Dropped my bike today! :(

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 07:19 PM

I knew I shouldn't have gone for a "practice" ride today. I have been sick all weekend and I was too weak too ride today, but I went anyways. I couldn't stand it anymore and thought I'd be ok. I not only dropped my bike once, but I did it twice!

I managed to drop it on both sides and it happened when I was making a turn in both instances. Everything went great until I had to make the turns. I keep wanting to slow down (way to slow) and this is my mistake! Besides having a bruised knee, I am ok, however, my bike is not ok!

ALL of my fairings are now scratched, both mirrors and side lights are badly scratched (broke one of the side lights), my handlebars are scratched on the ends and my gear shift is bent inward. Now, when I put it in 1st, the bike completely dies on me. I also can't key lock my bike. The left fairing near the side light is cracked almost an inch.

This all breaks my heart because the bike was in mint condition before I rode it today.

Here's the thing...because someone has broken into my checking account and taken all of my money (in dispute with my bank), I don't have any money to fix the bike. Is there a certain type of glue that I can use on the fairing? I have a friend that's gonna look at the gear shift and try to fix it for me. As far as the scratches on the fairings, is there some type of compound that I can use to minimize the scratches? UGH!!! This is horrible!

k1prototype · October 19th, 2009, 07:32 PM

Sorry to hear that Connie, hopefully you get things straightened out with the bank and get the bike ready in time for the remainder of this season if not before next season starts.

bob706 · October 19th, 2009, 07:36 PM

Um...that really sucks about the bike, your knee, and your bank issue. One of those days when you shoulda stayed in bed. Try some polishing compound on the scratches. Maybe epoxy for the fairings? Don't let it get you down too much

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 07:45 PM

Thank you Kareem. I sure hope it works out that way! Thank you Sean! I wondered about the epoxy myself so I will try that. I am trying to not let this get me down. It's been a long time since I have ridden and I'm more or less a beginner again. One thing is for sure...I will take the MSF course before I do anything else stupid! Lesson learned...the hard way!

Samer · October 19th, 2009, 07:52 PM

Hey Connie,

Really sorry about your bike. Main thing is that you're okay and you don't sound discouraged and you aren't quitting riding all together.

Just curious, were you leaning at all? or you were just going so slow that the bike wasn't stable and you couldn't use your feet to keep the bike upright?

Either way, I hope you resolve the fraud issue as well. S*IT happens sometimes :-(

Greg_E · October 19th, 2009, 07:53 PM

I have been told it is ABS plastic, if it is then I have used this stuff on ABS and acrylic:
http://www.usplastic.com/catalog/pro...roduct_id=2273
You need to get the little bottle and the needle tip to apply it all too. There is a special ABS solvent cement similar to this stuff that would probably be better. This will screw up the paint! Align the pieces and apply the solvent from the BACK side to minimize the paint interaction. The solvent should get sucked into the crack and cause the joint to be solid in a short amount of time, just hold the pieces together for a while. Test on something that isn't too visible. You may need to remove the paint around the cracks inorder for the solvent to work correctly.

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 08:01 PM

Hey Samer. No, I wasn't leaning. I tense up when making turns and instead of leaning, I sit straight up and I keep wanting to go forwards until the last minute. I am a small person...5'2" and once the bike starts to fall, I can't pick it back up. I tried to catch it using my feet on the ground and by pulling it back up, but it was too late. I had wanted to practice my turns today, but failed big time. I will be taking the MSF class soon and I know this will help me out alot. Thankfully, I was in full gear today so the only thing that got hurt was my knee. It's just bruised really bad, plus I pulled some muscles in my back from trying to keep the bike from falling. I was more concerned about my bike getting hurt than me! I was practicing in my neighborhood by the way...not on the busy streets! I def need practice with turning! Jeesh!!!

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 08:03 PM

GREG: Thanks for that info. I will check into that for sure. I really appreciate it!

Samer · October 19th, 2009, 08:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Majik

Hey Samer. No, I wasn't leaning. I tense up when making turns and instead of leaning, I sit straight up and I keep wanting to go forwards until the last minute. I am a small person...5'2" and once the bike starts to fall, I can't pick it back up. I tried to catch it using my feet on the ground and by pulling it back up, but it was too late. I had wanted to practice my turns today, but failed big time. I will be taking the MSF class soon and I know this will help me out alot. Thankfully, I was in full gear today so the only thing that got hurt was my knee. It's just bruised really bad, plus I pulled some muscles in my back from trying to keep the bike from falling. I was more concerned about my bike getting hurt than me! I was practicing in my neighborhood by the way...not on the busy streets! I def need practice with turning! Jeesh!!!

