For
sassy,
classy
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motorcyclists©
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Wednesday, September 1 For fwswayze who was looking to remove grips without damage: I have watched someone replace their handgrips on their cycle, a sport bike. He took an air hose that had a long small point on the end and blew air under the grip. This loosened the grip and allowed him to pull it off with no problems and did not damage the grip at the same time. He used the reverse method to put the new ones on. I hope this helps! Ladydruzer (note from Mama: now this is something I've not heard of, but if you have the equipment, it seems like a procedure less likely to incur damage.) Wednesday, September 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Judy, I can understand that it seems like people are out to judge you, but how about viewing it this way . . . they see a strong, determined woman on a motorcycle taking her first steps to being a full-fledged rider. They are in awe because they know that not everyone chooses this! Any oopsies they witness are simply watching a greater rider in the making! Adopt a big grin that says, "here I am, and I'm going to do it, despite my beginning mistakes." Then keep at it! Mama Wednesday, September 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, In June, for our 25th wedding anniversary, he bought me a Ridley automatic. The size is perfect for my small size and I don't have the clutch issue. It sounds throatier than our Harley and my husband has to shift through the gears like mad to keep me off his tail! I practiced all summer, got the bike broke in and got some experience. I am not sorry I took the safety class, I use that information every time I ride. I am just sorry they didn't have the time to deal with my clutch deficit! But--Look at me now, I took my skills test yesterday at the DMV and got my motorcycle endorsement . . . take that boys!!! Thanks to your great web site to keep me encouraged and to know everyone has a lot of the same issues as I do. Thanks to my husband who's been great support and bought me the bike!! Now when I get the biker's wave, I can wave back and say, Yes, I am a biker, too! Kelly Dear
Kelly, Wednesday, September 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Donna, Wednesday, September 1 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Samiam, Thursday, September 2 For Laurie who is looking for travel routes to Boise, ID and I said there was a site somewhere . . . Here's a link to California motorcycle trips via interesting roads. I'm a 53 single lady and recently bought a '03 Volusia. I rode a Virago 250 for 9 years and a 125 scooter for 10 years. This is mountain and desert road riding. NO dirt for me! I had no one to teach me so I taught myself! It took some getting used to the weight of the Vol but we are one with the machine now! Desertcricket, aka Linda (note from Mama: yes Linda, this is the CA site I was thinking of! Unfortunately, it only contains some NV road trips in addition, so we're still on the hunt for a good site that chronicles other rides throughout the US. Kudos to you on your own riding adventures and everything you have achieved . . . the Volusia sounds absolutely devine!) For Laurie, she may want to check out www.chromeroads.us. I don't know if Idaho is included but it's worth a shot. Also, for riders in/around/going to CT, there's a site (www.ride4ever.org) Hugs, Bryna (note from Mama: ok, Chrome Roads documents parts of NJ, PA and DE. And now we have something for CT! It looks like we could build a page here at VTwin Mama with other site links to get the whole country cataloged!) Thursday, September 2 For Samian who is looking to get the seat off a VLX: I have a VLX as well, but a 2001. Look at the back of the seat, there are 2 allen head screws (not directly in back, a little on the side) -- undo those screws and slide the seat back and up. This of course being if you have a stock seat. Good luck. Tara (note from Mama: thanks for the input!) Thursday, September 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kim, Thursday, September 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kathy, Thursday, September 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Charles, Thursday, September 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, If any of your readers have the opposite problem and find they aren't "touring" as much as riding around within 100mi or so of home, and want to trade an '03 or newer Road King or Electra Glide Classic for an outstanding cruiser, I'm open to trades and everybody saves sales tax. :-) If any of your readers are ready to move up from a Sportster, my wife's opinion is that this bike is far better balanced, and it's for sale for $17,000. Dave Williams Dear
Dave, Thursday, September 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, We are now trading in our Wide Glide for a new 2005 Ultra Classic. The passenger seat on this bike looks like it "may" solve my sore behind problem. My question to you is: Do you know anything about the Ultra Classics? The salesman assures me that I could ride all day and not be sore on this bike. I am hoping that this is correct, as we are getting the new bike next week . . . and I would really like to be able to go on touring rides with my husband. Thank you for any info you could give me on the Ultra Classic. Pat Dear
Pat, The fact is that seat comfort and overall body comfort can be due to many factors. If it's truly just your bum on the seat however, you may want to check into getting a gel seat pad which can be an added external pad that is strapped into place or one that is actually inserted under the seat covering (by shaving out part of the seat). There are many manufacturers for this solution. Mama Thursday, September 2 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Diane, Friday, September 3 For Laurie who is looking for travel routes to Boise, ID: VTwin Mama here with another suggestion! Have you checked out Road Runner Motorcycle Cruising & Touring magazine? Chock full of adventure routes and savvy no holds bared reviews -- published since 2001. If you click on the individual issues, you might find ones that cover various portions of the route you'll be traveling! http://www.rrmotorcycling.com. Friday, September 3 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Friday, September 3 For Pat and her husband who are trading in the Wideglide for an Ultra Classic: My husband (boyfriend at the time), traded in his Wide Glide for an Ultra as well. What a difference!!! First we purchased a 2000 used Ultra Classic took it to Sturgis and back about 900 miles one way (we live in Southeast Wisconsin). We only took one day to go out to Sturgis and one day back!! My husband is a motorcycle mechanic and did not like that our Ultra was fuel injected. He prefers carbureted, so when we got home, we went to Lake Shore Harley and purchased our brand new 2001 Classic. In the summer of 2001 we took our Classic to Niagara Falls, up to Quebec, over to the East Coast of Maine and down through the states back home. Due to bad timing and a huge Soccer Tournament, we had to ride from Vermont home (appox. 1200 miles) in one day. The seat on the Ultra and Classic is very comfortable!!! My butt or legs didn't hurt from the seat, just needed to be stretched once in awhile from sitting in one position for so long. I now ride my own bike, but I do ride on the back of the Classic when we go on trips or poker runs. And I do not have any complaints on the seat... Keep in mind the seats might be a little hard when first purchased, they need to be broken in just like your favorite pair of shoes. Sue (note from Mama: thank you for sharing your take on the situation . . . it looks like there is hope for Pat's comfort yet!) Friday, September 3 For John whose bike has been backfiring since day one: Has John had the pipes on his bike bored out? If so, it may have to be rejetted. Just a thought. Tara (note from Mama: I did not think to ask if the bike had been modified in any way . . . and yes, new pipes or altered pipes could be causing this problem. Still, one would think the mechanic caught this, but then, one never knows!) Friday, September 3 For Carmine whose bike ran out of gas and now it's running rough: I suspect that accumulated crap that settles at the bottom of the petrol tank was sucked into the carbie when the tank went dry. You won't believe the crud that builds up as sediment inside your petrol tanks as the years go by. Dust, rust dirt, not to mention the stuff that actually comes with the petrol you hose in from the pumps. Four bits of advice: Don't let the tank run dry, install a filter between the petrol tap and the carbie, unscrew and clean petrol tap filter twice a year, and upend and clean out petrol tank twice a year. Kevin in Oz (note from Mama: point well taken and would explain the poor performance! Thanks for the tips on minimizing the potential problems.) Friday, September 3 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Robin, Saturday, September 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Michelle, Saturday, September 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jasmine, I am now assuming you have not ridden before. It would be to your benefit to take a motorcycle riding course where beginning skills could be tried on a small 250cc bike (or something similar). This would give you a feel for the power and handling characteristics and help you determine what you might want in the future. You might also benefit from visiting the Beginner Bikes site -- they have a page on getting started! Mama Saturday, September 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jasmine, Saturday, September 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Shannon, Bikes in the 125-150cc range are usually dirt bikes, although many are street legal if they have a horn, turn signals and a headlight. It's time to go shopping! Visit local dealers and have a salesperson show you around. One thing I'll note is that these type of bikes typically sit high as they are designed to have clearance going through brush and you'll need to explore whether they could be lowered. Mama Saturday, September 4 For Kim who is leaning towards buying a Honda Aero: I wrote to you a few years ago about my Honda Shadow 600 that I bought and how the handle bars hurt my back because of being so far away and me being so short (5 foot even). Well Kim's letter made me want to write again. My husband and I went to our first Honda Homecoming they have every year in Marysville Ohio at the Honda Plant, well they had several bikes you could try and they all had tags with specs on them and prices except one. Well I sat on that one and it was like it was made just for me!! The best fitting bike I had ever set on, of course I had no idea what it was since there was no tag. We left to look at some other things and while my husband was watching a motorcycle performer I went back to the bikes and found someone who had a book and found out the bike I had sat on was the 2004 Honda Aero 750. When we left that day I went to our local Honda dealer (this is my third trip there) and I bought the Aero. The best purchase I have made so far in regards of a motorcycle. I love it. It is a little heaver than my Shadow 600 but it feels lighter because of the center of gravity. It fits me so well, the seat is not quite as soft as the 600 but the back pain no longer bothers me from the handle bar problem and my hands don't go to sleep with this bike. I have very short arms and as soon as they have risers for this bike I will get some because that should make the handle bars perfect for my reach (stock ones are not bad though). I highly recommend the Aero. It has smooth shifting, my husband had to do some adjustments on the clutch so I could pull it easier and now it feels really good. I have had so many compliments on this bike already (have had it 4 weeks now) and I have put several hundred miles on it. I was not riding much because of the lack of comfort of the 600, now I am back to wanting to ride all the time again. Unfortunately summer weather in Ohio has not been to great for the 2nd year in a row, and I am hoping we have an extended summer so I can ride a lot more. So Kim, try out a few bikes if you are short because every little aspect makes a difference in the fit and comfort of a bike when you are short and have short arms and legs, and a bike that fits good make riding so much better. Try the Aero I love mine!!! Thanks for having a place for me to vent and brag!!!! Shelia (note from Mama: thanks for the input on this bike! Lots of good information here, which I'll be adding to my pages of bike opinions organized by make/model, but still haven't got together! And congrats on your own riding journey . . . bragging rights are definitely welcome here!) Saturday, September 4 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Gloria, Yes, you may turn out to be a naturally gifted rider as far as the mechanics are concerned, but then again, you might find that learning on a smaller bike to be a more pleasant experience. Many women report that they are glad they spent 6 months to a year on a 250-400cc bike first before choosing their dream bike in the cc range that met their needs. Others graduated to that next step in a matter of weeks. What will your comfort experience include? If possible, borrow a 250cc bike and get it to an empty parking lot for some beginning lessons under the guidance of your husband. Do not be dismayed if he turns out to be less than patient with your learning lessons . . . not everyone is cut out to be a teacher. That's why riding courses exist! Still, this would be a way to take some beginning steps and determined FOR YOURSELF what you think will work for you as you start out. If you decide to proceed with the purchase of a bigger bike right off the bat (I started on a Kawi 750 myself) then again, have hubby get that bike to a place where there is no traffic, no obstructions and room for you to breath. It would be helpful to pre-talk out with your husband what you hope to accomplish in each learning session so that you are not overwhelmed, as this can quickly put a damper on things. You might also want to consider getting the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies video. This way you could watch riding practice in action and discuss the various techniques with your husband beforehand. This kind of open dialog will show him that you are excited about riding, but want to make sure that you are learning step by step, not just willy nilly. Have fun and go forth and ride . . . we look forward to giving you your own biker wave soon! Mama Sunday, September 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Janice, Sunday, September 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Sunday, September 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
No Name, Perhaps you have not seen many women riders in your area, but trust me, they are around! Check my Cool Links page, and at the top, you'll find links to the top women's riding organizations and be able to find local chapters. This would be a good way to meet other women riders in your area and build a support group for yourself, a great step for women riders who are just starting out. Mama Sunday, September 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
