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2006 Friday, January 6 Hey Mama, I still ride in the winter whenever the roads are clear (Chicago), both the trike and my little Honda. I realized, having been hit by a bad bout of the flu, that I can gauge when I'm truly back up to par when I get back riding again! Still not there yet . . . Healthy Happy New Year! – SM Trykster Dear
SM Trykster, I had to laugh at your description of how you know when you're over an illness . . . you want to ride immediately! Precious! – Mama Friday, January 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, I know the newspaper jumped on the CA governor accident too. I guess people are really getting blind if they can't see a motorcycle with a sidecar com'in down the road!!! It used to be the left turn in front of us, now we have to worry about being backed into as we ride down the road. This is a good endorsement for car driver's ed. We use to have it. What do they do with our tax money! – Cecilia Dear
Cecilia, I know you're venting about car drivers seeing riders on the road, with or without sidecar . . . loud colors, loud pipes, loud horns and loud screaming also may not do the trick . . . as you know, there is always going to be a percentage of people who simply look right past us as they hurry from Point A to Point B, despite anything we do to get their attention. – Mama Monday, January 16 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Linda, I'm totally excited for you and know that your journey so far has been one of learning, and learning is a good thing. Keep that in mind with every challenge you face and you'll be the rider you want to be. I'm glad to hear that you have a wonderful boyfriend by your side to help you along the way . . . positive support on YOUR TERMS is an important component to becoming a confident rider. We'd love to see a picture of both of you with the bikes sometime . . . there's nothing like a "Yahoo, I passed" message with a picture! – Mama Tuesday, January 17 Exclusive Interview with Elena Filatova Dear
VTwin Mama, Elena is a genuinely nice person and it shows when you read what she has to say: http://www.bikernet.com/news/PageViewer.asp?PageID=675. – Kevin Dear
Kevin, Wednesday, January 18 Dear
VTwin Mama, We invite you to join us and compete in some of or all the races! We have support, mechanics, coaches, mentors to help on the track. This could be one of the most AMAZING experiences of your life!!! You and/or your association are welcome whether you have race experience or not, however you must complete a race school at an accredited school to obtain your race licence. Schools are also being held April 21st in Ontario and May 13th in Quebec. We would also be help co-ordinate transportation and travel, and/or camping arrangements. Please contact us for more details, visit our website at www.womenscup.ca or chat with us on www.cherrypickerracing.com. Hope to see you there! – Nadine Lajoie Dear
Nadine, Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Ben, My search for motorcycle prayers in general led me nowhere, so readers, if you have time-honored prayers used by riders, please share them or point to a website! – Mama Friday, January 20 Wow Mama, Dear
Kathy, Tuesday, January 24 Hey
Folks! Dear
Rick, Dear
VTwin
Mama, Since then I put over 7,000 miles on my first bike in 10 months. I now have a Honda Magna and don't even know how many I have put on it! Will have to go and check tomorrow. I am now 54 and love riding. I would go out just about everyday if I could. So glad to see the site going strong and still helping ladies in their riding adventures. Amazing how many women are out there now riding solo and doing it well. I just love it when young women in cars or along the road see me riding and yell and give me a thumbs up. I sometimes wonder what effect all the lady riders have on the men riders with the macho attitudes of born to be wild. Here we go by them looking good and handling the bike beautifully. Some do think we have invaded their world. After all, little ole ladies of 54 who can blow by them on a Magna ( it is faster than most Harley's) has to put a chink in their "coolness" level. LOL. I did meet a gentleman who specializes in chroming bikes and he said nothing is sexier than seeing a woman riding. So to all my sexy bikers ladies out there...be safe and have the best times ever on the road. Thank you Mama for your support and help when I started out! – Susan Elliott Dear
Susan, Over time I have come to understand that while we demand to take our rightful place next to men in this sport, there is also room to celebrate our collective sisterhood as a separate entity. So, let's keep plugging away on both fronts and know that it will take us far! – Mama Monday, January 30 New Women's Riding Site Online! Dear VTwin Mama, Information is updated on a regular basis and includes the latest industry news and information, motorcycle road tests, product reviews, touring articles, information useful to passengers, profiles of female leaders and historical figures, info on how to get into racing, and motorcycle lifestyle articles all riders can enjoy. In addition, readers are invited to submit stories and photos about their motorcycling experiences to share with others. The site also includes the most comprehensive Beginner’s Guide for women out there, and so much more! My mission is to educate and inform the motorcycle industry and the general public on the growth and impact of the female riding population. In doing so, my goal is to raise awareness of motorcycling and attract new riders to the sport. Please log on to www.womenridersnow.com today and please share with your friends! – Genevieve Schmitt, founder/editor Dear
Genevieve, Tuesday, January 31 For Susan who pondered women's impact on the overall riding community: I loved your comments! Aren't the "thumbs up" great? When I'm riding, I feel like I'm much younger again. Many guys out there do not like women who ride their own. I guess it's jealousy, and we ARE invading their sport. But fact is, we can ride just as big a bike, safer, and with more common sense. We can go just as fast, if we want to, but I think we get a completely different enjoyment out of it. I like Petra's "collective sisterhood" comments, because more and more, that is what it has become. No longer are bikers thought of as trashy and dangerous, and women have contributed a lot to that, and we have great women's groups to ride with, and Petra's site, and even the motorcycle manufacturers are now recognizing us, building lower women-friendly bikes. I can't say enough about the great people I have met in my short time riding, and nobody knows the feeling of riding down that road, unless you've been there! It's something you can do alone, or with others, that is fun and exciting, no matter how old you are. Petra and her site are life savers to many of us! Hugs, and ride safe. – Penney from Iowa (note from Mama: women have impacted the sport right from the beginning, and I've just realized that the Motorcycle Hall of Fame will be making a special presentation of their Women & Motorcycling Exhibit at the upcoming AMA Women & Motorcycle Conference. Yahoo! A chance to gain a broader perspective on the women who paved the way and to celebrate what we're achieving now!) Tuesday, February 7 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Cath, Monday, February 13 Dear