Okay Connie, I think I understand. I figured it would be difficult for you to use your feet to keep it up because you are petite.

I have one suggestion even before you take the MSF course. Practice on a bicycle. The MSF actually states that being able to ride and balance a bicycle is a prerequisite for the class. Ride your bicycle and really focus on what you are doing. If you don't have a bicycle, get one or borrow a friend's. What is critical is learning to balance it at very low speeds < 10 MPH, and if you can, try mentally noting the difference in bike behavior when you get above about 10 MPH, that is "counter-steer". When you get that fast, two things happen, it becomes much easier to balance the bike, actually it basically balances itself, and you push on the handlebar in the direction you want to turn. Push left to go left, push right to go right. For me, if you know that, then you know the foundations of riding a motorcycle. Good luck!

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 08:25 PM

Thanks Samer!! I have a bicycle and I can ride it all day long with no problems. I lean into my turns and balance the bike great, rather going fast or slow. I think it's the fear of all the power with a motorcycle. I have a hard time making a turn after coming to a stop. If I'm already rolling, I seem to do better. When first taking off, it feels as though the whole bike will go over if I lean into the turn. Jeesh....like I said, I'm basically a beginner again. My 1st bike was a Suzuki 125 and I never had trouble with that bike. I never dropped it, not even once. The Ninja 250 is a lot heavier than the 125 was..that's for sure! Maybe I also need to lower the bike. I've had a couple of people suggest that to me. I didn't really want to do that because I hear that it interferes with turning...and I'm already having issues with that.

I'm not a quitter and I will keep practicing. I am not ready to give up! Thanks SO MUCH for all of your help and suggestions!

Samer · October 19th, 2009, 08:36 PM

Okay, my last post on this thread, I promise. This guy has some great videos for newbies like you and me!

http://www.youtube.com/user/CaptCras.../9/_F_0ri2hezY

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 08:43 PM

Oh KEWL! Thanks for the video Samer!! And by the way, you can post however many times you want. Doesn't bother me none! I appreciate it all!!!

backinthesaddleagain · October 19th, 2009, 08:46 PM

sorry about the drop. main thing is you are ok. came close yesterday to dropping it when rear tire went into a bunch of pine needles. i was already picturing picking it up and riding when bike straightened out. hope you get feeling well soon and get "back in the saddle."

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 09:15 PM

GREG: Thank you so much. I'm glad that yours didn't make the drop! Sand, pine needles, gravel = YIKES

for bike riders!!! I was in full gear and so only my knee got bruised (pretty bad though). At least its too cold to wear shorts now so noone will see my huge purple knee~cap! LOL!! As soon as my gear shifter is fixed, I'll be back in the saddle again...can't wait either!

backinthesaddleagain · October 19th, 2009, 09:23 PM

thats the attitude. when we were younger a friend and i both were out riding dirtbikes. he had just got his new bike that day. he hit a small jump and landed squirrely. the best thing he could have done would have been to crash at that point, instead he kept it upright for about 100 feet, maybe more, in an effor to save it, he crashed into a wall and bent the forks. what a first day.

anyhow, just keep practicing, learn what you can, get better, and have fun.

kkim · October 19th, 2009, 09:25 PM

straighten the shifter with it off the bike as trying to straighten it while on it can lead to damage to the shift that's coming out of the transmission.

the bike dying when putting it into first is most likely a damaged side stand switch located near the kickstand.

dropping a brand new bike sucks as a newb, which is why most recommend a first time rider buy a used bike to start off with. you don't feel so bad when you damage a used bike.

heal up, read some riding technique books and get back on the horse when you feel the urge.

pictures of the bruised knee would be appreciated!!

Ash · October 19th, 2009, 09:27 PM

I'm glad you are okay (mostly). That is most important.

vet415 · October 19th, 2009, 09:35 PM

Glad to hear all is well, well, for the most part. The bike can be fixed. Just think of it as "experience".

Good luck to ya

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 10:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kkim

straighten the shifter with it off the bike as trying to straighten it while on it can lead to damage to the shift that's coming out of the transmission.

the bike dying when putting it into first is most likely a damaged side stand switch located near the kickstand.

dropping a brand new bike sucks as a newb, which is why most recommend a first time rider buy a used bike to start off with. you don't feel so bad when you damage a used bike.

heal up, read some riding technique books and get back on the horse when you feel the urge.

pictures of the bruised knee would be appreciated!!

