I feel like giving up. :(

[adelgadorey]

I'm really (really) sorry for the length of this post but I am really feeling super low and was hoping to be able to share and get it off my chest. I don't really have any other people to talk to about riding who understand…

On the one hand, I've been going out in SF traffic on my little Honda Twinstar and doing pretty well, a huge milestone!! I can now get from point A to point B in the city under my own power, which is completely mind-blowing to someone who's never driven a car or even a golf cart. It's still scary and terrifying, of course, but I feel like I'm getting the hang of it—baby steps.

On the other hand, I have this big Thruxton 900 at the office 50 miles away; I've been telling myself that after enough time on the Honda I can work my way up to this bike, which I idiotically bought before I'd ever even climbed on a motorcycle. But…it just sits there and I feel like it's telling me "you need to practice every day, look at these nice suburban streets, go ahead…stop being so scared. You work such long hours you never get back to the city to ride the little bike, so you need do it while you're here at work." I did my classes on this bike, but in 4 months I've also dislocated my kneecap, torn my IT band, and have acquired huge permanent bruises and knots on my legs from trying to ride it. And that's just my body—I can add countless mirrors and footpegs to the casualties list.

I told myself "I just need to get better, I'll turn a corner, one day I'll get on Penance (that's her name, maybe that's the problem lol) and things will just flow." After all, don't I hear about ladies with all kinds of big heavy bikes who are doing great? I just have to try harder! And sometimes, things do flow—and it feels great, and then just when I'm getting my confidence back, another unexpected u-turn or a figure-8 leaves me on the ground, furious and terrified of the bike again. I was sticking with it out of sheer stubbornness, part ignorance and part pigheadedness.

My first glimpse into what kind of mistake I might be making was when my coworker and I (who are about the same point in our learning process) tried each others bikes out for a 5-minute quick ride in the neighborhood. I was intimidated by his SV650 because it seemed so big and sportbike-y, but when I got on that thing it was like a revelation. I was sitting upright, my hands weren't angled out and down gripping clip-on handlebars, but ahead of me in a natural position, and my feet weren't practically in line with the back wheel on rearsets, like the Thruxton, but somewhere below my knees where I felt stable. I couldn't even flat-foot it but it didn't seem to matter—it was so well-balanced and light. I started it up and headed out and it was FUN. The bike felt so friendly and I had almost zero fear, it was a wonderful, confidence-inspiring ride. When my coworker came back on Penny, he was visibly shaken and a little pale and couldn't even park her or get the kickstand down. And this is a 250+lb dude who races cars. It got me thinking, maybe I'm not a colossal failure as a human being, maybe this is just a beast of a bike and I'm being unrealistic and hurting myself for no good reason.

And then this week rolled around. It's been one of the hardest I can remember, emotionally. My boss died this week. Everyone knew it would happen eventually but we never thought it would be so soon, and it's completely gutted me. I've been crying since Wednesday, listening to shows about his passing and watching the news crews outside and the flowers and keepsakes piling up everywhere. I'm trying really hard not to cry while I sit here and write this. His vision and this job has saved my life in numerous ways and I'll never be able to repay that, no matter how many hours I put in. I've been a complete wreck all week and it's been raining so I didn't ride at all, aside from running out to get some treats for my team to boost morale at a nearby bakery. So I planned a new route last night, going along some twisty back roads near work I'd never been to and was getting ready to challenge myself.

I knew as soon as I got on that things weren't right with me. I've told people not to ride while stressed or freaked out or tired or sad, and I was all of those things, and I didn't listen to my own advice, because I was too busy telling myself not to be a chicken. Corners didn't feel right, the whole balance of the bike felt off somehow, I wasn't in control and I was riding horribly. I made myself keep going and about halfway through the trip while going downhill I saw I was about to miss my right turn. I braked, was still ahead of the turn, so I quickly decided to turn around and loop into where I needed to be (it was a pretty deserted road). I turned, way too slow, back uphill, and down, and the bike went down. I didn't have a scratch, bump or bruise, it was that slow and dumb of a fall. Picked it up, threw the kickstand down and calmed the freaked out girl who had driven up to the turn as I was picking up the bike. Decided to cut my losses and head back to the office ASAP.

I'm done. This was the last straw for me, this week has made me realize that life is too short and I can't keep doing this to myself. My little Honda is great but those 30-year-old single-shoe drum brakes freak me out and while 200ccs is fine for the city I can't hope to keep up with my friends bikes on bigger roads. I thought I'd be able to work up to this bike but I failed miserably and I give up. I'm going to look for something lighter, less powerful, with no clip-ons or rearsets, that will make me happy and remind me why I started doing this in the first place. Riding (on the Triumph) had turned into this teeth-gritting exercise in self-flagellation and recrimination, and I'm pretty sure that's not how it's supposed to go. I didn't stop myself from riding because I was feeling bad partly because I *always* feel bad when I get on that thing. I was hoping to ask for some advice on a good classic-looking mid-range bike that doesn't look like a molded piece of plastic. But maybe a molded piece of plastic is all I'm cut out for right now, if so, tell me! I obviously don't know what I'm doing heh. Thank you SO much for reading all of this, I'm so sorry it was so long, I just had to tell someone and try to find a solution…

[RetroRider81]

Hi adelgadorey (http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/member.php?u=14526),

You are a great and skilled rider in my opinion if you are able to ride through the heart of a big city. I dont care how nervous you are when you are doing it, you have ridden through the heart of San Francisco without dying, so I bow down to you and your riding skills and you have guts which I envy.