VTwin Mama, Has anyone had to deal with husband prejudice - meaning he is pro-Harley and anti-Honda? My husband has shoved and whined to get me to buy a 883 Sportster which just did not fit me. Any ideas how I can get him to be less snobbish? He acts like his Harley is going to catch something. – Sue Dear
Sue, Would he ride a bike that didn't fit him or meet his needs? NO. Would he be happy if someone important in his life kept whining about that choice? NO. Would he let other people's opinion supercede his own well thought out decision? NO. Does he want his riding partner to be "one" with her beastie? YES. Does he consider your overall riding safety important? YES. Does he understand that you a thinking human being who has not only learned to ride, but is now able to share the joy of the journey, and determine for herself the best pathway for herself. HE BETTER FIGURE THAT ONE OUT FAST! The next time it comes up, I'd go for a "hey honey, whatever, when's our next ride?!" – Mama Tuesday, February 14 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Linda, So, my own pillion riding was so long ago (1974 - 1978) and then I went solo in 1979 and haven't looked back. I really wasn't "into" riding during my pillion days, so it was just a thing to do because my boyfriend had a bike. Of course I've had a nose-full of attitude being a solo rider (geez), but readers, let's concentrate responses on solo riders who do pillion time on occasion and have thoughts on the change-over experience! – Mama Wednesday, February 15 Hi
VTwin Mama, Dear
Suzie, Wednesday, February 15 Hi Petra (yup, that's VTwin Mama's given name!), Some humorous observations here on folks who ride Scooters (Vespa type thingy's): Traffic congestion in Sydney is now at the stage where many people who never thought of taking two wheels to work are doing so. We've always had a few people riding scooters around the city but in the last few months I have started to see so many more. Lots of different brands now, there's even a scooter magazine out on the stands. Shalako Lin and I saw a girl on a modern Vespa yesterday, riding in the middle lane, traffic buzzing past all around her. Dressed in a white open face with a shield, a pink blouse, black silk slacks and high heeled stilettos. Looked sexy, but odd. A month or so ago I saw a guy and gal two up on a scooter, t-shirts and shorts . . . and barefoot, as in no shoes at all. In summer here the tarmac is too hot to stand on barefooted, I assumed they were just so much tougher than me . . . hell made me embarrassed to ride around in my Caterpillar boots. We have been discussing this phenomenon and I think I've hit on the truth. I see so many blokes and sheilas riding scooters in skimpy clothing that I finally realized that when you buy one you must get a Force Field or a magical cloak (invisible of course) of protection. Has to be the answer doesn't it? I don't think I've ever seen a scooter rider dressed in leather or a full synthetic riding suit. On really hot days, if I'm just riding around the local suburb, I've been guilty of wearing shorts and t-shirt myself, always have summer gloves and a helmet however. But I see these scooter riders riding many miles to work dressed in their thin work clothes or surf wear. I've seen girls in mini skirts and low cut tank tops. Even the ads in magazines show them dressed like this, must be de rigueur for scooter folks I guess? Now, do these scooters come with a free Force Field or do you have to pay extra? Are there different kinds of shields available? Like a low speed impact Field and a high speed impact one? Do they come in different colors apart from invisible? I'll have to look into this as I'm sure we can all benefit here. Hell, we can forget about leathers and helmets altogether. We can just go to our local motorcycle/scooter shop and say, " Hi, I'd like the new Startrektech Mark 3 Force Field please, the one for bikes over 1000cc, better make it the high speed impact one, with guaranteed all around cover up to 200 mph. You have one in stock, great, I'll take it, thanks!" Yes sir, scooter riders have certainly shown me the future of bike protection. A mate said to me the other day, " I saw a guy on a Hayabusa blasting between the traffic at high speed yesterday, he was only wearing a singlet and shorts and open sandals, can you believe?" "Nah," I replied. "He was perfectly safe, mate. He must have a scooter in his garage and he just transferred the invisible Force Field from the scoot to the ' Busa." I mean it's obvious right? – Kevin in Australia Dear
Kevin, Monday, February 27 Dear
VTwin Mama, Dear
Kit Kat, The VTwin Mama site was created to give women motorcycle riders a "safe" place to ask any m/c-related question they wish and receive thoughtful input. Men are not excluded from this exchange but you will find in surfing through the subsections of the site that 99% is from and by women. Although we do work through technical bike questions, the VTwin Mama site is a broader forum in that it helps people get started on their adventure in riding, address challenges as they crop up in the beginning stages of riding, and find solutions to stuff that happens down the road. Anyone can send an email and receive support. – Mama Monday, April 3 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Myers, The VTwin Mama site was started for women because in my experience women have fewer "communities" in which to safely ask their questions without feeling that someone is going to snicker under their breath. To some degree this is changing, as more chapters of women's riding organizations are opening, more women are on the road on their own bikes, and new Internet sites launch to provide information. Just as not all women need this level of help, not all men have been riding since they were young or are instantly tech-savvy and find themselves searching for answers. All are welcome to the VTwin Mama site, although the focus will continue to be on the women riders. – Mama Dear VTwin Mama, She rode to work a couple times and then Monday happened . . . She came out of work to find her mirror flopping around on her handlebar. Upon further inspection it became apparent that some a-hole sat on her bike and dropped it. Riding is such a personal triumph for her, and she loved that bike, and was SO proud to be alive and riding on her own. My question is this . . . is this common for you women that ride? Do a-holes just decide to sit on your bike? I was appalled! I GUARANTEE you no one is sitting on MY bike, they would be afraid of getting their ass handed to them. But, with a woman, I guess they feel it's ok?? How often does this happen? Is there other stuff she will likely have to deal with? I feel kinda bad, I didn't know this happened at all, so I didn't warn her. She is SEVERELY pissed, and dejected, and frankly violated. Her email is Briana.Lawson@gmail.com if anyone wants to share their stories or encouragement with her. Thanks, – Robert Trowe Dear Robert and Briana, That in this instance it resulted in damage, and the perpetrator didn't have the guts to fess up, is truly maddening. Briana . . . is there an HR or Security department or head honcho at your company that you can go to and address this violation? Perhaps an email can be sent company-wide reviewing policy on personal property on company premises. Then I would print up a card and have it laminated and thread