Pshhttttt!!! Pictures of my bruised knee? HeeHee...hmmmm...well ok...maybe! I didnt think about the side stand switch being damaged.

Thanks for that tip. My bike is actually a used 2008...the previous owner just kept it in mint condition. Never dropped...no scratches...nothing...until now! YAY me! LOL!! I need to get some sliders (whatever they're called) to protect my bike from future drops. I'm sure there will be another drop. Wait...NO! I gotta stop thinking that way...there will be no more drops! No way Josea!

Majik · October 19th, 2009, 10:02 PM

Thank you Ash and Gene! I appreciate that! Yall are ALL making me feel so much better! Thank ya thank ya!

k1prototype · October 19th, 2009, 10:56 PM

Connie,

Another suggestion once you get your bike fixed. Shim the carbs!

Mine are shimmed and I have a friend whose bike is not. I rode his bike this weekend and I noticed the bike was so lean that the power was not smooth. Basically it felt like it was going to die as soon as I tried to apply power until it hit at least 3-4k rpms.

He is a new rider and immediately felt much more confident on my bike when he rode it considering how much smoother the power delivery is on my bike compared to his.

Another thing when you turn try not to tense up. Look in the direction you want to go and let it flow naturally. Tensing up only causes you the problem you were stating earlier. Also like you suggested you might want to lower the bike. If you can't flat foot the bike, it also psychologically can make riding a nervous experience.

A cheaper alternative to fixing the fenders (considering the bank situation) might be to go semi-nekkid a la street fighter look.

Here is a video on how to bypass the kickstand safety switch.

Link to original page on YouTube.

Majik · October 20th, 2009, 12:34 AM

Kareem: Thank you so much. That is really helpful and I appreciate you sharing that with me! Thanks for all of your tips also. Being a beginner

, I'm a wee bit nervous but I know that I will overcome it with practice. Thanks for responding to my post! It has helped me out alot!

kkim · October 20th, 2009, 12:38 AM

I second the suggestion of shimming the needles... makes it so much easier to control the power at lower rpms.

zartan · October 20th, 2009, 12:41 AM

Kareem has a good suggestion about shimming because it will get rid of that dead space right at the beginning of turning the throttle. Making it more predictable..

I would love to see you fix that switch rather than bypass it. Leaving that stand down and taking off into your first left can toss you away... so sorry you dropped your bike. Keep up the learning and you will have it in no time. I know it is not hard not to but, Don't beat yourself up. Plastic can be replaced by saving nickels and more nickels. But your self esteem is priceless.!!

zartan · October 20th, 2009, 12:42 AM

Oh fine KKIM>> quick to the draw

k1prototype · October 20th, 2009, 12:59 AM

Connie,

here is how to replace your kickstand safety switch, it is pretty simple:

Link to original page on YouTube.

Here is one on how to replace the shift lever

Link to original page on YouTube.

I would also look at the other videos posted by the guy who made those videos along with other beginner rider videos. They really helped me when I was first learning to ride. Also if you get a chance take another MSF beginner rider course. They really helped me develop the mindset and skills to first get underway.

I would look at crazedlist.org (does multiple craigslist search for parts) to see if you can get some cheap parts. Much better then trying to go to a stealership.

Greg_E · October 20th, 2009, 06:16 AM

If you go with that solvent glue, make sure you have good ventilation! It is nasty stuff! If you are doing a lot of gluing it might be wise to set up a fan about 10 feet away, you don't want to evaporate the solvent too fast, but you want to keep the solvent out of your lungs.

HKr1 · October 20th, 2009, 07:28 AM

Sorry to hear

F3nrir125 · October 20th, 2009, 08:23 AM

I feel you on how the bike is messed up before riding. I had an accident on a night where I was tailgated by some cager/ricer with his scion tc and went down on my right side while i was on a uphill right turn. I have a dented tank (can live with it just some pdr work), mirrors, exhaust, fairings scratched up, broken turn signal, and a broken right rear set.
Yes, I rode back home with the pieces in my pocket, with one leg dragging, and no rear brakes.

Right now I fixed the bike in usable condition with turn signals and rearset, but didn't bother to fix the body work until I plan on selling it.

