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2002 January - JulyDear VTwin Mama, My question is this. I am doing a research paper as part of my homework in a home study course on Written Communication. The assignment - pick a consumer product that I might want to buy. I decided on V-Twins. If I was to go shopping for a V-Twin what would I look for? Basically, the assignment is to study a consumer product I might be buying, so I am going to pick this group's brains. :) Thank you for your time. Foxee Dear Foxee, And I haven't learned much more since then either! Oh sure, about the trials, tribulation and joys of riding I know something about, but the rest, not really. I think picking a bike is mostly about what you want to do in terms or riding with the amount of money you have available. For instance, I don't place a high value on speed. Going over 70mph on highways is not a priority, so I don't need a bike that can run at 100mph for hours on end without breaking down into itsy bitsy pieces. Really, I want to toodle along at 35mph on back roads oohing and ahhing at the scenery (gorgeous here in the mountains in Nevada/California) with a nice comfy squishy seat to keep my tush happy! Well, I've done a brilliant job of not really answering your question so let's see what the VTwin Mama sisters have to say about the whole thing, shall we? If you're asking yourself, "Yes, well, but aren't you called Ask VTwin Mama?" -- technically you have a point. I chose this name simply because it's the oldest reference to a woman street rider that I can remember! Mama Friday, January 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Hondamama, Monday, January 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Regarding Rain's response (Jan. 4) for lowering the seat (see Cherie's original question): Sargents is here in Jacksonville. I have several friends who have used them for custom seat work. They are excellent. Just my two cents worth. Linda in Jax Dear Linda, You would think with the vibration in my old '76 Shovelhead that I'd have a smaller derriθre by this point. Sigh. Mama Thursday, January 10 Dear VTwin Mama, When I bought mine, we wanted Harley Davidson. So that eliminated a lot of bikes. Next, we knew we wanted something I could ride for trips. We were going to start with a Sportster because it was the least expensive HD and smallest engine. When comparing the models, we ended up deciding on a FatBoy. The engine was large enough for good highway travel, yet the bike size was okay to ride around town on short jaunts. The best part was the seat height: it was only 25 inches to the ground. This was 2 inches closer to the ground that the Sportster. It made handling much easier since I'm not "Ms Muscle". And since I've been riding it for about 3 years, I haven't "grown" out of it as I know I would have with the Sportster. In fact, I'm considering a Road King or a Classic in the next few years. Better suspension for long rides (air shocks) and more trunk space! You know us girls...we have to pack a lot of stuff! I'm just planning for the future. I won't have any problem selling my FatBoy...I have 3 friends that won't let me sell it unless it's to them! My hubby and I plan on retiring in the next 5 years so look out! We'll be on the road 24/7 if possible. There is just too much beautiful country out there not to see it from the seat of a motorcycle! Good luck with your assignment! Chris Dear Chris, Friday, January 11 More Stuff for Foxee (researching the important points when buying a VTwin): Tell Foxee to contact Motorcycle Consumer News and they could probably help her. I am sure they have a web site (yes, at www.mcnews.com). They put out a fantastic magazine. Bobbye V-Twins huh??? Well I would buy either a Road King Classic with a FUEL INJECTED 1450 V-TWIN HARLEY POWERHOUSE....You could pull stumps with this baby...I owned a 883 and the 1450 is so much more, yes it is....The 1450 is smooth, the fuel injection is a wonderful added feature for convenience, much better fuel management, smooth take-offs, smooth idle speed, it is an excellent device when going through the high altitude also. I have never ridden any other brand f motorcycle except Harley, and I am one of those died in the wool riders, so I can not suggest any other v-twin. But I would say the new V-Rod is a v-twin of the future. With its liquid cooled engine, this baby can crank out some massive HP. If you want wind in your hair and from 0-60 in split seconds then you oughtta check out the V-Rod. For me I prefer the classic look of the big bulky front forks, the big fenders, the tush friendly seat, and the ability to stretch my legs on long trips, so that is why Bad Betty, my Road King Classic is in my garage...I would not mind having a V-Rod just for bragging rights, but my husband and I each have our own bikes, and we spent our allowances for the next 10 years last spring as we both got new bikes....Harley is the King of V-Twins in my opinion...MILWAUKEE IRON... Technical Info: My 1450 is a rubber mounted v-twin...Its technical name is a Twin Cam 88. 