Am I doing Okay?

[KeltWolf]

Hi y'all, (Sorry for the long post...but I really need some tips)

I am a new (3 times on a bike) rider. My husband got me a KLX 300. I am 36 and have always wanted a bike, but as a younger person was told when the cousins and brother got theirs "you can't you are a girl".

Anyway, husband has been riding enduros for about 18 years. He got our son a bike and we finally got me one.

First time out I rode his KDX 200. Stalled it about 4 times before I realized you have to give it gas to get it to move....then it started moving and I was like "wow! This is great....oh yeah, pick up that foot".

So, I rode around these open fields and trails for about 2 - 3 hours. Did okay. No falls. Now I have the bug... :yeehaw:

So, David buys the KLX 300. It was shorter - I could touch the ground and stuff. But, it was a WHOLE lot harder to start....like I can't really do it if it stalls.

Anyway, this weekend we take it to Red River (texas) and I am riding it down in these sandy bottoms and having a really fun time. Actually shifted out of first gear (woohoo). It overbalanced once when I was stopped and took me down. (Right in the stickers of course) :scream: Picked it up (and picked the stickers out) and rode some more....felt pretty happy- standing up over the bumps....no problems. :) Sore in the morning in the quads though!

We rode again yesterday (Sunday) and once again I over balanced in the mud (at a complete stop) and spent the day with a clay filled seat....(mine not the bikes) Rode over a bunch of sandy whoops, ruts and water holes and seemed pretty content with myself. ;)

When we got back to camp...some of the guys (in the area around our truck and trailer) were like "that bike is just TOO big for you". I am confused. I like my husbands KDX 200 a little more (if he dropped the height just a bit) I can move it around, put it up on the trailer etc. where the KLX is really heavy and hard to even pick up. He is willing to drop his and let me have it and trade the KLX for a different bike....I just want to ride.

My questions: :worship:

Am I gonna get better? Will I eventually get faster? Will I learn to corner tighter? Am I doing okay?? Would the KDX 200 be better for me? I want ot race enduros next year... please advise. Thanks ladies! ~Kim

 

[bbbom]

Congratulations on your new ride!!!

As far as how you are doing - sounds like you are doing great as long as you are having fun then you are doing it right! I used to tip over more than crash myself, a tip over is a slow motion thing, a crash is well, a crash!!

You will get better, you will get faster, you can corner tighter by practicing and don't be afraid to let the bike lean into the corner - Click here for some great tips.

As far as which bike is better for you, only YOU can decide that one! I love it when people decide what bike is right for someone they don't even know!! I started out on a KLX300 3 years ago and I heard the same thing from a lot of people but once I got the hang of riding the trails, that talk went away.

Of course then I tried out my boyfriend's CR500 and fell in love (I liked the bike too). ;) You should have heard his friends "she'll get hurt," "she'll get tired and get hurt," "that bike will turn you into a MAN," "there are easier bikes to ride," "you need a smaller bike""Oh MY GOD!!!!"........... I love my CR and I haven't listened to anyone for the past 38 years, why would I start now?

For me, the hardest part of learning how to ride was not a problem of the right bike, it was more of an issue of just learning how to handle any bike. It didn't matter what bike I started on, I would have had most of the same problems on any bike at the beginning.

The KLX300 is a VERY forgiving bike for a beginner. The front end tends to be heavy but they will tractor and lug very well which is how most beginners tend to ride. The KDX will be less forgiving on the same terrain, clutch control will be more important.

I rode my first season or so on my KLX, just to learn how to ride the trails. Once I felt comfortable with the more technical trails, I decided that the KLX was not working for my riding style so I started test riding any bike I could on different group rides. The CR was NOT something I had even considered but, after one test ride and a couple normal rides on my boyfriend's CR I was searching for one for me.

One helpful hint on the KLX - make sure you are getting the kickstarted all the way to TDC by pushing down on the kickstarter then bring it all the way back up and then down until you feel resistance then KICK a full stroke. Sometimes it takes a couple times of letting the kickstarter come up then pushing down slightly, back up, push down slightly before you hit the resistance. If the resistance isn't there then you are wasting your kick.