I recommend that guy Wes Collins from the youtube page. A great guy to deal with and with great pricing. I got a few parts from him and will be buying fairings from him in the future. This is his company's page- http://www.mylittlesalesman.com/

subiegy2010 · October 20th, 2009, 01:22 PM

You should definitely lower the bike. I dropped my mint condition bike on my first ride too, so I know how it feels. I made the noob mistake of not letting it warm up before riding and it stalled going up a slight hill. I'm only about 5'4"-5'5" so wasn't able to get my feet down to save it. The very next day I ordered a lowering kit and a Shogun crash kit. Now that I can get both feet down, I am MUCH more confident riding it; the difference is day and night! The sliders help for the added peace of mind as well.

I've actually had it stall another time since then; I was coasting down a flat road and starting to slow down for a turn ahead and as soon as I grabbed the clutch, the RPMs fell (as they should) and it died. Once again, it wasn't warmed up yet. Good news is that this time I was able to actually put my feet down and NOT dump the bike.

This also means that my first mod next spring will be shimming the carb needles, as other have already said.

zail · October 20th, 2009, 03:06 PM

Sorry to hear you dropped your bike - glad you're ok though! Well, apart from the knee. Have dropped my new gen twice but the worst drop was with my pre gen when I dropped it riding out of the garage and broke my leg in 2 places

As a shorty too my advice would be to start by getting the preload set to it's lowest setting and then get someone to scoop the seat out for you - or buy a spare seat and get that done. That way you can get the bike as low as you can without actually lowering and changing the handling - I think you said on another thread you had some boots that gave you an extra inch or so? You're a bit taller than me - I'm 5'1" with 26" inside leg - and I can manage with scooped out seat, preload altered and ordinary boots.

Good luck with whatever you decide and I hope it doesn't put you off

noche_caliente · October 20th, 2009, 04:39 PM

Sorry to hear about the drop sweetie. My advice for the crack is to use a fiberglass patch kit on the inside of the fairing. That will allow the adhesive to spread over a larger area and make it less likely to continue to vibrate loose

Majik · October 20th, 2009, 06:15 PM

You guys are ALL so wonderful! Not only have you made me feel better, but you have also given me some great and very useful information. I appreciate this more than you guys know! I'm very grateful that I found this site! Thanks to all of you, I've made some wonderful new friends!

DEXSPEED · October 20th, 2009, 07:48 PM

don't forget to use cold compress for the bruises.

i just got my bike shimmed 100% improvement throttle control wise you should do it

vet415 · October 20th, 2009, 08:01 PM

Hey, how's the knee doing? Ibuprofen can be your best friend, lol. Take care

Majik · October 23rd, 2009, 11:32 AM

Thanks everyone. I'm doing alot better. My knee looks worse than it actually is. I haven't been able to ride since the drop because I'm waiting for a friend (who knows what they're doing) to come fix the gear shift and to shim the carbs for me. I am wondering why I can't key lock the bike. Does anyone know why this may be? There were no problems with that before the drop! I can use the key to turn the bike on and off but I can't lock the handlebars now.

Once again...EVERYBODY...thanks SO MUCH for your concern, help, advice and wonderful videos. You all are the bomb!!!

mikedabike64 · October 23rd, 2009, 11:46 AM

I get that, I usually follow my gut, if your feeling weak, take a rain check on the ride...
Sometimes I skip an opportunity to ride If Iam not feeling 100% mentally or phyically. Sorry about the bike, hope your ok.

Alex · October 23rd, 2009, 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Majik

I can use the key to turn the bike on and off but I can't lock the handlebars now.

Check out the hints in this thread about the handlebar lock...

Samer · October 23rd, 2009, 01:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex

Check out the hints in this thread about the handlebar lock...

Now you got me confused, all I see is a news story about "Ride to Work Day"

Ananda · October 23rd, 2009, 01:59 PM

Hey Connie sorry about the falls. I fell going into a turn too and scratched up some of the same spots you mentioned. Taking the MSF helped me 200% in the riding department. Much better to drop someone else's bike while you're learning! (j/k)
But seriously all those little things like low speed turns you'll get to practice over and over. It will give you a done of confidence when you're done.

