|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wednesday, October 1 Pacific Coast Sunglasses Review and Contest! Dear Readers, Wednesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear CW, Wednesday, October 1 Fix My Hog calls for H-D owner input! Dear Readers, 1) If there was a maintenance item or install not covered
in a DVD you currently have, let them know about it. info@fixmyhog.com RE:
Maintenance or Install in the subject line. Wednesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Sophia, In doing a new search of the area, I noticed that the H-D dealer in Reno will be hosting an all-womens Garage Party on Thursday, October 9th from 6-8pm. This might be of interest to you to attend to meet area women riders and those considering the sport! You can also email Desert Curves, a Women In The Wind chapter out of Reno to learn what they are doing and get a feel for the general layout of chapter organization. Then take it from there! Once you start riding with area women you'll be in position to further explore your ideas on a Latina women-based club, drawing on people you'll meet along the way at regular rides, charity events, poker runs, rallies, the garage party, and motorcycle shows. – Mama Wednesday, October 1 Good Morning Mama, Dear Peter, Wednesday, October 1 Dear VTwin Mama, I also just got back from Street Vibrations Sunday night (in Reno, NV) and boy what a difference a year makes. Last year I wrote in on how I felt so intimated and at one point I thought a girl club called me a loser because I was going so slow up the mountain. This year my husband had to keep up with me. We rode to Virginia City and Carson City. I went every where I wanted to with the skills I needed. Last year when we got to Reno I parked my bike and didn't want to get back on it till it was time to go home. I guess what I am saying to others is if you feel afraid or scared but still have the desire, stick with it and you find your comfort zone and then start riding for fun not fear. I am 4'8" and riding a Sportster in Novato, CA. Thanks for getting me through the rough times and I'm sure there will be more. – Janine Dear Janine, And look at you now ... handling all the twisties the Sierra Nevada mountain range can toss at you along with some death defying stuff around Reno ... been there and it takes some skill. Congrats on a great year of learning, polishing skills, sticking with it, and following your dream ... and many more happy road miles to you and your husband! – Mama Wednesday, October 1 Hi VTwin Mama, I have been riding for two years and recently had a bad experience that I feel like has really set me back. I do a lot of group riding with a local organization. It makes it difficult for me to ride comfortably through the curves. Although they preach that you can have your whole lane I feel obligated to maintain my line in the group formation. And up until a few weeks ago I have been really enjoying my riding experience. However, on a recent ride I allowed myself to be pushed past what I felt comfortable with by riding with the group that was being led by someone going faster than the posted speed limit. This included going on a very curvy road, to the point that I almost lost it in a curve and I had to tell myself over and over in my head to LEAN. The thought went through my mind that I was going to wreck !! I managed to get through the curve without wrecking and continued with the ride. But it seems my confidence has been completely shaken. And I don't know how to get it back. I do know that I will never put myself in that position again with the group and I will be more selective about who is leading the ride if I do decide to ride with them. However, I am wondering what I can do to help me get back to where I was before. Is this normal and will I be able to shake that fear of a curve from my mind ??? I look at all the other riders in our group and how they just seem to glide along through the curves with such ease (both men and women) and it makes me wonder if I will ever get to that comfort level. I want to so bad but I don't know how! Can you offer any words of wisdom ? – Anonymous Dear Anon, Getting confidence back is probably done best on some solo rides down those same roads at speeds you know you can handle in order to get your groove back. Then I would like you to consider taking the MSF's Experienced RiderCourse. This is taken on your own bike and you'll read that it will help you "practice the techniques of managing traction, stopping quickly, cornering and swerving." Why not go to an accredited course and under the watchful eye of instructors, check that your skills over the two years, are as polished and perfected as possible. I'll bet you'll learn something! Almost every rider who has told me about this class came away with something to learn! While I admitted to myself that I wasn't really interested in taking the twisties at super high speeds, it was also clear to me that I didn't fully trust my bike at the time, a '76 H-D Superglide. There was just something about the deeper leans that wasn't sitting right with me. And no matter how much I practiced for faster curves, I couldn't get "it." All motorcycles follow the same principles of curve lean, but the center of gravity, often referred to as "the balance," is not the same from bike to bike. A motorcycle pivots through a curve around its center of gravity and the higher the center of gravity (the mass of the engine) is