back on. But since then when I am riding she makes a little backfiring sound, sort of like soft popping from time to time when I am downshifting. At the time I was too uninformed to ask these kind of questions to the seller, but does this relate to changing the pipes? I think I am ready for the loud pipes back on, I can barely hear the stock pipes, and I don't think they will be too distracting for me. Also, I have read all the pros and cons of loud pipes and I think they are a good thing if you have them. Since getting my license, I have conquered my goal of up and over and through the hairpin turn on the Mohawk trail here in Western MA. I am looking to create a woman's riding club in this area. So far it is just me on the rider's map! Any one out there? Thanks for all you do to promote riding for Women. I'm 51 years old, previously only a pillion rider, but you gave me a lot of get up and go to do it, now I'm having such a blast riding and meeting some great new friends. – Susan in Deerfield, MA. Dear
Susan, I agree that the pros and cons of louder pipes is important to consider and I'm guessing the downside for your hubby (with the louder aftermarket pipes) were that when one follows such a bike, they get the brunt of the noise! It can be tiring following this, as many friends pointed out to me when I had my third bike, a HD Superglide with straight pipes. Ouch! In changing to the stock pipes, that little bit of backfire you're hearing is caused because the air to gas mix is a bit rich and unspent fuel is entering the exhaust system and pops when it hits those heated pipe chambers. A small adjustment to the mix at the carb should solve this. Usually, when a motorcycle is outfitted with aftermarket pipes, the carb is re-jetted (a slightly larger jet orifice to allow more gas flow), so if you did stick to the stock pipes, you might have to rejet to the original one. I'd also double check the condition of the metal gaskets where the pipes meet the frame. They can lose their sealing ability and new gaskets are called for (your change might have been done with the old gaskets). It could also just be that these connections are not completely tight, letting in a bit of air, a classic sign of popping on the downshift. The VTwin Mama Let's Ride Map is the newest addition to the line-up of getting connected to one another! It's only a few months old at this point, so a new system. To double check, you can go to the old Let's Ride list and see who might be in your area. Of course, this map and list only show those who opt in to the systems, so I would expand my search for women's chapters in your area already formed (if you haven't done so already). Those are listed on my Women's Sites page. And just because "headquarters" aren't exactly near you, doesn't mean that there aren't members near you ... I joined the closest group I could find, which is about 50 miles away ... but that's doable for me! – Mama 8Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Judy, On my old, but not yet phased out Let's Ride list, I see some possibilities, so check that out! – Mama Monday, January 28 For Judy looking for a women's riding group at/near Worcester/MA: I was on your web site and noticed someone was looking for a woman's
riding group from In response to Judy's question about female motorcycle organizations in Worcester, THANKS for your reply to her!!! I live in the Sturbridge area, so I'll be checking them out soon!! She might also want to contact Women on Wheels -- this is an excerpt of their reply to me when I emailed them: "I am the State Ambassador for MA WOW and am always delighted to welcome others who share my passion for motorcycling. We currently do not have a chapter in the Sturbridge area; however, we do have a number of members in the Boston Freedom Riders chapter from the Worcester/Rutland/Holden area. The Freedom Riders next meeting is February 13th at Moto Market in Acton. It would be great if you could join us there." – C.S. (note from Mama: even more excellent news and a reminder that just because a group isn't headquartered exactly near you doesn't mean some members don't come from your area!) Monday, February 4 Hi Petra, I also wanted to comment on the recent open invitation that was sent to you from Karen Huss, Marketing Director for Harley Davidson Sales and Service in Napoleon, Oh. I have met Karen on my last two visits to Women Ride II and Women Ride III. My sister and I have gone the past two years and are planning on going this year. Karen is a very personable young lady and is a very talented organizer. As a matter of fact the folks at the dealership are equally devoted in making this a great event. This is truly on open event. It does not matter if you ride a Harley or any other type of bike, it is just that you’re a lady and you ride. We are made to feel very welcome at this event. I would urge anyone in the Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Michigan area to come join the fun. We made our hotel reservation last year at the event just to make sure we had a room. Maybe we will meet some of our VTwin Mama sisters at Women Ride IV, on May 3rd and 4th. Sincerely, – Marlene Dear Marlene, Thanks for your expanded thoughts on participating in Women Ride IV ... more information links about this event and other women-specific events can be found on my Women's Motorcycle Events page! – Mama Tuesday, February 5 Calling all Women Harley/Buell Riders Going to Daytona Dear VTwin Mama, Harley-Davidson
Daytona Women’s Day Ride Increases Count to 500 MILWAUKEE (February 1, 2008) – On March
4, 2008, in Daytona, Fla., 500 Harley-Davidson women riders will join
together in what the Motor Company believes will be the largest women’s
ride in the Company’s 105-year history. Originally, the Harley-Davidson
Women’s Day Ride, benefiting Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), was
to be limited to 105 women; but after an incredible response from women
riders asking to join the ride, Harley-Davidson decided to increase the
size to accommodate 500 women. The riders will join Karen Davidson,
great-granddaughter of one of the Company’s founders, as well as the six
Get Down to Daytona contest
winners on the last leg of their ride into Daytona. The ride will conclude
at the Women participating in the ride are
encouraged to raise money for their local MDA chapter to help send
children to MDA Summer Camps, and the top three fundraisers will receive a
Harley-Davidson leather jacket. One week at MDA Summer Camp costs $800 per
child, so women who raise that amount or more will receive a unique
Harley-Davidson/MDA sterling silver and gold charm in recognition of their
