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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! |
2005 (Jan to June)Thursday, January 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have decided recently that I want to ride up front again after 13+ years of either not riding or riding as a passenger, I am a lousy passenger btw. I have found the bike I want: a Vento Rebellian, relatively unheard of bike but the few people I have spoke to love theirs. I am taking my safety course this weekend, weather permitting. Even though I used to ride before, I am nervous. I never rode a bike with a hand clutch before or for that matter one that had an electronic ignition (you mean I don't have to jump up and down till my brain hemorrhages to get the darn thing started: cool!!) LOL I am approaching the whole thing as if I never rode before, but really my biggest hurtle is going to be shifting. I can't even drive a standard!!! Well, except for a three speed shift on the column. Any advice you can give me would be great. – TechKnowMama Dear
TechKnowMama, Basically, with the clutch lever pulled in (your left hand), your left foot is going to push the gear lever down one notch, then you're going to ease out the clutch lever slowly until you feel power begin to move the bike forward. Pull in the clutch lever and the power is removed! Remember, you can ALWAYS remove the "power" from the bike by pulling in the clutch lever, whether or not you've done anything with the foot lever. So, if you're in first, then the sequence to go to second is to once again pull in the clutch lever, click with your foot one up (to go to second) and ease out the clutch lever to give power to the bike again. Same thing if you're feeling icky. Just pull in the clutch lever and power is removed! Now, sit at the kitchen table, close your eyes, and visualize these steps and see yourself doing well. It's important to keep a positive attitude and if, in class, you feel yourself getting "brain tangled," stop, review the steps you're supposed to take, take a deep breath and try it again. Easy does it! Now, should it happen that you don't pass this first course, don't think you're alone. YOU ARE NOT. There are lots of letters on this site from women who took a second and even a third try at it. The point is that it's a LEARNING experience . . . so make sure you learn . . . and if you need more learning . . . then so be it. Keep your end goal in mind: to ride a bike with skill and confidence. Any steps necessary to accomplish that goal are OK! – Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Why is it when your husband buys a bike for you that he is so protective? Yes I dumped it at the park, at the water treatment plant closed the gate on me, and I went to make the turn and I dropped it. But I feel really good when I'm on it and he finds nothing but problems. He got a 2005 Sportster in August of last year. I rode in the back till I decided I wanted my own. I was brought up riding with my father, but I never drove one. I'm really proud of what I accomplished in the 2 months that I have had it. Do your or any of the followers have any advance for a new beginner? – Leann Dear
Leann, Perhaps you might both benefit, while
waiting for your class to start, to get the Ride
Like a Pro for the Ladies video . . . an excellent way to watch
“lessons” together, talk about the techniques and then go out for practice
sessions . . . together! Instead of him sitting at the sidelines (presumably
tearing his hair out) . . . work on the stuff as a team . . . less baldness in
the end! Friday, February 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Joan, Teaching is a time-honored profession and NOT JUST ANYBODY makes for a good teacher. How about contacting Ridley and asking if they know of riding courses for auto tranny bikes?! Or, you can contact you local community college (where many of the safety courses are held) and inquire there. If they can’t accommodate you, be prepared to ask if any of the instructors provide private lessons. Last, but not least, check into local chapters of women's riding organizations to gather kindred spirits around you . . . just venting with other gals should help quite a bit and will make for life long friends! Check my Women's Sites page for groups. I’m thinking you would also benefit from
getting the Ride Like a
Pro for the Ladies video . . . while it’s geared (!) towards bikes with
manual transmissions, there are lots of practical lessons on maneuvers that
you would benefit from. Monday, February 14 Dear Mama, After reading the horror stories on your site I did much investigation and want to recommend that other beginners do the same! I found a beginners class in Wichita, Kansas near where I live. They only accept five riders at a time an have a no fail policy (I was ecstatic, jumping for joy, thrilled, doing summersaults in the front yard--well you get the picture). After interviewing the instructors and being assured of no pressure with the offer of "even if we have to stay late for extra instruction," my fears evaporated faster than my bank balance after I went shopping for motorcycle gear. I just wanted to advise other new riders to investigate the classes you are enrolling in. This one is $200 and well worth every dime for the no pressure no fail policy! Will keep you updated after I pass, notice I said after, not if!! So ladies do your homework an find that perfect class. It is your money and no way should you let lousy instructors intimidate an belittle our lack of skill. After all, it took a while for us to become perfect women . . . why would riding be any different? And big hugs to Mama for this fantastic site!! – Purple Pony Gal in Kansas Dear
