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Message started by youngde811 on 06/19/16 at 20:09:24

Title: Three-year plan
Post by youngde811 on 06/19/16 at 20:09:24

Hi all. This is a riding question rather than mechanical, and is also a bit subjective.

I've had my S40 for almost two years now (bought it new), with about 14 months of riding. I just finished my MSF BRC and got my endorsement, so I'm finished with that part. I've devised a "three-year plan": two years getting as much saddle time on my S40 as possible, riding in traffic, practicing slow-speed maneuvers, etc. Then, upgrade to a larger bike, spend a year training on that and then plan a group trip to the Blue Ridge Parkway in VA (I'm in Raleigh, NC).

So what do you all think? Is three years a reasonable amount of training time before taking a long bike trip? For background, I'm 57 and the S40 is my first bike. No riding experience beforehand.

Thanks much.

David

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Kris01 on 06/19/16 at 20:20:17

I'd say mileage, knowledge and attitude is more important than time. If YOU feel comfortable then go for it!

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by justin_o_guy2 on 06/19/16 at 20:25:21

Upgrade? Different, bigger, an Upgrade is , as you say, subjective.
The Plan is a very responsible, smart approach. Maybe Too much so.
If you are planning a long trip, id suggest you take a trip to the nearest campground and spend the night. Learn to pack, and what you need before you head out. Shakedown cruise.
What are you calling a
Long trip?
Solo?

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by batman on 06/19/16 at 20:41:09

What JOG said,Plan ahead,but you should know riding in a group takes some practice and can be more dangerous,(one loose nut can get you hurt!)If you think 57 is old I 'm 68 ,my last trip was 2100 miles ,new York to tenn. and back , 4days, solo, two years ago,on my 95 savage.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Dave on 06/20/16 at 03:52:08

I am not sure that a bigger bike is an advantage on a trip to the Dragon. Small and nimble is a key feature of the Savage, and the big single reduces the need to shift often.

I would suggest you keep the Savage long enough to do a group ride.....then decide if you really want a bigger bike. Bigger and smaller bikes to show up on the trips to the mountains.....I just got back from a ride and I went 911 miles riding my 250 Ninja. A relatively new rider will have more fun if they are not wrestling around an 800 pound motorcycle! We tend to go to the tight twisty roads whenever possible....and the Savage is a great bike to have on those roads.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by gizzo on 06/20/16 at 04:36:57

Go for the big ride as soon as you feel ready. Just ride within your own limits and you'll be fine.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by bobert_FSO on 06/20/16 at 05:53:24

I you are riding a lot, I would consider this more of a 3 month plan, not a 3 year plan. You can get familiar and comfortable with a specific bike pretty quickly. The only thing left is how to handle a real traffic emergency. However, those are hard to plan for. You could ride for 3 years and never encounter such a situation. In that case, you would not be getting 3 year's experience, you would be getting 3 month's experience 12 times over.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by verslagen1 on 06/20/16 at 08:36:32

37213B20292A2B767F7F4E0 wrote:

If you rode with us at one of our dragon ralleys, you'd quickly learn that even though we all (mostly) ride the same bike, there's a wide range of riding... let's call it attitude. From the gxsr chasing grandpa, to the scooter boy. And experience ranges from a few years to a lifetime. So your current ride is quite capable of doing it if you are. The only limits are the gas tank and the seat.

So, 14 months, what does that mean? How many miles? Residential/City/Hiway/Freeway?

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by springman on 06/20/16 at 09:41:29

Hello younde811. I figured I would chime in as I am still a relative newbie starting my fifth year of riding and at 58 basically the same age as you.

First point - at the Dragon or any such roads you will be very happy on S40

Second point - on the highway you will probably prefer a more powerful bike if you like to ride fast. But the S40 will do 70 mph all day long

Last point - feeling comfortable with your own riding skills is a very subjective. However, if you can be objective in evaluating your skills and overall riding comfort then you will know if you are ready to go on the long trip. I have done a few road trips and I love it.