October 19th, 2009, 07:19 PM	#1
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	Dropped my bike today! :( I knew I shouldn't have gone for a "practice" ride today. I have been sick all weekend and I was too weak too ride today, but I went anyways. I couldn't stand it anymore and thought I'd be ok. I not only dropped my bike once, but I did it twice! I managed to drop it on both sides and it happened when I was making a turn in both instances. Everything went great until I had to make the turns. I keep wanting to slow down (way to slow) and this is my mistake! Besides having a bruised knee, I am ok, however, my bike is not ok! ALL of my fairings are now scratched, both mirrors and side lights are badly scratched (broke one of the side lights), my handlebars are scratched on the ends and my gear shift is bent inward. Now, when I put it in 1st, the bike completely dies on me. I also can't key lock my bike. The left fairing near the side light is cracked almost an inch. This all breaks my heart because the bike was in mint condition before I rode it today. Here's the thing...because someone has broken into my checking account and taken all of my money (in dispute with my bank), I don't have any money to fix the bike. Is there a certain type of glue that I can use on the fairing? I have a friend that's gonna look at the gear shift and try to fix it for me. As far as the scratches on the fairings, is there some type of compound that I can use to minimize the scratches? UGH!!! This is horrible! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 19th, 2009, 07:32 PM	#2
k1prototype k1prototype Name: k1prototype Location: The world Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Ducati ST4 Posts: 93	Sorry to hear that Connie, hopefully you get things straightened out with the bank and get the bike ready in time for the remainder of this season if not before next season starts. __________________________________________________ 2001 Ducati ST4 Bleu 2008 Ninja 250R Rouge ~ Sold!

October 19th, 2009, 07:45 PM	#4
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	Thank you Kareem. I sure hope it works out that way! Thank you Sean! I wondered about the epoxy myself so I will try that. I am trying to not let this get me down. It's been a long time since I have ridden and I'm more or less a beginner again. One thing is for sure...I will take the MSF course before I do anything else stupid! Lesson learned...the hard way! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 19th, 2009, 08:01 PM	#7
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	Hey Samer. No, I wasn't leaning. I tense up when making turns and instead of leaning, I sit straight up and I keep wanting to go forwards until the last minute. I am a small person...5'2" and once the bike starts to fall, I can't pick it back up. I tried to catch it using my feet on the ground and by pulling it back up, but it was too late. I had wanted to practice my turns today, but failed big time. I will be taking the MSF class soon and I know this will help me out alot. Thankfully, I was in full gear today so the only thing that got hurt was my knee. It's just bruised really bad, plus I pulled some muscles in my back from trying to keep the bike from falling. I was more concerned about my bike getting hurt than me! I was practicing in my neighborhood by the way...not on the busy streets! I def need practice with turning! Jeesh!!! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 19th, 2009, 08:03 PM	#8
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	GREG: Thanks for that info. I will check into that for sure. I really appreciate it! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 19th, 2009, 07:36 PM	#3
bob706 ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Sean Location: Mary Esther, FL Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250 1998 HD Road King Posts: A lot.	Um...that really sucks about the bike, your knee, and your bank issue. One of those days when you shoulda stayed in bed. Try some polishing compound on the scratches. Maybe epoxy for the fairings? Don't let it get you down too much

October 19th, 2009, 07:52 PM	#5
Samer ninjette.org guru Name: Samer Location: Jupiter, Florida Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250R SE Posts: 376	Hey Connie, Really sorry about your bike. Main thing is that you're okay and you don't sound discouraged and you aren't quitting riding all together. Just curious, were you leaning at all? or you were just going so slow that the bike wasn't stable and you couldn't use your feet to keep the bike upright? Either way, I hope you resolve the fraud issue as well. S*IT happens sometimes :-(

October 19th, 2009, 07:53 PM	#6
Greg_E ninjette.org sage Name: Greg Location: central new york Join Date: Aug 2009 Motorcycle(s): 90 Suzuki gsx600f Katana, 03 Buell XB9R Posts: 868	I have been told it is ABS plastic, if it is then I have used this stuff on ABS and acrylic: http://www.usplastic.com/catalog/pro...roduct_id=2273 You need to get the little bottle and the needle tip to apply it all too. There is a special ABS solvent cement similar to this stuff that would probably be better. This will screw up the paint! Align the pieces and apply the solvent from the BACK side to minimize the paint interaction. The solvent should get sucked into the crack and cause the joint to be solid in a short amount of time, just hold the pieces together for a while. Test on something that isn't too visible. You may need to remove the paint around the cracks inorder for the solvent to work correctly.