JUST GET A FUN BIKE!!!! And I mean, simply get a bike which you can have fun on! Go to as many different dealerships as you can, and sit on every single bike you can possibly sit on, and all the ones that feel good when you sit on them, take them out for a test ride!!! Try out all types of bikes, dont limit yourself to what you think you want! You never know what bike may pleasantly surprise you!

I rode Dualsport Chic's dual sport bike this summer, I never even thought about dual sports, its not that I didnt like them, its just they never even entered my mind when I was looking to buy my own bike, and now after riding DC's dual sport, I am a bit obsessed with them!!! And I would have never even known that I liked them unless I had tried one out!

And I was obsessed with Bonnevilles when I first started riding. Just purely from the looks of them! Well I sat on one, and knew it was too heavy for me, at least as my first bike. I ended up with a Suzuki TU250X and I cant recommend them enough!!! They are a standard bike, so a natural riding position, weighs 300lbs, can do the highway if need be, and looks wicked retro cool.

Let us know what you try out, and what you end up with!!!! :wootrock:

[Cyclone67]

Don't be hard on yourself. You've come to a good decision I think. Your story is a good example of why it's good to buy a cheap low cc bike to begin and then buy the dream bike later. A new rider just doesn't have the right knowledge to make a good decision a lot of times.

How about a Triumph Bonneville SE?? I have one, it's low, so you can flatfoot, 900cc so plenty for touring, and upright. It was my first bike and I did fine with it. Anyways, try out some bikes and see what clicks for you. Forget the bike lust -- never buy on an impulse. Research, sit on, and test ride if possible.

Sorry about your boss. After a rough, emotional week, you really have to wait until your in the right frame of mind to ride.

[calico1062]

Hi Adel, I feel like I just want to :hug2: you... Sorry you are feeling so down. And so very sorry about your boss... it's a great loss. That's a lot to deal with on its own, let alone to be dealing with the bike issues. It is really apparent that you are a good rider and skilled. It is just that maybe that Thruxton is riding you and it's holding you back from really having the kind of experience you deserve to have. Finding a bike that is more suited to your situation and size sounds like a wonderful idea. I hope you follow through on that decision and find a bike that will really allow you to enjoy your rides without all of the stress; one that will build your confidence and that will help find those "moments" where everything clicks - without taking all of those beatings (bodily and psychologically).

[sweptwingnut]

...

My first glimpse into what kind of mistake I might be making was when my coworker and I (who are about the same point in our learning process) tried each others bikes out for a 5-minute quick ride in the neighborhood. I was intimidated by his SV650 because it seemed so big and sportbike-y, but when I got on that thing it was like a revelation. I was sitting upright, my hands weren't angled out and down gripping clip-on handlebars, but ahead of me in a natural position, and my feet weren't practically in line with the back wheel on rearsets, like the Thruxton, but somewhere below my knees where I felt stable. I couldn't even flat-foot it but it didn't seem to matter—it was so well-balanced and light. I started it up and headed out and it was FUN. The bike felt so friendly and I had almost zero fear, it was a wonderful, confidence-inspiring ride. When my coworker came back on Penny, he was visibly shaken and a little pale and couldn't even park her or get the kickstand down. And this is a 250+lb dude who races cars. It got me thinking, maybe I'm not a colossal failure as a human being, maybe this is just a beast of a bike and I'm being unrealistic and hurting myself for no good reason.
.…

I think you found your solution right here.

So I have to say, your blue jeans fit because you try on and purchase jeans that fit. And no matter how sexy a pair of jeans may make you look, its means nothing if you can't function when you wear them.

Motorcycles are exactly the same. So why the perpetual focus on having one if it doesn't work (fit) for you? If you have "tried on" the sv650 and it fits you, then stop fighting your karma and sell that thruxton. :shrug:

We say it a lot around here,,,,ride your own ride. No need to worry yourself on "keeping up" as long as you are riding your own ride. Indeed, that is exactly what your boss did during his lifetime. :thumbsup:

The first step in making a change is deciding a change needs to be made. :cheers:

[ridingAK]

Nut hit this one on the head. You have found a different bike that you like, so sell the Thruxton and get the other bike. There shouldn't be any feeling of failing or not doing well involved. The Thruxton isn't for you. Now that you know that the only "failure" would be in not making the change.

You know you can ride, and you know you can have fun doing it. So stop beating yourself up for buying the wrong bike and start focussing on getting the right one so you can enjoy riding!

[Astir]

This sounds like a divorce where it is simple incompatibility. You feel guilty about calling it quits, but in actuality you both need to find somebody who you deserve, who deserves you. Know body is perfect - we all make mistakes.

No guilt - both you and the thruxton need to simply move on. :hug2: I felt the happiness when you talked about riding the SV. Nut is right you know... the first step is deciding a change needs to be made.

