Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men)

As a 32-year old female rider of both sport bikes and cruisers, I have been surrounded by mostly male riders who will not hesitate to display their prowess with their superb riding skills. I have had four bikes in my past 9 years of living in a two-wheeled lifestyle (and yes, it is a lifestyle). And yet, my bike is one of the fastest, most agile, and least wrecked of my fellow, male dominated riders. When I bought my 2006 Yamaha R1, all of the salesmen at the dealership repeatedly advised me with the statement, "be careful, that is a lot of bike for you." Indeed, I do have a rather petite frame, at 140 pounds, 5'3" with a bike that can go 85 miles a hour in first gear. But, more importantly, it was their look of pure envy that gave them away. I admit, I do get tempted to propel myself through rush hour traffic and speeds in the triple digits. Moreover, when I am riding with the group, I find myself doing things I ordinarily would at least momentarily second-guess. But, I am rather proud that I cannot don a "crashing sucks" patch or sticker like the majority of riders out there. I have tipped my bike over at a dead standstill, almost pinning myself to the ground under 400 pounds, and tearing a muscle trying to prevent my first scratches from appearing on the frame.

I was not given any motorcycle advice throughout my years of riding. For the most part, I have been a quiet observer. And sometimes, a laughing out loud observer at those that feel the need to do burn outs and wheelies down a residential street. I would like to offer some initial words of wisdom to novice riders, or women that are considering purchasing their first bike.

1. Keep it on two wheels. There are millions of dollars and manhours spent on the design of a motorcycle by manufacturers. I can guarantee you most of the testing was done on two wheels. That is how the bike is supposed to be ridden.
2. Your first bike should be no more than 600cc's and used. I learned how to ride a small Honda Rebel from a riding course of police officer instructors. Though that bike felt a bit small for me, it was realistic. Simply put, you will more than likely wreck or drop your first bike. Therefore, a 600cc bike will not be a car payment, and a used one can be found for a few thousand dollars, not 10k.
3. Ride your ride. This simple statement can be a life saver. When you are riding with a group, do not let them coerce you into riding like a professional stunt man. Most good riders will not tempt you anyways, as you would be more of a risk of crashing into them. Take your time, ride your ride.

~iel~

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Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men) part 2.

Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men) part 3

Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men) part 4

Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men) part 5