Motorcycles

[Volt]

rant/on

Ok, I realize that motorcyclist may look like a really great target but I for one would hope you cagers out there would give us our 9' of space on the road.

Wed morning I was rear ended on the left side.
Thurs I almost had to kick in a door of a tailgater.
Today I was rear ended in the center rear fender.

I pay my taxes, so that means I get fair use of the road the same as anyone else.

rant/off

[newcigarz]

rant/on

Ok, I realize that motorcyclist may look like a really great target but I for one would hope you cagers out there would give us our 9' of space on the road.

Wed morning I was rear ended on the left side.
Thurs I almost had to kick in a door of a tailgater.
Today I was rear ended in the center rear fender.

I pay my taxes, so that means I get fair use of the road the same as anyone else.

rant/off

that sucks.
I just got back from a ride, it's dangerous out there.

[Tripp]

I hate tailgaters in general, but when I see someone tailgating a biker, it really pisses me off. Sorry to hear, Mike

[Steve]

Have you checked you back for a big bullseye??? :D

Seriously, that bites big ones! Be careful out there!

[JohnnyKay5]

time to install go go gadget machine guns and oil spray

[Psojka RP,601]

sorry man...

motorcycle riders do not get the respect they deserve.

Stay safe bro

[Darrell]

A buddy of mine was riding his bike from work when we were on Active Duty and this lady in a brand new MB was on her cell phone tried to merge into him because she was not paying attention. He swerved and got her attention and she flipped him off.

So he got up next to her and punched her brand new mirror off the car. :r

[Volt]

Well, the first accident the cop called for 1 back up. This morning the trooper called for 2 extra cars. Had to because the city wasn't even called by me. Just gotta love profiling.

I'm out of lugnuts, time to swing by the tire place and get some. Backs the tailgaters up real quick. I have no qualms dropping them, I don't have 3,500 lbs of cage wrapped around me with air bags and I intend to get home alive.

[Psojka RP,601]

A buddy of mine was riding his bike from work when we were on Active Duty and this lady in a brand new MB was on her cell phone tried to merge into him because she was not paying attention. He swerved and got her attention and she flipped him off.

So he got up next to her and punched her brand new mirror off the car. :r

Nice! :r

[Volt]

I can neither confirm or deny that I would ever kick in a car door..... I have heard though that they normally back off when you do though.

A buddy of mine was riding his bike from work when we were on Active Duty and this lady in a brand new MB was on her cell phone tried to merge into him because she was not paying attention. He swerved and got her attention and she flipped him off.

So he got up next to her and punched her brand new mirror off the car. :r

[LasciviousXXX]

The lugnuts are a really good idea btw. Not that I'm endorsing that :tu

My best friend (a Motor Cop) and best man at my wedding once said, ride like every car you see is actively trying to kill you.

[markem]

As a former motorcycle safety instructor with Team Oregon (rated top program in the country by NHTSA almost every year), I will point out that car drivers are trained by experience to look for large objects the size of cars. Since motorcycles and scooters and even bicycles are so infrequently used in our car culture, that's just operant conditioning. Not making excuses, just saying it like it is. While you have the right to your space, be proactive and make sure that you aren't "dead right".

My username used to be "vstromMark" and those who know about Suzuki dual sport bikes will recognize the Vstrom part. My fave bike is the DL650.

[nomadicwookie]

That's ridiculous man. I've been riding a few years now & my first week on the bike 3 different people almost ran me off of the road. I try to stay as far away from people as possible. They just don't care. When I'm stopped if I see a car in the rearview I tap my brakes to get there attention. If they could only ride a mile in our shoes. In the cage when I see road debris or something fly out the back of a truck I hope it doesn't mess up my car. On the bike I hope it doesn't kill me.

[kenstogie]

The lugnuts are a really good idea btw. Not that I'm endorsing that :tu

My best friend (a Motor Cop) and best man at my wedding once said, ride like every car you see is actively trying to kill you.

Ditto on the lugnuts. Not that I am endorsing that. ;)

I try (DO) where obnoxiously bright colors and have my thumb on the horn and ride very defensively. Even when they look right at you they don't see you somtimes.

[leasingthisspace]

I ride a 49cc scooter to work everyday. I live on post and only about 3 miles from work. The top speed on post is 30 and I can do that on the scooter but I have still been almost ran off the road a few times. It is crazy cuz there is so many MPs on this post and people still drive like they are brain dead.

When we got the scooter my wife wanted to ride it but then she actually got on the road with other cars and was so afraid she parked it and walked home.

[CheapHumidors]

I actually just bought a bike this past Saturday. I've never ridden before though so I'm working on getting a feel for it late at night with empty roads before I brave the crazy a$$ drivers we have down here. They scare me in my car, much more so I imagine on a bike.

[newcigarz]

I actually just bought a bike this past Saturday. I've never ridden before though so I'm working on getting a feel for it late at night with empty roads before I brave the crazy a$$ drivers we have down here. They scare me in my car, much more so I imagine on a bike.

Have you done the MSF?

[CheapHumidors]

Have you done the MSF?

On my to-do list. This week I've been just riding up and down the road in my neighborhood and turning around. Still haven't gotten around to finding a place and registering for the MSF course. Any recommendations on where?