a little strap through that can be attached to the handlebar that states, "This is NOT your bike. Please see Briana with a $1000 deposit before you even THINK about touching my pride and joy." Or something like that. As a woman, there are many other weird things that will happen over the course of the riding adventure. One is when someone asks for a ride. The proper response (unless you want to do it) is, "If you want a ride, go to an amusement park!" You may also get dagger looks for not riding a Harley, be tut-tutted for riding at all (it's just so dangerous dearie, so many people die), have your riding skills called into question, and upon offering technical or gear source solutions, be completely ignored. Yup, it's nutsy being part of the 10% underdog section of the riding community. The good news is that for every one of these types of encounters, there are lots of opportunities to share the joy of riding. The starting point might be a visit to my Women's Sites page to check for women's riding organizations and researching the availability of local chapters! That would be a great sisterhood support system that clearly let's you know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE! – Mama Thursday, April 20 For Briana (and Robert) whose bike was damaged when someone sat on it uninvited: Is there a security camera in that parking lot anywhere? Maybe whoever decided to help themselves and then dropped her bike got caught on tape! I would be livid if someone sat on my bike without permission, especially if they damaged it. – Li in Florida (note from Mama: good point!) It's been awhile since I've had time to read your site (or get on the computer at all for that matter), but this one posting got to me. I feel my bike is a very personal part of me and do NOT like others to sit on it. I don't sit on their bike, or in the driver's seat of their car, so stay off my bike, please! If I am leaving my bike parked for awhile, I bring my cover and throw it over the bike. I feel that this keeps people from messing with the bike, along with protecting it from the weather. In south Louisiana, the sun can be brutal and damaging to the bike's finish, leather and rubber. Most covers come with a small carry case that you can bungee to your bike very easily. Yes, it takes a few minutes to cover/uncover the bike, but most people won't bother what they can't see easily. Ride aware, – Tracy Hanks (note from Mama: simple, yet I can see where this would be highly effective, especially for a bike parked during work hours.) I got my first bike just a few months ago and immediately started accessorizing and upgrading. I started thinking about how easy it would be for someone to take any of those accessories off my bike or even just mess with my bike. So one of the accessories I got was a Scorpio alarm.
Here are the features of the alarm: The all-new SR-i500 is the first
two-way FM security system designed specifically for the motorcycle
industry. By utilizing High Frequency RF technology, it is capable of
sending and receiving data from up to ½ mile away from the motorcycle.
The miniature handheld transceiver incorporates an interactive LCD display
that instantly confirms all commands and alarm triggers. Security features
include: It is a pretty neat gadget and well worth the peace of mind that it put me back. The factory connect kits make this a breeze to install. I need to work on getting the perimeter sensor not so sensitive and get that hooked back up. Otherwise it is awfully cool to get off my bike and see and hear the alarm set. I got mine from Cruisercustomizing.com. They had (and still do have) one of the best going rates. – Amy, aka Shakti Aerorider (note from Mama: boink on the head to me! Of course . . . an alarm . . . do they come with integrated pepper spray?!) Hey VTwin Mama, Everybody says I'm crazy to put my life in danger and possibly leave my two little angels because of an accident. Wow. That makes me feel terrible. But, aren't there worse things than dying? How about teaching my little girls to live in fear? I'll do my best to be safe. I'm taking the MSF course in 3 weeks. I am looking at a Suzuki M50. Some say it's too much for me. I am 5'3" about 145 lbs. I am a massage therapist so I feel I'm a little stronger than most my size. What do you think? I am planning to purchase it and have it waiting for me. Am I just going through a midlife crisis? What do you say to the nay-sayers and all of their negative energy? So glad that there are other women out there encouraging one another. You are the best! – Breaking the Chains Dear Breaking the Chains, At 819cc, the Boulevard M50 is considered a mid-range cruiser. At 544 lbs, it's a typical weight, although there are mid-range bikes that are lighter. The seat height at 27.6" is not bad, but have you sat on it off the side kickstand (centered) to see if you are flat-footed (feet firmly in contact with the ground)? Being able to flat foot at a stop is a huge confidence builder for new riders. If this is not the case, then you need to negotiate a lowering kit, lower profile seat, or other modification with the dealer. As to handling the power, all I can say is see how you feel when you finish the course. Many women prefer to then spend some time on a smaller power bike for awhile to get their practice time in. If you decide to proceed with the bigger bike, then make sure you practice in a safe zone and re-do all the exercises just like the course so that you can begin learning the handling characteristics of that new bike without the distractions of traffic and such. With motorcycle riding comes risk. Of course there is risk in crossing a street, driving a car, and just about every single thing we do in life. I think the naysayers come out of the woodwork in part because they see the choice of riding as a selfish act and in the added layer of being a mother, more easily forget that that person is a separate person in her own right. This negative energy is best handled by keeping your replies simple. Remember they are simply taking their fear and assigning it to you (unfair, but there it is!). A sample of this might be, "Thank you for your concerns. You are entitled to your opinion. I am entitled to lead my life as I see fit and am taking steps to pursue a dream in the safest manner possible." If they persist, then it's "You're entitled to your opinion." Delivered with a smile and a no-nonsense set of your shoulders will get the message through. I think you would do well to contact local chapters of women's riding organizations so that you form a positive support group for yourself. There's nothing like sharing both the good and bad, easy and hard, with people who understand. These can be found on my Women's Sites page. I wish you the best as you work towards your goal of being
a woman rider. The journey is well-worth it. –
