Cruiser for learning? [Archive]

Skotty

05-18-2011, 08:21 AM

I guess I'm just trying to be smart, and not make things any harder for myself as a newbie:D:! My 2 lessons are my only bike experience & I was pretty wobbly, felt like a newly fledged baby bird. No drops, several stalls, came sort of close to running over teacher :lol:, he shouldn"t have stood in front like that! Felt too quick & wobbled & grabbed front brake, then dropped clutch & stalled (this was on friction zone work). & that's why I'm only supposed to use the back brake ATM. He has me starting off with no throttle, so very slow & often wobbly. Then going into friction zone & a little throttle once I'm moving.

ImaSoftT

05-18-2011, 09:00 AM

Hang in there Skotty, once you get the basics down pat and can increase your speed a little the wobbles will ease up. After only 2 lessons it sounds like you are doing fine. I think the key here is PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. All baby birds learn to fly and so will you.
Oh, and do try not to run over your teacher they tend to get upset over that and then http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/GAAH%21.gif at you. Best of luck to you.

Luna Tique

05-18-2011, 09:50 AM

:iagree: If a cruiser sings to you, then why fight it? ;):

+1

KansasKawboy

05-18-2011, 11:31 AM

The Honda Rebel and Suzuki GZ250 are both 250s and are considered cruisers (forward controls) and both are used here in the Basic Rider Classes. If you can find a used one to learn on you don't have to worry about dropping it (you will) and they are light and when you are ready for a bigger bike you can sell it to another new rider.

lerxstqueen

05-18-2011, 12:21 PM

Can't recommend the 250 Rebel enough! It's nice and low to the ground so you don't have to worry about tipping over so much at slow speeds. Lots of fun to learn on. <3

Alcyone

05-18-2011, 11:26 PM

Cruiser...Standard...Street....Sport....etc....

So many bikes, so little room in the garage....

I thought I preferred the cruisers too. My learner bike is an 81' Yamaha Exciter. Little 250cc standard motorcycle that turned out to be perfect for me to learn on. Recently I moved up to the V-Star 650. I like my Star, but I also came to realize that I really enjoyed that 250. It corners like a champ and uncovered this strange yearning for curvy, mountainous roads. My time on the 250 really taught me to trust the bike and lean into my turns. I've scraped the floorboards on the Star several times leaning into turns. Although I don't plan on moving up to a new bike for the next 5 years or so, I find myself looking more at the sport touring bikes for my next bike.

I think what I realized is that I don't have to commit to only one type of bike. There is nothing that says I have to get rid of my 250 or the Star when I get a new bike. All I'll have to do is get rid of some of the stuff that is in the garage to make room for it :)

Luna Tique

05-19-2011, 09:15 AM

No reason at all it is called MMS ( multiple motorcycle syndrome) many of us have it and there is no cure but there is a treatment and it is to buy another bike.:lol:

VStar

05-25-2011, 09:59 PM

Of course you can learn to ride on a cruiser style, I was brand spanking new when I started on a Vstar 650. Half the bikes in the MSFclass were the small 250cc cruisers. Find a good used one and practice every chance you can, you'll soon be experienced enough to try other styles, after that, who knows what will catch your fancy.

anthraxmetal

06-08-2011, 05:29 PM

Can't believe I missed this thread, I was also wondering if a cruiser would be suitable.
Once again, encouragement from all you lovely ladies!
A cruiser sings to me too and I won't fight it! Good luck with yours, make sure you update us with what u get and how you get on :) xx

Skotty

06-09-2011, 12:15 AM

Hey Anthraxmetal, I bought a 250cc Yamaha Virago. It's a 2008 model, nice & shiny. I haven't ridden it yet, apart from rolling across my back patio. I'm in Western Australia which means I cannot ride on the road without a spupervisor until I pass my practical riding test (riding on the road at normal traffic speeds, u-turns, slow speed manouvres etc etc). So it makes it a bit harder to get out & practice since I need my boyfriend to take the bike to a carpark for me so I can get to know it a little. I've had 4 1 hour lessons on a CB250, still in the carpark on that one.

Chem Chick

06-09-2011, 01:32 PM

Hey Anthraxmetal, I bought a 250cc Yamaha Virago. It's a 2008 model, nice & shiny.

Ohhh I just got a 2005 Virago 250, we should be learning buddies :roflmao:

Luna Tique

06-09-2011, 06:26 PM

:lol:

Skotty

06-09-2011, 11:44 PM

Ohhh I just got a 2005 Virago 250, we should be learning buddies :roflmao:

:lol: Chem Chick. Have you been riding much? I've washed & polished, pumped up the tyres, bought a cover & some chain lube, replaced the broken tail light lens, AND rolled at the friction point across my back patio a few times. :):

I also downloaded an owners manual & have sat a few times & just turned indicators, etc on & off!

I'm hoping that my boyfriend might have time on Sunday to take me to a nice, lonely carpark, so I can have a first go at riding her.

albqsusieq

06-09-2011, 11:58 PM

Hope Sunday works out. Keep us posted and enjoy!

Chem Chick

06-10-2011, 03:18 PM

:lol: Chem Chick. Have you been riding much? I've washed & polished, pumped up the tyres, bought a cover & some chain lube, replaced the broken tail light lens, AND rolled at the friction point across my back patio a few times. :):

I also downloaded an owners manual & have sat a few times & just turned indicators, etc on & off!

I'm hoping that my boyfriend might have time on Sunday to take me to a nice, lonely carpark, so I can have a first go at riding her.

No not yet, there is still one more broken part that is preventing the bike from idling. It should arrive by FedEx today. My husband has taken it out for a few loops though and everything else seems to be okay.

Skotty

06-12-2011, 03:51 AM

So got my boyfriend to ride the bike to a shopping centre carpark for me this afternoon. I mentioned taking the bike somewhere to practise & he asked if I was going to ride it there - I said no, not yet. Honestly, these men with no nerves & no trouble learning new things make it a little hard. I'm sure he has no idea why I'm not ready to try the road yet!:rolleyes:

So he rode & I drove my car since the tyres needed filling he thought we shouldn't both ride. Then I practised just going around the carpark, tried circles & figure 8s, stopping & starting, I think maybe I got up to 25km per hour!!! The friction zone I think is smaller than on the CB250 I've ridden, and it was hard trying to get used to that, also trying get the revs rough was hard. Theres no tacho, so I have no idea what the revs are. My instructor tells me to have the CB250 revving at 2000 or so & use friction point for slow speed control. Anyway I just pootled around & about & changed up & down 1st to 2nd, 3rd a couple of times, started & stopped etc etc. All went well, but I need to find a larger space to get more speed, I can't really go on the road at 25kmph :):

I have another lesson on Tuesday, supposed to be doing e-stops this time, as well as the slow speed manouvres, up & down 1st to 2nd, while doing mirrors, head checks, indicators on & off etc etc. It sure fills my brain up!:D:

ridingAK

06-12-2011, 08:24 AM

I'm glad you got to get out and ride a little, even if your space could have been a bit larger. Are there any back roads in your area where you could practice during off hours without seeing many cars?

ImaSoftT

06-12-2011, 08:34 AM

Luna Tique

06-12-2011, 09:18 AM

As with learning anything new, learning to ride a motorcycle can feel overwelming in the begining, but as SoftT pointed out in a short period of time the basics of shifting and braking will become automatic then you can concentrate on becoming smooth, more relaxed and fine tune those skills. :riding:

zee

06-12-2011, 09:36 AM

http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif hope you had fun while you were practicing. When you are new it does seem like there are a million things to remember, but soon you will be doing most of it automatically.

+1. Good job!!

I was going through the basics with one of my sons yesterday. He had trouble finding neutral, tried to start while holding in the brake, let out the clutch a little too fast... each time looking over at me with this expression of "What happened there, I thought I was doing what you told me".... until that attempt where he said "I know what I did, just a sec". I got a HUGE grin on my face when he said that, both for the pride in knowing he's learning and remembering when that lightbulb came on for me during my practices.

albqsusieq

06-12-2011, 08:34 PM

:yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:
Way to go!!!!

Skotty

06-14-2011, 06:25 AM

I had lesson number 5 today, this was my second lesson in the wet & it was cold too! At least cold for Perth - 14 Celsius. I put long johns under my Draggins, but still got pretty chilly by the end, even though it didn't rain enough to get me really wet, just damp.

Gradually things are getting easier, starting to get the moves a little easier, though I did end up in the wrong gear a couple of times! Today was practicing emergency stops, so as well as my friction zone u-turns using indicators mirrors, headchecks, changing up to 2nd gear, then doing 25kmph till teacher puts his hand up, then clutch in & SQUEEZE front brake, don't grab, then apply rear brake as you get slower (I think that was the plan:lol:) . Then into 1st once stopped, another u-turn back up & down the carpark & do it over, rinse & repeat!! I need to go straight for a little while before I turn, as my starts are often abit wobbly.
It got easier once I did the first one without hurling myself over the handlebars :D:. Surprising how the front end lifts up again after I let go of the front brake once stopped.

ImaSoftT

06-14-2011, 07:58 AM

Skotty, I've been riding for years and I'm not sure I could recall the sequence of actions like you just did. When you put it down in writing it really does seem like you have a lot of going on. Glad to hear it is getting easier for you and the more time you spend in the saddle the easier it will become until one day you will be doing it without thinking it first.

Do you have a set of rain gear? It's not easy to concentrate when your wet and cold and besides you will need rain gear forever. Even here in TX where it doesn't rain all that much I carry my rain gear ALL the time, I don't like to get wet cause I'm a sissy :lol:

Keep up the good work, it sounds like you are doing great.

ridingAK

06-14-2011, 09:21 AM

That really does sound complicated when you break it down! As IST says, the good thing about practice is that soon you will do those actions without thinking, and riding won't feel nearly as challenging. In the meantime, you are doing it right, practice practice practice...

Skotty

06-14-2011, 09:37 AM

Do you have a set of rain gear? It's not easy to concentrate when your wet and cold and besides you will need rain gear forever. Even here in TX where it doesn't rain all that much I carry my rain gear ALL the time, I don't like to get wet cause I'm a sissy :lol:

Keep up the good work, it sounds like you are doing great.

Thanks ImasofT, the basics do seem to be getting easier :):.

I also don't much like getting wet & since i'm pretty skinny, I get cold real easy too. I'm on a budget though, so have to take care with my shopping. I need to find time to get into a bike shop & do some trying on, then maybe I can start looking online/Ebay etc. Do people mostly wear a waterproof jacket, or have a thinner rain jacket that goes over their gear? I'll also have to get some type of luggage arrangement sometime, the virago has a little pillion seat & grabrail, but no backrest or rack so far.

ImaSoftT

06-14-2011, 09:56 AM

My rain gear goes right over my riding gear. Mostly I just need the jacket, but there has been a time or two that the rain pants came in real handy. You have the right idea about trying on gear in a shop then looking elsewhere to make the purchase. You can pick up some really good gear at big savings that way. It just takes a little longer to find just what you are looking for.

Since you don't have side cases you might try a small back pack to start with, but try to keep it light so it doesn't throw you off balance. It all takes time but it's fun hunting for all the goodies we want for our rides. It's like a mini Christmas every time I get a new gadget or piece of gear.

ridingAK

06-14-2011, 10:39 AM

Thanks ImasofT, the basics do seem to be getting easier :):.

I also don't much like getting wet & since i'm pretty skinny, I get cold real easy too. I'm on a budget though, so have to take care with my shopping. I need to find time to get into a bike shop & do some trying on, then maybe I can start looking online/Ebay etc. Do people mostly wear a waterproof jacket, or have a thinner rain jacket that goes over their gear? I'll also have to get some type of luggage arrangement sometime, the virago has a little pillion seat & grabrail, but no backrest or rack so far.

You might look into something like Frogg Toggs (http://www.froggtoggsraingear.com/Suits.shtm). Compared to a lot of rain gear they are much cheaper, and they roll up small enough that you can carry them without sacrificing too much space.

Skotty

06-27-2011, 11:07 AM

So I have not had my bike out again in the 2 weeks since my last lesson & I have lesson number 6 tomorrow. It's been a busy time & since I cannot ride alone it needs boyfriend & I to both be free to get out. Never mind, there's no real rush!
I've had 2 out of 5 lessons with rain, not heavy, but wet ground, and a little rain while riding.
And the forecast for tomorrow -
Rain, heavy at times in the morning with the risk of a squally thunderstorm.
Rain easing to a few showers from late afternoon. Strong and gusty N/NW'ly
winds, then becoming fresh W'ly during the afternoon and evening.

:singingrain: This maybe appropriate - my lesson is at 2pm, so a good chance of getting wet I think. Glad I'm still in the carpark, we were working on quick stops last time!
Boyfriend says I need to be able to do 60kph before I can really go on the road, but I reckon that'll be tough in the carpark - it's not huge! I told him what I want to practice before the road is turning from stop signs in the carpark. So far I'm abit wobbly as I take off, so I need to go straight a little before turning. I need to get to a point where I can turn left and not need more than one lane width to do it.
I figure if I get the turning, stopping and starting going Ok, then I just need to speed up in the middle bits! How hard could that be :lol:.

indianscout

06-27-2011, 11:34 AM

Sorry I've been away and haven't been here to participate with you ladies in this discussion and hope you'll forgive me for being away but I had to add my 2 cents worth to this discussion. I have an aquantance, late 20's, petite single mom who wants to learn to ride along with the encouragement from her bf. The problem is he wants her to start off on a bike like his. You know what he rides?? An Iron Horse chopper!!!! I did manage to convince both of them that she needs to learn on something smaller and more manageable for her and perhaps one day (if she wants to) step up to something like that. I explained it to her that it's like getting your first car. Most start out with something older and smaller to allow them to gain the skills needed before you get that sports car you've always wanted. That seemed to convince her and I thought she was on the right track when she bought an older 750 Honda and took her MC classes and passed with flying colors. But now with less than 100 miles she is back looking at the chopper thing again. Funny thing is that he wants her to get one but won't let her try his to see if she likes it or not........I don't see anything good coming out of this at all.:mgbanghead::mgbanghead:

Good luck with your classes Skotty and I look forward to hearing about your success!

chienjouet

06-27-2011, 12:28 PM

I am learning on a Honda Nighthawk 250 and I've never ridden a motorcycle before. I've had two sessions with my husband in a research parking lot. My MSF classes begin July 10th and being only 5'4" and not great upper body strength, this has been really a great fit for me.

