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2003: January to JuneThursday, February 6 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Kelley, Dear VTwin Mama, I've been dreaming of owning a Harley for quite some time now and want nothing else. The only bike I've ridden before was a Honda 250cc (that's when I got my license). I'm thinking for my first bike -- a 2003 HD Sportster 883. I have read loads of reviews on the Internet about this model, some good, some bad. Since the Sportster is the entry-level Harley, they are the cheapest and lightest in weight amongst the other Harley models. They are easy to handle as well, especially in corners. The downside is that the clutch lever is stiff, seat is not comfy for long road trips (but both can be replaced), vibration over 70mph (not a big deal) and oil leaking problems, therefore high maintenance. So, in the end, do you think its worth it, or should I consider getting another Harley model? Thanks. Sumer Dear Sumer, First, there is no such thing as a perfect bike. Like anything mechanical, they are prone to their little quirks and problems. Routine maintenance is necessary for any bike, including oil checks, oil changes, replacing spark plugs, general greasing, tire pressure checks, nut/bolt tightening, brake pad replacement and adjustment, etc. I'm surprised to hear about the 883's oil leak problem -- I could have sworn they fixed that! Second, determine what type of riding you are planning on. If it's just around town and for day trips, then you aren't too concerned about traveling at high speeds for long stretches, so any reported vibration above 70mph for the Sportster is only a nuisance. If you plan on longer road trips, you might want to explore more powerful Harley models that are designed for this, but your pocketbook will have a bigger dent in it. Of great importance is how the bike fits you. How comfortable are your arms and legs in relation to the handlebar and foot controls? Do you have to stretch or reach? Are you crunched up, especially in the legs, that will limit your movement (forcing your legs into one position all day is very hard on the body)? Can you hold the bike up without being on tippy toes (a definite no-no). Sit on the bike at your local dealer and check these things out. Since you're still in the shopping-around mode, go to MotorcycleEvents.com and see if there is a bike show in your neighborhood so that you can see ALL makes and models at the same time and make some comparisons -- especially since not all Harley dealers have every model on their showroom floor. It's worth your time! Mama Thursday, February 13 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Steph, That said, I think your safest bet is to call your local Yamaha dealer and pose the question about using the 535 clutch on a 750 or visit this forum to ask your question -- although most of the Virago forums I found originate in Europe and aren't always written in English (of course). You note that you can't "reach" the clutch. Is this the distance from your hand to the clutch (read this article on the J&P Cycles site to learn more about choosing a new handlebar to correct this) -- or did you mean that your hand is too small to wrap around the clutch lever (then finding alternative solutions could be difficult as the aftermarket companies don't support the discontinued Virago line). Sorry I can't be of more help here. As you might want to explore other manufacturers and models of bikes that fit you, I'd take a visit to the Short Biker site and click on the "sbl faq" link at the bottom of the page for an excellent list of bikes for shorter people and a chart of people by their height and the bike they chose). Or, visit MotorcycleEvents.com to check for a bike show somewhere in your area so you can see all makes and models in one place and do a little bit of comparison shopping. In regard to finding a bike, there are currently 417 posting under Yamaha Virago on eBay, so use the search link below and type in Yamaha Virago. Lots of parts, but there are some bikes for sale (easy to spot because the price is much higher than the parts!). Some VTwin Mama sisters have noted that this was one way to find a particular bike you're specifically interested in. Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Friday, February 14 For Sumer who is considering a HD 883 but has her doubts: Last Summer I decided I was going to get my motorcycle license. I was lucky and got into a MSF Course in the Fall. The bike I had my heart set on was a Harley and my husband knew nothing else would please me. We were able to find a good deal on a 1996 Sportster Custom. It is beautiful, but I have only been able to ride it once and that was only for about 4 miles. I live in Wisconsin and it gets cold and nasty here quickly. I am looking forward to Spring so I can get rid of my first ride jitters!!! I don't know how tall or strong you are, but even at being the lightest bike Harley makes, it is still almost 500 pounds and heavier than the Yamaha V-Star or Honda Shadow. As far as doing well on long road trips, I haven't gotten that far, but I do see a lot of people on Sportsters at different events in the state and even Sturgis. I think any road trip is possible, a few more stops may have to be put into the plans, but I believe it can be achieved. Another thing I find with Harley seats or any seat is that it will take a little while to break in, since my bike is a 1996 and was ridden by a man first, my seat is very comfortable and soft. The clutch can be changed as well, or they make a easy clutch kit that can be installed, but