I am a relatively new, older (42) female, street rider (4 months) and am a confident rider on my Buell Blast. It was so much fun I thought I would give dirt riding a try. I recently purchased a '86 Yamaha RT175 (was a great deal) even though it was a little tall for me (5'4"). I took it to Metcalf Cycle Park and came out feeling very overwhelmed. Dropped the bike several times on rocky and/or deep dirt hills and had to have my husband pick the bike up. I am wondering if a bike that I can easily touch both feet to the ground would have prevented some of my spills. Would a smaller bike still be able to perform in the rocks, hills, etc.? Any comments at all are appreciated. I refuse to be defeated!!!
Best Bike To Buy
- Thread starter tashben
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firecracker22
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- Oct 23, 2000
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We're discussing this subject in a similar thread, entitled Help from the Ladies, I think. The balance of power and good suspension against ease of riding is up to you. As a street rider, you won't be starting completely from scratch. Maybe a KX100 if you like two stroke, or a TTR125 if you want something tamer?
bbbom
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- Aug 13, 1999
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Great attitude!! :cool:
The bigger the bike, the easier it handles the rocks and obstacles but, if you can't reach the ground to keep from tipping over easily then you tip over!
My son has this dilemma. At 9 YO, he's a bit big for his KX60 but still too short on his CR80E to handle the slow technical stuff. He's been riding this stuff since he started riding 4 years ago but it was a long learning process and I got one heck of a workout during that time.
The two scenarios over the same rocky rooted hillclimbing and descending trails:
KX60 he bounces off of everything and has to stop and get back on track quite often BUT, he rarely actually falls off the bike or tips over.
CR80E much smoother ride except when he gets off track, over they go.
My suggestion is to find the biggest bike (height wise) that you can still touch fairly easily. You don't need to touch flatfooted, I can't touch flatfooted on my CR but I can touch my toes, to the balls of my feet while sitting on the seat.
The Yamaha is probably pretty heavy compared to the newer bikes but, if it is what you have then you CAN learn to ride it. You may want to practice picking it up or keep the hubby around to help you.
I know when I first started riding 3 years ago, my biggest problem was getting my bike upright on my own (KLX300 then). I have pretty well mastered picking mine up from most any position. That does involve the occasional pick it up & flop it over to a better position move but that's what barkbusters and spare levers & perches are for.
The thread FC22 mentioned has some good ideas on the newer bikes.
http://dirtrider.net/forums3/showthread.php?threadid=27808
The bigger the bike, the easier it handles the rocks and obstacles but, if you can't reach the ground to keep from tipping over easily then you tip over!
My son has this dilemma. At 9 YO, he's a bit big for his KX60 but still too short on his CR80E to handle the slow technical stuff. He's been riding this stuff since he started riding 4 years ago but it was a long learning process and I got one heck of a workout during that time.
The two scenarios over the same rocky rooted hillclimbing and descending trails:
KX60 he bounces off of everything and has to stop and get back on track quite often BUT, he rarely actually falls off the bike or tips over.
CR80E much smoother ride except when he gets off track, over they go.
My suggestion is to find the biggest bike (height wise) that you can still touch fairly easily. You don't need to touch flatfooted, I can't touch flatfooted on my CR but I can touch my toes, to the balls of my feet while sitting on the seat.
The Yamaha is probably pretty heavy compared to the newer bikes but, if it is what you have then you CAN learn to ride it. You may want to practice picking it up or keep the hubby around to help you.
I know when I first started riding 3 years ago, my biggest problem was getting my bike upright on my own (KLX300 then). I have pretty well mastered picking mine up from most any position. That does involve the occasional pick it up & flop it over to a better position move but that's what barkbusters and spare levers & perches are for.
The thread FC22 mentioned has some good ideas on the newer bikes.
http://dirtrider.net/forums3/showthread.php?threadid=27808
Last edited:
prspctgirl
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- Sep 28, 2001
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I love your comments and I think that they are really helpful. I am a beginner myself and I have recently jumped on a CR250. I did drop the bike a few times myself (and I am 5'9"!!!)...anyhow, I could reach the ground and yet it was hard to hold the bike up when trying to kick start it. To make matters worse, I had a heck of a time just trying to kick start it in general. I think I was lucky to do it once myself and my male friend had to start it every other time! So is it just practice makes perfect? Any suggestions?:)
firecracker22
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- Oct 23, 2000
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Starting is just something you get better at with time. It has more to do with technique than strength. You have to kick firmly, all the way through, rather than just stabbing at it. When it's cold, I tip it over briefly with the gas on (until the gas just starts to dribble out the bottom) then it usually starts easier. Being jetted correctly will also make it start easier. Make sure you're not jacking the throttle as you kick (it's a natural reaction) by holding onto the throttle housing rather than the grip. Give it gas just as you finish the kick but don't open it all the way up.