88.00Cubic Inches and the cc displacement is 1450 of course. Like I said it has electronic sequential port fuel injection. I think I spelled that right. It of course has 2 cylinders, it is a45 degrees v-twin air cooled engine. Torque is 86 pounds @ 3500 rpms. Compression ratio is 9.0 to1...Bore In. is 3.75, Stroke In. is 4.00....And I am a very satisfied Harley owner. If you have never ridden a Harley, check one out at your local dealer they would be thrilled to help you out on your quest for more info, who knows maybe you'll fall in love with a big twin.... Jo Ann Falash Dear VTwin Mama, Dear No Name, Some reviews written by women can be found at Woman Motorist although it is not complete. Readers, if you have other sites with bike reviews written by women (which I think is an important point) please let me know. Mama Friday, January 25 Dear VTwin Mama, I then took the Motorcycle safety course at a community college and passed it with flying colors. The Sportster was too much for me. After dumping it 3 times the first day I rode it, I was ready to give it up. Two days later my husband was determined to buy me a bike that I could ride. So at his insistence we bought a Honda Rebel 250 which was what I rode in the safety course. After just 500 miles on it, I was ready to move up. We sold the Harley and bought a 650 VStar custom. I am absolutely in love with it! It is so much more stable on the road, but yet so easy to handle. I am so thrilled that my husband did not let me give up on riding. Since I have developed a little confidence in myself and have been riding the VStar, I have had a blast and can't wait for springtime. Just think of the fun I would have missed. VTwin sisters, keep sending in those words of encouragement to those of us that still have a lot to learn. It is wonderful to know that you experienced gals have had some of the questions and fears that us newbies have. Be Safe! Chris M. Dear Chris, Thursday, January 31 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Rita, Dear VTwin Mama, I am wondering if anyone knows if there is somewhere that a beginner, with a license, can hire a bike, practice and/or get a little experience. Any direction or help you can offer would be appreciated. I am really interested in this but don't know where to start. Many thanks and I am looking forward to the next installment of the newsletter. Gayle in the UK (who is actually in Atlanta as it turns out) Dear Gayle, Well, seriously . . . it's true -- who is going to let a novice practice on their bike? And if you can't practice, how are you to know what bike you really want to get? Here's one thing I think might help -- get in contact with other women riders in your area -- they can offer local guidance and support. Try visiting the Women's International Motorcycle Association in the UK (WIMA-UK) to get you started. Any of my regular UK readers -- it's time to chime in! Mama Thursday, February 7 For Gayle who needs practice bikes (who turns out to be from Atlanta, GA not the UK, but then that was my ass-umption and well let's face it, I'm not perfect. Although I don't brag about that a lot. At least not in public!) When I first started motorcycle riding. I bought a Honda 550cb for $150. The motorcycle wasn't running at the time, but that wasn't too much of a challenge. Two hours, the carbs got cleaned, and it was running again. It became my practice bike. We still own that one. It belongs to my son now. My suggestion is buy an old motorcycle that you wouldn't worry too much about putting a dent in it. Make sure though that it is a good runner. It wouldn't hurt to have knowledge on how to fix them either. Foxee Have you tried to see if there are any motorcycle rental places in your vicinity? I have never rented a bike, but that might be a good place to start! Good luck! Betsy Ok, although I goofed up on the UK thing, I still think that contacting women in your area is good stuff. You can try Women on Wheels (just click on your state and see the list of women willing to talk with you) or try the chat room at Shinny Side Up to find area riders. (link is at the bottom of this page also). Mama Friday, February 9 For No Name about the Honda Shadow vs Yamaha VStar: I personally have not rode the Honda Shadow VLX Deluxe but have a friend who had one. It was a few years old and it only had 4 speeds. She did not like it because she could not keep up, gears where to high for mountain riding and quick take offs. (I don't know much about the newer ones, if they now have a 5 speed or not). She sold it and is now riding a 2001 Honda Sprit 750 and loves it. Now, on the other hand, my sister rides a 2001 650 VStar and she is happy with it. I have rode it a little and it does seam like it has enough pickup and its very easy to handle. Anyway she is not complaining about power. So that's my skinny on it! But you must ride the one that fits YOU the best. Barbara in AZ Dear