gold-level fundraising. Women who raise at least $400 will receive a
sterling silver charm. All 500 riders will receive a 2008 MDA
Pin, a special Harley-Davidson/MDA flag and will be entered in a special
MDA drawing for a women’s Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary
leather jacket. Anyone can make a general contribution to the ride at https://secure.mdausa.org/harleywomensride/. For more information about the Get Down to Daytona contest, newly posted profiles of the six winners, details on the women’s activities in Daytona, and more, visit www.harley-davidson.com/womensride. Note From Mama: if you want to join in and need the form, please email me at vtwinmama@vtwinmama.com and I'll email that to you! Tuesday, February 5 Ride Across Maryland, May 31-June 2 Dear VTwin Mama, This year to date, RAM has donated almost $1.2 Million to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The event is a two day fun filled event taking place in Ocean City, MD. Participants will be able to partake in a live entertainment, music, activities, games and of course the check announcement. Participants must raise a minimum of $100 each to participate. To find out more information, please contact us at info@rideacrossmaryland.org or we can be reached in the office at 410-992-9999. – Diana Mitchell, Ride Coordinator Thursday, February 21 AMA Announces 2009 Women & Motorcycling Conference! Dear Readers,
Monday, March 10 Mentoring program being coordinated by Lace Wheels Hello VTwin Mama, Dear Sherry, Update: Sherry is asking if anyone wants to assist in coordinating this idea in countries other than the U.S., please contact her. Also, if you would like to submit a story of how you learned to ride or about a mentor that made a difference to you, please contact her as well ... Tuesday, March 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Becky, In searching the Internet, I did not see any other women-specific events in that area at that time, but readers, give me an update if I'm missing something! – Mama Thursday, March 13 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Cindy, Monday, March 31 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Keith, Thursday, April 10 Dear VTwin Mama, If there is anyone out there please contact me. – Janine, 4'8" on a Sportster Dear Janine, Wednesday, May 21 Hi VTwin Mama, Dear Jesse, Tuesday, June 3 Motor Maids and Guests, Cave Spring, GA, June 12-14 Hello
Ladies, All districts, husbands, and guests welcome at 675 McGee Bend Road, Cave Spring, GA. Food and fun will be provided through the weekend. Please RSVP to Ruth at 941-232-5315, 941-474-7236, 706-777-3218; Cindy at 706-777-9993 or Lynn at 615-895-3713. Blue Skies, Ride Safe! – Rose Hale, Georgia Motor Maids Thursday, July 10 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Beth, Also in that area is the Red Hawk Riders chapter of Women on Wheels, headquartered in Crystal Lake. To the west of Chicago suburbs is the Northwind Riders chapter, based in Romeoville. Additional national level and local clubs can be found on my Women's Sites page. Make contact by sending an email, attend a meeting, and there's a decent chance you'll find a member in your area who can mentor you ... the bonus is you'll have a whole new sisterhood to have fun with! – Mama Wednesday, July 23 Dear VTwin Mama, However, when he is not home, the thought of me going out alone still intimidates me, so I end up just going to the corner and back for a total of 4 miles. Unfortunately, he works many weekends and evenings, so I am not getting the practice I want or need. I have a Honda Shadow VLX. I took the MSF course in 2006 and have watched the Ride-Like-Pro Video several times. Just thinking I need more of the "buddy system" to help me shake my fears. Thank you, – Petunia Dear Petunia, For Women On Wheels, it looks like the closest chapter is Dreamseekers, operating out of Genesee County. Now, I know that's the Flint area, but you may find riders from your sector who belong to this chapter. Email and say hi and inquire! Slightly to the north of you is the Northern Angels chapter of Women In The Wind ... in Alger. Same thing ... email and see what's up, when the next meeting is, etc. You can also check my Women's Sites page to do more searching on national level organizations that may be operating a chapter in your area! – Mama Thursday, July 31 Dear VTwin Mama, My question for you is how can I hook up with other female riders in my area? Columbus, Indiana. Do you know of any female motorcycle chapters around here? I'm not opposed to both genders riding together, it's just that I think it would be great to be riding in the wind with a bunch of sisters. Any assistance in this matter would be appreciated. Thanks, – A. Farris Dear A., At a quick glance, I don't see a chapter of Women In The Wind near you, but Women on Wheels has a Indy chapter (Indy's First Ladies) ... you would have to contact national headquarters as there is no website/email link directly to the chapter. I'm not really coming up with anything else ... another idea would be to contact the local Harley-Davidson dealers with HOG chapters ... often there is a Ladies of HOG sub-group. Many allow all types of bikes to ride with them and would also know if there is any other group operating in the area! – Mama Saturday, August 9 Updated Women's Motorcycle Event Calendar Dear Readers, Friday, September 26 New Women's Riding Org in MN, 1st meeting 10/5 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Cheri, Wednesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Sophia, In doing a new search of the area, I noticed that the H-D dealer in Reno will be hosting an all-womens Garage Party on Thursday, October 9th from 6-8pm. This might be of interest to you to attend to meet area women riders and those considering the sport! You can also email Desert Curves, a Women In The Wind chapter out of Reno to learn what they are doing and get a feel for the general layout of chapter organization. Then take it from there! Once you start riding with area women you'll be in position to further explore your ideas on a Latina women-based club, drawing on people you'll meet along the way at regular rides, charity events, poker runs, rallies, the garage party, and motorcycle shows. – Mama Thursday, October 30 Women's Conference, Aug '09, Keystone, CO Dear Readers, For readers of the VTwin Mama site and message board, I have created a section on the message board for those who wish to discuss the conference, including traveling to it, lodging, and getting together. You do not need to register to simply read the board, but register to participate! – Mama
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