Kawasaki Motorcycle Forums - New Rider Forum http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum Welcome to the world of motorcycles. this forum is a place for persons just starting out to gather and discuss training and techniques, MSF classes, first bike choices, gear options, insurance costs, how to get started and feel comfortable doing so. en Sat, 21 Nov 2009 03:33:29 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/images2/misc/rss.jpg Kawasaki Motorcycle Forums - New Rider Forum http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum Renewing Warranty? Past first service date? HELP! http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120968-renewing-warranty-past-first-service-date-help.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:57:37 GMT I'm such a loser for overlooking these things. Well I've missed my 600mile service on my ninja 250 and am now over 1000k... Would I still be able to get the dealer's service to prorate it or something? And also, should I renew my warranty on it? I get really confused with all these legal matters and what would be the best way to approach it. There was a local shop I went to for a new rear tire that I like, but than they might void warranty if I go there for service instead? Please help? ]]> New Rider Forum MysticBiker04 http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120968-renewing-warranty-past-first-service-date-help.html <![CDATA[First 20K & I’ve Kept the Rubber Side Down]]> http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120960-first-20k-i-ve-kept-rubber-side-down.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:24:50 GMT I am about to reach my next milestone as a rider my odometer reading presently sits a 19870 miles. In a few days I will be reaching 20K.

I’ve only been riding a little over a year. I earned my MSF certificate in July last year and the next day I got my license. When I look back at those days it amazes me that I have come this far in so little time and I’ve managed to do it keeping the rubber side down.

If I were to look back over the last twenty thousand miles and isolate the one thing that made it all possible it would have to be permitting myself the time to grow accustomed to riding in different conditions and incrementally challenging myself based on my level of skill at the time.

It was six months before I took my first ride on a tollway or freeway. I first learned to ride in inner-city traffic where the maximum speed limit was 35 to 45 miles an hour, purposely took routes through school zones and streets where traffic congestion was generally low to moderate and in all weather conditions for the exception of ice. I doubt I will ever ride on ice at least not if I can help it.

Once I felt I had mastered riding on city streets, more importantly mastered controlling my bike in close quarters and stop and go situations and varied road surfaces it was time to take on the freeways. At first it was a bit intimidating, having to travel at the higher speeds, but ultimately the transition was seamless. All the skills I learned riding in close quarters and in stop and go traffic took on a whole new meaning when availed the awesome freedom of riding like the wind.

All the while I my have pressed gently to extend my riding skills when it was safe to do so, I always held back a little, keep my following distance just a notch further back than I know I could safely navigate, always made sure no matter where I was on the road I had an escape path mapped out should something suddenly arise. And arise they have, time and time again. From traffic coming to a complete stop at 70 miles and hour to vehicles pulling over and cutting me off. Keeping myself just an additional notch back from my existing abilities has spared me from injury time and again.

I’d like to say I still hold on to the intimidation I felt the first time I took control of my bike to remind me of the danger and risks of not only the road, but within myself and the cycle itself, but when I mount my bike, that’s not what goes through my mind. For me it’s clarity, and acute awareness of my abilities, road conditions, traffic conditions, and restraint from being over confident. Unknown dangers lurk and will challenge me on my ride and on every ride; it’s not a matter of if, but always when.

This is not to say I have not had a perfect ride, free of obstacles and threatening situations, but they are the exception, especially in Dallas / Fort Worth, and the surrounding areas. Incidentally while I am on the subject of the perfect ride, that doesn’t necessarily mean it was. The perfect ride can also be a perception. I’ve seen a many riders escape near death situations completely unaware the grim reaper almost had their number. Something I have witnessed countless times over the past year. So just because it feels like you had the prefect ride, doesn’t mean it was so.

Taking risks, riding aggressively and foolishly, darting between vehicles and pushing the limits and arriving safely at your destination is more dumb luck than anything else. Perhaps riders that do this sort of thing are acutely aware of close calls, and some are. There are some damn good stunt riders out there, and they’re quite amazing to watch, but then again there’s a time and place for it, and less than predictable traffic conditions isn’t one of them.