Barbara, Tuesday, February 12 Hi Mama, Dear Laura, Monday, February 18 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Lori, Friday, March 8 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Undecided, As for the extra weight and higher seat, the greatest clue here is to make sure that when seated, your feet rest firmly on the ground. If you are even the slightest bit tippy toe, you are never going to be comfortable and in full control. To reduce seating height, etc. you can get your seat "shaved," you can lower the whole bike with a lowering kit or you can get riding boots with a little extra heel. Some combination of all of this will put you firmly in control of the bike. Then treat you and the bike just like you were learning to ride all over again. Get to an area with no traffic and distractions. Slowly start relearning your turns and stops and speed and shifting and everything! I can appreciate your concern about raw power. But my contention is, get thee to a credited motorcycle school in your area that will allow you to take your new bike (if you decide to purchase it) and work with it under the guidance of qualified instructors. Let's face it, whether you are on the 250 or the 1200, a throttle is a throttle and too much of it will get you in trouble either way! We're behind you 100 percent. Consider contacting your local chapter of Motor Maids or Women on Wheels for moral support by great women riders who are willing to help! And write to us again and let us know what you decided and how it's going! Mama Thursday, March 21 Dear VTwin Mama, Well what do you know -- a motorcycle is much cheaper than a car to get running and I lived in Vegas at the time so what the hell I bought one. Of course it was too big looking and the seat height was too high but it didn't cost much and I got every bit of good out of it. I'm 5'2" so finding a bike my size and still being able to touch the ground is not fun. Anyway, what do you think of a Yamaha V-Star Custom 650? I haven't been able to find out much information from women that ride on this particular bike and I was wondering why. I'm also thinking of the Honda Shadow 750 A.C.E. I have yet to find a dealership in Oklahoma that I like the salesmen. They just have to emphasize that I need something like a 250 and as I'm not greatly experienced, I am no novice. Any thoughts or suggestions would be nice. Amy Dear Amy, As far as working with reluctant dealers, we started a discussion on that which can be found in the Viewpoints archive, starting on March 12 with Kimberly asking a question about bike price negotiation. Just scroll down to find some useful hints and tips about dealers. Hope these suggestions give you a place to start looking for more information. Also, read the next letter for Judi's experiences with buying a bike. Mama Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Hope, You are truly blessed that your husband is so supportive, but I also advocate contacting your local chapter of Women on Wheels or Motor Maids for additional support -- there is just something very wonderful about having women in your area to talk with! Keep in touch Hope -- we would love to hear more about your progress and whatever questions or experiences you would like to share. Mama Tuesday, March 26 Dear VTwin Mama, As for Hope... good luck with your 600 shadow. I really love mine! Insurance: I also have found that Progressive Insurance had the best quote -- I live in Indiana and my insurance was $190 for the year. Heads up, Spring is here! Shorty600 Dear Shorty600, Dear VTwin Mama, My intense desire to ride...a dream since childhood is tempered by my lack of experience. After looking over several web sites for women riders and beginners, I'm wondering if I've made the right decision with respect to my bike choice. I've fallen in love with the look and feel of the bike...I'm now questioning if it's too much bike for me. Will I be able to turn? Will I ever get it out of parking lots and onto the street? I'm having a battle between my heart and my head. Is this OK? Is this normal? Is my intuition trying to tell me something? I need your help Mama! Beth Dear Beth, Take it from every VTwin Mama sister that visits this site -- this too shall pass, and soon you will be heading down the road with your knees to the breeze and other body parts flapping in the wind. As I mentioned in my email to you, you've got two important components of good riding -- the desire and the determination. Beyond that, you're on the right track -- signing up for a rider's course is the next best step. And with your height, you should have no problems getting your feet to rest flatfooted on the ground at a stop -- a major biggee control issue. So double check that out in regard to your choice of bikes -- it's important. Now, extend yourself and check out the Women on Wheels or Motor Maids organizations -- chock full of women who are willing to help get those pre-jitter riding bugaboos out of your head. This is your Mama talking, your VTwin Mama that is. Go for it! Mama Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Chirsty, Thursday, March 28 Lots of input for Beth who is just getting started and is a little unsure of herself: Congrats on buying your Heritage. You will love it! As Mamma says, you've got the desire and the determination to succeed...and you will. I got a 2000 FatBoy for my first bike. Like you, I had a couple years of dirt biking with the kids and hubby. Yet I always wanted to take it out on the street. My husband and I always owned some kind of motorcycle but for some reason, I never rode them on the street on my own. I had no problem being the fender bunny for many years. After a while, I decided when I turned 50 it was time! I love my bike even though I thought it was too big when I first started. I also worried about cornering, stopping, stalling, etc. But that determination works wonders! Just remember...practice makes perfect! And I practice as much as I can! The first season of riding I put