I passengered for 8 years, before I felt the desire to ride my own motorcycle.

After some research, I found out that the MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) sponsors safety training courses around the world. Newbie's to motorcycling can "get their feet wet", AND they can use the passing of the course to avoid taking the California DMV's on-road test.  I finally took a class (that provided Bikes to use) and got my Motorcycle (M1) endorsement.  The classes were run by TWST in Newark, CA, where I learned a tremendous amount. TWST also offers an Experienced Riders Course for those folks with at least 3,000 miles riding experience. (I highly recommend that course, TOO!)

In June 1998, I finally bought my first bike, a Yamaha Virago 750, vintage 1991. In my first year and a half, I've logged over 20,000 miles. As of January, 2000, I purchased a 1998 Yamaha Virago 1100 Special (3,200 miles on the odometer). After 3,000 miles, I decided it was time to have my first accident! (YUCK!) I finally have pictures of the damage. Check out the "oops" page...pictures too.) But the thumb has healed....and so did the bike. After 30,000 more miles in a little less than 2 years, I found a way to total a bike with only minor injuries to the rider!  UGH. (I'm working on the oops2 page now.)

So in December 2001, I purchased a 1996 Virago 1100 with 11,560 miles on it. (Are you seeing a pattern here??) I've already added 56,000+ miles in less than 4 years....

During this time, I've met two different groups of Gals who ride, one called "Women in the Wind, Inc." and the other called "Women on Wheels". I'm active in both of these groups, as well as riding with a co-ed group. (Websites for the 2 groups listed above and links to their National organization pages follow.)

And yes, (in spite of the crashes) I love to ride. :^>

Check out the links below for more information:

Two Wheel Safety Training (TWST)

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)

Women in the Wind, Inc. -- Faultline Riders Chapter

Women in the Wind, Inc. -- National Site

Women on Wheels -- California Wind Dancers Chapter

Women on Wheels -- National Site

Yamaha Motorcycles

Link to pix of my 1996 - 1100 Virago

Link to pix of my 1998 - 1100 Virago Special (RIP)

Link to pix of my 1991 - 750 Virago

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