Das and the new bike!!

scotweiler · Two Stroke Sniffer Joined: 16 Jul 2007 Karma :

Hello to all,

I've just finished day one on my 3 day DAS and was on such a high i popped into my local bike shop and bought a k3 gixer . Not the best of ideas but always wanted one.

I'm really having trouble with u-turns, no problem on a dt125 or a RG250 but struggle on the er-5. i can only imagine it's because i'm worried about dropping it as it's not mine or a friends.

Has anyone got any words of wisdom???

Cheers in advance

DaveW · Renault 5 Driver Joined: 19 Sep 2006 Karma :

One very good rule is DON'T LOOK DOWN!! I know it seems impossible at first but look up and ahead to where you are going, this also applies when taking slow corners/junctions.

Try sticking a big sharp nail under your chin - that will stop you from looking down - only joking.

I remember from my DAS in November as soon as I looked down or at the kerb I went wide.

Just tell your instructor and ask him to let you practice every so often on the lesson.

Use some revs (not lots) slip the clutch or ride it at the biting point and trail the back brake so if you do twitch the clutch it doesn't jump forward and knock you off balance. Try not to worry and after you've passed your test, forget about it and do a 3 point turn, more so if you have a sports bike like my R6!! I did my test in the rain. Actually if you have your own helmet, get a foggy coz if it does rain your visor won't steam up and its one thing less to hinder you, esp. if it rains.

If its a school bike don't worry about dropping it, you'll find most have or will be in the future.
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Yamaha R6 '05 model, upside down forks, radial brakes, Blue flame can, dubble bubble and clear turn signals - as they say in America

Louise · World Chat Champion Joined: 22 May 2006 Karma :

I was told to look 3/4 to the left, and up - not as far as the sky, but to midway up a lamp post. Worked at treat.

I used to look down, at that point I had less rev and never made the U turn.

map · Mr Calendar Joined: 14 Jun 2004 Karma :

scotweiler · Two Stroke Sniffer Joined: 16 Jul 2007 Karma :

Cheers for all the replies.

I've found a way that works for me. as soon as i'm balanced i put my chin on my left shoulder. don't take it off til i'm all the way round and works everytime!!

dropped the bike though, not mine so not really that bothered.

I'll let you know how i get on with the test on friday.

scotweiler · Two Stroke Sniffer Joined: 16 Jul 2007 Karma :

Sorry, that was right shoulder!!!

Been long day

tristan · Crazy Courier Joined: 03 May 2007 Karma :

scotweiler · Two Stroke Sniffer Joined: 16 Jul 2007 Karma :

It was lashing it down, but got through.

3 faults, all on the duel carridgeway as i couldn't see a bloody thing with all the spray and rain!!

All i ned now is to get comfortable with the gixer, went ut for a couple pf hours yesterday and my back is stiff today.

Caggers · Trackday Trickster Joined: 18 Jul 2007 Karma :