On 12 Dec 2006 12:07:24 -0800, bstevens@rock.com wrote:
>I know, I know... "take the MSF course." No problem, I'll take it soon,
>and I've already practically memorized the MSF handbook. Beyond that,
>though, anybody have any tips or advice for going through this? I'm
>sure some of you have been through this process before.
Well that is a big bike you are returning to. You might consider
buying a smaller one to putt around on for the first six months or so.
Might save you grinding the plastic and shiny bits of that beautiful
Vulcan on the asphalt when you drop it. And you are likely to drop it
at least once.
That said I would bet my last two dollars you are not likely to follow
that advice.
Next best is do a little more research on riding techniques. David L.
Hough has written a series of good books on how to ride. To start I'd
recommend Proficient Motorcycling. His books are a very easy read with
tons of info on safe riding, cornering, braking, all the good stuff.
For slow speed maneuvering and bike control skills I'd suggest picking
up Jerry Palladino's Ride Like a Pro DVD. It's more focused than
Hough's books but still very informative.
And under the heading of "Be Careful What You Ask For, You Just Might
Get It" is the best advice I can offer. Take it slow and be careful.
It's been a while for you since you last rode and that is a big bike.
There are lots of hazards out there just waiting for you to screw up.
Don't let them win.
--
24 hours in a day
&
24 beer in a case
Coincidence?
I think not
On 12 Dec 2006 12:07:24 -0800, bstevens@rock.com wrote:
<snip>
>I love the bike, but I'm pretty nervous about riding after 25 years.
>The Vulcan feels HUGE, but I'm sure it'll come back to me very quickly.
>Still, those first few minutes will give me a heart attack. After we do
>the paperwork, the dealer will take me to a big empty parking lot,
>where I'll ride it around until I'm familiar with it enough to take it
>home, about 15 miles down the road.
>I know, I know... "take the MSF course." No problem, I'll take it soon,
>and I've already practically memorized the MSF handbook. Beyond that,
>though, anybody have any tips or advice for going through this? I'm
>sure some of you have been through this process before.
That machine not only feels huge, it is huge. It's also a lot less
maneuverable than the one you rode years ago. In addition to the MSF
course, I recommend plenty of practice in parking lots, on quiet
streets, and at moderate speeds in your local twisties, preferably
during working/school hours when most of the cagers and squids are
otherwise occupied.
Al Moore
DoD 734
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>and I've already practically memorized the MSF handbook. Beyond that,
>though, anybody have any tips or advice for going through this? I'm
>sure some of you have been through this process before.