I've gotten up to 3rd gear, left and right turns, taking off from a stop, then immediately turning....the simple stuff.

The only down side is that I think my model is known for being difficult to locate neutral, which for me is highly concerning at a stop, but I'm told I'll learn how to find it easier the more I ride.

As a beginner, the fact that I can hold it up myself and put both feet squarely on the ground, gives me security, when everything else is new and scary, this helps me.'

Good luck!

ImaSoftT

06-27-2011, 12:29 PM

Sorry I've been away

But now with less than 100 miles she is back looking at the chopper thing again. Funny thing is that he wants her to get one but won't let her try his to see if she likes it or not........I don't see anything good coming out of this at all.:mgbanghead::mgbanghead:

Good to have you back IS, we missed you. As for the young lady I think the old saying "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink" fits this situation. You have done your best to educate her, now what she does with that knowledge is in her hands. I wish her the best of luck.

ImaSoftT

06-27-2011, 12:42 PM

The only down side is that I think my model is known for being difficult to locate neutral, which for me is highly concerning at a stop, but I'm told I'll learn how to find it easier the more I ride.
Good luck!

Just a note of caution chien, I think when you make a stop on the street or road side it is best to leave the bike in 1st gear just in case you have to make an evasive more to avoid being hit from behind or elsewhere. Just my http://www.pashnit.com/forum/images/smilies/2cents.gif

indianscout

06-27-2011, 12:47 PM

Good to have you back IS, we missed you. As for the young lady I think the old saying "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink" fits this situation. You have done your best to educate her, now what she does with that knowledge is in her hands. I wish her the best of luck.

Thanks, good to be back too! I understand and agree but it still doesn't make it any easier. But she's a big girl and fully capable of making her own decisions and I'll still continue to support her but still have a very bad feeling on the out-come of this whole thing. :shrug:

chienjouet

06-27-2011, 12:48 PM

Great tip! :thumbup: Solves the problem and adds safety...can't beat that! Thanks!

Just a note of caution chien, I think when you make a stop on the street or road side it is best to leave the bike in 1st gear just in case you have to make an evasive more to avoid being hit from behind or elsewhere. Just my http://www.pashnit.com/forum/images/smilies/2cents.gif

indianscout

06-27-2011, 12:59 PM

Just a note of caution chien, I think when you make a stop on the street or road side it is best to leave the bike in 1st gear just in case you have to make an evasive more to avoid being hit from behind or elsewhere. Just my http://www.pashnit.com/forum/images/smilies/2cents.gif

My opinion is the additional time to react is enough to dramatically change the outcome of a potentially bad situation. That would be about the same as putting your car in park at every stop wouldn't it?

KansasKawboy

06-27-2011, 03:12 PM

chienjouet you are starting out on the right bike. I can understand needing to have a light bike and both feet flat on the ground. Younger people have less fear than us not so young people. Oh by the way I have been riding for years and this past Feb. I bought a 250 and am enjoying riding more than I ever have. As a guy I get a little razzing but I don't care I'm riding what I want.

indianscout

06-27-2011, 03:16 PM

Little bikes ROCK!!

chienjouet

06-27-2011, 04:14 PM

:D: Bet the cow's mad, though!!

Thanks for the encouragement!

chienjouet you are starting out on the right bike. I can understand needing to have a light bike and both feet flat on the ground. Younger people have less fear than us not so young people. Oh by the way I have been riding for years and this past Feb. I bought a 250 and am enjoying riding more than I ever have. As a guy I get a little razzing but I don't care I'm riding what I want.

chienjouet

06-27-2011, 04:16 PM

Cyclone67

06-27-2011, 05:11 PM

I do love my little Honda. It's really quite nice looking. Kind of classic, for all I know about Motorcycles, but it suits me now.

I'll probably be outgrowing it in time, but for now, it's just the perfect bike for me.

I bet you'll find that you will want to hang onto it! I have a little 200cc bike and although it's not my primary bike -- I plan to keep it as long as it's running. It is a fun little scoot!! :wootrock:

Skotty

06-28-2011, 12:25 AM

chienjouet

06-28-2011, 01:08 AM

chienjouet, I think your Nighthawk is the same as the CB250 I do my lessons on. As far as I can figure they had a different name here in Australia. It's a friendly little bike for a beginner I think. I bought a 250 Virago for myself, but I can only ride under supervison of another rider since i am a learner, so most of my ride time has been on the CB250 so far. :):

Yes. Sounds like a very similar bike.

I have my learners permit, so I can ride wherever I want, but no passengers and not at night...but.Oh, My God...I am so not ready for either of those things.

If I could just shift without lurching and looking like a fool, I'd be happy. So frustrating!

Little by little, I guess, row by row.

Good Luck with your practicing!

Skotty

06-28-2011, 01:27 AM

I have my learners permit, so I can ride wherever I want,

A learners permit in Western Australia is achieved by doing a theory test, and lets me ride a 250 or smaller but only with competent supervision by a rider on another bike, or pillion or sidecar on my bike!!! Can't imagine learning with a pillion on - crazy!
I won't be able to ride alone at all till I pass the full test, which means riding on normal roads at normal speed limits, doing u-turns, quick stops etc. Then it's another year on the 250 before I can do another test on a larger bike to get an unrestricted licence, although I can ride a bigger bike as a learner under supervision.[/quote]

My instructor just called to cancel todays lesson. We have a severe weather warning here, wind & rain. He didn't think it was necessarliy the best time to be learning my quick stops & I have to say I kind of agree! Will rebook for next week later on, since he couldn't open his diary to do the booking, since it's too wet out there!:):

chienjouet

06-28-2011, 01:45 AM

Sounds like a very thorough system. Have fun!

My instructor just called to cancel todays lesson. We have a severe weather warning here, wind & rain. He didn't think it was necessarliy the best time to be learning my quick stops & I have to say I kind of agree! Will rebook for next week later on, since he couldn't open his diary to do the booking, since it's too wet out there!:):

Skotty

07-06-2011, 11:17 PM

So, this week I had lessons 6 & 7, and still in the carpark. Did get out onto the road, so I could use the whole length of the carpark, rather than doing U-turns within it, which let me get up to 40kph for quick stops. Terry (my instructor) describes my acceleration style as "sedate", so I need plenty of space :D:. This massive speed caused my knees to tremble! Plus the concept of turning out onto the actual road, then back in to the carpark caused some stress, even though I was waiting until there were no cars at all within sight.
I'd had 3 weeks between rides, which is too long at this stage.
Still having to concentrate hard on the details, throttle control on u-turns, making sure to keep elbows straight on quick stops, keep even pressure on both hands etc etc. I had a few errors, wrong gear, stalled once in u-turn, but able to just correct & keep going. terry's good about stopping for a sit & talk which lets me settle down abit when I feel a little shaky. I'm feeling abit like a slow learner, but hoping it will all click together with more time. I guess I've probably had about 5.5 - 6 hours total riding time so far.
The final thing we did was trying "normal" stops using both brakes, as if at a stop sign etc. I kept stopping too early, I need to get used to how effective the front brake is & work out how much pressure to use. Have only been using rear brake or doing quick stops previously. Next week if all goes well we'll go for a gentle ride around the very quiet streets in the area :eek: . I'll have to remember my breathing for that one!

ridingAK

07-07-2011, 12:53 AM

Sounds like you are making great progress!

ImaSoftT

07-07-2011, 09:36 AM

:iagree: with rAK, you are doing great. I can remember some of those feelings of "I'll never be at ease on this thing" but believe me you will. Oh and that breathing thing, that one is pretty important to remember also. http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif

Astir

07-07-2011, 09:43 AM

It will all pull together! It sounds to me like you are doing great! :wootrock:

Luna Tique

07-08-2011, 08:36 AM

Forward progress is great news :yahoo:
One day soon all of this will all flow together smoothly

Skotty

07-11-2011, 04:18 AM

So, today was lesson number 8! And, it being winter here, it was raining again, and COLD, 12 C which is 53 or so F. For us thin blooded Aussies, that qualifies as bloody freezing (technical term) :D:. I've had a couple of lessons on wet ground, and light showers, but today it just rained lightly for the whole hour.
I stopped off on the way & bought some gloves, since my hands froze last week. They don't have hard armour, but they are lined with a kevlar fabric, waterproof (hopefully) and padded, and comparatively cheap. It was my first time riding with gloves & it took some getting used to! I found it kind of tricky with the throttle & clutch, since I'd lost dexterity & sensitivity, but I know gloves are the safest & most comfortable thing, so I need to get used to them.
The plan was to go on the road for the first time today, and that made me feel pretty freaked out. So of course all my carpark stuff was worse than usual, stalled once in a u-turn, fine hand control pretty dodgy etc. So I just practised all that, up & down through the gears, slowing to a stop ( as opposed to quick stops) etc etc.
Then we had the chat about road positioning in different conditions (I'm sure I've forgotten at least half of it - and there wasn't all that much!) & how other drivers are morons out to get you:eek:, especially on roundabouts. Teacher then took me for a pillion ride to show me where we would go - I must be the worlds biggest chicken I think, I doubt he does that for everyone.
After that he said if I wanted to go we would, if I wanted to just stay in the carpark, then that's fine. I felt pretty nervy, but figured I need to get out there, so off we went. We only went about a mile or so I think, and it was all flat roads, but we turned in each direction, went round a few gentle curves, a roundabout, u-turn & back again. I was doing my best to remember my head checks, indicators off after turn, up & down gears etc etc. I was leading & I only got up to maybe 30 kmph but that felt fast enough for now. Luckily it's very quiet & no other traffic to worry about. Also luckily there was no oncoming traffic to force me through the HUGE puddle we went past, I was able to go around.
Next lesson is next week - onwards & upwards!:thumbup:

ImaSoftT

07-11-2011, 09:14 AM

:clapping: You are doing so great. One good thing, you are getting plenty of training for riding in the rain, if you ever move to England you will all set. :lol: Riding with gloves is a bit different at first, but once you are going faster you will be glad you have them, hitting bugs at 70 mph (112 kph) really stings your bare hands. Your teacher sounds like a really nice person, glad you found him.

Astir

07-11-2011, 10:03 AM

I agree - your teacher sounds like he is very patient and pushing you just enough. :thumbsup:

Congratulations on your first road experience. Now you can settle down and not fret so much next time. ;):

ridingAK

07-11-2011, 04:40 PM

It won't be long and you'll be aiming for that puddle just because you like to splash!

Skotty

07-19-2011, 06:52 AM

This afternoon I had lesson number 9, it was fine & sunny which was nice. Started off with a few carpark drills (must remember to keep revs up & ride the clutch on u-turns). Then we headed out onto the back streets. Just going up around some little curves, intersections, a roundabout & then and just adding a little bit more on each trip, changing the direction at the T junction, In & out of carparks,over some speed bumps on an access road & so on.
I need to work on remembering my head checks, indicators on & off at the right times, lane positoning etc. I'm still very tense, but trying to relax my shoulders & do deep breaths etc. Managed to get up to about 45kmh I guess, but I'm kind of slow in my gearing up & down, so I need a fair gap between turns to get any speed:):.
I also need to work on making my stopping smoother. I haven't been using the front brake for long & its easy to be a little jerky with it. For some reason it seems stressful to be pulling up - i'm not sure why. Practice I guess, it's the whole process of indicating, braking & gearing down into first, clutch in, & braking to a stop, then left foot down only. I need to leave my right foot on the rear brake when stopped to pass the test, so I need to get used to it, but I think it makes me feel more uncertain when stopping. Just need practice!
Anyway, it all went OK, got a list of stuff I did wrong, but nothing too major & teacher thought I did OK. I wish I was progressing faster, but I find it pretty scary, so as long as I am progressing, I think I'm doing OK.

LiLiBug

07-19-2011, 07:04 AM

I started on a Rebel and loved it. For me, it was the perfect first bike. Forgiving, light, easy to ride. It was a great confidence builder.
If there's a Rebel calling your name, listen.
Good luck!

Can't recommend the 250 Rebel enough! It's nice and low to the ground so you don't have to worry about tipping over so much at slow speeds. Lots of fun to learn on. <3

+1 on the Rebel!

I have to say 9 years and several bikes later after having learned on a Rebel, my heart still skips a little at the thought of my little Rebel :cloud9:

It did so much for my confidence and riding ability that I really can't imagine recommending anything else!

:cloud9:

Luna Tique

07-19-2011, 07:33 AM

It won't be long and you'll be aiming for that puddle just because you like to splash!

That's right :thumbup:
Puddles are perfect play ground for those of us the only wash our bikes in the rain. :lol:

Astir

07-19-2011, 08:34 AM

ridingAK

07-19-2011, 09:26 AM

:iagree:

chienjouet

07-19-2011, 09:23 PM

I'm new too. It's so comforting to know that others have these little 'fear' bumps. It is a lot to keep in mind all at once, when stopping. I get overwhelmed from time to time, too.

It helps me to remember how terrified I was to actually sit on the bike and turn it on. Honestly, I thought I was going to throw up, I was so scared. And now I do it everyday and it doesn't scare me at all.

Hope all these maneuvers will eventually be as second nature as that.

Not yet. But, it will come.

