Are motorcycles just for men? — part 2

In Part 1 of this article we established the fact that women make a big impact in the sport of motorcycling. “With training and experience, women can and often do become as good or better than men with the same training and experience. — Joanna Murray” Now, let’s look at how long women have been [...]

Continue reading...

Are motorcycles just for men? — part 1

Is motorcycling just for men? Not on your life! The latest statistics indicate that one out of ten U.S. motorcycle owners is a woman. With 6,617,000 documented owners in 2003 that converts to about 662,000 female motorcycle owners. Another study from the Motorcycle Industry Council reports that out of an estimated 23 million motorcycle operators, [...]

Continue reading...

Proficient Motorcycling Books – a must for Beginning Riders

Learning to ride a motorcycle is a process. From deciding that you want to ride, selecting your first motorcycle, learning how to ride — and then ultimately — to improving your riding skills. A key part of this learning process is studying — book knowledge of sorts.

Continue reading...

DOT Motorcycle Helmet vs. Novelty Helmet

Question: I just got back on a bike in August after 25 years and borrowed a helmet, German style. It looked cool. So I go online to buy one for myself and order a cool looking leather DOT rated helmet. When it arrives the thing looks like a giant mushroom on my head, my friend [...]

Continue reading...

Motorcycle Question: Problems Making Turns

I received this question from a rider having problems turning: I’ve been riding for 2 seasons now. Loving it! My biggest problem that persists is turning. In most cases I am fine. I anticipate the turn, the speed of turn, and the traffic. etc.

Continue reading...

High School Friend Killed on Motorcycle – Now She Wants to Buy One

A very close high school friend of mine was just killed by a drunk driver on her bike. Instead of shying away from riding this has made me want to ride even more. Can someone here please help…

Continue reading...

Overcoming Fear when Learning to Ride a Motorcycle

Many beginning motorcyclist have told me, “I have this overwhelming fear when I ride my motorcycle.” Many feel anxious, awkward, and overwhelmed.

Is this normal? Have you experienced it? What are the best ways to overcome them… should they STOP RIDING?

Continue reading...

Buy Motorcycle and Sell Car?

Is it a good idea to sell your car and purchase a motorcycle to save money? What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Does it make sense?

Here is part of an email from a beginning rider:

Continue reading...

Motorcycle riding tips — ride relaxed

You’ve heard all the benefits: 1. Better control of the bike (immediate). 2. Less fatigue during the ride (today). 3. Prevention of damage to your body (tomorrow). Yet, still, when you do a posture check, you discover your elbows locked, your hands tight on the grips and your shoulders up around your ears. Why can’t [...]

Continue reading...

Question: Honda Magna good first motorcycle?

Question from a potential beginning motorcyclist: The guy down the road from me is selling his ’87 Honda Magna motorcycle — 4 cylinder, water cooled, shaft-drive, low seat, etc. 31,000 miles for $1,000. I am very sorely tempted to buy it! I’ve never owned, nor ridden a motorcycle, but I’ve always had a desire to [...]

Continue reading...

Women’s Riding School – interview with Judy Mirro

Want to improve your motorcycle riding skills? Judy Mirro is putting the final touches on the 2010 Women’s Riding School (WRS) event. This years event is Friday July 23, 2010 at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire. Judy has agreed to share some great riding tips with us in the near future. [...]

Continue reading...

Beginning Rider: Took MSF course – problems shifting smoothly

A beginning rider sent me this question: Hi, I just bought my first motorcycle today. Its a Kawasaki Ninja 500. I have taken the MSF course but I still have some problems shifting smoothly. Any advice for Josh?

Continue reading...

Question: In over my head at 46?

Question from beginning rider… David, I came across your web site last year when I started riding. I am a beginner and just getting my feet wet. I have a 250 Kawaski Ninja. I do have a silly question though. I am new to this world of bikes and wonder if I have bitten off [...]

Continue reading...