Alzheimer's Test:

[rbond]

One of the 'hardest' parts of learning to drive a manual transmission vehicle, is taking off from a stop. Be prepared for many an engine kill or even a small wheelie or two.... Even today, after riding for about 38 years, the occasional stall happens and is still a little embarrassing! Ja-moo is so very right!!

[jkevinlilly]

ja-moo is right. I started learning in "75" and haven't stopped yet.

Kevin

[Joiseygirl]

I'm wondering if maybe I should learn to drive a stick first, to get the feel of changing gears. The only problem is, I don't know anyone who has one.

[jkevinlilly]

I would just start with a bike. How would learning to clutch with your left foot, brake with your left foot, apply gas with your right foot, and shift with your right hand help you to learn to clutch with your left hand, brake with your right foot and hand, apply gas with your right hand, and shift with your left foot???

Kevin

[Joiseygirl]

Automatic is just so much easier!

[rbond]

Automatic IS easier, but not as much fun and on a bike seems to 'disconnect' you from the full experience. I rode a Honda 400 auto one time, it was all right but lacked the 'control' aspect of riding, it is kind of hard to put into words.... With a manual transmission on a bike you have a little more control of how it performs at that exact time, road condition, the situation, etc. it just seems more RIGHT that you decide what gear you should be in and when. It is the total of all your actions and sensory input you get from a bike that makes them more fun, you more alive as you ride to anywhere. It seems to be THE vehicle for just going for the ride. Check out the catagory here for Deal's Gap and you will start to understand what I mean. Just being a passenger will give you a taste of riding, but driving a bike is better still. Even after riding bikes for 30 someting years, it still is a 'thrill' I would not miss for the world.....