I admire your attempts and celebrate your successes! :hug2:

Skotty

07-27-2011, 06:47 AM

Yesterday was lesson 10 - total of 10 hours bike time now, more or less. I had a couple of runs up & down the carpark to warm up, then it was out onto the road. Spent the time in a quiet residential neighbourhood, with stop signs, give way signs etc. It went OK, although of course there were some glitches.
I stalled twice, once at a stop sign on a slight slope, first time off complete flat ground. Didnt give it enough gas & stalled, got going the second time but was pretty wide on the turn. The other stall was getting the wrong gear on a give way, kind of bunny hoped & died. I still find that I get abit shaky each time something like that happens & it effects my gear changes etc
I need to work on getting my speed up, only getting to 40kph so far, smoother gear changes & front brakes & better control on turns - so most things! :shrug:
I think it is my tension that causes the jerky gear changes etc, I guess it'll just take time! On the bright side I did'nt do anything stupid, just newby stuff.

ImaSoftT

07-27-2011, 08:36 AM

:clapping: You are doing just fine and all of the glitches you mentioned will smooth out with practice. Keeping your head straight after a stall is as important as anything else and it sounds like you did just that http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif Road riding is a lot different from parking lot practice, but you will get use to it and then it will be smooth sailing, uh riding from then on.

Astir

07-27-2011, 09:42 AM

I hope you go back and re-read your posts because it sounds to me like you are making fabulous progress! :yahoo: thank you so much for checking in and letting us know how you are progressing. :thumbup:

Luna Tique

07-27-2011, 10:32 AM

Thanks for the update
You are doing terrific.I can tell by your post your confidence level is rising. :pompom:

VStar

07-27-2011, 10:04 PM

That sounds pretty much like how we learned to walk, and look at you now .. you can run. You're learning to ride, better in the 10th hour than the 3rd, lots of progress and fewer butterflies. Attgirl.

Skotty

08-03-2011, 10:01 AM

Yesterday was lesson 11, and yes - it was raining again! Very wet roads & several heavy showers during my lesson. Lesson went pretty much the same as last week - short warmup in the carpark then onto the road. I think I did a little better than last time, but it is an extremely slow process. My gear changes were a little smoother, and stress level seemed a little lower. Got up to 45kmh, which is fast enough in the residential streets, I just need to work on getting there a little faster!
I had one or two stalls when setting off from stop signs, and did some bunny hopping when I changed into first for a corner. I let the clutch out fully, instead of riding the friction zone, so it was a bit rough.
I need to work on anticipation & awareness of traffic. There were a few cars around, and also rubbish trucks, & I think I was erring too far on the side of caution, but practice & confidence will help with that. I'm still having to concentrate hard on counting gears & when to start braking etc etc. All stuff that is dead easy in a car, takes on a whole new meaning :):.
The wet weather wasn't a huge help to me, I had one little rear wheel slip under braking & found the road quite slippery underfoot when I was stopped but all in all it went OK.

ImaSoftT

08-03-2011, 10:20 AM

http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif Keep up the good work, you're doing great.

Cyclone67

08-03-2011, 11:20 AM

Luna Tique

08-04-2011, 05:43 AM

You're doing great. I think getting the opportunity to experience some bad weather is good while you're training. You get to learn how to deal with under the guidance of someone. And now it's one less new thing that you have to stress about!

I agree :thumbsup:and now you know what it feels like to have the rear end do a little shimmy. It makes the heart race a bit, the hair on the back of your neck stand up and let's you know you are alive.:ecstasy: (:redface1:Sorry I couldn't help myself)

On a more serious note It also helps you to understand and begin to feel how much back brake pressure you can apply before the rearend starts sliding.
You are doing great.:pompom:

By the way: Even seasoned riders stall their bike every once and awhile.;):

Skotty

08-09-2011, 09:51 AM

Ok, lesson 12 was yesterday & it wasn't raining! Road was abit puddly, but not actually raining at the time. Same deal short carpark warmup, then onto the suburban roads. We went across to a different area, but still reasonably quiet single lane streets. Left & right turns, stop & give way signs, parked cars etc. I was still feeling anxious before & during the lesson, but a little better than last time. Baby steps!
Gear changes were mostly smoother than last week, had a couple of times were I left the braking abit late, but not too bad. Mostly ended up in the gear I was hoping for. :):

Turning from a stop is still pretty tricky, as is heading off from the side of the road (after stopping to talk). Figured out it is because I'm angling in towards the curb, not pulling up parallel to it, which means I have to straighten up as I move off. This causes wobbling - specially as I'm between the instructors bike & the curb. I feel some pressure from the squeeziness, but it's getting better!

No stalling in this lesson, generally a little more comfortable. Still need to work on accelerating more briskly so I won't be holding up traffic too much.Also need to look further around on the U-turns, which should help me make the turn. I still find it really tricky to keep the throttle stable when doing U-turns to the right, which is the direction I need to go. Pulling that handlebar in toward me seems to make me change what my hand/wrist is doing too, and slack off the throttle.

ImaSoftT

08-09-2011, 10:12 AM

Sounds like things are starting to come together for you Skotty. Your practice/lesson time will be well worth the effort once you are on your own. Some of the things you mentioned will just need more saddle time to smooth out the rough edges. You are doing fantastic and soon those baby steps will become full fledged sprints. http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif

ridingAK

08-09-2011, 10:14 AM

I admire and envy your system for learning. It impresses me so much to know that by the time you get turned loose on your own, you will have ridden a lot of street miles and will know what you are doing and should be doing. So many folks in the U.S. pass the msf, immediately take to the streets and pose a danger to themselves and others as they learn by trial and error.

Skotty

08-09-2011, 10:29 AM

RAK, it does at least mean you should be under competent supervison until you are capable of riding in normal traffic etc, and not just out on your own. I was speaking to a lady at Harley Owners Group last night who has just passed her licence test, so she can now ride alone on her 250cc bike. She will have to do another test in 12 months on a bigger bike to go over 250cc. She has spent 12 months as a learner riding with her husband, and then had some professional lessons to refine her skills before her test. I'm kind of going the other way, starting with the professional, then hopefully will be able to ride with the boyfriend once I am reasonably capable to get more practice in. Having your partner teach you can lead to some relationship stress I believe!!

Astir

08-09-2011, 10:31 AM

Skotty, I had trouble with U-turns to the left because I couldn't reach the throttle well enough to control it with the bars turned. If that seems what you are experiencing, you may consider finding a way to either use bar backs, or even rotate your handle bars a bit back so you can reach better. (or hang in your closet to lenghten your arms? :rofl:)

Great going, and I can really tell your confidence is going up - and NO stalls? Fantastic!

Luna Tique

08-09-2011, 04:08 PM

Excellent job with no stalling :wootrock:

I admire and envy your system for learning. It impresses me so much to know that by the time you get turned loose on your own, you will have ridden a lot of street miles and will know what you are doing and should be doing. So many folks in the U.S. pass the msf, immediately take to the streets and pose a danger to themselves and others as they learn by trial and error.
I agree :thumbup:

Skotty

08-21-2011, 07:04 AM

Yesterday the boyfriend took me out on my bike for the first time!! Amazingly, it is 2 months since I rode the Virago for the first & only time. All my lessons are on the CB250, and the 2 bikes feel very different - riding position, clutch, etc. Turning form a stop is still abit of an issue, so I wobbled out of my driveway & down the road, took a little while to get both feet up.
We went around the corner to a small carpark so I could practice a little before getting out onto the roads. The carpark is sloping & has speed bumps, so not ideal :):. (also onlookers!). I stalled it & had to do my first hill start, not steep, but still! Had a fair bit of trouble with friction point & throttle control, just got to get used to it I think. Friction point is quite a long way out, and seems to have a small range between in & out. Had a couple of stalls, but went OK, except for some unexpected revving from time to time :D:.
After a few laps around I played follow the leaader around the suburbs for about an hour and a half. Bends, turns, up & down a few hills, lots of roundabouts & intersections. Got left behind a few times, as I am slow off the mark, so I wait for a BIG gap before going. Also need to slow well down in case I need to stop at give-ways, as it takes a while to get organised if you know what I mean. I'd rather asssume I'll have to stop & be ready for that, than have to jump on the brakes.
So there was alot of arm waving from boyfriend to try to get me to keep up, because my acceleration is still "sedate" :D: . I need to work on that, because otherwise I'll have traffic piling up behind me. But I did Ok once I got up to speed, went the fastest I have ever been, over 70 kmh!!
I'm still cautious, which I consider healthy :D:. Slow right down for corners, even if I know I won't need to stop, I'm not ready to go as fast cornering as the boyfriend does. He said that I'm turning the bike while it's upright, whereas he leans it around them. I think I'll work my way up gradually.
I had a bit of trouble feeling the gears at times also, sometimes it didn't seem to "click" down, but I ended up in first when stopped, although I wasn't sur ethat I had clicked through all the gears.
I'm hoping we'll ber able to get out more now, hoping for more fine weekends when both of us are free at the same time!!

ImaSoftT

08-21-2011, 08:22 AM

http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif So glad and your BF had a nice day to ride. Flip flopping between bikes can be confusing I would imagine, each bike has its own feel and rhythm, but it sounds like you made out fine. And it is comforting to hear that you ride with caution instead of throwing caution to the wind, much better to be safe than sorry. Hope you get another day real soon.

zee

08-21-2011, 09:55 AM

Sounds fantastic! Keep up the good work. :thumbup:

ridingAK

08-21-2011, 10:55 AM

That sounds wonderful! A new bike is expected to be a bit of a challenge so you did awesome!

indianscout

08-21-2011, 11:46 AM

Hey Skotty, sounds like your doing just fine. Once you build up your confidence a bit more you will discover that riding a bit faster will eliminate some of your troubles, but this is something that will come in due time. (Think of yourself as a spinning top, the slower you go the less balance you have.) You have come along way in the last few months and in a few more months you will be able to look back and see that much more difference. Yes, riding with your SO can be challenging sometimes. I know of a newbie rider who can not ride with her hubby as he gets too impatient causing her to get flustered and then things start to go bad from there. She is now riding with a neighbor who is much more patient with her and now she is making great progress. Baby steps is the key word here and your doing a great job, keep it up!

VStar

08-21-2011, 06:24 PM

Morning Skotty or Afternoon or Evening, maybe just G'Day ...Your ride sounds familiar, parts of it were the same for me yesterday. I'm usually ok with keeping up with Hubby but I definitely am slower at turning the corners and have been trying to figure out why. I've been paying attention and have concluded that I go slowly though the cornering because I want to be able to recover if it starts going south, sort of waiting for something to go wrong. I do make a proper turn, head up, looking in the right direction, stay in my lane but I don't blast through it or gear up until I know that I've negotiated the turn safely. Hubby tells me that I'm holding up traffic but they can't go faster then me, I refuse to be pushed, once around the corner, I move along quickly, I'm able to get up to speed smoothly and smartly at lights without stalling, that has improved a lot this season.
Sounds like your progressing at a good pace, building skill, ability and confidence and repsecting the road.

Skotty

08-24-2011, 08:23 AM

I had a good lesson yesterday, starting to get more relaxed I think. :):Starting to go on somewhat busier roads, and even went through some traffic lights (turning left which means I'm not turning across traffic.
We might start getting onto dual carriageways next lesson, gradually getting into more traffic & more complex situations. I still need to work on faster acceleration, although I do eventually get up to speed! I need to do it faster so that I don't have traffic banking up behind me. Also need to remember to make my headchecks obvious, so when I do go for my test the examiner riding behind me can see them. I'm hoping to get a bit more time on my bike now, I think more time riding will really help.

ridingAK

08-24-2011, 09:24 AM

:clapping:

Luna Tique

08-24-2011, 09:35 AM

Sounds like you are progressing very well.
Keep up the good work :pompom:

Skotty

08-31-2011, 09:44 AM

Another rainy lesson yesterday! We did loops around the suburb, left turns at traffic lights, using a merge lane, riding on a dual carriageway with more traffic than I'm used to. It all went pretty well, had to queue in traffic at one of the sets of lights & then move off & turn with traffic behind - a little more pressure I guess. Things to work on - making head checks obvious, increasing acceleration rate away from corners/stops, try to be a little less tentative in general. But instructor "doesn't want me to over compensate". I don't think I'm in too much danger of turning into a rev head! :): Hopefully I might bE able to get out on the weekend on MY bike with the boyfriend for a practice.

ImaSoftT

08-31-2011, 09:57 AM

:clapping:You are going to be an expert at riding in the rain. http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif Hope you and the BF can get out and have a nice dry sunny ride together.

Skotty

09-06-2011, 10:46 AM

Lesson number 15 today, nice sunny day, a little windy. We did basically the same as last week, looping around through traffic lights etc. Managed to get my acceleration going better, so I'm getting up to speed a bit quicker. I need to work on reading the situation better at intersections & lights. I am too tentative at the moment, so I stop when I don't need to (eg I think the traffic might come through & then it doesn't), just in case, and that could cause issues with following traffic. I think more practice is the key, as I am not confident yet with suddenly dropping another gear etc. I need to be planning things out, & I have a limited amount of ability to deal with changes in my plan! It's alot harder than driving my car, that's for sure!

Skotty

09-21-2011, 07:32 AM

Lesson 16 yesterday - I'm not sure if I'm the slowest learner around but it sure seems like baby steps! More work on just riding on the road yesterday, we went into a different area, which mean't we crossed the highway , rode on dual carriageway for a while, went through traffic lights & some roundabouts, rode some slightly hilly roads.

Stalled twice, once when we went up a hill, then had to stop at the top. It was flat just at the intersection, but I stopped abit short because the bike lost spped fatser than I expected & then I got a little flustered, think I left too much back brake when heading off. Other time was when I had to stop at a roundabout because of traffic, again, I was in second thinking I could go, then decided I better wait, stopped short of the line & then stalled when moving up to the line.