Every bike has its preferred method. Good luck! Man, a CR 250 as a beginner bike? Right on!
Every bike has its preferred method. Good luck! Man, a CR 250 as a beginner bike? Right on!
prspctgirl
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- Sep 28, 2001
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Thanks so much for the advice. I will keep on trying!
bbbom
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- Aug 13, 1999
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Yep, it's mainly technique.
Make sure you aren't trying to start it with the kickstand down (if you have one). It makes it more likely to tip over if it is down and harder to get a good strong kick. We ride with our kids so we have kickstands on all the bikes, saves time when a little one needs help.
Also be sure that your foot is well centered on the kickstarter. Coming off a fourstroke, I was lazy about this part.
I balance the bike with my left foot down and right foot on the peg. Bring my right foot up onto the kickstarter, bring it to top dead center, push myself up in the air using my arms (hands on handlebars) with my right foot on the kickstarter, then drop my foot back & down with all my weight. Actually jumping on the kickstarter but catching myself, as I hit the bottom of the stroke, by putting my left foot firmly on the ground.
At least that's how I do it from memory. Watch how the 2stroke guys start theirs and try to mimic them.
If you want a real challenge, borrow an old CR450 or 480 with the nice left side kickstarter. Rode with two guys on one of each of those this weekend - now THAT takes serious technique!
Good luck and let us know how it goes.
Make sure you aren't trying to start it with the kickstand down (if you have one). It makes it more likely to tip over if it is down and harder to get a good strong kick. We ride with our kids so we have kickstands on all the bikes, saves time when a little one needs help.
Also be sure that your foot is well centered on the kickstarter. Coming off a fourstroke, I was lazy about this part.
I balance the bike with my left foot down and right foot on the peg. Bring my right foot up onto the kickstarter, bring it to top dead center, push myself up in the air using my arms (hands on handlebars) with my right foot on the kickstarter, then drop my foot back & down with all my weight. Actually jumping on the kickstarter but catching myself, as I hit the bottom of the stroke, by putting my left foot firmly on the ground.
At least that's how I do it from memory. Watch how the 2stroke guys start theirs and try to mimic them.
If you want a real challenge, borrow an old CR450 or 480 with the nice left side kickstarter. Rode with two guys on one of each of those this weekend - now THAT takes serious technique!
Good luck and let us know how it goes.
prspctgirl
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- Sep 28, 2001
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You ladies are awesome and I thank you for your responses...can't wait till I can try again!
- Thread starter
- #9
Thanks for the supportive responses. It's great to have this group to bounce problems/ideas off of. I'm planning on taking the next dirt-riding class in my area that is offered by Debbie Matthews. I hope this also give me a good basic understanding of good off-road riding habits. Hope I'll meet some female enthusiasts!
firecracker22
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- Oct 23, 2000
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I took a Debbie Matthews MX course and a private lesson in woods riding. My instructor is not only ex pro MX racer and ex woods racer, but a former downhill mountain bike racer as well. I learned sooo much, and made a friend. I would highly recommend taking as many as you can.
How much money do you want to spend on a bike? You know, one of the coolest bikes I’ve ever ridden (besides my KTM of course) was a RM 125 with a 167 bore/stroker kit. It was very powerful but also very smooth and tractable and more linear than a stock 125. It was set up as a woods bike with big tank etc. and has a flywheel weight too, but it wasn’t installed on it then. Maybe if you could find a clean used 125 and put in the kit? You’d have about as much into it as you would buying a new one. It’s available from RPM, Rick Peterson Motorsports, but Eric Gorr at Forward Motion might do something similar. It’s the longer stroke, not the big bore, that smooths it out. Another good one is of course the BBR 150 or 200 with four stroke motor, aluminum frame and CR suspension but those aren’t cheap either. I work for BBR and still can’t afford to buy one. Good thing I can borrow one!
