Hello everyone,
Want to take a minute to introduce myself. I’ve been visiting this site for almost a year, trying hard to learn as much as possible before getting a bike. I’ve wanted to ride for many years, and just lately been able to get started. Without this site, I had thought I would get a bike and learn to ride; after such good advice from Ben and all the members and guest on this site, though, I realized I needed to take the BRC first, move down a couple steps in my idea of a “first” bike, and just take my time.
I live in the Charlotte area, which has great access to mountains, country roads and the beach, but the traffic through town can get scary; I guess it’s the NASCAR influence — everyone’s just racin’. Had thought of a 250 (looked long & hard at a really nice Virago 250), but in the BRC, I thought the 250s were slow in accelerating. I decided I wanted something a little quicker off the line, to help get through the multiple-lane intersections around town. I chose a gently used 2001 Suzuki Savage. Lots of giddyup but still mild enough for a beginner. That year still had the buckhorn handlebars, giving it a little chopper feel. The typical backfire is there, of course, but I’m getting used to it. I’ve already realized it will take a good long time before my skills are beyond what the bike is capable of.
Just been riding for a few weeks, exploring the roads near home. As luck would have it, every weekend when I’m free to ride, it rains. Going to take my time, build my skill and work my way up to longer rides. No hurry for the iron-butt all-day ride yet.
Ride safe.
.