Mama Wednesday, April 26 For Breaking the Chains who wants to ride and has the naysayers circling her camp: It very well may be a mid life crisis, but Time magazine said that we (women) are buying bikes at a record level. I have two kids, (three if you count my 28 year old), but two are still at home. I started because I needed SOMETHING to take the edge off my life, and it has! In a hard and wonderful way! My husband is not exactly thrilled about the idea of a riding wife (and no, he does not ride, is not interested in bikes and most likely never will), but he does support me by watching the kids when I want to blow off some steam or just get away. We as mothers, daughters, and spouses have spent a large part of our lives asking for permission. This is the one area where we control our lives. We control the speed, the joy and the trip. For that period of time, you can’t worry about what you are going to fix for dinner, you can’t worry about if little Sally is doing well in school, you can’t worry about if your husband is happy. All you can focus on is your surroundings, the conditions of the road and the ride itself. Doing anything else will kill you. I have said that riding is more like a drug; it is something you do - not because you want to save money on gas, or because it is cool. You do it because you have to. I have told my children, that yes, what
I do is dangerous and that I can die (now depending upon how old your
children are – that may not be a conversation you can have.) But I
have also asked them if they notice a difference in me since I started
riding. It was a resounding YES! And if something unfortunate
happens to me, my children will know that maybe not at that exact moment,
but I went out doing something I loved. I have told my teenager to let
my ashes go in the wind – then when she feels the wind, she will always
know I’m there. I have learned that life, like my bike,
is all about the ride. I can now focus on the joy of the journey and
less about the destination. My entire world has changed because of it. Hope this helps. BTW – I’m 47
and have been riding for a little over a year. Thursday, April 27 More for Breaking the Chains who wants to ride and has the naysayers circling her camp: I, too, had everyone in my life telling me I was crazy when I mentioned to them my desire to ride a motorcycle. So much so, that I didn't even tell my mother (who lives 800 miles away) until after I had taken the MSF riding course. The bug bit me when my husband, my son and I, would watch American Choppers religiously. Throw in a couple of Discovery Channel documentaries on Harley Davidson and there was no turning back. I hemmed and hawwed about taking the class for about six months prior to my actual enrollment because of my husband's apprehension. Go figure, he is the one who got us watching American Choppers to begin with. Ironically, he didn't want me taking the class because "motorcycles are so dangerous" (this from a man who has bungee jumped for entertainment!) Needless to say, I finally got tired of feeling like I needed everyone's "permission" to do what I wanted in life. I was 34 at the time and just decided I was tired of living my life within everyone else's parameters. I too have a child. My son had just turned 5 when I took the class. I took the class in November of 2004, and bought a bike in June 2005. It's the best thing I've ever done for MYSELF!! I still get people who feel compelled to tell me how dangerous motorcycle riding is. I guess that is something that you constantly deal with, mostly from people who tend to live their lives "inside the box." As for my husband, I actually convinced him to take the class. He too, now has his motorcycle license although he has no desire to ride. That's O.K. though, because he is always willing to keep our son so that I can get out and ride. I ride a 2004 Suzuki Marauder (VZ800) which was replaced by the Boulevard M50 for 2005. I have found this size bike to be a good fit for me. I am 5'6" and am pretty much a novice. As with anything, the more you do it, the better you get, no matter what you ride. What may seem intimidating at the beginning becomes second nature after a while. Kudos to you on your decision to ride! Taking the
course is the smartest way to start! Everyone rides for different
reasons. For me, riding is my therapy! Believe me
when I tell you that my whole family benefits from that! By
the way, I'm 36 and have been riding for about a year. Keep the rubber side
down! Thursday, April 27 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Anon, Dear VTwin Mama, This year he asked me to find a leather motorcycle jacket for her, and he would give it to her for her birthday, so I found one, gave it to him, and thought she would probably burn it! Low and behold, the day he gave it to her, he put his pegs back on, and they came to my house with her on the back! She had a grin on her face, and that was two weeks ago, we have been on three rides since! Now she has hinted to me that she would like to learn to ride her own (I wish I hadn't sold my Rebel!). So I guess my brother will buy a small bike for her to learn, and we may have another sister in our big wonderful group. I have thought that maybe she didn't feel included before she got the jacket. The jacket may have been a huge inspiration for her. What do you think? Ride safe, hugs, – Penney from Iowa Dear Penney, For now it's simply right to share the joy, encourage
her, and see what happens. Then, later down the line, in a quiet moment
when you're sharing a riding memory (of any kind), ask her how she feels
"now" as compared to when your brother bought that bike in the
first place. I'll bet she'll surprise you with a mix of thoughts and
triggers that embody her own personal outlook on the experience over time.
That would be a good time for a huge hug! –
Mama Tuesday, May 2 For Penney whose sister-in-law remained aloof about riding until recently: I liked your response to Penney about mysterious motivations. One of my co-workers has started riding to work and I'm happy for her . . . but she never said boo to me about it. I've been riding to work for over three years now. People are deep, and so are family and workplace politics. Good luck to you, Penney! – Sarah (note from Mama: if she is a newer rider she may feel shy about approaching someone she knows is a "veteran" rider . . . why not compliment her on her bike and see if new friendship opens up! Of course, that may not be the case at all . . . ) Tuesday, May 2 Dear VTwin Mama, It was three years ago I was riding to work and a group of three bikers pulled up behind me at an intersection. "We're going to Myrtle Beach," they said, "Want to come?" I said, "Sure!" and continued on to work while they watched to see if I would take the same fork they did a half mile later. The warm comeraderie of most bikers is one of the joys of riding. Thanks for keeping us all in touch. Best wishes for a great spring to all sisters.