How much money do you want to spend on a bike? You know, one of the coolest bikes I’ve ever ridden (besides my KTM of course) was a RM 125 with a 167 bore/stroker kit. It was very powerful but also very smooth and tractable and more linear than a stock 125. It was set up as a woods bike with big tank etc. and has a flywheel weight too, but it wasn’t installed on it then. Maybe if you could find a clean used 125 and put in the kit? You’d have about as much into it as you would buying a new one. It’s available from RPM, Rick Peterson Motorsports, but Eric Gorr at Forward Motion might do something similar. It’s the longer stroke, not the big bore, that smooths it out. Another good one is of course the BBR 150 or 200 with four stroke motor, aluminum frame and CR suspension but those aren’t cheap either. I work for BBR and still can’t afford to buy one. Good thing I can borrow one!
prspctgirl
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- Sep 28, 2001
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If any of you come across any screamin used deals, can you let me know? I really want to get my own bike and cannot afford a new one (single mom syndrome)...also what does it generally run to take the lessons?
firecracker22
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- Oct 23, 2000
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I think the DM classes were +/- $100/day? CHeck it out at www.dmsports-wsmx.com
(warning slow page--lots of pictures)
(warning slow page--lots of pictures)
bbbom
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- Aug 13, 1999
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Screaming deals, I would think that as slow as things are now in the overall economy you could find something pretty easy.
I know the shops up here are saying they can't sell their bikes. Used ones especially are sitting untouched. Of course we are just counting the days for the white stuff to hit too and that always makes bike prices slide downhill (baaad pun).
What bikes are you looking for prspctgirl?
I know the shops up here are saying they can't sell their bikes. Used ones especially are sitting untouched. Of course we are just counting the days for the white stuff to hit too and that always makes bike prices slide downhill (baaad pun).
What bikes are you looking for prspctgirl?
prspctgirl
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- Sep 28, 2001
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I need to get my butt out there and look while I can. I don't know exactly what I am looking for. I am a bit of a dummy when it comes to the models. I was fine with the CR 250...actually. I loved it. I would probably grab almost anything for my first one though.
firecracker22
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- Oct 23, 2000
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If you’re not afraid of a 250, then go for it. A 125 would be lighter and more maneuverable for you though. The power would be zippier, but you would develop good clutch skills. Do you prefer trails, mx or both?
- Thread starter
- #16
prspctgirl:
Good luck trying to find a "cheap" used bike. I looked for quite a while and finally a friend sold his 86 YA RT175 to me for $600. My husband spent last week changing the seals on the front forks and just generally cleaning it up.
firecracker22
Thanks for the info on the classes; I'm looking forward to taking at least one. I am more concerned about find a bike that "fits" me rather than a price tag. But I don't want to purchase a new or newer model until I've practiced a bit more on my Yamaha. I just read an article about the BBR kit -- sounds great, but expense. You are lucky you can borrow a bike!
I'll be interested in getting more info @ the bike show this weekend . . . more later. Enjoy the RIDE!
Good luck trying to find a "cheap" used bike. I looked for quite a while and finally a friend sold his 86 YA RT175 to me for $600. My husband spent last week changing the seals on the front forks and just generally cleaning it up.
firecracker22
Thanks for the info on the classes; I'm looking forward to taking at least one. I am more concerned about find a bike that "fits" me rather than a price tag. But I don't want to purchase a new or newer model until I've practiced a bit more on my Yamaha. I just read an article about the BBR kit -- sounds great, but expense. You are lucky you can borrow a bike!
I'll be interested in getting more info @ the bike show this weekend . . . more later. Enjoy the RIDE!
bbbom
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- Aug 13, 1999
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Guess I should add a disclaimer there on the easy to find screaming deals - they still aren't cheap.
I think the least I have been able to pick up any bike for was my daughter's 96 LEM LX2 (50cc) and that was $750. This sweet looking little bike is E$pen$ive to maintain and it needs constant maintenance!
As for the bigger bikes from XR100 on up, you are lucky to find anything decent and less than 10 years old for under $600 - $700. In that price range, you will develop some decent mechanical skills too. But, that is a good thing IMO! You can do most any repairs with a little help - this site provides lots of that and the manuals are usually pretty helpful too.
This is NOT a low cost sport by any stretch of the imagination, especially when you get the whole family into it. :scream: Then you have to add all the gear, maintenance and repairs (at least I do!). Then if you go totally insane and get everyone their own bike, snowmobile, couple jetskis, pickup truck to haul the toys and the camper to stay in while out & about. Then you have to build a shop to work on the toys and another one to store the off season toys................Wow, I must have lost my sanity somewhere down the road or trail I guess!
