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Safety Home
Video: how cars see/don't see riders Motorcycle Operator Manual: PDF format A former course instructor gives you the five key points to remember when approaching test time! |
2002Monday, June 3 Dear VTwin Mama, This is my third time taking the basic course -- I am much more confident and I expect to pass the riding test with flying colors tonight. Thanks for your support, and the support of all of the women that take the time to respond to those of us who are just learning. Keep up the good work! Carrie Dear Carrie, I'm also so proud of you for continuing to take the basic course till you have gained the riding confidence that you seek. Not everything we desire can be attained in one go, so you've shared a very important message -- if it's worth doing and your heart and desire are true to the task, keep at it till you get it right! There are no added points for passing tests without feeling you've really mastered something. Mama Tuesday, June 4 Dear VTwin Mama, By the way, for those people who haven't taken the Basic course or the Experienced course, they have revamped each of those courses. I enjoyed it much more this time around, and I think the skills are more relevant to everyday riding. Thanks again for the support. The web site is great. Carrie Dear Carrie, Friday, June 21 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Jennifer, Wednesday, July 10 Dear VTwin Mama, Here's a question I have not yet seen on the website. While riding, a bird happened to poop right onto my pipe. Oblivious to this, and the weather being hot and of course the pipe was scorching, the bird poop has burnt onto the pipe and I can't remove it!!! I cleaned it and scrubbed at it, but I do not want to scratch my chrome. Any suggestions?? Sharon in NY Dear Sharon, Wednesday, August 7 Dear VTwin Mama, I love your enthusiasm!!! Yesterday, got my license with a "M" on it! I can't believe it! I worked so hard and practiced a lot. I got a lot out of your website and the suggestions of the other mama's I'm practicing, reading your website and other MC publications. My instructor suggested Motorcycle Consumer News, a magazine so I'm getting a trial copy. You are so right, with practice we CAN DO IT!! I'm riding a Honda Shadow 600 and I love it. Shadow Mama (aka Angela) (note from Mama: well today's postings are most definitely about the power of positive thinking, sticking with it and accepting that anything worth achieving takes time, practice and the belief that it is possible. Kudos to you!) Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Shirl, Tuesday, August 13 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Linda, Wednesday, August 21 Dear VTwin Mama, I have just purchased my first bike, which is a Honda VLX600 . . . I am 5'1", 100 lbs., and I purchased a V-Star 650 as my first-ever bike, signed up for the MSF class and passed with flying colors on a 125 Eliminator (even outscored male riders who had been riding for 15-30 years). I came home and had the nerve to jump on my 650 in spite of my instructor's advice to start small. Well, I dropped it three times in my jaunt around the parking lot, and suddenly I shrunk and my 650 grew to a 1500 (in my fear-factor). The next day, my dear husband, not wanting to see my enthusiasm crushed, found a used 1986 Honda 250 Rebel on which I proceeded to put 300 miles and regain my confidence. My V-star salesman told me I could definitely learn to ride my 650 coming straight out of the course, but I would have a greater learning curve than someone who started with a smaller bike. The instructor and the salesman were both right. That was in April 2000. I have now put 3800 miles on my V-Star 650 and am selling it (the Rebel, too) because I have purchased a Volusia 800 as I want to do more cruising. As Mama said, most everyone drops their bike (I have since those first three times), but you can either let that stop you due to fear or you can face that fear, grow as a person and have a lot of fun. If you feel the 600 is too much after you come out of the course, just buy something small and used, gain your confidence, then sell it, and jump on the 600. It's better to take a step backward (and there is NO shame) and be safe than to give up completely. Good luck! Gayle in Bristol, TN (note from Mama: Amen!) Thursday, August 22 Dear VTwin Mama, Hey Shirl----Dropping a bike is like getting a scratch on a new car. It is not a matter of "if it will happen" is "when it will happen" and you have already been there, done that!!!! Relax, take the course, and stay off of your bike until you get your endorsement. I bet you will find out that you probably dropped it because you were going to slow (you mentioned that you were in first gear). You will be hearing "roll on the throttle" in your sleep. Don't get discouraged. I got so