[Trouble]

I have about 40K miles logged in on the street and tracks. My best advice would be to go 20MPH faster than traffic. If they start to merge into your lane you will be past them before they get far enough over to hit you.

I ride pretty conservative on the streets and light it up on the track. The extra speed on the road really helps you avoid sitting in someones blind spot and gives you more control.

It was already said but imagine everyone is going to do something crazy and you will avoid them the 25% of the time it actually happens.

[wolfandwhisky]

sorry to hear about your accidents - glad you're not severely injured.

[Steve]

I have about 40K miles logged in on the street and tracks. My best advice would be to go 20MPH faster than traffic. If they start to merge into your lane you will be past them before they get far enough over to hit you.

Back in the day when I was riding, that was basically the advice I was given by a Cycle Cop. Even driving my 10,000 lb truck, I usually try to go just a bit faster than those around me. Gives me a head start on getting out of trouble BEFORE trouble happens.

Frustrating thing is, I'm not really sure it's just motorcycles that people don't see these days. I can't tell you how many idiots try to merge into or pull out in front of me while I'm looking directly into their eyes. Put down the %$@))( phone and drive dangit!

Like I said, be careful out there!

[Cigary]

Sorry that all of this happened to you and as a motorcycle rider for 40 plus years I've pretty much seen it all. The post below here is something that every motorcyclist needs to heed because you cannot trust the drivers around you to be aware of your presence. Fundamentally drivers are not looking for motorcycles...they do not equate the space that a motorcycle takes up because of depth of field so they don't know or can't tell how fast a motorcycle is coming up so they end up turning right in front of you even though they look directly at you...friggin amazing. As you are traveling on the hiway in your lane they still do not look and switch lanes while they are talking on their f'n cell phones or texting.

I ride with the expectation that somebody is going to do something stupid...I drive defensively all the time and always have a secondary area to go to "just in case" something happens. I drive in the far right lane and let them pass me...easier to deal with watching only one lane rather than 2 lanes where they weave back and forth. I have a Cobra Exhaust so they can hear me...a full light bar so that they can see me.

Have some motorists tried to throw things at me...open their doors to try and be an a$$hole...veered their cars towards me so as to feign hitting me? Yes they have and they paid dearly for that. I do not drive offensively but there are motorists out there who for one reason or another do not like motorcyclists. I carry a mini crow bar in my saddlebag that is easily accessible just in case and I have used it a few times in total defense for those who tried to do me bodily harm...they are now missing headlights, side windows and mirrors and windshields. I'm not proud of it by any means but it took some extraordinary means to stop them from trying to run me off the road or hitting me.

QUOTE=markem;845533]As a former motorcycle safety instructor with Team Oregon (rated top program in the country by NHTSA almost every year), I will point out that car drivers are trained by experience to look for large objects the size of cars. Since motorcycles and scooters and even bicycles are so infrequently used in our car culture, that's just operant conditioning. Not making excuses, just saying it like it is. While you have the right to your space, be proactive and make sure that you aren't "dead right".

QUOTE]

Well said!!!

[SNKBYT]

have been riding for over 20 yrs in 4 states and here in FL seems to be the worst .... have had a few close calls over the years but loud pipes seem to get attention where as the car driver might not see you

so load pipes and a few lug nuts should do the trick (heard, seen, & felt if needed):D

[Steve]

BTW Alex, I love your sig!

[newcigarz]

On my to-do list. This week I've been just riding up and down the road in my neighborhood and turning around. Still haven't gotten around to finding a place and registering for the MSF course. Any recommendations on where?


http://nm.msf-usa.org/msf/ridercourses.aspx?state=FL

Looks like there are several choices in Tampa

[jmsremax]

On man, that is quite a story. That is why I enjoyed wearing gloves with the same C.E. rated armor as my jacket and if someone got too close I would punch their vehicle to let them know I was there.....aftermarket exhaust is clearly not enough these days. :rolleyes:

Glad you are ok.

[Volt]

I have absolutly no regrets or qualms about whatever I do when someone in a cage is trying to kill me or is putting me in harms way. It's way to dangerous in the norm without someone within a car's length of my fender. The bad part about this week is I just had no outs. Normally I leave myself an emergency out, but when I am looking left down the road to check oncoming traffic, not much I can do.

This $hit doesn't scare me off my scoot, I would not want to imagine living life and not riding, it's my sanity check. If ya don't ride - well I can't explain it. I normally ride between 18k and 24k a year so I'm aware of the hazards and do my best to avoid them.

On the MSF course, remember passing it just means your qualified to ride a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course. Riding IMO is a skill and uses skills. The more you ride, the sharper you stay and the more experience you have when $hit goes south. I like your crow bar, I have an asp I have been trying to find a spot to mount it to. And before anyone wants to "judge" wether it's a good idea or not:

I'ld rather be judged by 12 than carried by six.

Tonight I'll be in the shed with a cigar and a bourbon cooling down, life as a target this week has sucked.

Sorry that all of this happened to you and as a motorcycle rider for 40 plus years I've pretty much seen it all. The post below here is something that every motorcyclist needs to heed because you cannot trust the drivers around you to be aware of your presence. Fundamentally drivers are not looking for motorcycles...they do not equate the space that a motorcycle takes up because of depth of field so they don't know or can't tell how fast a motorcycle is coming up so they end up turning right in front of you even though they look directly at you...friggin amazing. As you are traveling on the hiway in your lane they still do not look and switch lanes while they are talking on their f'n cell phones or texting.