[Follow]

yup, agree! you answered your own thoughts.........so shoot us a picture when you get a new bike....one that's not fighting you, well you fighting it.:):

[phoenix63]

Hi adelgadorey (http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/member.php?u=14526),
I ended up with a Suzuki TU250X and I cant recommend them enough!!! They are a standard bike, so a natural riding position, weighs 300lbs, can do the highway if need be, and looks wicked retro cool.

Let us know what you try out, and what you end up with!!!! :wootrock:

Here's another vote for the TU250x. I have one, too and I love her. As rr81 said, they're light, good riding position, and so easy to handle. It's a great beginner's bike, but I love her so much, I'll probably keep her even when I add another bike (likely a Bonneville or a BMW).

Don't be so hard on yourself. I know it's tough to get comfortable as a newbie. I'm still very new, too. Be patient with yourself, and stick with the smaller bikes for a while. You'll know when it's time to go up to the next level bike for you.

[ImaSoftT]

:iagree: with everyone. Astir hit the nail on the head. When you know you're meant to be together it's time to move on. You are not giving up, you are moving on.

[Flight49]

The whole focus of riding is the joy and the fun - not the bike. If you bought the wrong bike - big deal! Sell it and find one that shouts FUN!!!! Life is not meant to be filled with regret.

[ImaSoftT]

Life is not meant to be filled with regret.

Amen Sister.

[Dualsport Chic]

adel -

Some great wisdom has been bestowed in the previous posts on this thread - I'm thinking the same. But first here's a:hug2:.

Sounds like a lot is going on in your life right now which is making all facets of your life look dreary. As surely as there will be low points along the journey in one's life, there will be corresponding high points of intense joy and contentment. Know that those days are ahead for you.

Now - back to the bike situation: The Thruxton - while a gorgeous bike, it does not have a natural ergonomic rider position - it has a very strange one actually - that I'm not even sure as a long time rider (30+ yrs) that I'd ever be able to feel comfortable on it. Positioning is critical when you are a new rider - the correct machine must feel natural and comfortable and at the same time put you at ease on so that your experience is a fun, confidence building one.

After life settles a bit for you, take some time to go window shopping. Head out to several dealers and talk with them about bikes, and ask them about ergonomics and their opinions for a rider of your size and skill level. Get their take. Check through the used bikes - as trust me, you'll have many over the years that you'll grow up through - like the rest of us. There will be a time for that 'brand new shiny ride' in in the future. When you go out there and sit on/test ride the right bike for you - you'll know it right off. And when you ride it, you will feel joy, not fear, and your skills and confidence will grow.

But please fist seriously consider finding another home for the Thruxton - to borrow a favorite quote from one Frank Lloyd Wright: Form Follows Function. If you're going to truly use it - a bike is only as good as your comfort on it, no matter how gorgeous/fast/etc. it is. Otherwise, it'll just end up a garage ornament that will make you grimmace everytime you lay eyes on it.

In the meantime however - go easy on yourself - we're here for you - so reach out any time - lots of support waiting for you whenever you need it. . .

Oh . . . and lots more of these :hug2:

[BlueLghtning]

I think everyone has given you some great advice.

As cool as that Thruxton is, I can only imagine that cafe racer position goes against about everything you need on your side while learning to ride.

You found exactly why a bike like the SV650 and the similar Ninja 650R give people many happy years of ownership. They really are great bikes and so fun to ride. There are also many other bikes out there like small dual sports or small adventure type bikes that have that natural seating position and you'd probably feel just as home on.

Maybe a Thruxton like this is meant to be in your life down the road, but it sounds like right now, it would suit you best to find the bike that makes you happy and help you grow as a rider. All the pieces will then fall into place for you.

[Pawprint2104]

+1 to all above. No doubt the Thruxton is a sexy bike, but you as you already know, you'll find a bike that better suits your needs. Go out and test several bikes, sit on them, ride them, and find what suits your style the best. There are several manufacturers to choose from, take your time, pick the one for you. Good luck, I know you'll do well.

[adelgadorey]

OH thank you so much for all the advice and words of support, I feel so much better!:): I don't know what I would do without your support and input. You're absolutely right, I shouldn't see this as a failure. I got the bike because it belonged to a dear friend who I lost but I know he wouldn't want me to stay in this "relationship" if it wasn't right/dangerous. He cared for me and it was enough to have set me on the path to riding, the bike itself isn't important. He even said once, "I couldn't care less about the bike. YOU are irreplaceable." And as for Steve, he once said that getting fired was the best thing that ever happened to him, because it allowed him to start over, with no pressure, and zero expectations or burdens. I think I'll look at this the same way.

I'm going to start looking around for bikes that are comfortable and try as many as I can— i'll definitely be checking out the Suzuki as well as some dual sports. Two of my friends recently got Bonnies and I'm going to ask them if I can give them a try. They seem like a much friendlier version of the Thruxton. Has anyone ridden a Honda 599? I sat on a used one at the shop by my house and it seemed pretty cool. Very well-balanced and nice-looking.

Thanks again for all you help and support, it's a wonderful feeling and just made my week so much brighter.

[Cyclone67]

Take your time and enjoy the shopping. You will know when the right bike finds you.

[TW200_CA]

So glad you are feeling better!