Good luck to you. :)

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by SugarBoogers on 06/20/16 at 09:47:56

I think you should borrow a big bike and see if you like highway riding with one. Personally, highway speeds are high for me and I have to trust the other drivers too much for me to feel comfortable. I'm not sure I'd like a heavier bike. YMMV

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Dave on 06/20/16 at 10:18:44

Verslagen makes a good point.....it really depends on how quickly you catch on and become a competent rider. Some folks can buy a bike and within a year they are racing.....others are still riding around in their subdivision trying to build their skills and confidence. It has a lot to do with how quickly you can become coordinated....so that riding becomes just as natural to you as walking or driving a car. Using the clutch, shifter, front and rear brakes, steering, etc. has to become automatic for you........and you have to learn how to handle changing conditions instantly. On any ride you are likely to encounter stuff in the road, traffic, animals, slippery pavement, rain, wind, etc.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Ruttly on 06/20/16 at 12:21:40

Pack your crap up and go now
3 year plan , who thought that up
Change the oil and go
You will have way more fun on that S40 than a " big bike"
Don't be such a wuss just go

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Chase on 06/20/16 at 12:21:51

Ive done trip from NJ to Sky Line drive on the savage just fine no need for bigger bike, but if that's what you want its what you want.

A buddy actually asked to ride my bike because he was not having fun on his 1800 in the mountains, so we switched for a bit but I promptly asked for my bike back and he was reluctant to give it back lol.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Ruttly on 06/20/16 at 12:31:39

Must be a slow learner
Got that oil changed yet ?
3 years ?
Really ?
My first week on a motorcycle I got chased by a bull and then shot at by the farmer!
Pack your crap and ride !!!

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by stewmills on 06/20/16 at 12:36:49

I once thought I wanted a bigger bike than the S40. Glad I was talked out of it by the gang here because I knowing what I know now, I would have regretted it.

Don't make decisions on getting a bigger bike because your buddies with bigger bikes tell you you should. If they have never ridden an S40 for a while, then they aren't qualified to make that statement.

Ride the S40 wherever you want and you'll be surprised how happy you'll be. Plus, you can work on your bike if needed. Most of the guys with the big bike's have to pay big bucks and wait several days for things we can do in 15 minutes for free.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by justin_o_guy2 on 06/20/16 at 12:46:22

My first week on a motorcycle I got chased by a bull and then shot at by the farmer!

You can tell those tales...

And good point made. I tried riding with a few people. Didn't really enjoy it. The roads were great, but I found I was happier and felt much safer backing away enough to be able to run into the curves at
Fun for Me Speeds
and not quite catch up to them on the straight.

I would pack up and ride.. but probably not too far. Hit a state park or an RV campground, hundred miles or so. Set up, hang out, ride around and scope stuff out, fix some grub,

You can call around where you're planning on going, see what laws apply. Some parks, I've heard, you can fish without a license. How cool would that be? A small backpack rod and reel,
camp stove,aww yeah...
Clue
Never fail to Carry enough to eat, JIC you don't catch hoot.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Ruttly on 06/20/16 at 15:08:19

Your 57 ? You might be dead in 3 years
You have some backbone learning to ride at 57
All you need is bedroll credit cards big ass bag of beef jerky if you still have teeth & a few tools
Point that savage towards the mountains and ride
Send us a post when you get there
Oh and small cooler packed with ice and your favorite flavor of ENSURE !

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by youngde811 on 06/20/16 at 17:58:44

7A656364797E4F7F4F77656922100 wrote:

A shakedown cruise is a good idea. There's are several campgrounds at Jordan Lake about 40 minutes from my home.

A long trip, for me at this point, would be about 400 miles one way. I'd like to go with a group, but the point was made that group riding takes some practice as well. So I guess that's another thing that will need shaking down.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Kris01 on 06/20/16 at 18:19:42

785F5E5E46532A0 wrote:

You realize most of the guys around here are between 50 and 70?

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Dave on 06/20/16 at 18:51:59

142D362C6F6E5F0 wrote:

You realize most of the guys around here are between 50 and 70?