I ride with the expectation that somebody is going to do something stupid...I drive defensively all the time and always have a secondary area to go to "just in case" something happens. I drive in the far right lane and let them pass me...easier to deal with watching only one lane rather than 2 lanes where they weave back and forth. I have a Cobra Exhaust so they can hear me...a full light bar so that they can see me.

Have some motorists tried to throw things at me...open their doors to try and be an a$$hole...veered their cars towards me so as to feign hitting me? Yes they have and they paid dearly for that. I do not drive offensively but there are motorists out there who for one reason or another do not like motorcyclists. I carry a mini crow bar in my saddlebag that is easily accessible just in case and I have used it a few times in total defense for those who tried to do me bodily harm...they are now missing headlights, side windows and mirrors and windshields. I'm not proud of it by any means but it took some extraordinary means to stop them from trying to run me off the road or hitting me.

QUOTE=markem;845533]As a former motorcycle safety instructor with Team Oregon (rated top program in the country by NHTSA almost every year), I will point out that car drivers are trained by experience to look for large objects the size of cars. Since motorcycles and scooters and even bicycles are so infrequently used in our car culture, that's just operant conditioning. Not making excuses, just saying it like it is. While you have the right to your space, be proactive and make sure that you aren't "dead right".

QUOTE]

Well said!!!

[Steve]

Tonight I'll be in the shed with a cigar and a bourbon cooling down, life as a target this week has sucked.

:tu:tu

:chr

[MikeyRocks]

Keep a pocket full of pennies.....

[newcigarz]

On the MSF course, remember passing it just means your qualified to ride a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course.

passing also means you can get your license in Florida, kinda need to take it.

[Volt]

passing also means you can get your license in Florida, kinda need to take it.

I ride with 3 MSF instructors, even they tell the students although thay passed the course and it will qualify as the riding portion for the State exam, don't let passing the course give you the false sense that you can ride safely on the streets. Huge difference between a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course with 2 instructors and a 6 lane interstate, 96 ci bike, and cars trying to get you. Too many leave thinking the are set for the real world with that card in hand. It's not a bad place to start, but is all it is, a start.

[leasingthisspace]

I ride with 3 MSF instructors, even they tell the students although thay passed the course and it will qualify as the riding portion for the State exam, don't let passing the course give you the false sense that you can ride safely on the streets. Huge difference between a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course with 2 instructors and a 6 lane interstate, 96 ci bike, and cars trying to get you. Too many leave thinking the are set for the real world with that card in hand. It's not a bad place to start, but is all it is, a start.

I really want a "big boy bike" but I wasn't ready to put down the money to just see if I would like it. My 50cc scooter isn't cool but I know I want to ride so right now it gets me to and from work and I save the gas money for a real motorcycle. With the scooter since it is a 50cc I don't need the course or anything to ride. I know before I go take the course I will be ready.

[newcigarz]

I ride with 3 MSF instructors, even they tell the students although thay passed the course and it will qualify as the riding portion for the State exam, don't let passing the course give you the false sense that you can ride safely on the streets. Huge difference between a 250cc motorcycle on a closed course with 2 instructors and a 6 lane interstate, 96 ci bike, and cars trying to get you. Too many leave thinking the are set for the real world with that card in hand. It's not a bad place to start, but is all it is, a start.

No doubt that riding in the real world is different. But I think the MSF does a great job.
I never rode before moving to Florida from CT. I knew that once I got here though that a motorcycle was in my future. I took the course, got my endorsement and bought a Ducati 696 the next week.
I have 9,700 miles on the clock now.

Also passing the MSF is all you need in Florida. Just take the card down to DMF pay the fee and you have your endorsement. No Exam. Plus you get a discount on insurance.

[weak_link]

Glad you are safe. Another 20 year rider here and I'm convinced there is a big douchebaggery magnet strapped to the chassis of my bike that attracts cars and forces them to do dumb things. Keep your head on a swivel and no *****footing around out there!

[SNKBYT]

time & experience is the best teacher :2
but also keeping your head on a swivel doesn't hurt either

[newcigarz]

time & experience is the best teacher :2
but also keeping your head on a swivel doesn't hurt either

speaking of which, I need to spend some time riding up your way.

[SNKBYT]

speaking of which, I need to spend some time riding up your way.

yes you do ..... its been to long buddy ..... I've got rum & cigars, come on up anytime during the week.

[weak_link]

So who's coming out to California to ride this summer? Moto-herf anyone?

[Volt]

I really want a "big boy bike" but I wasn't ready to put down the money to just see if I would like it. My 50cc scooter isn't cool but I know I want to ride so right now it gets me to and from work and I save the gas money for a real motorcycle. With the scooter since it is a 50cc I don't need the course or anything to ride. I know before I go take the course I will be ready.

Tabb, if you don't mind my :2. Make your first bike from 750 - to 1400 cc. Get it used. The average rider is 2,500 - 5000 miles a year, garage kept and never seen the rain. A great place to get some deals and you don't pay the depreciation. It's a good way to see if you will like the "hobby" or if it becomes a lifestyle.and Never buy anything I sell, they are rode hard and I put them up wet, tired but happy.