I've had about 18 hours total riding time, but I have trouble if I don't get to follow my plans, if that makes sense. So if I have to stop when I wasn't really expecting it (not emergancy stop, but just changed my mind at a giveway), I am unlikely to be able to gear down nice & quick. It just flusters me abit. Also the slow speed manouvres need work, I am finding it tricky to stop just in the right place, tend to be a bit jerky, and then stop short. I think it's just learning to judge speed/distance & the bikes reactions, as well as balancing it a low speed, getting the right gear & checking for traffic, then looking where I need to go!! Easy!!:D:

ImaSoftT

09-21-2011, 08:13 AM

You may not think so Skotty, but you're doing just fine, and the problems you are having is not because you are a slow learner. It takes quite a while to become really smooth at stopping and starting on a hill, some people struggle with it their entire riding career, so don't beat yourself up over it, just keep practicing you'll get there. And using the friction zone is also hard for some people, but some of that may be the bike you are ridding. The friction zone differs from bike to bike and when you change bikes you may find the new one is much easier to find the right balance for smooth no stall starts.

Not much I can say to help you with getting flustered when your plan changes, when it comes to bike ridding the plan is constantly changing, mainly because we have no control over 90% of the things that make up a ride. The only thing we can control is our own actions and the actions of the bike we are on, and then be prepared to adapt to or avoid everything else that is thrown our way.

So just keep taking those baby steps one at a time, you are doing great.http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif

zukilady

09-21-2011, 09:15 AM

And...you said you have had 18 hours of riding time. That is nothing. I promise you that the more time you spend on the bike, the easier it will become. You are doing great!

Luna Tique

09-21-2011, 09:21 AM

Everyone learns at a different speed.
18 hours is really not a lot of seat time.
It sounds like you know what your doing wrong each time so with continued practice you will continue to improve.
Enjoy yourself and keep racking up the miles.

Skotty

09-21-2011, 09:46 AM

Thanks ladies, I do value the support I get from you lot. On the plus side, there were no comments about needing to be faster to get up through the gears to cruising speed, so I think that is improving. I wish i could just go around the block on my own to practice, but not possible here, so i have to wait for a lesson or for boyfriend to supervise me. It's spring now, so I'm hoping to be able to get out a little more. I've had lessons in the rain, but boyfriend is not interested in wet weather riding if it can be avoided!
I got an email from my ex today to tell me our divorce has just come through, and although he left 18 months ago, it still shook me up. I guess I've been feeling tired & abit sad today, and it's reflected in my lesson report. I'll get there!

zukilady

09-21-2011, 10:03 AM

:hug2:

Astir

09-21-2011, 12:10 PM

:hug2:

opaque_machete

09-25-2011, 01:26 AM

I just found this thread, but, you are on the right track. Try to make a friend who may be able to match your schedule better than BF. (That is, if he doesn't mind.;):)

As for the ex..:hug2: :hug2: :hug2:

Skotty

09-26-2011, 09:12 PM

I've got another lesson this morning. And here's the forecast:

Showers, heavy at times with the risk of a squally thunderstorm and small hail,
easing in the evening. Cold, fresh and gusty W/SW winds.

Hasn't been too bad so far, but if it gets worse I'm thinking mostly carpark skills. I don't really fancy downpours & hail out on the road!

zukilady

09-26-2011, 09:23 PM

Where's your sense of adventure? :lol:

Astir

09-26-2011, 10:26 PM

Where's your sense of adventure? :lol:

I am a closer reach Skotty... :smack:

:rofl:

:hiding:

zukilady

09-27-2011, 06:11 AM

:lol:!

VStar

09-27-2011, 06:43 AM

Parking lot practice gets my vote, when you get cold, wet and miserable you don't want to be too far from home.

Skotty

09-27-2011, 07:28 AM

I am a closer reach Skotty... :smack:

Hehe, thanks Astir, couldn't quite reach from here :D:.

Well, thankfully the weather was kind to me today. Had heavy rain, wind and some hail during the morning, and in the afternoon, but my lesson was mostly dry, I think 2 showers & a bit of wind during the one hour ride. Must buy myself some wet weather pants. I borrow some from my teacher, I pull them up to just under my boobs & roll the top over a time or two & then they fit fine! Keep me pretty dry, so all good. I wore my gloves as well, in honour of the cold & wet. I've only worn them once before, I found it made things a little harder, so I've been slack about it, but really need to just get used to them, as I know it's safer.

My lesson went OK, left my indicator on twice, and need to take more care with road position. I get the same comments on what I'm not doing perfectly, but I am improving, making less mistakes. No comments on missing head checks today, so that was good, and no stalling either. We went along a busy strip of road next to a major shopping centre today, so had traffic lights, roundabouts & plenty of cars parked on the side of the road, as well as carpark entries etc. I find that new environments or an increase in "intensity" are fairly stressful, and then I leave on my indicator or something. My brain gets abit full :):.

So up & down the gears, corners, stopping, doing head checks, watching traffic & mirrors etc etc, a one hour lesson can be quite tiring!

Next lesson is next week, maybe get to ride this weekend, we'll see! The weather is pretty iffy at the moment, more like winter than spring!

Luna Tique

09-27-2011, 08:44 AM

I am a closer reach Skotty... :smack:

:rofl:

:hiding:

:rofl:

opaque_machete

09-27-2011, 02:13 PM

I'm so glad you are improving, Skotty. We knew you would. It just takes practice. Leaving your turn signal on is not the end of the world. It's not pulling out in front of a car, but it can cause confusion for the cars around you. My little XT likes his left turn signal on. I have to push the button at least three times to get it to go off. Crud in the switch, I guess. Keep practicing, you'll get it. Maybe practice while on the patio visualizing your turns with signal and turning it off. It's a matter of muscle memory. The more you can commit to habit, the less you have to think about it, the more you can concentrate on what's going on in front of you. :):

Here's to hoping you can get out this week and practice! :cheers:

Astir

09-27-2011, 06:40 PM

So glad the weather mostly cooperated! I have been caught in hail a few times - ouuucccchhh! Not fun at all.

Spring is coming for you!

zukilady

09-27-2011, 08:01 PM

And your progress vs. your chances to ride is really amazing!

Skotty

09-28-2011, 06:20 AM

Thanks for the encouragement girls :):. Leaving indicators on is an instant fail in the riding test here, so I need to get it well ingrained into my head! Of course it is an unsafe thing to do, since you're inviting cars to pull out in front of yoy because they think you're turning. The instructor suggested going through all the steps in my head as I go along - I'll be talking to myself soon:lol:. Basically any unsafe moves are likely to get me failed, they are keen to keep us safe.

Skotty

10-06-2011, 11:30 PM

Didn't get to ride on the weekend. I am looking forward to passing my test eventually, I would like to just be able to go out for a putter around on my own.

I think yesterday was lesson 18, I'm starting to lose track! I've just started full time work (was previously part-time, but now I'm divorced I need to earn more money :):). It's good for the pocket, but gives me less free time. So I had a lesson at 8am then went to work till 7pm, then home to feed my doggies & myself - long day!

My lesson went OK, no major errors, but started off pretty tense & teacher can see that. We were changing lanes on dual carriageways & turning right (across the traffic flow) at traffic lights, also merging. Changes always make me tense at first. No stalling, no indicators left on this time, and one head check not too great. Need to remember to set up earlier with indicators before lane change etc. I was tending to check mirrors, indicate, head check & move over, but I need to pause for 3 seconds or so after turning on the indicator.

I still can't do a U-turn tightly enough, I have trouble still maintaining the throttle position while the bars are turned sharply. I can't seem to pull my hand in towards me (going to the right) without changing my wrist angle. Also looking back over my shoulder while still travelling in a different direction is hard! Practice!!:):

zukilady

10-07-2011, 06:15 AM

Yep - practice! Sounds like your country has a very thorough training system, which is good!

Luna Tique

10-07-2011, 07:39 AM

Yep - practice! Sounds like your country has a very thorough training system, which is good!

I agree 100%

Skotty

10-09-2011, 09:41 AM

So today I went for a ride on my bike with the boyfriend leading. We ended up doing 90km all up. Suburban streets, dual carriageways, roundabouts, traffic lights, winding roads. Stalled it twice, and had one very jerky turn from a stop when the clutch lever slipped from my fingers, but made it around anyway. The clutch engages out near the end of it's movement, I'm going to try to adjust it closer in so I have better control.

Got another lecture about not keeping up, not doing the speed limit & not accelerating fast enough away from a stop. My speedo shows that I'm doing the limit, but he says I'm not. Of course, he is leading & is faster to get going than me (lots of experience & 1600cc Vs 250cc), so it will always be hard for me to catch up without speeding. He said I can ride OK, but need to use more throttle, and why aren't I doing what he tells me & accelerating harder. I said I'm trying & he said you just have to do it or people will be up your tail all the time. I thought I was doing pretty well, but obviously I have to do better. He also kind of implied I should be doing better after all the lessons I've had, which made me feel abit of a slow learner. My instructor hasn't been talking about faster acceleration away from a stop for a while, so I thought it was going Ok now.

ridingAK

10-09-2011, 10:16 AM

I'm going to be a bit harsh here, but your post makes me really angry. I apologize if my saying so hurts your feelings, but your boyfriend is acting like a jerk. You are doing very well. Your instructor thinks you are doing well. Your bike's speedo thinks you are doing well. The only one with issues is the guy who wants you to do it his way. His way may be right for him, but it is not right for you. He needs to get over himself and stop bringing you down. If he's worried about cars getting on your tail then he should let you lead while he follows to protect your backside. He should be riding as fast or as slow as you feel safe, and should definitely not be encouraging you to speed or denigrating you for not speeding.

RIDE YOUR OWN RIDE and if that means you don't ride with boyfriend, so be it. If he's going to encourage you to ride outside your comfort zone and the law you are better off without him.

Luna Tique

10-09-2011, 11:55 AM

phoenix63

10-09-2011, 12:01 PM

RetroRider81

10-09-2011, 12:05 PM

The group should only go as fast as its slowest rider.....and that applies in a group of 2 people. I agree 100% with what rAK said, you should be leading, and he should be following you, not only to protect you, but then he could be more helpful about letting you know- nicely- what you need to work on. I bet your instructor follows you a great deal of the time to do just that. You are doing great, don't ever feel that you are a "slow" learner...."slow" means something different to everyone. As long as you feel you are making progress, that you are safe on the road and you are enjoying yourself, thats all that matters. You are doing awesome!

Astir

10-09-2011, 01:38 PM

Oh Skotty! :hug2: You are doing awesome!! Don't let your BF make you second guess yourself. Your instructor would know better than anybody, and if he is satisfied then so should you.

Ride your own ride Skotty. :hug2:

ImaSoftT

10-09-2011, 03:57 PM

:iagree: Nothing I can add that hasn't already been said so well by others. Don't let anyone belittle your accomplishments. :hug2:

Dualsport Chic

10-09-2011, 04:35 PM

Scotty - you're doing great. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise - no matter who it is (with the exception of a certified instructor who is training you). I'm sorry your BF is putting unnecessary pressure on you as that is just not cool. Better to ride alone than with folks who try to make you go outside your comfort zone. Learning takes time - your BF should realize this and be more accomodating if he is to be the gentleman you deserve in your life.

MissusJ

10-09-2011, 07:04 PM

Also going to reiterate those sentiments. The whole point of you having an experienced rider with you is to make sure you don't do anything stupid so if that rider is encouraging you to ride outside your comfort zone then he is encouraging you to do something stupid.

Do you have a local bike club you could join where maybe folks other than the BF could go out with you? I found when learning my hubby, who is brill by the way, did exactly the opposite and tended to hold me back because he assumed that I would need more learning time. He has a point I tend to need more time because I have a condition where I fatigue easily, but in fact the having to second guess what he was doing made my learning more difficult. I found a local bike club, with plenty of female members, and went out with some of them.

They didn't have the same "concerns" that hubby had and lived and rode by the "ride to the slowest in the group mantra" they also let me ride wherever I needed to in the small groups we went out in, sometimes that was up front, others it was at the back. These girls are now some of my closest friends.

With their support I went from a scared, nervous, recently hedge-bound newbie to a confident rider who can keep up with most and out ride many - I NEVER expected that!

Whatever you do, don't let somebody else, who has NO training in training, tell you you aren't good enough. Motorcyclists represent a tiny minority on the roads and female motorcyclists are an even smaller sub group. Just getting on the bike is more than 90% of blokes will do so stand proud of your achievements. Your PROFESSIONALLY trained trainer is happy, trust his judgement. :thumbsup:

VStar

10-09-2011, 08:23 PM

Skotty, you have 1 instructor, he is the professional that you have engaged to teach you how to ride and handle a motorcycle, every one else is just free advise, often unsolicited.
My Hubby has been my biggest supporter and one of the safest, conservative riders I kow, but told me the same thing, not in a negative way, but concerned that my slow exceleration from a stop would put me in danger from an impatient driver. He was right in a way, but it wasn't the right strategy for me as a new and learning rider, I didn't have the confidence in my abilities to blast off from a stop or zoom down the road. As the months, hours and miles added up, I have better control and more skills, I'm much better at this and he has even mentioned the improvement.
I don't know your BF or how he presents his critiques but making you feel incompetent or inferior is the wrong way, besides being insensitive, it may be dangerous.
Believe in yourself, we do.

opaque_machete

10-09-2011, 08:27 PM

:iagree:

chienjouet

10-09-2011, 08:37 PM

Listen to these wise women, honey bun. They are right.

I still say, out loud, to my self in my helmet; "Ride your own ride", "Stay in your comfort zone", "Have fun". This is no race. When you're new, you go slower, if you have good sense, than when you've been riding for forever.

You don't have to listen to negative comments. They're just one persons opinion.

I tell my husband, if he's going faster than I want to, I'll meet him up at the next stop or the next little city. I'm comfortable on the freeway at 65 MPH, the speed limit. He's usually at 70-75MPH. Bye. Not for me.

I get to ride this motorcycle the way I want to. I'm an intelligent adult and it's up to me, to keep me safe. Or at least, if I'm going to do something stupid, let it be on me, not because I was following someone else's advice, that I didn't agree with!

You are doing awesome!! Listen to your own voice! And just ignore what other's say, if it's not helping you.