frustrated when I started I vowed I was GOING to get that endorsement, but
I was NEVER going to ride "that stupid bike". Here I am, one
year later, and about 10,000 miles under my belt. Have I dropped my bike
after getting my endorsement --you bet, but it was major, realized my
mistake, brushed myself off and got back on. I have also learned the bike
wasn't stupid, it was me doing stupid stuff. Hang in there Shirl. My first bike was a 1981 Honda CB 750. I bought it having never ridden a motorcycle before. I practiced some in parking lots and dropped it a number of times. It felt very big and wobbly. I took the MSF class and the next time that I rode my bike, it had "shrunk" incredibly! The skills that you're taught in the class are invaluable. Bert (note from Mama: that's an important perspective on the beastie -- it's always meaner, louder, faster and evil when you're starting out!) I feel like I have to share on this one. I took the course in 11/01 on one of those smaller bikes. Then I followed everyone's advice and just went and sat and sat and sat on all kinds and makes of bikes. I for some reason found myself drawn to a 2001 Lowrider. I found that after I brought him home, I too was a bit intimidated at first, almost to the point of being afraid. Every day I would take him out ... even if it was just around the corner, just to tame him so to speak ... lol It was scary at first. I dropped him a few times too, and I think that somewhere there should be a course on how to pick them up!!! Geesch that boy is heavy, but I did it. I just kept on going. Then .. one day .. a friend just showed up .. and while riding alongside of him I got MY WIND AND WAS ONE WITH MY BIKE. For all it is different, but just having the want to ride means that somewhere in you is that wind ... you just have to find out what brings it out!!! Since then I have no fear and ride just about every day, even if it is just to work ... Ride safe Carla (note from Mama: I remember my "magical" moment when everything came together and I achieved one with the bike -- at least in that moment! Then stuff happened! Meanwhile, check my LINKS ARCHIVE for two sites that have pictures and instructions on how to pick up a bike -- and then go out and practice -- it's really not that hard and will boost your confidence a gazillion times!) Girl, you now know you are learning to ride! The first time I dropped my beautiful 650, I could have crawled in a hole and never looked at another motorcycle again! But, alas, I had to get it home somehow, so I rode again...and am still riding. The next three times I dropped it, I laughed at myself because I knew there was SOMETHING I was missing here. Found out what it was (right hand turns being made from wrong side of lane) fixed the problem and haven't dropped it again...yet. Point is, like Mama says, everyone drops their bikes, new riders, experienced riders and big ole' rough looking biker dudes alike. Take the course, figure out what you're doing to make you drop the bike, practice, practice, practice. Learn to laugh at yourself and enjoy the most incredible new lifestyle you can imagine. Babebr aka Joyce (note from Mama: I agree, to be a happy motorcyclist, you've got to learn to roll with the oopies 'cause they are going to happen -- no matter how long you've been at it -- so keep practicing, learning, giggling and sharing -- that's what makes the difference!) I took the Safety Course and did very well on the small bikes, then I came home dropped my brand new Harley Duece 3 times, yes 3 times. The last time I dropped it, my hand revved the throttle up to around 3k rpms, my husband was a nervous wreck, he was certain I was going to kill myself. It took me a few months of nervous moments and many more times of near drops before I finally got it! My beautiful new Purple Duece has a few scratches, but they aren't very noticeable. I managed to come out of it without a scratch. I am having a ball now, still a little uncertain on very slow turns, but I think it all comes with practice. I do agree, you should take the course, it is very useful, especially when you get out in traffic and situations arise. You know the saying, "just do it", it definitely fits here. Have fun