October 19th, 2009, 08:25 PM	#10
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	Thanks Samer!! I have a bicycle and I can ride it all day long with no problems. I lean into my turns and balance the bike great, rather going fast or slow. I think it's the fear of all the power with a motorcycle. I have a hard time making a turn after coming to a stop. If I'm already rolling, I seem to do better. When first taking off, it feels as though the whole bike will go over if I lean into the turn. Jeesh....like I said, I'm basically a beginner again. My 1st bike was a Suzuki 125 and I never had trouble with that bike. I never dropped it, not even once. The Ninja 250 is a lot heavier than the 125 was..that's for sure! Maybe I also need to lower the bike. I've had a couple of people suggest that to me. I didn't really want to do that because I hear that it interferes with turning...and I'm already having issues with that. I'm not a quitter and I will keep practicing. I am not ready to give up! Thanks SO MUCH for all of your help and suggestions! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 19th, 2009, 08:36 PM	#11
Samer ninjette.org guru Name: Samer Location: Jupiter, Florida Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250R SE Posts: 376	Okay, my last post on this thread, I promise. This guy has some great videos for newbies like you and me! http://www.youtube.com/user/CaptCras.../9/_F_0ri2hezY

October 19th, 2009, 08:43 PM	#12
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	Oh KEWL! Thanks for the video Samer!! And by the way, you can post however many times you want. Doesn't bother me none! I appreciate it all!!! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 19th, 2009, 08:46 PM	#13
backinthesaddleagain ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Greg Location: Rhode Island Join Date: Apr 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2013 ZX6R 636 Posts: A lot.	sorry about the drop. main thing is you are ok. came close yesterday to dropping it when rear tire went into a bunch of pine needles. i was already picturing picking it up and riding when bike straightened out. hope you get feeling well soon and get "back in the saddle."

October 19th, 2009, 09:15 PM	#14
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	GREG: Thank you so much. I'm glad that yours didn't make the drop! Sand, pine needles, gravel = YIKES for bike riders!!! I was in full gear and so only my knee got bruised (pretty bad though). At least its too cold to wear shorts now so noone will see my huge purple knee~cap! LOL!! As soon as my gear shifter is fixed, I'll be back in the saddle again...can't wait either! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 19th, 2009, 09:23 PM	#15
backinthesaddleagain ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Greg Location: Rhode Island Join Date: Apr 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2013 ZX6R 636 Posts: A lot.	thats the attitude. when we were younger a friend and i both were out riding dirtbikes. he had just got his new bike that day. he hit a small jump and landed squirrely. the best thing he could have done would have been to crash at that point, instead he kept it upright for about 100 feet, maybe more, in an effor to save it, he crashed into a wall and bent the forks. what a first day. anyhow, just keep practicing, learn what you can, get better, and have fun.

October 19th, 2009, 09:25 PM	#16
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.	straighten the shifter with it off the bike as trying to straighten it while on it can lead to damage to the shift that's coming out of the transmission. the bike dying when putting it into first is most likely a damaged side stand switch located near the kickstand. dropping a brand new bike sucks as a newb, which is why most recommend a first time rider buy a used bike to start off with. you don't feel so bad when you damage a used bike. heal up, read some riding technique books and get back on the horse when you feel the urge. pictures of the bruised knee would be appreciated!!

October 19th, 2009, 09:27 PM	#17
Ash ninjette.org member Name: Ash Location: Baltimore, Maryland Join Date: Apr 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Posts: 114	I'm glad you are okay (mostly). That is most important.

October 19th, 2009, 09:35 PM	#18
vet415 ninjette.org member Name: Gene Location: McDonough, Ga Join Date: Aug 2009 Motorcycle(s): '08 YZ250, '06 Katana 600, 06 Ninja 250, '06 YZ250 Posts: 61	Glad to hear all is well, well, for the most part. The bike can be fixed. Just think of it as "experience". Good luck to ya

October 19th, 2009, 10:02 PM	#20
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	Thank you Ash and Gene! I appreciate that! Yall are ALL making me feel so much better! Thank ya thank ya! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 19th, 2009, 10:56 PM	#21
k1prototype k1prototype Name: k1prototype Location: The world Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Ducati ST4 Posts: 93	Connie, Another suggestion once you get your bike fixed. Shim the carbs! Mine are shimmed and I have a friend whose bike is not. I rode his bike this weekend and I noticed the bike was so lean that the power was not smooth. Basically it felt like it was going to die as soon as I tried to apply power until it hit at least 3-4k rpms. He is a new rider and immediately felt much more confident on my bike when he rode it considering how much smoother the power delivery is on my bike compared to his. Another thing when you turn try not to tense up. Look in the direction you want to go and let it flow naturally. Tensing up only causes you the problem you were stating earlier. Also like you suggested you might want to lower the bike. If you can't flat foot the bike, it also psychologically can make riding a nervous experience. A cheaper alternative to fixing the fenders (considering the bank situation) might be to go semi-nekkid a la street fighter look. Here is a video on how to bypass the kickstand safety switch. Link to original page on YouTube. __________________________________________________ 2001 Ducati ST4 Bleu 2008 Ninja 250R Rouge ~ Sold!