Let me know if you want company bike shopping - I'm keeping an eye out for an SV650 myself (desperately wanting one, actually).

Don't know where you've been yet, but MotoJava was great - super helpful, good advice, the guy who owns it is a short rider too. He suggested a Honda Hawk (NT650) - might be another good bike to check out. And when you do find the one, hopefully I'll have my SV, and we can go riding together!! :pompom:

[2wheelmeaggie]

Adel...
Lots of good advise here. Don't be so hard on yourself! :hug2: Listen I grew up in S.F. born and raised. Now I live in nearby BEAUTIFUL Sonoma! If you need somebody to help you find the "right bike" or help you with your riding.....PM me....
My husband and I are always willing to help a fellow rider! He's been riding for over 35 years and has the patients of a SAINT (he taught me) Let's get together and talk and RIDE......(if you want)
If you want to ride.......don't give up. Wanting is the first step.

[zukilady]

:pompom::pompom:

:hug2:


:popcorn1:

[Follow]

Gee, I'm excited to see what she gets..........:D:

I would love to try the Truxton.......track only.

[Luna Tique]

I am late to help you feel better but here is a:hug2: just because. :D:

I can not add anything more insightful than what has been already said.

Good luck and have fun with your search. :thumbsup:

[Unforgiven]

I didn't read the responses because I'm heading out but I'm sure you were already given good information. I will add that when you rode your coworkers bike, you just happened to jump on one of the most popular bikes for learning to ride and one that you will never outgrow. Now there are other bikes just as nice. Sell the one that is not working out. You dated it and it's not working out. Move on. There is nothing wrong with you or your riding skills in you ride in SF. Good luck and get out there and look at some bikes!

[opaque_machete]

All good advice, so all I can say is :iagree: Also, check out the Ninja 250. Looks like a sports bike, but sits like a standard. Plenty of power, light, short, and nimble.

[calico1062]

I agree on the Ninja 250... I love mine... it's amazing.

[chienjouet]

I am surprised, with having been in the company of someone who so embodied "Ride your own Ride", that you have the nerve to beat yourself up about not 'Riding your own Ride'.

Stop It!

Now!

Move On!

Get that bike that makes your heart sing. Have fun. Life is short.

I too, love the looks of that Thruxton, but holy heaven, if she makes you that miserable, say good-bye sweetly to that pretty face and move on!

Can't wait to see what you choose. You've done the research and will chose something really great. I am positive of it!!

[Unforgiven]

If you like the Triumph, you would probably love the street triple but you can't beat the Japanese four for reliability. Lot's of nice choices out there for sporty type bikes that are not race ready. I love my race ready bikes but as I am closing in on 50, I'm starting to look at comfort more closely and leave the aggressive riding for the track. At least thinking of helibars for the bumble bee and an energy seat.

[zukilady]

The street triple - that is the bike my oldest wants to get. It's got a sporty look to it but it seems you sit a little more upright.

[adelgadorey]

all righty guys, I'm taking a look at this beauty tomorrow…what do you think?

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/mcy/2653462437.html

[opaque_machete]

Nice bike! I would make him promise to warranty it for a couple of days in case there is something majorly wrong with it for that price. I think it's a little steep for a 38 yo bike, but that's just me. My hubby used to have a honda cb350 and rode the wheels off of it. He claimed it was reliable, but that was wayyy before I met him. :lol: My first question would have to be, if he just rode it from SF to Yosemite and back, why is he selling it?

[adelgadorey]

that's what i'm planning to ask him! If I owned that bike I would never sell it. I'll be taking my mechanic buddy with me to give it a full check, so we'll see :D

[opaque_machete]

Good luck and definitely let us know what happens!

[sweptwingnut]

My biggest questions would be regarding the fuel tank (condition/interior rust/interior refurbished) and engine oil consumption during the yosemite trip. Both can give you a good indication of overall health. Have your mechanic friend look in the tank with a flashlight and mirror to check for rust.

I would expect some issues in those two areas with a bike of this age in original condition. Not a game changer if there is a small amount of oil consumption but it is something you should know up front and evaluate before paying this price.

No issues would lend me to thinking these two areas had been addressed during the refurbishing of the bike. If they have been addressed I would want to know what was done and by whom.

Also, you may want to research the effects of ethanol on these older bike engines. It may be a good idea to add a fuel conditioner such as this one http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/SBL0/22239.oap?ck=Search_N2426_-1_-1&pt=N2426&ppt=C0126 to every tank.

Maybe Indianscout, Blulightning, or KK will share their thoughts on taking care of these older bikes as well.

[Dualsport Chic]

Sounds a bit pricey to me but if you don't mind paying for the 'antique factor' I guess that's what the seller is building in. Reliability should be paramount - what Nut has suggested is very sound advice so do ALL your research on this one as you don't want to pay a premium for this baby and end up stranded or sidelined with mechanical malfunctions down the road.

Keep us posted -we're excited to see what you finally choose!

:popcorn1:

[Luna Tique]

I think it is too much money for the bike. :shrug:but let's see what your mechanic thinks.