and JUST DO IT! V (note from Mama: Amen -- just do it 'cause there are no shortcuts to experience and the lumps and bumps are part of it, as well as good instruction!) I'm another new rider, only took the MSF course on Memorial weekend. Hubby had already bought me a H-D Sportster Hugger and the first time I sat on it after taking the course (on Kawasaki 125's), I was totally intimidated. Took me 4-5 tries to just take off straight! After a few bumps and bruises, several drops (yes, we all drop our bikes at some time - some times more embarrassing than others like dropping it in front of a Harley Owners Group meeting), I now have 750 miles on my bike. I thought I would never get out of the first gear. I did. I thought I would never be able to take-off from a stop without wobbling. I did. I thought I would never be able to take turns from a stop. I did. I thought I would never be able to get out of second gear. I did. I thought I would never be able to go faster then 25. I did. I thought I would never be able to ride in traffic. I did. My last "thought I would never be able to" is ride at night. That will be coming on Sept 11th when we go to Tampa for the Remembrance Ride. Oh, did I mention that I'll be 55 next month and had only ridden on the back of a bike before this? If this non-athletic, slightly over-weight, past middle-aged lady can learn to ride, any one can - if they have the desire!! Donna aka Frogbiker (note from Mama: you go girl -- that's the VTwin Mama spirit and spunk and admitting that it's not always easy, but that doesn't mean it can't be done!) Dear VTwin Mama, Dear NewRider, Thursday, August 29 Dear VTwin Mama, I took the course at Earl Small Harley Davidson, 993 South Cobb Dr. in Marietta 770-919-0000 or the classroom for Scott Whitson 770-919-1703. It is a five days class, Thursday, Friday, Monday 5:30pm to 9:00pm, Sat.& Sun all day 8:00a to 5:00p the time my vary. Ron Barbani is the lead instructor; I called it Motorcycle Boot Camp, if you go tell Ron I said hello. However, the only issue I had was the time wasted pushing Harleys stuff, if you dont mind that, its a great class and the cost $300, yaks! There is also the American Honda Training class in Alpharetta, they offer the Experience Riders Course, also; I have not been there yet, just been riding little over a year. Enjoy TuG aka Thank U God (note from Mama: thanks for places and names) Thursday, August 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Don't give up the ship! Shirl, I dropped my Sportster 7 times in the first year. I think I have a record around here. I talk about it now, but I was really embarrassed at first. Thought I would never learn! "What's wrong with me? Other people seem to just get on and go!" Luckily, there was very little damage, because the dear little girl just kinda laid down for a nap on some tight turns. Only the first drop was a baddie. I broke a bone in my foot. But that healed in time for my first MSF class. The class taught me everything I needed to know, plus stuff that I never would have thought of on my own, so I'm glad I took it. Last summer my awareness of possible problems was so heightened by the course that I began to think I'd never feel safe, and actually thought these guys overdid it in the caution department. But now I recognize that if they didn't harp on covering the clutch and brake at slow speed city driving, riding to your ability, keeping watch at all times, remaining focused, reminding me that "you go where you look", I wouldn't be riding today. I might not even be alive. If you stay in the parking lot you'll probably be okay, if you don't pop the clutch and take off for the nearest parked car. But if you wait for the course, you will be giving yourself a much better foundation, and won't have so many bad habits to unlearn. Hang in there. I've been riding 2 summers now, have about 2500 miles under my belt, and it's definitely worth it. Annie (note from Mama -- yours might be the record -- whose got a higher bid?!) As a fellow rider who has fallen several times, don't give up on yourself. At my motorcycle safety class, I popped a wheelie, almost hit a light pole and nearly ran over the instructor. I also messed up the bike I was riding! Even after all that, I got back on another bike, finished the class, and passed. Falling is nothing. It's the getting back on that's the hard part. Give yourself that chance. Amy (note from Mama -- you are sooo right -- getting back on is the harder part, but also the more rewarding one!) Dont worry about it Shirl!