on 5000 miles and knew it was the right thing to do. Last season, I clocked 10,000 more miles in 8 different states and two countries! I replaced the seat, lowering it even more and never felt more confident than I am today. I can't wait for this year's riding season to begin. We already have plans to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway, attend a State HOG Rally, take a weekend tour of Michigan, and participate in a National rally with HOG that crosses Canada into New York. I hope to see you in my travels. I'll be the one with the big grin! Chris I jumped right off after the motorcycle safety course (it's great by the way) and bought a used Wide-Glide. Problem...the bike had been lowered for a short gal and I couldn't handle it well cause the center of gravity had been seriously mucked up. I am 6' tall and weight 150, and if you can't get your legs down in a position to use the muscles you are in trouble at stops. I "gave" the bike to my husband who has a 30" inseam and he rode it while his "tarbaby" was frequently in the shop (a long, long story on screwing with the motor in your bike) and I got a 1200C that hadn't been screwed with. Needless to say, after 2 years on the 1200 I was ready for something bigger and got a FXR4 (screaming yellow!!!) and love it. Meanwhile, my husband found the wide-glide a little low, had it raised back up (it had only been lowered in the rear, hence part of the problem) and now we both use it when our favorite is in the shop. So, my main advice is not only do your feet need to touch the ground, but you have got to be able to unwind those 36" inseams for any leverage also. Last, but not least, YOU GO GIRL! Remember your safety class training and keep your eyes on everything in your path and you will run with the wind also. Pat Boy can I relate to Beth's situation. I did not order my bike as she did and have to wait and wonder... I bought the bike first, took the Motorcycle Safety course (passed) and tried to ride my new Softail Standard, I dropped it a couple of times, nothing damaged but my pride. It seems right now a little heavy for me. I have had it lowered and have just ordered me a new 'low profile' Corbin seat that I hope will lower me some more. I am 5'4" and weigh around 160 lbs. In the meantime I bought a 1986 Honda Rebel 250, real cute. It is saving my life in that I am learning how to ride a bike and get my comfort level up where I want it. We just got back from Key West and I road it all over town with my Harley friends -- and kept up with them too! I have put about 400 miles on it so far and I love the little bike. I just wish I had bought it first then made my decision on the bike that would be best for me. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the Softail and still plan on riding it as soon as I can. I am certainly not giving up on riding it. Beth's height will definitely be a benefit for her. Just sending my two cents worth in... love the site! HDChik I've been riding now for 2.5 years. I started out on a BMWR1100R, 525 pounds of bike with a very high center of gravity. I to took the rider course before riding my bike on the streets and was glad I did. I also thought the bike was to big for me! So I went to a local place that had rental bike and was willing to spend a little time with me in their parking lot. I paid for 2 hours of instruction on a BMW 650 the first hour and 750 the second hour and off I went on my R1100R. Like you, I was determined I was going to ride and I did. I now have a HD Softail Deuce and wish I had bought it in the first place (it would have saved me many bikes to get to what I really wanted). You will do just fine and love every minute on the bike (even if the nerves act up for awhile). You will find the your bike is much easier to handle than some of the lighter bikes with higher center of gravity. Guess I've said enough. Have fun and enjoy yourself. Ride safe 2B4W -- Ellen Friday, March 29 Dear VTwin Mama, But Beth, if you read this, you will be nervous till the minute you actually head down the road on your new bike. Then after that initial shock of the new bike thing, you will be at ease. If all you have ever rode was dirt bikes, the biggest thing you will notice at first is the hefty feel of that baby. I think that a Heritage weighs in at around 700 + pounds, and that will feel very heavy at first. But once you get down the road, NO PROBLEM. All that weight will do after that is make you more confident, in wind, in rain, semi air blasts, and cruisin' the open highway at 65+ mph. That engine will sing and the air will sooth your soul. And the harmony from the pipes will let the world know you are free, and what a beautiful way to be free, on American Iron. (Milwaukee Iron). Hope Beth that you always ride free and with an angel on your shoulder. Take care, Jo Ann Falash Dear Jo Ann, Friday, March 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Barb, Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Hope, Curves are always tough in the beginning, but you'll get the hang of it soon enough. Keep on motoring dear VTwin Mama sister -- we're behind (and beside) you all the way! Mama Dear VTwin Mama, I throw the daily necessary items (hosiery, slips, shoes, etc.) in a backpack and have come to work on my bike and then I change when I get here. (a suit and