like the seat, the clutch will loosen with use. There are definitely all sorts of bikes, but you need to get the one you really want and you feel comfortable on. My theory is that motorcycle manufacturers are similar to car manufacturers you have to take the good with the bad. There is a chance you can get a lemon or the bike of your dreams. Good Luck in your search, the 2003 100th Anniversary edition of the Harley's are lookin good!!!! Sue Phillips (note from Mama: thanks for writing in and giving your insights -- I agree!) Monday, February 17 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Cherilyn, Monday, February 17 For Sumer who is considering a HD 883 but has her doubts: I had the same dilemma when I wanted to trade in my Honda Shadow 750 for a HD of some sort. But luckily my hubbie bought a HD Sportster 1200 and so I was able to test drive it first. Let me tell ya, I was a little intimidated. It was quite top-heavy and the clutch was almost impossible. I just couldn't trust myself on it at all. So I decided on a 2003 HD Sportster 883 Hugger 4 months ago. A little lower so I don't feel like I'm tipping over all the time, the clutch is not nearly as bad, and not a drop of oil (knock on wood). I am thrilled with my choice of bike. It may only be a beginner's bike, but after riding it I don't think I would really want anything more. But you might want to take a weekend and rent a few bikes from a Harley dealer so you can try-before-you-buy. Good luck and see ya on the road! Brenda from GA (note from Mama: sparking wisdom here -- thanks for sharing!) Dear VTwin Mama, I also have a request for your readers: are there any VTwin Mamas out there riding Moto Guzzis? Especially bikes in the California series? I'm on a Honda Rebel 250 right now and about ready to move up, and I've fallen in love with the Moto Guzzi line. I would like to buy a California Stone. There's a surprising dearth of information on the web (only a few really useful sites) for this manufacturer, and I would love to talk to someone else who has first-hand experience! Please make my e-mail address available to other riders. Thanks again for a great site! Marina (marina@deepthought.armory.com) Dear Marina, Wednesday, March 5 Dear VTwin Mama, All the smaller riders out there: don't forget to look for older used bikes! My little Kawi is just a great bike for riding around town or on short trips. It doesn't have the "OMG" power of newer sport bikes but still is quick enough to fill your helmet with smiles. It's low enough that most riders can "flat-foot" at almost any stop. At less than 400lbs. it's not too heavy and can be a confidence-builder to a newbie or re-entry (that would be me) rider. And, take the MSF course. They are great! Thanks for a great newsletter! Till the snow in Northeast IN melts, the bike will be in hibernation and I'll be waiting for riding weather. Keep the shiny side up! Beck Dear Beck, Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Ki, Oh, did you want to hear why I think that?!?!?! Mainly because I started out on a Kawi 750 myself. It just "fit." I sat on it "well" with my feet flat on the ground and leg and hand controls within easy reach. Also, the price was right! Then I slowly learned how to ride it and maintain it, taking baby steps along the way (like practicing in empty smooth-paved parking lots on Sunday mornings and wearing protective riding gear like a helmet, jacket. long pants, and boots that covered my ankles). I also took a motorcycle safety course a few months later (which is a very good suggestion, as a first step or somewhere along the line). The VStar 650 is a highly recommended motorcycle at this site, so if you're in the mood to get going, then do so -- just be as smart as you can about it! There's tons of information on this site to help you along the way (women's riding organizations, books, magazines, safety courses, links to events/shows/beginner bike sites and the such) which you find by going to the Subject Information table. Good luck -- and keep in touch! Mama Monday, March 24 For Ki who fell in love with a V-Star 650, but is it too big for a first bike: Go Ki! Too Big? Not at all. Who says a beginner needs a small bike? If you took the MRC class, you probably learned on a small bike. There. You've done it. My first (and still current bike) is an 800. My sister bought a V-Star in October after taking the class in August -- it sat in the garage all winter and was a little scared of it when she first took it out, but is fine with it now. Don't you want to know that you will be on a bike that can keep up with the traffic, keep up with your fellow riders and can be seen just a little bit better? You want the confidence that a bike that fits you will give you. Get the bike that feels the best, looks the best and that you can afford. Be proud of your machine - because when you are proud of the bike you're on, your posture will be better, your smile will be wider and the whole experience will be better! Michele (note from Mama: such positive reinforcement -- thank you!) I agree with Mama -- a 650 is a good size and it will have adequate power and you won't have to slip the clutch as much while you learn to ride. Then you can learn to take care of it and when you feel comfortable, move to a bigger bike, if you want. I had a Yamaha 650 Virago and it was great except for pulling hills, it didn't do very well. But now the bikes are better. I'm very small at 5'2" and an inseam of 29" so it was the best size for me at the time. I had it for a few years before selling it and put hundreds of miles on it. Good luck. M&M (note from Mama: there's nothing like firsthand experience to speak the volumes!) I just happen to be the proud owner of a 1999 Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic. I previously owned a Honda Twinstar 200 and then a Suzuki Savage (650). I truly loved my previous bikes, but when I first took my V-Star on the road, I was amazed at how it wonderfully it rode. It was kind of like going from a Ford Pinto to a Lincoln Continental! Remember....a bike will only go as fast as you let it! Being 5' tall, mine had to be lowered so I could ride it. Since you are taller and it appeared to fit you, I think you would really do well with it. Best wishes for your new adventure (in motorcycling that is)! Betty (note from Mama: as always, I appreciate your insights.) Thursday, March 27 More for Ki who fell in love with a V-Star 650, but is it too big for a first bike: I started out on the V-Star 650, a WONDERFUL starter bike, all the goodies of a "real" bike and will last years. Graduated to an 1100 which is now for sale, and now ride a Heritage Classic (HD) -- an awesome ride. I have only been riding 3 years...the 650 is an awesome choice for a beginner. Michelle (note from Mama: anyone interested in Michelle's 2000 V-Star 1100 Classic can contact her at starrider01@cox.net for tons more details.) My first bike, after the MSF class, was an old Honda 500. I hated it. Thought that this bike-riding thing was NOT going to be for me. Then I fell in love with the looks of a Yamaha 650 Classic. Didnt know anything about it, just thought it looked cool. My husband and I took it for a test ride. VOILA! I really COULD ride!!! The class DID do some good! Ki, its a marvelous bike. A 650 is like a puppy it just wants to be your friend! Go for it! Barb (note from Mama: and it doesn't poop. Ok, sometimes it farts when it needs a tune-up!) Friday, April 25 Dear VTwin Mama, I'm only about 5'2" and I found the stock Stone too high. But, there was a guy there who had had his lowered by I think 2 inches, and I sat on his and it felt great! Manageable weight (I'm guessing around 500 lbs) and low center of gravity. I rode pillion on the demo ride w/my husband on a Guzzi Aluminum and was shocked afterwards when he told me we had been going about 70 mph - I couldn't even tell! (Being used to a '69 Harley chopper it was a huge difference.) So by now maybe Guzzi has brought demo rides to where Marina is...good luck! P.S. She might like to read The Perfect Vehicle by Melissa Holbrook Pierson, a great book which has a lot about the Guzzi Lario. Laura Dear Laura, Monday, May 5 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear CC, Top Tuesday, May 6 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Yoda, I'm not sure what is worse though. A: having a bike that you're not in love with even when you can't afford to get something else, or B: simply not having a bike at all. While "B" may work for a little bit, the riding bug is a fearful strong tug on the ol' heartstrings that "A" starts looking really good! So I always opt for "A." (I've been at B and will never, ever do that again!). So readers, take heed -- if you've started cursing your bike under your breath -- it's time to start sorting out your options! Somebody out there just starting out could really use it to begin practicing on! Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Friday, May 9 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear
Kiara, Top Monday, May 19 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Lizzy, Top Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Ki, Oh, did you want to hear why I think that?!?!?! Mainly because I started out on a Kawi 750 myself. It just "fit." I sat on it "well" with my feet flat on the ground and leg and hand controls within easy reach. Also, the price was right! Then I slowly learned how to ride it and maintain it, taking baby steps along the way (like practicing in empty smooth-paved parking lots on Sunday mornings and wearing protective riding gear like a helmet, jacket. long pants, and boots that covered my ankles). I also took a motorcycle safety course a few months later (which is a very good suggestion, as a first step or somewhere along the line). The VStar 650 is a highly recommended motorcycle at this site, so if you're in the mood to get going, then do so -- just be as smart as you can about it! There's tons of information on this site to help you along the way (women's riding organizations, books, magazines, safety courses, links to events/shows/beginner bike sites and the such) which you find by going to the Subject Information table. Good luck -- and keep in touch! Mama Thursday, May 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear DLB, First, have you taken a motorcycle riding course? Check out the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, a non-profit organization that teaches the basics on a 250cc bike, with courses available all over the U.S. Then, visit every dealer that you can in your area and start looking at bikes. Keep a notepad handy to jot down thoughts. Yes, you are allowed to just sit on the bikes to get a beginning feel for them. Check the stretch of your arms to the handlebar controls (too much? too cramped?) and your leg position (same thing). With your height, you should have no problem placing your feet flat on the ground when you sit on the bike -- a real biggee for overall control of the bike when starting, stopping, etc. Look for a bike in the mid-range of power, probably around 600-750cc, but don't limit your investigation -- check out the smaller and larger cc bikes at the same time. If you've made good notes, then you can check local ads for bikes of the type you liked. This can be a cheaper way to get started until you have some miles under your belt and can make a more informed decision. I apologize that I can't name a specific make/model for you -- but there are just too many individual variables that characterize you and what's going to feel right. This is true of any new rider, so don't feel alone! Last, but definitely not least, get in contact with a women's riding organization in your area. Links at the bottom of the page will get you in touch with the top "clubs." These women can provide the support that is so useful to beginning riders. Good luck and hope to see you on the road soon! Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Dear VTwin Mama, Dear NN,