off the ground, the deeper the lean that is necessary for the curve lean/pivot. So the bike make/model does in fact have an affect. Once I sold my Harley and got my BMW, curves became a joy, although I had to unlearn bad habits of leaning fear at higher speeds. It took a lot of solo rides, but eventually I realized the BMW is worthy of my trust and part of that was that I really practiced. Still, I can tell the difference. That bike wants to lean and goes into it easily! Unfortunately, there are no stated specifications for center of gravity called out anywhere. My suggestion, should you be curious, is to visit the dealer of your model, sit on one on the showroom floor, take it off the kickstand, and gently lean it both ways. Feel the weight of the bike, concentrate on the feel of the engine weight leaning, and feel how/when your leg really has to hold that up. Now, sit on another bike on the showroom floor. Do it again. And keep doing this until you've developed a feel for what I'm talking about. If you do this imaging that the lean is the curve, I'm guessing you'll soon understand that there is a difference from bike to bike. You are looking to educate yourself on what differences there are and then making decisions from there. That could be the course or maybe looking for a motorcycle show coming to your area where you can sit on a lot of bikes and make some more educated comparisons! Shopping is free! – Mama Thursday, October 2 Kawasaki Mini Report Dear Readers, New Models: The four variations on the new Vulcan 1700 are big news, but there are some missing details, most notably, the MSRP and nothing on the touring Voyager model. Online analysis suggests that Kawi is looking to clear the Vulcan 1500 and 1600 stock on hand before coming out with the 1700 in later 2009, but when it does the 1500/1600 models will most likely be phased out. The other new model for 2009 is the addition of the ER-6N, a sport-style model in the mid-range engine size. And you'll see that the ZX-6R and ZX-14 have added the Monster Energy variation. Seat Heights: Not a single change! Weights: Don't be alarmed at seeing higher numbers across the board ... remember that weights with a * are dry weights ... for 2009, Kawasaki moved to reporting the wet (curb) weight, which is what you are actually riding! Engine CC: Not a single change! MSRP Prices: Jumps are evident, ranging from $150 to $700 Other Notes: Along with no changes in 2009 for the Vulcan 1500 and 1600s, it looks like the Z1000 and ZZR600 will be phased out. – Mama Thursday, October 2 More for Meryl who is asking that plus-size gals work together towards riding gear that really fits: I walked through Street Vibrations (Reno, NV) last weekend and was attempting to find a leather vest for my 2X size body and found nothing. I would have had to get a man's vest and I refuse to do that. I AM a WOMAN. I started wondering if it would benefit other plus size women such as myself if I designed and produced motorcycle wear for plus size women. I was thinking of beginning to research the demand. Just thought to share. – Sophia (note from Mama: geez, that's a pretty big rally and nothing for plus size ... how horrible. I'm certain the demand is there but certainly the business model has to be carefully considered. You know I'll champion anything you pull together!) Thursday, October 2 Dear VTwin Mama, I cannot tell you how liberated I feel! Whoo hoo! Of course I'm being very respectful of my bike and the road. I am very new at this and haven't even been on the freeway yet but it's coming. I do have a question for you; as it's still hot here in Texas, I initially bought an open face half helmet but have had to cut rides short due to very watery eyes. I've since ordered a shielded helmet - they did not stock my size - but I wondered if a windshield helps with the wind in the eyes issue? With winter coming I think the shielded helmet will be fine but am thinking it may be way too hot come next summer. I believe I've read that the windshield height should be below eye level - does that reflect wind from your face as well or just your body? Now, if you say you recommend a shielded helmet for all weather and all times, I'm perfectly ok with that too - after all, you are "the" VTwin Mama!! Thanks for all of the great information thus far! Best, – Rhonda Dear Rhonda, It's excellent to ponder the watering eye problem as it's ultimately a distraction. Start with my recent review of sunglasses and goggles from Pacific Coast Sunglasses ... compare what you're wearing now and see if a change in the eyewear won't solve the problem ... I found a pair that really makes a difference to me ... as I wear contacts and that gets touchy really fast! I too switch between a 1/2 and 3/4 helmet w/shield depending on the weather, flying bug population, type of ride, etc. Some will advocate that only a full face helmet is correct for maximum protection and if you're really looking to take all the wind out, then that's the ultimate solution. But yes, riders in the deep south know how hot that can get in the summer months. Windshields are very fickle on directing wind. The majority of riders agree that one shouldn't be looking through a windshield (major bug splat and road grit will lessen the clear view and require frequent stops for cleaning) ... rather, over it. It'll block the direct hit to the body, but depending on the design (a loose term) wind can swirl from around the side edges (if it's too narrow) and underneath the lower edge of the windshield and get in one's face. Then you would need to add deflectors to the bottom edge to solve that problem. I'd start with eyewear and work your way up from there! – Mama Thursday, October 2 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Charles, Then I found this informative yet disturbing message: "In 2001, Johnny Pag Creations designed and built 50cc, 97cc and 250cc motorcycles under the model name “PAGSTA.” The company had a very successful first year. In 2002, Johnny Pag Creations sold all distribution rights to these bikes and also the use of the Pagsta name. This new distribution company called themselves “Pagsta International, LLC ”. Pagsta International had full control of these “PAGSTA” motorcycles, while Johnny Pag Creations moved on to other ventures. Johnny Pag Creations, Johnny Pag and JohnnyPag.Com are not affiliated with Pagsta International, nor do they have any information as to their whereabouts or if Pagsta International continues to exist." So, I have no other ideas on getting an owner's manual. From a 2004 press release: Pagsta International, LLC, Corporate offices are located in Irvine, California. CONTACT: PJ Cannon, Pagsta International, LLC, 30 Fairbanks, #110, Irvine, CA 92618, 949-457-3200. – Mama Thursday, October 2 Dear VTwin Mama, Hi. I just passed my motorcycle safety course and I am so excited about looking for my first motorcycle. My husband rides a Harley Fatboy, and that is way too big for me. I am 5'3" and 120 pounds. I would appreciate some guidance in what might make a good one for me. We like to take long rides now with me as a passenger. Thank you for your assistance. – Cheryl I am a 48 year old former woman Marine who wants her own bike! Problem ... I am only 5' tall. What would you suggest? – Anonymous Dear Laura, Cheryl, and Anon, There are a lot of specifications that any bike model will call out, but I stick to the basics: Engine: described in cc, it tells you how much general power oomph to expect. If you haven't taken a riding course, consider getting my Learning To Ride A Motorcycle article ($3.95) and checking out courses offered that I list on that same page. They'll start you out on a 125cc or 250cc bike or a 492cc if it's a Harley-Davidson course. That gives you some clues how much you think you can handle on your own for the 1st year. If you know you would like to start on a smaller 250cc or move right into the mid-range, then my Motorcycle Engine CC chart can be used ... print it out and highlight bikes of interest! Style: some people are absolutely certain they want a cruiser or a sport style ... if you're not sure, keep an open mind, especially for the first bike that is rarely the "dream" bike ... dream bikes are typically the second or third because it takes a lot of road miles to really understand what's going to be the absolute cats meow! Note: sport style typically have a higher seat height than a cruiser and bikes can only be lowered so much without having a major impact on handling. Seat Height: shorter riders need to consider this carefully because new riders benefit greatly from having their feet fully flat footed on the ground at a stop. However, some modifications can be made to a motorcycle whose seat height might be a bit of a challenge ... look at the top of my Motorcycles For Short Riders List page so that you have a knowledge base in talking with a dealer's salesperson. An inseam measurement is a good thing to know ... consider that even on a narrow seat, legs have to push out a bit at the thigh before the leg will stretch down ... shave 2-3" off your inseam measurement for a guideline. If you would like, you can then start with my Motorcycle Seat Height chart to narrow down possibilities. Weight: smaller bikes weigh less and it can be a concern no matter what size you are. When you narrow down your list to go shopping, sit on bikes, take them off the kickstand and lean the bike a bit from side to side to feel what your leg can hold. At the same time, turn that handlebar all the way to one side and check that you can still reach the hand controls without shifting your body in the seat! Budget: there are lots of bikes we would all love to have, but $$ do figure into the equation, so while you're looking at the charts you'll need to determine if a new bike is in the budget or if a certain bike you're falling in love with is available on the used market. Ok ... you've got your short list ... now check back at the Short Riders List for some modification clues in your height range ... once again, we're arming you with info so you can talk the talk when shopping. At the same time, you can take a gander through the entire list for gals your height and freshen your view on a model not on your short list ... amend the list to your liking. Then head to the Fit Charts and see if we've got pictures of riders sitting on their bikes ... it's a great visual clue, but a newer initiative, so not all models have a lot of pictures yet. You'll also want to check to see if a woman's motorcycle review has come in on the models you're considering ... again, more clues! Then shop, shop, shop! Take a notebook along and jot down thoughts. Consider checking to see if a motorcycle show is coming to your area this fall/winter ... it's a great way to see all the makes/models in one setting and really get a belly full of information! 