Purple Pony Gal, Your message is loud and clear . . . and while many would report that often times there is only one choice around for a riding class . . . we've also heard that it's worth going out a little farther to find the right instructors and course. Kudos to you for really digging into the set-up and satisfying your sensibilities. To say I'm sooooo excited for you would be an understatement . . . I'm just jazzing at your upcoming adventure . . . now, get some sleep so you're not too bleary eyed to learn! And look for the link on the home page in the left column . . . we've got a woman instructor who is gathering input on how you felt about your experience . . . she's trying to make things better for all women! – Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, So I didn't pass the range test - the instructors told me to come back and take the written test the next night and "maybe I could get into the next classes that were added on this fall." Thanks, but I'll eat the 25 bucks and go somewhere else. This year I've joined my local Women on Wheels chapter and will take my TIP (learner's permit - lets you ride during daylight in sight of a licensed cyclist) - so I can ride with the club and then maybe next year take the class for my full endorsement. IMHO, MSF is NOT interested in having women ride and uses certain instructors/techniques to weed out women. BTW, I am no wimp - I completed the 2003 New York City Marathon (26.2 miles) - and I've given birth twice.... – Chris G. in Commerce Twp, MI Dear
Chris, I'm glad to hear that you are part of the WOW riding organization . . . it's good to have support at the local level from women who have experience to help you. Have you called on your fellow members for noodling out if your experience was singular with this particular course/instructor? You might even want to talk with the home office of MSF -- check their contact list. This crap just keeps going on if we don't speak up! You might also want to check with local dealers to see if they offer courses . . . some do. Just a future thought. Also, on my home page I've got a call for input just like yours for Hammerlady who is compiling input . . . the link is in the left hand column. Chin up Chris, I believe you'll find your path if you keep looking. – Mama Tuesday, March 15 For Chris on her observations on taking a riding safety course: I took the class at our local community
college near We only had one person asked to leave due to safety reasons…bless his heart, he had never been on a bike before and wanted to travel the world on a big bike. For safety reasons, he was asked to leave before he got hurt. He was the sweetest man, but did not need to be on two wheels traveling the world! He sat in line in front of me to take the final road course test and told me that I made it look so easy and that I was a natural. I told him that I had grown up on dirt bikes and was taking this course to brush up my skills. I actually missed one point on the road course by NOT using the front brake in the “slow - brake in a curve” obstacle. Another lady in the class asked me for help on the riding course…so one of the instructors let us practice before class started under his watchful eye. When she cleared the figure 8 in the box on the final test…I was jumping up & down cheering for her! Our instructors were super nice guys…one
being a Friday, March 18 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
fmdroopy, I think you are most likely more tense towards the end because you're getting tired. Did you drink enough water during the session (hydration at all times is important) and did you have proper nutrition in your system (as the wrong foods or no food at all will not make this situation any better)? Also, did you have a less than easy sleep the night before worrying about the test? I'm thinking that closing your eyes and visualizing a successful run the next time through will help your concentration (and it's proven that if we see ourselves successfully completing a task, we have a much better chance doing so than if we keep seeing potential downfalls). Do this many times over the next week as you prepare and your "senses" will be trained into thinking about success, not failure. Now, is it certain that you'll have the same coach for the next class? Check into it, as many women report that by simply finding a better match in instructors can make all the difference. Do not be shy about this . . . ask. After all, it's your money! If it turns out the same coach will be there, and you wish to proceed, remember that this instructional technique is not aimed at you personally . . . it's simple that person's style. Then find a way in your mind to defuse the influence (you could perhaps envision this person as a barking seal or someone with mad cow disease. See, it's funny already!) Last, but not least . . . remember your overall goal, grit your teeth, and say, "I can do this, this will be good, and I'm going to give it everything I've got because my goal is to be a rider." Then go do it! Good luck . . . I know you can do it! – Mama Tuesday, April 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Serlestine, Tuesday, April 19 Dear