Yep....that would be me exactly....I am 60!

Riding with 1 or 2 others is ideal.....once you start adding more riders it becomes somewhat cumbersome to stay together - while not running into each other. When you get a bunch of folks....it is really hard to stay together and not get separated at traffic lights and intersections...or when pulling back onto the highway from a fuel or rest stop.

I find huge groups like charity rides or poker runs to be nothing more than a parade....you won't learn much about riding in that type of ride.

I learned to ride on a dirtbike....and I somehow believe that may be the best way to learn. It teaches you a lot about braking, balance and traction....and when you fall down on the wet leaves or slippery mud neither you or the bike are hurt while the lessons are being learned.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by youngde811 on 06/20/16 at 19:11:14

Thanks everyone for the comments. I appreciate all of them, even the ones about my age and learning prowess. I'll try not to be a wuss and just ride my ride.

I did want to mention the S40. I find it a very forgiving bike, and fun to ride. On several occasions I've grabbed too much front brake and she didn't lock up her front tire. Really a pleasure to own. I only mention getting a slightly larger bike (perhaps an S50?) because I figured a V-Twin might be a bit more comfortable on a long trip. But I see several of you have made very long trips on the Savage/S40 so perhaps a change of bikes is not in order.

In any event, thanks again.

David

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Kris01 on 06/20/16 at 20:45:26

Bigger also means heavier. It's much easier to learn on a lighter, more nimble bike than a heavy beast.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Ruttly on 06/20/16 at 21:40:34

Kris01 I know this isn't the youngest group here. I was only trying to inspire him with a few insults, 57 is not old, I merely wanted him to realize that life is short and you should do things and not on a 3 year plan , in 3 years a lot can change, do it now why wait. Yeah most here know I'm a smartass and at times just an ass,but I regard all of you as friends, respected friends. I enjoy it here and was just having fun! I may grow up someday but after 56 years I doubt it !!!

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by jcstokes on 06/21/16 at 04:21:05

I think three years is being a little conservative for taking long rides. Perhaps consider a fifty mile rural ride on a quiet Sunday morning, the following week fifty miles out and fifty back. Progressively increasing each week. remember not to exceed 120 miles without refuelling, you will be on reserve by then. The MSF should have taught you your basic skills, so remember them and get the mileage up. Try a little interstate while you're at it.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by justin_o_guy2 on 06/21/16 at 04:37:01

Surely HOW you Feel while riding in traffic has changed.. Stay in a spot just a hair Uncomfortable and you won't Freeze up, but you'll eventually adapt and get comfortable with That level of speed/traffic,
Instead of setting a calender date , go with How competent do you Feel.. And you, by choosing to venture into certain things or not, will determine how quickly you grow as a rider.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Ruttly on 06/21/16 at 05:51:03

youngde811
Just want you to enjoy your bike and life now. Guess I flipped out alittle over the 3 year plan thing. I can be alittle rough around the edges at times. Ride that bike every chance you get short or long runs , day or night just ride. Percentage is always high in your first year of having a crash but it drops dramatically every year after that. So send us a post when you get somewhere. Don't forget the ENSURE, I like the chocolate one got hooked after a surgery , full of vitamins & proteins. CHEERS !

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Dave on 06/21/16 at 06:04:38

496E6F6F77621B0 wrote:

Don't forget the ENSURE, I like the chocolate one got hooked after a surgery , full of vitamins & proteins. CHEERS !

Ensure is not yet my favorite adult beverage! ;)

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Ruttly on 06/21/16 at 09:35:24

Had to quit the red bulls & rock stars, they give you kidney stones , not my everyday drink either but when you got long ride ahead slam 2 & ride , great stuff!

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Kris01 on 06/21/16 at 17:30:14

47606161796C150 wrote:

Yeah most here know I'm a smartass and at times just an ass,but I regard all of you as friends, respected friends. I enjoy it here and was just having fun! I may grow up someday but after 56 years I doubt it !!!

Whew! Ok! ;D

I get your point now.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Dave on 06/21/16 at 18:56:02

Back to the thread subject.