13 shows are coming in from Cycle World starting in late October. – Mama Friday, October 3 Honda Mini Report Dear Readers, New Models: Two models, the CBR600RR and the CBR1000RR, have added an ABS option! Also new to the line-up is the sporty CRF230M, a 223cc street-legal bike that extends the lower cc range. The big news is that the DN-01 cruiser has arrived in the U.S., "offering Honda's radical new HFT Transmission, it's an automatic unlike anything you've ever seen. You can shift it into six preset ratios, or you can let it function as a stepless, no-shifting Constantly Variable Transmission, or CVT." It's pricey for a 680cc, but the seat height is decent and the weight is in line with others in that class range. Seat Heights: Not a single change! Weights: Small changes in the Gold Wing (Base) and Shadow Spirit. Engine CC: Not a single change! MSRP Prices: Increases range from $100 to $500 with the notable exception of the base Gold Wing at $1400 ... but then the 2009 "base" has been upgraded from the 2008 ... both feature the premium audio package, but the 2009 also includes the comfort package (heated grips, seat, passenger backrest, and engine ducting for feet warming). Other Notes: At this time it looks like the Nighthawk may be on its way out. You'll also note that in the VTX1800 line-up, two variations already were phased out after 2007, but what's up with the F, N, and T? I'm not finding any online info and the Honda site is not showing 2009 specs. I'll keep my eye on that. – Mama Friday, October 3 Dear Petra, Dear Sarah, Often clad in black leather though, I see your point that in low light that might really not be as visible as the rider thinks. I advocate the use of turn signals ... in a timely manner (i.e. not at the last second like so many drivers/riders do) ... then lighting tapping the brakes to indicate the change in speed, and to add the hand signal if there is any doubt about the turn. I'll add two points. One, on a lane change in heavy traffic, I like to use the turn signal and then add the hand signal (of course I'm double checking over my shoulder as well). Two, in the group formations I ride in, the road captain starts with a turn signal and then adds the hand signal ... riders down the line mimic the sequence and there is no doubt about what the group needs to be doing! – Mama Friday, October 3 Hi There VTwin Mama, Dear Theresa, "Riding a motorcycle is more than getting from ‘Point A to Point B’, it’s a passion; a passion shared by many but understood by few outside the sport. Dorothy Bush, a Canadian woman, avid motorcyclist and writer, has interviewed women from all walks of life across Canada, delving into the mystery of what drives women to pursue this activity. In her book “Wind in My Face” she encourages women to leave behind the stereotypes of society and follow their dreams." For my readers who like to order through
Amazon, here is that direct link. Wind In My Face: Canadian Women Who Ride Friday, October 3 Hey Petra, Dear Jana, Monday, October 6 7 Days Left to Win a Free Pair of Sunglasses or Goggles! Dear Readers, Monday, October 6 Suzuki Mini Report Dear Readers, New Models: On the scooter scene, the famous Burgman 400 is adding an ABS variation model. Two standard models have been added, the Gladius 645cc and the TU250 249cc. Seat Heights: Not a single change! Weights: Following the example of other major manufacturers, Suzuki is now reporting the curb (running) weight instead of the dry weight ... a much better indicator for riders. Engine CC: Small changes were made from the 2008 reporting because on those model years one had to use a formula to get to the cc number ... so for 2009, the company is calling out the actual cc and my estimated 700 became 652, estimated 800 became 805, and estimated 1500 became 1462. MSRP Prices: Prices rose $100 to $700 depending on the model. Other Notes: It looks like the SV650 is leaving us in favor of the new Gladius (both are categorized as standard styles). I'm also not seeing an update on the standard style B-King, a first cousin to the Hayabusa. And is the Boulevard S83, formerly the Intruder 1400, phasing out? It appears the C90 will continue to fill that cruiser cc slot. – Mama Monday, October 6 Hyosung Mini Report Dear Readers, New Models: The company is adding a GV650 Special Limited Edition to celebrate its 30th Anniversary. No details are available other than the color scheme ... black bike with red details ... red wheel rims and frame parts. Seat Heights: Not a single change! Weights: Not a single change! Engine CC: Not a single change! MSRP Prices: $100-$400 increases except for the GT250R, which keeps its pricing for the solid color and adds $200 for a two tone scheme. Other Notes: I saw on the GV650 and three GT650 pages that fuel injection is coming to these models ... but no date set, so I'm gathering that's not for '09. – Mama Monday, October 6 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Neb, Tuesday, October 7 A follow-up summary about CW's bike and the problem when keys are lost: Not all challenges are played out in this column ... many times they are noodled out by email. CW and I continued to work on the issue of the bike he bought and that the previous owner lost the keys before they could be delivered to the new owner. Not all bikes are created equal when it comes to this challenge. After we confirmed that the same key fit the ignition, gas tank lock, and helmet lock, we tried to identify the least expensive way to solve