I am a new rider, went through the course last fall and did not get
to ride much until this summer since we have such few nice days in I too started out (this past March) on a smaller bike (Yamaha Virago 535). I dropped the bike once, and actually skidded on my driveway. I had bruises for a month. But in May I took the Safety Course then rode a couple miles every chance I got. After about 600 miles on the Virago, in July I upgraded to a Harley 883 Custom. Then the nerves started all over again. Luckily they only lasted a day. Shirl, with every mile, you will get more confident. Definitely don't be afraid of your Honda 600. I know you can handle it. We should be so proud of ourselves. We have accomplished a goal that other women would never even try!!!! Keep Smilin (and ridin') Joanne (note from Mama -- Amen to the keep on ridin' thing. Practice is the only path to better riding!) Wednesday, September 4 Dear VTwin Mama, The person I hit was not hurt. As a matter of fact, she shared a worst experience she had going much faster than 5mph. After checking with the person I hit and me, two instructors wanted me to continue the class. They were over-ruled by their boss. Rules are rules. For my mistake, I was thrown out of class. Nobody bothered to tell me how I could have avoided the crash or the proper use of the clutch. Dreams all broken, I went home determined to return and pass the class. For the record, the lady I ran into was also asked to leave the class after she dropped her bike. A second lady was asked to leave because she did something wrong with her clutch. I'm not sure why the other lady was asked leave class. Only the men passed the class. I'm not one to give up easy. I signed up for another class. Ten people attended this class. Six of these people already had motorcycles. Four took the course on their own bikes. Despite myself, I passed the class. Must admit my confidence is not what it was on the first day of class. I have an offer in on a bike. I'll keep you posted. Message three days later: Funny thing happened over the weekend. I gave my phone number to a couple of classmates at both classes and one person from each class call to see how things are going with me. The guy from the first class called to say his Harley arrived and he's ready to break it in. As for the first class I enrolled in which he was a part, he felt the teacher cared more about his bikes (and said so) than teaching us to be comfortable with the bikes. His wife took the course with different instructor and she dropped her bike. Her instructor calmed her down and encourage her to pick it up and keep going. Also, in his wife's class, several people had wayward bikes. The teacher spent more time with them showing them their mistakes and how to correct/save the situation. His wife passed the test and has warned him, she's taking the bike out on her own. What can I say, different teachers, different teaching methods. The guy from the second class called to give me a bit of encouragement too. He's one of the people who already owns a Harley and been riding a little over six months. He assured me that when I start riding at higher speeds, in class I rode at 3 to 12mph, I will have better control of the bike. He promised to help when I get my bike. I'm still eyeing that bike out my window. Bea Dear Bea, As for your confidence level -- hmmmm -- my suggestion is to get in touch with other women riders in your area and get the support you need. Check the links at the bottom of my home page for organizations. Even if you don't have that bike you bid on yet, my guess is that someone will be willing to talk with you, offer support, and maybe even help you test ride some bikes. Give it a shot -- their are so many kind people in this world -- and you'll find them -- don't be shy about asking -- remember, they have been where you are now! As for it being easier to ride when you're going a little faster, I agree. However, eventually you need to master all skills at all speeds, so keep that in mind. And you go girl! Mama Hello Petra, ya VTwin motor mama you! Thought I'd pose a question to your vast quantities of readers. I've asked the same question of my sisters at my board at ShinnySideUp.com and am getting some very valuable information. I thought I'd expand my knowledge from your readers. Some background info first.... My sister-in-law had seen me riding and loving it. She'd been riding pillion and with my encouragement that she could ride her own...went out and bought a brand new VLX600. Her boyfriend was 'teaching' her and though she'd rode dirt bikes as a girl, we that have done so know; street riding on a street bike is a whole different ball game. I advised her that she shouldn't be "taking lessons" from anyone less than an MSF trained instructor and boyfriends, good as their intentions might be... AREN'T gonna be what it takes to learn to ride safely. We all (her, her b/f, my husband and I) went out for a ride and she scared me to no end... when I wasn't afraid of watching her crash, I was worried she was gonna rear end me. Wasn't the funest ride I'd ever done! It came down to... she needed to learn and I was gonna be the one to teach her. But that would put me in the position of doing what I'd preached against... learning from someone that isn't trained to teach. To make a long story short... A light came on for me and though I most likely won't be finished in time to help my sister-in law...I've started the process of becoming a MSF instructor/coach here in Washington state. I hopefully will complete my training by spring of next year and start