If it's hot, or the bike has been dropped or loaded up in any way give it FULL throttle and kick it over until it actually fires up. If it dies then go back to no throttle and it should start. They can be a lot of work to start when hot but with practice you should be able to get it going most times. Don't kill yourself kicking if there is help available though - that just seems to drain you and cause you to make a mistake and stall again (at least for me it does unless I am really mad)!

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

 

[gospeedracer]

Sounds like you are doing just fine to me. bbbom couldn't be more right, as long as you're having fun then your are doing something right. I can't tell you how many times I tipped over and crashed when I started riding! It's all part of the learning process. If you ask me, you are ahead of the game if you aren't letting it discourage you.
Ditto on bbbom's advice about the bike as well. How do YOU feel about the bike? If you feel like it's too big and bulky for you then you might want to test ride other bikes if you have the opportunity. Otherwise I say just keep plugging along on the KLX. Taking advice on riding tips from more experienced riders is one thing but you are the best judge of what feels comfortable for you.
The skills you mentioned will come with time and practice.

 

[mx547]

Originally posted by KeltWolf
I am 36 and have always wanted a bike, but as a younger person was told when the cousins and brother got theirs "you can't you are a girl".

that's a shame. my eleven year old daughter has been riding/racing since age six. my five year old daughter has a bike too.

hang in there. you will soon be addicted.

 

[IrishEKU]

Not only what the ladies have said, but I have to point out the "What You Feel Comfortable With" part here, you need to find what you like and enjoy. Myself I am a KDX fan, and will own a 220R in the future because that is the riding I like. I will also purchase a 4-stroker in the MX class because I just want one! Just remember, it's all about the rider and what they want. I think Lance Armstrong was the one that first stated that comment.

Phillip

 

[dirty~d~]

If the KLX is too heavy for you and you like the KDX, then I think you've made the decision yourself. ;) Riding slow is where everyone starts. Tipping over just happens. Panic reving, stalling... yep them too. You will get faster and you will be more comfortable. It's all about seat time. I'm still learning and at times I wonder if I'm ever going to get it. Just don't get down on yourself and if anyone else tries to talk smack, tell them to p**s off. At least you're out there trying. :thumb: Good for you!! Keep up the positive attitude and you'll be racing in no time. Good luck.

 

[LoriKTM]

Hi Kim, and welcome!

I was told the same thing when I was younger--"you're too small (and a girl) to ride a bike". Phooey! Better late than never, I say.

As far as bikes go, well, there are easier bikes to learn on. I've seen grown men cry trying to start their KLX after a stall or tip over. My first off-road experience was on a dual-sport Yamaha XT350, and that was no treat to start or pick up. After riding that a few times, I knew I needed a smaller bike.
In actuality, the KDX and the KLX should be nearly the same in seat height. It could be that your husband's bike has some suspension modifications for his speed and height/weight that make it seem taller. No fear, the KDX can be shortened to accommodate just about anybody. (I got a KDX as my second bike, and had it lowered 1.5", since I'm only 5'3")

What matters is that you find a bike that YOU are comfortable on. If you are comfortable, then your confidence will increase, and you will learn faster and do better. The KDX is a forgiving bike to ride, and it may not have as much luggability as the KLX, but I think the easier starting and (much) lighter weight of the KDX are just as important.

For a better evaluation, ride the KDX in the same areas that you rode the KLX. Ride them back-to-back, if possible, and see what fits your style better. If you have other women riders in the area, look at what they are riding and see if you can get a quick test ride. You have lots of bike options, and you can always move on to a different bike later!

Good luck, but most of all, HAVE FUN!

 

[firecracker22]

Everybody has pretty much covered it--as far as bike selection and learning techniqes. The problem is there are 2 ways to go about it--the easy and the hard way. Start on a more aggressive bike, and you will be a more aggressive rider; but the learning curve is much steeper and you will be more frustrated more often. I wish I had gotten a KDX or something a little better than my first bike, an XR 200. But it served its purpose and I sent it down the road. The transition to the KTM was difficult--and amusing for bystanders, as long as they were out of the rock throwing range--but I made it and am a better rider now. (better being subjective here)

Practice as many good habits as you can now, like keeping your elbows up, using two fingers on clutch and brake, and standing on the balls of your feet rather than the instep. They are easier to learn now than to re-train yourself to do later. Don't become bogged down in details though.

Have fun and welcome to the sport!