the problem. All the locks have a key code stamped on them, but not all locksmiths will have the blank key stock to cut and not all dealers are in position to assist (other than to replace the various locks). It turns out that trying to remove the ignition switch, in order to bring it to a locksmith (an hour away), was very difficult to the point that it was ruled out. The gas tank lock was inaccessible. The helmet lock seemed the easiest path, but while CW could get a tool bit into the screw behind the locking bar, there was no room to turn the screw. We also discussed cutting the locking bar in order to gain access to the screw. This leads me to wonder that when a helmet lock is not in use, wouldn't it most prudent to leave it in the unlocked position so that if keys are lost, the helmet lock can easily be unscrewed and brought in for a new key to be cut? This doesn't solve the problem if you've locked your helmet and then lost your keys while roaming around, but it's still food for thought. In the end, CW has elected to hire a locksmith to come to his house (as transporting the bike is another layer that added challenges) ... the cost will be $120. So not cheap, especially for a college student on a tight budget. Still, he can't use the bike the way it is. I thought it was useful to summarize all of this as a wake-up tip on how costly lost keys can become. – Mama Tuesday, October 7 Dear VTwin Mama, Also, do you have any advice I can give to my husband on this? He doesn't want me to get a bike. Thanks, – D.H. Dear D.H., Gas mileage is a delicate balance between a number of factors. First, it takes energy to propel a mass (the bike) ... the heavier it is, the more energy it takes overall to move it. Second, design engineers have to place an engine in a frame that will be as efficient as possible ... if you undersize it it will waste gas trying to move the vehicle forward and if you oversize it, there's a tendency to rev up that throttle and zoom off. It's like cars ... if you drive it in a conservative manner, you will most likely cruise in a range of most efficiency. 45-50mph is a good middle ground for a bike. If you want better gas mileage, you'll have to get a lightweight moped, but that restricts your travel ability. While most riders choose a bike for the life style there certainly is more emphasis on the statistics showing that an increase in ownership is due to the fact that many are seeking an alternative mode of transportation to save on gas. But motorcycles, like all vehicles, aren't just about the gas mileage. You have to factor in registration, insurance, proper riding gear, and items that need to be replaced and maintained (oil, other fluids, tires, etc.). The question about a reluctant significant other (s/o) is a tougher challenge, as this can stem from so many different sources. I think that when someone writes to this column about this type of challenge it's really that any or all discussion on the subject has broken down and there appears no way to bridge the "point of view" gap. Like any good debate, one has to examine both sides with a clear head. The worst case is that general statements are made that are too vague to base a conversation on. One example would be, "I don't want you to ride." Well, what exactly does that mean? Here it is important to ask the person to more clearly state the exact concerns ... and shouting doesn't count! Perhaps the s/o has read lots of media coverage on accidents and deaths and is worried that you will become one of these statistics. He doesn't want to lose you. He wouldn't want to lose you in a car accident either, but that's an understood form of necessary transportation, whereas the motorcycle could be viewed as an unnecessary risk. Perhaps the s/o is all for saving money/gas on a less expensive motorcycle, but as pointed out before, there are a lot of underlying costs that need to be figured in. Can the budget handle it? Is there concern about taking on another financed obligation? Then there is the very difficult emotional baggage that could be happening. Examples would be, "I don't want to ride, so why should you want to do that?" or "Women shouldn't ride." or "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard." Now it's time for you to sit down in a quiet moment and really review what your s/o has been trying to tell you, examine whether you've been making general statements and need to clarify for yourself and him what the real intention/feeling is ... and when you've got a handle on that ... reopen the discussion. This isn't easy as you may be pushing to change a more basic underlying understanding in your marriage that has worked for all this time, but now isn't. But you just can't discount the other person and you shouldn't shovel your own needs under the carpet. Give all this some thought and remember that when you ask for clearer statements that you might have to give him some time to formulate his thoughts. Not everyone can react immediately ... not if they really want to be truthful about their feelings. – Mama Friday, October 10 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Leslie, As I See It: By Leslie Coler The very idea of a motorcycles brings to mind sexy black leathers, tough men with tattoos and worn jeans, dark bars where only the bravest of females dare enter, and air filled with the roar of revving engines. Historically,
driving a motorcycle has been a predominately male hobby. Not any more.