October 20th, 2009, 12:34 AM	#22
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	Kareem: Thank you so much. That is really helpful and I appreciate you sharing that with me! Thanks for all of your tips also. Being a beginner , I'm a wee bit nervous but I know that I will overcome it with practice. Thanks for responding to my post! It has helped me out alot! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 20th, 2009, 12:38 AM	#23
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.	I second the suggestion of shimming the needles... makes it so much easier to control the power at lower rpms.

October 20th, 2009, 12:41 AM	#24
zartan ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: zartan Location: spam la Join Date: Oct 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08 250 R Posts: A lot.	Kareem has a good suggestion about shimming because it will get rid of that dead space right at the beginning of turning the throttle. Making it more predictable.. I would love to see you fix that switch rather than bypass it. Leaving that stand down and taking off into your first left can toss you away... so sorry you dropped your bike. Keep up the learning and you will have it in no time. I know it is not hard not to but, Don't beat yourself up. Plastic can be replaced by saving nickels and more nickels. But your self esteem is priceless.!! __________________________________________________ "Don't let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision" Colin Powell

October 20th, 2009, 12:42 AM	#25
zartan ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: zartan Location: spam la Join Date: Oct 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08 250 R Posts: A lot.	Oh fine KKIM>> quick to the draw __________________________________________________ "Don't let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision" Colin Powell

October 20th, 2009, 12:59 AM	#26
k1prototype k1prototype Name: k1prototype Location: The world Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Ducati ST4 Posts: 93	Connie, here is how to replace your kickstand safety switch, it is pretty simple: Link to original page on YouTube. Here is one on how to replace the shift lever Link to original page on YouTube. I would also look at the other videos posted by the guy who made those videos along with other beginner rider videos. They really helped me when I was first learning to ride. Also if you get a chance take another MSF beginner rider course. They really helped me develop the mindset and skills to first get underway. I would look at crazedlist.org (does multiple craigslist search for parts) to see if you can get some cheap parts. Much better then trying to go to a stealership. __________________________________________________ 2001 Ducati ST4 Bleu 2008 Ninja 250R Rouge ~ Sold!

October 20th, 2009, 06:16 AM	#27
Greg_E ninjette.org sage Name: Greg Location: central new york Join Date: Aug 2009 Motorcycle(s): 90 Suzuki gsx600f Katana, 03 Buell XB9R Posts: 868	If you go with that solvent glue, make sure you have good ventilation! It is nasty stuff! If you are doing a lot of gluing it might be wise to set up a fan about 10 feet away, you don't want to evaporate the solvent too fast, but you want to keep the solvent out of your lungs.

October 20th, 2009, 07:28 AM	#28
HKr1 IC2(SW) Name: Kerry Location: Pensacola Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): . Posts: A lot.	Sorry to hear

October 20th, 2009, 08:23 AM	#29
F3nrir125 ninjette.org member Name: George Location: Chicago Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250r Posts: 11	I feel you on how the bike is messed up before riding. I had an accident on a night where I was tailgated by some cager/ricer with his scion tc and went down on my right side while i was on a uphill right turn. I have a dented tank (can live with it just some pdr work), mirrors, exhaust, fairings scratched up, broken turn signal, and a broken right rear set. Yes, I rode back home with the pieces in my pocket, with one leg dragging, and no rear brakes. Right now I fixed the bike in usable condition with turn signals and rearset, but didn't bother to fix the body work until I plan on selling it. I recommend that guy Wes Collins from the youtube page. A great guy to deal with and with great pricing. I got a few parts from him and will be buying fairings from him in the future. This is his company's page- http://www.mylittlesalesman.com/

