Comments on: When the Handlebars Are in Your Hands

By: Donna

Donna — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 17:22:15 +0000

I just purchased a 2006 1200 Sportster Custom Low and am so so excited about riding it, I don't have but a little experience riding. I am real glad for these post, I feel the way ya'll are talking, will take my time, get comfortable and when I FEEL SECURE, then will take bigger steps but until then the BIG empty parking lot is sufficient!!! Thanks

By: Tina

Tina — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 20:46:59 +0000

Thank you Luvs2Ride…do you live in ABQ? Have we met?
You can email me at harleyskyangel@comcast.net.

By: Luvs2Ride

Luvs2Ride — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:13:17 +0000

Tina great article. I have followed you when you were with Thunder Roads now with US Rider and American Women Riders. What a talent you have and are able to share that with others! Kuddo's to you!

By: Wayne Busch

Wayne Busch — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 13:16:52 +0000

Thanks for the article Tina. More women need to make the leap off the back seat and onto one of their own - not only is the view better, but you're in control, the way it should be. You can not only master a cycle, you can embrace the freedom it brings. Women are not second class riders to be confined to the back seat! My recent post The Best Motorcycle Rides NORTH of Great Smoky Mountains National Park – NEW MAP

By: Doyle

Doyle — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 02:35:46 +0000

I only got into serious trouble twice. Once when I had a tire blow on the front at 70 and totaled it by wrapping it around a tree. I was able to get off just before the cycle hit and all I got was skinned up. The other time I was cutting up ad stood the bike up on the rear wheel at and intersection and hit an oil slick and went down. Tore the cartilage loose in my left knee and was in a cast for month and half.
My advice is don't think you can master a cycle. It will stomp on you every time.:)

By: carolann

carolann — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 23:35:13 +0000

Great advice MSF! Don't feel pressured into riding beyond what you are comfortable with. If you're with a group, let them know before you take off, if you fall behind, you'll catch up. If your up front, I think most people respect that. I live in a pretty high traffic area. Lot's of tourists. I always scan the intersections when I come up on them. I never take for granted that just because a driver makes eye contact, that they will stop. Before taking off from a redlight. I always look both ways, making sure no one is trying to save a second by running the light.

By: MSFRider

MSFRider — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:04:08 +0000

Great advice Tina. I taught MSF courses for 14 years. Many of the riders that get in trouble allow someone else tell them how to ride their ride. Your advice of getting comfortable with their bike, getting practice OFF the road and in a safe, secure location is right on. Further is to not let ANYONE intimidate you into riding beyond what YOU feel your limits are. The more you ride and practice, the better you will get. Your advice can fit the ladies but also fits the men as well..

By: Tina

Tina — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 19:29:44 +0000

Always Ride Within YOUR Comfort Zone!