Which leads me to less than predictable traffic conditions; I can’t end this post without a contribution in the area of predictability. Predicting the future is not limited to fantasy, fiction and the stock market. I have found that by allowing myself a cushion to compensate for any margin of error on my part and riding with a temperament just under my level of skill, that it is possible to predict and avoid dangerous situations like a mind reader.

It’s not always the case, but it’s been my experience that just like stocks, drivers and traffic exhibit trends that can clearly identify potential changes in road conditions. For instance if taillights going off and on frequently in front of me. If its one driver, odds are it’s a tailgater and a driver likely to come into my lane somewhere down the road, so I make a mental note to keep track of and monitor that driver until he or she is no longer a part of the equation.

Riding with a discipline and solid temperament, remaining acutely aware of the terms of the road and giving myself a cushion to compensate for any unforeseeable mistakes has made it possible for me to get to this milestone.

Each and every time I mount my ride, I find I have increased the level of skill behind the handlebars. When I look back to the early days and the promise of my instructors that muscle memory would soon kick in, I never imagined it would be like this. I’ve been told you’re a newbie until you hit 50K and I’ve got 30K more to go. I imagine I’ll get there in much the same way I have so far, taking it one day at a time keeping it simple and safe.

I'll post a shot of my Vulcan 900 Classic as it looks today sometime this weekend. ]]> New Rider Forum Higgs Boson http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120960-first-20k-i-ve-kept-rubber-side-down.html ex250 complete fairing kits?? http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120839-ex250-complete-fairing-kits.html Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:42:55 GMT Hi guys! I'm a new rider just trying to take it easy until the next season.. but I purchased my ex250 just a couple of months ago for a VERY reasonable price and I wanted to know if there are any complete fairing sets on the net?

i've been looking everywhere but there are no websites that sell em. any links?

thanks! ]]> New Rider Forum awwmad http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120839-ex250-complete-fairing-kits.html Need help with Ninja choices http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120828-need-help-ninja-choices.html Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:41:13 GMT Hey guys! Pretty new rider here. I'm 18 turning 19 in february. Just finished my MSF course and need to decide on what bike to get.

I'm pretty short about 5'5 and about 150 lbs.

I was looking at the Ninja 250s but I don't know if that will do it for me. I know it has great mpg, great beginner bike, it's cheap and has a high resale value BUT!

I work far, about 50 or so miles a day 30 or 40 minutes a drive on the interstate or freeway.

So I was also looking at the Ninja 650's. The only things I am concerned about the 650's is is it too much power for me since I've just finished my class and am starting out? Or is does it still have enough power for me to control since it's still a beginner bike and isn't really as powerful as a regular 600cc bike?

The other thing I am concerned about is if I am tall enough to ride it? Is it too big for me? Are my feet going to touch the ground?

Thanks in advance. ]]> New Rider Forum MikeN02 http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120828-need-help-ninja-choices.html Eitquette or NOT!! http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120701-eitquette-not.html Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:39:14 GMT The other day I had to make a quick run to a convenience store for some items. While pulling in and parking I noticed about 10 or so bikes gathered around a fuel island, (fueling and talking)... I got what I needed and prepared to leave. A couple of bikes were in front of me as we prepared to... The other day I had to make a quick run to a convenience store for some items. While pulling in and parking I noticed about 10 or so bikes gathered around a fuel island, (fueling and talking)... I got what I needed and prepared to leave. A couple of bikes were in front of me as we prepared to enter the roadway. One of the group pulled up along side me and asked, "are you in this group".. I replied, "no". He then pulled in front of me at an angle cutting me off. While I allowed this action, it ruffled my feathers a bit. I don't to a lot of group riding but I cannot imagine cutting someone off like that.
Because I don't do a lot of group riding (seldom) at least for now, should I have just let the entire group pass? This would have taken considerable time. Thanks for any advice. ]]> New Rider Forum rafting4fun http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120701-eitquette-not.html Going out on the road for the first time. http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120698-going-out-road-first-time.html Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:55:14 GMT Well I took the MSF course and sure that built up a lot of confidence with a variety of skills, however....it was all on a closed course and at speeds under 20 mph.