 

[GETMETOCA]

Originally posted by KeltWolf
I am 36 and have always wanted a bike, but as a younger person was told when the cousins and brother got theirs "you can't you are a girl".

Holy Cow! Its my life revisited! ;)

I just started riding 9 months ago and I can't even remember what life was like before. Now I have two bikes :) I still have lots to learn, but I am out there trying and trying and having a total freaking blast at the same time, so that is the best advice I can give you too!!

I remember all the slow motion tip overs, I don't pull those too often anymore, but I did one out on the grass track at dirtweek and no one saw cuz I was out there all alone (I think? :think: ) so it doesn't count, right??!! :debil:

I will try lots of stuff I would never have tried a few months ago, so your learning curve as a newbie is going to be exponential. GO TRY STUFF!! Just make sure you have all your gear on and you'll be fine. Don't do anything you don't feel comfortable with, but try harder stuff as you progress, you'd be surprised what you can actually do.

Great to have you here, keep us posted!!!!

Natalie

 

[firecracker22]

My mom wouldn't let me get a bike when I was younger either even though she promised my brother one if he could get good grades. He never did so it wasn't a problem but still . . . she wouldn't let me take metal shop either. Now, all she asks me is whether I am going to sell the bike soon. :think: Whatever.

 

[KimYZ250f]

Hey Kim,

Keep plugging at it. I agree with what all the other ladies (and some guys) are saying. If you are having fun, keep at it. My mom wouldn't let me get a dirt bike when I was younger either. My first dirt bike was a Yamaha TTR125L. I quickly outgrew the bike and now I'm on a YZ250F (which maybe a little big for me). Point is, keep riding and you'll steadily get better. Do what makes YOU feel comfortable.

Keep roostin' :aj:

Kim

 

[Fe_princess]

Hi Kim and welcome aboard.
I am curious. How tall/big are you.
I rode a KLX 300 last year and found it quite cumbersome(heavy and not a lot of power), and I'm 5'7" 135 lbs. Many women ride the KDX 220 and find it perfect for them.
Riding a bike that you feel comfortable on and can actually pick up will give you room to concentrate on riding.
You can rest assured that the more you ride, the better you will ride.
Good luck and keep us informed.
FE

 

[Girlrider]

Will you get better? Oh YEA! Make sure you smile a lot and have fun. Crashing is just part of the game. Some days I race and never crash, other days I crash all the time but I still have fun. I had a KLX and it can be a bear to start! Nice bike otherwise. Not a good bike for one that crashes a lot because that is when it is hardest to start. Keep riding. In a year you will be a lot better.

 

[dirty~d~]

Originally posted by firecracker22
My mom wouldn't let me get a bike when I was younger either even though she promised my brother one if he could get good grades. He never did so it wasn't a problem but still . . . she wouldn't let me take metal shop either. Now, all she asks me is whether I am going to sell the bike soon. :think: Whatever.

My mother gave up trying to keep me from playing with the boys YEARS ago. ;) When she saw me body check a guy twice my size during an ice hockey game, she figured I could handle myself ok. :) The bikes came as no surprise to her. Now my GRANDmother, on the other hand... I don't tell her a lot of things. I value my life. :eek:

 

[KeltWolf]

Hey y'all,

Boy! Thanks for the response. You are all great! Everyone has really helped. David (husband) lowered his KDX 200 for me last night and I tried it out inthe yard. It feels a lot more comfy than the KLX 300. I can move it, pick it up and - yeah... start it. (woohoo)

On the flip side, the KLX did provide some really great colorful patches on the shins and back of thigh from my pathetic attempts at kickstarting it....oh well - it is not really normal for me to have NO bruises. :confused:

I am looking forward to this weekend - we are going out to play some more up at Red River. I am hoping to learn enough to race enduros in the future - maybe in a year...(I think my horse is gonna feel neglected for a while)

I am curious. How tall/big are you.

I am 5'8". 180lbs. :eek: I power lifted for 3 years so, the boot thing was NOT fun as my "event" was Squats and Deadlift. (Mom was not for that one either) I am thankful for the weightlifting history though because this is pretty physical.

When she saw me body check a guy twice my size during an ice hockey game, she figured I could handle myself ok.

