Biased family members

[Sheba]

Just dealing with family members that are discouraging me to pursue motorbiking because of safety issues. Just wanted some input from those who have came across the same from either family or friends...

[Hiflyer]

Just dealing with family members that are discouraging me to pursue motorbiking because of safety issues. Just wanted some input from those who have came across the same from either family or friends...

When I first started riding my family and flatmates thought it was stupid, now both my flatmates have a bike and my family thinks its fine... My GF on the otherhand thinks its stupid and too dangerous :2guns:

I just told them to get over it, but if that's not how you go about things, get a bike, learn to ride and then get someone to follow you round town showing them that you arnt violently swerving everywhere and wheelying from the lights. (Thats how I convionced my mum haha she was quite pleased) :done:

[PrincessBandit]

Not quite what you asked for but:
IMO much depends on your age, family status, personality, and determination.

Age: assuming you are of license age, if you are still living at home (and under the age of, say, 17) then parents should still have a reasonable say in what you do simply by virtue of the fact that you are still living under their roof. That is if that criteria applies to you.

Family status: If you have young children who are dependent on you then you might want to reconsider, weighing up the consequences of worst case scenario happening. Very appropriate at this dreadful time of what some are going through on this site.

Personality: not everyone is suited to riding bikes and given that it is not a forgiving mode of transport you need to be clear in your own mind that it really is for you.

Determination: if despite all considerations, pros and cons blah blah blah, you still want to do it in face of all opposition then how determined are you to see it through?

Just my 2c.

[tommygun]

Just living is a safety issue in itself. My mum never wanted me to have a motorbike but in the end she accepted the fact that it was a part of my life.
My wife doesn't ride and wont ride but she also has accepted the fact that its a part of me to have a bike If it means a lot to you to have a bike then living with others opinions/concerns is also a factor.

[slofox]

Tell 'em your other choice is base jumping...

[CookMySock]

Listen to them. Show them all your safety gear. Do some training days and show them your certificates. Do a defensive driving course and put the cert up on the wall and point it out to them. Show them why you are actually a safer person on the road than you were before - talk it and walk it.

If you need to cane it, get on the track and have a go.

Steve

[paddy]

That's a hard one Sheba. I didn't come across that myself - in fact in the past your families position would have been my position. My Dad broke his arm flying over a car (I guess it was more the hitting the ground bit actually) when I was younger. I used to think that motorcycling is really dangerous.

Now I think it's a lot about risk mitigation and weighing the benefits to you against the remaining risk. There are lots of things that you can do to reduce the risk. Training, equipment, good self critique, competent third party critique....The risk is still higher than driving a car though. I have life insurance. Plan for the worst - expect the best.

Interestingly my pilots license increases my premiums considerably more than my motorcycle license.

[paddy]

Tell 'em your other choice is base jumping...

Now there's a social group we need: "I want to be a KB base jumper".

[Sheba]

Yeah, maybe I'll take up flying instead...or base jumping.

[StoneY]

Get the bike- tell em all to shove it- flip em the bird and wheelie out the driveway :done:

FREEDOM comes with a price and that price IS DangeR - there is always a risk in riding (sadly) but to me its worth it :mellow:

Missus StoneY rides with me- my 15 year old boy does too
Mum had a Gee Enn 250 for yrears, Dad rode- brothers ride- and none of us ever been badly hurt (touching my wooden head for luck now) in our spills over the years (and yes it happens) :stupid:

Tell em all to fuck off and live YOUR life YOUR way- :Punk:
But as many others suggest above- get the training- get the gear- minimise the risks as much as possible but your family are right :dodge:

It CAN be dangerous - live with it - and be free, you'll regret it forever if you don't follow YOUR heart matey

[MIXONE]

My mother gave me the ultimatum of not while you live under this roof.:nono:
I moved out the next day.:scooter:

[Mom]

Bit difficult to determine your age from your profile but I can give you my spin on handling things. I got my first bike when I was 16. My parents were horrified and extremely anti. I was not living at home mind you, I would not have had the balls to do it if I had been, but still they were not happy at all. No amount of assuring them I would be ok, I was not going to kill myself, or be killed made the blindest bit of difference, they were against it all the way.

I ended up making a living from bikes, and continued to ride. At this time, they stopped trying to convince me I was mad and simply accepted it. I know now from talking to my Mom that she was not happy. Kids came along, my riding days were very restricted, however when I did let her know I was riding somewhere, even as a pillion I got the "lecture".

My marraige ended and so for a while did my riding. I took all the important things with me when I moved, you know the sort of stuff, helemt, jacket, gloves boots etc but had no bike. Maybe one day, was my thinking at the time.

My son got a scooter as soon as he could and was buzzing around the place as sccoter riders do. Friggen dangerous things they are, anyway nothing I could do eh? He grew up with bikes. Then one day he came to me and said, I am getting a bike. My response "Hallelujah! I am very pleased!" He accused me of being an unnatural Mother! Imagine that!

I ride now. My Mother only says take care, I work with people that say I am mad, and how could I, and what about the danger? My friends for the most part think nothing of it, some (non-riders) do tell me to take care, and be careful but that is about it.

People have a perception of the risks, hells teeth we read about them often enough, nothing you can do to change how they think. Something in them has to change, or they simply have to accept it.

[ital916]

Just dealing with family members that are discouraging me to pursue motorbiking because of safety issues. Just wanted some input from those who have came across the same from either family or friends...

Tell them it is what you want to do and that family that cared would not oppose but support and learn to grow WITH you into your new hobby not AGAINST you.

[ital916]

Bit difficult to determine your age from your profile but I can give you my spin on handling things. I got my first bike when I was 16. My parents were horrified and extremely anti. I was not living at home mind you, I would not have had the balls to do it if I had been, but still they were not happy at all. No amount of assuring them I would be ok, I was not going to kill myself, or be killed made the blindest bit of difference, they were against it all the way.

I ended up making a living from bikes, and continued to ride. At this time, they stopped trying to convince me I was mad and simply accepted it. I know now from talking to my Mom that she was not happy. Kids came along, my riding days were very restricted, however when I did let her know I was riding somewhere, even as a pillion I got the "lecture".