tdean, I'm now sending you to a specific Concours Internet site, the Concours Owners Group, and it notes on one page: Got a technical question about the Concours? Ask The Concourier Technical Editor, Guy B. Young II. I think you'll find a quicker answer here! Mama Sunday, September 5 For Ladykruzer who talked about her jitters: When I read your post, it made me think of my SO. He is very good to me, and very encouraging, but he is also an excellent rider. He seems to have a knack for riding, and makes it look SO easy. Makes me feel like when I get on my bike I'm klutzy and awkward. I can't take turns as fast or as tight as he can, I can't swerve like he can. And when I lead, I feel badly cuz I'm keeping him from riding as fast as he feels comfortable. And now I'm more challenged because I just went from a Virago 750 to a V-Star 1100 (which is absolutely beautiful and I love her!!!). My new bike is much heavier, and I don't touch the ground as well yet (waiting for my drop kit to be delivered to help me out there). But when I express these thoughts to him, he tells me that he is proud that I'm doing so well on a bike that is so big (esp for lil old me at 5 feet tall). He said that he's happily surprised at how well I do ride the bike as he was worried that it might be too big for me. And he never tells me that I have to go faster, turn tighter, or snake the bike the way he can. Because he knows full well that exceeding one's comfort zone is a sure way to end up hurt. He knows that once I'm comfy that I'll be more daring. I've been practicing in a church parking lot near my home, getting used to turns and stops on my new baby. And the kicker of the situation? I've been riding for 15 years. So even though I have all this experience under my belt (including 5-6 hour road trips up north), a new bike is just that . . . New. You gotta get used to her, and she has to get used to you. So if your husband wants to go riding with his pals and go fast and such, let him. But gently remind him that you won't be riding AT ALL if you are laid up in a hospital from an accident from exceeding your comfort zone. Then ask him if wouldn't please help get you to a spot (parking lot, etc), where you can practice on your bike. Remind him that more you practice, the quicker you and he will be out riding together. And BTW, I've been on a crotch rocket, and I give you a LOT of credit to ride one. Only rode shotgun, but didn't like it at all. Don't like the speed I guess, or the implication that if you ride one you have to go fast. So kudos to you, you're one up on me sister. Keep it safe, keep it comfy, and good luck :) Julie (note from Mama: thank you for sharing such an honest accounting of your own journey in riding . . . it's always helpful to be reminded that we are not alone in our trials and tribulations, but with sincere effort and determination, most of us will become accomplished riders. Yahoo!) Sunday, September 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, I am not afraid to ride again but I am fearful of how long it may take me to do it. There are days that I feel like I could ride with my shoulder but my husband nixes my idea at every turn. He feels that I need a full healing before I ride again. In my head I know that he is right but with the rate I'm going , I may not get to ride again this year. I'm afraid that if I have to wait until next spring I may forget how or become apprehensive. I've wanted to ride and have my own bike most of my life (I'm 37), and finally made the decision to bite the bullet. Do you or any sister have advice about riding now so I won't forget or suck it up and wait? Renee in Toney, AL Dear
Renee, I can only tell you from experience that when I flew off a road at 70mph (into a soft bean field) and severely pulled a muscle connected to my collar bone, that I did NOT ride until I was fully healed, and yes, that was the next year. It's true that I had a lot more riding time/miles already than you do at this juncture, but ask yourself this: if you needed to once again handle an emergency situation, would you physically be ready/able to do so? I'm thinking that to risk re-injury at this point in your convalescence would be foolish to your overall goal of a lifetime of riding. My suggestion: why not take this time to learn more about your bike, it's maintenance, how it works, etc. by pouring over a service manual?! This way your lovely bike stills receive attention and you'll be so much more "in the know" about it! You might also want to get the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies video as a review of slow turns and other useful maneuvers. If you watch it with your husband, you can open up a discussion on what went wrong, how to correctly do that which did you in, and be that much more prepared for when you are healed and fit to ride again. Turn that lemon experience into lemonade! Mama Sunday, September 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have been riding a very long time (>30 yrs) and feel capable of riding just about whatever I choose. BUT I feel most comfortable and confident on a mid-sized bike, which is why two of them are in my garage now. Some say you have to have a 1100 or bigger for a long trip. Hogwash. When I started out riding there WERE no 1100's for us to ride (I sound like somebody's parent, don't I?). I have a V-Star 650, and that little Yammie has carried my butt a long way - I have completed Ironbutt rides on it, and am leaving on it in 2 days for a Border-to-Border Ironbutt Association ride, Mexico to Canada and back. I am 5'3'' and rode many miles with the stock seat and no lowering kit. I had a custom seat built recently but more for vanity reasons - it's awesome! I am lucky enough to have a local custom seat builder who does beautiful work. I have Nelson-Rigg soft saddlebags, tankbag and tailpack, and you can go a long way with that. If a person doesn't mind staying close to the legal speed limit, a mid-size bike is plenty for traveling. It's those who run 90mph just because they can on their huge-bigger-is-better bikes that contribute to our ongoing image problem with the non-riding public. I think women just getting into motorcycling feel pressured to "size up" rather than be perceived as "weak," and this probably contributes to at least some of them not sticking with it and really enjoying it. (If the truth were known, this probably goes for some men, too. They don't have to ride 1100cc + to be "real men"). And then there's the safety issue, the most important. Please encourage women to feel comfortable with their own ride, that a goal of bigger-is-better may not be doing them any good. There. There's my two-cent's worth and change. All you sisters out there, ride safe! Theresa Dear
Theresa, Sunday, September 5 Hi
Mama, I gave the Black Shadow to my husband as a gift. I ride with his brother but wanted to enjoy my husband's company and the thrill of the ride. I really surprised him. He's also getting the safety class as a gift from me. I'm so excited now that we can enjoy this together. Our son has told me to go on and get a dealers license because he thinks I will eventually end up with a Harley and at least 4 or 5 more bikes between what I have and what I will end up with! Thanks again for the site. I learn something new every time I visit! Muffin Dear
Muffin, Sunday, September 5 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Melissa, Monday, September 6 For John whose bike has been backfiring since day one: Had the same problem with Sportster. This was when I just began to ride it. I felt like rocket woman as I backfired and flamed down the road. Very frustrating. Could be the intake valve, fuel mixture or leak in carburetor seat. Sometimes valve clearance goes away because valve bangs into seat and elongates, thereby, making valve clearance go away. Check for carburetor manifold air leaks; that will make it run lean and backfire. Look in your book or ask if this is a four-valve per cylinder engine. There are twice as many valves in some of the new engines and only one has to go bad. Sometimes the only way to check for slow valve leakage is to pull the head, leaving the valves in it, turning it up-side-down, pouring solvent into the valve pocket - to see if it leaks through. On the Sportster it took 40 minutes to leak through. That told me it was bad. Be sure they checked timing. Had bike to HD dealer, an independent and last independent, fixed the intake valve problem. Ran beautifully after that. Cecilia (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your first-hand experience. I shouldn't have been so quick to call John's bike a lemon maybe . . . and have to remind myself that not all mechanics are created equal!) Monday, September 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Vicki, Monday, September 6 For Jody who was looking for floorboards for her Honda VLX 600: Here is a set of floorboards made specifically for your bike by MC Enterprises USA. Hope this helps. Knight Bows (note from Mama: every little bit helps!) Monday, September 6 For Tracy who was wondering about riding with her kids as passengers: Hi there . . . good question about taking kids on bikes. For what it's worth, here's my two cents . . . I have 2 kids, a daughter who is now 6 and a son who is 8. For the longest time, the kids never got close to the bikes; the rumbling and loud noise scared them. Then, when they were about 5 and 7, they all of a sudden wanted to try riding. My SO and I took them on his bike, a Yamaha Road Star. It was perfect because I could sit pillion and one of the kids could sit between me and the driver. We took them one by one down the block, turned and came back. They loved it. But before they got too excited, we sat them down and explained a few things to them. First, we told them that every time they ride they MUST wear jeans, shoes, and a helmet. I have a few of them, one xs and one small. They didn't like that all that much, but they didn't have a choice. Second, we told them that when on the back, they can relax and enjoy the ride, but that doesn't mean they wiggle and squirm. We told them that doing something like that could make it hard for us to drive and we didn't want anyone to get hurt. We taught them the proper way to get on and off the bikes. But most of all, we taught them that being on a bike wasn't like riding on a toy electric bike, it was serious, like driving a car, and although it is great fun it's great responsibility as well. It's a year later, and the kids both love to ride. When it's nice they are always asking to take a drive. We don't drive long, maybe 20 min or so, and never freeway or above a 35-40 mph road (I'm mom, I'm paranoid, don't want to go too fast). But the thing I'm way proud of is hearing them tell their friends "my mom and stepdad ride motorcycles, we go too, but it's a lot of responsibility" in an oh-so-mature way. So to answer the question about kids on bikes . . . when they are ready, I think you'll know. I'm very proud of my kids, not cuz they ride like their mom, but because they understand that it's a fun thing that is to be taken seriously. And if they decide they want to drive when they are older, they will remember the lesson they learned and treat a bike with the respect it deserves. Good luck to Tracey, and have fun riding with your son . . . it can be awesome :) Julie (note from Mama: insisting upon following important riding rules is a key ingredient to letting the kids join you on the ride . . . but as you note, it's important that the individual child's ability to understand the serious nature of it all must also be gauged.) Monday, September 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jessica, Monday, September 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Robert, Unfortunately, I was only able to locate a set of floorboards that incorporate a heel/toe shifter, but not just a heel/toe shifter on its own. What does the dealer's part department have to say about this? Mama Monday, September 6 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Louise, Tuesday, September 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, 1. Will the rear tire, now a 180x70 but slightly smaller diameter from stock 150/80, hit inner fender? f it does, can a heavy duty (available) spring help or should I only go 1 1/2 down? 2. I will match front fork springs with stop at same measurement as rear, so can you suggest oil weight or is trial and error the only way? Will oil weight make noticeable difference? If so, how and what will the feeling /result be? 3. Kick stand shorting best method? How much /is there a direct ratio formula? 4. My riding style ...rarely aggressive mostly cruz or rare long highway trip 2/5 hrs on interstate, very smooth. I have riding 44 yrs and own several types....thanks. David, '95 Honda Magna VF750C Dear
David, Tuesday, September 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, However...I took my Sportster out in the parking lot of a local school, and was shocked at how jelly-gut/rubber-legged NERVOUS I was on it. It felt like it weighed a million pounds! (I'm 5'8" tall and weigh 123 lbs) To make matters worse, at a stop, flat-footed on the ground, my handlebars tilted and I dropped the bike on myself. The second time I went out to the parking lot, I was too scared to turn the handlebars far enough on a low-speed turn, and once again, dropped the my bike. I was so frustrated and angry at myself; I felt like such a loser. My husband then bought me a Suzuki Marauder 250 to practice on until I get good enough for the Harley, and it is indeed, as you have advised, a starter bike that does not scare the snot out of me, and I am doing MUCH better (I'm on low-speed roads now). I have since noted a lot of comments about the Sportster being top heavy. My husband says that I need a whole lot more upper-body strength and muscle. Are there any Harleys that are NOT top heavy that would be better for me to ride? I really only want to ride a Harley. If not, what intermediate bike should I be looking at for my next ride that has more of a Sportster feel...or should I just go straight onto the Sportster when I am super-comfortable with my Marauder riding? I just discovered your site last week, and it is just wonderful! Thank you so very much! Louise Dear
Louise, It's true that the Sporty is top heavy (high center of gravity) as compared to other bikes, but this in itself can be overcome. Like many women riders have noted, they found practice time on a smaller, used bike, especially coming straight from a riding course, to be a Godsend. The fact is that it will take months of practice to really learn and master the basic riding skills that will eventually translate into skilled riding. Boy, if I could recount all the oopsies I had in the beginning, I'd have to start a whole new website! Your dearest hubby, however, does have a point about upper body strength, but again, this is not just for the Sporty. At your height/weight it would be very beneficial to begin an exercise regiment to build those arm muscles. Visit the local sports shop to inquire after free weights (I got mine in a kit of three different weight ranges, 1lb, 3lb and 5lb). You'll find that building your leg strength is also useful. Although mastering riding techniques will lessen your need to strong arm the bike, there will always be those moments when you'll be glad that you've got a little bit more oomph in your both your arms and legs. For instance, long distance riding is much easier IMHO when your body is in overall better condition! Tons less fatigue. The riding course gave you some good ideas on how to proceed with your own practice sessions, but you might consider getting the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies video. It shows a women rider on a big honking bike doing really slow maneuvers and the like with full explanations of the dynamics of what is happening as a synergy between you and the bike. Again, many readers of this site have written in and noted what a difference it made to their riding confidence. You may also want to scroll down my Cool Links page . . . there is an excellent site that shows you picture by picture the technique to properly pick up your bike should it decide to "take a nap," as I call it! So, take heart and become one with bike! You CAN do it! Mama Tuesday, September 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