As I get closer and closer to going to pick out a bike from the dealer I can't help but become more and more nervous about riding out on the road. When I was taking my course that 20 mph felt wicked fast, the thought of doing all of those things we did at a higher rate of speed makes me a little uneasy.

So in order to put my mind at ease I'd like to hear some stories of peoples first time taking their bike out on the open road! It's not as bad as I'm making it out to be...right? :) ]]> New Rider Forum ryanpk http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120698-going-out-road-first-time.html ((((around The World By Goldwing Gl 1800)))) http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120677-around-world-goldwing-gl-1800-a.html Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:29:42 GMT Hello, Biker: Today I want to display my Dream, as well as my challenge. I have been persecuting this dream for many years, and at last, I have taken the chance to aim it. Like all bikers, the motorcycle is my passion. Whenever I mount over my Honda Goldwing, the world disappears around me, just... Hello, Biker:

Today I want to display my Dream, as well as my challenge. I have been persecuting this dream for many years, and at last, I have taken the chance to aim it.
Like all bikers, the motorcycle is my passion. Whenever I mount over my Honda Goldwing, the world disappears around me, just then, I fix my eyes on to the highway, feeling the breeze sliping though my face and staring to all things crossing my way. The sufferings disappear, the bitterness of work then whipes away leaving all daily worries to a second plane. And just being alone there in that world, my bike, myself… and you.

After many years thinking about it, I have finally decided to do it: I am going to travel around the Globe riding a Honda Goldwing GL 1800. And you might be thinking that I am one of so many people that have tried for it. Yes, it is true, but my challenge has one different factor: my budget is going to be of 0 Euros. And how will I strive for it then? It is simple; my challenge is at the same time my company. Note, it is not to make money, but to cost all expenses made by the project. By means of sponsorships, on one hand, and by striving for diverse actions, mainly of advertizing (like the sale of diverse merchandizing ), on the other hand, I hope to have the budget necessary to approach it.

My idea consists of crossing 198 countries from the five continents in the following years. And for it, I will need many things that you will be able to see in detail at my website Bienvenidos a la portada. But there is something I am not able to obtain with traditional means: your aid. That is the most important thing for me. The bikers are known to be comrades and supportive with other bikers, and I know that without your support and collaboration in it, this dream will turn very difficult to achieve.

You may ask yourself how it is possible. It is easy. Perhaps someday I will appear in front of you doorway, tired, sore from many kilometers, dirty, hungry… Anything that you might do in this sense will help. Perhaps, it is just the motorcycle and not me who is tired, sore, dirty or spoiled. Maybe you might want to help me to get rid of the dust, wash the mud worn from the trip or, protect the bike from the rain, the snow or the sun. Perhaps, if you live in the middle of nowhere at 200 kilometers from the nearest mechanic, you may check and test the motor. Perhaps I got out of gasoline, or I punctured a tire… Perhaps you may offer me lodge for some nights at your home, or give me company while we chat, eat something or rest.

Perhaps by just giving me a few cheers, it will be sufficient, or by indicating me a route in a map. Or, why not? , you also could ride your motorcycle side by side some kilometers with me and merging in that peace, those feelings of independence, these wonderful sensations we only perceive onboard of our motorcycle which we cannot describe with words. Any thing.