The bottom picture is a rigid frame. The rear tire bolts directly to the actual framework of the motorcycle (far left side in the picture) -- and there is no rear suspension (ie: no shocks to cushion anything, anytime). If you've ever seen a bike where the seat looks like it's resting directly on the rear fender, that's most likely a rigid frame. The top picture is a softail frame. The difference is the swing arm (where the rear tire bolts to) which pivots in the frame and has two shocks to absorb bumps in the road. Now, which do you think your butt will enjoy more?! Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Friday, June 13 Dear VTwin Mama, I was able to test ride some bikes up there and I tested a HD Dyna Lowrider and I loved it! Now what?! I'm riding a HD Sportster Custom 1200, or as they say at Americade, I ride a Milwaukee vibrator. The reason I ride the Sportster is that my husband could not sell it without taking a loss. We sold my 1999 Honda Shadow 600 for $1800, I bought it a year ago for $3,500 and rode it for 2,000 miles. It seems with the stock market being so bad and the economy slow, it's hard to sell and I am a lousy seller. I feel it's my second season riding and I should stick with the Sportster for another year or two and then think about moving up because we spent money on a windshield and bags. I just hate the negativity and the vibration. Angela, Lady Harley Dear Angela, Isn't it a bitch to find the "perfect" bike for yourself and then not be in position to buy it immediately?! But then you wouldn't know it was "perfect" until you had some time and experience on other bikes to know the difference! So, take comfort in that. Not everyone is a natural salesperson. CycleTrader has some tips that might help. Meanwhile, make peace with your current beastie. I once came off a 7 hour run and it took more than an hour to get the feeling back in my right foot from the vibration of my '76 HD Superglide. I would have been upset, but I was on a 1000-mile journey to Sturgis and nothing was going to make me miserable! We laughed a lot as I was stomping around the motel parking lot -- me and all the other riders who have been there, done that! Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Dear VTwin Mama and all the wonderful women who have
posted such warm support (the saga continues), As it was, we didn't know if my hubby (who had never been on a bike before in his life) would enjoy riding or not, so I bought an '87 HD XLH883 that I tripped over and fell in love with. However, it took me a few days after I bought the bike to find a helmet that fit properly (if you're between HJC sizes, btw, try the Arai Quantum/f. I'm in love with the thing, and I hate wearing helmets). In the meantime, hubby put several hundred miles on the Sporty, and he adores it. So much for "my" bike! Ultimately, the Sportster, while a fun ride, is more top-heavy than I like, so a second bike just joined the family - a '99 VStar 650 Classic. I pick her up this weekend. Funny how things go in circles - my husband does *not* like the VStar. If I'd bought the bike I'd originally planned on -the VStar - he might never have gotten bit by the bug the way he did. So instead of "my" new hobby, we now have "our" new hobby, and I'm thrilled. I wouldn't have done it without all your support. Best, Kiara Dear Kiara, Top Wednesday, June 18 For Pam who is considering a 250cc bike but is concerned about highway riding: Ffor Pam considering the 250's, I beg to differ about highway speeds. I have an `88 Yamaha Virago Route 66 and it feels fine at highway speed (60-65 mph). The "whining" as you put it may not have that commanding low rumble, but it gets me there. (Remember, us beginners don't have the hindsight of the experts.) My main problem is that for smaller bikes there are very limited touring-type accessories available. I couldn't find saddlebags at all and am currently looking for a backrest bag that'll fit. It's my learner bike and I'm just getting to the point where I'm curious as to how I might deal with a heavier one. Maybe someday I'll get one of those sharp-lookin' new Guzzis. Laura (note from Mama: I've read that other 250cc bike riders are quite satisfied with their riding abilities on the highway. There's an excellent Honda Rebel site that talks about this at http://www.surfmaine.com/rebel/. I even saw the pictures where a sidecar was added!) Share Your ThoughtsTop Wednesday, June 18 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Laura, You might try posing your question at the Official Virago Owners Club Forum and see what input you get there, because my surfing on the Internet yielded nothing useful. Mama Share Your ThoughtsTop Thursday, June 19 For No Name who was asking about the difference between a rigid and softail frame: Top |
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