Skotty

10-10-2011, 10:29 AM

I love this site:):. I come on here & post about something that has made me feel abit down, and I get all this support from you lovely ladies on the other side of the world. It makes me feel really :hug2:. We had our HOG chapter meeting tonight & a couple of people were asking how my learning was going. I said slowly & then said how Andrew & I had gone out & he was commenting about my lack of acceleration. General comment was that it'll come with time, & Andrew did say he has "no patience" so is not the best teacher. So I felt better that he owned up to that, & I will take his comments on board, because he is correct that I need to make sure (if possible) that I do not hinder the traffic flow. But - I'm doing OK! One guy there spent a week running beside the bike each day before his wife would ride alone in first gear. She took a year of lessons & practice, but now has her licence & is looking great!

ImaSoftT

10-10-2011, 11:08 AM

Glad to hear your Andrew knows and has acknowledged that he isn't a candidate for Teacher of the Year, so that gets him one inch further from the hot seat. Perhaps there is someone in your HOG group that has a little more "patience" that can ride with you now and then. The feedback from your group about things coming with time was half right, it does take time, but that time has to be spent in the saddle. Your confidence will grow a little bit each and every time you ride your bike, so ride as often as you can. And most importantly, BELIEVE IN YOURSELF, all the lessons and practice in the world won't do you any good if you get down on yourself. Every time you get geared up to ride, before you leave your room, look in the mirror and say out loud, "I can do this, I am going to (accelerate faster, turn sharper, stop quicker, whatever) today and I am going to have fun doing it. I am Queen of the Road and I rule this bike. :yahoo:" Then go out and have a great day riding.

chienjouet

10-11-2011, 02:40 AM

I love this site, too. Awesome women here. Great, wise advice given with love and inspiration.

You just can't beat it.

opaque_machete

10-11-2011, 12:08 PM

:iagree: +1000

phoenix63

10-11-2011, 11:30 PM

I love this site... and everyone on it. It's such a gift to be part of a supportive, encouraging, kick @ss INTERNATIONAL community of riders.

TWF RULES!

Skotty

10-20-2011, 10:21 AM

Another lesson today, nice fine weather, so that was good. Managed to get my o-turns a little tighter today, then out onto the roads. Working on dual carriageways, right & left turns & general traffic & intersections. All went ok, one incidence of leaving my indicator on, and AGAIN - need to work on increasing speed off the mark at intersections. It's pretty much the case that when there's alot else to think about, then my throttle hand gets a bit "retarded". Something to work on next time!

opaque_machete

10-20-2011, 10:56 PM

It's pretty much the case that when there's alot else to think about, then my throttle hand gets a bit "retarded". Something to work on next time!

Mine is just the opposite. When I'm distracted, it gets excited and I find the throttle open up. Good thing my left hand knows what my right hand is doing even if my brain is clueless. :lol: If they ever get together, I'm sunk!

ImaSoftT

10-20-2011, 11:29 PM

:lol:

Luna Tique

10-21-2011, 08:56 AM

:lol:

Skotty

10-26-2011, 07:10 AM

Lesson number 20 today - I should get frequent learner points or something! The forecast was for rain increasing & chance of a storm, but I managed to stay dry, although the roads were a little wet. I felt pretty good at the end of the lesson. We rode through a few intersections & traffic lights to get to a sloping piece of road & practice hill starts. That went pretty well, I did 5 hill starts along the road, it's a good spot to do it as it gets a little steeper as you move along. A little wobbly on one take-off, but no rollbacks or stalls so that was good. Did the official hill park too - it's quite complex to be test worthy!
After that we rode to another street to practice O-turns on the road. I've been doing them in the carpark, so no curbs to worry about. This was a wide road, as I progress we can move along as it narrows abit further on. That went OK too, went over the curb once, but improved with a few goes. So all in all a good lesson!:):

Luna Tique

10-26-2011, 07:36 AM

Sounds like you are doing ( in my best Tony the tiger voice) :D:
GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRReat.
:wootrock:

ImaSoftT

10-26-2011, 08:51 AM

Sounds like you are doing ( in my best Tony the tiger voice) :D:
GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRReat.
:wootrock:

:iagree:

ridingAK

10-26-2011, 09:39 AM

Awesome!

KansasKawboy

10-26-2011, 01:48 PM

:wootrock:

opaque_machete

10-26-2011, 06:26 PM

Great job! You'll nail it yet.

phoenix63

10-27-2011, 11:24 PM

Fantastic job, Skotty! You're doing awesome!

:wootrock:

Skotty

10-28-2011, 04:28 AM

:mad: Well after a good lesson on Wednesday, boyfriend & I went for a ride today. God, I feel like an idiot. No disasters, but I was so clumsy with the clutch, I stalled it several times(always someone behind me), had a few more jerky take offs, and got in neutral instead of first several times.:(: I felt like a fool.
BF dropped me at my house & I stalled again on the driveway & turned & said "I'm having a bad day". He just waved me past into my carport & rode off home. I'm sure he's going to give me the whole "you have to get going faster...people will run up your arse...blah, blah, blah". The virago clutch engages right out away from the handlebar grip, and seems to be pretty much either on or off, so it's really easy to go from clutch in to fully out in about half an inch of travel it seems like. I had gloves on also, which probably made it worse, as I have had a bad habit on not wearing any.
The CB250 I do lessons on has a fairly wide friction zone, so you can adjust how much the clutch is biting for low speed manouvreing, but I haven't got the hang of this one yet. This ride was worse than the last one, I felt like a real git, and I'm not looking forward to the criticism that I'm sure is coming.

Luna Tique

10-28-2011, 07:45 AM

You already know what you were doing wrong. That is a HUGE part to improving.

If your boy friend wants to calmly critique the day that is one thing:wootrock: if he is going to just work on distroying your confidence that is an entirely different thing. :protest:

You could always grab the quote made famous by George of Seinfeld when he starts.
"Talk to the hand" ( translation "be quiet, you’re killin’ me, I’ve heard it all before! " ) :D:

ImaSoftT

10-28-2011, 08:25 AM

Skotty you might try calling your local dealership or bike repair shop and see if they can adjust the clutch so it has a larger friction zone. When I bought my bike they had work on my lever and it made a world of difference. And if nothing can be done for it then the only thing to do is practice, practice, practice until you get the feel of the zone on this bike.

Taking your lessons on one bike and then ridding another can mess with your auto-reflects, your body is riding one bike and your mind is on the other. Would it be possible to take your lessons on this bike?

Hang in there you are doing great :hug2:

zukilady

10-28-2011, 08:38 AM

Yes, do hang in there! Switching bikes while learning must indeed make it difficult to progress. You really are doing great. :hug2:

Cyclone67

10-28-2011, 06:06 PM

I would definitely look into adjusting the clutch!! Bet it is a easy fix and that would make a world of difference.

Oh, and great job on starting to wear the gloves! You'll get used to them and they'll get more comfy as they break in...

FutureDrJames

10-28-2011, 06:35 PM

You've already received a lot of support from this lovely community, but you're getting mine, too. :):

+1 to the advice on adjusting the lever, if possible. Cars come with numerous frobs to adjust the seat, the mirrors, the this-that, and yet bikes are one-size-fits-the-middle. Riding is too much fun, and your comfort and happiness too important, to let a ferrous disk and aluminum lever stand in the way.

The whole "drive faster so you don't get rear-ended" thing. Sure, it's natural. I see how people drive in San Francisco. I see how I drive. I was quite afraid of getting rear-ended. But in America at least, the #1 cause of serious motorcycle crashes is unprotected left turns, not rear-ending. I don't know if this holds for roads in Oz, but the same principle applies: the least skilled driver on the road can still slam on the brakes.

TW200, my wife, will tell you I'm excessively concerned with being courteous and not inconveniencing other drivers. I'm less so on the motorcycle now. Who cares if someone gets a little slowed up behind you? You say "please" and "thank you", you hold doors for people -- you deserve to withdraw a little karma from the bank to ride your own ride and ride it safely.

I don't want to pick on your beau too much, but here I agree with the ladies. He should save his criticism. He needs to be in the right mind set on your rides together, and he needs to stop reinforcing that he's already skilled at something you're now learning how to do.

If you still feel bad about stalling in front of traffic, consider this. When my mother was still new to driving stick-shift, on hills she would deliberately roll back until she came to rest against the car behind her. Then she didn't need to worry about the breaks. You're having much less of an impact. :D:

Skotty

10-28-2011, 10:15 PM

OK guys - number 1 - I love you guys, all so supportive, it's wonderful :hug2:.

Number 2 - did the BF a disservice I guess, when I saw him last night, the days ride was not mentioned at all. Possibly he knew that I was already well aware of the issues so he didn't feel the need to mention it. He's gone away for a few days - got a free work trip to the Melbourne Cup! - so when he's home I might bring up the topic.

Online research informs me that this is a well known "feature" of the Virago 250, very small friction zone, well out from the bars. There is screw nuts to adjust the free play of the lever, I don't know if that makes the friction zone smaller by moving the free play into it, or if it just moves the functionality back towrads the grip ( did that make any sense at all?). Certainly I can speak to the dealership at least.

I am thinking I might sit on the bike on my verandah this weekend, and just play with the clutch/friction zone. Try to learn it abit better. I have the free play instructions, so I could have a look at that.

I think trying to get away quickly from a standstill I was releasing the clutch too fast & stalling, or jerking if using more throttle. The gloves certainly don't help with the sensation either. And then it got worse because I got more stressed each time. I have to say, on a duall carriageway, why would you stop behind the biker with the giant fluoro vest with "L" on it if the other lane is free? But they do, so I guess they're choosing to be held up!

Oh, and FDJames - your mum sounds awesome! Here it's the right turns that take you across the opposing traffic, but yes, they are a danger zone.

ImaSoftT

10-28-2011, 10:43 PM

I am thinking I might sit on the bike on my verandah this weekend, and just play with the clutch/friction zone. Try to learn it abit better. I have the free play instructions, so I could have a look at that.

The gloves certainly don't help with the sensation either.

Wear your gloves when you practice that will help you to get use to them. I had the same feeling about gloves before this TWF-ATGATT bunch got a hold of me :lol: . Also once you are comfortable with your bike you will be able to feel the zone with your whole body not just your hands, and soon you will get so you sense the zone more than feel it. (Don't tell the ATGATT police, but I still like my thin leather half fingered gloves the best though .:hiding:)

opaque_machete

10-29-2011, 12:49 AM

Hey Skotty. Sounds like you are doing fine to me. I have been in the same situation trying to learn on two different bikes. It doesn't work very well. I kept going back and forth between a Ninja 250 (sportish) and an XT 225 (dual-sport). I kept dropping both of them. :gaah:

As for being rear-ended, here's one for you. I came to a stop at a stop sign, going downhill, and proceeded to drop the bike. :nono: Left me sitting on the sidewalk with a line of cars behind me. The chick immediately behind me turned on her e-blinkers and patiently waited for me and a guy coming the other direction, who had sweetly stopped to help me, pick it up. Talk about embarrassing!! :hiding: :lol: I only rode the ninja one more time before I made the hubby fix my XT. It's fixed now and I parked the ninja. Hopefully, forever! :lol:

Alcyone

10-29-2011, 09:19 PM

The virago clutch and the V-Star 650 clutch design must be the similar because I have that same lack of friction zone. Actually, I have more of a friction point. I purchased the Clevver (a modified OEM handle which alters where the cable bushing sits) which helped the problem some, and also purchased the Seritec clutch mod but have not yet taken the time to install it (description here http://theshortwomansvstar.blogspot.com/2011/01/seritec-clutch-mod.html). Although the Virago and V-Star are different models, maybe somewhere on the wide wide interwebs you can find (or create!!!!) a similar mod for your Virago.

It was super apparent to me the other day when I took the hubby's V-star 1100 out for a ride. It took me no time at all to adjust to his clutch but when I switched back over to my bike for the day's riding it took me several miles to readjust to my clutch.

However, if it makes you feel a bit better, even if you don't modify the clutch to give yourself more friction zone you WILL learn to use your clutch. I found it really helpful to find long lonely straight roads and try to roll as slow as I could for as long as I could. It really helped teach my hand where my friction point was located.

CgrGrl

10-29-2011, 10:41 PM

You are right about the friction zones on the V Stars. I have a 250 and have pretty much given up on having a friction zone. I too have a friction point that's not always easy to find. Because of this, my throttle control at low speeds is getting pretty good.

Skotty

11-23-2011, 01:27 AM

Just realised I have had 3 lessons since I last wrote, haven't been out on my own bike though. We are working on gradually tightening up my O-turns to test level. It raises the pressure when the curbs get taller, that's for sure. Also looking again at quick stops, and general riding, road positioning, head checks etc etc etc. Doing pretty well with road checks as I pass, and shoulder checks before moving, and ususally managing to be in first gear as I come to a stop. These are all things I have to get right to get my licence, but I feel like I am gradually improving, it's just a glacial process, 23 lessons so far :lol:
Today we have had the first summery day, so it was 33 C (91 F) while we were riding. I could feel it by the end of my hour, that's for sure. I have a mesh jacket, but it does make you wonder why the gear is easiest to get in black! I bought my own helmet now, it's an open face (3/4?) with a visor. White with a silver stripe, so it's a cooler colour at least & more visible I believe. I am still putting on my gloves, I bought a pair that are supposed to be cooler than my waterproof ones, but they're still hot. Maybe a mesh/perforated pair next. I think I'll end up with a collection. :):

VStar

11-23-2011, 06:13 AM

Morning or Afternoon Skotty, I found a good pair of perforated leather gloves for warm weather riding, they do make a difference. They weren't expensive, about $27.00 which I thought was reasonable, and those little holes do let in air as you ride.

Luna Tique

11-23-2011, 07:38 AM

I think I'll end up with a collection. :):

YES you most likely will! :lol:

ridingAK

11-23-2011, 09:28 AM

When it is really hot having a damp shirt will really cool you down. I love the LD Comfort pants Nut and I got, and I think before we do any serious hot weather riding we will get the shirt as well. You can get a similar effect though from wearing and dampening a long sleeve shirt just before you put on your jacket.