My marraige ended and so for a while did my riding. I took all the important things with me when I moved, you know the sort of stuff, helemt, jacket, gloves boots etc but had no bike. Maybe one day, was my thinking at the time.

My son got a scooter as soon as he could and was buzzing around the place as sccoter riders do. Friggen dangerous things they are, anyway nothing I could do eh? He grew up with bikes. Then one day he came to me and said, I am getting a bike. My response "Hallelujah! I am very pleased!" He accused me of being an unnatural Mother! Imagine that!

I ride now. My Mother only says take care, I work with people that say I am mad, and how could I, and what about the danger? My friends for the most part think nothing of it, some (non-riders) do tell me to take care, and be careful but that is about it.

People have a perception of the risks, hells teeth we read about them often enough, nothing you can do to change how they think. Something in them has to change, or they simply have to accept it.

your really are like a mom to the young uns on kb mom :laugh:

Bless your kind heart.

[hospitalfood]

i think it is important to respect your family. it is equally important to make your own desicions in life and do what you want to do.

i think most accidents around town are caused by people not seeing motorbikes, if you remember this at all times they are not that hard to avoid.

i think most open road accidents are caused by people riding to fast, also easy to avoid.

i am open to being corrected on this.

a bike sitting in the garage is not dangerous, when ridden the danger level is determined by the riders decisions

[allycatz]

Hey Im a 49 yr old Mum of eight learning to ride much to the horror of my sisters and a few friends....my kids advice was 'cool' as long as I'm well insured...

[ital916]

Hey Im a 49 yr old Mum of eight learning to ride much to the horror of my sisters and a few friends....my kids advice was 'cool' as long as I'm well insured...

Mum of eight! Woah...you need a bike stat! :scooter:

Want some advice -

1) Buy the gear first and buy the bike with the leftover change.

2) buy gear that is warm and comfortable as well as protective. Dont worry too much about looks...that will come with time as you upgrade everything.

3) buy quality gear and shop around

4) If you feel uneasy or unsure then DONT do it. Example, you feel uncomfortable on motorways then dont go on them. Find an instructor, do a riding course or find a mentor.

5) Never be shy of saying -" I need a hand", you will make friends and learn lots.

6) enjoy yourself and relax. The less stressed you are, the more aware and attentive you can be to yourself and others on the road.

7) and as bad as this sounds, never assume a safe journey, be aware.

Have fun and show us your bike when you get it. Welcome to the family.

haha and what a dysfunctional family kb is.

[allycatz]

I have the gear....was learning on a crf250 but it was too tall....the scooter has given me heaps confidence on the road....i'll do the learn the ride classes soon at roadskills and decide whether i go small bike or bigger scooter...cheers for the info tho

[Sheba]

Bit difficult to determine your age from your profile but I can give you my spin on handling things. I got my first bike when I was 16. My parents were horrified and extremely anti. I was not living at home mind you, I would not have had the balls to do it if I had been, but still they were not happy at all. No amount of assuring them I would be ok, I was not going to kill myself, or be killed made the blindest bit of difference, they were against it all the way.

I ended up making a living from bikes, and continued to ride. At this time, they stopped trying to convince me I was mad and simply accepted it. I know now from talking to my Mom that she was not happy. Kids came along, my riding days were very restricted, however when I did let her know I was riding somewhere, even as a pillion I got the "lecture".

My marraige ended and so for a while did my riding. I took all the important things with me when I moved, you know the sort of stuff, helemt, jacket, gloves boots etc but had no bike. Maybe one day, was my thinking at the time.

My son got a scooter as soon as he could and was buzzing around the place as sccoter riders do. Friggen dangerous things they are, anyway nothing I could do eh? He grew up with bikes. Then one day he came to me and said, I am getting a bike. My response "Hallelujah! I am very pleased!" He accused me of being an unnatural Mother! Imagine that!

I ride now. My Mother only says take care, I work with people that say I am mad, and how could I, and what about the danger? My friends for the most part think nothing of it, some (non-riders) do tell me to take care, and be careful but that is about it.

People have a perception of the risks, hells teeth we read about them often enough, nothing you can do to change how they think. Something in them has to change, or they simply have to accept it.

Very cool story, thanks for sharing that. I like the idea of a KB 'mom' out there. :-)

[Maha]

Just dealing with family members that are discouraging me to pursue motorbiking because of safety issues. Just wanted some input from those who have came across the same from either family or friends...

I did when I first mentioned that I had bought a motorbike.
Mother was not overly happy about...and it took a sudden death of female friend aged 40 that turned her thinking around. She then told to ''enjoy your bike Mark, you just never know when ya times up''.

[FJRider]

Its not a safety issue ... :no:

Once you hit the ground (its not far down) you are perfectly safe.(just fall off in safe places) In a few years the scars wont be so noticeable ... and you will meet lots of really helpful and nice people at Doctors, and ACC offices. :yes:

And you can live on two thirds of your wage (less tax) on an ACC benefit. :blank:

Good gear helps ... reduce damage ... :msn-wink:




:chase: :chase: :chase: :chase: :innocent:

[p.dath]

Everyone has a personal risk profile Sheba.

Some find that smoking is an acceptabe risk, others don't.
Some find doing drugs an acceptabe risk, others don't.
Some find drinking and driving an acceptabe risk, others don't.
Some find scuba diving an acceptabe risk, others don't.
Some find running on the side of the road an acceptabe risk, others don't.
Some find driving a car an acceptabe risk, others don't.

The point is everyone takes risks. Nothing in life is 100% safe. You decide what your risk profile is, and you'll live happily within it. Almost certainly, your risk profile will be different to someone elses. That doesn't make you and them wrong, it's just different. And you, and them need to accept these differences.

[Maki]

I did when I first mentioned that I had bought a motorbike.
Mother was not overly happy about...and it took a sudden death of female friend aged 40 that turned her thinking around. She then told to ''enjoy your bike Mark, you just never know when ya times up''.

