[skippersusie]

I always learn so much from you guys! At least now I can appreciate the advice and understand it.

Our coach told us the same, basically use the rear brake to control your speed and keep the throttle on for traction. I got caught in a few small showers this winter and I’m glad i practiced this in the parking lot a few times before trying it on the road. I was surprised at how little pressure it really takes. Had I tried this at 55 for the first time on a turn, well, not sure how that one would have ended.

Thanks again!

[skippersusie]

I learned on a GZ250.. awesome first bike (IMHO)..

I had the same problem NB. I found that I can actually hold the throttle in place using the palm of my hand while gripping with my index finger and thumb. I stretch out the other 3 fingers and it seems to help, both with not gripping to tightly and stretching some of my hand. Not sure if that helps, or even makes sense… Best of luck!

[skippersusie]

I sat here reading your story and my heart filled with sadness at your loss and the sobering reminder of how dangerous this stuff is. I am new to riding and while I have put some miles on the bike the last 6 months, I am constantly reminded that I have even more to learn. I haven’t invested in riding pants yet, but damn straight heading over to get a pair tomorrow.

I am sure that story was really difficult to share but I just wanted to thank you for it. i think we’re all glad you were able to tell it.

[skippersusie]

You ok? If it were me, I’d have it towed, just to be safe. But there are lots more folks whose experience and opinions I’d defer to.

[skippersusie]

Yeah.. it was a pretty cold ride to work last week. My commute route takes me through a small canyon and I noticed it was a bit slicker when it was 6 am and “chilly”.

Wondered why they put those “ICY” signs up!!!

[skippersusie]

Munch…
Awesome advice as usual…. Thanks for adding the VStar 650 to the list!!!

[skippersusie]

Thanks Munch… I did that and glad I did… too much to keep track of. I also took pics. Picked up the Clymer book, the PO had the shop manual so I have been going back and forth between the two. Luckily, the shop where I buy my auto parts have a few guys who ride and they’ve been a big help.

Hey Madjak,you probably know this already but they told me about a gasket remover in a can, looks and smells like paint thinner that was safe to use on my cover. It took all of about 5 minutes to get it nice and clean with a light touch of the razor after letting it soak in the stuff for 15 mins or so. No scarring!! I just made sure I covered up all the components attached to the cover to protect them from the overspray and we are good to go. I’m waiting for a new starter to get here… found an upgrade at a great $$ and decided to put it in. Let me know how it goes!!

Since the bike has been sitting for two weeks now, I think I am going to have the shop do the tuneup. I’m sure they can get it done much quicker… I want to ride!!

[skippersusie]

Hi Bass and welcome. I’m a new rider too and one thing I’ve learned about this site is that everyone is willing to offer up their expertise, and always go easy.

I took the MSF myself and am planning on taking my bike a Virago 700 to their experienced rider course when it becomes available. What I learned was invaluable and reinforced alot of what folks here talk about. Good news is, at least in CA, they use 250’s to start out with. I learned so much and realized that I would need a bigger bike, as I too wanted to commute and eventually carry a rider.

I am probably alot smaller than you and there is a definite difference between my experience on the 250 vs the 700. I have noticed that alot of the info on the site is really geared towards sport bikes. I am definitely a novice, but from what I have read here and on other sites, a 700 cruiser is not comparable to a 700 sport bike, but I would defer to one of the many more experienced folks on here to confirm that. But as a point of reference my bike weighs about 600 lbs and I can still catch it if it starts to go over (as I have had to do on 2 occassions so far). I do believe that if you are doing highway trips or have additional weight on the bike, that extra power will come in handy.

The Vulcans are nice looking bikes, of course I would tell you to look at the V-Stars if you are looking new or a Virago if you’re looking used, but I am partial and biased. I bought my bike before I toook the course, but I knew it was exactly what I wanted, I had lusted after them for years.

Regardless, please let us know how the course goes and what you decide on… best of luck!!!
SS

[skippersusie]

Thanks Jeff… nice article. I grew up hearing about the legend of Sturgis, hoping to get there someday myself now that I am finally on 2 wheels. There is just something about the cycle community that I am really attracted to. I am finding that the folks around here appreciate my old Virago as much if not more than some of the newer H-Ds. When an oldschool guy with a long gray beard and hair on a knuklehead nods and smiles… I feel good.

[skippersusie]

WOW!!!!!
Where do I get one…. NOT!

[skippersusie]

Thanks!! Agreed Munch.. the seat is on the priority list. The chrome is really rusted on the engine guard and the pipes so I picked up a rust removing wheel for the drill and have been working on a few areas. Like the results so far, but I think it will take a while. Is it ok to use an engine degreaser on the underside? Not sure if there is anything under there that could be damaged.

I really like the Vulcans as well. If I hadn’t picked this one up, the Vulcan would have been next on the list.

And you were right.. amazing how my commute has started a little earlier and lasts a little longer now!

[skippersusie]

Hi Sam… I’m a newbie crusier too!! Good for you taking the course. I grew up around bikes and was amazed at how UNSAFE my uncles were riding. Glad I took their advice, it was $$ well spent.

Like you, I like the cruisers too. I’m 5’3″ and for me they just fit me better and I like sitting upright : )… besides, I like the way they look.

When I took the MSC, I used one of their GZ250’s. I had a blast and started rethinking my purchase of a Virago 700 based on my limited 2 day experience and the recommendations I read here. But after riding for the last few weks, I’m glad I went with the bigger bike. I started out riding quick white knuckled trips on the back roads and have gradually made my way into traffic and onto the hills. I am having a blast, but taking it nice and slow. I only ride in my own comfort zone. But, I know the power is there when I need it. I live in a really hilly area.

One of the regulars here gave me some solid advice. He told me not to push it, take it easy and just get out and ride and get to know the bike… and that’s what I’ve done. I’m definitely new to this and the folks here are awesome and have a lot of solid advice based on alot more experience then I’ll ever have.

Not saying you should go out and by an 1100, but do check out the wet weight of the bike and the seat height. Mine weighs almost 600 lbs. and I thought it would be unmanagable, but it really doesn’t feel like it is too heavy. And yes, I have dumped it once… backing up into a parking space. was able to get it up on my own though.

Whatever you decide, i hope you stick around… it’s nice to have another “chick” aboard!!!!

[skippersusie]

Munch… yer the best.. I’m trying to wait till 830 to fire her up and “go get gas”… my neighbors were blown away yesterday when they heard her coming. Luckily, there are a few Harleys in the neighborhood, so they’re use to it. I am starting to realize the other part of why people ride, BEAUTIFUL! Like I said, I sail small boats and that ride yesterday is about as close as i’ve come to feeling that way on land.

Posting pics in the pic forum now.

[skippersusie]

Cyclegear was good to me. As a first time rider, they had a woman in the store that was able to give me her perspective on my gear choices and really helped me to find the stuff that fit. They carry their own line which is a little less expensive than some of the brands listed here, if that is a factor. I’m 5’2″ and was having trouble finding stuff tha had armour and was comfortable too. The guys were also willing to help me out on my second visit, which I was really happy with. If yo live in an area they aren’t in, the do have a website and a very forgiving return policy.

Best of luck!
SS

[skippersusie]

Beautiful bike Nick!! Post some pics so we can see her.

I too am a newbie, but this site is awesome. Lots of great folks on here willing to share their knowledge & expertise. Good choice on the Honda. I was in love with the Sportster 883XL.. but like you jus couldn’t pay that much $$$ on a first bike. I picked up a Virago 700 and so far so good (grant it, I’ve only had it 4 days) but it is awesome to just be out there.

Congrats again & welcome!!!!
SS

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