Skotty

12-07-2011, 04:48 AM

Another lesson today, after a two week break. And again my "O-turns" have fallen apart. :grump:. Just couldn't get them going in the narrow street at all, had to go back to the wider area & work along there for a while. I'm turning to the right, so my throttle hand is pulled in close to me & I find it very hard to keep the throttle set in one position, which I need to figure out, so I can maintain steady speed/drive in the turns. I get tense & that makes it worse as it is harder to keep everything smooth & balanced when tense. Instructor just says we'll keep practicing till it comes together, and also that it is a hard part of the test. :): I do agree with that!
My road riding was generally OK, I think it gradually gets better with practice, like most things I guess.

ridingAK

12-07-2011, 10:06 AM

Don't forget too, that although it doesn't feel long, two weeks is a lot of time off the bike while you are learning. Your skills will get sloppy but should come back much easier than when you were learning them for the first time. :):

Skotty

12-11-2011, 08:45 AM

Went for a ride today on my Virago. Boyfriend & I rode to my sisters house to meet my family for lunch, we did 115km all up. We covered some suburban streets, some winding roads & a stretch of highway - 100kmph zone. I was in front most of the way, I didn't get any comments about not being fast enough yet, so maybe that's improved. I got up to 90kmph on the highway, which felt fast enough for me. The 250 buzzes along, there's quite abit of vibration in the handlebars & foot pegs at that speed.
My sisters house has a long gravel driveway which was a first for me. I stayed in first gear & just trundled along carefully & it was OK. I did duck walk for a while when we were leaving until I got going along. I'd rather paddle my feet abit than fall over on the gravel, that's for sure.
When we got home the boyfriend asked how I thought the ride went & I said I thought I did OK. He said I need to get my clutch control better & give it more revs when I start off, as I tend to be "walking" it at times, as I am going abit too slow for a little way. He's right, the clutch engages way out & my control is not very good yet. If my throttle is too low then I'll be slow & abit unstable & want to "walk" it, but other times I have a bit too fast take off (more throttle but clutch not smooth I think) & it's jerky.
On the plus side I didn't stall today, I had one time of stopping in neutral instead of first, and one time I didn't change up firmly enough & went into neutral instead of second. These are the reasons I make sure I have a lovely big gap in traffic before I pull out!! Boyfriend suggested sitting on the bike on my back verandah & just practising the clutch control starting off over & over, try to get it to sink in. He was pleased that I spotted a big lizard that ran across the road ahead of us, he thought it was good that I noticed it.
I do much better on the Honda I do lessons on, I have had alot more time on that bike.

ridingAK

12-11-2011, 09:32 AM

It sounds like you did really well, especially being able to handle the gravel drive! Good for you!

Practicing the clutch on the Virago is a very good idea, since all bikes feel different, and since you aren't able to practice riding it as often as you'd like. Besides, sitting on the bike is just fun!

indianscout

12-11-2011, 02:52 PM

The biggest hurtle for most is that they don't give it enough throttle when taking off just like you say you do. Put together a mental list to go though everytime and before long you won't even have to think about it as it will become second nature for you. Sounds like your getting the hang of it and it won't be long before your giving a few pointers to another new rider. Keep up the good work!!

Luna Tique

12-12-2011, 05:29 AM

:redface1: I miss a gear every once and awhile. It happens. :shrug:

All in all I can tell you are more confident and improving nicely. A gravel driveway was a nice challenge to throw into the mix for your ride. Good job.

Besides, sitting on the bike is just fun!

I have been know to head down to the BatCave sit on my bike and make vrooom vroom sounds when I am desperate for some saddle time.:D:

Skotty

12-18-2011, 06:32 AM

I had another lesson a few days ago, which went OK. We are going to various streets to practice my o-turns in different environments. I have to get comfortable & consistent with them.
Today I rode my own bike, we did 135km. We went with a small group from our HOG chapter, which was pretty intimidating. There were 8 other bikes, I was the only learner & the only female along. I rode at the back, with one bike behind me to be tail-end Charlie. I tried to concentrate on keeping up, but maintaining a good distance from the bike ahead (3 seconds). Also paying attention to my road position, indicators, road checks etc etc. Riding my own ride. The guys were good, they left me plenty of space.
We met up at a carpark then rode to a beachfront cafe for brunch, then north along the coast to get a drink in the busy port of Fremantle, then from there home.
I did better with my clutch control mostly, but stalled once when I tried to start off in 2nd gear. I had to stop & then start again straight away & did not change down. I also had an incident when we left the 2nd drink stop. I turned out onto the road & just about lost it. :scared: I had too much throttle & I think I let go of the clutch suddenly as I bumped off the curb. I went wide & bumped along the curb of the centre strip & scared myself, but luckily managed to keep it together & keep going. It was like my hands just froze, and I could only steer, not pull the clutch in, or brake or anything.:confused: So that was abit embarrassing, I was going fine most of the ride & then after a break - wham! I was lucky to not fall off.I t wasn't too long after that that I stalled it. It is a very busy area, lots of traffic & pedestrians, lights, round-abouts, zebra crossings etc etc. So there was alot of pressure I guess, but I survived it. Too much pressure - I don't know. I had to pay attention all the time & it was tiring, but I guess the way to learn is to do, up to a certain point.
I will definately have to try to get the clutch point sorted out. It's only the ends of my fingers that have any controlm of the clutch, & I think it's just too easy to slip & let go too suddenly, which then makes things very jerky.
To round things off, I was parking the bike on my back verandah & pushed back too far & bumped the tail light, of course I put a little hole in the plastic. Maybe I can glue the little piece back? or I'll be buying a new cover. :mad:

ridingAK

12-18-2011, 10:24 AM

Please tell me you were only drinking soda when you stopped. Even the slightest amount of alcohol can have an impact on fine motor control, especially when the movements are still unfamiliar to you. I enjoy a drink as much as anyone, but I will not ride the same day after even one drink.

Regardless, little mistakes happen. Don't expect to be consistently perfect since you will only be setting yourself up for disappointment. As you ride and your skills improve the mistakes will become fewer, and more importantly you will learn to compensate quickly enough that no one other than yourself even knows you made a mistake.

I superglued my turn signal cover after it had a piece broken off in our garage. That was at least a year ago and it has held up just fine.

demenshea

12-18-2011, 11:04 AM

I tried to concentrate on keeping up, but maintaining a good distance from the bike ahead (3 seconds). Also paying attention to my road position, indicators, road checks etc etc. Riding my own ride. The guys were good, they left me plenty of space.

Hey Skotty,
These are the words that cement why I believe that anyone new to riding should NOT ride in a group. You say that you are riding your own ride, however concentrating on "keeping up" is a contradiction to that statement.

I am not lecturing here, but until you are confident enough in your riding skills, riding with groups only exacerbates and establishes bad riding habits. It's like being on stage without your script. Riding in groups can be fun, but it can also be daunting, especially if you are riding with folks that have much better skill set.

Do you have a female riding buddy, someone with more experience that you have? I believe that is a wonderful way to learn and with much less pressure than riding in a group.

I and others here, want to see you stay safe and have year of riding in your future. :hug2:

Skotty

12-18-2011, 10:24 PM

Please tell me you were only drinking soda when you stopped. .
Yes indeed. I had tea with my brunch, and lemon soda at the afternoon stop. :): As a learner I have to have a zero blood alcohol, but I would not have a drink anyway. I need all my wits about me.

Skotty

12-18-2011, 10:45 PM

Hey Skotty,
These are the words that cement why I believe that anyone new to riding should NOT ride in a group. You say that you are riding your own ride, however concentrating on "keeping up" is a contradiction to that statement.

Do you have a female riding buddy, someone with more experience that you have? I believe that is a wonderful way to learn and with much less pressure than riding in a group.

I and others here, want to see you stay safe and have year of riding in your future. :hug2:

Thanks Demenshea. I totally get what you're saying about the group riding. I did make a conscious effort to try to avoid being sucked into the "keep up at all costs' mentality. My partner was leading and took it more cruisy than normal for my sake. It did mean that me & my shadow got left behind at a couple of intersections & lights, since I waited till I was happy to proceed, rather than rushing to keep up. The rest of the group would dawdle a little to allow catching up time. I won't speed to catch up, and I slow down for bends etc if I need to.
I have no intentions of going on any of the larger group rides. This one was an "unofficial" HOG ride. Most of their rides there will be 20 - 40 bikes & no way I want to be in amongst that! :D:
I don't have any female riding buddys to go out with, but we may be able to hook up with another couple where the lady is a learner or newly licenced now & then. Taking my time & being careful how far I push myself are important here.

Skotty

01-02-2012, 09:31 AM

Got out for a ride this afternoon, finally had free time when it wasn't baking hot, only 31 C today. We went around a loop that went through some curvy hill roads around here, including down the ZigZag. This is a road that used to be a train line up the side of the hill, so it has a series of very tight turns where the trains used to shunt onto the next leg. It's one way - downhill only, although sometimes crazy people ride bicycles up it! First gear, rear brake, friction zone territory for me. I was very careful & made it without having to put down feet etc.
I have tried to wind in the friction point & think it made things easier for me. Had a couple of moments getting neutral by mistake & having to shift again quickly, but no stalling & no crazy leaping forward out of control like the last ride. A couple of gentle hill starts where I felt abit quick as I turned after leaving the stop sign, but all under control. Having to use a little extra throttle because of the hill I guess, I end up moving a little quicker than I'm used to so far.
The roads we went on are popular with bikes & we were followed for a little while by a sports bike. I saw in my mirror as he overtook my partner, so I moved over in my lane to allow him past easily - he gave a thumbs up as he went by - that was nice.

ImaSoftT

01-02-2012, 09:55 AM

Sounds like things are starting to come together for you Skotty.http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif

PaintedMoon

01-02-2012, 06:39 PM

I learned on a Yamaha Virago 750. Worked great!

Ciao, Moon

Astir

01-02-2012, 07:35 PM

Hey Skotty!! So glad you haven't forgotten to let us know how you are doing! Going back and reading your first post, compare to this one - you are doing fantastic!! :wootrock:

Skotty

01-04-2012, 12:55 AM

Had my regular lesson today, it's been 3 weeks since last time. It went pretty well, a ride around, then O-turns & quick stops. I made a few little slip ups, shoulder checks not clear enough etc, & my O-turns are still unreliable. I was feeling pretty tired - we had very high winds & thunder last night, so didn't sleep well.
It stayed very gusty this morning too - made riding more interesting, also twigs & honky nuts on the roads to look out for. :):

Luna Tique

01-04-2012, 07:14 AM

Sounds like things are starting to come together for you Skotty.http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/images/smilies/TwoThumbs%20Up.gif

Yes it does. :pompom:

Astir

01-04-2012, 10:58 AM

What is a honky nut Skotty? (I have a vision, but I am 100% certain it isn't what you are referring to. :lol:)

ridingAK

01-04-2012, 11:24 AM

What is a honky nut Skotty? (I have a vision, but I am 100% certain it isn't what you are referring to. :lol:)

:omg: :rofl:

ImaSoftT

01-04-2012, 12:09 PM

:rofl: Whatever could you be thinking Astir?

Skotty

01-04-2012, 09:14 PM

What is a honky nut Skotty? (I have a vision, but I am 100% certain it isn't what you are referring to. :lol:)

You guys!!!:lol:

A honky nut comes off a gum (eucalypt) tree and is a roundish nut about an inch or a little larger across. Some types of large parrrots bite them open to get at the seeds inside. You can really feel it as you ride over them at slow speed. Black cockatoos, which are very large & noisy, love to have parties & throw loads of nuts & twigs down onto the road/roof/etc etc

Astir

01-04-2012, 10:06 PM

Oh interesting. Can people eat them? An inch or larger would be quite noticeable on the bike - yikes!

Skotty

01-05-2012, 04:58 AM

Oh interesting. Can people eat them? An inch or larger would be quite noticeable on the bike - yikes!

No - only eaten by large parrots as far as I know. They are very tough, it takes a very strong beak to bite into them. You can certainly feel them under your tyres, & if you're travelling faster they can kind of "ping" out as you go over them.

Skotty

02-01-2012, 05:29 AM

Another lesson today, my last one was on the 12th, so I had a couple of weeks off. Back working on the O-turns & quick stops. I need to get a bit shorter on the stops & be going slightly faster, so work to do there. Left my indicator on once, which is an instant fail on the test.
Otherwise not too bad, but I'm starting to wonder if I'll ever get there, it's been a hard learning curve. I hear about people who pick it up easily, but I'm sure not one of them. I only ride once a week if I'm lucky & that does make it harder I think. I got my little dog Rolli's ashes back this morning, so I was feeling sad before I went out & it's been very hot here recently which does not help matters.
Just need to keep practicing whenI can, I wish I could ride on my own, just around the block.

sweptwingnut

02-01-2012, 06:47 AM

Just keep plugging away at it and it will all work out. In the meantime, Look out for Tropical Cyclone Iggy.

Skotty

02-15-2012, 10:14 AM

And another lesson today. We ride for about 10 minutes in normal traffic - dual lanes, stop signs, traffic lights etc to get to a quiet street to practice my quick stops & O turns. Practice that for half an hour or so & then ride back. Gradually getting better, although to pass the test I still need improvement. My stopping distance is not short enought yet, I have to learn how much I can squeeze the brake to stop fast enough, but not lock up either wheel. As I get better we increase the speed, I have to be able to do it at 50kmph for the test.
I stalled once today - the lights changed & the car in front moved off just exactly as I stopped. I tried to take off a little too quick & didn't have enough throttle. Restarted Ok & got going pretty quick. It's those unexpected situations that I don't have the muscle memory to deal with yet, like that & like suddenly having to stop at an intersection because of a change in traffic. I'm very cautious at give way signs because I know I still find it hard if I don't have a plan in place for what I'm doing.