Great lesson, thanks.

My wife thought I was going to get something like a scooter, just for commuting, see. Now I have an R6, sure fooled her, mwuhahahahahaha :woohoo:

[NDORFN]

When I told my old lady that I've bought a bike, she told me about all the people we knew who had family die on bikes. When I told my old man that I've bought a bike, he told me they're death traps and encouraged me to get life insurance, yet a couple of years later, my old lady asks how the latest bike is going and my old man recently disclosed a few stories involving his ownership of bikes in his youth (one being a single cyclinder 500cc paddock basher... cool story). Funny how neither of them had any objections to me taking up gliding years ago, yet both of my original instructers have since died in glider accidents. I guess the moral is, follow your passion and they'll eventually accept and maybe encourage it. And try not to die riding or you'll look like a dick at your funeral.

[sleemanj]

I think you just need to do it, and if you're not in a position to do it without your parent's OK, then you're just not ready to do it.

There comes a time in your life when you have to make the decision for yourself, no matter what others (parents) say, you have your own life to live and must weigh the risks and benefits yourself.

In other words, don't wait for permission, just do it if you want to do it and have fully accepted the risks inherent.

When people say to me "but you could die" (with whatever activity is the subject of their interest), I usually reply with "yes, I could".

[Dean]

Im 17 sheba so quite young, I started riding when I was 14 on a gn250 and cb125. My mum hated the fact that I bought a bike, sometimes she will take my keys and hide them. Or steal my licence, hell sometimes she will park the family cars sideways so I couldnt get out of the driveway. The way I got through it is by showing your parents that you genuinely love biking, that its a life long passion and you fully understand the risks. Because of my passion and stories of meeting new freinds and awesome rides my brother now rides!!! My stepdad now rides!!!!! My sister's going for her bike licence!!!! And my mums pillioning on my stepdads gn for my upcoming tour of the north island!!!!!!!!!!!

[LBD]

My Dad rode and taught and encouraged me to ride....and gave me the freedom to ride with only the occasional well thought talking to about safety and sensible riding practices.

Now I have taught my Daughter to ride and she is moving on to bigger and more powerful machines...

Now I know what my Dad went through....Sorry Dad...

Keep this in mind, when a parent or friend or sibling is concerned about you on a bike....it WILL be out of genuine concern for your well being...give their opinions respect, and work on convincing them that you are a suitable and safe person on a bike...

Some good advice from Dangerous Bastard near the start of this thread....

[paddy]

my kids advice was 'cool' as long as I'm well insured...

So you kids are teenagers then? :-)

[paddy]

...my mums pillioning on my stepdads gn for my upcoming tour of the north island!!!!!!!!!!!

Hmmm....GN....pillioning. They should probably start and the top and go down so that it's downhill. Easier that way. :-)

[Dean]

Hmmm....GN....pillioning. They should probably start and the top and go down so that it's downhill. Easier that way. :-)

lol nah it goes alright with mum on the back, sure they go 70kph up hills but on straights they keep a healthy 100kph. The trip will be a while away we will be starting at cape reigna then down to wellington Id probably make a thread quite a few weeks/months in advance before the trip for others to join, its so awesome having a biker family the garage is always full lol.

[paddy]

Sheba,

You are just at the very beginning. Now I don't know what you "risk profile" is and I don't know what you motivation is. But he's what I would do:

Go to http://www.riderskills.co.nz/ and book yourself into a Basic Handling Skills course. It's $150 and if you want to carry on and get your learners you will need a BHS Certificate anyway.

You can book on-line. You just turn up with you. They will provide you with gloves (I didn't bother), helmet (I definitely bothered), and a suitable motorcycle (I found that bit essential). You get a couple of hours of instruction and practice and then the BHS test at the end. Presuming you pass the test that will give you the certificate you need to get your learners. You can then do the learners' Scratch & Win. The time period that you are required to stay on your learners will then be ticking away even if you are not riding and never do anything else with it.

(The only real difference between a learners and a restricted is that you can ditch the L plate which most folk will tell you is a good thing and you can ride up to the 100 km/h speed limit which ALL folk will tell you is a good thing. From what I remember there may also be alcohol differences but my personal opinion would be just don't.)

It sounds like it would be a good first step for you. Because you get some good support from the instructor to get started. You will get to figure out if it's "you" or not while riding someone else's bike that it's okay to drop. If you decide that it is you then you have your BHS Cert. that you need to carry on.

(Riderskills was just where I did mine because when I looked around he had the best price - there are other providers but I have no frame of reference to compare them.)

Good luck!

P.

[paddy]

Sheba Profile:
Bike: Kawasaki KLE 500

There something we don't know - or is that "the dream" for you? (In which case might want to wack a "I want a" or "my dream" in front of it. Remember that you can't ride anything over a 250 on your learners. Nice bike though. I could see myself on something like that although I'm personally partial to BMWs. Perhaps a nice F650 Dakar or a F800GS. (Anything up from that would probably be a bit much for me at the moment - at this stage I break something on my DR250 every-time I take it off the road. [Mental note]Don't get sideways on a 40 degree slope with no momentum - your downhill foot won't touch the ground. Idiot.[/end mental note]).

New clutch lever for me....

[trailblazer]

well my dad lost his life while riding a motorbike when i was 2yrs old so my family has always hated motorbikes. I have always loved bikes and have wanted 1 for as long as i can remember which has got me some pretty intense lectures from my family along with a threat that my uncle was going to burn my bike if i ever got 1. But last month when i finally purchased my first bike when i rang my mum to tell her she hit me with a suprise response. She said to me that Dad always loved his bike and he always had a smile after a ride so that she was glade that he died the way he did rather than some crap illness like cancer etc cause at least his last moments were happy ones doing what he loved. She just told me 3 things to do that will put her mind at ease. 1. take it easy and don't be a dick. 2. Always give my wife and son a hug and kiss and tell them i love them before i get on the bike. 3. Never ever get on the bike while i am angry. That meant alot to me cause now i can feal the passion that dad had for bikes and 1 day i will be able to share that with my son.