DB, Tuesday, September 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, I rode down following my husband on his Roadstar Silverado. I was comfortable and confident and loving every minute of it. But this is not to say there was not a small incident with a very stupid turkey buzzard. We had only gone 17 miles when I saw that bird on the road. As my husband came up on it, he flew up on the guard rail. So, I slowed down just a little, kept to the right side of the lane and kept my eye on him. And sure enough he did exactly what I didn't want him to do. He takes off and is headed directly at me. I couldn't move over anymore more so all I did was honk my horn and waited for for the impact. He flew right into my left mirror and right into my left chest. That took my breath away for a second but when I looked back into my mirror he was still flying. It took me 3 miles to finally catch up with my husband and I told him I had to stop. So the first road I came to I stopped. I had to fix the mirror. He ask my what happened and I said a collision with that turkey buzzard. After a quick fix we were off and running again and the ride home was less eventful. I feel so good, because I reached my goal and it was the best time I've ever had. Thinking back to this time last year I was just a first year passenger. This year I'm a first year rider and survived the turkey buzzard. This was the first time I rode with my husband and even though he hasn't said much I think he is very proud of me. So, there you have it. Motorcycling couldn't get any better. Now I'm planning on next summers trips. Thanks, VTwin Mama for being there for a sister out there who rides. You have inspired us all. Donna Dear
Donna, So there you have it . . . someone with 25 years of riding experience who still had to make the very same important judgment call that would result in the best possible ending. Whew! Meeting your riding goals thus far is an inspiration to us all! Happy planning for next year! Mama Tuesday, September 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Richard, Tuesday, September 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Liz, Tuesday, September 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
5-Speed Challenged, Tuesday, September 7 For Renee who is injured and not quite healed but wants to ride: Her best bet is to not ride until her physician says shes recovered enough to do so. I recently went down on a long road that was 4 gravel when I attempted to make a relatively quick turn. I managed to only bruise my ribs badly. I was almost 2 hours away from home so I rode the bike home. (it only had scratches on the faring) It was a very painful endeavor. It probably prolonged my healing time as a result. I know all too well how strong the desire is to want to ride when you cant. Its not worth it! Teazer, another die-hard rider (note from Mama: good message here!) Wednesday, September 8 Hey Mama, Dear
Theresa, You are not alone in your point about women getting bikes that are on the high cc end of things too early on in the riding experience (or at any juncture). As it happens, this letter just came in today from my friend Kevin is Australia. So, let's get an international view on the subject: Gday
Petra, On a diff note; I have been doing some research...just out of curiosity...regarding women who drop their bikes when first learning to ride...or after returning to riding after an absence...I have talked with women Terri and I know who ride and many of the girls in the UK Bikers Room and some girls I chat to on Net who live a few hundred Kay's north of me. And something which I have long suspected to be true immediately became apparent. Bear with me mate. Every time I log onto your site I see a couple of new letters written by women who have dropped a bike in their first few days/weeks on the road. Most of them seem not to have done so because of a road hazard or defensive riding maneuver. How many times have they said they turned the handlebars and the bike fell over? Many times as we both know. So I started asking around in Oz and in UK...and things are diff in both those places. Several girls...(including my own Terri)...have NEVER dropped a bike, not ever never. More than eight out of a dozen girls in UK bike room said the same thing. Half a dozen or so Oz girls and UK girls admitted they had dropped bike when hitting oil or gravel or obstacle on road...or when slamming on brakes too hard to avoid a car driver. But the majority of them so surprised about women dropping bikes just by turning handlebars or riding around in car parks. "Don't they have [expletive deleted] riding schools?" This from Topsy and Louise, funny chicks. So of course I pointed out to all that yes, the majority of women on your site prob have attended a riding school. "So why they keep falling over then?" asked Jayne. I played my trump card...explained many of your women [U.S.] riding Harley's or huge cruisers as first bike. The result was the same from everyone I spoke to..."Why the h*** are they riding such bloody big bikes in their first six months to a year of riding?" Trace said; "I've been riding all my life Kev, I'm 43 next month, and I have never even considered riding a Harley or anything over 800cc. I'm only 5'3 for God's sake and skinny with it. I doubt I could even hold the b*st*rd up properly, much less chuck it around the way I do my CBR 600." And therein lies the prob with nearly all of the women who write and tell you they have dropped a bike for no apparent reason Petra...and Terri agrees with me...those ladies just buying bikes that are way too big and heavy for them. Not one girl in UK Bike room has a Harley. Those that have cruisers are below 900cc. Only Rocchic, that I know of, has a 1400cc anything...she has the Suzuki retro gsx. So there ya go...interesting and a bit of a worry maybe...American women riders seem hell bent on riding bikes that are way to big for them, and obviously don't suit them for learning...re-learning on. I have a feeling you may have realized this yourself already? [Hmmmm . . . ] Interested to know what you think... It passed the time for a week at work...lol. Later, Kevin Hi
Kevin, Wednesday, September 8 For Richard who was searching for a trike kit for his wife's Suzuki: For Richard who was after a 'Venture' trike kit. Maybe you really mean a 'Voyager' bolt-on trike conversion kit?? Try http://mtcvoyager.com. Good luck. Trixy (note from Mama: yes, Richard wrote back and noted he meant Voyager, so your website address is spot on! And if Richard goes to my Trike Page, he'll find a number of people who have written in about this conversion kit. As for actual road test info, if you type in "trike conversion road test," you'll come up with a few reviews, not on Suzuki, but they chronicle some important points to ponder.) Wednesday, September 8 For John who wrote in last April and is always on the lookout for VMax info: I noticed this page while searching on something else Vmax related. I would like to say have a look at our site at www.enhancetech.com.au for a new accessory called the SASY for the Vmax, for the VBoost actually. He might be interested and so might other people on this forum. Regards, Barry Sexton, Enhance Tech (note from Mama: isn't it amazing what the search engines will spit out from time to time?! Thanks for sharing your product, something for consideration.) Wednesday, September 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Like Louise, I have purchased a Harley Sportster as my first bike. I have been out practicing, in parking lots, six times for about an hour each time. The second time I dumped it in a panic because I accidentally went into the grass. Not to let this stop me, I continued to practice parking lot riding and was doing well. Yesterday I took it out on the road for the first time and dumped the bike again. I was right by our house, a 20 mile an hour road with no cars. I was at a stop sign, intending to turn left and just didn't feel experienced enough to know how fast to go while turning from a dead stop. I was nervous before I went and should have trusted my judgment and not gone out on the road. After yesterday I was questioning my ability to learn. Louise's letter made me feel so much better! I will learn to ride and will not continue to sit on the back of my husband's bike! I know everyone is different but do you have any idea what is a typical length of time to learn to ride before going on the road? Thanks Mama. No Name Dear No Name, Here instead is what I think might prove to be a more useful measure than time: put up cones, or mark the parking lot with tape or use tennis balls cut in half to simulate a typical 4-way intersection and practice until you are comfortable making the turns. Then, have another rider approach "the intersection" from a different direction from you so that you get used to practicing with an actual traffic "object" to contend with. Do this until your confidence in handling the situation feels good! My guess is that by mimicking that which has stymied you before will no longer be a key issue with a bit of "situation-specific" practice! For some practical advice on handling turns, take some time to read my Curves/Turns page. Mama Wednesday, September 8 For David who is looking for input on working on his Magna: There is a great forum on Delphi specifically for Magna riders/owners. I am friends with a few of the guys on there and they really know their stuff. The website is www.delphiforums.com. He can do a search for Magna information from there. Terri in Baltimore (note from Mama: thanks for pointing out another source of knowledge!) Wednesday, September 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, You don't have a place where someone can sell their bikes on your site? Is there a reason for this? I want someone to buy my bike that I know who cares about riding and learning. Any questions just email me at the above email address. Thanks. Marie Sweat Dear
Marie, Wednesday, September 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Vivian, It's possible that input has already been received and posted on my Helmets/Goggles/Hair Smush page, but it's late at night and I'm too tired to scroll through the whole thing! So, I am hoping readers will share specific makes/sites that would answer your question (or repeat a past message to help out a weary VTwin Mama)! Mama Wednesday, September 8 Dear
VTwin Mama, My problem is getting the kickstand to stay down. I can't flip it all the way down cause my shin hits the peg even in the up position. The dealership said I need an extension on the kickstand. Will that help cause I thought I needed a shorter kickstand? I do not have trouble finding the kickstand, just getting it to not flip back up w/o having to tip my bike extremely far to the right, almost dropping it every time. Until I do get the extension or shorter kickstand, I hop off of it and then lower the stand, leaning the bike very far to the right. I am 112lbs. and 5'1" and my bike is 550 lbs and once I drop it, that's it. I haven't learned how to pick it up yet. What do you suggest . . . the extension or the shorter stand? I am going to Harley tomorrow. It seems the J&P Cycles catalog doesn't have 2004 kickstands for the Sportster yet. Thank you. Christina Samborski Dear
Christina, Because the bike has been lowered, I think your best bet is to visit the dealer as you noted you would. This way, a service tech can look at your modified bike and choose from a number of solutions that will get the job done right. Do not hesitate to engage the tech in a full discussion about the subject, including what the best lean angle is for your bike, and how the chosen new part will accomplish this. It's just that important! A good tech should be willing to explain why an extension vs. a shorter kickstand will be the right choice. Mama Thursday, September 9 I have to agree with Kevin. Of course, I ride a Savage and just now put 20k miles on it and feel it's not even broken in. Most of the men I talk to started out on smaller bikes (125, 250), but some still INSIST that everyone needs a bigger bike as soon as they get something midrange. I don't understand it. I love my bike, and it gets me where I'm going, goes as fast or slow as I feel comfortable, and nothing stops me from doing what I want. I guess the women just think they need a big bike, or see the men on the big bikes and want to do the same. I'm not faulting the women, but they don't know that the man has been riding 50 years and grew into his big bike. I think wanting or needing a bigger bike is all in their heads. Peer pressure gets everyone sooner or later, I suppose. Terri in Baltimore (note from Mama: good point about growing into a bigger bike over time . . . often times what riders see going down the road or at a rally triggers a "hmmm . . . my dream bike? thought. The message continues to be, ride your ride, not someone else's. If you are confident that that is what you are doing, I say, go for it!) Well, I guess we Women in the US aren't just as wonderful as your women there. HA HA HA hardly !!! So what if we drop our bikes ? At least we have the balls to ride big powerful bikes. Sure I dropped my bike, once and only ONCE and it was after a year of riding. Why did I drop my bike you might ask ? Well to be honest, I got cocky with my riding ability. I went from a Rebel 250cc to a Shadow 600cc. It wasn't the power of the bike that got me. I was at a friggen stop sign. I got cocky cause I thought I could handle the bike like I did my Rebel. But so what. I picked up my bike, brushed my hands off and got my butt back on the bike. I do plan on some day getting a bigger bike. No, I don't see myself ever going above a 750cc, but who cares if there are woman who do? I say let people ride what they want to. You stick to what you like, let others stick to what they like. Tara (note from Mama: agreed! I know that there are riders out there who have never dropped their bike at something as simple as a parking situation or stop sign snafu, but quite frankly, if we starting counting the near drops, I'm sure we would ALL have a story to tell!) Thursday, September 9 For Judy who has some jitters making mistakes in front of others: Judy's letter about embarrassing moves in front of onlookers stuck in my head and I guess I have to put my two cents in. I can relate. (collective sigh: here she goes again...)