Posted by Skeeter on March 31, 2000 at 02:43:02:
In Reply to: Graduation to Intermediate Riding posted by Linnette on March 30, 2000 at 19:57:13:
Hi Linnette--
As for safety courses, I doubt there's any such thing as too many. If you're inclined to take one, do it! One of my Harley rider buddies (a retired motorcycle cop with probably several hundred thousand miles in the sadddle) took a MSF "experienced rider" course a couple of years ago, and said that even he learned a few good new tips. I should look into that myself.
About the clutch at stops, It is my understanding that bikes and cars are exact opposites. On a car, the throw-out bearing is sealed and permamnently lubricated. As such, it is best to shift into neutral at lights. The car's transmission is also equipped with synchronizers that make going from neutral back into gear a smooth proposition.
Bikes, on the other hand, have throw-out bearings that are lubricated with crankcase oil and can be held in indefinately (although your hand may disagree). There are, however, no synchros in a constant-mesh gearbox on a bike, so there is a bit (albeit very small) of wear each time a gear is changed.
My gut feeling is there is probably not too much to worry about either way, so just do whatever feels right for the moment.
Enjoy your savage, and ride safe.
--Skeeter