[PrincessBandit]

lol nah it goes alright with mum on the back, sure they go 70kph up hills but on straights they keep a healthy 100kph. ........ its so awesome having a biker family the garage is always full lol.

I hear you there! We have 3 bikes and riders in our house (me, husband and son). I have pillioned my 17 year old son on the back on the ginny once going home from school (one of the schools I teach at is his school). 2up on the wee ginny was ok for a short distance but I wouldn't want to do a longish ride like that! It was probably a little different for me as he was the heavy one one the back rather than me (he's on his R so is not allowed to pilot yet).

It is very cool having a family who ride. Even our daughter is getting a bit interested......

But the flip side is we are very aware of staying as safe as possible and minimising risks as much as we're able. Doesn't mean we don't have fun - we do. We're more easily delighted with just riding without having to indulge in acts which jeopardise our safety any more than need be. We'll happily leave that to others!

[Laxi]

1. take it easy and don't be a dick. 2. Always give my wife and son a hug and kiss and tell them i love them before i get on the bike. 3. Never ever get on the bike while i am angry.

mums do know best! awsome advice there :niceone:

[Fatt Max]

your really are like a mom to the young uns on kb mom :laugh:

Bless your kind heart.

Just what I was thinking. Mom, you are a legend and no mistake...

Can I have a lolly now?

[Sheba]

Sheba Profile:
Bike: Kawasaki KLE 500

There something we don't know - or is that "the dream" for you? (In which case might want to wack a "I want a" or "my dream" in front of it. Remember that you can't ride anything over a 250 on your learners. Nice bike though. I could see myself on something like that although I'm personally partial to BMWs. Perhaps a nice F650 Dakar or a F800GS. (Anything up from that would probably be a bit much for me at the moment - at this stage I break something on my DR250 every-time I take it off the road. [Mental note]Don't get sideways on a 40 degree slope with no momentum - your downhill foot won't touch the ground. Idiot.[/end mental note]).

New clutch lever for me....

The dream only at this point, I'm afraid. Changes made. Thanks for pointing that out. :-) I see you pay attention to details...

[Sheba]

Sheba,

You are just at the very beginning. Now I don't know what you "risk profile" is and I don't know what you motivation is. But he's what I would do:

Go to http://www.riderskills.co.nz/ and book yourself into a Basic Handling Skills course. It's $150 and if you want to carry on and get your learners you will need a BHS Certificate anyway.

You can book on-line. You just turn up with you. They will provide you with gloves (I didn't bother), helmet (I definitely bothered), and a suitable motorcycle (I found that bit essential). You get a couple of hours of instruction and practice and then the BHS test at the end. Presuming you pass the test that will give you the certificate you need to get your learners. You can then do the learners' Scratch & Win. The time period that you are required to stay on your learners will then be ticking away even if you are not riding and never do anything else with it.

(The only real difference between a learners and a restricted is that you can ditch the L plate which most folk will tell you is a good thing and you can ride up to the 100 km/h speed limit which ALL folk will tell you is a good thing. From what I remember there may also be alcohol differences but my personal opinion would be just don't.)

It sounds like it would be a good first step for you. Because you get some good support from the instructor to get started. You will get to figure out if it's "you" or not while riding someone else's bike that it's okay to drop. If you decide that it is you then you have your BHS Cert. that you need to carry on.

(Riderskills was just where I did mine because when I looked around he had the best price - there are other providers but I have no frame of reference to compare them.)

Good luck!

P.

Wow, thanks for the info. Sounds like a good place to start.

[Sheba]

well my dad lost his life while riding a motorbike when i was 2yrs old so my family has always hated motorbikes. I have always loved bikes and have wanted 1 for as long as i can remember which has got me some pretty intense lectures from my family along with a threat that my uncle was going to burn my bike if i ever got 1. But last month when i finally purchased my first bike when i rang my mum to tell her she hit me with a suprise response. She said to me that Dad always loved his bike and he always had a smile after a ride so that she was glade that he died the way he did rather than some crap illness like cancer etc cause at least his last moments were happy ones doing what he loved. She just told me 3 things to do that will put her mind at ease. 1. take it easy and don't be a dick. 2. Always give my wife and son a hug and kiss and tell them i love them before i get on the bike. 3. Never ever get on the bike while i am angry. That meant alot to me cause now i can feal the passion that dad had for bikes and 1 day i will be able to share that with my son.

Thanks for sharing that. Some very good advice out there. I'm learning that KB people have lots of opinions, mostly good ones, and heaps of life experience.

[NordieBoy]

Mum gave me her Yammy SR185 for my 21st :D

That left her with her Yammy QT50 scooter.

[paddy]

well my dad lost his life while riding a motorbike when i was 2yrs old so my family has always hated motorbikes. I have always loved bikes and have wanted 1 for as long as i can remember which has got me some pretty intense lectures from my family along with a threat that my uncle was going to burn my bike if i ever got 1. But last month when i finally purchased my first bike when i rang my mum to tell her she hit me with a suprise response. She said to me that Dad always loved his bike and he always had a smile after a ride so that she was glade that he died the way he did rather than some crap illness like cancer etc cause at least his last moments were happy ones doing what he loved. She just told me 3 things to do that will put her mind at ease. 1. take it easy and don't be a dick. 2. Always give my wife and son a hug and kiss and tell them i love them before i get on the bike. 3. Never ever get on the bike while i am angry. That meant alot to me cause now i can feal the passion that dad had for bikes and 1 day i will be able to share that with my son.

That's a really cool story (not cool that he died obviously). I love that you are able to connect to you dad in that way. That really is very special. And topical given the situation of Alex/Anika/Connor in some of the other threads.

[paddy]

Mum gave me her Yammy SR185 for my 21st :D

That left her with her Yammy QT50 scooter.

Did ya say thank you? :-)

[howdamnhard]

Just dealing with family members that are discouraging me to pursue motorbiking because of safety issues. Just wanted some input from those who have came across the same from either family or friends...