teaching my own classes then. Now, to my question. What stands out in your mind ladies. Good and bad about your instructors? Anything you would have liked to have changed? And no... I can't make them damn cones go away...but I can take all the teaching tips I can get and ideas for how you would have liked to have had the class be better for you? I'm looking for 'what made the difference' in your learning. What insights from your personal experiences would you have an instructor/coach know? I'm very excited and a bit intimidated at the responsibility of being a teacher. But I KNOW, this is what I'm here for. My own riding has surpassed levels I'd never thought I'd be able to achieve since I started learning to teach! Any and all help/insight will be very much taken to heart! You're welcome to e-mail me directly @ HammerLady@ShinnySideUp.com. Thank you Petra for letting me use your awesome site to advance myself and future VTwin Mamas. Terry aka HammerLady Dear Terry, Thursday, September 5 Dear VTwin Mama, Let's
see...I took the MSF course...started it 3 times - first time I fell off on a
left turn - reschedule. Next attempt - I popped the clutch and almost ran over
my instructor. Third time (I don't know when to quit!) - I made it thru even though
I lost control of the bike and hit another student....passed, got my license
and bought a Sportster. I dropped it 3 times the first day I took it out, a
couple more times before I did the big one - turned left without leaning
enough - hit the guard rail and flipped over it into the dirt - broke my wrist
and had a concussion! But I had all the right clothing on (thanks to the
course) and 2 months later - I am riding and am more confident and much more
cautious, and aware of everything. It was hard getting back on - real hard but
this is what I want to do, and I have gotten past that horrid fear of it. Why
do we do something that we are afraid of? It is a challenge and a huge
accomplishment to conquer these machines, and the reward is a great feeling of
independence and awareness of the world - a feeling of being alive. (and a
great way to get away from whining teenagers!) Dear Lauralea, I always remember that I never want to look back and ask "what if." I also remember that the greatest risk is not taking one. We can't possibly grow if we play it safe all the time. Still, I like the angel thing and promise to keep mine in sight! So, it's ok to make mistakes and share them. Actually, it feels better when you get to admit them -- then you can smile and get on with it! Mama Tuesday, September 10 Dear VTwin Mama, My experience with my course was not good overall, to say the least. I took the beginner class because my husband and myself felt I would pick up valuable tips and techniques that he may not have taught me. I had been riding for a year - starting out on a Suzuki 300, moving up to an '81 Sporty & had just bought a 2002 1200 Sporty which I love. My husband told me to mention to my instructor what I drove so that he would understand me better as a student - the course was on new Suzuki 250s, and one ancient Rebel with duct tape and twine holding on the headlight, countless dents and scratches, rust, and chain slap, and farting. Well, I was the one in class with the most experience and happened to end up with that old nasty bike - coincidence? - maybe. But the second day of riding when I complained about the bike the instructor told me it was fine and he would "tell the mechanics about it if they come around". There were more new bikes in the garage but he made me stick with that one. I guess I was intimidated by him and also thought - "If he thinks I can do it, I can, it will be a challenge". When he took the Rebel for an example run around some cones to show us what to do, he missed a cone and said it was his foot that hit it and not his fault. He performed perfectly when using any of the other new bikes on these runs. Well, I passed, but did the worst in the class. And he let everyone know. But this is what upset me the most: The last day of class I rode my new Sporty to class (I had already put about 2,000 miles on it in two months, having just got back from a 1,000 mile run through Texas & New Mexican desert to see my family) and I was so shaken by the whole experience that I felt uncomfortable on my own bike on the way home. I did not shake that feeling until I put another several hundred miles on her. I felt so unstable on that little bike that it carried over to my "creamsicle" as Mama has put it. I think I was taught things that I had to unlearn to ride my own bike again. My husband turned out to be the only instructor I needed, although we both didn't know this before the experience. And the grand total I saved on my yearly insurance was - drum roll please - 1$. Thanks for listening, Paula (note from Mama: well, I think the message here is that instructors have a huge responsibility to be sensitive to their students when they voice concerns, etc. After all, they are adults, not small children. ) Tuesday, September 10 Dear VTwin Mama, Shirl, even after I had taken the course, I was still a bit
intimidated of my bike. I had gotten a Low Rider and it was somewhat
large .. ha ha ... anyway ... this is what I did ... I would just sit on the
bike, while in neutral of course and not running. I would practice just
moving it around, first forward and then backwards, it gave me some confidence
on just being able to handle it, and it is much more difficult to move when