Luna Tique

02-15-2012, 06:17 PM

Every time you throw your leg over the seat you are improving, and for the record I stall mine every now and then.;):

Abosit

02-15-2012, 07:51 PM

I learned to ride in a commotion of traffic, like you.
One thing I said to myself if I stalled the bike was, stay calm and let them wait. Everybody has had at one point a beginners mishaps.
Eventually it will come and because you learn in this environment you will be ready for all
kind of traffic.
Patience and practice makes the master.
With your kind of dedication, you will pass your test with no problems.

VStar

02-15-2012, 09:12 PM

Sounds like a good session and that's how you should feel at the end of each one. If things are not going as planned, before you get too frustrated and upset, switch to something you do well before you finish for the day, that's how it worked for me and I usually smiled when I went to sleep.

mel 67

02-17-2012, 01:32 AM

hi, im currently a learner my self and im riding a 250 cruiser i have found it to be very easy to learn on and forgiving if i happen to take off in the wrong gear lol , i have a yamaha 250 xvs dragstar alot like a virago but slighty different to look at , have been learning on this bike for around 6 months and i have just booked in to do my provisional test on my bike , my hubby down loaded the test layout from transport site for me and marked it out for me to practice and i found that my bike handled it very well , little cruisers are nimble and allow tight cornering at very low speeds apparently these stlyes of bikes are classed as very learner friendly and i would have to agree, cheers hope it all goes well for you...

Skotty

02-19-2012, 09:02 AM

Hey, Hi Mel67, another Aussie! I own a 2008 V-star (virago), apparently they stopped calling them virago that year, all abit confusing. However I am doing my lessons on a Honda CB250 & have alot more time on that than on my own bike. I like the virago, but need more practice, it's just hard to get the time as I have to be shadowed by a licensed rider. I had some trouble with the clutch friction point being way out & very tricky, but I have moved it closer in so I have more free play now. I find it interesting how different the licensing laws are in the different states. Hope your tests all go well!

crystal33

02-20-2012, 04:21 PM

Hi Mel & Skotty - from another Aussie. And Mel - another Tasmanian, I thought I was the only one lol. I am learning too - got my "L's last week. Ride a VTR250 Honda. My husband has a bike too - decided to have a go at my dream as well Mel. Except I waited until I was the wrong side of 50 to do it :rofl: I'll wave if I see a V-star .

Scooterpie

02-22-2012, 01:25 AM

Skotty - Persistence and practice. I used to get what I like to call 'throttle anxiety' I would be stopped and get fixated on the get going part and would stall the bike. When you are stressing take a deep breath and believe in yourself. You can do it. When I get stressed out when learning a new technique or practicing an old one I usually talk myself through it, the beauty of a fullface helmet is that no sees you talking to yourself or hears what you are saying.

When I was in the L-phase last fall my hubby took me out for a rides and hill starts were my thing where I would get anxious and end up stalling. He was always behind me and would turn and make eye contact with the driver behind him and just give them a little wave. Folks usually chilled at that and instantly knew I was a beginner. I would relax then because he was my buffer and helped me gain control of the situation. I think for motorcyclists the fear of losing control of the forces around us in our environment is very scary, it's funny because in reality we have no control over others.

Read everything you can get your hands on that helps too. Sometimes I was over thinking what I was doing and sometimes you just have to trust yourself enough and not over think it and just do it. I have been riding for 13 months now, started on 50cc scooter and then moved onto a Honda CM450 and Honda Shadow VT500. I commute everyday to and from work on a bike all weather and the more you ride the more proficient you become and that is where your skill level and confidence grow. I practice emergency stops, friction zone skills, figure 8's, straight line riding, and u-turns. I try to get out minimum once a week in the parking lot and as a result I feel more comfortable when riding. I still have a lot of learning to do. You will get there, we were all where you are at one point. Just think of all the wonderful things that you do well on your bike. I am rooting for ya, one newb to another! :pompom:

mel 67

02-28-2012, 01:07 AM

hi scotty and crystal33 great to see fellow aussies and tasmanian's on here, i love my v-star is a 2001 dragstar, they dont make them any more. Here in tassie we dont have to have a rider with us we just get out and go for it, which i have to wait till april to finish becaus they are fully booked out for p's test but gives me plenty of time to ace their course layout that i had to download , hope you ladies have plenty of lovely rides and all stay safe

mel 67

02-28-2012, 01:11 AM

@ crystal33 never too old to learn im 44 and still on learners for a little while but was the best thing ive done in ages i ride with my hubby also , where abouts in tassie are you im from hobart area , hope to see you on the road best of luck to you and fellow learners out there..

Skotty

02-28-2012, 08:54 AM

Hey Mel67, I'm turning 44 in September. There are quite a few adult learners around.
I had a lesson today & one last week. I try to have one each week. I haven't ridden my own bike for ages, just don't seem to get time when the boyfriend has time/inclination to take me out. I am still doing o turns & quick stops, with a gradual improvement, but it has been a slow (& expensive) process. I skidded a little with the back wheel today in one of my quick stops when I was just about stopped. I didn't know what had happened, only that it felt a little odd. No stalling today, so that was good.

crystal33

02-28-2012, 04:18 PM

Hi Mel
I live at Acton Park. Had my learners since Valentine's Day lol. Went for a 'real' ride on Saturday (early to escape that heat!). All the way to Eaglehawk Neck, through those nice bends between Dunalley & Murdunna. Loved it - had no dramas really and bike & me got on well. Hubby rides a Kawasaki ZX-14.

mel 67

03-02-2012, 01:42 AM

well done ladies hope to see you on the road some time crystal ive riden a few places in our great state my hubby and i did an east coast ride on ausralia day travelled 320 k's but man what a ride totally awsome with plenty of nice corners along the coast line hubby rides a suzuki boulevard 1800cc bit out of my league but awsome if your on face book add me maybe we could have a ride some day ( melissa sturzaker) there is two by that name just look for the bike and thats me .. take care ladies and happy riding

ridingAK

03-02-2012, 11:31 AM

You are added on Facebook. :):

mel 67

03-03-2012, 01:23 AM

thanks ridingAK. :):

Skotty

03-03-2012, 01:54 AM

Hi Mel & Crystal, it's nice you are both in Tassie, hopefully you can met up some time - it's only a small place isn't it?:lol: My ex-husband & I lived in Lutana, Hobart for 10 months in 2000 - 2001, and managed to see a fair few of the sights. You live in a beautiful state, with some wonderful tourist facilities. I remember seeing alot of roadkilled animals, probably because there is just so much wildlife around, be very careful you don't run into a wombat out there!

crystal33

03-03-2012, 05:38 AM

Hi. Another good ride today. Right through the city with traffic lights and busy traffic. Rest through country toads. Some tight corner sections.(sandfly, back through taroona for the tassie readers lol). And guess what - my first drop. U- turn on a narrow country road. I focussed on the side which had a steep gravel drop, got too slow and had to put a foot down which promptly slipped. Got too far over and just couldn't hold it up. Had to lay holly down but fairly gently and nothing broken, just a few scratches on the pipe. I even stayed on my feet. a good lesson learned. Tried to forget about it and concentrate on the rest of the ride home. I was happy with my handling of traffic and traffic lights so good ride overall. Now to practise those u-turns.:):

crystal33

03-03-2012, 07:56 AM

Hi Mel - friend request sent on fb. Michelle Ackerly.

mel 67

03-04-2012, 01:12 AM

thanks michelle all other ladies more than welcome to add ....

mel 67

03-04-2012, 01:16 AM

@ skotty sorry to hear you left our lovely state and yes lots of wildlife. it dont smell too good on the road sie either( few) we have some very windy and scenic roads here in tas glad you had a chance to enjoy some. and yes its nice to have a fellow tasmanian on the site hope to catch up on the roads some day take care ladies and stay safe ..

Skotty

03-15-2012, 10:16 AM

Had a lesson last week & one this week, focussing mainly on the quick stops. I'm having a hard time with these, can't quite get them down to the required distance yet. I locked up the rear again today for a couple of metres. I didn't know what happened, just felt off balance & wobbly. I was nearly stopped by then, put my foot down abit early, off balance, arms not straight, messy! After that only had time for one more, which was longer than the rest I'd been doing, I guess I was feeling abit tentative by then :): .
General riding was OK, it was very busy being 8 am, rush hour in the suburbs. At $60 per hour these lessons are costing me! I'll be glad when I eventually get it together.

ImaSoftT

03-15-2012, 10:50 AM

Wow, $60.00 an hour :eek: , might be cheaper to fly to the US and get your license here. Unless they would make you take the AU test when you go back home.

Scooterpie

03-15-2012, 12:42 PM

Wow, $60.00 an hour :eek: , might be cheaper to fly to the US and get your license here. Unless they would make you take the AU test when you go back home.

$60 is cheap its $100 per hour here.

Heidi

03-29-2012, 09:20 PM

I am a new rider and new to TWF. Skotty, I have really enjoyed reading your story and progress. I feel so lucky to have found a such a supportive group of ladies (and men).

Keep up the great work. You are an inspiration to me!

ridingAK

03-29-2012, 09:25 PM

:thumbsup:

Skotty

03-30-2012, 12:46 AM

Thanks Heidi, and welcome. It's a great group & if you're really lucky you might live near enough to meet up in real life with some of the TWFers.

I haven't ridden in a couple of weeks as my instructor had to fly to the UK for a family crisis of some sort (not good news I would guess). I'm hoping my boyfriend & I will be able to get out this weekend, I need all the practice I can get!

LNS_obsessed

03-30-2012, 05:37 PM

General riding was OK, it was very busy being 8 am, rush hour in the suburbs. At $60 per hour these lessons are costing me! I'll be glad when I eventually get it together.

HOLY CRAP! :eek: How long have you been taking these lessons? If I calculate correctly, you've been taking them since maybe last July?

Skotty

03-31-2012, 07:36 AM

Luna Tique

03-31-2012, 07:44 AM

I look at riding this way Every time I turn the key I am learning.
I don't have a paid instructor following me but sometimes I ask JT to follow me and critique my riding.:riding: Other days I am chasing his tail light. :D: It has been this way for 38 years.

LNS_obsessed

03-31-2012, 09:05 PM

Just don't even go there LNS! I'm a slow learner I guess, it took a fair while to even get out of the carpark - I went out onto the roads on my 8th lesson. I'm afraid my improvement has been in very tiny steps, currently trying to get my emergency stops shorter without locking up the back brake. It's been ages since I rode my own bike, between work, the baking hot summer, and boyfriend being unwell. So very little practice apart from lessons once a week if I can, sometimes longer apart. Honestly - it's embarrassing for me to look at how long it's taking me. :redface1:

Oh please! Don't be embarrassed about how long it is taking you. You are being very thorough. I'm just thinking you may have had to get a mortgage to pay for your lessons!

We don't have that much preparation in the States before we get our licenses. Scary, huh?

Skotty

04-01-2012, 03:49 AM

LNS_obsessed

04-01-2012, 08:41 AM

Luckily my mortgage is small, so I have money left for my lessons:):.
It sounds like you guys just do fairly slow riding in a car park type area to get your licence?
We have to do a test on road in whatever traffic is around, so traffic lights, road works etc etc, & also the O-turns (basically several circles done in a two lane road), quick stop from 50kmh in 12 metres, and hill starts - you must do all these things correctly to pass. So many ways to fail - leaving indicator on, speeding, not being confident enough, stopping in front of a fire hydrant (which are set into the ground here) etc etc. I'm thinking nerves must fail alot of people, as being in a test environment makes most people more nervous that they would be just riding.

If I knew I had to do all that going into it, I would still be a passenger.

I only took the class cuz my sister (who has her license), my bf, and a female friend who rides kept telling me I should do it. I did it to shut them all up so they'd leave me alone. Then after the class, it took me a long time to ride cuz it just FREAKED ME OUT MAN! Then I found the perfect bike for me and I've only been a passenger 2x since. And not by my choice. :roflmao: I wanted to ride, but was too new for some of the riding we were doing. But, being as against it as I was in the beginning, I probably wouldn't have gone thru all that trouble and I would have missed out on so much.

I'm impressed with your tenacity. Keep going!!! :pompom:

sweptwingnut

04-01-2012, 09:01 AM

Skotty, You will be a much better skilled and proficient rider than many others by the time you are finished. You are making safe, conscientious, and smart choices that are very telling of your intellect, passion, and fortitude.

Continue to ride smart and safe. You have our support. :cheers:

The next time I am in Perth, (I get there a few times a year) dinner for you and your boyfriend is on me.

ridingAK

04-01-2012, 09:29 AM

I wish the US had the level of testing you have in Australia. It would keep a lot of the posers off the road.

zukilady

04-01-2012, 10:19 AM

We are proud of you Skotty and so glad you have taken us along for the ride!

Skotty

04-01-2012, 10:44 AM

Wow, thanks for the nice comments guys:):, I have to admit I've been wondering if I'll ever get there, but I really want to succeed in this. And of course when I do pass this test, it only qualifies me to ride up to 250cc. I have to wait one year & do another practical test on a bigger bike to get an unrestricted licence. Didn't get to ride this weekend, boyfriend has a sinus infection. My instructor is still away, so it looks like it'll be a month between rides.

What brings you to Perth so often Nut? Work of some sort I'm guessing?

ridingAK

04-01-2012, 10:47 AM

He's a cargo pilot, Skotty. He flies in and out of Sydney fairly often, Melbourne and Perth less often. :):

Luna Tique

04-01-2012, 07:06 PM

I wish the US had the level of testing you have in Australia. It would keep a lot of the posers off the road.

I agree :thumbup:

mel 67

04-08-2012, 03:21 AM

g'day skotty thinks you need to come down here to tassie im 12 days away from sitting for my provisional and im in one hand itching and the other nervous as . but at least here as a learner or provisional we can ride unaccompanied and up to 650cc by our selves good luck with it your doing a great job and remember at the end of it you will be licenced and have it for ever, good luck melissa..

