Quote:I had never even sat on a motorcycle let alone rode one until 2 years ago at the age of 52, when I bought my 2011 S40. I rode around the neighborhood a lot at first, getting up to 35 MPH in 3rd. When I felt I was ready to tackle heavier traffic, higher speeds, and traffic lights, I ventured out onto the main roads here. I was nervous as heck but did all right. The strange part was feeling the wind buffeting my head around with the full-face helmet on.
Two years later and I'm riding comfortably at 75 - 80 MPH on I-10 here on 60-mile round-trips. My opinion is that anyone can ride a motorcycle on straight roads and easy curves quite adeptly; it's the slow, tight turns and scenarios where you inch along at walking speed that are toughest.
As you ride more and more, you'll become a good rider. Just be very careful on that ramp leading to your above-ground garage. And remember to never apply your front brake while turning on that ramp nor anywhere else or you can drop the bike. For those instances, use your rear brake only and feed power to the tranny gingerly with the clutch. Use the front brake only when stopping in a straight line.
Welcome to SS and the best of luck to you!
Hi All, I'm new here also and was encouraged to see this comment. I'm 61 and a new rider. Actually made my first attempt in my late 50's and managed to go flying off my buddies sv650. Set me back a bit, last year decided to start taking lessons again, my 2013 S40 is actually my third bike. I'll be snooping around looking for info on seats and other goodies. The same friend just gifted me with sever hundred $$ worth of free bags, so I'm fiddling with them now. Next I'm interested in a windshield, actually just a fly screen, any recommendations on that? Thanks in advance. [/quote]
I've been away for several weeks, so I'm replying to this post just now. I think it may be true that riding a motorcycle for the first time for older folks like me and Snubby241 may be much different than it is for young folks who are first-timers at it.
So if you are an older, first-time rider who has questions, concerns, or comments regarding riding, please post them. We can all learn from each other to enjoy riding to the fullest. I think it's a blast and offers a true sense of freedom that cars can't.
Of course, if you're a younger first-time rider, please post your questions, concerns, and comments, as well. I just mentioned older newbies because they (as I did) may need a bit of encouragement to garner the courage to go riding for the first time.
Pages: 