– Sarah Dear Sarah, Tuesday, May 2 Hi Petra and all the ladies out there, This drop just helped me to make up my mind about putting crash bars on my bike. Well, I ordered them and finally got them. Saturday I PUT THEM ON. I also put on a visor over the head light. Ladies, I must say there is just something about doing stuff to your bike yourself. It just takes good directions, a little patience, and courage, but afterwards it sure does make you feel proud. Especially when you have people around you telling you stuff like "you ought not be riding, or women should not ride their own bike, etc." This has helped me to bond with my bike. My hubby is very proud of me also, which is very nice specially after the rocky times we had when I first started ridding and bought this one bike. Boy did he give me a hard time, but now he is wonderful about things. So hang in there ladies, hang on to your dream, and have the courage to do little things to your bike, it really will make you feel good. – M. Wright Dear M. Wright, Wednesday, May 3 Hi Mama, So far I have over 6,000 miles on my bike. Hubby has 10,000 on his (but he has been riding to and from work since we got them). I have long legs and before the Del Rio trip we had some highway pegs placed on the crash bars on my bike. It sure helps my legs from getting cramped up and tired. Take into account the comfortable Mustang seats that we added and that 1,000 mile trip to Del Rio wasn't so tiring. We are thinking of trading them in for bigger bikes, although I sure have enjoyed my Shadow Aero. Just wanted to share our adventures with you. Thanks so much for all your support. I read your site daily and it so informative and I have learned so much just reading what others post. – Nikki from Dallas Dear Nikki, Monday, May 8 Hello Mama, Yet, I made myself another pact. If I could pay it off in one year . . . I would buy myself some personal leathers, made just for me. I did just that, 2 months ago. Man . . . those custom leathers feel great !!!! There ARE rewards out there, ladies. Keep on doing what you are doing and set some personal goals for yourself for doing so. Tell your husbands and all your friends this: It's not easy, but it is exhilarating, exasperating, but where else can you get this kind of rush, legally, for free? – Scotka Dear Scotka, Tuesday, May 9 Dear VTwin Mama, I don’t normally give that sort of guy the time of day; they aren’t worth the trouble. I have the pleasure of knowing several great guys that are completely supportive and always ready to lend a hand or information. It is a shame that there are some that don’t want us to be able to do what they can do just as easily as they do it – or is it that we just aren’t supposed to have any fun? I TAKE what I want – and laugh at the nay-sayers! If the pack you ride with is a bunch of yappy curs, find a new pack to ride with! Or go solo . . . I’ve been doing that quite a bit as well . . . I’ve found I kinda like it! As long as I have my cell phone . . . keep the rubber side down, everybody! – Amy in Washington Dear Amy, I love how you quickly and calmly made it clear that you
are in charge of your ride. I say, point out their oil (or brain) leak,
and get on with your own agenda! –
Mama Tuesday, May 16 An Excellent Tip About Our Keys Maria from Puerto Rico shared a note about handing over keys when your motorcycle (or other vehicle) is being serviced by a shop. Make sure that you hand over only that specific key, as you don't want to inadvertently offer up house/apartment keys that can be copied (most shops have the capability) that would allow an unscrupulous person access to your abode (they would also have your address as part of the service records) for all the wrong reasons. Sunday, May 21 Dear Mama, I am new to biking, having just recently (16 days) purchased a Yamaha Morphous 250 scooter . . . I am in love. I ride when I can, so between my job and the weather here in southern Vermont, I have already clocked in 282 miles. That is saying a lot, since the weather here has sucked big time . . . so rain, wind, or cold, my boyfriend and I head out. He just purchased a Honda Silver Wing 600. I am short, 5'1" (which is why the Morphous is so spectacular . . . I sit comfortably on it, with my feet flat on the ground). I am a bit on the heavy side, so finding petite, "fuller figured gear" has been one issue I am dealing with. Now, the windshield on my bike is, like, non-existent . . . so I get hit squarely in the chest from the wind, and it swoops up under my helmet. I have looked into getting a longer, touring windshield, but my scooter is too new, and no idea when, if ever, Yamaha will make one, or any other dealer. My boyfriend says maybe I wouldn't want one, as the windshield would make it difficult for me to control, especially when big trucks go by. Any advice on this? I wear a neck gator to keep the wind from going under my full face helmet . . . plus, has it been exaggerated by the fact that I have only driven in inclement weather? I can't wait to find out what it will be like to drive in nice weather!! My next question, why has it been my experience that none of the Harley Davidson riders around here give you the friendly wave? All other bikers do . . . what is up with that? There also seems to be some prejudice against our scooters. They go as fast as motorcycles, they require the same licensing, but we get the "they aren't real motorcycles" crap. I like them. I feel safer, I don't have to shift, I have a parking brake and lots of built in storage, I can cruise on the highway at 75 mph, I don't have to worry about my legs or clothing hitting hot pipes, and I can put my legs in all kinds of positions for comfort when riding. It was worth every penny. Okay, how do you feel about the jackets and such with the Kevlar implants, as opposed to leather? Thanks for listening. Now I understand the need to be out on my bike no matter the weather. – Debora Dear Debora, Yes, fuller figure women do have a challenge in finding appropriate riding gear. However, there are women-specific motorcycle gear companies that you'll find listed on my Women's Gear page. Even there though, you may find you'll need to order custom fit items, but at least some of them offer these services! Many riders prefer a "sporty" look that incorporates Kevlar and impact-point inserts for added protection. There is also some leather-based gear that does the same now. Choose what gives you confidence on the road! Adding or changing to a larger windshield does alter the handling characteristics of a bike. This is then a change that is all about the pros and cons (pro - reduces the air hitting your chest, con - more surface for air to catch and push around on high wind days or those trucks passing by). As with all changes, if it's more pro, then do it (if possible) and then get back to practice sessions to make sure you are relearning the handling characteristics of the bike in a safe practice zone. If air easily enters your helmet, the helmet is not fitting right. There have been recent postings on the subject which can be found on my Riding Gear: Helmets page, which include links to articles on the proper fitment. As to biker waves . . . they are optional. Some riders do it all the time, some only to like-style bikes, some only on lonely roads, and some never. Although standard bikes are often referred to as "scoots," scooter-style bikes are still often seen as "wanna be" bikes. However, just as metric and Harley riders have been morphing into a "you're a rider, cool!" understanding, including scooter riders will take some time as well. YOU like the bike, YOU are happy to be on it, so
DON'T shoot yourself in the foot by assuming that someone not waving is
because of the bike you're on. It could be that, or not! However, if a snide
remark is made to you or behind your back, be ready by taking the high road
with a well-placed comment. Maybe something like, "I LOVE being on the
road with the wind in my face and THIS BIKE is a GREAT way for me to
do that." Then turn and continue enjoying your adventure! –
Mama Tuesday, May 23 Dear VTwin Mama, I am glad I saw a lot more women on their own bikes this year. I saw many size and type of bikes but really got a kick out of seeing what my sisters in riding were on. Everything from a Ridley to the biggest HAWG out there. I do enjoy my quiet time on the bike as it gives me opportunity to de-stress. There was no opportunity for a quite ride the entire time I was there. It makes me glad I have quiet back roads to motor down. To everyone out there -- keep riding and keep safe. – Susan Dear Susan, It WAS a blast seeing so many women and I loved catching