Well it is more dangerous than driving a car. But as others have said it depends on the person and their circumstances. Everything has risk. If you calculate it is worth it for you and your circumstances then do it. It's a balance between risk and reward. You need to have some risk to know that you are alive but not so much that you are dead. Just do it if thats what you want to do but minimise your risks by learning as much as you can and using the right gear. You will never minimise risk totally , in whatever you do and if it is your time then it is your time.
Riding is indeed great for making you know that you are alive , salve for the soul.

[Stickchick]

My whole family (including me) hated motorcycles as my sisters boyfriend got killed on one when he got hit by a 66 year old drunk driver at the age of 21. When I started going out with a Motorcyclist it changed everything for me. I loved the freedom of being on the back and I wanted to have a go myself so my partner started to teach me. I moved to the Hawkes Bay and learnt to ride more up there by some great friends. I even had 11 Bikes escort me for my first proper road ride. My parents were mortified. Right up till the day they met the people I rode with. They soon changed their tune. They realised that I wasn't riding with a bunch of twats and that I was being well looked after when riding.

Now I recently fell off and thought "shit Mum and Dad are gonna kill me". But I didn't even get a lecture. The only thing my Mum had to say was just get back on and try again. She reckons the smile on my face after a ride is well worth seeing.

Your family and friends will eventually come around to the idea when they see how much you love it.

[CookMySock]

FREEDOM comes with a price and that price IS DangeRUh not really. With great freedom comes great RESPONSIBILITY, not danger.

Danger comes from great freedom with NO responsibility.

Steve

[caseye]

DB what have you been drinking man? Both of your post here have been frankly, Brilliant.
Sheba, everyone else's comments are pretty much spot on, take your time learn everything you can and treat all other motorists as IDIOTS while your'e amongst them on your bike.
DB's advice,words of encouragement above couldn't be truer, you make your own luck and you can minimize pretty much all of the danger, by taking the responsibility and rdiing accordingly, STONEY yer wrong, well kinda anyhow, lol.

[Sheba]

Wow, I never realised how wise KBers can be. And I'm really enjoying hearing everyone's experiences, how you started, etc. It's really cool and encouraging me to seek my dreams, but with care and thought put into it. Thanks guys.

[The Stranger]

DB what have you been drinking man? Both of your post here have been frankly, Brilliant.


DB would like to apologise, he forgot to log off and one of his kids got at the keyboard.
"Normal" service will return shortly.

[CookMySock]

DB would like to apologise, he forgot to log off and one of his kids got at the keyboard.
"Normal" service will return shortly.Haha, cmon I just think differently to you. We're not always going to agree. Celebrate our differences!

Steve

[The Stranger]

Haha, cmon I just think differently to you. We're not always going to agree. Celebrate our differences!

Steve

Couldn't agree more, would be a dull world if we were all the same and I do celebrate our differences - frequently I assure you.

[paddy]

The dream only at this point, I'm afraid. Changes made. Thanks for pointing that out. :-) I see you pay attention to details...

Out of idle curiosity - what piqued your interest in the KLE (or riding for that matter)?

[paddy]

Haha, cmon I just think differently to you. We're not always going to agree. Celebrate our differences!

Steve


Couldn't agree more, would be a dull world if we were all the same and I do celebrate our differences - frequently I assure you.

Nah. I'm sure you're wrong. Both of you.

[Sheba]

Out of idle curiosity - what piqued your interest in the KLE (or riding for that matter)?

Good questions. I've read that they are rated highly for new riders. A little high off the ground, but once it gets going, a great ride. It's been quoted that they are brilliant value for the money, appear very reliable and economical to run. Plus I like the way it looks. I could start a thread asking advice of which bike would be best to get, but I'm afraid I would get hundreds of opinions and get too confused.

As far as riding, as a young teenager I rode on the back of a bike once and LOVED the sensation of the speed in open spaces, not confined in a car. And then I met a most wonderful person that gave me a few rides and since then, fell in love with riding. Don't know how realistic at this point, but a girl can dream, can't she? :done:

[paddy]

I've read that they are rated highly for new riders.

Gonna have to wait for the law to change for that one unfortunately (in NZ). A learner isn't currently allowed a bike bigger that 250cc (which is really stupid given the speed that some 150cc machines can achieve). There are draft recommendations to alter this to 150 kilowatts pre tonne which should bring the KLE into reach.

Take a look at the Australian LAMS scheme -> http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/lams/ I believe the NZ scheme is expected to be very similar.

There are quite a few bikes that are similar: F650GS, KLR650, Pegaso,...

[paddy]

I could start a thread asking advice of which bike would be best to get, but I'm afraid I would get hundreds of opinions and get too confused.

No sense of adventure whatsoever. C'mon guys - what bike should Sheba aspire to. [steps back quickly]

[Sheba]

Gonna have to wait for the law to change for that one unfortunately (in NZ). A learner isn't currently allowed a bike bigger that 250cc (which is really stupid given the speed that some 150cc machines can achieve). There are draft recommendations to alter this to 150 kilowatts pre tonne which should bring the KLE into reach.

Take a look at the Australian LAMS scheme -> http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/lams/ I believe the NZ scheme is expected to be very similar.

There are quite a few bikes that are similar: F650GS, KLR650, Pegaso,...

Hmmmm, well, I guess step one is saving money and researching. Boy, you have a lot of information in that head of yours. Good resource, thanks.

[paddy]

Take a look at the Australian LAMS scheme -> http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/lams/ I believe the NZ scheme is expected to be very similar.

Wow. I just discovered Peugeot made/makes motorbikes....off to google to find out more.

[ital916]

No sense of adventure whatsoever. C'mon guys - what bike should Sheba aspire to. [steps back quickly]

A pink one :laugh:

[Sheba]

Wow. I just discovered Peugeot made/makes motorbikes....off to google to find out more.

What did you find out information man?

[Sheba]

A pink one :laugh:

I've actually considered that...with a pink helmet. I've seen a very nice one relatively recently, but didn't look long enough to see what make/model.

[ital916]

What did you find out information man?