VTwin Mama, My instructor told me that she was not worried about me, that I did very well on the riding part of the MSF class. I guess he feels that I will get over confident after what the instructors told me, but it made me feel good about myself and it boosted my confidence. I want to start riding my 883XL HD to work, but my husband thinks that I'm not ready. I feel that I am. What do you suggest? Thanks, – Leann Dear
Leann, I am glad to hear that your confidence level is healthy, but new riders tend to freeze when something overwhelms them How about this compromise: drive the route to work in your car with your hubby and identify all the things along the way that present obstacles or concerns (road work, bumps, heavy traffic, merging lanes, etc.). Then, on a quiet Sunday morning, both of you ride the route on bikes and review. I think this may help your husband come to grips with your desire to ride to work and shows him that you are willing to address his concerns (and gives you a leg up on potential problems). This seems like a win-win thing to me! – Mama Saturday, April 23 Dear
VTwin Mama, My intention is not to talk about riding techniques, but to remind all the learning-sisters out there, that when it comes to your safety and your comfort, NOBODY can tell you what to do. And, of course, I'm talking from experience. My intention was to take the MSF course, the problem was that I can only do it on a weekend. The next available weekend to register is until October, so I decided to ask my boyfriend to help out to get the basics. Now I'm not sure it was such a great idea. There is nothing worse than somebody pushing you and rushing you into things that you are not ready yet. You are barely starting to get the hang of it, for example, the balance thing, and they already want you to go out on the street, with traffic!!! We've gotten into fights because of this, but I won't allow it simply because I want to go at my own pace. When I feel that I've mastered a step, then I take on the next one, and so on. He gets aggravated and impatient. But if I try to push myself over my own limit I might end up in the hospital. I know I'm not the only one dealing with this, so I just wanted to encourage you not to take on the pressure, and enjoy each moment when you seat on that bike. And make sure that you know what you are doing. Them? They'll just go out and find another motorcycle . . . hehehehe. – Carolina Dear
Carolina, Dear
VTwin Mama, Unfortunately, when it came time to test and perform the three required exercises, I became so nervous, I botched every one of them up and didn't pass. I was devastated knowing I had to do it all over again. My instructors said I only to need repeat the last 5 hours plus the skills test (thank goodness!). However, I was still so upset I went home and cried for 3 hours. I felt like such a failure and I was scared out of my mind. I know I can do the skills test because I did them several times, but my nerves get in the way. I have 6 weeks before I retake my test and plan to practice as much as possible. I'm hoping that with the practice, my anxiety will lessen and I'll be more relaxed come test day. Do you have any advice to calm my nerves? By the way . . . love your site! – Christie Dear
Christie, Many people are use to studying hard and passing things the first go-around. When we don't ace something right off the bat, we wonder what we did wrong. Could it be in this case that the whole thing was a bit overwhelming?! After all, you really had to take a lot of information in, work on your skills, and then BAM, you're being tested. I think with 6 weeks of practice (preferably in an empty parking lot with no distractions and a minimum of things to bump into!) you'll do just fine. You've already been through it once, so you know what to expect! Make sure that before the test you also practice "positive" visualization (I often lay on the living room floor, relax my whole body, and then "see" the good thing!). See yourself on the course doing well and being safe. You'll find this will help tons versus biting your nails and doing the "negative thinking" thing. It's just not necessary! Also, make sure you have a good breakfast, bring plenty of water, and be well rested (again, positive visualization will help with this!). If you're going to stay up half the night before the test, spend it seeing a good outcome versus seeing every bad thing coming your way. Trust me, it works! YOU CAN DO IT! – Mama Wednesday, May 4 For Christie whose nerves got the better of her during the final course test: You really aren't alone. I just passed a couple of days ago and almost barfed in the morning of the test day. When it came to the test, I almost barfed again. So, just RELAX, I wish I did. It is a fun class though, so just think of having fun and the fact you have an extra day to do all mistakes in a class . . . not on the road. You'll get it. – Kathy (note from Mama: nothing like recent first-hand experience to help another reader realize that they ARE NOT ALONE.) Friday, May 6 From Christie to VTwin Mama and Kathy: Thank you SO much for your support! Ever since I found this site and posted my tale of nerve-induced stupidness, I’ve kept busy