their facial expressions as I rode among the throngs . . . some totally
serious, some with big grins! I too am glad to have my more quiet roads
back . . . riding among so many motorcycles, with the added "tourists
in cars" thing makes for an experience that requires a rider's total
concentration. I bow my head in silent prayer for the six riders who came
to Myrtle Beach and aren't going home. My thoughts are with their families
and friends. –
Mama Dear VTwin Mama, I have logged 2,500 miles already this spring w/o any long trips yet and I live in Minnesota and 3,000 miles before I put it away last fall. I had to go back and put miles on a Rebel, then a Savage, to be able to get back on the Volusia, and have never regretted it a second. You gave me the encouragement to continue when I was ready to give up. I just would like your input on this little question: I saw the email from Dorathy Biddinger, recommending the book "A Little Twist of Texas" and thought, "what a nice gift that would be for my younger sister who just passed her MSF class (I gave it to her for Xmas & she said it was the best gift ever) and for my older aged friend who will take and I am certain pass her MSF class this weekend. But, here is the dilemma, I see U have other recommended readings also. Would one of those be better choices for a brand new young rider and for an older new rider? Someone who has read these would maybe have a recommendation on which would be appropriate matches. Thank you dearly for the input. Keep up the fantastic website. – Mama Beast Dear Mama Beast, Honestly, in regard to choosing a book or other information source, I think it's more about what each rider is planning to do, rather than their age. One may have trepidation on handling their new bike, so an instructional DVD or book would be appropriate to augment the original learning course. Another may express complete interest in how their bike works and learning to handle routine maintenance and other tasks, so a book on how a bike works or the service manual would be a good choice. Or, they may already be talking about the day they are ready to take a longer trip, and then there are books about that and first-hand ride stories are wonderful in that they chronicle the realities faced by riders. Alternatively, magazine subscriptions are fun and can be found in women-specific, general, and touring formats. Although I have had reviews of certain books, magazine, and DVDs, they were not gathered in one spot over the course of the last five years. It is in my mind to provide review/interview pages later this year that offers more information about what one can expect, but it's a big task. I personally have read several of the books and have more on the way to me. Meanwhile, why not simply tell your sister and friend that
you would like to give them the gift of a book or something else and ask
what they would most prefer. Or, if you feel you know what might most excite
them, simply order and surprise them! –
Mama For Ben who was looking for motorcycle prayers: I am in Ontario, Canada and have been following your site for about a year. My husband rides and I will too, but not yet. I am so looking forward to learning and getting my own bike. Health issues come first. There are a couple of motorcycle prayers I found. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Lord, I pray as I ride today, * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Lord, thank you for the open air, The Feel
of wind blowing through my hair; To wind through country unexplored, Not
knowing what I'll see next, Lord. If I should ride till morning's light,
Please keep me safe throughout the night, Christian's Motorcycle Association * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * O, dear Father I ask for you to watch over me as I ride from point a to b. Help all other motorists to see me clearly and help me to stay out of their way. Bring me back to my family in one-piece dear God, these things I pray. Amen Gold Wing RoadRider's Association * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Lord, let others be as alert and patient as my Dad is while he is riding today and please watch over him because I love him very much and need him more than you do right now. Faith, age 6 (my daughter says for her Dad when he goes out on his bike) * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * I will keep reading and enjoying and will let you know when I am out there riding myself.– KarrieAnne Lissets (note from Mama: just beautiful . . . thank you sooo much for sharing these!) Tuesday, June 6 Dear VTwin Mama, Anyway, glad to see this site is still here. – Michele Dear Michele, Monday, June 19 Dear VTwin Mama, I can relate to some of your readers' postings about the "looks" and comments from male riders. Back in the 70's, where I lived, I was the only female rider, but the way I ended up buying the bike is because of my ex-husband, who had a reverse-throttle Sportster, and he knew how much I loved to ride on the back and that I always wanted one. (I first was on a bike when I was 12.) It was through his "find" that I still have my "baby Harley" as I refer to her. The bike lasted a lot longer than my marriage. LOL In reading your posts, there is one dated May 23, 2006, where you note that six riders who came to Myrtle Beach Bike Week didn't go home. I just wanted to let you know that I wanted to read up on what had happened and did a search and found out that there was a 7th: Jerry Johnson. My prayers are with all of them too! On another note, keep up with the wonderful website! It is such a positive reading and to be able to read and share with fellow sisters of the road is something I did not have years ago. – Mad Dear Mad, Tuesday, June 27 Dear VTwin Mama, I am in the Army serving at Ft Bliss in El Paso and one of my additional duties is serving as the Battalion Motorcycle Officer. When I search for riding techniques or tips, I find myself on your site looking for valuable insight. The Army has really stepped up its efforts to promote safe riding instead of trying to discourage all riders from enjoying their bikes. In many of your articles, you stress practice and a safety course. I try to do the same with observing good, safe riding practices. Keep providing the valuable info. P.S. I gave the website address to the wife instead of keeping it all to myself. – CPT John Wright Dear John, Congrats to your wife on her Hugger . . . it's always a thrill to hear that a couple is enjoying the sport together. As you well know, drops in the beginning are a rite of passage, but your wife's stop drops could simply be that she's looking down at the ground (we tend to go where we look, right?!). Greetings to the soldiers at Ft Bliss as well . . .
while you are protecting our great country, I'll keep working on helping
motorcycle riders overcome the many challenges they face. I love this
saying from Buddha: "Happiness comes when your work and words are of
benefit to yourself and others." Let's keep sharing and caring! –
Mama Thursday, July 20 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Peter, Friday, August 4 Hey Mama,
And lastly . . . 10.
