[Ducati] RE: advice for a new (old) rider?

[fhecker at earthlink.net]

greetings earthlings,

    I would like to offer my advice to you as someone who has ridden over 125,000 miles in lots of different weather.  Get some training to enlarge your information base and skills set.  You learn in proportion to your desire to get better as a rider.  Wear earplugs and save what hearing you have left.  Riding with 'plugs makes you far less tired at the end of the day or ride.  Carry fuses for your motorcycle; several of each size may allow you to reach a better place.  Check the fasteners on your bike on a regular basis.  Preventative maintenance is your best chance to find a problem before it gets you stranded far from home.  I lost a foot peg rubber, but got lucky and found it on the road a mile back, no screws though.  Carry some basic tools for your motorcycle and spare light bulbs.  Don't eat fatty foods for meals unless you want to get drowsy.  Get gloves that are waterproof and still allow you to feel the grips and levers.   Rain gear is a personal choice, but you can't wear it if you don't have it.  An electric vest will become your best friend and save your life, more than likely.  Wear the best protective gear you can afford.  One can not predict what will come at you or when.  Look ahead, think ahead.  
    Thanks for reading my opinion.

ciao,
Fred Hecker
'96 900 SS SP     B52    20k miles

fhecker at earthlink.net
EarthLink Revolves Around You.