not turned on ... ha ha. Tuesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Bea, Dear VTwin Mama, Really frustrated by my inability to throttle properly, and concerned I was interfering with the flow of the class, I decided it would be best for me to just stop. While the instructors and students wanted me to continue, my concern was more for them than myself. Moral of the story is: Don't give up as easily as that even if you are very frustrated and discouraged. I'm really kicking myself today for not continuing, as the last day of class is going on as I am writing this, but it seemed the best thing to do at the time. It's not only the women that have these problems. I'm not sure if MSF courses are for absolute beginners, men or women. I'd never been on a motorcycle before. and probably won't again, unless I can figure out some way to practice without the pressure and without a motorcycle. Take care. No Name Guy With the Guts to Write In Dear Guts, Friday, October 18 For Guy with Guts who left MSF course early 'cause it didn't feel right: I agree with Mama---I think you have what it takes to ride. You just hit a hurdle, and it'll be only one of several you'll encounter. I hope you do find someone who will get you started. Please don't give up, ok? Di (note from Mama: that's right -- don't give up, but find a solution that will put you on the right track again!) If you want to learn to ride, I would strongly encourage you to either find a private instructor or retake the class. I had been on a motorcycle only once in my life as a passenger when I took the MSF class. I had a similar problem controlling the throttle and I dropped the bike. I was a little scraped up, but much more embarrassed - actually utterly, completely embarrassed and I even cried a little. What made it even worse was that I broke the throttle lever (coincidence?) and a few other things. Not only could I no longer ride the bike but my classmate in the second section would also have to use a different bike. I thought the class was over for me, but no, I had to get back on another bike that I was not familiar with and ride around a few times (with everyone watching). It was not the kind of attention I wanted. Somehow I made it through the rest of the class and even passed! I recently took the intermediate class on my new motorcycle, a Suzuki GZ 250, and got the highest score. I love riding my motorcycle. However, on the other hand, is motorcycle riding for you? The money you spend on the MSF class is an incredibly small price to pay to realize your interests lie elsewhere versus buying a motorcycle, accessories, and heaven forbid, having something serious happen. Prior to the class, I had no idea you assumed so much responsibility and risk when riding a motorcycle. That said, if you want to learn to ride, you just have to get back on a bike. Don't let a bad start deter you. Jen from Oregon (note from Mama: and that's the way to stick with your dream and realize it -- but you're right -- some serious consideration should be given to the next step.) I had written in last week about having aching knees and ankles because the gas tank on my Shadow Spirit 750 is much wider than I was used to. Thanks, JRogers, for suggesting floorboards. That seems like a great idea. I do plan to do that when I can afford it. I wanted to offer encouragement to the guy who wrote in about the MSF class. Please don't give up! When my husband and I took the class in August of 2001, neither of us had ever ridden. Several others in the class hadn't either. Everyone was at a different stage. Some had been riding for years, but some of us were total beginners. On the first day of the class, things seemed to be going well for me overall, but I was having the same problem you described. I was having trouble finding the "friction zone." Towards the end of the day, I found it though (a little too much)...I popped an unintentional wheelie and threw myself off the bike, landing on the pavement...hard! Luckily, I had gloves on; otherwise my hands would have been really messed-up. I hurt my knee enough to continue having pain for a couple weeks. I was completely humiliated but got back on the bike and continued to finish the day. Some of the others in the class were complimentary to me about the "guts" it took to get back on the bike. We did finish out the day, but not the rest of the class, but only because it was over 100 degrees (we live in Fort Worth, TX) and we couldn't take the heat. I wanted to quit but I'm so glad I didn't. I started with a 250 Rebel and now ride a 750 Shadow. Riding has turned out to be the most fun I've ever had in my life and I only wish I hadn't waited until I was 40 to start. Better late than never. Also, my husband just turned 53, so he waited a long time to start riding too. He dropped his bike at an intersection once. I'm telling you all this just to let you know that you're not alone with your fears or apprehensions. We all feel them. But anything you really want to do is worth a little (or a lot of) effort. Consider taking the course again. I'm betting things will go much more smoothly for you. Sorry for the length of this, but I remember the encouragement I needed after my fiasco during class and luckily I got it. That's why I ride now. Linda (note from Mama: you don't need to apologize for the length of the important insights you are sharing with Gutsy Guy -- that's the great thing about the Internet -- there's actually room to really pour out our complete feelings and thoughts! And you did it so well!) Monday, October 21 For Gutsy Guy who started a course but then dropped out: I took extra one-on-one lessons after the motorcycle course. They charged me 20 dollars per