riding boots don't make a good fashion statement) Casual Fridays do make it a lot easier. I enjoy riding my bike to work, as then when I leave at night, I have a different way to unwind and become one with the wind, the sun and the fresh air. When I get home, everyone benefits from my "attitude". (Parking is a lot closer to!) As the weather becomes more conducive to riding, you will feel the itch more and more and soon, you too will be riding whenever you can. I haven't ridden to work yet this year, but it will happen soon. Most of the cold is gone, but now we have rain. Keep the shiny side up and a smile on your face. Michele Dear Michele, Wednesday, April 3 More input for Beth and her 2002 Heritage Classic Softail choice: You will do just fine on this bike (2002 Heritage Classic Softail). I am 5' and I ride a 2000 Fat Boy that I had lowered an inch. Both the Heritage and The Fat Boy are very well balanced bikes and as long as you can plant your feet and take the safety course you will be able to handle this bike. Don't be afraid to try it. Once you get out there and practice you will see how much fun it is to ride. Just check locally for the clubs that are available to join. You will love this bike. So go for it. Julie C. in LA You go Girl! I am 5 feet tall and 110 lbs and I can ride one! You got me beat to hell on the height and saddle height also. No customizing needed on yours....ride free and proud.. you can do it. Teazer More input for Chirsty and her V-Star choice: The V-Star is an excellent first bike. I started out riding a 74 Honda 350 Dual sport and then took the MSF class. Hubby's 2nd bike is an 87 Heritage and he encouraged me to ride it, but it felt like too much bike for me. I bought a used '98 650 V-Star Custom. I absolutely love it. It handles great and is very forgiving. I am so comfortable on it, too. It's a great ride around town (I live in Phoenix) and runs well on the freeway too. My plan is to ride this for a couple of thousand and then move up to the Heritage. I wanted to ride something that I felt I could control while getting some miles under my belt. It's so much easier to build up your confidence then to try and regain it ! I agree with Barb - I'm not a Yamaha rep either but they made a great bike in the V-Star line. Pnlp (aka Paula) Please tell Christy that she has made an excellent choice. I bought my '99 650 V-Star Classic last summer and after making a number of modifications such as lowering it, adding floor boards, etc. (I am 5' tall), I think I have found the PERFECT bike! The weight difference between it and the little Honda or the Suzuki Savage I had previously owned was a little intimidating at first, but once I got on the road....I was amazed at the comfort and handling of this bike. I loved my other bikes, but I feel like I have moved up to a luxury model! My husband even commented that I seemed to handle the V-Star a lot better than either of the other bikes as well. Perhaps it is the wider tires? I know you will enjoy your new bike. Bootygrandma (Betty) Tuesday, April 9 Dear VTwin Mama, Tuesday, April 9 Dear VTwin Mama, I took the motorcycle safety class and it made me lose my jitters about riding again after such a long break, it is well worth the money in my opinion. Anyway, I am very happy with my Sportster although I know that in the years to come I will be thinking of 'upgrading', something that will be more comfortable on longer trips perhaps (of course after I am able to save some money!). I have the fever again and it feels so good!! Thanks for the advice. Karen G. Dear Karen, Friday, April 26 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Excited One, Yup, my second bike was a Honda Shadow 750 but at 5'10" I found that for longer rides, the leg room just wasn't there for me, even though I had highway pegs mounted on a set of crash bars. I find that for leg room, the best is to plan for the bike to have two leg positions, one regular for in-town riding and the other to stretch out a bit more for long rides. That way you can switch between the two and have less leg cramps. Of course a comfortable seat with some sort of way to support your back on longer hauls is good, and a windshield to cut down the sheer wind force, along with handlebars that don't force your arms to stretch out to a maximum are also important considerations. And always make sure that when the bike is at a stop, your feet are firmly planted on the ground for good control. You're doing just fine Excited One and I wish you the best of luck in your new adventure. Can I come over and play with your new bike when you get one?!?!?! Mama Tuesday, April 30 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Angela (SWBMM), It's not just you and those turns -- I remember lending my Honda Shadow 750 to an experienced rider who couldn't pass the state test on his Ducati -- it just goes to show you, not everything is black and white, so you go girl, and don't stop until your dream is realized. Mama Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Excited One, Two of the most popular models for touring are Goldwings and Aspencades. But don't forget, you can "tour" on just about any bike if it's the right bike for you. That means it's comfortable for you to handle and offers good seating, leg room with variable positions, etc., it can work. I've "toured" on a Kawi 750, Honda Shadow 750 and my current HD Superglide. What I found important in touring is to set realistic mileage for each day's riding -- otherwise, no matter what bike you have, if you're trying to do to much in one day, it isn't going to be any fun! Mama Friday, May 10 Dear VTwin Mama, There are heavy touring bikes, like the Goldwings, Sports touring bikes, like the Bandit, Cruisers, like the Vulcans, Intruders, and V-stars, and sport bikes and you can "tour" on all of them. Find a bike that fits you and your riding style and enjoy. But touring is not, "long and fast." Slow down and enjoy the road and what it says to you. Cheryl Dear Cheryl, To this day I prefer rambling the back roads at 35mph, drinking in the scenery and marveling at the wonders of nature. Sure, sometimes you go fast from Point A to B for a reason, but I'm still in favor of the slow easy ride. Cheryl, your answer said it clearly and thanks for taking the time to share your insights. Mama Wednesday, May 15 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Bert, Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Wannabe, Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Cindy, And yes, this site promotes well-being among all women riders, no matter what style of bike, make or model. We're non-denominational! So jump right in with your questions, responses or observations. It's the fuel that powers this site. Mama Tuesday, May 28 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Linda, Tuesday, May 28 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Tina, Tuesday, June 4 Dear VTwin Mama, Once I get on the pavement, I have a blast! Have taken several long rides, and feel really comfortable. Have ridden on the interstate, in traffic, even in hail! The reason I'm writing now, besides thanking you for giving me the resources to select a good bike for me to start on, is that I am looking for women to ride with in my area. I found a couple of groups through you, and they seem really nice, but they are so far away! It will take me 2 hours to get to any of their meetings, each way! Can you put out the word for me that I would like to meet individual female riders to ride with that live closer to me? I live in Elizabeth, Colorado, which is close to Parker, or even Aurora. Perhaps someone else has experienced the same thing, that the meetings are too far for them, and would like to go together? I just want someone to ride with that won't take so long to get to. Thank you so much for the wonderful advice. I am now riding with confidence! And, I love my bike! Sadie McNasty (ada Stacie) Dear Sadie/Stacie, Women riders who live nearby Sadie/Stacie(!) can contact her via email at staciecarlson@yahoo.com. Also, did you hop onto the ShinnySideUp chat room? They have lots of women chatting from all over, so posting a message there might help you find riders in your specific area. You can find the link at the bottom of the home page or on the Links page. Kudos to you! I'm grinning from ear to ear for you! Mama Thursday, June 27 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear bnb434, Also, Kelly Blue Book offers an online motorcycle value guide at http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/kw.kc.tp?kbb&&16&zmc. Or you could try The Motorcycle Blue Book at http://www.hapjones.com/MCBlueBook/. One other place to check out prices is to go to eBay, click on motorcycles in the left hand column, then choose HD, and then start scrolling (or use the search feature below). VTwin Mama sisters -- what other methods are there for
pricing out a used bike?
Mama Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Robyn, First of all, most women report that they felt more comfortable starting out with a smaller bike to gain the practical riding knowledge that is so important -- it's all about confidence! There is no point in getting too big a bike the first time around if it's going to scare the dickens out of you. Second, these same women report that within the year, having gained that confidence level under their belts, they quickly were looking to upgrade in terms of size and power. So one suggestion is to check the used bike market in your area and buy something smaller to start with -- not as big a money investment to start with. Then consider a new bike purchase with more oomph -- you'll have a better feel for what you are looking at in terms of your comfort -- seat height, leg room, turning radius, etc. At this site, from the input we've received, the top bikes to consider are the Yamaha VStar 650, the Suzuki 800, and the HD Fatboy. But that's just what's been written here. Let's see if the VTwin Mama sisters have anything to add specific about the Kawasaki Vulcan 500 you're considering and other tips and hints. Mama Friday, July 5 Dear VTwin Mama, I am a rather small person at 5'5 and 102 lbs, so for me this bike is a perfect fit. Some had tried to get me to go for the Vulcan 800 Classic over the 500 LTD, but personally I thought the 500 was a better fit. I honestly do not see myself upgrading anymore in the future. So for a first bike or only bike I think this is a wise choice. For the price I think it is worth every penny. There is only one drawback to this model. Kawi has yet to make many accessories for this model, but working on that to see what will interchange with