[naaaaa, we love 'ya Linda!] This too shall pass. It took me forever to go out in traffic with my husband. My learning curve has been more like a long twisty. The first real ride we went on (I don't count the time we just went out in traffic some and came back) was down through the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley from Cleveland to Akron, about 30 miles one way. We stopped for a snack before heading back, and as we were getting ready to leave, I noticed a couple watching us from across the parking lot. He had a big Harley and she rode pillion. We had all waved our polite hellos, but now they were just staring at us like we're about to split the atom or something. I must have looked "new" or unsure or something. My husband gets over to the driveway, hovers, and pulls out and goes down the road before I'm even moving. So I did the stupid thing and rushed to follow him. I was not ready to be alone in this situation, and I didn't know which way he was going to go at the next light. I got myself over to the driveway's edge, looked both ways and pulled out, jerky as all get out. I could do better, but being under duress and knowing I had an all-knowing (in my mind) audience, made me very sloppy. I was SO embarrassed! I let my husband know that for the time being, the hovering would not do. He didn't realize he abandoned me that day, and now he always makes sure I'm ready to go. Of course due to my nervousness, as time went on, I had plenty more of these less than proud moments... almost every time I rode. I'm such a klutz sometimes. Until recently. Now I notice more and more people watching me. Especially women. Mostly women riding pillion. Maybe they're getting ideas about riding, too. I notice men watching. For instance, at the gas station in our neighborhood where everybody kind of knows each other... but now, instead of being jerky and sloppy and missing gears when I pull out, I do okay... not so much of a klutz anymore (on the bike, anyway). It took all summer with lots of saddle time every weekend, but it was worth it! I'm still on my Virago, with a VLX waiting in the garage. I'm in no hurry because I am having a ball and I don't want to do anything to spoil it. What a blast this riding season has been; 3100 miles worth so far; 146 Labor Day, and 101 the day before that. I still have a long, long way to go, but I've improved since that first trip back in April. I can keep up at 50-55 mph, I'm much better stopping on inclines (but I still don't like them!), I take curves better, I shift better for the situation, I park better, and I'm not terrified before I go out. I'm nervous, but no longer paralyzed with fear! It's healthy to have some fear but if it absolutely stops you in your tracks, something is wrong and some assessing is in order. And I always pray before I go out because I know anything can happen. I haven't been out in traffic alone other than when we get separated, but then we put on between 150-300 miles each weekend (sometimes we have three-day weekends). I have not had time during the week to go out alone so it's not an issue right now. I get all my freelance work done during the week so I can spend the weekend riding. And anyway, two bikes are more visible than one. That will have to suffice for now. Truth be told, I do plenty of "watching" myself. I see ladies out there that are obviously seasoned riders. They handle their big cruisers very well and I really admire them for that. Hope to be there someday, but I can appreciate now, some of what goes into that seasoning. It isn't easy. As we stand around taking our breaks, we often see 2-bike couples like ourselves. We've seen plenty of ladies on big Harleys that looked too big for them, probably because they're dragging their feet, which barely touch the ground, all the way to the driveway's edge before gingerly pulling out, barely keeping it together, trying to catch up to the old man. We saw a gal not long ago almost drop her bike in a parking lot and she wasn't even doing anything. She was sitting still on it! It's not the size, it's the skill level. We've seen guys who are struggling to handle their big bikes. Yup, guys. And it's terrifying to watch... for both of us. It is so important to trust your gut. If it really doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. If it does feel right (or close enough), go for it. The point is, you'll KNOW, deep down. Size aside, I had unrealistic expectations early on regarding the probable length of my learning curve, mostly based on someone else's expectations. I had nothing else to base it on, so I began to doubt myself. So how long should it take? As long as it takes, whatever that may be. After all, we're not carbon copies of each other, so how can our experiences be? Now that the question of size has come up several times, I think there is one important aspect that is being overlooked. Men are stronger. It is part of their physiology--- they were made that way. That puts them at a different starting point. I know there are large strong women who are stronger than some smaller guys, but I'm not talking about specifics. I'm making a (gasp!) generalization. I'm not saying a woman can't handle a large bike, I'm saying that in many cases a gal might have to work up to it in order to develop skills. One of my MSF (classroom) instructors leads a Goldwing drill team and her husband rides behind her. She stressed that she doesn't have the upper body strength to ride like a man, so she has to ride differently. Differently. She has developed skills. I still get occasional flack for riding a 250 even though it's just temporary. "Are you on the 600 yet?" seems to be the burning question, and it progresses from there. It used to bother me but now I don't care. I'll get there. It's strange how such a bunch of non-conformists can try to pressure you into conforming to their ideals. (!) And what's all this preoccupation with size, guys? When faced with these situations I try to say as little as possible, but sometimes I just laugh and tell them I'm a non-conformist among non-conformists. Then I can almost see the blank thought bubbles over everyone's heads. Anyway, my life is more important than anyone else's paradigms. Did I mention I'm having a ball? Ride safe ladies, and do it YOUR way! It only gets better. Terri in Baltimore (note from Mama: reading through your letter reminded me that every time I did something awfully stupid I was either rushing things or showing off, despite a lack of the full skill set! I still cringe on these remembrances! Over time, I realized that riding well, enjoying the ride, and pulling unscathed into my garage WAS the point . . . so that I could ride again! Therefore, whatever it takes in terms of practice, or staying away from situations one isn't ready for, or asking for advice or assistance, is ALWAYS the right thing to do. Yes, we are more naturally prone to believing that others are scrutinizing us when we are just beginning out, but if we remember that we are LEARNING to ride, then maybe the oopsies can be put into better perspective. And I STILL say that these incidents make for great story telling/sharing down the road . . . because almost everyone can relate, and that is our common bond! Whew, collective sigh, stop already VTM!) Thursday, September 9 Dear
VTwin Mama, Anyway, I just bought a used Yamaha 750CC two weeks go. I'm about 5'8" and it seems a little too big for me. That is, when I sit on the bike and put both feet on the ground, I cannot flat feet it. However, if I put my right foot on the break, the other is comfortably flat on the ground. Do you think the bike is too large or just right for me? I'm a little bit intimidated because this is my first bike. I know the basic of all of the controls like clutch and brake, and I've been riding up and down the alley street (straight line only). People are telling me how difficult it is to make a turn due to the speed - not too fast and not too slow. For this reason, I haven't try it yet. Do you have any advice how to make a turn with a right speed? I'm afraid that the bike may lean too much and fall. I don't think I can pick it back up it it falls. Thanks. Duke Dear
Dave, From previous postings it has been noted that it isn't absolutely necessary to be flat footed at a dead stop, but the consensus remains that most riders feel more in control if they are. A simple fix would be to get riding boots with a touch more heel or investigate a seat that would lower you somewhat. Making a turn at the right speed takes practice, and an alley isn't the place to begin trying! You want to have room about you without obstacles or distractions that allow you begin practice with plenty of breathing space so that wider turns can be first done so you get the hang of it! Any chance you know an experienced rider that could get the bike to an empty parking lot for practice?! That would be the ideal solution. Don't kid yourself on this point . . . if you don't know anyone, how about checking with local dealers to see what riding groups are around, and then go introduce yourself! Find a mentor. Really. I agree that not knowing how to pick up the bike can cause even more tension in your riding sessions because what are you going to do if it happens? The answer is: learn to pick up the bike! Here is one site with picture by picture instructions. Then, get a piece of old carpet or something, lay the bike down, and give it a whirl (have a friend assist in the lowering of the bike!). Once you master this, your confidence will soar! Mama Thursday, September 9 For Vivian who is looking for correct glasses/goggle solutions: What ever you get, make sure they are Polarized. Helps cut down on the glare . Also might want to check out Sunglass Hut . . . they have been coming out with a lot of new styles and even have the goggle style. Tara (note from Mama: hmmmm . . . that's interesting as one can find that shop in just about any mall! Thanks for the input.) Thursday, September 9 Dear Mama, We are now the proud owners of an '05 FLHTCUI (Ultra Classic Electra Glide) in rich sunglo blue. The local shop gave me a screamin' deal on trading the Wide Glide in. Stuff like this usually doesn't happen to me, so I thought I'd share this unique experience w/ you. Wife and I decided on the blue, and to go with an Ultra Monday night. Didn't sleep for crap. While tossing and turning, I'm thinking "Wouldn't it be cool if they actually had one and I didn't have to wait?" That simply doesn't happen w/baggers, especially Ultras, so I told myself to quit acting like a 5 year old, and went to sleep. Go in Tuesday morning after doing all my cypherin' and tell Todd (my salesman at the local Harley shop, who I consider a friend, so I don't have to "dance" with him) I need a new bike. "What are you lookin' for?" he asks. I tell him an Ultra for me. What color? Blue. Son-of-a-#$%&*, he says. Just got one in, it's still in the Quonset hut, isn't even on the floor yet. Seems somebody backed out. At least he thinks they did. The stuff was laying on his desk when he came in that morning, so he is pretty sure it's his to sell. No matter, it's mine now! :-) Dave Dear
Dave, Friday, September 10 Hi
VTwin Mama, Dear
Carla, While I understand that not everyone wants to join a riding organization, did you know that the Women on Wheels group maintains a rider's list on their site? Here is the link to the state-by-state directory. Check other organizations on my Cool Links page (logos with links at the top) . . . just because you drop in to say hi at a meeting or email the state coordinator does not obligate you to join. But don't count out the possibilities of finding women riders who ride "outside" their organization's events, because of course they do! Mama Friday, September 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, They are little heel rests that mount right on the footpegs. You can get them alone or in combination with nice chrome and rubber footpegs. It really pays to go ahead and get the whole set though because the cost of the stirrups alone is not that much less than with the pegs. Kuryakyn has a nice selection of matching grips and other accessories too. Diane King Dear
Diane, Friday, September 10 For Duke who is beginning to ride and had questions on seat height and turns: Hi there . . . reading your site on my lunch hour, and had to send along a few ideas for Duke . . . First, if you feel the bike is too high for you, have you looked into a lowering kit? It could drop the bike an inch or two (which doesn't seem like a lot, but it is), help you feel more grounded. And the idea that VTG [VTwin Goddess :)] gave about getting boots with a bit of a heel is great . . . I did that and it did help me. Second, as far as turns go, I just got a video to help me with the same thing. I found the info on VTG site, and can't wait to try out the techniques. It is at www.ridelikeapro.com. The video I got is for ladies who seem to have a good riding foundation set, as it addressed things like tight turns, leaning, and tips to keep the bike upright no matter what the lean or the speed. I would imagine they would have a video that could give you some tips as well. And how about a riding class . . . have you taken that? Hope this helps a bit, and good luck!!! Julie (note from Mama: thanks for the additional points and elevating me to Goddess status . . . so much to live up to now! Yes, the video you point out has been a real life saver for many riders who need to master skills or are looking to hone their technique . . . listen folks, riding is a life time commitment to learning, and there is NO getting around that fact!) Friday, September 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Robin, Friday, September 10 Dear
VTwin Mama, The trick does require you to find that point where the clutch is slipping, but also gripping just enough to make the bike move forwards. Once youve found this point, lock your hands/fingers in that position and use the back brake to control your speed (you can even stop completely with the back brake, the bike should still be revving just a little over idle, but it won't move until you release the back brake). It makes it easier to adjust your line if youre too fast or too slow in a slow tight turn (like a figure 8 or u-turn). I find that just using the throttle and clutch is too jerky and gets you unnecessarily tensed for low speed maneuvers (walking pace), especially for beginners. Just so that you know, us blokes also get the jitters into blind corners we just dont admit it freely. The way I see it, your bike is your buddy, itll let know if it thinks you (or the bike) are ready for a corner, the only way it can do this is through your body. Beginners feel the bike talk as jitters, more experienced riders call it gut feeling . . . either way its telling you that you need to ride at your own speed and no one elses. Be smooth and keep the rubber side down. Danger Mouse Dear
Danger Mouse, I like how you put it about the bike "talking" to its rider. Becoming one with a motorcycle requires much practice and when the bike doesn't appear to be doing what you want, it simply means that more practice is necessary to learn how the bike handles and how you, as a rider, can learn what those characteristics are! That's why I also advocate that upon getting a "new" bike, it's always best to take it slowly so that the individual characteristics of "that" bike are learned. They DO vary from model to model! I know that when I was going to take my friend's BMW for an extended trip, I first rode 1,000 miles locally to get "the hang" of it . . . and boy, am I glad I did, or I would have found out the hard way that shifting down from third to second gear is tremendously different than my '76 Superglide. Could have pitched over the handlebars otherwise if I needed to do a quick slow down move to avoid a bad situation! Mama Friday, September 10 More on the "are we riding bikes that are too big" subject: I just have to respond to all this talk about women choosing bikes that are too large for them. I took the MSF class on a Honda Nighthawk 250 and immediately after I bought a HD 883 Sportster Custom. I found the HD easier to balance and maneuver than the Honda (except in situations where I was trying to "muscle" the bike while stopped) and it's definitely a much nicer ride. Granted, parking lot and driveway maneuvers need to be executed slowly and carefully. The 883 Custom is not overly large though (550 lb), it is really a mid-size bike (and it has a lower seat height than the standard 883). Sure, starting on a bike this size makes it more likely that a slow-speed or no-speed drop will occur than if you start on a really small bike, but I agree with Tara -- SO WHAT?! I have an engine guard to protect the bike as much as possible and then, after about a year, I'll replace the few small things that got scratched during the learning process. I feel much more confident on a mid-size bike when I'm on any road where the speed limit is over 50 mph. For all those women who have their heart set on a Harley Davidson (or another mid to large bike), I say go for it! Just take your time (no matter who's watching). Diane King (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your viewpoint on this.) In response to Tara's response: I am not saying that women cannot or should not ride big bikes. The point I was making is that too many American women seem to be learning on bikes that are obviously not suited to their newly acquired skills. Riding a bike should not be about "how big your balls" are and in terms of power . . . plenty of Aussie and UK women ride powerful bikes (600 to 900cc Fireblades, Hyabusa's, Blackbirds, ZZR 1100's,Triumphs). The difference is most of those bikes weigh two thirds less than Harley's and big cruisers. You cannot equate big (as in terms of size) with powerful. In the modern bike world only the V-Max could be considered a powerful, cruiser style, bike (not counting the new Honda Rune and Triumph Rocket which have just been released). All of these women spent six months to a year or longer on a 250 or smaller machine. Most then went