Steep Hills

Steep Hills

by Randi
(Philly, PA)

I just bought my first motorcycle this year and I'm really excited to go riding, but I have a rather terrifying problem that I hadn't considered. My driveway goes down hill at nearly a 45 degree angle to a busy street road. Most of the guys I've talked to, always talk about how they get the bike down but it never sounds very practical for a smaller girl. Also my bike isn't exactly small. I admit I haven't really tried yet (my significant other brings it down for me), but I hope to get the courage with some female advice. I don't personally know any female riders.

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Steep Hills

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Aug 24, 2011

Steep Hills
by: Anonymous

I also had a fear of hills. I loved straight and up hill but when I came to a steep down hill road I would go slow and annoy cars in back of me. I found small hills with no cars and practiced then went on to larger hills. Now I have no fear at all.

Jul 04, 2011

Same Problem
by: Sandra

I have a really steep driveway slop also. I have walked my Dyna down but my husband normally drives it down for me. I too am working on my courage to drive it down. I have only ridden a bike 3 times including my class so I am trying to give myself a break and time to learn.

May 26, 2011

Learn the basics, first.
by: Sandra

I would suggest, since this intimidates you, that you work on getting really comfortable in the saddle. Parking lot practice is invaluable for building confidence doing slow maneuvers, and getting a feel for handling the bike. Those slow maneuvers are actually tougher to master than cruising down the highway! When you feel in control on flat ground, search out a less intimidating hill to start out with, going up and down, practicing control, clutch and friction zone techniques, using that rear brake, gently. Then a steeper hill won't seem quite so daunting.

I know how you feel. I LOVE to ride, and living in flat northern Illinois, I don't have many challenges with terrain. Husband and I LOVE Gatlinburg, TN, and I considered a bike vacation there, but just KNOW I would FREAK OUT on those tight mountain turns we take getting to our preferred cabin atop Ober. So not ready for that yet.

May 26, 2011

Driveways
by: Lynn - FL

I have the same problem at home but luckily we have a flat walkway to the front door so I can back it there before heading down the driveway. If you don't have such an area, it's worth making one. I call it the landing pad. Usually my hubby moves it to the pad before I even get a chance.

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