Glad you are safe. Another 20 year rider here and I'm convinced there is a big douchebaggery magnet strapped to the chassis of my bike that attracts cars and forces them to do dumb things. Keep your head on a swivel and no *****footing around out there!

Yea, my gremlin bell has been in overdrive this week. I may have to chrome it as a way of saying thanks. :D

[Cigary]

So who's coming out to California to ride this summer? Moto-herf anyone?

Man, if I was still living in San Diego full time I'd be all over this like a cheap mohair suit.

[neoflex]

Don't feel bad. I was at a stop sign about a month ago when the car in front me decided to back into me Turned out the two guys in the car were illegal and not licensed and were begging me to not call the cops. Too bad for them as I was checking out my bike for damage and they were pleading for me to not call the police a trooper happened to roll up to the stop sign. So I flagged him down explained what happened and let him deal with them. Fortunately no damage to the bike as I was heads up enough to lower the bike as he came into me so the bike went under his bumper rather than into it. Plus riding a supermoto does have it's bonuses when it comes to crashes. Once I figured out my bike was solid minus a couple slight scratches in some of the plastics I walked over to the Trooper and said "My bikes good, you need me?" He responded with "Nope, your done here these guys aren't. You can head out." What really pissed me off is after they backed into me they actually laughed about it so I have no sympathy for them.

[leasingthisspace]

Tabb, if you don't mind my :2. Make your first bike from 750 - to 1400 cc. Get it used. The average rider is 2,500 - 5000 miles a year, garage kept and never seen the rain. A great place to get some deals and you don't pay the depreciation. It's a good way to see if you will like the "hobby" or if it becomes a lifestyle.and Never buy anything I sell, they are rode hard and I put them up wet, tired but happy.

That's what I am going to be going for a 750-800cc cruizer.
I got the scooter to see if I liked being on the road with other people. Like you said it is way easier to ride around some cones in a parking lot then it is to be on the road with the cones be 10 times your size driving at you.

[G G]

I too try to drive mine like everyone is trying to kill me.:tu

[weak_link]

Just for kicks here a 'fun' accident story. Guy on our motorcycle board was commuting from from San Francisco crossing over the Bay Bridge on his KLR. A van punted him over the railling. Yes, like 40 feet down and over the side. He lands on a parked SUV down below. Broken ribs, torn spleen, cracked back, some other 'minor' issues but he's alive. The suspension and smashed roof of the SUV saved his life. Guy spends a few weeks in the hospital and is now home about to start rehab to get back to walking. While he's in a ton of pain, he's supposed to make a full recovery.
So what did we learn? NOthing but it's an interesting accident.

[Volt]

That's what I am going to be going for a 750-800cc cruizer.
I got the scooter to see if I liked being on the road with other people. Like you said it is way easier to ride around some cones in a parking lot then it is to be on the road with the cones be 10 times your size driving at you.

I would recommend the Honda Shadow 750 then. Couple of different looks to pick from. Most folks pimp them out to the max in chrome (which doesn't count in the price). Beautiful balance, small enough to learn on, but still powerful enough if you want to get up on the interstate safely. It does get a little buzzy around 70 - 75 mph but runs strong, even two up with the wife. I rode one for ~20k miles and loved it. A lot out there to pick up cheap as the original owner moves up to a bigger scoot.

[Volt]

I too try to drive mine like everyone is trying to kill me.:tu

Oh they are, it's just your defense that will keep you alive.

[Partagaspete]

Taking a MSF course his weekend and then I will be lookng to get either a

Vulcan 900
Sazuki 800
Honda 750

To get into riding again after mny many years away. Fortunately Delaware is a huge biker state (fr such a small state) so most people either ride or know a rider.

[kgraybill]

I ride in and around Atlanta, almost every time I ride someone tries to take me out. Over the years I have learned to pick out potential hazardous drivers and I aways try to go through an intersection along side a car.

I saw one of my friend kick a car door while riding. Luckly we we going slow because it threw him off the bike.

Stay Safe Y'all.

[Resipsa]

but also keeping your head on a swivel doesn't hurt either:tu

As others have said, expect people to not see you, and you'll be a lot safer.

On the highway I give myself plenty of space. In the city everytime I approach an intersection I simply assume somebody is going to blow the stop sign, blow the redlight, turn in front of me.....

Saved my ass any number of times.

[Cigary]

Taking a MSF course his weekend and then I will be lookng to get either a

Vulcan 900
Sazuki 800
Honda 750

To get into riding again after mny many years away. Fortunately Delaware is a huge biker state (fr such a small state) so most people either ride or know a rider.

All 3 are good rides but I am partial to the Honda 750. Easy to work on... easy to ride and runs for years without any breakdowns. I have owned 3 Honda motorcycles and they just run and run and run. I traded a Suzuki in for my current bike and it ran great as well.

I ride in and around Atlanta, almost every time I ride someone tries to take me out. Over the years I have learned to pick out potential hazardous drivers and I aways try to go through an intersection along side a car.

I saw one of my friend kick a car door while riding. Luckly we we going slow because it threw him off the bike.

Stay Safe Y'all.

I completely agree with you. Everytime I go downtown invariably I run into these same jagoffs as well and use the same method as you do...use another car as a buffer or shield. We'll have to set up a time for a cigar next time you are downtown...some great cigar places that I visit.