to a midsize bike. Only a couple have since purchased machines over 900cc. And I don't believe I said that Aussie or UK women were more wonderful riders than women in the USA. I know women riders from all around the world. My Internet friends Merritt and Pierre are 12 months into a world tour. Merritt is an American woman who has ridden her bike in countries and conditions most male riders would shy from (www.photobiker.com if any care to read about her adventures). Stay Upright. Kevin (note from Mama: ok, I like the clarification that power/bike weight are not necessarily the same . . . and that if a rider chooses to start out on something bigger/more powerful, there are added considerations to the learning curve.) Friday, September 10 For Linda who wrote to Judy about new rider jitters on people watching: Linda C.'s letter really was wonderful. I truly adore my little Suzuki 250 and right now I don't care if I never get a bigger bike. My husband is still grouchy that I didn't just jump right onto his Shadow 600 and make it my own - I suppose cuz he wanted an excuse to get himself a bigger ride - but I am still positive that I made the right decision. I have 800 miles on my little bike now - I ride every chance I get - when it stops raining.... I have successfully achieved many of the newbie rites of passage - the kickstand drop, the burned out battery, and now, most recently, the famous drop at the end of the driveway for absolutely no apparent reason - I think I just lost my balance - it was kind of a slo-mo laydown. I am trying very hard to laugh at that one - my husband was out of town, the bike was half into a low pine tree branch so getting next to it was nearly impossible, the down side . . . saddlebag had my housekeys and cellphone, and the rear wheel was off the driveway and about 6 inches lower. I couldn't get the buttlift to work because I couldn't keep the front fork straight, but a neighbor saw me as she was pulling out of her driveway and held the handlebar straight while I pushed it up. I was muddy and dirty and shaky and late for work and my mirror was lopsided and floppy and the car was just sitting there by the house and I got back on the bike and wobbled off to work. Having read all the letters on your site about falls and fear, I realized that I had to get back on or I might never be able to again. I had to work Saturday morning of Labor Day weekend but it was a beautiful day so I asked my husband if he would ride over at noon and we could go to lunch and ride for a while. He was kind of grumpy about it but he did. Our first bike lunch date. Then, THEN, on Monday he asked ME to go riding! A long time coming, but I think we are finally a riding couple. He dragged me over some scary terrain - the Thruway, Route 17 (even worse - 17 is stripmall alley on steroids, and it was on one of the biggest shopping days of the year) and a windy road in a new development under construction - full of sand and gravel and dirt. And like Linda's husband, he stayed out far ahead of me and I had to scramble to keep up sometimes so I would know which turn he made, but I made it. And again like Linda, I am noticing people watching me. The guys - they smile and wave, and the women around here, well, some of them kind of tsk tsk, (jealous?) but others are giving me this "right on!" look. I know I am just riding a little puttputt (or, as my husband would say, a Lawnmower), but I am still having serious fun - and besides, it is absolutely the MOST perfect shade of blue. We are house-shopping in Florida (Venice area). I never thought a New Yorker like me could move to Florida - but now all I can think about is a year-round riding season! Wow - has riding changed me! Annie B. (note from Mama: my, my, my . . . but you HAVE continued to come along way sister and I am soooo proud of you! Sorry, but I did chuckle over the latest drop oopsie, but only because it brings back soooo many memories. I surely wish that at the time I had to pull myself out of so many scrapes that I had someone telling me that I'M NOT ALONE! But that was back in the early 80s and I didn't have a clue that I wasn't! And I also glad that Linda's letter validated your feeling that sticking with the 250cc bike for now is the right thing to do for you. You just keep motoring on and some day we'll hear that you've decided to graduate to a bigger bike, but one that is right FOR YOU . . . and the Annie B. saga will indeed continue!) Saturday, September 11 Dear
VTwin Mama, I actually dropped it once; had a car crowding behind me, was pulling off the highway (onto a gravel shoulder with a drop of approximately 2 inches down to that gravel from the asphalt) and was using the front brake. Bad idea. It felt like I had blown the front tire and then I felt the bike starting to go over - and I just stepped off it as it went. Couldn't have been doing over 15 mph, so the only thing bruised was my ego - note here: that car never did stop! It taught me a valuable lesson about braking and road surfaces that I don't think really sank in during that class! I certainly don't think it was due to the bike being 'too big' for me. This bike couldn't fit any better. I know my limitations & must have sat on nearly 50-60 different bikes before finally buying this one. I know I need to be flat-footed at a stop to be comfortable, I need the cruiser 'sit-back' style to keep the weight off my hands and arms. I need my reach to be relaxed to the handlebars, my foot position down low and slightly forward. I had forward foot pegs installed to be able to vary my foot position for even more comfort. I truly like this bike, but I already want something bigger and more powerful. This one has great acceleration for getting onto freeways and passing, but the vibration is bad at 70 mph - the cruising speed on our freeways. Its top speed is only 85 on the odometer; I haven't pushed it over 80 and don't intend to. I have heard good things about the smoothness of the ride of the larger cruisers and touring bikes and look forward to trying some of them. One thing that deters me from moving up in size is the mileage! This 750 gets upwards of 50 mpg. The bigger the bike, the worse the mileage, I know; and I'm really not interested in driving a bike that gets worse gas mileage than my little pickup (30 mpg)! But the desire is there. I've got my eye on the Honda VTX1300 or 1800 (although my husband's bike is a 1500 & he might have issues with a wife riding a bigger bike than his!) and I would love the opportunity to try that new Triumph Rocket III. I KNOW that one is too much for me (at least for now!), but have heard such good things about its handling I'll just have to try it sometime. Then again, I might be riding this 750 for several more years - just as long as I can ride, I'll be happy! To Louise who was wondering about the least top-heavy Harley on the market: At our last motorcycle show I sat on several Harleys - I personally found the VRod comes up very nicely under me! It seems to be a very well balanced machine. I also happen to like the looks of it. Amy Dear
Amy, Sunday, September 12 For Carla who wants to meet other women riders but not join a women's riding organization: I read the post about the lady who was wanting to meet other women riders but not wanting to join WOW in the DC area. I joined a WOW chapter last November, the one nearest me. What a disappointment. I stared riding in September, so joined just as soon as I could hoping to get riding in with more gals, etc. That has never happened. I went to all meetings, except this last August (we were in Sturgis!!). I have recruited 2 new members. One of them is a gal I met in my MSF class and we have been great friends and riding buddies ever since. But nobody ever rides. There are no group rides, might be 3 people ride to a meeting, but no rides afterwards. I don't get it. They always discuss fund raising ideas to raise money to get a banner, I guess to use in parades to promote membership -- members for what? There are no rides planned, no informal rides, nothing. My girlfriend and I ride when she can; she has little ones. My hubby is my all-time riding partner. I thought it would be great to go on rides and do "girl power stuff." I'm seriously considering not renewing. I understand people not wanting to go do meetings, etc., but to not ride? I thought that was the point. Any ideas/insights? Thanks, Glenda (note from Mama: although I have always been a lone she-wolf rider myself, and therefore do not have first-hand experience with riding organizations on any continual level, I am going to draw on a more general concept to answer your questions. Please do not take my reply to you as a criticism; it is meant as an affirmation of the inner power you have and hold and can share. Any experience is in part that which is already in place but also what you bring to the table. Each chapter or riding club sets its agenda . . . if you were expecting more, or more importantly, want more, then you have to say so and be ready to be a leader. Yes, it would nice if the chapter you joined already had everything you were hoping for, for in many instances that which you seek is already a reality. In your case, it is not. So what are you going to do about it? Shrug your shoulders and walk away? Perhaps this chapter DID have women that organized the types of rides you want . . . but over time, it changed. Is it not possible that they truly wish for someone to step up to the plate and say, "here I am and this is what I would like to do and I'm willing to do the work to organize it?" I think it's good that you first sat back during the meetings to look, listen, and learn . . . now it's time for action. Plan an interesting ride, set the meeting place and time, put together a flyer with the information and route, ask the chapter leaders how to get the word out, do it in plenty of time so as many as possible can participate, and watch in glee at the number of women, how ever many it turns out to be, will be glad to join you! If you are not ready to lead the actual ride, enlist a more experienced rider from the chapter to do this, or perhaps your husband could serve in this role until you are ready to do so yourself! One of my favorite sayings on the bulletin board above my desk where I do all my VTwin Mama work is this: "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." Go forge a trail Glenda . . . and your dream can be realized.) Sunday, September 12 For Annie B. and her continuing riding adventure saga: Annie B -- YOU ROCK!!! I've followed your journey and am impressed with your tenacity and determination! I admire you!! I hope someday to be able to meet you and shake your hand!! I have shared your story with my hubby. His comment: her husband should be proud and happy she's riding; I hope she hangs in there and that he'll come around!! A Kansas Girl (note from Mama: Since Annie began writing to the VTwin Mama site we have all been "witnesses" to her true-life account of the challenges, set-backs, teeth-gritting, teeth-nashing, tears of frustration, and tears of joy that many new riders experience. That Annie tells it with such candor and grace, while at the same time asking for advice and support, is a testament to her inner strength. That this site provides a safe haven for discussion makes my heart sing.) Sunday, September 12 Dear
VTwin Mama, The decision was made and it took about 2 weeks to locate one in Dallas . . . got it over Labor Day weekend. A little apprehensive, I might add, because all the men I know (not including my husband) still said I wasn't hoss enough to handle it. I think my husband knew my mind was made up and I WILL do it! Long story short . . . in one week (yesterday) I have put on 300 miles, all after work, and never knew I could possibly love a machine sooooooo much. Thank you for your insight as well and the other lady who wrote in to egg me on! Can't ever remember being this pleased with myself since I married my husband! I promised a pic, so here it is! Love and happy riding to all! Guaranteed, Sparkle is Sparkling!!!!!!!!! Dear
Sparkle, Monday, September 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Ray, Monday, September 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, The first things I had done were: a carb rebuild, new air filter, and oil & filter change. This has helped to reduce the amount of time it takes to warm up the bike to full function, and it sometimes runs without any problems, but the same problems are still there. I took the bike back in and was told that it's probably the igniter, that the change in power is due to the second cylinder kicking in, and that this is a common problem with Viragos (thanks for telling me that in the first place!). I am very new to bikes, feeling pretty helpless and at the mercy of the mechanics, and getting frustrated by the amount of money I've been putting up with very little results. Does the igniter diagnosis sound right? Do you have any other ideas or recommendations for me? Thanks in advance. Phu Dear
Phu, I'm hoping Virago owners will respond to your message with input on the "it's a Virago thing" portion of your concerns. I'm wondering if you are not having a fuel-related problem. There may be water or small crud particles in the tank that settle when the bike is at rest, and get sucked up into the system (i.e. the carb) when you want to run. A related part/function would be the fuel filter. This might explain why sometimes it runs ok, sometimes it backfires and then clears and sometimes just doesn't run right at all. In order to not be at the mercy of others working on the bike, make every effort to get a service manual for your year/make/model bike. Check with the dealer or my Reading Sources page for Internet sites that offer them. Even if you are not mechanically inclined, the troubleshooting sections will help you become more fluent on how systems work together and lists of potential causes for a wide variety of symptoms. This would be a good place to start . . . and then seek a new mechanic. Mama Monday, September 13 For Dorathy who was looking to lower her Marauder: I just put on a set of Honda Rebel shocks on my Marauder and it lowered me a good inch and a half. I also cut the stock seat and recovered it giving me another inch and a half. Good luck with it. No Name (note from Mama: thanks for this input!) Monday, September 13 Dear
Petra (aka VTwin Mama), Back then, I was on my own just riding through the park and having a wonderful time. I left the park and decided that I was having too much fun to stop so I went up a road I saw many other bikers take. It started out about 3 lanes wide and straight and I was really enjoying the breeze. Then it wound up past the Renaissance Faire and suddenly it was really narrow and going up a hill and really really really twisty. There was a nice guy on a Harley and he kind of followed me up as I took one curve after another with my heart pounding. Suddenly I saw a long straight part (finally!) pulled over, and turned around. I took the road down in a low gear because my teacher told me never to brake in a curve. It was the scariest ride ever and I have always been afraid of that road. Well, back to yesterday - there I was following him and I saw us going to the Very Scary Road and saying "no no no no no don't take me back on this road please" but of course he couldn't hear me. I am not sure I told him about this road, but he was going on ahead so I followed. I kept coaching myself through it and keeping myself calm, but there was only one incredibly scary part where it kept curving forever until I thought I was almost going into a circle, and then the curve finally ended. IT WASN'T SO BAD!!!! Then we got down into Greenwood Lake and went to an orchard. I rode on a dirt and gravel road, then on grass, and we parked to pick some apples - not too many - I was the only one with saddlebags. To exit, we rode on more dirt and gravel - and then through this mud that was in the middle of the whole road and there was no way around it and I DIDN'T FALL!!!! We rode down to another farmstand and got a malted and bought two ears of corn - no room for more - and then rode back along the Very Scary Road but except for the curve I mentioned it wasn't so scary anymore. We had an adventure together, we are an official riding couple, and I want to thank you and all the others on the site for your support and encouragement. By my next ride I will hit 1,000 miles, but the real milestone was yesterday. See you on the road! Love, Annie B. Dear