:offtopic: Speaking of the CB350 I had a 1970 CB350 supersport :cloud9: It was a sweet, light weight, very flickable and very reliable. I rode it from upstate NY to Huston Texas in the mid 70's :riding:.
I bought it when it was a year old with around 600 miles on it and paid I think :chin:around $325.00 for it. :D:

[adelgadorey]

I will definitely look at the tank (and have my buddy steve look at every nook and cranny) and ask about the oil usage... If this is the bike I think it is, it belongs to one of the guys who works at cycle gear next to my house. The Internet tells me the seat height and weight is almost the same as the thruxton so we'll see if the riding position alone is enough to sell me on it, it might still be too heavy, and if it isn't, then I might as well get a new(ish) Bonneville. I don't think I want to buy the first bike I lay eyes on either :-) unfortunately these old hondas have become hipster catnip in San Francisco and the price is reflective of that... And since folks ride year round here nobody's in a hurry to sell before the season's over. We'll see how it goes... I'm a little ashamed to admit it but the color has a lot to do with me looking at the bike today, I love earthy browns and greens and the 70s color palettes hehe. I wish I had a time machine, I could go back and get one for 300 bucks!! :)

[sweptwingnut]

...
:offtopic: Speaking of the CB350 I had a 1970 CB350 supersport :cloud9: It was a sweet, light weight, very flickable and very reliable. I rode it from upstate NY to Huston Texas in the mid 70's :riding:.....

:offtopic: In the mid 70's I was playing with Lincoln Logs and had a toy motorcycle on my B'day cake for the first time. :rofl:

[ridingAK]

I'll get that for you LT. :smack:

[Luna Tique]

Thanks ;):

[sweptwingnut]

;):


:hiding:

[phoenix63]

Yeah, Nut... i'd duck and cover if I were you, too. :lol:

[adelgadorey]

Sooo I ran my finger along the inside of the tank and it came out rusty..also it was taller and the seat was wider than the thruxton, which was surprising. My friend said he'd never seen such a big old 450, apparently it's quite a bit larger than the 400s. So I held off. But I got on my coworkers Bonnie today and it felt AWESOME. So I might go for one of those!!

[Cyclone67]

I really enjoy my Bonnie. I hope you find the right bike for you soon! Good Luck!!

[BlueLghtning]

I just realized I hadn't got to the 2nd page yet by the time I started typing my response and it appears you have moved on from this bike, but I still wanted to post it.

I can't really say I'm familiar with that bike enough to give you any real good advice. Personally for me, it seems a bit pricey, but then again, it may just be its age and value and something I'm not aware of. I know certain old bikes can bring some money, and this may be one of them. I'm certainly not here to bash old bikes as they are definitely something to admire, but I think for learning purposes, they don't make the best bike. I would definitely back Nut's suggestions about rust and oil usage as that could get expensive quick and with that age, there are bound to be other issues too.

I'm going to be straight forward here though and tell you I' still a bit concerned and my gut is telling me that you are going right towards another bike that isn't going to help you grow very much as a rider and your feelings about giving up might be even stronger then before. It doesn't look nearly as aggressive as your current bike which is good, but the handling of bikes from the 70's wasn't their top suit. Back then no one knew any better since that was all there was, but bike handling, brakes, and tires have a come a long way since the 70's. As I look at that bike the first thing that jumps out is the single front disk rotor with single piston and a rear drum brake. Compared to today's bikes, the stopping on that bike is not going to be that fun at all. I also looked up and that bike weighs around 450lbs. That's still a big and hefty bike. They were made good back then and hence why they are still around, but this all is working against you.

With the type of bikes you have chosen to look at, I certainly admire your passion for those types of older and classic style bikes, but I feel that it might no be the right time to own a bike like that just yet? The newer bonnies might be okay for you, but I think you need a light bike you can grow your skills on, and then find the bike that satisfies your classic desire you have in bikes.

[adelgadorey]

Yup bluelightning I think you're right. I was gravitating towards the bikes I like the look of rather than the ones that will be fun for me to ride. That old Honda was way too big for me, as cool as it was. I didn't even ride it bc it felt way too tall and heavy off the kickstand. This weekend I'll take a look at a Kawasaki w650. Fortunately I'm in no huge hurry since I do have the little Honda but I'm going to get on as many different bikes as I can. I like the dual sports and am going to look at a bmw g650 too :) Thank you for the advice and input, you have no idea how much it means to me to be able to get everyone's perspective and collective wisdom. You're saving me from what could be some costly and disheartening mistakes :-)

[VTXGirl]

That price does seem a little steep. However, it is a Honda and well...they are reliable bikes. I would look around for something a little newer and less money. Now is a good time to find bikes fairly reasonable, at least here in the Northeast, because riding season is winding down. I'm glad to see that you're looking for something else to ride. Riding shouldn't be painful. Riding is meant to be fun and so is the bike you're riding. I always find it's not about the bike but more about you the rider and what fits you and your needs. A happy driver is a safer rider.

[S.P.Rocket]

Hi adelgadorey (http://www.twowheelfemales.com/forum/member.php?u=14526),



And I was obsessed with Bonnevilles when I first started riding. Just purely from the looks of them! Well I sat on one, and knew it was too heavy for me, at least as my first bike.

