Rides for a new rider.

[MSHax]

93gc40 is right, you don't have to drink. We have weekly meet ups at a bar but I don't drink. First off drinking and driving is dangerous, but it's 10 times worse on a bike. But we pick certain bars/restaurants because they have outdoor seating. A lot of new riders get the wrong impression when we tell them to meet us at a bar.

[Officer friendly]

I think you are using your Brain not your ego and thats a smart move. If your gut tells you "I'm NOT ready" go with that feeling. Might I suggest starting off small and work your way up....start with maybe riding with a small group 4 or 5 bikes?? a lunch ride? or Ice Cream ride?? (I ride for FOOD not booze ) lol
Sometimes a small group of us ride to Mass for lunch or dinner rides,,you can join us anytime ..
start SMALL and slowwwwwly work your way up (when YOU feel ready you'll know it) also look into an advance M/C course maybe next year??

[TimFis]

Yes, I definitely realize I don't have to drink. What would worry me is the guy that felt like he could drink, then causes an accident.

Certainly not trying to judge anyone. Just where I'm new to a bike, I want to keep myself out of that kind of situation.

I'm hoping to do a good amount of riding this year, work up my comfort level, then maybe look more into organized rides next year.

[Dom.Five]

I know what your thinking,, I also understand your location! You are in one of the few areas in this state that has low volume traffic . I would say, Go to the meet. Ride with them, stay at the rear of the pack. If you feel uncomfortable, at any time, for any reason. Just drop out, pull back, and be happy that you got a chance to give it a try.

Dom

[Jay Tee]

I guess it depends how big an event you are talking about. A poker run type charity deal over 75 miles or so, with frequent stops, can be a nice intro into group riding. Start towards the back and ride your own ride. My first group ride was exactly that, before I joined a club. I have still resisted the "Parade of Power" during Bikes Blues and BBQ because it is like 80,000 bikes. So, events really run the gamut. Find something that isn't too big and where you don't have to keep the pace with anyone else, and you are good to go.

[TimFis]

Thanks for the feedback. Ride safe!

[GaffShadowGirl]

Hi there. First of all - love your bike. I almost bought one looking just like that but it sold before I found the money! Mind if I ask the details on it?

As for your topic, I'm right there with you. I got my 2000 Shadow 600 just a few weeks ago. I love riding, but I'm a newbie too! I'm near Boulder CO and would love to hear from anyone near here that could give me some info.

[TimFis]

Hey Gaff,

Thanks! It's a 2008 Spirit. Bought it with under 6k miles with aftermarket exhaust, sissy bar/luggage rack & saddle bags. Got it cheap from a buddy of mine. Since getting it a few weeks ago, I've removed the sissy bar, put the saddle bags on and ridden about 600 miles. I get almost 60 miles/gallon, which is great since I ride an hour + for work one way.

I've picked out my first ride. Sept 9th, there's a poker run benefiting the relay for life out here in Gardner, MA. A good friend passed away on Monday from Cancer, so a few friends will be with me.

Planning on staying in the rear and taking it easy, just in case.

Good luck and keep the shiny side up!

P.s. No pictures of your ride?

[GaffShadowGirl]

Ok -I put up a couple quick pics of my ride at the dealer when I bought it. I'm working on a pic that proves I'm a chick, and I gotta get that motorcycle look going. My bike is a 2000 Honda Shadow 600 VLX, and had 12k miles on it. I'm loving it but for now just riding weekend evenings so I can get comfortable with my driving and not deal with a lot of traffic. Let me know how your ride goes.

[RamesesThe2nd]

I saw a lady drop a nice shinny bike at one of these group events at Honda Dealership in Aurora, IL. There are too many people and too much pressure to keep up. I say avoid them this year.