MonotoneCulprit
Active member
Took advantage of the randomly good weather here in the Northeast, and got my first ever ride in. Went with 30 miles of state forest and low traffic back roads so I could get familiar with the bike without too much pressure.
First things first, I'm undecided on whether I want to try to get used to the heel shifter or slice it off. Everything about it is awkward, and it feels like I really need to throw my heel down to ensure I change gears. Had several instances where I missed a shift entirely, and a few more where I was entirely unsure if I had changed gears until the clutch re-engaged. It is way harder to feel the lever through the thick boot heel than the toe. New rider so it's entirely possible this is just inexperience. Any tips and tricks appreciated.
Other than that the bike is awesome. Handled the forest roads like a champ, and was very comfortable on my windy back roads. Spent the trip taking random turns and just exploring and enjoying the environment. Ended up thoroughly lost two towns away, but had an absolute blast doing it. Quick lunch, and then I'll be straight back out there. Glamour shot below.
First things first, I'm undecided on whether I want to try to get used to the heel shifter or slice it off. Everything about it is awkward, and it feels like I really need to throw my heel down to ensure I change gears. Had several instances where I missed a shift entirely, and a few more where I was entirely unsure if I had changed gears until the clutch re-engaged. It is way harder to feel the lever through the thick boot heel than the toe. New rider so it's entirely possible this is just inexperience. Any tips and tricks appreciated.
Other than that the bike is awesome. Handled the forest roads like a champ, and was very comfortable on my windy back roads. Spent the trip taking random turns and just exploring and enjoying the environment. Ended up thoroughly lost two towns away, but had an absolute blast doing it. Quick lunch, and then I'll be straight back out there. Glamour shot below.