I know the feeling of wanting to give up riding. When I first started I bought the bonneville for the reason of it looking cool. Not a good reason to buy a motorcycle. It was too tall and too heavy for this 5'3" beginner. I constantly dropped it and felt like I was tip constantly. I no longer own the bonneville (but miss it though) and have come along way. Riding is a definite learning experience. Go with the bike that feels more comfortable to start with and then maybe you will go back to your Thruxton! There is definitely something to be said about someone who rides through SF traffic!:clapping: Don't let the thruxton get you down.

[KansasKawboy]

If you like the looks of the Bonneville you might look at the Suzuki TU250X. They have a similar look and are very easy to ride so help you learn. A lot of MSF classes use them for that reason. I ride one and so do Phoenix63 and RetroRider81. New ones are under $4,000 and there are used ones as people learn on them and move up to a bigger bike. This is my 2009.

http://kansaskawboy.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/TU250X/right-side/1225103499_SH2z2-L.jpg

[FutureDrJames]

They're awesome looking, but unfortunately, they're not legal in California. I assume they don't pass emissions.

[phoenix63]

Ah, yes... the California debate. That's discussed frequently over on the ADVrider boards. Cali is being a stickler over emissions, you're right. it's silly because the TU is a clean burning bike, but it lacks an evaporative canister. Supposedly, Suzuki was working on a California appropriate version, but we haven't heard anything about it for a while.

I love my TU250x. Love, love, LOVE it! :-D

[becsta]

Go the bonnie. It is a lovely bike to ride. I went for the Scrambler same style sort of but taller. I love my Scram.

You dont want to loose your confidence by forcing your self to ride a bike you are not comfortable on.

Good luck with deciding what bike to move onto and keep riding and enjoying it and working on your skills. I have been riding for 4 years and when I got the Scrambler I was very nervous on it as I had been on a lighter bike before I got it. I had some work done to the seat to lower it and also just got some lower suspension, I have still only done just over 2,00km on it but I now love it and feel really comfortable on it.

[adelgadorey]

Today I took my coworker's Bonnie out for the 20 mile twisty mountain lunchtime ride I normally do on the thruxton, and, this might sound a little weird, but I feel like I just met the love of my life or something. It felt light, comfortable, beautifully balanced, easy to ride and I couldn't stop smiling the entire time. It's 8 hours later and I'm still smiling!! I cannot BELIEVE this is essentially the same bike and the same weight as the thruxton. It feels like a whole new world. I didn't want to give it back. I seriously just wanted to get on the nearest freeway and ride till it got dark. I've never been so happy on a motorcycle, ever. I was cornering better and faster by far on this bike the first time riding it than I ever did on the thruxton. I'm still floating on this amazing feeling, and I think I know exactly what I want now. I'm still taking a look at the w650 but I'm 90% sure that this is the bike I want to spend thousands of miles on :-)

[Cyclone67]

glad you liked it!! I bought a Bonnie SE for my first bike and haven't regretted it. Plenty of power for me and a comfortable ride. I would recommend that you still keep checking out some other bikes just to make sure...... Don't feel rushed, Bonnies aren't going to sell out. I am a firm believer in waiting just a bit to let the initial bike lust wear out and make sure it's the bike you really want and it works for your needs.

[adelgadorey]

good call!! If I married every dude I described as having met the love of my life I'd be in for some pretty serious alimony :D Like you said, there will always be Bonnies around, and there's plenty of time to look around. I'm just so so relieved to have really confirmed that it's not me, I'm not a failure, and I got a little peek at how much fun my life can be on a bike that is more appropriate :D

[zukilady]

I'm just so so relieved to have really confirmed that it's not me, I'm not a failure


We've known this all along. ; ) :thumbup:

[Dualsport Chic]

Hurray adel! Glad to see you've rediscovered the joy in riding with a different type of bike/set-up. Now you can more confidently search to find the perfect one to bring home to join you on all your two wheeled adventures! :thumbsup:

[Luna Tique]

We knew in time you would come to realize it was not "YOU" ;):

Happy hunting :wootrock:

[ridingAK]

We've known this all along. ; ) :thumbup:

Yup! I'm glad you got to feel that permanent grin that the right motorcycle can give you. :):

[zee]

We've known this all along. ; ) :thumbup:

I wish you could see the huge grin on my face after reading your comments... and zuki's response. YES YES YES!!! :D:

[chienjouet]

I wish you could see the huge grin on my face after reading your comments... and zuki's response. YES YES YES!!! :D:

Yes,:wootrock: and Ditto!

Your persistence and your insistence on finding a solution, one step at a time, is so impressive. I'm so happy to hear you've had these new positive experiences. Yay!!! :thumbsup: for you!!

[KansasKawboy]

They're awesome looking, but unfortunately, they're not legal in California. I assume they don't pass emissions.
OOPS I forgot about that.

[Sedna]

good call!! If I married every dude I described as having met the love of my life I'd be in for some pretty serious alimony :D



:rofl: Soooo, soooo true!


Been following your saga from afar and I'm so glad to hear that you found something that works better for you and make you happy to ride! Woooohoo! :wootrock:

[phoenix63]

Yes,:wootrock: and Ditto!

