The Ups and Downs of Motorcycle Riding
I have been riding for three years and I have never “went down”. Not to say that it will never happen, but becoming a pessimist will only cloud your judgement in the decision making process to ride. I had never thought about getting a motorcycle until a friend of mine purchased one of her own. I was not skeptical at all. I had just never consider riding a motorcycle before. When I bought my own bike and rode it for the first time, it was exhilarating! Even though I had taken a “Basic Riders Course” and gained experience, it was nothing like getting out and riding the open roads! I was finally able to apply all of the tools I learned in class.
Embarrassing Moments
Something happened to me while riding down a long stretch of a country highway. Simply put, I ran out of gas. Who does that? Well, apparently I do. Luckily, I was on a kawasaki 500 that had a fuel reserve. It will only get you about five miles and I was around eight miles from the city. I flipped the switch to use my reserve which took me to my cousin’s residence where I was taken to get gas. From that point on, I made sure to check my tank before riding.
After I traded the kawasaki in, I bought my current bike, a used GXS-R 750 as a gift to myself for completing seven years of Military service. I had on all my gear and was ready to ride, but it would not start. I called the shop where I bought it from and used some choice words at the man who sold me the bike. He calmly asked me, “Is the kickstand all the way up”? I was silent for about two seconds before I realized that it was not. He said, “Well ma’am, it’s a safety feature with that kind of bike…the kickstand has to be all the way up, or else it won’t start”. So, I pushed the kickstand up as far as it would go and sure enough, that was the problem. I probably should have read up on the bike and its features before I bought it.
I had been riding for about a year when I attempted to obtain my license. When I went to take my test the first time, I thought I was ready. I had practiced in my parking lot and was ready to pass. I arrived and I did well on the first few parts. Then, there was one section where I had to be really careful to stay inside the lines while maneuvering the bike. I drove completely through the lines and right into the grass. I failed. The tester even cringed a little bit. I came back two more times making improvements each time, then I finally got it. I was excited that I could finally add the “M” on my license! It took me three times, but I was determined.
Things to Know
I have been asked several times to teach people how to ride. I would always suggest that they take a course to make sure they learn everything they need to know as a beginner. Riding a bike looks cool, but education is a must. If you are planning to purchase a bike, below are useful tips.
Basic maintenance. I can maintain my bike just as well as I can maintain my car. I do this by letting someone else look at it! At the least, make sure you know how to check your tires and fuel.
A tire that is under inflated generates lots of heat, which can lead to your tire blowing out. Make sure they are properly inflated.
Fuel filters need to be replaced every two years if one comes with the bike. Check the manual for fuel type recommendations and what to do when storing.
Safety Gear. I have a permanent scar on my leg from a pipe burn because I did not have on proper safety attire.Gloves, jackets, and jeans have helped tremendously in the reduction of road rash and burns. I’m originally from South Carolina and according to SC state law, you are not required to wear a helmet. However, I’m sure any local law enforcement officer can paint a picture of the possible aftermath in the unfortunate event of a fall or crash with no helmet. Be smart!
Knowledge. Educate yourself as much as you can about riding, especially as a beginner. Learn from other people who have made costly mistakes. Just because they did, does not mean you have to. Do not go out and get the largest bike you can find because your friends have one. Do not try and keep up with the pack if you are uncomfortable at high speeds. Only you can maintain positive control of the bike.
Do your research before making any decisions on purchasing a bike. Try not to draw a conclusion based off of other people riding skills! Riding is fun, but be educated and be safe!
