New Suzuki S50 ?

I just got a like new 2005 Boulevard S50 and I am having trouble learning how to ride it properly since I have never had a bike before and I need some help figuring out the shifting and the balance.

Suzuki Boulevard S50

Let me know some information that may help me.
:cool :cool I LOVE MY BIKE :major :major :major

 

Congrats DeweyBad Sweet Ride, been too many years since I strapped on a ride like that, but there will be others that can Help

 

I have been riding for years. Never rode a crotch rocket though. Currently run a Honda VTX 1300. I started riding early. First bike was a CZ 250. A dirt bike is good to learn on, the pavement is less forgiving than the dirt. but a tree is still a tree. Main thing to realize is that you are out there, nothing but you, the motor, and the street. Try to wear long sleeves and long pants, a leather jacket is nice if you buy the pavement, a full helmet with face protection, good closed toed shoes, and I like light palm gripped gloves with the fingers removed. You have to think that you are invisible to other motorists out there, that will save you some grief sooner or later. It is tempting to show off rolleyes, but keep your cool. Take it slow for a while, and keep in the neighborhood until you are comfortable with your riding skills. Keep an eye on your bike, do the routine maintenance, and check your tire pressure before you ride. Be extra careful on curves, dirt, stones, grated bridges, or in the rain. Try not to ride the clutch to often, and have fun. Freedom is what it's all about, can't think of a better way to let go of problems for a while. Life is Good, Ride On!
Bug
:major

 

Welcome to freedom...

I ride a Vulcan 900 and love it (thank goodness for CA weather) just waiting to get a new KLR or BMW enduro model(got dirt?).

As far as learning to not fall off and kill yourself there should be a riding school in your area (mandatory in CA)

They will start you off on the small 125cc or 250cc until you get the basics down (cornering,braking,shifting,stop and go)

Look in your area for riding clubs (sport riders,harley owners etc) they are a wealth of info and entertainment.


I am sure you have heard it b4 ---Two types of people ride--ones who will have a near fatal crash---and those that have. Cars have an extremely hard time seeing you(or mabye they just do not pay attention).



check here for other geeks rides....... http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=117620&highlight=motorcycle

And one final thought--- Always wear your leathers,helmet, gloves--they save lives (mine by a helmet)


I was not going for a ride today till I saw this thread---but 70f on the coast today --I'm outta here......bye

 

Sweet ride...looks remarkably like my son's Honda Shadow.

Same at Petaluma said...take some lessons. Once you have the skills and confidence of riding it you are going to have so much fun and enjoyment. Take time to get to know the bike, it's performance and become in tune with it so that you ride as one. You might want to do some exercises to build up your neck muscles

Enjoy!!

 

Always, remember this: "Cars ARE out to get you." and you will be a little safer.

 

Good comment Musky, but seriously, if a car driver's blinkers are blinking, don't assume that is what they are going to do. If they are not blinking, don't assume they are not going to turn either. It is crucial that you ride defensively as you don't have SIPS and another such Volvo-related paraphenalia around you.

Also, whenever you turn, use your "Lifesaver" check. This is a well-known, documented specific advanced riding technique, not just some arbitary, general observation...read more here http://www.motorcycle-training.f2s.com/tips.html and here http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/main.jhtml?xml=/motoring/2000/12/19/emrip19.xml. This means look over your shoulder behind you to the side you are turning just before you make that turn. This is a great one for catching people overtaking you when they should not be, despite the fact you may have used your blinkers. Hence why it is called the "Lifesaver". Especially important on the freeway when changing lanes.

 

For me, my "lifesaver check" was to be aware of what EVERYONE around me was doing, liable to do, and having a plan to get through what ever craziness might appear in front, beside, or from behind me.
I think Lev said the thing in different words.