Your persistence and your insistence on finding a solution, one step at a time, is so impressive. I'm so happy to hear you've had these new positive experiences. Yay!!! :thumbsup: for you!!

+1000! Way to go adelgadorey! I admire your persistence, too... and your self-confidence will only grow from here. Yay, RIDER! :D:

[Cyclone67]

One more thing. Think hard about what you want out of the bike. The Bonnie is great, but if you want to do some hard core touring -- the suspension is a bit weak and luggage setups are limited. You need the right tool for the job!!!

[adelgadorey]

okay you guys, I know I said I was going to keep a level head and take my time…but I went up to Santa Rosa (about 60 miles away from SF) on the back of my buddy's Bonneville to go look at this T100 and just went nuts for it. The guy who was selling it was a dude in late 50s-early 60s who had never even ridden the bike in the rain or at night. It was showroom-shape, not a nick or a scratch…he collects and restores vintage British bikes and his impeccably clean and maintained garage had a 68 BSA Lightning, 2 Norton Commandos, a 68 and a Mark III, a Triumph Trailblazer and a 73 Bonneville. He'd put saddlebags & center stand on it (it's a 2006 model he bought new in late 2007—the keys he gave me to test ride it still had the dealership price tag—$8970—on them) as well as Norman Hyde mufflers that make it sound like it eats children for breakfast, and new jets and needles that he said increased performance by about 10%. He'll be sending me the summer Triumph windscreen via UPS, because, well, I just couldn't say no:drool: And the fact that I was able to climb on a bike I'd never ridden before and take it comfortably 60 miles at night on the 101 over the Golden Gate bridge (brrr :brr: ), none of which I had ever done before, is a pretty good indicator that the bike and I get along well :D

I'm so excited to take this thing to the parking lot and practice slow-speed stuff and get comfortable. I've never been so happy and excited and nervous about anything in my life, it feels like. I hope I made the right decision. I'm about 98% sure I did. I just hope I deserve this bike haha

[ridingAK]

Nice!

[FutureDrJames]

Comfort is huge. TW200 and I can't wait to go out.

[Cyclone67]

Looks awesome!! I love the paint scheme on the T100's. :drool: I ended up with a SE after much consideration because it fit me SO much better. I think you'll do well with it, as I said -- it was my first bike and I did well with it and three years later I am still happy with the performance I get out of it. I don't feel that I need to upgrade at all.

I just wish mine still looked nice -- three years of being parked right by the beach has wreaked havoc on my poor Bonnie. She is one salty, rusty broad!! But still rides great. Like the movie Clueless -- she is a Monet -- looks good from far away but is super ugly up close right now. :lol:

Enjoy it!! Have you sold the Thruxton yet??

[adelgadorey]

I haven't put the Thruxton up for sale, I need to ASAP because it's still sitting out here taunting me and I feel like I should still force myself to ride it for some dumb reason. First I need to strip the crash bars off, and throw those on the Bonnie, and I'm trying to figure out whether it's worth it to replace the alternator cover and other bits that got scraped from my many close encounters with the ground. I never dropped it at speed, it was always either standing still or in some ridiculously way-too-slow turn. But you know how people are about a bike that's been dropped…

[Cyclone67]

I'd just sell it, myself. Frankly if someone tells me a bikes never been dropped I won't believe it unless it's got under 100 miles. Shoot, I dropped mine the first time with about 35 miles on it!!!

And don't feel the need to get back on!!! It will just mess with your new found confidence. You had a break up, Its time to move on.

[Luna Tique]

:drool: What a beauty.
I hope it makes you happy. :thumbsup:


I'd just sell it, myself. Frankly if someone tells me a bikes never been dropped I won't believe it unless it's got under 100 miles. Shoot, I dropped mine the first time with about 35 miles on it!!!

And don't feel the need to get back on!!! It will just mess with your new found confidence. You had a break up, Its time to move on.


I agree Time to move on.

[kari-star]

so beautiful! I love love love the t-100s myself, too. I sat on one for a good long time at a dealer when I first started riding and it felt REALLY GOOD. congratulations!

[sweptwingnut]

I'd just sell it, myself. Frankly if someone tells me a bikes never been dropped I won't believe it unless it's got under 100 miles. Shoot, I dropped mine the first time with about 35 miles on it!!!

And don't feel the need to get back on!!! It will just mess with your new found confidence. You had a break up, Its time to move on.

+2 Time to move on.

[phoenix63]

+3 on the moving on... :D:

[zee]

+4... not that you need any more push, right? :lol:

Congrats on your new find. I checked out the picture after reading your description and still said "Oh My God... " when I saw it. So gorgeous!!!

[phoenix63]

@ Zee: :lol:

[adelgadorey]

you're totally right! That bike is dead to me hehe. I'm riding down with a friend tomorrow, he'll ride the thruxton back to the city and I'll be on the bonneville. I told him he could keep it and ride it after his old '62 Triumph Tiger broke down. Now I don't have to feel guilty about the bike not being ridden AND I get brownie points for helping out a friend :D I WIN :D:

[Cyclone67]

OK, I need some friends like you!!!

Glad you are enjoying your Bonnie!!!

[opaque_machete]

Your bonnie is a beauty. :D:

[chienjouet]

What a beauty! Love the look of that bike and so glad you found one to make you happy!
Sounds like you've moved on! Congratulations!