hour and it was well worth it. I had a woman instruct me because I felt the men instructors weren't really interested in women riding bikes, I hate to say it in the year 2002, but some men still think women belong in the kitchen. NOT!!!!!!!!!!!! Cathy (note from Mama: and I think some men would benefit from a woman instructor as well in a one-on-one situation -- it's worth exploring that.) Tuesday, October 22 Dear VTwin Mama, I'll be an active contributor to this site from now on, and I will be ordering T-shirts, not only for me but for all my other compadres who ride. Concerning the MSF class - People tell me I handle my bike at least better if not much better than most men around and I almost failed the MSF class. I think it was the perfectionist streak in me - wanting to do everything absolutely perfect first time around. Well, surprise. What you do in the class and how you do it really, in the end, has very little bearing on how you will succeed with your motorcycle. Take the basic info, put it to use, and RIDE, RIDE, RIDE. I have 23,000 miles on my bike, mostly 400-500 mile trips, a couple of 2500 mile trips, and seriously, that is what it takes. I look forward to communicating with all the VTMs - glad I found you! K. Knapp, Snohomish, WA Dear K., Thursday, October 24 For Gutsy Guy and the course he didn't
quite finish: At our site, we used Honda Nighthawk 250s. These worked just fine for me (Im 6), but were too high for my wife ((5) even though her bike had a custom seat which was lower than the standard seat. As long as the bike was moving, she was OK. However, at all stops she had to balance a 300+ pound bike while standing on her toes. She dropped the bike three times in two days and on the third time ended up breaking two bones in her right hand. Until the third time, we were both having a lot of fun. Our instructors were excellent. They have been teaching these courses for years and were enthusiastic teachers and cyclists. The class was evenly split between males and females and included a number of individuals who had no previous cycle experience as well as some who have ridden extensively. I successfully completed the course and my wife still wants to get her license. However, given the physical size of the bikes used she may opt for practicing in a large, empty lot on a bike we purchase until she gets comfortable. So far, we have found two bikes that fit her a Kawasaki Eliminator (125 cc) and the Yamaha Virago (250 cc). Our MSF instructors stressed (as has this site) getting a bike that feels/fits right. Regardless of how good the instructors are, or how well done the program is, if a student is uncomfortable with the equipment either because it has mechanical problems or simple does not fit then the experience will likely be negative. If you are really interested in learning to ride I would check out the MSF courses again. There were multiple sites within an hour to so commuting distance from our home and I expect this is true for many readers. If necessary, look at a couple of locations, their equipment, and watch a session to see if the style of the instructors is compatible with your learning style. Finally, if something is wrong with a particular bike, have it checked. The Nighthawks at our site were very well maintained yet two of the twelve had minor problems. DJ Dear DJ, Dear VTwin Mama, But my question is I have no driving experience on a bike and I am going to take a motorcycle safety course but not sure when to take it. I live in Oklahoma and the weather will be nasty soon. My husband and I go out on cold days, that's not a problem but ice and sleet are. I don't know if I should wait until early spring (when I will be able to get my bike) and the weather will be better or go ahead and take it now. I am foaming at the bit to get started! I need a little advice! Thanks and I really dig your awesome site!!! Elda B. Dear Elda, To way lay the bug during the upcoming winter months, I would suggest that you begin reading as much as you can get your hands on. Visit my Books/Mag section for a number of books and magazines. The number one recommended book for reading is Proficient Motorcycling which you can get via the Internet at Amazon -- motorcycle books. It's chock full of the basics. You might also want to dive into some of the technical aspects of the bike itself -- after all, keeping your bike in tip top shape is the other half of the equation to good riding. Also, check the links at the bottom of my Home Page and you'll find the links to the major women's riding groups in the U.S. You might find it useful to see if there is a chapter in your area and get in contact. Why not start meeting women in your area over the winter?! You go girl -- we're glad you found the VTwin Mama site and will be happy to answer any questions you have and share your own insights as you begin your most excellent adventure! Mama Wednesday, October 30 For Gutsy Guy who didn't finish the MSF
