The Ups And Downs Of Being A New Motorcycle Rider

2013 Suzuki Boulevard S40 'aka' Gizmotard

By - Debralyn Swanson (Florida) - I've always had a love for motorcycles since the first time I sat on one at the age of 17. I never thought I could ever ride one because of being 4'11". Now I'm 33 and I'm finally getting to live that dream...

My husband decided to buy me my first new Suzuki Boulevard S40 5 weeks ago. I was so excited and finally got up the courage to take the Basic Rider Course 2 weeks later. I passed the course with perfect scores in both the written and driving tests. But I still have my ups and downs with riding.

On the downside, as many state on this forum, I have trouble finding proper protection that fits. U-turns are my nemesis and no matter what I try, I struggle with them and now I'm afraid to do them for fear of dropping the bike or crashing. Also, I have short legs which ended up melting a pair of rain pants on the muffler no matter how far I tried to keep away from a hot pipe(A helpful tip I found to work on removing some melted stuff on pipes: A Magic Eraser. With a little water and a little elbow grease, it doesn't scratch the metal and it worked. I have also read and tried a method of using oven spray cleaner, which also worked. But take caution to what type of metal you use it on).

On the upside, I save money on gas by commuting with my bike instead of my car. I love the feeling of freedom when riding in the open, which I don't get in a car. The cost of oil changes and small maintenance is cheaper than a car. Insurance is cheaper. And on top of it all, I enjoy trips with my husband more now that I have my own bike to ride.

I do hope that I can conquer my fear and become a better rider. For now, all I can do is practice. If anyone has tips, I'm all for it!