[BrnEyzR1]

+4 on moving on. Really happy for you, bike is beautiful! Have fun! :D:

[calico1062]

Congrats Adel! The new Bonnie is Gorgeous!! :yahoo: So glad you found a new bike to love and very happy that it worked out so well finding a new home for the Thruxton...(wow you're a good friend!). And you can still visit her when you want... WIN for sure. Yay!!

[Dualsport Chic]

Congrats Adel! The new Bonnie is Gorgeous!! :yahoo: So glad you found a new bike to love and very happy that it worked out so well finding a new home for the Thruxton...(wow you're a good friend!). And you can still visit her when you want... WIN for sure. Yay!!

:agreed:

[ImaSoftT]

Me 2

[kamilshka]

Omg how exciting! That T100 is *such* a handsome bike, you have made an excellent decision by the sounds of it! It sounds like a really fun bike, and man i'd love to hear the engine. Yay for you!! :D:

[TeamGreen]

Wow! amazing story! I'm proud of you for not giving up and finding your fit! I hope you have a blast!

[TeamGreen]

Wow! amazing story! I'm proud of you for not giving up and finding your fit! I hope you have a blast!

[PaintedMoon]

I think I'd trade that Triumph.

Little story about me. I love sportbikes. But they don't love me. This does not stop me from desiring one. I want a Ducati or an MV Agusta. But probably, my brains will override my heart and I won't do it. 'Cos I'm near 50, and I'd probably need a wrist transplant after about fifty feet. Hah!

Seriously, in 2008 I bought this 2008 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. It was bright screaming yellow, and I still call him the Yellow Peril, because he tried to kill me about three times. We had this love-hate thing going on. I loved him, but he hated me and showed it. Finally, my Beloved Hubby talked me into trading the Peril off for a Harley Superglide, which was one of the best motorcycling calls I've ever made. I loved the 'Glide for three years, and now, if I go back and get another Yellow Peril (Yeah, I know...dumb, but I miss the ol' Peril) or similar bike, I'll have a lot more confidence because I've had a lot of miles on a friendlier, less frenetic bike. The 'Glide was 96c.i., more than twice the weight and displacement, but it was like an old Southern gentleman next to the rice-rocket I'd been driving.

That said, I'll tell you what I most miss about the Yellow Peril: Riding the wind. When it was right...it was SO right. It was like flying. I never had that feel with the 'Glide, and it is on my bucket list to have that feeling again.

Right now, I'm not a rider, I'm a passenger, riding around in my throne on hubby's Tri-Glide Ultra Classic. And that's okay for now. I'm cool with it, enjoying the ride. But one day I want to ride the wind again. You'll feel the same, once you log a few miles on something a little friendlier. Betcha.

(edit) And you did! Congratulations. I like the Triumphs, great bikes. I drooooled over the 1200 Daytonas but the 675s sit up too high and the riding position is too aggressive for my personal comfort level at that height. Now, I tried out a BMW S-1000, and about drooled all over the bike. Very tasty ride. Hey, Triumph! Bring back the 1200 Daytona!

Ciao, Moon

[BrnEyzR1]

Little story about me. I love sportbikes. But they don't love me. This does not stop me from desiring one. I want a Ducati or an MV Agusta. But probably, my brains will override my heart and I won't do it. 'Cos I'm near 50, and I'd probably need a wrist transplant after about fifty feet. Hah!



Woulda, shoulda, coulda... :): 'You only live once'
I say go for it! Age is just a number and it's the way you hold yourself on the bike. No wrist problem here, you gotta use your legs!

[Unforgiven]

Woulda, shoulda, coulda... :): 'You only live once'
I say go for it! Age is just a number and it's the way you hold yourself on the bike. No wrist problem here, you gotta use your legs!

I'm almost 50 also but I would not trade my sportbikes for anything. I've crashed them on the street and track and keep coming back for more. Honestly, I'll ride anything on two wheels and I'm looking at a Goldwing or Harley (yes, I said it after saying I would never own a Harley) in the future but there will be sportbikes in the garage still. Nothing like the rush you get from really riding a sportbike on two wheels and occasionally one.

[BrnEyzR1]

I'm almost 50 also but I would not trade my sportbikes for anything. I've crashed them on the street and track and keep coming back for more. Honestly, I'll ride anything on two wheels and I'm looking at a Goldwing or Harley (yes, I said it after saying I would never own a Harley) in the future but there will be sportbikes in the garage still. Nothing like the rush you get from really riding a sportbike on two wheels and occasionally one.

:thumbsup:

[PaintedMoon]

Well, the prospective candidates are:

2012 MV Agusta F3
2010 MV Agusta F4 (if the dealer still has one in four months)
2011 Ducati 1198
2011+ Ducati 848 Evo
2012 Yamaha R1 (I want the one with the traction control if I get one)
2011+ Suzuki GSX-R 600 or 1000
2011+ Kawasaki ZX-10R
2012 HD FXDWG Wide Glide
2011+ BMW S1000RR
2010+ Honda VFR 1200F DCT

So....guess where this is heading? They're all about the same price range, too.

Ciao, Moon