Being on a bike is better than hormones when it comes to getting hot
flashes! Dear MommyDBA, Saturday, August 12 Dear VTM and fabulous women riders, Well, we did finally get his Harley this
past April. I was delighted to jump back on as a passenger . . . and I
remembered how much I enjoyed riding. What I didn't expect, is that my old
dream of riding side-by-side into the sunset, would resurface with such a
vengeance! I took the MSF course in May (passed),
purchased a '99 We haven’t had a real vacation in 10 years (remember the aforementioned promise?) and our 20+ year marriage had gotten, well let’s say – stale. Our mutual interest in motorcycling has breathed new life into our relationship, and I see a more positive future for us. So girls – know that you ARE fabulous and you CAN ride! Envision yourself doing it, and it will happen. Don't give up! Warmly, – Amanda Grayson in Ft. Lauderdale Dear Amanda, Hey Petra, Dear Liz, While seatbelt laws were adopted by many states voluntarily, many other states had their hand forced by tying the adoption to highway funding rather than on just the straight merit of the law. If the government wanted to force the mandatory helmet law nationwide, they would simply tie the passage of the law to something states can't live without. I disagree with your view on motorcycle awareness and the wearing of helmets. Following that logic then suggests that only states with helmet laws should be granted the right to spend taxpayer $$ on awareness. Cage drivers pull out in front of all sorts of vehicles because they don't see that vehicle (for different reasons) . . . that riders are more likely not to seen is not because they wear a helmet or don't . . . Should a rider wearing no shirt, shorts and flip-flops, but wearing a helmet, be taken more seriously than the same rider with no helmet? Of course this boils down to personal viewpoint. And that is what you have shared . . . a personal view. I think anyone working in a profession where they are more likely to see the aftermath of a downed rider is going to form strong opinions on the wearing of helmets. I can appreciate this. Pro-choice riders also have strong opinions, which are well known. IMHO, the greatest responsibility of a rider is to be
informed, understand, and seriously consider risk factors in any aspect of
riding choices they make. –
Mama Wednesday, August 16 In response to Liz about viewpoints on helmet laws and personal responsibility: I am a RN with over 20 years of experience working in an Emergency Department. I've seen severe head injuries from car and motorcycle accidents and I still believe it is a personal choice to wear a helmet or seatbelt. Too many of our rights are being taken away. If you feel safer with a helmet, then wear it, but don't try to force others with your beliefs. I prefer to wear a helmet, I don't want the bugs hitting my face, but if you don't want to wear one, that's YOUR CHOICE. Thank you for allowing me to respond to this issue. – Anonymous (note from Mama: the cornerstone of the VTwin Mama site is to engage in useful discourse . . . it helps us learn and examine important issues . . . thanks for sharing your viewpoint.) I have always worn a helmet, though I do switch to a half helmet in the hottest weather. I have no problem with riders choosing not to wear helmets and other protective gear. However, if these riders are in an accident and require "repairs," I also don't believe the rest of us should have to pay for their choices if they cannot afford to pay for their own medical treatment which may be more extensive due to the lack of protective gear. – Penny Price (note from Mama: according to the 2004 Census Bureau, 15.7% of Americans don't have any healthcare coverage . . . a sad commentary. Do riders without coverage factor this into their gear choices? I'm sure it's a mixed bag answer . . . ) Wednesday, August 16 Dear VTwin Mama, I still consider myself a fairly new rider. Took the MSF in 2004 at the age of 57 and passed the first time around. My grown children still think I'm crazy and my grand children think I'm a cool grandma. I am on my second bike, a 2005 Suzuki Boulevard and love it. I rode behind my husband for 20+ years and just wanted my own. I want to encourage any woman who is the least bit interested to give it a try. I love the freedom of having my own bike. I still work full time as an RN in an Emergency Department and have seen many many severe injuries from motorcycle and car accidents and didn't let it discourage me. Things happen in life but you still have to enjoy yours. So no matter what your age, if you think you want to try, just do it. I'll be 60 in just a few months, and as I tell my family (who think I'm crazy for riding), I'm not dead yet. I'm having fun and enjoying myself. – Carol Dear Carol, Thursday, August 17 Hi Petra, But last Sunday it was beautiful, so I put on a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, hopped on my Triumph and took off with the wind in my face . . . had intentions of only going 50 miles or so. Ended up on a 150 mile ride along the Mississippi River. Once I stopped for 4 deer (watch them!) and once for a farmer walking 6 goats along the road with a stick. I stopped and talked with him and his goats. Also stopped to look at the river. I was amazed to see six women riders on their own bikes! Last summer it seemed like I was the only one. It is amazing how many of us love to ride. Anyway, I don't have anything important to say, just wanted the new riders to know they will not ever regret learning to ride. Sunday was the best day I have had all summer! Ride Safe, Hugs, – Penney from Iowa Dear Penney, Friday, August 18 Dear VTwin Mama, A little story line on my loving wife is the fact that she never rode as a passenger or as a solo in her life before April of this year. One day she wakes up and tells me we need to stop at a motorcycle shop on the way home from our son's High School Baseball game. I think she wants to look at a leather jacket or just trying to do something for me. I use to ride in my youth and after my military service time. She knew I loved to ride at one time in my life. Also my son thinks she has flipped her lid. Did I mention I am in my late 50's and she in her mid 40's. Sandy (Sam, as I call her ) has always been outgoing and dedicated to helping others. She and my son are both Diabetics. She works in a office all day for a major insecticide company, working with numbers. She always helps with drives and fund raisers for Diabetics in our area. Also supporting our son with his Baseball and me with just being a pain in her bottom. Anyway, we bought our first bike about two weeks after that first stop, a Boulevard C50T, and we rode double for a while, then we took the motorcycle riding classes at a local College and we both passed a hard two day course. After that she started talking about driving the Boulevard but the weight was a bit heavy for her. She finds your web site and reads everything and talks to many people and decides on what she wants. Myself thinking all the time that this will not happen. She finds the VLX on a whim stop at a Honda dealer and falls in love (am I to be jealous of this, I ask myself) . . . the rest is history. We just came off of our first long ride of 100 miles and looking forward to more. We ride three or four times a week now, If we could only get our son interested, lol. Well, again, thank you for your support to my wife and all the ladies out there. I find myself reading your website all the time now also. God bless. – Mo and Sam (aka Beginning Biker Babe) Dear Mo and Sam, Wednesday, August 23 Hey Petra, “You see things (vacationing) on a motorcycle in a way
that is completely different from any other. In a car you’re always in a
compartment, and because you’re used to it you don’t realize that
through that car window everything you see is just more TV. You’re a
passive observer and it is all moving by you boringly in a frame. On a cycle the frame is gone. You’re completely in
contact with it all. You’re in the
scene, not just watching it anymore, and the sense of presence is
overwhelming . . . and the whole thing, the whole experience is never
removed from immediate consciousness.” Dear Susan, Wednesday, August 23 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Chutarunga, You must have your reasons for hanging onto the motorcycle rather than just selling it outright. You would need a rental agreement . . . this one I found at the FormsGuru site which could be modified for your purposes. Since I doubt you want to process credit cards (it's costly), and checks takes time to clear (so be careful accepting them), you might want to stick to cash, maybe with a security deposit by cash or check. If you want full control over the whereabouts of the motorcycle, I'd have a LoJack installed . . . they're doing that for bikes now! Then I'd check with your insurance company . . . they may not honor your insurance in a rental situation and require business insurance. I'd also be checking into an accident/injury waiver, but to do it right you would need a lawyer, and even then, the lessee could sue (and be quite crafty about it). You can't protect the motorcycle from being destroyed no matter who you rent to. That's the nature of the business. Stuff happens! Also, the IRS is going to frown if they catch wind that you're running a business without a state and/or city license, so make sure to check into that. It's usually a nominal fee, but now you've got record keeping to do, business tax filing, etc. If you think you can do this under the table, I'd think twice. So, given all that, are you sure you really want to do this? If so, then you can get the word out to every riding organization . . . they've got new riders joining all the time who may be looking for what you are offering. I doubt the local dealers are going to allow you to post an info flyer, but you never know. The local course providers may have interest as many offer sources of information for students exiting the course. Personally I think you're opening yourself up to a lot of potential trouble. If you run that business as a sole proprietorship, that means the IRS doesn't distinguish your personal holdings (house, money, investments) from the business. So anyone could come after everything you have. You could form a LLC, but now you've got more work again. Think it through. Sorry, but I'd sell the bike as bikes
are meant to be ridden and your scheme, while truly noble, is a huge risk.