Skotty

04-10-2012, 05:37 AM

Hi Mel, Good luck with your test - what is involved for you guys? I haven't been out for 4 weeks now. Instructor still away - boyfriend still sinusy (is that a word?). I had a 4 day weekend for Easter with beautiful weather & no riding.:(:. I'm getting jealous of the flexibility that other folk have to be able to practice alone - the shadow thing is a right pain.

sincityzchick

04-10-2012, 08:08 AM

Skotty, I have to say that sucks. But you made it.. When will your instructor be back? Hopefully you will be out soon.

Skotty

04-15-2012, 05:43 AM

So, managed to get out for ride today! It's 1 month since my last lesson, and 3 1/2 months since I last rode MY bike (where did that time go?) I felt really nervous before we set off, but it didn't go too badly :):. I didn't have a plan in mind really, just went around the suburb for a while, so turns, stops, roundabouts etc. Then we went out for a ride along some semi-rural roads up to 80 kmh. Did 69 km all up in an hour and a bit. This was the 8th time I have ridden the Virago, for a total of 539 km.
I stalled it once, went a little wide on a couple of turns from stop (still well in my lane though), came too close to the kerb on a right angle left turn, but generally went OK I think. My throttle control on this bike is abit choppy at times, just need practice with it all.
We were cruising along a straight road at 60kmh when a idiot on a dirt bike came past us. I hadn't seen him coming in my mirrors & he came screaming by me right on the centre line. I was in the right wheel track so towards the centre line rather than the kerb. Didn't make me jump though, so that was good. I have to admit that seeing oncoming traffic when I'm going around a curve does seem kind of intimidating even when they are safely on their own side of the road.
I have got a mobile mechanic coming over on Wednesday to do an oil change on the bike, and check over everything. It hasn't been serviced since July 2010, so it's well due, even though it's done very few km since then.
My instructor is back now, so I have a lesson on Tuesday, and have 2 more booked for the next two weeks. Back on track!

ImaSoftT

04-15-2012, 09:03 AM

:thumbsup: sounds like you're doing great Skotty, your dedication is so admirable. :clapping:

04-15-2012, 10:05 AM

Wow, a mobile mechanic.:thumbsup:

Astir

04-15-2012, 10:50 AM

:yahoo: Way to go Skotty!!

Remember to always look where you want to go, don't fixate on that oncoming traffic in the other lane or that curb you don't want to get close to or.... :thumbup:

Skotty

04-17-2012, 07:54 AM

I had my regular lesson this morning, first one in 4 weeks. I felt really nervous beforehand, but it went OK. I did find it fairly stressful, there was quite busy traffic & we were mainly doing general riding practice, so a lot of intersections, up & down gears, merge lanes, traffic lights etc etc.
Stalled a couple of times - I think I had my foot on the rear brake a little long, it was a slight incline, although my hillstart later was fine. I was a little slower than ideal also, in terms of take-off from a stop & also cornering. Something to work on - along with the million other things :): I tend to find that the busier it is, the more I have to think about & keep track of, & the slower I will accelerate. Next lesson next week.

sincityzchick

04-17-2012, 02:43 PM

Remember hard practices are just as good as good practices. And you ended on a good note. Don't you hate that it takes time to get it all. There are times when I wonder if it all will click.. Then I think back to 2 weeks ago, and realize I've come a long way. And SO HAVE YOU!

Skotty

04-18-2012, 08:02 AM

Wow, a mobile mechanic.:thumbsup:

Well the mobile mechanic was a nice young guy. He did an oil change, changed the brake fluid & checked over the chain, clutch & brake levers, etc etc. Poor soul went out for a litlle check ride just as another shower came over, so he ended up a little wet. He turned up right on time & only charged $100 for the job, which I thought was pretty good.
He was pretty surprised at my 2008 model bike with only 2330km on the clock, and was nice enough to say he liked riding the Virago home from work when he was working in a shop, and that they are good, reliable bikes.:):

mel 67

04-22-2012, 03:29 AM

hey skotty been good here finally sat my last licence test and i passed so no more tests here for me hope your trainer is well and you get in heaps of more riding especially where you are in perth should be nice most of the time according to weather man, so if i can do it so can you good luck and keep on going you know you can do it and look forward to hearing your progress xx

mel 67

04-22-2012, 03:41 AM

by the way skotty forgot to tell you i used my bike for the test my yamaha xvs 250 is alot like you virago bit a little longer and few cosmetic differences other than that they are very similar so good luck once again:thumbup:

ImaSoftT

04-22-2012, 08:10 AM

Congratulations Mel on passing your final test :yahoo: this is just what Skotty needs right now to boost her confidence, to know someone that has gone through the whole AU process and made it. :thumbsup:

Skotty

04-22-2012, 10:07 AM

Well done Mel - all legal now! Ima - my state has a different process, but I know it's possible here too - I've met ladies with their licence!:):

I rode with my boyfriend & the HOG group on the weekend - we did 260km on an overnight ride which takes me up to 788 km on my bike in 9 rides I think it is. It was a 50th birthday outing, we rode to a country town, stayed in the pub there & then went to a motorcycle festival in a nearby town for awhile, then home.
There were about 26 bikes I think, one other learner, but she has alot more experience than me. This was alot of riding in 100 - 110 kmh zones, gentle curves, not alot of traffic. I rode nearly at the back of the group, left more space in front of me than anyone else, & the 3 riders behind didn't crowd me, so that was good.
My speedo reads low. When I read at the limit, I'm about 10kph too slow. Boyfriend has told me before I need to do the limit - he gives hurry up signs. There's a fair bit of vibration at those speeds on my 250 Virago. We rode for about an hour & a half to get there, my feet were all tingly & odd when I got off. I was also freezing. :brr:Rushing about to get ready, I was nice & warm, but after the ride I gradually got colder & colder. I made a very wide slow right angle turn towards the end of the ride, & I think it was the cold & stiffness, I knew what I wanted to do, but it just didn't happen. Luckily there was no traffic around. Lesson - plan what you're going to wear. I could have stopped I suppose, but it kind of snuck up on me, and the roads weren't all that conducive for pulling over - gravel shoulders, windy & kind of narrow.
I need more practice on slow speed stuff on my bike. The mechanic I think moved my clutch lever further out again also, it didn't feel quite the same.

When we stopped at the motorcycle festival we angle parked on the side of the road, which was fine. But then they parked bikes all down the middle as well, so there was a skinny little track to get through & people everywhere.:eek: I have to say, I felt really stressed about it. Boyfriend was highly supportive & said "you just have to deal with it. Just crawl along with your feet down, like I'm going to do". So I was in first gear, did my best to keep it in the friction zone & it went OK.
There was just us two going home, he was in the lead. Got a few more keep up signals, but I refuse to be hurried through the curves, even though I'm probably 10km below the speed limit. We had a curvy road for part of the way home & twice boyfriend overtook slow cars, which left me behind till I could get past. At least he hadn't gone out of sight.
At one point my bike stuttered abit, we'd done abit over 200km by then. I slowed a little & switched to reserve ( first time!) & it was OK after that. There was a petrol station on the turn onto the highway shortly after, so I pulled in. BF went around the corner but came back & waited for me. Filled up OK, changed fuel cock back to main & we made it home. I stopped at my place & BF kept going to his. He had a plane to catch later in the day for a work trip. I get the feeling my slowness is a real annoyance.:(:

Luna Tique

04-22-2012, 01:53 PM

You are braver than I am.:pompom: I avoid crowded situations :hiding:

Riding when you are fatigued or cold can make for slight misjudgement but the motogods were looking out for you.:yahoo:
:thumbsup:

Astir

04-22-2012, 09:37 PM

You have good reason to feel stressed in crowded situations, and some bikes are friendlier for long distances than others. Feeling tingly means your bike is working pretty hard for you. I know it is hard with always having to have somebody along 'training' you to set a pace you are comfortable on. So what I am saying (and not very well) is, I feel your frustration. It is normal and don't beat yourself up. :hug2:

mel 67

04-23-2012, 03:03 AM

well done skotty sounds like you are starting to get familiar with your yammy, so glad you had a good ride and you are right to ride at your pace no one has the right to tell you to hurry thats how accidents happen stay the way you are if anything he should be following you to make sure your safe as my hubby does for me he rides at my pace not the other way around as im not the one thats been riding all those years , sometimes i think im slowing him up and he says so you ride to what feels comfortable and thats it, so keep at it girl you sound happy about your ride and yep we do things a little different here in tassie but you will get there too good luck xx

VStar

04-23-2012, 07:09 AM

Attagirl Skotty, that's a long first trip and it was successful, lot of new experiences for you too, that's always a plus, even being cold & stiff teaches you something for the next ride, glad nothing bad resulted from it. What to do about being too slow for BF, with experience you'll be more comfortable at the higher speeds but you do have to consider the size of the bike and engine, it may not be able to keep up for all the hours and miles, just be sure to know the route so you can always find a meeting place if you loose track of him.

VirginiaMom

04-23-2012, 03:44 PM

Skotty, I just wanted to say thank you, to you and all the other riders on here. Your diary of sorts here has been a very interesting & helpful read. I've loved reading about all the great progress you've made! :pompom: And I am in awe at the overwhelming consistent flow of support from this great online community. :grouphug:

I found that just taking that first step, for me, was a really big deal! My hubby doesn't ride, and it has been years since I have been a passenger, but I just couldn't let another spring go by listening to the roar of everyone else's bikes, while I was pining away! Since taking that first step there have been a lot of small goals achieved, and many more to master still yet. I am amazed by the huge difference in what is required from different countries to get your M permit! I think the requirements here could be a bit stricter, but I am thankful I was able to go out on my own to practice, as my brother never has time to go out with me, and I don't really know anyone else locally to ride with. All my riding family is about 600 miles away! I do make sure to start each outing at the church parking lot around the corner, practicing those darn U-turns & playing in the friction zone. I read somewhere around here about a bike rodeo where the rider who goes the slowest wins~ I'd love to see that!

I'm actually more thankful now that I've had to go it alone so much. I think my brother would probably be more like your bf, a bit impatient with a "just do it" attitude. He never took the MSF course, just got a learners permit, didn't really abide by the rules that much, floundered around & learned well enough to pass the DMV test. IMO, he really needs to work on his slow maneuvers. I'm sending him links to the ridelikeapro youtube videos & hoping he'll go practice a bit with me in a parking lot. He just got a new, bigger bike (Vulcan), but you know that male ego of his probably won't be slowing down for practice in a lot anytime soon.... :shrug: Oh well... maybe one day when I show him up with my mad slow maneuvering skillz he'll see the light! :wootrock: :rofl:

Btw, I friended you & Mel on fb. Anyone else who wants to friend me, I'd love to see you there! (carol roetto) :w2:

mel 67

04-25-2012, 02:27 AM

thanks carol accepted and yep anyone else wants to add mee feel free i will gladly accept (melissa sturzaker) just look for the bike cheers

Cyclone67

04-25-2012, 06:07 AM

Skotty, wow! You've really come along way! You're doing great!

So how is the winters where you are? I guess it's coming up soon. I hope you get to keep riding, I love seeing your progress.

Skotty

04-25-2012, 07:43 AM

I think the requirements here could be a bit stricter, but I am thankful I was able to go out on my own to practice, as my brother never has time to go out with me, and I don't really know anyone else locally to ride with.

Btw, I friended you & Mel on fb. Anyone else who wants to friend me, I'd love to see you there! (carol roetto) :w2:
Hi VM, I think there are pros & cons in all the different licencing systems, but it would make my life easier if I could go around the block & down to the carpark by myself to practice! I need to spend some time just practising friction zone & slow corners etc on my bike rather than the lesson bike.
I didn't get your friend request on Facebook, but I have sent one to you ( I hope!!) :):

Skotty

04-25-2012, 07:57 AM

Skotty, wow! You've really come along way! You're doing great!

So how is the winters where you are? I guess it's coming up soon. I hope you get to keep riding, I love seeing your progress.

Gee thanks Cyclone :): It feels like slow progress, but when I look back on my dead slow wobbling through the carpark with the instructor jogging alongside, I had a long way to go.

Our winters are pretty mild, but we do get a reasonable amount of rain. Average maximum is about 18 C , and it VERY rarely gets down to freezing at night. Never snows, but sometimes hail. I've had lessons in the rain before, but usually showers rather than continual downpours!

Skotty

05-01-2012, 10:28 AM

Another lesson today, which went OK. O-turns are going well, as long as I remember to keep the revs up to around 2000rpm. Spent a while working on quick stops, had a couple of minor lockups on the rear brake. I think as the front end dips & my weight comes forward I put too much pressure onto that foot brake.

One of the learner girls from the HOG chapter came off last weekend on a group ride (we were not there) , & the guy behind her came off as well. Luckily no bad injuries to either. Apparently she hit some bumps or something coming out of a corner & lost control. My boyfriend was saying she is not good on corners & should reassess if she is capable of riding. She has been learning for 3 years, rides out with her Dad alot I think. He went on to say that I'm not great on corners either.

I said I knew that already & that I do better on my lesson bike, than on my Virago, which I have about 790 km on over 11 rides. He didn't seem to see my point that the 2 bikes are very different in shape & handling. One is a cruiser & one is an upright naked style, the foot position, handlebars, & front wheel rake are all different, as well as the clutch etc. He said you don't need that long to get used to driving a different car, but I don't think cars vary as much as bikes, or maybe it's that I am a beginner on bikes but have been driving cars for over 25 years & have had much more variety. Funny thing is, when he got his Harley he reckons he took it easy for 3000km or so, as he hadn't been riding for a few years & had been on sportbikes previously. I figure a new rider can take at least that long to get used to a bike. Anyway, I changed the subject at that point, get a bit sick of the total lack of any kind of understanding of my learning process. :mad: Just abit of a vent there! :):

On the plus side my instructor said something this morning about just needing to sort out the quick stops. I made a joke about another 12 months should see me right, and he said "Oh no, your getting really close, it's all going well", or something to that effect, which was nice to hear. :): I figure when I get my licence, then I can take my bike out & go around & around the area & practice my turns till the cows come home. That's what I need to do.