reading as many of your postings as possible. I now know that I am indeed NOT ALONE. When I failed my class, I definitely felt alone. I’ve never failed a class before in my entire life and have always prided myself on how quickly I learn. Failing the class was just not a possibility. Knowing that others have gone through the same ordeal makes it somehow easier to get over and move on to bigger and more fun things. I’ve relaxed considerably since that day and have been anxiously awaiting warm weather to get out there and practice, practice, practice. In fact, tonight I’m getting my bike out and going for a ride. It may be a short one, but baby steps, right? Anyway, just wanted to thank you ladies for listening to me and showing your support. I’ve learned so much already and plan to learn even more. Have a super day and take care all. – Christie (note from Mama: glad we could be of help! I think we should begin a national campaign that hands every new woman rider a small card that says, "You Are NOT Alone," that they could carry in their wallet. Then, every time something happens, they could pull it out and know that somewhere down the line, other women (and men) have gone through the same thing, no matter what it was! Heck, I think I'll make a small card for myself right now!) Saturday, May 7 More for Christie who didn't pass her riding course the first time: I hope in your readings of previous posts you have read about my adventures in trying to pass – that the first time I took the test I actually slid the scoot with me under it and was disqualified (and yes, I had never ever failed an exam of any kind before and I did cry also – I felt like a failure)…but I learned from that. Took the riding exam again and missed it by one gosh darn point….but I was determined – and took both the written and riding again, and passed. So for me, third time was a charm. But I also practiced in between which helped a whole lot. Don’t give up, practice, practice and practice. So, it took me 5 months and three tests to pass – so what – who has to know that except yourself. Today, when I am riding my scoot down the street, no one is asking me if I passed the test the first time. Me riding is what is making the statement!! And to share with all of you – Saturday,
May 8th is my 50th birthday – and what a birthday it is to remember
– I quit my job, bought a Harley, got a dog and got a tattoo….what more
does a woman want or need on her 50th? Added note: unlike my other 0’s (20, 30 and 40) – this time I didn’t change husbands – still have the one I got when I was 40 and am planning to keep him!! ; ) Thanks for
being here for all of us VTwin Mama! Sunday, May 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, My instructor put me right at ease and made it fun and I only dropped it once. The best part was I overcame one of the greatest fears of my life, learning to ride. I would like to thank everyone who has shared their experiences, both the good and the bad, on your website. You all made me feel like I could go out and get on a bike enjoy myself. I plan on taking a couple of more private lessons then take the MSF three day course. I'll keep you posted. – Kevin (K-Rock) Washington Dear
K-Rock, Sunday, May 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Colleen, Also, I'd type in "learning to ride a motorcycle" in a search engine, and you'll find lots of sites with overviews, first-hand journals, and other tips. – Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Debi, My best advice is to have a trusted friend ride that bike for you to an empty parking lot (scout your area for possibilities, such as high school lot on weekends) so that you've got a distraction-free and relatively safe practice zone. Work on basics first, like getting the bike in gear and slowly working on 1st gear and smooth stops. Then big lazy loops. See what I mean?! Make sure you don't overdo it in any one session . . . you don't want to get overwhelmed and/or tired . . . stop practice when you need to. Keep scheduling practice sessions with specific goals in mind, and if things take a little longer than you thought, not to worry . . . you've got a lifetime of riding ahead of you . . . so easy does it. Please make sure that you're properly protected (boots, long pants, jacket, gloves, helmet) so that if you do have an "oopsie" it will just bruise your ego and not your skin. You don't mention if you have your m/c license, but if not, consider taking a riding course in your area this season . . . check with the local community college, dealerships and Yellow Pages for options. – Mama More for Christie whose nerves got the better of her during the final course test: Christie - I agree with Mama, practice your skills in the parking lot. I am a new rider too and I made my boyfriend take me to the parking lot and practice, practice, practice a couple of weeks before I took my class. I screwed up on the test too. I was doing great in the practice portion, but when it came time for the test, my nerves took over and I choked. I passed but I think it was only because I had some practice previously. The trick for me was to not look at anyone else taking the test and concentrate on doing your best when you get to your turn. Just remember what they taught you and you'll be fine. – Doreen from NJ (note from Mama: it can be easy to compare yourself to others in the class, thus breaking your concentration from the task at hand . . . it's natural . . . but can be overcome when we remember this is a LEARNING experience! The ego maybe does a bit better when we remember that perspective.) For Debi who is wondering if there is such a thing as training wheels for a bike: There are training wheels