Recent reports claim that women,
who have been approximately 10 percent of motorcycle drivers, are now the
fastest growing population of new drivers.
Being a woman myself and a fairly new rider, I have some observations to share with my
male counterparts. Some things that may help you understand our experience
better. First, we aren’t going away. Just like you we love the thrill and the skill. Many new
female bike riders are over 40, some well over.
Often, after the kids are grown we begin to focus on ourselves a
little more. We are just returning to the interesting women you fell for
originally, remember us? Riding
a motorcycle is thrilling, requires skill and practice, and makes us feel
alive. Sound familiar? The reasons we ride are the same as yours, but often the experience is different. Secondly, we may focus on safety more than the men we
ride with. We women are trained to look out for our kids, our husbands and
ourselves; this safety issue transfers to our riding. We will often wear a helmet (even if it messes up our hair),
gloves, leathers, etc.
The riding classes we take teach us the value of riding gear and we
listen; which is a great segue to the next difference. Clothing: We want to look good while we ride. I purchased chaps then quickly sent them off to be customized. I don’t necessarily want my chaps to look like all the rest; some bling here, some color there. I t all makes me happy while I ride. My husband doesn’t get that, but that is ok. He bought his leather coat at a garage sale. Next I may get a tank bib to hold my cell phone that is color coordinated to match by bike. He won’t get that either. So, now I am safer and looking pretty good at the same time, and am still loving the ride. Could this get any better? All this may seem confusing to you, the men in our lives, but keep these
things in mind: It takes the same skills for us to ride as you use. Women,
who do not always jump into new adventures fearlessly, may find it more
comfortable to ride with other women at first, and sometimes slowly. I remember the first time out on the road
after the MSF class. I did really well in class but nothing there prepared
me for the wind and the noise I found on the open road. My husband was
appalled at how slowly I was riding; I could see it in the look he gave
me. He had been at it for
years and rides with ease. Me? I was trying to remember to look, lean and
roll, all the while overcoming my fear of the noise involved. I chose to
ride alone for one full year rather than see “the look” again; my
issue not his. You might consider letting us lead when we ride together;
we might feel safer with you between us and the cagers. Also, the
motorcycle groups we join may revolve around food rather than drinks.
Poker runs aren’t always our idea of a great way to spend every weekend,
although if the charity is a good one we will certainly jump on board.
Monday, October 13 Sunglasses/Goggles Contest Winners Announced! Dear Readers, The actual odometer reading on my bike Bumblebee at the conclusion of the Pacific Coast Sunglasses test and review was 20,677. The winners of the 10 pairs of sunglasses and goggles are: 1st prize: Liz (20678, +1) I will be contacting the winners one at a time, in the order of their winning entry, to select from the available prizes! Update Tues 10/14 ... if you are interested in reading what women have to say about eyewear fit, please visit this page on the VTM Message Board ... it has those entries plus the comments I received by email. You do not have to be a registered member of the board to read this thread! – Mama Monday, October 13 To DH who is looking to ride, has questions, but also her husband isn't supporting her dream: VTM is right about there being more to it than gas mileage, or even seat height. If you have a license, then you can test drive at a dealership and see what feels right. Some bikes are better for city, others for highway, others for maneuverability. Don't go by the name or class like cruiser. Some are more "cruiser" than others. The bike fit charts can show you an idea of the sizes of bikes and what height works with/without adaptations. I asked around my work about bikes, after I found myself too long legged for the bike I'd bought originally and it was more city than highway and I live in the country where almost all riding is highway. There are a lot of women riders where I work. Hope you and your significant other work it out amicably about the motorcycle. It is easy to say just do it for me as my husband also rides and doesn't object. He was a little worried at first, especially when I was going 10mph, but he's getting over it. However - I would ride even if he did object - unless he was truly hysterical (fearful, not bossy) ... then I might compromise by letting him get time to wrap his mind around it - or not. but only you know what you and your sig other can do. No relationship is the same, we all have different abilities and limits and