Since I got back from my 2 day instruction, I have been on the streets 3 times. Just riding up to the mall and practicing there. Doing laps around it, using the Rubber City Harley range.
Today I went to Hudson
I went to the mall to warm up first (a few laps, weaving to loosen myself up, stops, turns, etc), but then got gas and started the real ride. I was attempting to go to Hudson High where I'll be doing the Returning Rider course at the end of the month, but I missed a turn I didn't know I was supposed to take and just kept going lol. I pulled into an industrial park and looked at my gps to see I had overshot the turn by a mile or so. Not a big deal, after today, I know I can make it there. 28 miles round trip, not a problem now.
things I need to work on:
1. steady stops, 75% of the time I'm putting my foot down too quick.
2. those damn right hand turns from a stop. I either go wide, or like when I'm in the parking lot and I try to do it sharper, I stall. I'm not feeling the confidence there.
Otherwise, I'm feeling great
I'm relaxing more. I found that the more I grip the tank, the more loose I am on the bars. My hands didn't cramp up once today. I felt fine dealing with traffic and traffic lights. I really enjoy getting up to 50 mph lol (the highest speed limit on my journey was 45). Patiently waiting for the class so I can finally get my endorsement and ride on the interstate for the first time
all in all, I may have only put 40 miles on Takara this morning, but it felt awesome! I also got my first biker wave on the way back
I couldn't help but be excited when the dude on the Harley waved. I didn't feel comfy taking my hand off the bar or I would have been all Forrest Gump
Link to original page on YouTube.