for motorcycles; I’ve seen them! In addition to the training
wheels for tots that are advertised online, there are motorized sets that
operate with the controls of the bike. They move up and out of the
way when the bike starts moving and drop back down as it slows. One
of the fellows that took the Motorcycle Safety class with me was
handicapped and brought a customized bike to the class. He had
partial use of his legs; he used canes that hooked onto his forearms to
walk with. His bike was a beautiful yellow Wednesday, May 18 From Debi who had the jitters and was wondering about training wheels: Thank you for the reply on the training wheels, but you know what? I finally got my bike on the road!!! I think the training wheels were an idea that I was nervous about getting the bike on the road but thank you so much for this site. That morning that I took my Honda Shadow on the road, I had sat down and read some of the stories of the first time riders and it made me feel wonderful . . . I knew it was okay to feel nervous and still anxious the first time! I only took it out for a 30 mile run but it was okay . . . I HAD FINALLY MADE IT ON THE ROAD. So many thanks to all the wonderful people that have made this site possible and thanks to the wonderful other riders that made me feel like I WASN'T ALONE!!! Thank you VTwin Mama!!! – Debi (note from Mama: excellent! Three wonderful things happened . . . you got to say what was happening to you, you read previous postings that helped you understand how much many share similar situations, and we learned about a solution that may help someone else in the future! That's just sooooo cool!) Wednesday, May 18 For Sandy who had the courage to write in about pitstops to pee: Well, first off. I got my Sportster today. Finally came with the lowered shocks and risers. I'm soooo happpyyyy. Off I go. I'll send a picture. Very excited! (how fun!) Secondly, Boy, I am right with Sandy. I am going to be 51, new rider, and yes, because we are women we just have to pee more. Fact of life from here on in. The best thing to do is just stop. Pee. And then go. Why be in anguish over it?! I think if you did the Depends thing they might leak because of the way we sit. Remember those pads from the past? Scary. So, just stop. Let everyone know you have to pee. That's it. That's all. Admit it to yourself and you will have a fine relaxing time and probably won't even have to pee that much because you will be relaxed and unconscious of it. Good luck. Have fun, and just stop! – Kathy H. (note from Mama: good point, it's natural, we all have to do it, and some of us more than others!) Thursday, May 19 Hello Mama, Dear
Christie, Dear
VTwin Mama, I am a COMPLETE NEWBIE who got up the nerve to take the MSF class for beginners. So I had my first class and I was out of control . . . the instructors seemed to assume that everyone knew how to control the clutch/throttle combo (I've never driven stick shift either). Anyway, with my high tolerance for embarrassment and beatings, I made it through the day, barely. No one told me about the death grip . . . i figured it out myself by the end of class why I was having so much trouble and started improving by ignoring the annoyed instructors and focusing on not death gripping. I know that I need LOTS more time to practice the basics. My question is, should I continue with the second class which is also the final class. I'm pretty sure I will not be passing the test which will not deter me from keeping on (when I don't stall) and I would be happy to take the course again. I am curious to know during your teachings, if students who were not doing great for the first day were able to make it through the second class? My heart is saying "ride baby ride". . . but my confidence and nerve remains shaky. – Determined to Ride, Despite Death Gripping and Embarrassments Dear
Determined, The reason I think you should take the final class is that when you decide to repeat the course, you'll have knowledge of what's involved! Also, you've already paid for it! That will help you with nerves/jitters the second time around. You're not the only one to have repeated the course. A couple of steps you could take in-between are these: if the manual clutch system is a real sticky point, find someone with a clutch car and do some practice there (yes, it will help!) and check with the dealerships for specific learn-to-ride courses. Good luck, and keep going . . . you CAN do it. If you need sister support, hop onto my Women's Sites page, contact the local chapter of a women's riding organization, and contact them. There's nothing like a local shoulder to lean on! – Mama For Determined whose first riding course experience is a bit rough at the edges: Hang in there. My wife and I both took the MSF course with little (20 plus years ago for me) and no (for my wife) experience on motorcycles. It was real shaky the first day of the class, but we had both been told that the class was the way to go. We just figured we would retake the class if we failed. As it worked