things that matter more or less to us. – TTFN, Trish (note from Mama: thanks for sharing your insights with DH ... we're all wishing her well on her journey!) Wednesday, October 15 More about Voyager trike conversion bolt breaks: When I was searching for a trike I scoured the internet and got a lot of info, Voyager included - to the point that I went into "information overload"! LOL Unfortunately, I didn't write down all my sources, but bolt breaks on the Voyager certainly came up a number of times in various areas, and not just HD specific. One "fix" that stands out was to replace the original hardware with Grade 8 bolts, and to always use LocTite (I think I read that one on Trike Talk). Since the Voyager didn't really appeal to me, I didn't bother keeping any info on them, but here are a couple of sites that might help.... Trike Talk could be a good source of information - this site seems to include a wider variety of trikes (Lehman, Voyager, Frankenstein, etc), so there may be more Voyager owners here than on a lot of other sites. Another might be Brothers of the Third Wheel - they're mostly VW based trikers, but since most seem "hands on", they may have some ideas on how to fix the problem. Hope this helps! Ride Safe!! – Cheri, aka Spiritdream (note from Mama: I know we have heard about Brothers but I think it was about that "newbies" might not feel comfortable there. Thanks for pointing out Trike Talk ... looks like a good size membership!) Thursday, October 16 For Mid Life Crisis whose VStar 650 has a drive train whine: I also have a nice 2001 V-Star 650 Classic and it has whined like the
Jetson’s space car from day #1. I’m very mechanically inclined, do all
my own maintenance, but to this day I have not been able to locate the
cause or correction of the whining sound from this bike (I think it is
caused by the cut of the transmission gear teeth). At this time I have
over 23,000 miles on this bile and it still runs, and whines, just fine. I
have found that different grades of motor oil have an noticeable effect on
the whine, I suggest trying a couple of different ones until you find one
that reduces the whine to a reasonable level. Currently I’m using
Castrol 20W-50W motorcycle oil in mine and it seems to help. Tuesday, October 21 Run 4 Hope, 2 CA Locations, November 8th Dear VTwin Mama, Registration starts at 8am in two locations: Cooks Corner, 19152
Santiago Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon and Bartels Harley Davidson, 4141
Lincoln Blvd, Marina Del Rey. Kickstands up 11:00 AM at Cooks Corner and
10:30 AM at Bartels. Both rides end at Friscos Carhop, 4750 E Los Coyotes
Diagonal, Tuesday, October 21 Enter Sweepstakes Contest at H-D by November 6th Dear VTwin Mama, A contestant can customize, save and enter up to ten 2009 models between October 15 and November 6 and each will be entered to win. Representatives from the company will randomly select one bike, which will be awarded to the Grand Prize winner after the November 6 deadline. – Kelly Yahr, Harley-Davidson Tuesday, October 21 Dear VTwin Mama, I also attached a picture of my new ride, a 2006 Burgman 400. At 5'3" I can easily handle the weight and stand flat-footed. My scoot is in for the winter. In the picture I had a polar fleece top, two thermal undershirts, the quilted lining in the leather jacket, a polar fleece neck warmer, polar fleece wristies for my palms, wrists, and forearms, thermal pants under the leather pants, socks and winter ski socks under my leather boots and leather gloves. It takes 15 minutes just to get all those layers on! The sad part is, I was STILL COLD riding! Best wishes, – Mary, aka Pixie Dear Mary, Tuesday, October 21 Dear VTwin Mama, I also have a Ridley Auto Glide with a Tow Pac Insta Trike package with the l2 inch wheel kit and I love it. For any one that is physically challenged or anyone that doesn't like shifting gears the Ridley is great. I can ride with two wheels or with my trike kit on. Clay [owner of Ridley] does not recommend triking the Ridley, but I have to tell you it is a smooth ride and I have no problem keeping up with my husband on his HD. My husband did replace the bolts with Grade 8 because we read about the Voyager bolt problems. It is low maintenance and rides smooth. Would recommend the Ridley to anyone wanting an automatic. I am so glad to have your site to read about the other riders. Thanks a lot, – Cindy in GA Dear Cindy, I'm especially glad you told us more about your Ridley that you converted with Tow Pac. Yes, Ridley was not in favor of adding kits and I appreciate your note on the bolt change. I'll simply add that Ridley did respond to the call for an auto tranny trike this year with the introduction of the Auto-Glide Trike. – Mama Tuesday, October 21 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Fatima, Please take a look at my October 2nd letter in which I outline a step-by-step process that you can use to help guide you as begin your adventure