[Resipsa]

Taking a MSF course his weekend and then I will be lookng to get either a

Vulcan 900
Sazuki 800
Honda 750

To get into riding again after mny many years away. Fortunately Delaware is a huge biker state (fr such a small state) so most people either ride or know a rider.Pete, Just picked up a 2007 Vulcan 900. Love it. It's replaced my old, trusted '86 Yamaha Maxim.
the Suzuki C50, which I think is the 800 you're talking about, is it's main competition, they are both great bikes but in the end I preferred the Vulcan.

If you have any questions about the Vulcan let me know and I'll try to help

[bigpedunn]

Stay safe , we are going on a run today!

[Volt]

Ditto, should be 40 - 50 of us on a memorial ride today. Clear and warm weather, should be good as long as I don't get re-ended again.

[floydpink]

That's what I am going to be going for a 750-800cc cruizer.
I got the scooter to see if I liked being on the road with other people. Like you said it is way easier to ride around some cones in a parking lot then it is to be on the road with the cones be 10 times your size driving at you.

If I didn't have a Fatboy, it would be a Suzuki Boulevard in that size.

Nice cruiser in that range and lots of used ones on the market hardley ridden.

[jmsremax]

If I didn't have a Fatboy, it would be a Suzuki Boulevard in that size.

Nice cruiser in that range and lots of used ones on the market hardley ridden.

In that size/style I am a big fan of the Honda VTX.

But for now I will stick to supersport bikes.

[Volt]

In that size/style I am a big fan of the Honda VTX.

But for now I will stick to supersport bikes.


Supposedly the VTX 1800 is done for. No more. Honda killed the Valk and the VTX 1800, nothing is allowed to dare impact the sales of the holy grail Goldwing. Problem is, as supior to all other motorcycles as it is, not all want to ride a tupperware motorcycle. I had a VTX 1300, outstanding motorcycle.

[floydpink]

Supposedly the VTX 1800 is done for. No more. Honda killed the Valk and the VTX 1800, nothing is allowed to dare impact the sales of the holy grail Goldwing. Problem is, as supior to all other motorcycles as it is, not all want to ride a tupperware motorcycle. I had a VTX 1300, outstanding motorcycle.

I'm in that club.

Been a week since I've ridden my Harley as it's in for one of those $500 services they recommend every 10k miles.

Also getting all 3 fluids changed that they need opposed to the 1 a metric needs.

Gotten tighten a bunch of stuff as well that rattles loose on those damn hogs.

What was it called agin? A Valk?

[weak_link]

I'm in that club.

Been a week since I've ridden my Harley as it's in for one of those $500 services they recommend every 10k miles.

Also getting all 3 fluids changed that they need opposed to the 1 a metric needs.

Gotten tighten a bunch of stuff as well that rattles loose on those damn hogs.

What was it called agin? A Valk?

Austrian bikes aren't much better. My KTM supermoto has 3 oil filters and you have to 'burp' the frame as well since it carries oil in the head tube. Getting the lower filter cover off the bike is a major p.i.t.a. and can take me 5 minutes or 25 minutes depending how how much of a pest it wants to be. It's a big single cylinder and vibrates like crazy. Emergency zip tie repairs have been knows to happen on several occasions when things vibrate off the bike in the middle on nowhere. :r

[neoflex]

Austrian bikes aren't much better. My KTM supermoto has 3 oil filters and you have to 'burp' the frame as well since it carries oil in the head tube. Getting the lower filter cover off the bike is a major p.i.t.a. and can take me 5 minutes or 25 minutes depending how how much of a pest it wants to be. It's a big single cylinder and vibrates like crazy. Emergency zip tie repairs have been knows to happen on several occasions when things vibrate off the bike in the middle on nowhere. :r
But the best part is, if you lay it down chances are as long as your still in good enough shape to get back on it, she'll be A-OK to hop on and continue your ride. Not too many bikes that have that perk.

[floydpink]

I have crash bars to rest my feet on as well as keep my 850 pound bike off my scrawny frame if I lay it down.

[Volt]

I'm in that club.

Been a week since I've ridden my Harley as it's in for one of those $500 services they recommend every 10k miles.

Also getting all 3 fluids changed that they need opposed to the 1 a metric needs.

Gotten tighten a bunch of stuff as well that rattles loose on those damn hogs.

What was it called agin? A Valk?


A Valkyrie - Cruiser look with the older 1400 cc Goldwing engine. Verra fast.

No need to pay to change oils, stupid simple even for a nerd like me. I run synth Amsoil - $$ but good stuff.

[floydpink]

A Valkyrie - Cruiser look with the older 1400 cc Goldwing engine. Verra fast.

No need to pay to change oils, stupid simple even for a nerd like me. I run synth Amsoil - $$ but good stuff.

I also swear by Amsoil 20/50 in the engine and primary and Redline Heavy shockproof in the tranny. Harleys are famous from rough shifting and being a little tricky to find neutral sometimes and the Redline solved both of those problems.

It probably could go longer, but mine gets drained every 5,000 miles. I consider it cheap insurance.

I take it in because I obsess over stuff that I could probably do myself but like them to do.

Also, I have a HD credit card and get HD dollars back for purchases so don't actually pay, I suppose.

[Volt]

I run the 20/50 in all 3 fluids. No issues. I am on my last oil change for the winter. The book allows for 50 for the summer higher temps. Last year the oil pressure was dropping too much for my liking as it thinned out in the 90/100 degree heat. Low oil = many expensive problems.

