[akmott]

Just bought my first true Motorcycle - 2000 V Star Classic, and I thought I'd introduce myself.

-- Borrowed and drove a few 125cc dirtbikes in the woods as kid

-- Bought a 150cc scooter 4 years ago to commute to work and put about 2000 miles on that in 2+ years

-- 1.5 years ago, I bought a 250cc Qlink Legacy (auto tranny motorcycle) to commute more often when gas hit $4.00 / gallon and put about 2000 miles on that.

-- Took the MSF class and just bought a 2000 V Star Classic because I was getting tired of getting blown around on the roads on a bike that weighed 350 lbs. Plus I missed shifting. Needless to say my wife was not pleased, but after I took her for a spin we're on speaking terms again.

-- I've have crashed before, when a dog ran from behind some high hedges directly into my front wheel when riding home on a country road at night. I had the usuals -- a dislocated shoulder and some road rash, but I had on a full-face helmet, full finger gloves, a jacket and boots so the damage was minimized -- WEAR YOUR GEAR!

That's about it, so thanks for all of the invaluable information you guys have given me as I lurked around the site. I hope to eventually return the favor.