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by lonewolf
Wed Dec 01, 2010 8:01 pm
Forum: Off-Topic
Topic: Riders: Talked out of buying my first bike.
Replies: 78
Views: 7942

Re: Riders: Talked out of buying my first bike.

I don't believe the motorcycle safety course is a requirement. Successfully completing it does allow you to avoid the actual driving portion of the test, with the examiner riding in a car your wife/husband/friend has followed you to the DPS in. It was nice to just take the written test, show the documentation, and get on down the road. The course I took was $190.00 and well worth it.....
by lonewolf
Wed Dec 01, 2010 5:49 pm
Forum: Off-Topic
Topic: Riders: Talked out of buying my first bike.
Replies: 78
Views: 7942

Re: Riders: Talked out of buying my first bike.

Been riding my Road King for a few years now. Some close calls. One that I would consider deliberate and reckless on the part of the driver of the other vehicle. Another thing about motorcycles is that they (in my opinion) are more work to operate. More coordination. Battling the elements to a greater degree. I followed my wife from Euless to College Station last summer, her in the car and me on the bike. She was bothered that I stopped much more often than she wanted. Beware of dehydration and fatigue. Take regular breaks. No Iron Butt patch for me. I plan my trips accordingly. I give extra time to get where I am going, so I minimize the stress of the ride.

I always wear a helmet. I took the motorcycle safety course. I don't drink (at all) when using the bike. I keep as large a cushion as possible around me when in traffic. I stay in gear when at a light, watching for boneheads behind me. That way I can get out of the way if needed.

Different types of riding:

Commuting. Plan your route and leave in plenty of time so you are not tempted to be one of the crotch rocket commandos weaving around traffic.

Touring. Leave time on the agenda for rests and such. Stay hydrated. Remember that in most cases of travelling by bike, its the enjoyment of the ride as much as the destination that make it special. At least for me.....

Maintenance. No skimping here. Ever. Check everything regularly.

I believe the Can Am Spyder can be purchased with an automatic transmission, so shifting may not be necessary for you. Keep your situational awareness high at all times when on a bike. Things that may only cause a bruise when in a car may very well kill you when on a bike.

As with everything else in the world, the choice is yours.

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