Newbie: Adventure or Death Wish?

Same boat, but only about 17 years between the last time I rode.  I got back on a Yamaha V-Star Classic (650cc's).  I have had my fun on it and got back in the swing of things and am looking to upgrade now.  I am glad a went with a smaller displacement bike to get back in the saddle...  

HI; I have done the same as you. I have been riding on and off for 40years.  I bought a C50T in 05. It took me about 4-6months to get back in the saddle. I think you have choosen a good bike to learn on. Before you get on the road you should get in a big parking lot. This will let you practice turns and stops at low speeds. Learn how to use the brakes. Rely on the front for 90% of your stopping. Practice stopping quickly so if you ever need to it won't be a learning experience in a panic situation. Try to find someone to ride with to help you out with with some does and dont's.Good luck be safe. RIDE RIDE RIDE...  

So good to hear from ya'll (this IS North Carolina, ya know), and that you're enjoying the machines and the people who bike. Very good point about balance that one of you made, too. Where that counts so much is at stops and tight, slow turns. I am getting there, but envy those experienced riders who put their left foot down just at the right time--and with style. From what I learned, that smoothness is something we never stop practicing. I believe it. Also, I'm going to glue a sponge to the front of my wife's helmet so the pain isn't so great when her head crashes into mine. :>

My son and son-in-law are coming to spend the week of July 4th with us, and they are renting a V-Rod and Road King for the 4th. I'm thinking of taking them over to the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains in western NC. It's a great ride, and the bikes aren't due back until the morning of the 5th.

Take care and ride safely.  

Tano: Scruffy's right--good choice in bikes. You'll have fun on it. Also, you may want to look into attending the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Riding Skills course. Good refresher if you've been away from biking for a couple of years. Here in the Charlotte area the costs range from $170 plus. I went to a Community College program for the $170, Friday evening from 6-9 PM, and 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM on Saturday and Sunday. One of the smartest investments I made.

Take care and ride safely.  

Count me in as well, after 25 years I finally went out an purchased my old dream bike, 83 V65 Magna.  First ride took me a 100 miles bringing her home and boy what a ride..Heaven.  Now I'm just making some adjustments to her, lose the windshield, and bags, put on new mirrors, crash bar and highway pegs, tune her up and I'll be ready... Come on Sunshine.  Ride well all.  

It's funny sometimes. I just noticed on the original thread that Rogers Ar. was mentioned. While I live in Mass, I bought my last bike thru Pig Trail HD.
A little more bumpy than I would have liked, but, they stepped up and got everything done.  

29 years for me since I owned a bike (Honda 350 scrambler). Got the usual advice "Almost lost my foot" and "A friend died" and "You're a bad driver" that type of stuff. Bought a V-Star 1100 Silverado and ignored all the nay-sayers. After 26 years got layed off in October at age 50 and had a surprise come my way in the form of a paid up life policy. The amount: $8700, which bought the 1100 AND had some change left over. Every time I ride anywhere I find myself letting out a "Woo-Hoo!" Get some pretty strange looks, I tell ya'........anyway, WOO-HOO!!!!  

HI;I had a 350 scrambler also way back in 69.  I had fun with it. GOOD thing that you did not listen. I had my share of YOU'L get killed!!! . I bought one  and  have been having FUN every day sence. Keep on rideing and having a WOO-HOO!!!! day... scruffy