in riding! – Mama Monday, October 27 Ride For Kids 2009 National Ride Schedule Dear Mama, Monday, October 27 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Mary, Some people may say it's not true, but most agree ... there are two types of riders ... the ones who have gone down and the ones who will go down. Most riders, at some point in their adventure in riding, have an oopsie. Hopefully not the really icky kind. Welcome to the club! While we may get messages of support as you continue to learn, my suggestion is that you take a look at the VTwin Mama Message Board as soon as possible ... and then register if you feel this community might be of interest. If ever there was a support system for new women riders, this is the place. Once you introduce yourself, the welcoming messages will come swimming in and you'll know you've found a home to share your thoughts, challenges, and triumphs! Just a thought. – Mama Monday, October 27 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Patty, Because this question comes up frequently, I have now put together a specific site page titled Buying Your First Motorcycle. This is a step by step guideline to using the tools on the VTwin Mama site to help you think about all the things to take into consideration and getting together a "short list" of bikes to consider. You can print this out, jot notes in the margins, and move confidently forward. Once you have your short list together, we stand ready to help you noodle out any "this vs. this" thoughts! – Mama Monday, October 27 Dear VTwin Mama, The TowPac kit almost appears slightly easier and quicker to convert back and forth with one person. Also there doesn't seem to be any loss of the amount of ground clearance. Apparently with the Voyager you lose 1 1/4 inches of ground clearance with installation. Also the TowPac is slightly cheaper than the Voyager. However from the demonstration videos the Voyager looks more stable and different fenders are available. Also looks like the tire size is different between the Voyager and TowPack. I saw the TowPac had 12" but was unable to find if the Voyager is a 12" or 14". I am sure there are more good/bads than this, but as I am somewhat uninformed, thus I seek knowledge from you Obiwan-mama ; P – Cynthia Dear Cynthia, You might find it helpful to call up each of the Trike pages, copy the entire page and paste that into a word processing document ... then you can do a search through the document to quickly bring you to each letter with the word TowPac or Voyager in it ... delete the rest ... and you will have "distilled" input to only what you want. Since you seek opinions, I think you'll get something out of this despite the work involved. Otherwise, we'll see who chimes in ... – Mama Monday, October 27 For Diane who wears contacts with sunglasses and full face helmet and still gets dust in her eyes: I wear the hard or gas permeable contacts. I don't wear a shield, I have a windshield. I bought some fishing glasses at Wal-Mart for a little over $9. They have a mirrored lens, great glasses! Don't have any problem with dust! – Anonymous (note from Mama: interesting ... I agree that sporting gear besides the motorcycle stuff can often times offer up a solution!) Wednesday, October 29 CF Moto US Dear Readers, Wednesday, October 29 Pride In What You Ride Dear Readers, They've been busy retooling their website and boards ... and the VTwin Mama site has been added to their PIWYR Spotlight page ... thanks! My readers can always find the site by going to Bike Fix/Help by Make/Model page! – Mama Wednesday, October 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Anon, Now the answer depends on other factors ... have you taken a riding course (good idea) ... that will get you on a 250cc bike for starters so you can gauge how comfortable you are with the power and weight and give you clues on getting the Silverado. If you have been to a dealer showroom you might want to go back and double check your own leg reach to foot controls and the ground and your arm reach to the hand controls ... you want nothing to stretched out or cramped ... and you should be able to turn the handlebar all the way to one side and still sit solid in the seat. I'm hoping this answers your biggest questions, but as always, write back if you have other factors of concern. – Mama Wednesday, October 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Lorie, Wednesday, October 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear ladywildcat, Wednesday, October 29 Dear VTwin Mama, Dear Anon, Thursday, October 30 Women's Conference, Aug '09, Keystone, CO Dear Readers, For readers of the VTwin Mama site and message board, I have created a section on the message board for those who wish to discuss the conference, including traveling to it, lodging, and getting together. You do not need to register to simply read the board, but register to participate! – Mama
|
| © 2008 VTwin Mama | Disclaimer |
–
Mama