Annie, Since he seems to be more in tune with riding with you now, and finding out that you are willing to take on the challenges, I'm wondering if now is not the time to get the Ride Like a Pro video (perhaps the "for the Ladies" version). I don't recall in your past letters if you mentioned that you had purchased this yet. Here's what I'm thinking: it would be of great benefit to you and a chance (if he is willing to sit down and watch it with you), to discuss your continuing learning process. . . to open up a dialog on riding techniques. Even if he resists this, you'll be gaining knowledge and have more ways to talk to him about what you are doing. Hmmmmm . . . just a thought. I was scrolling though the Photo Gallery, and did not see a picture of you and your bike. We'd love to put a face and bike to the Annie B. name . . . many of us follow your saga with great joy as it makes for gripping reading . . . it's like a mini-thriller to see what happens next! Come on, let's get you up on the home page and show the world what another awesome VTwin Mama sister looks like! Mama Tuesday, September 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Desperate, Or, with any luck, an astute reader of this column will have some input! Mama Wednesday, September 15 More for Renee who is injured and not quite healed but wants to ride: Renee do not fear, I started riding at age 43. You have your manual from the class and when spring comes, just take it slow like you started in the class by feeling the friction point. And Mama is right about the video. Also what I do during the winter is read about riding from all different areas, VTwin Mama's website, books and magazines. I remember one of the things to during the winter to improve my riding is be a voracious reader. Good luck and I hope to read good stuff come spring and who knows, you might have a mild winter. Angela Kosar (note from Mama: this is a good message for everyone, as PMS (Parked Motorcycle Syndrome, i.e. Winter), is coming soon!) Wednesday, September 15 For Phu whose bike is running rough and lots has been tried already: My wife owns a virago 535. One of the problems we have had sounds similar to yours. After cleaning the fuel tank, filter etc. it still fouled spark plugs regularly. I knew that with a V-Twin motor it is sometimes necessary to run a hotter heat range plug in the rear cylinder. When I went to the NGK web site I found that the plugs for her bike should be BP7-ES not the BP8-ES which were in it. With this change the bike runs much better, more power, no backfiring, etc. Spark plug numbers, the lower number is the hotter plug. Be very careful when you change heat ranges. Too hot a plug can fry a cylinder in a hurry. Pull the plugs, a black deposit, usually sooty is indicative of a cold plug or too rich a mixture. Too hot or too lean is a white color. The plugs should be a light brown or tan in color. After changing plugs run it for a while and then check them again. DO GET A SERVICE MANUAL!! Chiltons makes a very good one for the Virago. Remember, carburetor is a French word for DON'T MESS WITH IT!!!! Good luck, Jim, '76 Shovel (note from Mama: ahhhh, a fellow '76 Shovelhead rider! Thank you for this excellent piece of advice and clarifying what carburetor really means . . . I had tears running down my face from laughing so hard when I read that!) Thursday, September 16 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
JCM, Thursday, September 16 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Pat, Friday, September 17 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Neil, If you would like to correspond with a VTwin Mama Mentor on this, just hop on over to my one-on-one assistance mentor program page and you'll see someone listed who has this bike and could possibly be a more specific source of information for you. Mama Saturday, September 18 Dear
VTwin Mama, Later, I was browsing through the catalog that came with the replacements and noticed that something looked odd. I took the book out and compared it with the pegs on the bike and realized my friend had put them on BACKWARDS. I had installed them the same way he had them on because I assumed he knew more about it than me. Anyway, I flipped them around the right way and they are great! They feel like comfortable floorboards, but have a much sleeker look. You can adjust them at different angles where your foot is cradled in there, or straight across like boards. I ordered a matching shifter peg, brake pedal cover and grips. The bike looks really nice. Sportster riders will love them because the vibration won't knock their feet off the pegs anymore. Darija Dear
Darija,
Saturday, September 18 For Annie B. who continues to grow as a rider: WAY TO GO ANNIE!! Time and miles seem to be the only things that really make riding better. And it just keeps getting better! I have 2 girlfriends that took the class with me last January; one was riding all over the place - by herself and with crowds (after 2 early falls) - and the other (who also had some early falls) is just now showing signs of being comfortable with it. I almost feel like I bullied her into a ride a couple of weeks ago, but I let her lead so she could set her own pace and by the end of the ride she had a big smile on her face! Keep it up, gal! Amy Harrison (note from Mama: I'm sure Annie appreciates the "atta girl" support!) Big hugs to Annie B.! Darija (note from Mama: now that's nice!) Monday, September 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Joe, Drawing on previous letters, you might want to direct yourself to the gas supply system. We've heard before (especially on new bikes or bikes that have been sitting for quite some time), where the interior treatment of the gas tank was flaking, sending crud up into the carburetor. Even very small particles can cause a problem. Check your fuel line filter for clogging and drain the tank for inspection. By any chance where alternative exhaust pipes installed somewhere in all of this? It's amazing how much different a bike runs then. They could be restricting the emission and causing problems back up the line. It's time to sit down with the manager of the service department, and if necessary, the owner of the dealership. Ask them to test ride this bike and if these top people are still hedging, inform them that you are considering taking the bike to a local independent mechanic or the dealership in the next closest city for evaluation and that you'll be sending them the bill. This should get their collective attention. If you do take this route, put your intentions in writing, noting previous work attempted, your dispute, etc. with a copy to Suzuki U.S. headquarters. Mama Monday, September 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Blackangel, Monday, September 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Missy, Monday, September 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Jimmy, Monday, September 20 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kaili, Monday, September 20 For Glenda and her disappointment with a WOW chapter: I too joined the WOW group, here in NC, and although it was just starting up, they only ride once a month if that. I joined so that I could ride with other women mainly so that I would not be intimidated by men or other riders. Needless to say it is all meeting and not enough riding. I also will not be joining that group. I did join the Southern Cruisers of Raleigh and that is a great bunch of people. It has a great mix of women and men riders and the men riders are very nice and very patient. We ride every Friday night rain or shine about 60 miles and we do have meetings but everyone always rides to where we are going. We have a long ride one Saturday out of the month and we will ride anywhere from 100 to 250 miles in one day. We also ride all year long winter, spring, summer and fall no matter what the weather. And there is no membership fee. September 11th was the first time I ever did a run, about 80 miles. We raised over $20,000 for the Duke Children's hospital here in Chapel Hill. It was soooo awesome . . . there were about 320 motorcycles of all sorts. All the roads were blocked so we had full run of the lights. It was also my first poker run, no luck there though. Although I did have a bit of bad luck two days prior. I was coming down this road not very fast and the light turned yellow so I locked up my back brakes and literally skidded through the light, scared the heck out of me. All I saw was my back end coming around to the front, I guess I must have hit them a little to hard. ST (note from Mama: thanks for sharing a group that makes sense for you! I think that no matter what national level group you join, it's the individual chapters' "flavor" that makes it right for any particular person.) Monday, September 20 To Louise who was wondering about the least top-heavy Harley on the market: My experience is that either the Low-rider or the Heritage Softail has by far the lowest center of gravity! Starla (note from Mama: appreciate the input!) Tuesday, September 21 For Desperate whose 1970 Yami 650 has some issues: The bike will run reasonably well on just one cylinder.
The side with the cold exhaust probably has a non-firing (or rarely
firing) spark plug. Check the wiring, put a new plug in and see if that
helps. The plug wire or the plug itself could be bad or the rings could be
shot in that cylinder allowing oil to foul the plug. If the rings are shot
(the old plug is black and wet), a new plug will help for a little while;
it will foul and probably stop working after a short period of time. Tuesday, September 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Frances, Given your previous riding experience you might want to consider several pathways into re-entering the world of riding. Since it's been awhile since you rode, would you consider taking a riding/safety course as a refresher? Sure, it's on a smaller bike, but the lessons are well worth reviewing under a controlled classroom/riding setting with instructors to help you polish those skills again. If you decide instead to just get a bike and begin riding again, then I would suggest that you have someone whom you trust to get that "new" beastie to an empty parking lot for practice. Setting up cones or other markers to approximate various traffic situations (for stops, starts, slow turns, etc.) will help you regain your control and sense of confidence and learn the specific handling characteristics of the "new" bike! Meanwhile, brush up on your riding techniques by refreshing your memory on best practices . . . either through books (check my Reading Sources page for some suggestions) or even a video like the Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies (a totally awesome review of many standard maneuvers). Put some or all of these thoughts together and decide what your best path is going to be, and above all, learn at your comfort pace, as safety is most important of all! Now, go out and do it! Mama Tuesday, September 21 More for Louise who was wondering about the least top-heavy Harley on the market: I
just wanted to let Louise know that all the Harley Sportsters 2004 and
above were re-designed with rubber mounted engines and lower seat height.
I rode my friend's and it really felt like a light-weight Dyna Lowrider to
me. It seemed like it had more power than the older Sportsters also and
they are a LOT cheaper than the Dynas and Softails. I
would think that the HD with the lower center of gravity might be
the Road King or Fat Boy. At least this is what I experienced when
sitting on them in the store and riding a Fat Boy for three years. Not sure about Harleys, but I have a Honda 1300 Retro
and when it's full of gas it's heavy. I kinda like it when it's low on gas
and keep in the back of my mind where to fill-up when I need some
"go-go juice". I think all motorcycles feel top heavy, but once
you have them rollin' it's all ok. I did find out how quickly one can go
down though, when I dropped mine trying to park...too much front brake and
over she went! I think it's more what feels comfortable to you. The Honda
1300 Retro and my previous bike, a Honda Shadow ACE 750, feel great to me.
Just my opinion... Tuesday, September 21 Hi Mama, Dear
Michele, Tuesday, September 21 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Lou, Tuesday, September 21 For Joe who is having mechanical trouble with his '04 Suzuki: In almost all of the states, motorcycles are included in
the Lemon Law. Look on the net for the Lemon Laws in your state and then
keep track of all the hours/repair orders etc. that your cycle has been in
the shop. It could fall right into the category of a lemon. Let the owner
of the dealership know you are considering this direction and it really
helps to get their attention. You'll have your bike fixed in no time at
all! Just another avenue to check out. Wednesday, September 22 Dear
VTwin Mama, I work with a woman who loves her bike dearly, but the last gorgeous spring day she didn't ride in to work, again, and I asked her why... she told me her bike was clean. HUH?! Why do people who love riding so much deny themselves the experience on a regular basis? Another guy I work with just doled out $17k on a new bike that he won't ride to work because he doesn't have any way to carry his lunch on the bike and still "look cool." WHAT?! Geez, people, get a life and go RIDE. Susan in Alabama Dear
Susan, Wednesday, September 22 For JCM who was asking about Hondamatics but also liked the Honda Aero: Hi VTwin Mama . . . Love your site!!! Have been reading for a while now. This is in response to JCM who is looking for a suitable bike . . . preferably a Honda. I bought a Honda Shadow Spirit 750. It is less bulky than the Aero, has a lower seat height and weighs about 30 lbs less. I love it. I finished my MSF class and am still practicing in parking lots till I get my license next week. So far I find the Spirit very newbie user friendly. Maybe she should go to a Honda dealer and sit on all of the bikes and find one that suit her height. IMHO she can't go wrong with a Honda Shadow Spirit 750. Irmi (note from Mama: glad you are enjoying my site Irmi and congrats on your own riding adventure. I appreciate your input on the Spirit 750 vs. the Aero . . . every bit of information helps!) Wednesday, September 22 More for Louise who was wondering about the least top-heavy Harley on the market: I have also considered this question when searching for my next bike. My personal rule of thumb is throwing a leg over each bike I'm looking at. I know in a split second if the bike "feels" heavy to me or not. So far, the best "feeling" HD for me is the Dyna Lowrider. It has a nice center of gravity, a low seat height and overall fits me well. By the way, I'm 5'4", BTW, HD lets you take bikes out for a test ride and they also rent bikes for a day or the week end. Considering how expensive HD are, I think it's a cheap way to find out if you really like a bike or not. Plus it also lets you try out various styles. Good Luck! Kathie (note from Mama: thanks for this added input and a reminder that test rides and rentals can be a good way to test out whether you like a bike . . . if you already have some saddle time.) Thursday, September 23 Dear
VTwin
Mama, One disturbs the peace and another keeps it. The third likes to take matters into its own hands. All three come from the same chrome horse corral. Name the corral and all three. This is what I have: Wild West Motorcycle: Gunslinger, Peacekeeper,
Vigilante; or Thank you for any help. Pam in Palmer, Alaska Dear