out we both passed. Our class was a four day class with plenty of time to practice (OK, I would have liked about 10 times as much practice). There were some other beginners in the class as well and all passed. The only person in our class that didn't pass was someone who didn't pass the written test. Incidentally, the instructors started my wife and another of the beginning women on 125cc bikes and then moved them up to the 250's. My wife never dropped her bike, but some of the other people did. There were also engines "dying" at every shift point 8-) at the beginning of class. Towards the end of the last day before the test, it almost looked like we were doing OK as a class. My point is take the second day of the class if at all possible. If you don't, it will just leave an open spot in the class. You might surprise yourself, and there are lots of valuable pieces of information in the second day of the instruction as well. – Kevin (note from Mama: and there you have it Determined, take the second class!) GO to the second riding class!!! It's what? Six, eight hours
in the saddle? The more you ride the better you get. Every time I read a message like yours I have to jump on and respond, even though I have posted my story several times. I was in the same situation as you - never ridden a motorcycle before, didn't know a clutch from throttle. Taking the class, the first day was a absolutely overwhelming - 99% of everyone in the class had at least some experience to my no experience. And the instructor for that class didn't help the situation or me! I made it through the first day feeling overwhelmed, tired, humiliated, defeated and trying to uncurl my hands from the deathgrips I had for the entire class. But, I did go back for the second day. To summarize, I laid my motorcycle once during a fast stop during class, and then the ultimate, I laid it on a fast stop during the exam - automatic fail. Gosh, did I feel like a failure! But I was determined. So, I took the entire class again with another instructor and what a difference that made. First, I kindofsortof knew some of the basics this time. However, even though, I missed my exam by 1 (ONE) lousy point. But I figured I had scored high cuz I didn't fail it this time! Purchased a 250 Rebel and started practicing just around the neighborhood and in the school parking lot on the weekends. So, off to take the exam 4 weeks later and I passed!!! Yipee Skippy! O.k., so I passed by one point. But I passed. And as I have said before, when you have your endorsement and are out riding - noone is goig to ask you how many times it took to get that license. Don't get discouraged. Don't give up. Just keep trying. And you will find a tremendous amount of support here from so many who have been in the same situation as yourself! – Annie (note from Mama: I just love success stories!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Determined, Wednesday, May 25 Hello Mama, Dear
Going Crazy, By going this way you can achieve a number of things all at once: 1) show your boyfriend that you're serious about your desire to ride, but will learn through accredited teachers who are going to be there every step. 2) find out for yourself what skill level you actually possess and what your next steps will need to be. 3) give you a chance to try it and back away from the adventure if it's not right for you. 4) give your boyfriend some time to adjust to the idea as it's unlikely you'll find a slot in a course right away (classes fill up quickly). Check with the local community college, dealerships in the area, or open your Yellow Pages. Make sure you understand that a motorcycle safety course will teach a beginning rider, but the emphasis is safety. A riding course is designed totally around helping you to learn to ride. About the boyfriend . . . depending on how long you've been together, you're going to have to decide for yourself how much his opinion counts. "Totally against it" can mean a lot of things . . . is he just rambling in general, shouting safety concerns and deaths per year? Or is he more specific, something that can be talked about? It's time to be a mature adult and find ways to open the discussion . . . or move forward on your own if necessary. – Mama Monday, June 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Joanne, There is of course a ton of advice for new riders, but here's the biggest most important thing to remember: RIDE YOUR OWN RIDE. What this means is that you need to trust your gut instinct on your learning curve. Don't do to much too fast, don't let anyone tell you how you should or are feeling, and don't let anyone push you into doing a ride that you're not ready for. Say what you can handle and mean it! As to the clutch lever, yes, the adjustment at the lever is ok, but your "freeplay" is now at the lever. Take a look and follow the cable down and you'll see a point where the cable attaches to the next linkage. Additional adjustment can be made there (and there may be a midpoint adjuster somewhere also, but not sure on your bike). The biggee in all of this is that the engage/disengage point clearly allows the clutch plates to do their job correctly. Why is this all happening? Because clutch cables stretch over time, thus the adjustments. At some point you won't be able to adjust it any more . . . then it's time to replace the cable! Good luck on