it. Good Luck on whatever you choose and Ride Safe and Happy :) Darla Dear Darla, Monday, July 8 Dear VTwin Mama, You forgot another big favorite... the Shadow VLX 600. Myself and three other VTwin Mamas I know LOVE this bike... and a few beginner VTwin Papas as well. ;) CJ (note from Mama: you're sooooo right! Thanks for reminding me. Hmmmm, VTwin Papas -- I love it!) Tuesday, July 9 More input for Robyn who is wondering if she'll be happy with the Kawi Vulcan 500 as her first bike: I am 5'1'' tall and weight about 110 pounds. I got my first bike about a year ago - a Suzuki Savage 650. For me, this has been the best bike imaginable to learn on. It's narrow and the seat height is low - my feet are on the ground with room to bend the knees. I love the way the weight of the bike is distributed - it feels very light and is very easy to ride. I can comfortably push it or back it up with ease. When I was getting ready to buy a bike, I started going to motorcycle shows and motorcycle shops and would sit on every bike I saw. I just kept trying them out until I found one that felt right for me. Are my feet comfortably on the ground? (Don't forget that some bikes can be lowered.) Is the bike too wide (or too narrow) for my frame? Can I move it a bit from side to side without worrying about it falling right over? I found these questions very helpful when I was trying to make my decision. I think that some people don't like to start out with a smaller bike because they feel that they will outgrow it and will only want something bigger or more powerful later on. And what is wrong with that? When (and if) you are ready for a bigger and/or a more powerful bike then you can always get a new one, right? The more comfortable you are on your bike the more you will want to ride. As your comfort level and experience grows, you can always purchase a new bike to grow with you. Good luck - Keep us posted on your progress! Tonya Poole I started out on a Kaw 454 - about the same as the 500 but older. It was a great starter bike but a year later I upgraded to the Vulcan 750, a year after that to the Honda Shadow 1100, and am currently riding a Suzuki 1500 Intruder. It will depend partly on what type of riding you plan to do, I wanted something nice and smooth for the highway. Each person has to decide what he or she is comfortable on. Don't start out so big that your scared of it. Good Luck! Kathy I started out with the Vulcan 500 and hated it! It was so top heavy that I always seemed to be falling, even when I wasn't the feel was so unbalanced that I only put about a hundred miles on it the first TWO YEARS I had it. I sold it this year and bought myself the Yamaha VStar Custom 650. Well I have had this bike since the end of May, and I already put 998.3 miles on it !! I love it, it is so well balanced, low to the ground, low seat height. I couldn't recommend it any more highly. It is the best bike I tested, and I am glad that I bought it. Sharon in New York I bought a Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic for my first bike. The
first time I rode it, I thought Holy Sh--! What have I done! I rode
as a passenger for a couple of weeks, then put 2300 miles on it last fall.
A few weeks ago I took the MSF
course and got to ride a 250 for 3 days and hated it; I could not get my
seat; never felt one with the bike. I honestly feel that if I had taken
the course before I chose my bike, I would not have bought a bike. Also,
if you get a bigger bike, make sure it has a sissy bar; makes it easier to lift
it when you have to "lower" it to the ground. Friday, July 12 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear DZ, If you're really unsure about plunking down your hard-earned money for a new bike, consider getting something used to practice on first. That will give you a better feel for seat height, leg room (a biggee for your height), handling, etc. In your MSF course, you'll most likely be riding a 250cc of some sort, so it's sort of hard to tell from that. Talk to your instructors. And don't mistake low maintenance for no maintenance -- every bike needs to have regular checks no matter what advanced "systems" it has. Either promise to get regular checkups with your local dealer or at least learn the fundamentals of what needs to be checked at what intervals. Trust me on this! It's no fun when the battery dies 100 miles out because a cell went dry -- and it happens. We've been doing some discussions on first bikes, so scroll through July's columns and read below for some more input. Mama Friday, July 12 More on first bike purchases, a discussion started by Robyn: Dear VTwin Mama, Dear VTwin Mama, Didn't know if I even had the nerve to ride, really, after the "accident", but read this site and read suggestions on first bikes. Went to as many dealerships as I could and sat on all bikes that were listed here as good first-time bikes. Narrowed down to Yamaha V-Star 650 or Honda VLX 600. Difference I found, after sitting on both, many, many times, was weight distribution and balance. Chose Honda VLX 600, even though I liked the look of the Yamaha V-Star better. Went and sat on many more VLXs, just to be sure. Looked through paper for a few weeks. Finally found one that was priced really well. Went and looked at it. Sat on it. Scared to ride someone else's bike, being such a beginner. So