course: Thursday, October 31 For Elda, who has been bitten by the "bike bug" late in the season: I live in Oklahoma as well. I took the motorcycle safety course May 2002 and have ridden a Honda 250 this summer. I just bought a new Yamaha VStar. I have ridden it twice and it is killing me to not ride now - but I am not 26 - I am 50 and the cold seems to hurt worse now!! Just a suggestion -- but you could take the safety course now -- ride on our nice days this winter -- then take the course again in the spring. The course is very good and I certainly do not think it would hurt to brush up before really getting into heavy riding - especially in the city. I don't know where you live, I live in Norman by Lake Thunderbird. If you live close maybe we could ride together in the spring. Does your husband ride? My husband has a Harley and has taught me a lot since I took my course. You can contact me at louann52@yahoo.com if you would like. Good luck to you and good riding! Lou Ann (note from Mama: good ideas here and I hope it turns out you live relatively near!) Don't forget at this time of the year the dealerships are not as busy and will be able to spend more time answering your questions and showing you bikes that will be suited to new riders. Also keep your eyes open for motorcycle shows in a town near you -- this is a great opportunity to sit on bikes of all shapes and sizes to help you with your big decision. Not only that, it helps relieve the itch of that biker bug bite 'til spring! Laura (note from Mama: I'm just ITCHING to get to a show myself!) I am a Motorcycle Safety Instructor in Kalamazoo, Michigan and my advice is this. Check your local book dealers and see if they have a couple books, two of them by David Hough, one called Riding Strategies and the other one called Proficient Motorcycling. Also check with www.msf-usa.org and check out the books they have for sale -- these books can at least get you thinking about riding safely and get you a very large head start on your course for next year. Trust me -- living in Michigan -- I have the bug also and we Instructors get bit bad in the winter and can't wait to get back at it next year. Hope this helps. Pastor Freak (note from Mama: read, read, read -- I AGREE!) Friday, November 1 For Elda, who has been bitten by the "bike bug" late in the season: I live in Wisconsin and I took the MSF class in the month of September (5 years ago). Passed the class, got my license, and thought I would be waiting until spring to have a chance to ride. Well, I went to look at motorcycles to get an idea what the cost was and what I would be comfortable on. By October 31 I was picking up my new bike. I rode around the neighborhood until the fallen leaves gave me a little scare. I only put 50 miles on my new baby and stored it for the winter. As soon as April came and the weather was somewhat bearable, I bundled up and started riding, riding, riding. I put on 500 miles by May 1st. Needless to say that was one of the longest winters. The excitement and anticipation kept me going through those long months. It is probably best to wait until spring to take the class. You know mother nature can be soooooo unpredictable. Besides, as mama suggested, there is enough to keep you busy to prepare for your new adventure. Good Luck Elda! Riding your own -- the best way to go Linda (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your own late-in-the-season journey -- very inspirational!) Wednesday, November 6 Dear VTwin Mama, I'm not sure what the riding courses are like in your area. Here in Illinois we have a state-sponsored MSF course (Motorcycle Safety Foundation), which is essentially free after a nominal fee to hold your place in the class. The only problem is.... they fill up FAST! So from that point of view, if you have a class you can just walk into - go for it! Also, keep in mind that even experienced riders will be a little rusty at the beginning of a season. So you may want to consider taking the course now, to get it under your belt. That way you can a) have it out of the way, and not think about it all winter long, and b) start out the year with you and your husband on a little bit closer level. If you can't get into a class this late in the year, and if it's not prohibited in your area, consider practicing in an empty parking lot somewhere. I got lucky - there's a church within pushing distance from my house. My husband and I, who learned together, pushed the bike over & practiced every day after work. Then when we got into our classes, we weren't quite so nervous. Hope this helps, Dar, (note from Mama: all thoughtful insights are helpful -- and yours is no exception!) Thursday, November 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Elda, Tuesday, December 10 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Elda, Wednesday, December 11 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kip, As we preach time and time again on this site, the type of bike you choose is based on your comfort level. In the MSF course, you'll most likely learn on a 250cc bike. This is a good start. Guiding points for choosing a bike include the following: sit on the bike and make sure your feet are flat on the ground so that you have maximum control of the bike at all times. Now, stretch your arms out and see if the bike handlebars and controls are at a comfortable distance for you. Same for your legs. Next, how did you do in the course and how is your physical strength -- you don't want a bike too powerful right off the bat if this is a concern. So, what does your budget look like -- consider checking ads in the local paper or Cycle Trader or something similar for a used bike -- which by the way is a great way to get your first bike cheap and figure out what you really want! Get some miles logged in! Also, check for motorcycle shows in your area -- many of these shows are held in the winter -- the Motorcycle Events site is a good place to look (Events Calendar -- check for Cycle World shows in particular). That way you can sit on tons of bikes and get a feel for the whole thing. So wad da ya think? Enough information already? Hopefully enough to get you started. Mama |
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