The project´s website Bienvenidos a la portada where you will obtain information and details of how to contribute and help me. I wont bother you more until next time…

Hugs, Juan Miravete Lopez
Bienvenidos a la portada ]]> New Rider Forum elwinger http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120677-around-world-goldwing-gl-1800-a.html <![CDATA[What's the... and where the??]]> http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120660-whats-where.html Thu, 12 Nov 2009 04:11:02 GMT What do you call the rubber seal or gasket that is behind the drive sprocket and where do I get one? I've been to a few shops and googled and ebay'd but I can't really pinpoint anything. Where can I get one from is my next question, along with one of those washers that I need to bend over one of the edges so the nut doesn't turn? ]]> New Rider Forum badamailey http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120660-whats-where.html 1979 kawasaki kz650 http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120628-1979-kawasaki-kz650.html Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:16:26 GMT i jest bought a 1979 kawa kz650 it runs good the only problem is when the bike is worming up i havee a light grey blue smoke coming out anyone have an idea? i jest bought a 1979 kawa kz650 it runs good the only problem is when the bike is worming up i havee a light grey blue smoke coming out anyone have an idea? ]]> New Rider Forum toclassic http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120628-1979-kawasaki-kz650.html Engine Warm UP Time http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120588-engine-warm-up-time.html Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:35:39 GMT How long do you let your engine run to warm up before driving? I've heard "a few minutes to let the oil spread throughout the engine" and also "as soon as it idles smoothly w/o the choke, it's ready."

Thoughts? ]]> New Rider Forum Nav130 http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120588-engine-warm-up-time.html Thanks Everyone http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120371-thanks-everyone.html Fri, 06 Nov 2009 07:31:03 GMT I just wanted to say "thank you" to everyone on this forum. I bought my first bike recently and used this forum extensively. Hopefully I will be able to give back to the community in the future. ]]> New Rider Forum BrentRedinger http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120371-thanks-everyone.html First two stroke please help http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120349-first-two-stroke-please-help.html Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:28:24 GMT Hey yall i recently bought a kx 125 its a super clean bike very nice well the first day i rode it I blew up my top head the piston looked like i was runnin straight gas but i mixed my fuel 31:2 like the previous owner told me. Well i'm sending my cylinder off to get it re sleeved and bored what are some tips to keep from having to rebuild this top end so often? ]]> New Rider Forum Nathan Pruitt http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120349-first-two-stroke-please-help.html Shot my HOG ! http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120283-shot-my-hog.html Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:01:59 GMT Howdy from Upstate NY Southern Adirondacks ! Im back ! Took a year off from riding due to health but im back for more. Sold my 1985 FLHTC and sold my 2005 FLHTP and bought this 2001 Vulcan 1500 .. Wow` what a smooth ride and has power left over .. I guess i had a Hog because it was my life style... Howdy from Upstate NY Southern Adirondacks !

Im back !

Took a year off from riding due to health but im back for more.
Sold my 1985 FLHTC and sold my 2005 FLHTP and bought this
2001 Vulcan 1500 .. Wow` what a smooth ride and has power
left over .. I guess i had a Hog because it was my life style but
my life style is to ride something with a better drive line and
softer ride. I found it in this 1500 Classic ..

Im happy as heck ..
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]]> New Rider Forum mrboo http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120283-shot-my-hog.html Old Rider Fairly new Bike http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120191-old-rider-fairly-new-bike.html Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:27:49 GMT :-D Just wanted to say ride safe and keep an eye in mirror. :biggrin: :-D Just wanted to say ride safe and keep an eye in mirror. :biggrin:
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]]> New Rider Forum Azvulcan http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120191-old-rider-fairly-new-bike.html New to the world http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120133-new-world.html Sun, 01 Nov 2009 20:48:01 GMT Hey everyone. I just bought a 1982 305CSR b1. I never even imagined myself riding a street bike, but recent events forced me to take the plunge. I purchased the bike for $400.00 and as you guess, it came with a couple od issues. I've been searching the web for 2 days now and cannot find a site to get parts and was wondering if anyone out there knew a good place to start looking. The parts that are needed most are the gas cap assembly and the rear brake shaft (the part that the brake lever attaches too). I'd very much appreciate any help. Thanks. ]]> New Rider Forum chr0m3 http://www.kawasakimotorcycle.org/forum/new-rider-forum/120133-new-world.html