I can tell you that their scooters are crazy, you could wheelie them everywhere! and by wheelie I mean....WHEEEEEELIE!

[ital916]

I've actually considered that...with a pink helmet. I've seen a very nice one relatively recently, but didn't look long enough to see what make/model.

Well if you ever need a hand with gear or just someone to bore you for hours showing you whats available and giving you the talk through everything haha then come see me at motomail. We have pink helmets and pink jackets.

[vifferman]

Wow. I just discovered Peugeot made/makes motorbikes....off to google to find out more.
Well... they're more scroters than bikes, but a couple of them are tasty. The smaller ones are made in China or somewhere.

[CookMySock]

I could start a thread asking advice of which bike would be best to get, but I'm afraid I would get hundreds of opinions and get too confused.[...] Don't know how realistic at this point, but a girl can dream, can't she?Well, heres the thing. Where do you want to be in five years? Do you want to be a tourer, sport bike rider, commuter, adventure rider or what?

For sport bike riders, there are riders who steer with their arse, and their are riders who steer with the bars. Riders who were brought into riding initially steering with the BARS become ambidextrous and can steer with either their arse or the bars. Riders who were brought into riding steering with their arse can indeed learn to push on the bars here and there, but never really develop their skills past a certain point, and when push comes to shove they can steer with the bars if they have to. When faced with their imminent death, it is unlikely they will steer with bars, and now they face death by the hand of their own arse. :doh:

Others will paint a picture for you about the other riding disciplines, but for sport riding I think you see the moral of the story. Absolute newbies should never steer with their arse until such time they are 100% at home on the bars.

edit: If I could have my way, I'd put a brace on newbies so they couldn't steer with their arse.

Steve

[Markw336]

i had this problem to start with my mum is an ambulance officer so she scrapes bikers off the road and she wasn't very happy with the thought that i was going to get my bike license but...

i eventually convinced her and she then now she says that she will not let her career stop me from having fun and doing what i want to do

same story with my car license she wouldn't let me drive her but i proved i was good and now shes happy lol

[Grubber]

My Dad told me i would have to move out if i brought a motorbike due to how it would upset my Mum.
My Mum was the first to ride pillion with me and my Dad fixed my race bike.
They get over it eventually.:Punk:

[90s]

You just have to respect their opinions as they yours.

I thought carefully 6 months ago when I was placed on anti-coagulant drugs. It has really upped the risk - but then I do other "risky" acitvities such as road and mountain biking, garden mowing and chain-sawing and splitting logs with an axe.

I had to go through the stuff I went through 20 years ago when my family accepted I wanted to ride a motorbike, and pretty much the same as then realised I would need to be careful, but I would live my life.

I reviewed my armour, have been ATGATT for a long time etc anyway. But whereas the previous post said people get over it, I think many people get used to it but are never happy with it. They all hoped I'd stop riding now, but accepted I would carry on.

[paddy]

Get out - do a BHS. It only takes a couple of hours out of your day (and maybe a drive depending on how close you are to the central city). They have them in the weekends and during the week. Let us know how you find it. I'm sure it will be fun...

[Rosie]

Good questions. I've read that they are rated highly for new riders. A little high off the ground, but once it gets going, a great ride. It's been quoted that they are brilliant value for the money, appear very reliable and economical to run. Plus I like the way it looks. I could start a thread asking advice of which bike would be best to get, but I'm afraid I would get hundreds of opinions and get too confused.

As far as riding, as a young teenager I rode on the back of a bike once and LOVED the sensation of the speed in open spaces, not confined in a car. And then I met a most wonderful person that gave me a few rides and since then, fell in love with riding. Don't know how realistic at this point, but a girl can dream, can't she? :done:

If you like the idea of the KLE, you might like to look at some of the smaller dual purpose 250's - an XT250, or Super Sherpa 250 would make excellent learner bikes. And would set you in good stead for something gravel capable like the KLE.

[paddy]

If you like the idea of the KLE, you might like to look at some of the smaller dual purpose 250's - an XT250, or Super Sherpa 250 would make excellent learner bikes. And would set you in good stead for something gravel capable like the KLE.

You have a good point in terms of off-road/adventure learning (regardless as to whether the law changes or not) - LIGHTER IS BETTER. My DR250 weighs in at around 125 KG and sometimes it feels like a tonne.

Can I recommend some light reading while you are waiting (if you are interested in adventure riding). These were written by Jo and Gareth Morgan (the parents of Sam Morgan who founded TradeMe). I'm pretty sure Gareth was fairly well off to start with though - I seem to recall him giving away his share of the TradeMe windfall? Anyway, they should be available through your local library:

Silk Riders
Backblocks America
Under African Skies

Also, it's worth watching Long Way Round, Race to Dakar, and Long Way Down (yes I know there is mixed opinion about whether Ewan and Charlie are "true" adventure riders but to be honest - I'm not going to look down my nose at them).

P.

[Sheba]

Get out - do a BHS. It only takes a couple of hours out of your day (and maybe a drive depending on how close you are to the central city). They have them in the weekends and during the week. Let us know how you find it. I'm sure it will be fun...

Forgive my ignorance on the subject, but do you need your own bike for this?

[paddy]

Forgive my ignorance on the subject, but do you need your own bike for this?

Without seeming terribly rude (no really) can I point you at my earlier post in this thread:


Sheba,

You are just at the very beginning. Now I don't know what you "risk profile" is and I don't know what you motivation is. But he's what I would do:

Go to http://www.riderskills.co.nz/ and book yourself into a Basic Handling Skills course. It's $150 and if you want to carry on and get your learners you will need a BHS Certificate anyway.

You can book on-line. You just turn up with you. They will provide you with gloves (I didn't bother), helmet (I definitely bothered), and a suitable motorcycle (I found that bit essential). You get a couple of hours of instruction and practice and then the BHS test at the end. Presuming you pass the test that will give you the certificate you need to get your learners. You can then do the learners' Scratch & Win. The time period that you are required to stay on your learners will then be ticking away even if you are not riding and never do anything else with it.