[floydpink]

Yeah, a lot of people use 20/50 in all 3 holes, but in Central Florida's heat, I feel better with the heavy stuff in the tranny.

Then again, you won't find may dead motorcycles that died from the oil their owner used. Just ones that the owner didn't change the oil.

I will say that since switching to Amsoil, my bike runs about 30 degrees cooler.

I love the oil, just not many of the independent dealers who sell it like it's holy water.

[BroncoHorvath]

For all you riders, be safe. I used to owned a 1996 HD. I bought it because most of my friends had bikes an used to go for Sunday rides.
One of my buddies (Mike) bugged his wife and she finally gave in and bought one. Then one Sunday afternoon on the way up to Mont-Tremblant(North on Montreal), we were 7 couples riding, and I was the third bike and Mike was riding 7th, and a drunk driver came from behind with his pickup truck and ran right into them killing his wife instantly and almost taking another bike out also. After that dark Sunday, I parked my bike and eventually sold it in 1998 with only 346 KMS on it. I would love to get another one, but I seen a bad accident last summer and that reminded me of that dark Sunday in 1996 and decided not get another one.

[Volt]

Yeah, a lot of people use 20/50 in all 3 holes, but in Central Florida's heat, I feel better with the heavy stuff in the tranny.

Then again, you won't find may dead motorcycles that died from the oil their owner used. Just ones that the owner didn't change the oil.

I will say that since switching to Amsoil, my bike runs about 30 degrees cooler.

I love the oil, just not many of the independent dealers who sell it like it's holy water.


Pay your dealer teh $20 for the Amsoil dealer card. Between what I use and the oil I buy for my friends I easily make that money back in 6 months. Last case I bought was $30 off with my card.

[Volt]

If your not comfortable on one, then you have made the correct choice. On 2 whheels is not the time to be second guessing. I'm one of the types that thinks when the lord calls me, what I am doing will not matter. Besides, going out on my scoot beats being 80, spit dribbling down my chin, and not knowing my name.

For all you riders, be safe. I used to owned a 1996 HD. I bought it because most of my friends had bikes an used to go for Sunday rides.
One of my buddies (Mike) bugged his wife and she finally gave in and bought one. Then one Sunday afternoon on the way up to Mont-Tremblant(North on Montreal), we were 7 couples riding, and I was the third bike and Mike was riding 7th, and a drunk driver came from behind with his pickup truck and ran right into them killing his wife instantly and almost taking another bike out also. After that dark Sunday, I parked my bike and eventually sold it in 1998 with only 346 KMS on it. I would love to get another one, but I seen a bad accident last summer and that reminded me of that dark Sunday in 1996 and decided not get another one.

[Cigary]

For all you riders, be safe. I used to owned a 1996 HD. I bought it because most of my friends had bikes an used to go for Sunday rides.
One of my buddies (Mike) bugged his wife and she finally gave in and bought one. Then one Sunday afternoon on the way up to Mont-Tremblant(North on Montreal), we were 7 couples riding, and I was the third bike and Mike was riding 7th, and a drunk driver came from behind with his pickup truck and ran right into them killing his wife instantly and almost taking another bike out also. After that dark Sunday, I parked my bike and eventually sold it in 1998 with only 346 KMS on it. I would love to get another one, but I seen a bad accident last summer and that reminded me of that dark Sunday in 1996 and decided not get another one.

Have heard similar stories and know friends who have been killed on motorcycles and it's always a sad thing. I refuse to live in fear of things that can happen in life. I also know people who were killed in automobiles...killed riding their bicycles...walking down the road and hit by another car. I also know people who died when they drank too much and then choked on their own vomit. There are no guarantees in life whatsoever and living in fear as I said has got to be the most paralyzing feeling I've ever experienced. I am as careful as I can be and use common sense when I ride...I can't imagine being a slave to your fears and feeling that is some kind of life. Been there done that before. Life is for the living.

[floydpink]

Amen Gary.

Not the length of one's life, it's the experiences.

Probably a few here would agree.

[SeanGAR]

Drive like you're invisible, be ever vigilant, and get the heck out of potential danger proactively.

It also helps to have one of these visible and easy to grab if needed.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/57/Klassischer-Flegel.jpg/220px-Klassischer-Flegel.jpg

Painting the ball red & green would provide a festive appearance.

An upgraded horn makes a lot of sense too .. a friend of mine put something on his Yamaha that sounded like an 18 wheeler. Sure as heck got people's attention fast.

[Tripp]

Though we can't really afford it, we're planning on buying 2 (probably sport) bikes in the summer after we get married. Any tips on what the timeline should look like for getting permits/licenses/training? We're a little lost on where to start, and don't actually know much about motorcycles other than we want to ride them. ;)

[Volt]

My .02 and all that it might be worth:

1. If you have never ridden before the MSF is a decent place to learn. But understand that when done your qualified to ride a 250 cc motorcycle on a closed course with instructors. Yes it may go towards teh state license, but it does not make you experienced.

2. Sport bikes "can" be very difficult as a first bike. Basically they are de-tuned race bikes. 300 lbs nothing and a huge power plant, ride them with respect, if not, well parts are easily replaced but body parts not so much.

3. I normally do not buy used vechicles but motorcycles are my exception. Short of being in a wreck, most people baby them so much. you can find good deals.