Be careful what you pick for a hobby!:think
I wouldn't trade the fun my family and I have for anything in the world - even all the $$$$ I've spent on it!:cool:
I think the least I have been able to pick up any bike for was my daughter's 96 LEM LX2 (50cc) and that was $750. This sweet looking little bike is E$pen$ive to maintain and it needs constant maintenance!
As for the bigger bikes from XR100 on up, you are lucky to find anything decent and less than 10 years old for under $600 - $700. In that price range, you will develop some decent mechanical skills too. But, that is a good thing IMO! You can do most any repairs with a little help - this site provides lots of that and the manuals are usually pretty helpful too.
This is NOT a low cost sport by any stretch of the imagination, especially when you get the whole family into it. :scream: Then you have to add all the gear, maintenance and repairs (at least I do!). Then if you go totally insane and get everyone their own bike, snowmobile, couple jetskis, pickup truck to haul the toys and the camper to stay in while out & about. Then you have to build a shop to work on the toys and another one to store the off season toys................Wow, I must have lost my sanity somewhere down the road or trail I guess!
Be careful what you pick for a hobby!:think
I wouldn't trade the fun my family and I have for anything in the world - even all the $$$$ I've spent on it!:cool:
Tashben- Sorry I didn't see your post earlier because I'd like to add how wonderful it is that you are riding dirt after being a street rider. Why? Because from what I've observed, dirt riding makes you such a better street rider! Ya just don't get as freaked out when the back tire skids a little and you know how to shift your weight and adjust your throttle to counter something like that. 'Makes all the difference in some situations. We need all the edge we can get when riding street because everything is out to get you there!
On the street note, I started on a Buell Blast too and thought it was a kick in the tight corners. That thing corners like a bad dog! 'Had some issues with it's power at altitude so I switched to a Ducati Monster. 'More power at altitude so better for me here in Colorado, but it sure doesn't corner like that Blast!
Good luck finding that perfect bike. I think it was LoriKTM that once told me "the next bike you buy doesn't have to be your last." I like that! It took some pressure off of my quest to find that perfect bike!
On the street note, I started on a Buell Blast too and thought it was a kick in the tight corners. That thing corners like a bad dog! 'Had some issues with it's power at altitude so I switched to a Ducati Monster. 'More power at altitude so better for me here in Colorado, but it sure doesn't corner like that Blast!
Good luck finding that perfect bike. I think it was LoriKTM that once told me "the next bike you buy doesn't have to be your last." I like that! It took some pressure off of my quest to find that perfect bike!
- Thread starter
- #19
Found a great dual-sport bike at the motorcycle show last weekend -- a Yamaha XT225. Very nice! As soon as I'm more confident with my off-road skill on my YA'86 RT175, I'll be looking for a XT. Hope to visit Hollister over the long holiday weekend.
CJ Rider - Thanks for the encouragement. The Blast is a great bike. I swapped out the exhaust for a Vance & Hines and it really sounds great. I haven't had any power problems as yet. Ironic you bought a Ducati Monster as I thought they were nice looking bikes and have heard they sound great too!
CJ Rider - Thanks for the encouragement. The Blast is a great bike. I swapped out the exhaust for a Vance & Hines and it really sounds great. I haven't had any power problems as yet. Ironic you bought a Ducati Monster as I thought they were nice looking bikes and have heard they sound great too!
Yamaholley
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- Jul 12, 2001
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I agree, first bikes should be something you are comfortable on..that way you are not starting at a deficit.
I started on a KX100, but really really wanted a 'big' bike. When I bought the YZ I couldn't touch the ground...it was tippy toe only on one side. For MX it was no problem, but in the woods it stunk. Not to mention that it's not the best bike for woods riding without some heavy mods anyway.
When I bought the KTM, I had the suspension lowered 2 inches. Then I bought the special seat foam, and that lowered it another inch.
I now have a full size bike that I can touch tip toe on both sides on, and my confidence level is so much higher too.
I started on a KX100, but really really wanted a 'big' bike. When I bought the YZ I couldn't touch the ground...it was tippy toe only on one side. For MX it was no problem, but in the woods it stunk. Not to mention that it's not the best bike for woods riding without some heavy mods anyway.
When I bought the KTM, I had the suspension lowered 2 inches. Then I bought the special seat foam, and that lowered it another inch.
I now have a full size bike that I can touch tip toe on both sides on, and my confidence level is so much higher too.
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