I've ridden as a passenger many times since about age 16, and once about that same timeframe with a different friend, I [stupidly] drove his dual-purpose bike -- and his drunk butt -- home from Malibu to L.A. along the coast of Cali. I really enjoyed the rides in the first case. My friend had excellent control in the twisties and on the super-slab. In the second case, I don't think I ever talked to that guy again.
I'm 46 now and I've never gotten riding out of my spirit. About 4 years ago I had the chance to buy a '75 Honda Shadow on a spur-of-the-moment proposition. I went and got my motorcycle learner's permit. I didn't know anyone who rode well, I knew nothing of gear, and had no one to offer me advice or to "have my back." On the day I was to go look at and probably buy the bike, I cancelled out. My permit lapsed, and I never made another move toward learning to ride. Until this summer.
That's when I became re-introduced to riding by my BF. He told me about the MSF class and that they provided motorcycles and helmets. As an added plus, a holder of a valid VA driver's license gets to waive the DMV riding and written tests if they pass the course. I was planning to ride with him as a passenger anyway, so I bought a helmet, jacket, boots, and gloves (which are too slippery on my grips). I took the course too, and passed. Last weekend, I got my "M"!!
All during that time, I've been obsessively reading the 'net about all things two-wheeler. I bought my first bike a week ago: a used but beautiful red-on-black 2002 Yamaha V-Star 1100. She has Mustang seats, Cobra exhaust, and I just picked up a pair of hard Shoei saddlebags for 50 bucks which I'm reconditioning.
She's a big bike for a novice rider, but I won't get bored with her. I'm 5'7" with long legs and decent physical strength. My BF has ridden for years; he comes over and gets me out on the bike every chance we can get. We always have fun, and he always gives me honest , encouraging and useful critiques after our rides as we sit soaking up each other's company. I think he's going to try to get me on the super-slab next time... just a hunch.
So, that's an intro for you all. Glad to make your acquaintence!
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