(The only real difference between a learners and a restricted is that you can ditch the L plate which most folk will tell you is a good thing and you can ride up to the 100 km/h speed limit which ALL folk will tell you is a good thing. From what I remember there may also be alcohol differences but my personal opinion would be just don't.)

It sounds like it would be a good first step for you. Because you get some good support from the instructor to get started. You will get to figure out if it's "you" or not while riding someone else's bike that it's okay to drop. If you decide that it is you then you have your BHS Cert. that you need to carry on.

(Riderskills was just where I did mine because when I looked around he had the best price - there are other providers but I have no frame of reference to compare them.)

Good luck!

P.

[Sheba]

Without seeming terribly rude (no really) can I point you at my earlier post in this thread:

Life is too short and many more things bigger than this to be offended. However, there has been a much bigger response than I anticipated to my original question that I quickly forget what I've read. And you tend to include lots of info, albeit helpful, that I probably glossed over that point. Thanks though for redirecting me to your earlier post.

[paddy]

And you tend to include lots of info, albeit helpful, that I probably glossed over that point.

I do have the problem. Or so my boss tells me. :-)

[Sheba]

If you like the idea of the KLE, you might like to look at some of the smaller dual purpose 250's - an XT250, or Super Sherpa 250 would make excellent learner bikes. And would set you in good stead for something gravel capable like the KLE.

Cool, thanks for the suggestion. I am interested in something dual purpose where I can get off paved roads on occasion, so that's very helpful.

[Sheba]

Just thinking of buying a first bike and read a thread by someone who just bought their first bike, second hand and already has problems with it. I have a friend who also bought a bike second hand and always seems to be working on it. I'm not mechanical at all and don't know many mechanical people. This has got me concerned that in order to get into riding, you'll be fixing things all the time. Is this too general of a statement? Should I stay away from second hand bikes? Maybe stay on paved, normal roads?

[paddy]

Just thinking of buying a first bike and read a thread by someone who just bought their first bike, second hand and already has problems with it. I have a friend who also bought a bike second hand and always seems to be working on it. I'm not mechanical at all and don't know many mechanical people. This has got me concerned that in order to get into riding, you'll be fixing things all the time. Is this too general of a statement? Should I stay away from second hand bikes? Maybe stay on paved, normal roads?

That's all part of the fun. I'm sure they'd be plenty of folks here to help you out. I learnt heaps just taking my bike apart and using Google. Having said that, there are plenty of folk who buy new and just ride back into the dealer at the appropriate service intervals...

[denefoster]

FWIW: There is a KLE 250 as well. I've got one :) It's a bit colourful (pink, purple, green and white) but it's alright. My girl uses it as her first bike. It's a bit of a hoot, if you can live with the crap suspension. She still hasn't told her parents that she rides though, and everyone she has told thinks she's a nutter. But she's a pretty tiny, prim and proper young Pole.

With my parents (who live in a different country, and have since I started riding) I just don't tell them about minor biffs until I heal up. They're generally pretty encouraging about it all.

edit: pink, purple, green and white AND orange !

[Hiflyer]

Now there's a social group we need: "I want to be a KB base jumper".

Done <_<



I hope no-one else made a group cos I couldnt be bothered reading all the pages so I just made one haha

Clicky (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/group.php?groupid=130)

[paddy]

Done <_<



I hope no-one else made a group cos I couldnt be bothered reading all the pages so I just made one haha

Clicky (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/group.php?groupid=130)

Took a wee while - but I'm glad somebody got there!

[paddy]

FWIW: There is a KLE 250 as well. I've got one :) It's a bit colourful (pink, purple, green and white) but it's alright. My girl uses it as her first bike. It's a bit of a hoot, if you can live with the crap suspension. She still hasn't told her parents that she rides though, and everyone she has told thinks she's a nutter. But she's a pretty tiny, prim and proper young Pole.

Looks like it's got a nice low seat too. The pictures I can find don't quite look as nice as the new KLE does - but still a good first option. I wonder if it's much lighter than the KLE500 or if you'd be better off waiting for the law change and buying the KLE off the bat (who knows when that will actually go through though - does anyone know if it's part of the November 1st changes)?


edit: pink, purple, green and white AND orange !

Might have been easier to perhaps list the colours that they chose not to use?

[denefoster]

We had some seat foam removed for the wee girly. Good for her, but it was all the foam in front of my man bits. Ow =\

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=135319&d=1248160160

Still haven't heard time frames for the new learner regs.. if they're not far off. I'd wait. Only because buying old clunkers sucks.

[paddy]

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=135319&d=1248160160

That's funny. I saw that bike on TM and was wanting to bid - I just didn't have the wherewithal at the time. I wondered if that was it based on your colour description. :-)

[denefoster]

Just thinking of buying a first bike and read a thread by someone who just bought their first bike, second hand and already has problems with it. I have a friend who also bought a bike second hand and always seems to be working on it. I'm not mechanical at all and don't know many mechanical people. This has got me concerned that in order to get into riding, you'll be fixing things all the time. Is this too general of a statement? Should I stay away from second hand bikes? Maybe stay on paved, normal roads?

Better to spend a bit more up front than to get nickle and dimed later on. Especially as your safety can be compromised. Sure there's a few on here that'd be willing to help check out a bike for you. My KLE 250 was a decent deal (2k or so). But was never registered in NZ, so needed a bunch of running around, new rear rotor, new pads all around and could use a new chain,WoF and reggo.. That was another grand right up front. And I'm still left with a 15 year old bike. Spend as much as you can afford up front to get the latest and greatest is my opinion.

[retro asian]

Just dealing with family members that are discouraging me to pursue motorbiking because of safety issues. Just wanted some input from those who have came across the same from either family or friends...

Attend NASS or do riding courses to learn how to ride safely, then prove your family wrong by not having any accidents! :niceone:

[Sheba]

Attend NASS or do riding courses to learn how to ride safely, then prove your family wrong by not having any accidents! :niceone:

Or I could not tell them 'til I heal up nicely like 'denefoster' said. I'm pretty good at hiding injuries and pain. :-)

[Sheba]

[QUOTE=denefoster;1129427132]FWIW: There is a KLE 250 as well. I've got one :) It's a bit colourful (pink, purple, green and white) but it's alright. My girl uses it as her first bike.