let friend ride. Big, huge guy! Came back after test ride, with huge smile on his face! He said if I didn't buy, he would! So I bought it. Brought it home, and next day, figured I better unleash some nerves and give the thing a try. Called a neighbor to follow me in car, just in case something happened. Wow! After I got off the 2 miles of gravel/dirt/sand that it takes to get out of my neighborhood, and got on the pavement, I was so very pleasantly shocked! What a ride! Sits really low, easy to balance, has some spunk, and so very easy to maneuver! Since then, I have taken this little bike on many rides, both locally by myself, and in some big, organized rides, up in the mountains. Have driven some pretty wild and hairy curves and switchbacks, rode in high altitude, rode back down interstate at about 85 MPH, and kept up with pack the whole time. There was only once time I can think of, that I felt I needed a little more power, but overall, this thing kicks pretty good for a beginner! Easy for a beginner to get in and out of tight parking situations, too. So light! Easy to turn, takes curves like a champ and makes me look like I ride better than my few months of experience! Even takes these stupid dirt roads out here with style and grace. Feel really safe on this bike. Just enough power, not heavy. You can make mistakes that would get you hurt on other bikes, and it is very forgiving! Even though there were other bikes that "looked" more stylish or flashy, I love my VLX. I am very attached to it, and so glad I listened to the advice given here. Will buy Harley some day, but in no hurry now. Already found my best friend! Stacie (note from Mama: thank you for your detailed account -- it will go a long way to helping new riders understand that the learning curve happens to everyone who dreams of riding and then pursues it!) Dear VTwin Mama, Not sure if you remember my situation or not but I am one of the ones who bought the big bike first (Harley Softail) and then decided to buy a little bike (Honda Rebel 250)... well to make a long story short I am now riding my Harley and LOVING IT! The best thing I ever did was to stop trying to ride the Harley, learn on the Honda (1700 miles later) and when I felt ready (and had a new Corbin Hollywood Solo seat to get me a little lower) I gave the Harley a try and it truly did help both my confidence and my ability to manage the larger bike better. Thanks so much for all the information you give all us girls on bikes. HDChik (note from Mama: thank you for sharing your thoughts on scaling back a bit on bike size to get those first practice miles under your belt -- there is NO shame or harm doing this and your testimonial to how it helped you is inspiring!) Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Robyn, Tuesday, July 23 Dear VTwin Mama, I am 41, and have always enjoyed riding behind my husband, who has been riding since he was 16. But only in recent years have I started to feel that I really wanted to learn to ride myself. Back in February, I wanted to take steps to make this happen, so first I got serious about getting in shape. I figured riding takes a certain amount of stamina and muscle strength, so I started eating healthier and working out. I've since lost 20 pounds of fat and have gained muscle, so that really helped my confidence. In May, for Mother's Day, my husband surprised me with my own bike - a 2002 Honda Shadow VLX. And from reading your past archives, it's so amazing that "Woe is Me" in July wrote just about the exact same thing. Our only difference is that I am 5'7", so the bike fits me excellently. It took A LOT of practice (and I was SO discouraged at first!!) but I am so psyched to report that I rode it to my work today for the first time - 23 miles each way, and the last 3 miles are a rutted dirt road. I am scheduled to take my State's MSF beginner course in two weeks - am really looking forward to that! And to hopefully gain my license then. I'm also looking forward to reading all the Archives at this site! Thanks again for providing a great forum for education and support. Sincerely, Holly in Vermont Dear Holly, Tuesday, July 30 Dear VTwin Mama, Just got a lead on a 1998 Honda Shadow VLX - the bike sounds like just what I am looking for, and is supposed to be in excellent condition (based on bike mechanic who is husband of a friend...) I am going to look at it tomorrow. If it looks as sweet as it sounds, am I crazy to buy a bike before I've learned how to ride, or is this perhaps just too good an opportunity to pass up? WannaBeBiker in VT Dear WannaBe, If anything, you should at least sit on the bike and check out a couple of points. With the bike balanced upright, do your feet rest firmly on the ground? If not, you'll need to lower the bike, change out the seat or do something else to ensure your feet are firmly planted. How stretched out are your arms to the brake and throttle controls? Too much and you'll have to change the handlebars. Now, check your leg positions -- does it feel cramped or perhaps even too far extended out? This will have to be rectified one way or the other. Make sure you address these issues -- and then go for it! Remember, if riding becomes a passion, it's likely that this will be the only bike you ever own! Mama |
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