I found the perfect bike!

by Amy Tindall (24)
(Pittsburgh)

I bought a motorcycle. Well, two motorcycles.

Let me first introduce you to the first motorcycle. A hardly-shiny, barely-running 1980 Suzuki GS850L.

This baby is big. Like nearly 700 lbs big. You're thinking, "well, people ride big motorcycles all the time". OF COURSE THEY DO. But let me detail my past history with two-wheeled motor vehicles: nil. Heck, I've only driven a four-wheeler. But it was 4:00 am and circumstances were a little hazy. I have driven a car, of course.

But because this motorcycle was only $200, I needed it.

This baby needs a tune-up. New air filters, oil filter, a paint job, a sheep-skin seat cover (clearly), it's leaking oil, carbs need to be cleaned and the wiring is a jungle of untamed vine monsters. .

And I need to ride now.

Which brings me to the second motorcycle. A more shiny, running 1981 Honda CM400T. I got it for $750, which is more, but still fairly cheap!

Yea, buddy! This motorcycle is lighter, much lighter. This bike weighs just under 400 lbs. Much more amateur friendly. This bike is ready to roll. All it needs is a smokin' hot red head, fringe chaps, leather jacket, leather boots, and a shiny hand-me-down helmet.

I picked it up this weekend and practiced in a small parking lot. I feel like I've caught on quickly! I rode it home which was about a half mile away and was slow city driving. I am so excited to start riding! It worked out well buying two bikes, now both me and my boyfriend have bikes and I'll have a riding partner!

I am confident that I will catch on to riding quickly. But, I'm nervous and have plans to take things very slowly. I've watched every youtube video on riding motorcycles. EVERY SINGLE ONE. I've read blogs, books, articles and forums (this one!). I have plans to ride as often as possible in the parking lot, so I can practice being a badass. Safely.