New rider from Seattle

[BeachComber]

Hello All -

I'm new to riding but I visited this forum often while deciding on a first bike and it was very helpful.

I took/passed the MSF course and got my endorsement. I'm riding a shiny new metallic titanium EX500 and it has been a perfect first bike so far. I'm looking forward to sharing newbie adventures/mishaps with other new riders, and culling advice from the seasoned pros out there.

It's sunny in Seattle these days but the rains a-comin' so if you've got wet weather riding advice, I'd love to hear it

Thanks, and see you on the road!

[storysunfolding]

Welcome to the site. In the wet weather, be careful around metal and paint on the road, it's extra slick. Give yourself some more following space and otherwise ride like normal.

Rain gear is a plus and frog toggs work nicely

[Scoutmedic]

+1 to the advice above. Also, don't lean as much and slow down. Really, just common sense stuff. I ride in the rain all the time and don't find it too disconcerting.

Stay Safe Out There!

[BeachComber]

Thanks for the tips. On the last day of my MSF course it rained and we actually did our riding test in the rain, so I've done it in a parking lot, for whatever that's worth.

I'm sure it'll be fine - it's just a psychological thing. I want to ride the bike year-round in Seattle, so I'll get lots of practice on wet pavement

[Duane]

Hiya and welcome.

Guess my tip for riding in the rain is, slow down and ride in the grooves, can get pretty slick in the center.

I too am in Seattle, if you have any questions about gear or heck anything, the people at Seattle Cycle Center rock, Ryan has been a big help getting me geared up and getting accessories for the bike.

Ride safe and watch out for the cagers!

[blues2cruise]

Welcome to TMW.

Be careful of the wet leaves in the fall. They are very slick.

[Goulds]

...the people at Seattle Cycle Center rock.

Great place to do your shopping. Lots of times I'll ride to their shop instead even though there's one right down the street. They don't care what you're riding and they even impressed my girlfriend when she went in to look for a xmas present for me.

[BeachComber]

I got my riding jacket and boots at Seattle Cycle Center -- when I told them I was about to take the MSF course they hooked me up with a discount. The salesman was very helpful; I can't remember his name, though. I'll be shopping there again for sure.

While we're on the subject of where to go for riding stuff, are there any Seattle area bike service shops that have a particularly good/bad reputation?

[Fast Eddy B]

Stay warm. Extra layers, or heated vest.


Welcome!