There really is no time penalty or bonus. Go out and ride as often as possible, ride and learn at a pace that makes the trip enjoyable for you, and progress at a pace that is rewarding for you. If it takes you 3 years...who cares as long as you are having fun the whole darn time.

Bigger bike...sometimes they are OK. I just sold my ST1100 as it was just a bit too big and heavy for me. It was really comfortable on the interstate and Cherohala Skyway......it was a bit cumbersome in parking lots and when my wife was riding on the back. I now have an NT700 to replace it and it is much lighter and has plenty of power to do the speed limits. I just spent 3 days riding a 250 Ninja around the NC/TN/GA area and went 911 miles and had a ball....bigger is not always better.

Ride the Savage and learn, and have fun along the way. A chance to buy a bigger bike at a great price will almost certainly come along when you least expect it....and it might be worth a try. I see nothing wrong with buying a used bike at a good price, riding it for a year or two, and then reselling it at a price very similar to what you paid for it. But don't sell the Savage if you don't need to....you might find that you like it better!

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by youngde811 on 06/21/16 at 20:41:54

406766667E6B120 wrote:

Will do Ruttly. And you're right about riding a lot and shortening the date of my planned trip. Thanks for encouragement!

david

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Flint on 06/21/16 at 21:20:43

youngde811,

I wouldn't be too eager to start riding with big groups of bikes if you are fairly new to riding. Probably 1/2 of the motorcycle accidents around here involve someone getting tangled up with another bike during a group ride. I find 2 or 3 other riders to be plenty.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by WD on 06/21/16 at 22:33:01

Suzuki finally killed off the S series v twin cruisers a few years ago. Way beyond when they should have. The cartoon Intruders (700-1400) were pure unadulterated garbage. Buried carburetor and airbox for each cylinder. Need to clean a carb or change a jet, pull the engine. Hidden electrical switch, in the transmission, guaranteed to fail, pull the engine to find/change it. And hope against hope that you guessed right, there is a full 1/4 mile of wiring on those rolling abortions.

Have speed bumps in your area, the battery box gets high centered. Drags and gets torn apart. Changing the battery is about as easy as a do it yourself (while drunk) root canal.

The 800 came with fixed position handlebar-riser interface. Requires serious grinding to allow bar position changes or bar swap.

If you want a 1983 Honda Shadow that badly, buy one, as they were 10x the bike any year 700-1400 Intruder was.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by KennyG on 06/21/16 at 23:20:52

WD,

The most reliable bikes that I have ever owned were Honda Shadows.

Change the oil and tires every now and then and the spark plugs once every five years or so and just ride them.

I wish Honda made a big single in the Universal Japanese Motorcycle format with carburetion, a chain drive, a counter balanced engine and a center stand. If they liquid cooled it I wouldn't object. LOL ::)

Kenny G

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by Kruzader on 06/22/16 at 00:19:49

Not super experienced, but throwing my 2 cents to the topic.

I've had my S40 for 4 months now, and put about 800 miles on it. With no experienced before I spent the first month riding around my court for about a month, eventually to the market, home depot, accross the bridge, to work. Then one day I took off to the capital 100+ miles alone.

I ride it to work 2 to 3 days a week... and did a poker run (group run) where i found myself riding in the highway above 70, for the first time. And later on the same trip I rode in the rain (which sucks!)

Moral of the story, you will know when your ready. I made several mistakes, and learned by not repeating them.

Now I get on my bike and feel pretty comfortable understanding what is capable to my skills.

My plan is similar to yours, except that it relies more on a one to one year an a half.

p.s. I also joined an AMA motorcycle club which put me in a community surrounded by nutheads like me that love bike and riding.

...finally I agree, take short trips plan what you need to take, and what you need to do and look after... with time it will be second nature.

Title: Re: Three-year plan
Post by justin_o_guy2 on 06/22/16 at 06:58:30

Learn to tie knots. Packing up and not knowing how to tie stuff must be hard. A bowline is a great knot, super easy to tie and untie, never lets go. Using half hitches to hold tension.
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