Way to go!!!! There are many things I do not share with either Mom or my Granny.....( the skydiving event is one I keep REALLY close to my chest)

Anyway, I just LOVE being on 2 wheels...such a feeling of freedom! Big grins? Yeah - even when I was picking the stickers out.....I'll let y'all know how the KDX goes after this weekend! :thumb:

 

[dirty~d~]

Originally posted by KeltWolf
I'll let y'all know how the KDX goes after this weekend! :thumb:

Atta girl!!! :thumb: :yeehaw:

 

[firecracker22]

Sounds like you were MADE for this sport! I'd love to read your progress reports but I have a feeling I will be jealous . . .

How was sky diving? I SO want to go.

D, if I could skate, I would love to play hockey . . . too bad I can't even stand on the things.

 

[jmics19067]

Am I gonna get better? Will I eventually get faster? Will I learn to corner tighter? Am I doing okay?? Would the KDX 200 be better for me? I want ot race enduros next year... please advise.

dont question it relish it !!!!! you never will feel as fast as you do right now :yeehaw: the wide eyed excitement you have is a wonderful thing most of us wish we could go back there again!!!!! Thats why a lot of us are learning how to/ going out to do double jumps, log crossings , hill climbing, creek crossings whatever. We are still looking for that rush we first got when we sat in an open field with a motor bike, palms sweaty,mouth dry and butterflys in the stomache.


who knows if you will get better I didnt But it doesnt matter to me since it is in the name of my fun and to heck with what anybody else thinks ;)

 

[dirty~d~]

Originally posted by firecracker22
D, if I could skate, I would love to play hockey . . . too bad I can't even stand on the things.

If I can teach my best friend (she trips over the white stripes in the crosswalk) to skate in one evening, I'm pretty sure I could do the same for you.

 

[GETMETOCA]

ICE HOCKEY!!! :flame:

For my 37th birthday, my friend's 14 year old son took me to the rink that he competes at in an attempt to teach me how to "ice hockey" - LOL! I used to be H-E-DOUBLE HOCKEY STICKS on skates when I was his age, but let me tell you how age has a way of changing things!! At the rink, I figured I can handle the ice the way I used to and immediately come to an understanding that the hand rail IS MY FRIEND!

The 14 year old supports my left elbow (as if he's walking a granny across a busy intersection) as I cling to the hand rail with my right hand. We do this for two very slow laps around the rink. I then get into the "groove" with my skating technique and actually let go of the railing for the third lap. I figure I'm ready to take on the sticks and the puck, then WHAM!! I went down on one knee so hard I saw stars and the 14 year old has to help me up. I'm in significant pain by now and tell the 14 year old I'm going to "take a little break, okay?"

I sit out on the cold bleachers with the moms and dads and wish I had a hot toddy and some Tylenol. The 14 year old comes over after a while and wants me to try the rink again, so I do, but this time its a rail-clenching extravaganza.

I think I might venture back on the ice as long as I have all my dirtbike gear on. I might look funny, but I know I'd spare myself some pain!! :thumb:

 

[Hucker]

Hey GETMETOCA, if they have ice down at DW'03, I'll bring my skates. :) Free lessons to all. I think I was on skates before I could walk. 21 years and counting, isn't that sad? To bad my dad didn't put me on a bike that soon. Oh yeah, thanks for the B-day wishes :)

 

[linusb]

Just like the others have said, you are doing great! Having a bike that you like is really important. If you like the KDX best, stick with it, especially since your hubby has volunteered to give it up.

Don't worry about falling. It happens to me all the time. Somebody asked me the other day if I was afraid of falling when I ride my dirt bike. Heck No, I replied. When I first started in the spring riding in very sandy trails, I was falling about 10-20 times during a full day of riding....riding pretty dang slow at that. All of those falls made me realize that falling isn't a big deal. It happens. They make ride reports that much more exciting too. :aj:

 

[dirty~d~]

Ok all of this hockey talk has left me no choice... I'm hitting the ice Friday night... full gear, full contact. :p

 

[gospeedracer]

Natalie, yer killin' me! LOL! :)
I'm another one of those people who "trip over the white strips in the crosswalk" :confused:

 

[kmccune]

Don't listen to the "THAT BIKE IS TOO BIG FOR YOU" crowd, if your comfy on it then it is fine. As for the starting ... well that is why I took a break from 4 strokes. ( It seems as though the new ones are getting beter though :) )

It sounds like you are doing great! Riding is just fun..... so don't worry! :thumb:

Kevin