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Welcome Area OnlyNew Member Welcome Area Only. Be sure to pop in here and introduce yourself & let us know what Harley Davidson you own. Save your bike related questions for the proper area.
I use to ride back in the 60's when bikes were smaller and less powerful. When I got back into riding in 2003 it was Centenial Year for H-D and the dealers were very, very proud of the bikes they were selling--some at a premium.
I went on down the road to the Honda dealer and bought a new 750 Shadow ACE to re-learn on. Rode it 14,000 miles, sold it at $1,000 loss and picked up my 750 pound Electra Glide which now has close to 40,000 miles on it.
When my 17 year old step son decided he wanted to learn he got a Rebel. He's got 12,000 miles on it and is a darn good rider because of that little Rebel. He ridden it of my flank from Mississippi to Colorado and back.
IMHO anyone wanting to learn ought to start small and work up.
"When my 17 year old step son decided he wanted to learn he got a Rebel. He's got 12,000 miles on it and is a darn good rider because of that little Rebel. He ridden it of my flank from Mississippi to Colorado and back."
Yikes! That's a long haul on one of those! Got my wife a zuki gz250 to learn on, took it to the gas station and back home. Took about a mile to get it up to 60mph. (I'm a svelt 6', 198 lbs)
Didn't read every post but think the Honda Rebel is an excellent learner Bike if drop it now and then who cares ... Best to beat up a old used rebel than drop a New Sporty which can be done easily enough... When Ready for the Sporty just remember is a little top heavy and be careful when grabbing that front brake ... Do it with a good lean and will wonder why you ended up on the ground...
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I am glad you are ok. My wife has a similar experience. She has taken a 1 year break and is ready to try again. Spend some time and become friends with you bike.
Once you are on the road, position yourself on the road, so you do not get hit by another car or truck. It does not matter if it was not your fault if you get hit. I do not mean to scare you, but you are faster and can maneuver faster than any car, use it.
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