Advice help for building confidence
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Novice
Joined: Dec 2018
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From: Kansas City ks
Advice help for building confidence
Need some advice bought a new Street glide after dreaming of owning a Harley for 20+ years ain't rode a bike in 20+ years any advice on building confidence???
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Joined: Mar 2009
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From: Niles Canyon Ca.
Start slow know where you're going and pile the miles on even if its the same trip every day. Repetition builds the skills & muscle memory and your comfort zone will grow with time. Being on a fat bike does take some getting used to.
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From: Kansas City ks
Thanks brother
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Joined: May 2018
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From: Tampa Bay Area
Hey Guy, welcome. Definite +1 on miles...
I had same experience this year jumping on a SG after a 30-year layoff. I did not want to go small and regret it, but I was admittedly apprehensive about jumping on a big bike after such a long time. My first few hundred miles were stressful, but I took it slow. I get out and ride all the time - and every mile gets more comfortable. I also made time to practice slow maneuvers in wide-open spaces to develop better control and build confidence. Definitely helps.
Almost 5K miles later the bike feels great under me. Good luck, ride safe and enjoy!
I had same experience this year jumping on a SG after a 30-year layoff. I did not want to go small and regret it, but I was admittedly apprehensive about jumping on a big bike after such a long time. My first few hundred miles were stressful, but I took it slow. I get out and ride all the time - and every mile gets more comfortable. I also made time to practice slow maneuvers in wide-open spaces to develop better control and build confidence. Definitely helps.
Almost 5K miles later the bike feels great under me. Good luck, ride safe and enjoy!
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Novice
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 17
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From: Kansas City ks
Thanks brother
Hey Guy, welcome. Definite +1 on miles...
I had same experience this year jumping on a SG after a 30-year layoff. I did not want to go small and regret it, but I was admittedly apprehensive about jumping on a big bike after such a long time. My first few hundred miles were stressful, but I took it slow. I get out and ride all the time - and every mile gets more comfortable. I also made time to practice slow maneuvers in wide-open spaces to develop better control and build confidence. Definitely helps.
Almost 5K miles later the bike feels great under me. Good luck, ride safe and enjoy!
I had same experience this year jumping on a SG after a 30-year layoff. I did not want to go small and regret it, but I was admittedly apprehensive about jumping on a big bike after such a long time. My first few hundred miles were stressful, but I took it slow. I get out and ride all the time - and every mile gets more comfortable. I also made time to practice slow maneuvers in wide-open spaces to develop better control and build confidence. Definitely helps.
Almost 5K miles later the bike feels great under me. Good luck, ride safe and enjoy!
Appreciate the advice I was always told Harley guys are like a family and all the advice I get that quick proves it. I will take it slowly add up miles and get there I'm sure.
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From: Sandy Eggo's North County
Hi Guy, since you haven't ridden in 20+ years, you'd be considered a "Re-entry" rider. Do you have your license? I'd suggest looking into KCK community college. They have training classes for you. Also, maybe you can find a group of websites such as "meet up" or "lets-ride". Good luck and GO CHIEEEEEEFS!
EDIT~ Also, check the local HOG group for "How to group ride" and other tips to mitigate risk.
EDIT~ Also, check the local HOG group for "How to group ride" and other tips to mitigate risk.
Last edited by NORTY FLATZ; Dec 23, 2018 at 08:37 PM.
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Joined: May 2018
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From: Tampa Bay Area
One more experience to share... I rode with quite a bit of pain across my back, neck and shoulders for the first 600 miles or so. Was beginning to think seat, bars, positioning, etc. when I got some advice (on this forum) to simply "relax".
Came to realize I was squeezing the grips too hard, sitting up too rigid and high, fighting the handlebars a bit too much, etc.. Was all stress-related tension. As soon as I leaned back a bit and loosened-up a bit things got way more comfortable and the ride got way more enjoyable.
Miles...
Came to realize I was squeezing the grips too hard, sitting up too rigid and high, fighting the handlebars a bit too much, etc.. Was all stress-related tension. As soon as I leaned back a bit and loosened-up a bit things got way more comfortable and the ride got way more enjoyable.
Miles...
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From: Kansas City ks
Thank you 2 brother
Definitely will take the advice I noticed I'm a little tight on grips because of nerves. And the way sit I know I have it in me to ride just trying to get that confidence out will take some work but I'm so great full for everyone who's has responded I will take all your advice to heart every time I fire her up thanks so much Harley riders must truly be a family.