Quote: Hey Brian... I resurrected this again for ya! I skimmed through the whole thread (again) and didn't see this one... don't for gawd sake ride like a maniac, newbie or oldie. (I tell myself this after every Kootenay RAT Rad. )
Great advice here.
As an old fart who learned to ride on a Yamaha 305 Sport in the 70s but hadn't ridden on the road for 30 years, riding the America is nearly starting over but for a few lessons remembered from the 305 and that piece of road gravel still under the skin of my left elbow reminding me to wear leather no matter how hot it is.
I read this thread start to finish, but saw no mention of the first safety item I added to the America - a headlight modulator that works on the daytime high beam. I use it in town traffic and flip it on along the road when I see a car with the potential to pull out in front of me, and I know from seeing a few other bikes on the road with one that it does get your attention.
If everyone used them, the effect would probably be diminished, but as a starting over newbie I think it helps me to ride safer while I am re-learning the other advice in this thread.
Phil in Northwest Arkansas
04 America, Black, Corbin seat, TORs, no AI, 34K
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