Ah, that's great to hear! And good advice about just spending the money on something newer. I'm learning that is generally the better way to go with most things, especially if you are not a DIY person.

[paddy]

Or I could not tell them 'til I heal up nicely like 'denefoster' said. I'm pretty good at hiding injuries and pain. :-)

Yep. Just push that bone back in and carry right on along. :-)

[denefoster]

Yep. Just push that bone back in and carry right on along. :-)

I'd never had a broken bone till I moved here (thank god, I used to live in Fiji.. hellish medical system), then got hit by a car. Still nothing broken. Then a week later the wee Pole stepped on my foot (which was the one hit by a car) a few times.. broken ! So I got off easy on telling the folks about that one ! Motorbikes fine, girlfriends baaad.

But yeah, second the notion about RRRS, or NASS. Heck, ask to be signed up for a birthday/christmas present. You can say "I'll do it regardless, but you can help make me safer" kind of thing. And I'm no AGATT guy (I ride to work in shorts most days, but it's 1.0kms in stop start traffic in my defense ;p), but good gear is a good thing. I get far more respect from people when I turn up in full leathers than my shorts and feel a hell of a lot more comfortable.

[Sheba]

Yeah, I'm thinking of buying good gear first to let people know I'm serious.

[Sheba]

Yep. Just push that bone back in and carry right on along. :-)

Ahhh, a true biker has spoken...

[paddy]

Yeah, I'm thinking of buying good gear first to let people know I'm serious.

Just putting my broken record hat on again: do the BHS and the learner test first. Then, while you are saving for the good gear you want to buy your time requirements for the learner license are still ticking away. Also, if you do the BHS and decide it's not for you (hope you don't) you haven't spent a grand on gear.


Ahhh, a true biker has spoken...

I wouldn't go that far...

[Sheba]

[QUOTE=paddy;1129429020]Just putting my broken record hat on again: do the BHS and the learner test first.

Okay, okay, got it....geez. :-)

[paddy]

I might also add that the reference to RRRS above is:

http://www.bronz.org.nz/riderightridesafe.html

And when NASS is referred too, it's North Auckland Street Skills. It's a group of KBers that meet every Wednesday night in the Albany Megacentre (not Westfield) carpark and practice "drills" under the guidance of experienced riders. I've only made it once but I can say it is very valuable.

(I think they actually meet up at Westgate and then ride through to Albany as a group but I just met them in Albany. I don't about that stuff on the other side of the bridge. I've heard all sorts of very weird stuff happens over there...)

[murdercycle]

If it's any help, I'm 22 and I'm living at home (I'm a student/between jobs)

I bought a bike recently, and mum is NOT IMPRESSED, but she's on holiday in england for another few weeks so there's nothing she can do but there'll be hell to pay when she gets back :P

Mums are the same no matter how old you are.

I bought a bike that's a little small for me but I'm 6'2 so there's not much in my size when you're stuck on 250cc.
If you own an old bike and you're not mechanical you will be very soon, at least that's what I'm finding!

[paddy]

I bought a bike recently, and mum is NOT IMPRESSED, but she's on holiday in england for another few weeks so there's nothing she can do but there'll be hell to pay when she gets back :P


:-) My Mum and Dad both used to ride when we were in England. In fact it wasn't until we came to NZ that we had a car. Now they're starting to think about bikes again (after 20 years away from them). Mum still doesn't know how to drive a car.


Mums are the same no matter how old you are.

Now that I definitely agree with. I have my own kids, but Mum is still, well, Mum. (Although I do tend to call her Granny now.)

[trailblazer]

[QUOTE=paddy;1129423392]That's a really cool story (not cool that he died obviously). I love that you are able to connect to you dad in that way. That really is very special. And topical given the situation of Alex/Anika/Connor in some of the other threads.[/QUOTE

Yeah it is pretty cool being able to share my dads passion even though he isn't here.

[trailblazer]

Uh not really. With great freedom comes great RESPONSIBILITY, not danger.

Danger comes from great freedom with NO responsibility.

Steve

Awesome words there dude.

[Sheba]

Hey! Just got the okay to do a BHS. :2thumbsup

So you can rest easy paddy, I'm making that my first step. Just need to find the time and money now.

[paddy]

Hey! Just got the okay to do a BHS. :2thumbsup

So you can rest easy paddy, I'm making that my first step. Just need to find the time and money now.

Cool. Keep us all posted.

[Indiana_Jones]

Just dealing with family members that are discouraging me to pursue motorbiking because of safety issues. Just wanted some input from those who have came across the same from either family or friends...

When I told my old man I wanted to ride he pretty much push me into it and started looking for one the next day lol


When I first started riding my family and flatmates thought it was stupid, now both my flatmates have a bike

Same with some of my mates lol

-Indy

[caseye]

Go get that BHS Sheba, it'll be the beginning of a beautiful relationship with bikes and riding.

[Spazman727]

My mates dad's fater said that he wasnt allowed to get a bike untill he was 50, he waited untill he was 50 before he got his licence. My parents said the same thing so I got mine when I was 21. If you want to do it just do it. In my opinion you can only really regret things you didn't do.

[Renegade]

yeah i like the whole "ok your right...i wont ride it on the road because its to dangerous, ive signed up for track days instead, i can race it in a safer enviroment then" worked for my mother, followed by me calling her a hypocrite because she rode as a teenager.

[Renegade]

[QUOTE=paddy;1129423392]That's a really cool story (not cool that he died obviously). I love that you are able to connect to you dad in that way. That really is very special. And topical given the situation of Alex/Anika/Connor in some of the other threads.[/QUOTE

Yeah it is pretty cool being able to share my dads passion even though he isn't here.


I to share this, most of the things i enjoy in my life now were introduced to me at a young age by a person no longer here, only now do i appreciate who he was as a person because i to now share his passions.