Pam, Thursday, September 23 For Michelle who is trying to keep highway numbers straight: My husband told me about a friend of his who writes on his tank and/or windshield with a grease pen. That way at the end of your ride you can clean it off and write your next day's adventure on the tank. What a novel idea! I'd never thought about this. I haven't tried it yet either so I don't know how easy it is to clean off. Another idea is using a tank bag with a clear window on the top of it. One of the ladies I ride with always has a map in this window with the route highlighted. I suppose you could also just write out the sequence of Hwys on a sheet of paper and put that in there instead. Good luck! Jennifer (note from Mama: tank bags are cool but the grease pen is novel! Quite frankly, for myself, as I tend to stop every 100 miles for gas, I just know the sequence for that 100 miles and while gassing up, recheck my next section. Seems to be ok on the brain power!) Thursday, September 23 Dear
VTwin
Mama, Dear
Sharon, So, one thought is that the ear plugs your husband is using are not doing the job very well. Here's an article and product review on webBikeWorld, and although it's more about noise, I'm wondering it the type of ear plug isn't important (as in, not all ear plugs are created equal!). Now, my next thought is that this pain doesn't sound normal (it's severe) and would advise that your husband have a complete ear checkup by a doctor in case there is some internal damage to the eardrum or related internal part. Even the smallest imbalance or nick could be causing the symptom. Mama Thursday, September 23 On Susan's "rant" that people have more more excuses than actual riding: Loved Susan's email to you regarding people not riding. I'd ride every opportunity that I was on the road if I could only figure out how to stuff my 6' tall 15 year old and 5'5" tall 14 year old into my saddlebags. I'm counting down the days till my 15 year old can get his license and endorsement so he can ride with me. He has ridden dirt bikes for years and I WILL let him ride a street bike with dear old mom. Seriously, I do agree that with more day-to-day riding comes better experience handling whatever is thrown your way on the road. Happy (and SAFE) riding everyone. Tracy (note from Mama: just think of the saddlebag support bracket system you would need!) I would love to ride to work everyday, but for some people it is just not possible. I got a job once as a receptionist and one Friday I thought I would ride my bike to work. Well that afternoon I was called in to my managers office and he told me to close the door. You know it is never good when they tell you to close the door. He said that I was doing a great job, BUTT my supervisor complained to the Vice President of the company about me riding my motorcycle to work. He said that I wouldn't be able to get lunch for the staff on a bike and I could only ride when the Vice President of the company was not going to be in the office. She is in everyday, so he was basically telling me I could not ride my bike. So I proceeded to write my resignation letter that day. I got another job and just as long as I can get there in time to change, it's no problem. ST (note from Mama: now this is a different experience altogether!) Susan, I SOO agree with you. Riding a bike DOES make you look cool. Well in my opinion, hehe!! I love to ride. I ride to go get lunch. I ride to go meet people. I really love to ride when my bike IS clean, it's all nice and sparkly!!! And half of the people that have HD stickers or now the big thing is OCC, they don't even OWN a motorcycle!!!! Loved your letter thou!! Tara (note from Mama: oh dear, OCC I'm hoping is Orange County Choppers . . . by me it's West Coast Choppers . . . every teenager I see has a shirt! Yikes!) In response to Susan in I wanted to let you know
that this website has been of tremendous help to me. I bought my
first motorcycle 2004 883 Sportster Custom in July. I took 2
different safety courses, one was pricey but got me up and going and the
second was a MSF course. I was sick during the MSF course and nearly
left many many times. Thankfully I stuck it out and passed and now
have that much desired M class license. I learned so much in
each of my classes but I must say the MSF was much more thorough. I now
have somewhere around 1000 solo miles under my belt and just returned home
from one of my first night outings alone. What a rush! I love this bike. I
must say I was intimidated at first, I surely didnt want to drop it and
put a scratch on it, but once I got over that little worry, I am doing
much better. I can keep up with my husband fairly well (this man is so so
awesome). I usually lead now because I noticed he was spending way too
much time looking in the mirror to see how I was doing. This also
allows me to ride at my own pace and if I have trouble, I know he is right
there to watch my back Thank you so much for the site Thursday, September 23 For Glenda and ST who are disappointed in the WOW chapters they visited: I too was disappointed when I joined a year and a half ago. The local chapter rode sporadically, were not very friendly to visitors or new members, and the meetings were not productive. I'd just about given up when I called one woman that lived near me. We rode a couple of times, I attended a couple of more meetings, found out I wasn't the only one feeling this way. I am now the chapter director, we have regular monthly rides, have increased our membership by almost one-half, and have many more happy members (old and new). It has been worth my time to stick with it. I've made some good friends and have enjoyed some wonderful rides with (and without) these gals. I agree with Petra, maybe what your local chapter needs is a shot in the arm and YOU are the person to administer that shot! Maybe all they need is some direction, they've just stagnated. I'm glad that I took the time to find out that is all our local chapter needed...it has been worth my time, I've met some wonderful women (and support members). Tracy (note from Mama: a shining example of how one person can make a difference. Kudos to you Tracy for stepping in with your energy!) Thursday, September 23 For Frances who has a dream bike in mind but is it too much?" I just got a 2003 Yami VStar 1100, graduating from my Virago 750. It intimidated me at first, the wheel base was a lot bigger, and the bike itself just looked HUGE compared to my lil Virago. But I found that after tooling about on it, it handles better than my lil bike. The center of gravity (which is so highly discussed) is better, and it feels more secure underneath me. The only drawback is I'm hesitant to take her out on the freeway as I need to make a few modifications (waiting on a drop kit, modified seat, and handlebar extenders). And for the record, I am 5 feet tall, 130 lbs, and when I'm on the VStar I can touch ground, but not flat footed. I am assuming that you are taller than me (hey, most everyone is, ha ha), I can't see where you would have a problem with a bigger bike. There is a technique for picking up your bike, it's listed at this site, and if I can haul up my bike, anyone can do it. BTW, the Ride Like a Pro for Ladies is very, very cool. I haven't been able to take full advantage of it yet as I'm waiting to customize my baby, but can't wait til the stuff comes in. Good luck! Julie : ) (note from Mama: and there you have it . . . it's doable! Check my Pick Up the Bike page for good links and the video is listed on my Reading Sources page.) Thursday, September 23 For Jim with the VStar 650 oil filter question: You can download a owners manual from the Yamaha web site. It'll show you what you need to know. Otherwise, if you're sitting on your bike, it's the lowest circular cover on your RIGHT side with allen screws in it, once you open that, you'll find another cover inside that you need to remove. Easy to do, just take it easy not to strip the screws.. The upper cover houses the air filter. For Mo with the 650 Custom question: My wife and I each have 650 Customs. Experience more than tire size will save your skin on a curve! The Custom is a great machine that will provide you with the speed you need and is quite nice handling in curves, corners, going up mountains, driving on the Interstate etc. You're right, it's much less pricey than a Harley. My plan was also to upgrade to a HD but we are solidly sold on the V-Star 650s that we can't even perceive that we should upgrade to the 1100 model. For Christina who upgraded her VStar 1100: You mention you upgraded pipes, re-jetted and "all that stuff". Does all that stuff include getting a Big Air Kit to accommodate the new jets? V-Stars are notorious for backfire on deceleration. Disconnect the AIS and it will square that away. If that doesn't work, might want to have your carbs synced. For Christina with the VStar cam chain noise: If the noise became louder, definitely check into it. If the bike is new to you and you notice the noise, synthetic oil is the key to quietness. For Cecilia regarding the VStar noise that sounds like a horn: That's the fuel pump that makes that noise. I found that out twice from experience, just shortly after hearing that "horn like noise" I was pushing my bike to the gas station. Re: VStar 650 RPM/shifting issue: To the individual with the V-Star 650: I'd like to say that everyone who owns this machine (2 in my family) have all mentioned the seemingly high RPMs this machine revs at hwy speeds. We also spend loads of time, as does everyone else, trying to find that elusive (non-existent) sixth gear! Even my friend who owns a 1600cc Harley does that so it's not just V-Star specific. If you find shifting to be either difficult or noisy, switch to a synthetic oil (Autozone carries V-Twin Synthetic by Mobil 1). Pricy but worth it! Consider browsing the delphi forums for our V-Star Forum. Loads and loads of information from other V-Star owners. Jim (note from Mama: you've been a busy reader, but appreciate all the input as every little bit helps!) Friday, September 24 For Sharon whose husband is experiencing ear pain when riding: I agree with Petra when she says to see a doctor about your husband's ear pain. If they can't pin down a source of the pain have your husband test ride a different bike. I ride a V-Twin without a problem, but when I ride on the back of my husband's Valkyrie I have this annoying and persistent buzz in my head. I've noticed this with and without a helmet. The Valkyrie has the same engine as the Goldwing (opposed 6 cylinder). The newer Goldwings are 300cc bigger than the Valkyrie, though. My hubby doesn't experience a buzz in his ears and head like me. He claims it may be because there's nothing in my head to stop the vibration! LOL! Anyway, it may be the frequency of vibration the engine produces that elicits the pain. Bring this up to the doc as well and see what she says. Also, consider the type of helmet he uses. If any wind is able to get into the helmet it may be irritating internal ear structures. I had a problem a few years ago (before riding with a full face helmet) where cold air would irritate my Eustachian tubes and cause sharp and severe pain. This was quickly diagnosed by my primary care doc and had a fairly simple solution. Jennifer (note from Mama: you've brought up good points to review with the doctor. I never considered that the frequency could be a contributing factor, so it begs the question, would he have the same problem on a different bike!) Friday, September 24 Dear
VTwin Mama, Have you heard of any cases of this happening to some one else? I'm still leery of riding my bike with 1000 miles and the mechanic found nothing wrong. They also call Kawasaki tech support and they have not heard of similar problems of this sort. If you can find something out and let me know, I would appreciate it. Thanks. Chris Marcotte Dear
Chris, Friday, September 24 For Kaili who remarked about the meaning of the word Valkyrie: Just read the message from Kaili 17 MD, about the Valkyrie meaning Warrior Maiden!! Wow! This is Sparkle again.......just got thru with a 1000 mile trip to Las Vegas Bikefest on my new Valk! I DO, I DO feel like a warrior maiden! What an outstanding ride I had! Ran into 45mph crosswinds, and the Valk felt like it was glued to the ground. How dare the men think I couldn't handle the Dragon! Awesome is all I can say. I encourage ALL women to reach as far as they themselves dare, if you think you can do it.........I know you can!!!!!!!!! Still sparkling!!!!!!!!!! The Dragon Rider, Sparkle (note from Mama: I am soooo happy to hear that the Valk is proving to be everything you imagined it would be . . . and more! Warrior maiden riders unite!) Friday, September 24 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Deborah, Taking a motorcycle riding course would be an excellent first step for you. And as you have your heart set on a Harley, be aware that many Harley dealers offer riding instruction classes, so call up and see! If not, they will know what courses are offered in your area. You may need to wait for Springtime however, but signing up now is a good idea as these courses fill quickly. Meanwhile, how about checking for a motorcycle show near you during the upcoming winter months when many "all in one" shows are held. This would give you an opportunity to see many bikes in one place and begin your shopping. Check the Motorcycle Events site for listings. If you are an avid reader, then you'll also benefit by picking up a book on the subject of riding . . . which chronicles many of the challenges you will face. My Reading Sources page has a number of recommended books. This way you'll feel like you're getting started already! I think you might also enjoy checking out my Cool Links page, which lists a Beginner Bike site (lots of useful information here) as well as the many women's riding organizations. Although you don't have a bike yet, why not meet women who do who can help guide you! Good luck and have fun! Mama Saturday,
September 25 Dear
VTwin Mama, I
found this website by doing a Google search on Novelty Helmets.
Because
many HD and cruiser riders seem to feel that either no helmets, novelty
helmets or the minimal sizes of DOT helmets are appropriate as a style to
match their types of bikes, I want to relate to you what it can mean in
consequences to your families, friends and loved ones when you make
choices about your safety while riding. On
September 3rd, my ex-husband was riding on WA State Route 14 in
the Columbia River Gorge toward After she
left my house, she called back an hour later.
Theyd just received word he was being Life-Flighted to We found
out what had happened; a car
made an unsafe pass on this 2-lane highway.
He was an expert rider, having competed in Desert and Ice Racing in
his earlier years, among other exploits.
To avoid a head-on collision, he ran off the road and laid
his bike down. That probably saved the cagers' lives. He was
wearing a novelty fashion statement excuse for a real helmet, one of
those chrome-colored German war shells.
Yeah, it looked really cool with his customized 98 Fat Boy. It
went with it really nice. He
fully bought into the bad ass image mystique that some HD and cruiser
riders seem to think is paramount to the whole experience of riding
what
crap! The neurosurgeons
got us together for a meeting a few days later.
They explained how the entire force of the impacts were transmitted
directly to his brain.
The force was enough to split apart his frontal lobes.
That was only his secondary brain injury.
The lack of lower, rear protection caused a basal skull fracture
damaging his brain stem. The
swelling, which can never be totally controlled,
further caused a stroke in the more severely damaged rear area
which, after 3-4 days, rendered him brain dead.
He died immediately after the decision was made to turn off life
support. I will
always be haunted by the sights I witnessed that week at Harborview.
My own personal anguish, and that of his family.
I am only able to tell this after reluctantly obtaining a prescription
from my doctor to keep my emotions in check so I can function normally.