That's my humble opinion. –
Mama Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Susan, Of course each rider likes to talk about different aspects of their motorcycle and riding experience. If you are looking at someone's bike and they are there or approach you, one starts with an open-ended question like "great bike, love the [specific if applicable], how long have you been riding it?" You will find that the response will usually fall into one of four categories: curt reply, handling, set-up, or question back at 'ya. A curt reply can be followed by murmuring that it's beautiful and moving on or a "how does it handle" question if you are truly interested in that make/model. If the response is about the handling right off the bat, then experiences and comparisons can be shared. The set-up "gearhead" response if more difficult if you are not also a gearhead. It's quickly apparent and there is no need to fudge. They can tell. If they share some specific point they like, just added, or changed, you can indicate you don't know much about it but are interested in learning and thank them for sharing that tidbit. In one case I remarked on a BMW touring bike's centerstand (I was curious how easy it was to center the bike) and the owner launched into the push-button operation . . . so I praised the feature and asked about other features that he particularly liked. The question as a response will give you clues on what they like to talk about. Of course you'll have your opinions on handling, riding experiences, etc. At the very least you should know your bike's year/make/model (!), the engine cc, whether it's a chain/belt/shaft drive, air or liquid cooled, hydraulic or cable clutch/brakes, specific "extra" features (like ABS brakes, etc.) and whether a part is stock or if you added/modified it. If someone asks you a question or makes an observation about your bike that you don't have an answer to or a clue about, ask them why they are interested as it will reveal a point of view in which you will learn something or decide if you want to learn more about! In my opinion praise starts things off nicely and
sincerity in a question and honesty in a response is always the right way
to go. –
Mama Monday, October 23 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Richard, I do have the MSG site on my Motorcycle Sites for New Riders page, but this gives me a chance to remind folks that it can be accessed from my Get Going/Learn to Ride a Motorcycle link on the Home Page. I enjoyed watching the video that shows deep, quick leans around cones. I think it clearly shows that a motorcycle's wheels can "hold" the ground in deep leans, which can be a "trust" issue with riders. I think it also shows what "oneness" with a motorcycle can really mean! However, because it doesn't explain the actual techniques used, the video won't be archived as I've more visibly archived some others. Readers, if you come across a particularly interesting video, by all means, share it. I think it's pretty clear that dangerous wheelies and tricks have no place on this site. Accident footage can be gruesome but I will consider it if it supports/demonstrates an important point. What I've found in the past with these videos is that they rarely impart a clear view of what happened unless the cameraperson is behind the accident and happens to clearly capture the entire "scene." – Mama Tuesday, October 31 Petra, 59 RULES OF MOTORCYCLING by Unknown Thursday, November 16 Mama, One of the most hated effects of quitting smoking for me
is the withdrawal from nicotine. It leaves a dense fog in my head, and an
inability to concentrate for days. It's like being normal one day, then
uncontrolled ADHD the next. Oh God, I'm gonna mess up this traffic is terrible I can't
believe I just My palms actually hurt from my grip by the time I got home. I took the truck on Wednesday. ;-) – Jojo Dear Jojo, Actually, I'm thinking that what you shared runs through a lot of newer riders' minds, nicotine withdrawal or not, so thanks for writing it down! They are not alone! – Mama Thursday, November 30 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Cindy, December: Seattle, Long Beach, San
Mateo. The point you bring up about sitting on bikes at the show is very important . . . women (and men), especially the newer riders . . . this is not the time to be shy! Get to a show, sit on bikes, ask questions, and take notes. This is a wonderful chance to see lots of bikes under one roof and make the dream happen! Congrats on your own bike purchase, Cindy. We're jazzed to hear you're having a great time already! – Mama Tuesday, December 26 Hi
there Petra, Dear
Kevin, Thursday, December 28 FRIENDS: Never ask for food. FRIENDS: Will say "hello." FRIENDS: Call your parents Mr. and Mrs. FRIENDS: Have never seen you cry. FRIENDS: Will eat at your dinner table and leave. FRIENDS: Borrow your stuff for a few days then give it
back. FRIENDS: Know a few things about you. FRIENDS: Will leave you behind if that's what the crowd is
doing. FRIENDS: Would knock on your door. FRIENDS: Are for a while. FRIENDS: Will ignore this. – submitted by riding sister Bobbye (note from Mama: consider it forwarded!) |
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