Brand new to biking!

[ducatilover]

Welcome The VTR is a great choice of bike.
Get into the newbie rides. I rode with a mate who had been riding for some time when I first started on the road and spent all my spare time on the bike.

I still do actually...

Enjoy and be safe!

[Anita]

I can do some nights. But TUesday nights are definitely out. Which is a major bummer because that newbie ride sounds great! Any other times there are rides like that? If you come out this way can I join late?

[Quasi]

I can do some nights. But TUesday nights are definitely out. Which is a major bummer because that newbie ride sounds great! Any other times there are rides like that? If you come out this way can I join late?

There is also wed night ride. Generally goes over hill to Featherston, seems to work into two groups - the hasty tasty lads who quickly disappear at a fast and furious pace, then a group of slower riders which normally includes a few newbies who are mentored by some of our more experienced riders. But i wouldnt recommend this until you have a few k's under your belt and are confident about riding over the Rimutaka hill. I think if you can get onto the Tuesday rides, it will be a perfect start for you

[davebullet]

I'd just like to add... The Rimutakas are fine for a new rider, just do it when there is no wind (conditions are good).

Just ask an experienced rider to cover your tail so you don't have to stress about holding anyone up or cagers giving you a razzle. I've done that a couple of times for new bikers and it works quite well.

Even if you don't decide to ride with the group - turn up on Wednesday at the duck pond and introduce yourself. There's lots of friendly people. The gathering commences at 6pm (or some keen types might even be there earlier).

[Anita]

Thanks for all the input guys. It is such a cool community to belong to. Good tips here. I signed up to the free Motorbike course that the PCC are putting on this weekend. Meanwhiel I keep expanding my horizons and will hopefully be confident and competent enough to go out riding with a larger group over the Rimus!

[one fast tl1ooo]

welcome to kb

[Ratti]

Thanks for the headsup Quasi and Riffer, Nasty pointed Anita my way as well. took her out today on the pre-ride reccy I do for the Tuesday learners ride.

Hon? you are a pleasure to ride with. You ride within your ability and confidence level and you dont seem to need to prove anything. Its about the ride and YOU enjoying it YOUR way. Cant ask for anything else.

Was nice to pick up one of the senior riders along the way and we ended up spending an enjoyable time lounging around talking bikes 'n' stuff in McD's in Adelaide Rd. Just one of the good things about getting out and riding is the neat folk you bump into. It all helps me feel like Im part of a community, not just pootling along on my own.

Welcome along Anita and I'll let you know where we are going next week if you want to tag along on the reccy.

[Anita]

I am ready for that next ride. Loved it Ratti. I am pleased you thought I was ok to ride with. I must admit that was a worry! But all good. Have done a few more ks since we rode...would love another ride!

[Hawkeye]

I am ready for that next ride. Loved it Ratti. I am pleased you thought I was ok to ride with. I must admit that was a worry! But all good. Have done a few more ks since we rode...would love another ride!

Hi Anita,

I also live in Whitby. If you want someone to take you out just give a shout. I try to get along to the Tues night rides whenever I can and I'm also a regular on the Wed rides. I've got a mate with a 16 year old son who we take out at times so you are also welcome to tag along if available.

Just send me a PM if you would like to catch up. Always happy to help.

[Anita]

I did it! I did my restricted licence this week and passed with flying colours. I was dead nervous, but it all went off without a hitch. I can finally hand in that "L" plate. Now I have to work on the hours and experience to go for that full licence in 6 months time. I am doing it all to the date. It gives me that dead line that I need to keep motivated. Been on loads of rides by myself and with others...much appreciated!
How do you best learn to ride?????

[ital916]

How do you best learn to ride?????

By riding.

[Hawkeye]

I did it! I did my restricted licence this week and passed with flying colours. I was dead nervous, but it all went off without a hitch. I can finally hand in that "L" plate. Now I have to work on the hours and experience to go for that full licence in 6 months time. I am doing it all to the date. It gives me that dead line that I need to keep motivated. Been on loads of rides by myself and with others...much appreciated!
How do you best learn to ride?????

whooohoooooo!!! Well done Anita. Good to see your still getting out there. I've been too busy to get out myself so It has all been commuting rides for me

As has been already said, just get out riding in all conditions and in all types of traffic. It's the only way to gain the confidence and the skills.

[Anita]

Hawkeye, are you going to the Easter egg ride on Saturday? Or the Ulysses ride on Sunday? I'd love to go to one of them. Just gathering up courage!

[hardy-DAYTONA]

Finally, someone who started, and didnt buy a GN . congrats on the smart decision and welcome!

Seconded! It's so hard to buy a first bike and NOT resort to a GN...

[Hawkeye]

Hawkeye, are you going to the Easter egg ride on Saturday? Or the Ulysses ride on Sunday? I'd love to go to one of them. Just gathering up courage!

So sorry Anita.
Only just picked this up now. Next time ring or PM. You have my number. I'm going away Fri and Sat but will be around on Sun/Mon if you want to get out for a ride over Easter.