4. Protective gear, the more you wear, the less it hurts when you put it done. Not an isse with most sport bike types. They tend to like matching bike, jackets, helmets, etc.

5. It's not if you will put it down, but when. Just a fact of life. I have dropped 2 of mine and dumped a trird when I grabbed too much front brake in a turn. Dumb **** mistakes can make you a better rider even if they are a bit embarissing.

As to you time line question, all depends on how backed up the class sched is. Good luck, it can be a great hobby/life style if done right.

[weak_link]

My .02 and all that it might be worth:

1. If you have never ridden before the MSF is a decent place to learn. But understand that when done your qualified to ride a 250 cc motorcycle on a closed course with instructors. Yes it may go towards teh state license, but it does not make you experienced.

2. Sport bikes "can" be very difficult as a first bike. Basically they are de-tuned race bikes. 300 lbs nothing and a huge power plant, ride them with respect, if not, well parts are easily replaced but body parts not so much.

3. I normally do not buy used vechicles but motorcycles are my exception. Short of being in a wreck, most people baby them so much. you can find good deals.

4. Protective gear, the more you wear, the less it hurts when you put it done. Not an isse with most sport bike types. They tend to like matching bike, jackets, helmets, etc.

5. It's not if you will put it down, but when. Just a fact of life. I have dropped 2 of mine and dumped a trird when I grabbed too much front brake in a turn. Dumb **** mistakes can make you a better rider even if they are a bit embarissing.

As to you time line question, all depends on how backed up the class sched is. Good luck, it can be a great hobby/life style if done right.

Great post and I'm glad you brought up gear. I'm an all gear all the time kinda guy and have been saved the trouble of skin grafts on more than one occasion.

[jmsremax]

My .02 and all that it might be worth:


2. Sport bikes "can" be very difficult as a first bike. Basically they are de-tuned race bikes. 300 lbs nothing and a huge power plant, ride them with respect, if not, well parts are easily replaced but body parts not so much.

3. I normally do not buy used vechicles but motorcycles are my exception. Short of being in a wreck, most people baby them so much. you can find good deals.

4. Protective gear, the more you wear, the less it hurts when you put it done. Not an isse with most sport bike types. They tend to like matching bike, jackets, helmets, etc.



2. The scary thing about the 600cc bikes is they only put on race tires and exhaust. They are not detuned....from factory they are meant to be on the track.

3. I have to disagree....I would never buy a used motorcycle. You never know if it's been dumped and someone simply changed fairings or if the tool was a wheelie junkie (my view is based on street bikes).

4. I couldn't agree with you more.

:2

[floydpink]

My .02 and all that it might be worth:

1. If you have never ridden before the MSF is a decent place to learn. But understand that when done your qualified to ride a 250 cc motorcycle on a closed course with instructors. Yes it may go towards teh state license, but it does not make you experienced.

2. Sport bikes "can" be very difficult as a first bike. Basically they are de-tuned race bikes. 300 lbs nothing and a huge power plant, ride them with respect, if not, well parts are easily replaced but body parts not so much.

3. I normally do not buy used vechicles but motorcycles are my exception. Short of being in a wreck, most people baby them so much. you can find good deals.

4. Protective gear, the more you wear, the less it hurts when you put it done. Not an isse with most sport bike types. They tend to like matching bike, jackets, helmets, etc.

5. It's not if you will put it down, but when. Just a fact of life. I have dropped 2 of mine and dumped a trird when I grabbed too much front brake in a turn. Dumb **** mistakes can make you a better rider even if they are a bit embarissing.

As to you time line question, all depends on how backed up the class sched is. Good luck, it can be a great hobby/life style if done right.

Don't agree with 5, and hope I don't jinx myself.

I've had motorcycles since 1981 and never dropped one. Came close, but never dropped one.

I've read this statement on a few motorcycle forums and think it's BS, but also read that once you say never, a spill is around the corner.

[Resipsa]

There's no problem with buying a used bike, particularly if you're buying a cruiser/tourer. Pretty easy to be able to tell if the bike has been taken care of or not.

I would, however, never buy a used sport bike. I've got eyes, I'm on the road all the time and I see the way people ride and abuse them. No thanks.

And I completely disagree with the notion that crashes are a "not if, when" scenario. I've been riding a long time and have never been down.

Ride with awareness, within your skill set, not like an asshat, expect the unexpected and you should be fine.:)

[weak_link]

I've only bought one new bike and I thought it was a big waste of money. Much better values buying used if you are careful.

[floydpink]

There's no problem with buying a used bike, particularly if you're buying a cruiser/tourer. Pretty easy to be able to tell if the bike has been taken care of or not.

I would, however, never buy a used sport bike. I've got eyes, I'm on the road all the time and I see the way people ride and abuse them. No thanks.

And I completely disagree with the notion that crashes are a "not if, when" scenario. I've been riding a long time and have never been down.

Ride with awareness, within your skill set, not like an asshat, expect the unexpected and you should be fine.:)

I wouldn't buy a new one either.;) Looks like you're humping a dog bent over taking a dump.

The "not if, when" statement sorta makes me think that if you smoke cigars, it's not a question of "if" but "when" you'll develop mouth cancer, or "if you fly in an airplane".... (you get the idea)

Just a very general statement with absolutely nothing to back it up with as far as facts or statistics. Also puts unnecessary fear into cautious but superstitious bikers.