My point,
of course, is when you all make choices about your safety, think about
this: Dear
Judy, Saturday, September 25 For Deborah who is starting out at 51: Hi Deborah, I want to say go for it. I just turned 50 . . . yikes! I know how you feel. I'm taking my MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course this weekend. I'm excited to get the ball rolling. There are many great sites for the beginner biker. Check out Mama's links. I've also have read many bike reviews by women on these sites to see what their riding. I also want a Harley, but to start, I'm gravitating towards the Yamaha VStar 650 Custom. A lot of woman have them and love them. I also got the "Ladies Ride Like a Pro" video. This is a great video for showing skills for riding slow and all the women are riding big bikes. I would suggest starting to do research on Harleys if that's what you want and read other woman's reviews on them. Good luck, and I'll let you all know how my class experience goes. Bye. Vivian Patterson (note from Mama: thanks for sharing that the 50s is a perfectly good time to start working on the dream of riding a motorcycle! You yourself are taking some great steps in beginning your own adventure and I applaud you for that. Good luck in your course!) Saturday, September 25 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Andrea, So, what are the choices? First, there is the straight-up lowering kit for both the back end and the front fork. Check with the local dealer on what solutions might be available, in either kits or shorter shocks. At the same time, ask them if a different, yet approved tire set, might bring the bike down some. Depending on how much lower you want to be, you might also consider shaving out part of the padding in your current seat, checking into a new seat, or even adding just a little bit more heel to your riding boots. These have been the top suggestions at this site and I think that any one or combination of these ideas will help. I'd love to hear back from you once you decide on your course of action so that I can add you and your bike to my Motorcycles for Short Riders list page! Mama Saturday, September 25 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Dan, First, double check that the plugs you are using are the right ones. You can do this by checking this specific page on the NGK site or checking with the parts department at the local dealer. Or perhaps a change has been made to the bike's system that requires a cooler plug. Have you recently added something or changed something out? In keeping with the KISS principle, I also suggest you recheck the air filter to make sure it is not dirty or clogged as this will alter the air to gas ratio and at the same time, ensure that your fuel filter is in good shape. Another suggestion is to check the integrity of the exhaust pipe connection . . . is the gasket in good shape and are the bolts tightened down? A warped gasket can cause all sorts of problems and is cheap enough to replace! There are a number of products on the market to remove the blueing on the pipe, but be aware that they can also take a little chrome off at the same time. Mama Saturday, September 25 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Tracey, Saturday, September 25 For Joe who is having mechanical trouble with his '04 Suzuki: Ask the mechanic to put all his thoughts on the Suzi into writing . . . then forward a copy to Suzuki America . . . (the 1400 Intruder is made in the USA). I am sure you will get an immediate response...if the mechanic is dumb enough to do it . . . remember . . . Suzuki has a duty of care and quality assurance to sell bikes that do what they claim they will . . . plenty of people have taken legal action here in Oz because a company's products do NOT do what they claim. I must also tell you I had a '96 1400 Intruder myself and it had so many probs in the first six months I owned it, I sold the bloody thing. The carbies are a real bastard to set up correctly. And the single front disc is useless, might as well just drag yer feet along the ground. BUT: plenty of others in USA rave about them...check out www.intruderalert.com Biggest Intruder site on the net. Good Luck. For women (and guys) who want to met people that actually ride: Go to www.rideoutclub.com and register. If no one in your area has a ride day planned . . . submit your own. This site is huge in the UK and growing fast in Oz. I checked and it does have an American section. For Missy in Australia seeking insurance on her bike for a track day course: Damned hard to find a company that will insure your bike for track days . . . but if you do, let me know. I know a few people who will NOT do track days because they cannot insure their bikes! For Theresa who does Ironbutt rides but calls them Buzzbutt instead: And anyone else looking for more comfort on long rides . . . all long riders here in Oz put thick sheepskin fleeces over their seats. Secure them by tying one strap over fleece in center of seat. That's it. Makes a huge diff after the first few hours on the bike. I know . . . I just rode a thousand kilometers in one day from Surfers Paradise to Sydney in 12 hrs. For Kaili who remarked about the meaning of the word Valkyrie: So many of your readers seem interested in the origins of the Valkyrie name I thought I would send you this link. Warrior woman not exactly correct . . . but is one aspect of the Norse Swan Maidens. http://www.vikinganswerlady.com/valkyrie.htm Commonly known as "The Choosers of the Slain." They would capture the souls of dead Viking warriors who died valiantly on the battlefield and take them back to Valhalla. Also had the ability to take on the shape of a swan or a crow depending on the circumstances . . . though Odin himself was often said to disguise himself as an old, one-eyed man . . . or a crow when visiting middle earth . . . our land. Hope some of your ladies find the above link helpful. As a matter of fact, the Valkyries are mentioned in the Beowulf saga . . . one of the oldest Scandinavian scalds (poems) in the world. For Jim who noted that the VStar seems like it needs a sixth gear: Hell, that's easy mate . . . change the sprocket sizes. For more highway speed go up one on the front sprocket or down about four (or more) on the rear. For more torque but less top speed . . . go down one on the front and up four or more on the rear. We do it to our bikes here all the time. Talk to a proper Yamaha mechanic about changing to better size sprocket. I don't ride a VStar and so am unfamiliar with the standard sprocket sizes. Guessing 16 tooth on the front . . . suggest leaving front alone and getting smaller sprocket for rear. Kevin in Australia (note from Mama: once again, thank you for taking the time to share so many thoughts and helping out! Each piece of the puzzle is better understood when we have more information!) Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Wanda, Monday, September 27 More for Deborah who is starting out at 51: I would just like to encourage Deborah to follow her dream at the "young" age of 51. I am 63, will be 64 in one week, and have completed my beginner rider training just 2 weeks ago. I also bought a Honda Shadow Spirit 750 the week before the class. I used to ride a small Honda dirt bike probably about 30 years ago, that was the extent of my experience with bikes besides riding pillion on my husbands 2 bikes. In January of this year our daughter took a class and bought a bike. My husband was drooling over it and I encouraged him to also buy one thinking I would love to ride as a passenger again. Needless to say I got the urge to "do it myself." So, with my daughter's and husband's encouragement I went for it. I passed my class on the first attempt. I am still practicing the things that I learned in the class in parking lots for right now but have an appointment with the DMV to upgrade my license on Monday. After that I will be street legal and can practice in the neighborhood till I feel comfortable riding in traffic. I think it is very important to hone your skills before attempting to ride in traffic. Taking a beginner bike class will only teach you the basics and certify you to practice, practice, practice till you get real comfortable in handling that beast under you LOL I have had my good days and bad days practicing but it is getting better and better. My son, who rides my bike to the parking lot, said yesterday that I am doing well and will be ready for my street practice when I get my license on Monday. This has been a challenging and fun adventure so far. I am so looking forward to a "real" ride with my husband and daughter in the near future. Irmi (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your own adventure in support of Deborah . . . you exemplify the "can do" spirit that is in all of us, although some of us need a little help getting the "can do" out!) Monday, September 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Dean, Monday, September 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, I have trouble with U turns and the dreaded cones but think practice and all the techniques I have read about will help that. My real problem is that my wrists, elbows and shoulders get sore after a long ride even just on a scooter. I am trying not to clench the handlebars and to balance through my legs/seat which helps. Because of this I have enormous trouble putting it on and off its centre stand without wrenching my right wrist lifting it as I push down with my foot. It does not have a kickstand and it is only 106 kg. I am small and light build and do not have much upper body strength (yet). I really admire the brave ladies who ride the big bikes and post in your site. Can you help me with centre stand tips? Thanks. Helen Dear
Helen, As to center stand tips, I got this from a site titled Motorcycle Training: The Beginners Guide: 1.
Position yourself on the left of the motorcycle, holding the left
handlebar with the left hand Hope this helps you re-review how you've been doing it! Meanwhile, you might have fun joining a scooter-specific discussion forum. I found this one "promoting scooter discussion." Check it out! Mama Monday, September 27 For Judy who has a strong message about novelty helmets after losing a loved one: I am very sorry for your loss. I believe in a situation like that it was a no win situation. Perhaps we can get the helmet manufacturers involved in paying for programs to help car drivers be more aware and also accountable for their actions. Laws need to be made to give these cage drivers jail time for running us over! They are using their vehicles as weapons to say the least. And the old verbiage, "I didn't see you," just doesn't cut it. Cecilia (note from Mama: an interesting idea . . . or perhaps starting a campaign encouraging helmet manufacturers for more coverage on non-DOT novelty helmet dangers.) Monday, September 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, I jacked the bike up and without weight on the tire the noise is less frequent but can be heard occasionally at erratic intervals as I spin the wheel. At first I thought it might be the rear caliper at the disc brake. But I think I can feel a slight vibration from the final gear housing when the noise is there. Should I be concerned? Can the final gear lock up on me when I am riding the bike? Please give me your advice. I plan to contact the dealer, but would appreciate your opinion as it is Sunday evening in Pennsylvania. No Name Dear
No Name, Monday, September 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Once that is done you can put a smaller tire on that front wheel and viola, the bike is a full 2 inches lower!!! Not any wheel will work. Rich is a specialist in this field and I suggest your readers write to him for the particulars. I met him via eBay. He has excellent references and exceptional pricing! Please check him out Petra, he is the BEST!!! I will be glad to send any of your readers a picture of the two wheels, side by side, so that they can see the huge difference themselves. Contact me at rsvp@directcon.net. Also, riders, if you have a 140 tire on the rear wheel, change it out for a 130, that will bring the bike down even more. Tina Reeves in California Dear
Tina, Thursday, September 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kim, Thursday, September 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Sandra, Thursday, September 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
BKRGRL, Thursday, September 30 Dear
V-T Mama, I would like to add one other element that I think is important for us beginners. I find after riding for a while I have spent so much nervous energy being sure that I am making my corners correctly, watching for cars, etc. that I am tired much sooner than I expect to be. Then I start making dumb mistakes. I quickly learned yesterday that I should have headed home ½ hour earlier. I was having so much fun that I didnt realize how tired, hungry and dehydrated I had become. Fortunately, I made it home ok, but not without two near misses. Needless to say, I will head home earlier in the future or at least take a break before heading on. By the way, I am 57 and have met so many women my age that have only been riding a short time. My friends are either aghast that I would be so daring or they are extremely supportive. For those that fear for my life, I try to remember that they dont realize how much time and effort I have put into learning and staying safe to minimize the risks. Thanks for all the effort you put into your website. I love it. There is so much information and so many practical tips. Carol Dear
Carol, Thursday, September 30 Even more for Deborah who is starting out at 51: Well, I started at 51 also. I took the course (MSF) in April. Did not pass. Retook it June 4th. Passed with flying colors. Bought my Harley Sportster 883 in April before I even had my license. A Harley was the only choice for me. She is a 2002 Sportster and at that time had 738 miles. Now, not quite 4 months later, she has 3200 miles. I love it. I am proud of myself for accomplishing my dream at the age of 51. Take the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Course. I had never operated a bike until the age of 51. It can be done and that is the place to start. Don't let your neighbors, friends or family try to each you. Its not that they aren't knowledgeable, it just better to have a neutral person give instruction. Less emotions involved. Congratulation and don't give up your goal!...It is so worth it! Cissi (note from Mama: what a wonderful letter of support! I am soooo proud of your own adventure in riding . . . wowee zowee!) I took the MSF course this last weekend and what a blast.....I passed yeh!!!!!!. I would recommend the course to everyone who is thinking of getting a bike. There is so much to learn. It was a reality check for me. It's so cool to see everyone riding their big beautiful bikes around, but it's going to take awhile to get there. I realized taking the class that practice, practice, practice is sooooo important. Getting to the point where everything is second nature is the goal, before getting out on the road. The first night we studied the book and the next 2 afternoon's were on the bikes. 5 hours on and off the bikes. It was fun, exciting and exhausting in a good way. My legs and stomach even got a little sore and I work out. I rode a hefty 125cc bike. It was perfect size and wasn't intimidating at all. I did drop my bike making a slow turn to get back in line. I grabbed the front brake and down she went. I was not hurt, but it was a wake up call. It can happen fast. I was thinking of getting a V-Star 650 but I may start out on a small bike and ride around my neighborhood until I've honed my skills. I'm planning on getting a bike soon so by spring or sooner I'll be out on the road. I live in southern California so we have a long riding season. Good luck Deborah -- go for it and let us know how you do. Newbie rider, Vivian Patterson (note from Mama: congratulations not only for passing the course, but from actually learning important lessons along the way! No, I don't mean the mechanics of riding, but figuring out that practice is your key, riding your own ride is essential, choosing the first bike size must meet your needs and not satisfy anyone else and realizing that patience is a virtue! Way to go . . . I think Deborah can clearly see that she is in good company and NOT ALONE!) I wrote in several months ago wanting to learn how to ride my late husbands trike. VTwin Mama gave me not only helpful advice but the encouragement I needed at that time. I got my license on my 51st birthday. You are only as old as you feel (you go girl). Since then I have joined a Goldwing Chapter and found many friends that are very supportive and fun. All I can say to any women out there is follow your dreams and make the most of life. Sue (note from Mama: I just wanted to cry with delight upon receiving your letter of support to Deborah! It makes my heart glad to hear that you are accomplishing your goals, meeting supportive people, and finding your way along life's rocky road. That you got your license on the 51st BDay is just icing on the cake. And I'm glad that my site was able to point out some pathways for you . . . I see Liz's suggestion of finding the Goldwing chapter near you was a winner!) Thursday, September 30 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Wudblee, No matter which solution you end up discussing, if your salesperson cannot answer the question on how the ride will change with each modification, talk with the service manager -- they can be a real fountain of knowledge. Mama |
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