[SyracusePhantom]

Hi everyone - I just started riding and after finishing the motorcycle safety course, rode home my first bike yesterday.

It's a 2011 Phantom and it's a blast. I'm still pretty nervous on it, but after a few rides I'm gaining confidence. The engine's probably a little bigger than I wanted for a first bike, but I'm a big guy and I don't think a smaller frame would have worked for me. My legs are already a little tight, but not uncomfortable. I'm going to ride it for a few weeks before deciding on getting some forward extensions. So far the weight and strong engine haven't been a problem, so I feel a little better about my selection than I thought I would.

I was having a little trouble with my foot getting stuck under the shifter after an up-shift, but I changed my hiking boots out for some new motorcycle boots and it's been fine since.

Also having a little trouble keeping track of which gear I'm in, which has bitten me on a down-shift once or twice as I have downshifted too far and then chirped the tire as I released the clutch.

Looking forward to getting some good advice here!

 

[-AJ]

welcome!

 

[Kingshead]

You're off to a great start, you posted a pic of your bike and I don't need one of these to see it.

 

[SyracusePhantom]

Yes - I saw enough noobs get scolded for that!! Thanks...

 

[elfnyc]

welcome fellow phantom lover hahaha - you coulda just moved the shifter a little but o well hahaha anyways nice choice in the picking of scooter..

now chop it up

 

[SyracusePhantom]

Haha - the shifter moves???

Well it's OK - I already had the boots on order... My friend told me I'm trying to hard to get under the shifter when I only need to use the edge of my foot. But anyway, it's very comfortable now that I'm getting used to it. Unfortunately lots of rain today, so no practice...

 

[jpr1968]

Welcome and remember, keep the rubber side down and the shiny side up.

 

[tflaim]

Welcome, nice looking ride.

 

[ALS2052]

My wife is having the same problem with her new phantom trying to keep count on which gear she is in...An indicator of some sort would be nice...

 

[elfnyc]

ALS2052



KOSO GEAR INDICATOR WITH SHIFT LIGHT UNIVERSAL on eBay!

Starlane Engear Digital Gear Indicator with Shift light - Electrical - sportbike - Superbike Toy Store - Fast, Reliable Service and Great Prices

how they work or how to hook up is beyond me but they make them

 

[SyracusePhantom]

Thanks for those links. I think with practice I'll get better - it already seems that way. If I'm still having trouble keeping track in a few weeks I may try one of them out.

 

[Vetlady]

Belated Welcome SyracusePhantom, from Kingston, Ontario.....nice to have another Easterner on this forum! You've found a great form!

Ride often, ride safe!

Di