[weak_link]

I wouldn't buy a new one either.;) Looks like you're humping a dog bent over taking a dump.

)

Meh- they are just tools and you gotta have the right tool for the task at hand. I wouldn't want to do a bunch of trackdays on a Fatboy, would you? :r

http://ericloranger.com/IMG_8546-400.jpg

[floydpink]

Meh- they are just tools and you gotta have the right tool for the task at hand. I wouldn't want to do a bunch of trackdays on a Fatboy, would you? :r

http://ericloranger.com/IMG_8546-400.jpg

Yikes!! trackdays on a Fatboy?? I scrape floorboards on a u-turn.

Just the thought of it makes me cringe; almost as badly of the thought of arriving to bike night on rice wearing a matching helmet and padded pants.:r

[Volt]

Feel free to disagree, I have no problems and wish you the best of luck. But in the past 2 years I know a MSF instructor (one of the safest riders I know) and a rider of over 35 years had a car pull out in front of him a 2 years ago and a school bus pulled out in front of him a year ago. Not a damn thing he could do in either case. Less than 30 feet to react in both instances.

Tbone on here who has been riding 25 years plus had a deer jump out in front of him this year. While we hope to never go down, to expect a accident free or even a dumb **** free life riding is a bit of living in a dream world. I'll stand by, you may have not gone done yet, I hope you never go down, but I know where I would put my money. A lot of situations happen we have no control over.

Don't agree with 5, and hope I don't jinx myself.

I've had motorcycles since 1981 and never dropped one. Came close, but never dropped one.

I've read this statement on a few motorcycle forums and think it's BS, but also read that once you say never, a spill is around the corner.

There's no problem with buying a used bike, particularly if you're buying a cruiser/tourer. Pretty easy to be able to tell if the bike has been taken care of or not.

I would, however, never buy a used sport bike. I've got eyes, I'm on the road all the time and I see the way people ride and abuse them. No thanks.

And I completely disagree with the notion that crashes are a "not if, when" scenario. I've been riding a long time and have never been down.

Ride with awareness, within your skill set, not like an asshat, expect the unexpected and you should be fine.:)

[icehog3]

80+ posts and the motorcycle haters haven't come out yet. I must say I am pleasantly suprised. :)

[SeanGAR]

80+ posts and the motorcycle haters haven't come out yet. I must say I am pleasantly suprised. :)

Nothing annoys me more, when I'm out riding my tricycle, than a motorcycle driver roaring by waving at me like they're my mom.

Yeah I know I look cool on my sweet ride ... but come on, what's up with that?

http://blogs.bellinghamherald.com/media/blogs/jared/biketoworkday011.jpg

[jmsremax]

Nothing annoys me more, when I'm out riding my tricycle, than a motorcycle driver roaring by waving at me like they're my mom.

Yeah I know I look cool on my sweet ride ... but come on, what's up with that?



:r


Ok I must admit.....every once in a while when driving home (I live at the top of a hill) if I saw someone struggling to get up the hill I would pretend to be "pedaling" up the hill on my motorcycle.

Note: I only did this if I recognized the person.

[floydpink]

Nothing annoys me more, when I'm out riding my tricycle, than a motorcycle driver roaring by waving at me like they're my mom.

Yeah I know I look cool on my sweet ride ... but come on, what's up with that?

http://blogs.bellinghamherald.com/media/blogs/jared/biketoworkday011.jpg

Funny you mention the wave.

For all the toughness so many bikers try to portray, I never saw anything mentioned more than the wave,who to wave to, how to wave, blah blah blah when I was reading a popular biker forum.

Is it two fingers straight down? Do you wave to Japanese bikes? Do you wave when your hand is on the clutch? Do you stop waving at bike rallies or wave at 400,000 fellow bikers?

Totally lame and although I love my HD, I will wave to, talk to, help and try to respect ANYONE out riding and enjoying the lifestyle.

[jmsremax]

Funny you mention the wave.


Is it two fingers straight down? Do you wave to Japanese bikes? Do you wave when your hand is on the clutch? Do you stop waving at bike rallies or wave at 400,000 fellow bikers?

Totally lame and although I love my HD, I will wave to, talk to, help and try to respect ANYONE out riding and enjoying the lifestyle.

I give a few fingers to anyone regardless of what they ride but some on cruisers don't wave back (I'm on a sportbike).

[markem]

Is it two fingers straight down? Do you wave to Japanese bikes? Do you wave when your hand is on the clutch? Do you stop waving at bike rallies or wave at 400,000 fellow bikers?

I think that this article says it best

http://www.ekho.com/elton/PC800/The%20Wave.htm

[Trouble]

Meh- they are just tools and you gotta have the right tool for the task at hand. I wouldn't want to do a bunch of trackdays on a Fatboy, would you? :r

http://ericloranger.com/IMG_8546-400.jpg


Nice pic. Dragging some knee. What track is that?

[icehog3]

I give the low wave to everyone, HD or Honda, Cruiser or Crotch Rocket, American, Japanese, German, whatever. I liked the link, Mark. :tu

[weak_link]

Nice pic. Dragging some knee. What track is that?


Sears Point, now they call it Infinion. I refuse to call it that though. :D

fwiw I wave to everyone.