It’s kind of weird looking back. I never had any real interest in motorcycles growing up. My only real tie to motorcycles was through my dad. He rode a motorcycle throughout college for its economic value but eventually sold it because winters in Pennsylvania were not conducive to riding a motorcycle, nor safe for that matter. It was probably when I saw the Yamaha VMax Cruiser, pictured on the left, that I really developed the drive to ride. Its design is beautiful and elegant, and I knew as soon as I saw it that I wanted it one day. Once I decided to ride, it was a matter of learning. I knew I needed to take a class, or perhaps a series of classes, to learn to ride. My first step was to take a course that taught me the basics of riding, including what to wear, how to operate the bike, and the safety precautions I needed to understand and utilize. Once I felt comfortable with the basics and general riding, I got my license. I eventually bought a “naked” bike, also known as a standard. I did a lot of research before buying it. Based on my research, I found that a naked bike is best for beginners because they’re: Easier to learn to ride. Maneuvering a standard bike involves less skill than other motorcycles. Generally minimalistic. There are fewer things to damage if the bike falls. Generally less expensive. I also bought all of the protective gear I’d need, i.e. a DOT approved helmet and a riding jacket; I learned in my safety course that I needed to always wear pants, full coverage shoes, and gloves that would protect me if I fell. Once I started riding, I took it slow at first; I didn’t jump on a highway immediately or any other fast paced environments. After my safety course, I really realized how dangerous motorcycles could be; they don’t have the external protection passenger vehicles do and, many times, other motorists don’t see us. The Motorist to Motorcyclist Transformation There was little resistance when I began riding; as I said, my father rode, so my family was generally okay with the idea from a non-safety aspect. In terms of safety, though, they were a bit hesitant when I first told them I wanted to be a motorcyclist. And when I first began riding, I understood why. Learning something new is always challenging, but riding a motorcycle around others as a beginner was certainly eye opening. It’s not that I was ever in immediate danger; it was just the feeling of vulnerability. I didn’t feel experienced...
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