Never "dis" your ride.

by Mio
(Milford, Ohio)

No matter how small a bike is, always respect it! I know this because I was goofing around on a little 50cc that was like a mini bike to me since I ride an 805cc Boulevard. Needless to say, the little booger was the one that gave me a good spill and a bone spur on my knee that lasted for months! Lesson learned!

I also suggest not riding with a group your first year out, and if you do, make sure you ride with at least two other people who know you're a beginner and are willing to "take you under their wing" so to speak. I've been riding for many years, and was A.R.C. for the group I was in. It made me nervous, so I can imagine a newbie. Most people say to keep the new riders up front, when riding in a pack, but I really don't feel that is the safest thing. I think they should ride in the back with those two friends I mentioned. My reasoning behind this is, a lot of rides I've been in, they expect the riders in the front to block intersections and if you don't know how, an intersection can be missed and an accident could occur. Also, if an emergency stopping situation should arise, if you're in the rear, you leave yourself plenty of room and time to stop.
Again, everyone has their own take on this, but, it's just my 2 cents.

Finally, make sure you check your air pressure at least once a week. You do this when the bike tire is cold. The correct pressure will be written either on the tire and/or on the frame near the rear tire. At least that's where mine is. And of course, always do a pre-ride check to make sure fluid levels are level, and nothing is leaking or worn.

Above all else, KEEP THE SHINY SIDE UP!