your upcoming class and remember, it's a LEARNING experience. Make sure you eat something nutritious, bring plenty of water, and despite any jitters, approach it as a chance to LEARN! We've heard that some instructors tend to be "barkers" . . . if you feel your instructor is yelling a bunch, just let them know that you can learn just as well with a few kind words instead! Good luck and can't wait to meet up with you in Calabash! – Mama Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Ruth, Here's an example: sit down, close your eyes, and imagine the bike is running and in neutral. Now, let's get going! Pull in your clutch lever, shift into first, slowly let the clutch out and see yourself riding forward in first gear. Now, get ready to stop. See the stopping point. Use your brake(s), pull in your clutch, come to a stop, shift to neutral and now you're in a resting position with the bike. You can use this visualization over and over and try all sorts of combinations (i.e. shifting gears into second, downshifting, etc.). It may look silly to someone else in the room, but trust me, it will help you envision a controlled sequence of events. This way, when you go for your next lessons and course work, you'll have practiced the exact hand/foot maneuvers you'll need. Good luck!– Mama For Ruth who didn't pass her course the first time and is getting ready to take it again: Don't give up and keep practicing. I have posted several times about my trials and tribulations, and if you ever read previous posts about my adventures in getting an endorsement, you will know it took me three separate classes to get it right. At least you went into mud -- I actually slid sideways across the pavement -- naturally, an automatic disqualifier. For me it was a very mental thing to learn to coordinate all 'four paws." If you have ever driven a stick shift, you have some knowledge of the whole shifting thing. To 'practice' I used to mentally go through the motions as I was driving my Jeep. I also practiced just the way VTwin Mama recommended to you. I didn't worry so much about things like curves and turns -- I was just hoping to make it upright in a straight line! And I also got a Honda Rebel to practice on around my neighborhood -- an area that doesn't see very many cars except for the immediate neighbors and with a lot of space and lawns . . . and yes, I also laid her down a few times until I got the hang of everything. But practicing on my own outside and before the classes helped me become more familiar and comfortable with the whole process. Good luck and keep us posted -- know that you have an excellent support group here. – Annie (note from Mama: thanks for letting Ruth know she is NOT ALONE and sharing your own pathway that eventually brought you the success you sought. Yes, this is one of the places for sharing and caring . . . getting together with sisters in the local area is another . . . women's riding organizations are listed on my Women's Sites page.) Thursday, June 9 For Annie who offered her support to Ruth who is starting her riding adventure: Thanks for the encouragement Annie, I plan on getting "something" that I won't turn completely gray if I drop it to practice, practice, practice on. I have also ordered the "Ride like a Pro Video for Ladies." I have my kitchen set up as my practice bike for now. Thanks again for the support and wonderful site. – Ruth (note from Mama: this is good . . . you're formulating a plan for learning . . . that's very VTwin Mama sister smart!) Thursday, June 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, I wrote to you a couple weeks ago, I am a beginner, haven't taken the course yet (can't get in till July) so have practiced a little with my Rebel 250 at a parking lot nearby, and I am even more excited now than I was before, and am now in 5th gear!! I love it, love the wind and everything! I check your site daily, and always look forward to it. I still have a long way to go, and a lot to learn. Thanks so much, I'm so glad you are there! – Penney Dear
Penney, Tuesday, June 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, On June 12 I repeated the second day of the class. To get my confidence up even higher, I road my bike to the class . . . which quickly became the envy of the other students. The instructors were the same two gentlemen and they expressed great pride in my driving there on my bike. The day and the test went very smoothly. Not only was my confidence much higher, but the initial fear was no longer there. I did very well on the evaluation and finished third in my class only being docked 4 points. I was so excited. The icing on the cake, however, was my boyfriend sitting on his bike next to mine when I came out of the building. All I could do was smile! He smiled back and we went on a nice long ride together, putting on over 100 miles. It was a perfect way to end the weekend. So, I want to say once again . . . THANK YOU for being here and I plan to visit daily to learn even more. – Christie (used to be a nervous newbie) Dear
Christie, Monday, June 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Dorothy, Tuesday, June 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Alex and Gaby, Wednesday, June 29 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 Thursday, June 30 Dear Mama, Dear
Ruth, |
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