October 20th, 2009, 01:22 PM	#30
subiegy2010 noob in training Name: Ilya Location: Milwaukee, WI Join Date: Aug 2009 Motorcycle(s): '08 Ninja 250R (sold) '05 SV650S Posts: 175	You should definitely lower the bike. I dropped my mint condition bike on my first ride too, so I know how it feels. I made the noob mistake of not letting it warm up before riding and it stalled going up a slight hill. I'm only about 5'4"-5'5" so wasn't able to get my feet down to save it. The very next day I ordered a lowering kit and a Shogun crash kit. Now that I can get both feet down, I am MUCH more confident riding it; the difference is day and night! The sliders help for the added peace of mind as well. I've actually had it stall another time since then; I was coasting down a flat road and starting to slow down for a turn ahead and as soon as I grabbed the clutch, the RPMs fell (as they should) and it died. Once again, it wasn't warmed up yet. Good news is that this time I was able to actually put my feet down and NOT dump the bike. This also means that my first mod next spring will be shimming the carb needles, as other have already said.

October 20th, 2009, 03:06 PM	#31
zail ninjette.org member Name: zail Location: Bristol, UK Join Date: Apr 2009 Motorcycle(s): 08 Ninja 250r Posts: 156	Sorry to hear you dropped your bike - glad you're ok though! Well, apart from the knee. Have dropped my new gen twice but the worst drop was with my pre gen when I dropped it riding out of the garage and broke my leg in 2 places As a shorty too my advice would be to start by getting the preload set to it's lowest setting and then get someone to scoop the seat out for you - or buy a spare seat and get that done. That way you can get the bike as low as you can without actually lowering and changing the handling - I think you said on another thread you had some boots that gave you an extra inch or so? You're a bit taller than me - I'm 5'1" with 26" inside leg - and I can manage with scooped out seat, preload altered and ordinary boots. Good luck with whatever you decide and I hope it doesn't put you off __________________________________________________ Bristol, UK - R&G Tail Tidy, Exhaust Hanger, Bar ends & Crash Protectors, Skidmarx Hugger & Double Bubble, SW motech mirror extenders, Scorpion Exhaust, Cycle Control levers & Rearset Adjusters

October 20th, 2009, 04:39 PM	#32
noche_caliente ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Kim Location: mundo de ensueño Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): '08 250 Posts: A lot.	Sorry to hear about the drop sweetie. My advice for the crack is to use a fiberglass patch kit on the inside of the fairing. That will allow the adhesive to spread over a larger area and make it less likely to continue to vibrate loose __________________________________________________ Progrip tank pad, blue rim stripes, blue Pazzos, Roaring Toyz lowering kit, Puig DB in dark smoke, Cortech sport tail, super mini tank, and saddlebags, OES swingarm spools and Intuitive frame sliders

October 20th, 2009, 06:15 PM	#33
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	You guys are ALL so wonderful! Not only have you made me feel better, but you have also given me some great and very useful information. I appreciate this more than you guys know! I'm very grateful that I found this site! Thanks to all of you, I've made some wonderful new friends! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 20th, 2009, 07:48 PM	#34
DEXSPEED 2012 is here,let's ride!! Name: dex Location: visalia,ca. Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009R,'12 suzuki +500 Posts: 354	don't forget to use cold compress for the bruises. i just got my bike shimmed 100% improvement throttle control wise you should do it

October 20th, 2009, 08:01 PM	#35
vet415 ninjette.org member Name: Gene Location: McDonough, Ga Join Date: Aug 2009 Motorcycle(s): '08 YZ250, '06 Katana 600, 06 Ninja 250, '06 YZ250 Posts: 61	Hey, how's the knee doing? Ibuprofen can be your best friend, lol. Take care

October 23rd, 2009, 11:32 AM	#36
Majik ninjette.org member Name: Connie Location: Eastern Shore, Alabama Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250R RED! Posts: 89	Thanks everyone. I'm doing alot better. My knee looks worse than it actually is. I haven't been able to ride since the drop because I'm waiting for a friend (who knows what they're doing) to come fix the gear shift and to shim the carbs for me. I am wondering why I can't key lock the bike. Does anyone know why this may be? There were no problems with that before the drop! I can use the key to turn the bike on and off but I can't lock the handlebars now. Once again...EVERYBODY...thanks SO MUCH for your concern, help, advice and wonderful videos. You all are the bomb!!! __________________________________________________ Connie

October 23rd, 2009, 11:46 AM	#37
mikedabike64 ninjette.org guru Name: mike Location: jackson, nj Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 ninja 250 Posts: 271	I get that, I usually follow my gut, if your feeling weak, take a rain check on the ride... Sometimes I skip an opportunity to ride If Iam not feeling 100% mentally or phyically. Sorry about the bike, hope your ok.