biting off more than I can chew, Honda Monkey edition
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- Опубліковано 30 чер 2022
- this week a learned how to drive my secondary transportation for the bus
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Always look forward, never down. In a turn look in the direction you're going, never down. Take a motorcycle course run by professionals. I'm offering this advice as a motorcycle rider for over 50 years.
#1 rule for riding...Always wear your helmet...Always wear eye protection. Some will argue about the helmet...some states mandate it...but I believe most do require eye protection. At least a pair of clear wrap around glasses. I strongly advocate wearing riding gear too...but some climates are miserable for it I know. I've known tons of riders that went down. Some had their gear on, some didn't.
I also recommend taking the rider training, there's usually 2 levels beginner and advanced. Both teach you excellent skills that can keep the rubber side down.
I have around 30 yrs of riding and hundreds of thousands of miles.
@@lisah.07 It's ok...the world isn't gonna end. The same one fall can happen from you tripping on the sidewalk...
# 1 rule for riding for me...slow down at every intersection
Riding my old 2-stroke convinced me to keep the #1 rule.
What's nice about having the little Monkey with you is, you're never stranded... If your rig breaks down for whatever reason you can just hop on your Monkey and go to the next town for whatever you need. It also allows you to park your rig and go explore for pretty cheap money in gas. Good selection, very reliable little bike. Good luck with it.
Welcome new rider! Clutch control is EVERYTHING in the life of motorcyclist. Master the clutch and rides will get smoother, loading easier, and smiles get bigger.
Ah, the joy on your face! That my virtual little sister is where the magic of life. Enjoy! That’s really why we are here, learn the lessons, reap the Joy!❤
You should wear long pants and a jacket, preferably leather, and NO flip flops! Road rash is no fun! Gotta protect your skin. Even a little wipe out can suck! Be safe and have fun!!
I strongly recommend looking up a MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course. I'm glad you're learning how to ride! It can be very fun but scary at times. Having the knowledge from the MSF course can greatly help and minimize some of those slow speed collisions (dropping the bike in parking lots,) as well as high speed ones. also its really a good idea to at least wear jeans it greatly lowers the chance of loosing skin if you go down, and as soon as you take one fly or bee to the neck at highway speed you'll never ride without safety glasses or a closed helmet again... ask me how I know... It hurts a lot. We have a bike in our build too and it's definitely a fun and efficient way to get around, but you have to take safety seriously- we want to see you and enjoy with you this sport/hobby for many years to come. Stay safe out there and keep the shiny side up
A girl with her own bus and own motorcycle?? You’re the coolest person ever
I agree 💯
I rode dirt bikes and motorcycles as a kid and had a blast until I took a turn on gravel too fast, skid out of control, and the motorcycle fell down on top of me. A piece of metal from the bike went into my leg. My recommendation is to not ride a motorcycle on gravel roads if you can avoid it. It's different from a dirt bike and if you skid the bike itself can hurt you up a lot more when it falls on you.
I hope you stay safe! You're literally living my dream. Bus and motorcycle has got to be the best combo to travel the country with.
So glad you joined the mini moto. I have a grom and just like you it put a smile on my face every time I ride it.
Emma, my best advice for right now : ride, ride, ride, until you get real good at it. Then work on getting better at it.
Take the attitude that you are invisible and nobody can see you, which is regretfully too damn close to the truth.
My last summer of riding before I got off the bike (law of averages) I rode naked except for the glasses, cutoffs, and sandals (custom made for the shift lever). I carried around a shirt for restaurants and early evening coolness.
So awesome!! We are thinking about a GROM! Oh and please get some good protective gear, eye pro and gloves with the helmet. Slides on the concrete suck… Enjoy that cool little bike!
I still consider myself a newish rider at 3 years now, but I always enjoy watching people getting into riding and seeing their enthusiasm and excitement light up as it brings back all the fond memories, and harsh realities, that I’ve experienced. Happy to see how much fun you’ve been having with your new Monkey. When you mentioned taking a detour on your bike to your brother’s place just so you can ride more I started to chuckle. You’ll catch yourself doing that far more often as you ride more. Finding any and every excuse to take your bike out for a ride like needing to buy some milk, or taking the long way home. Such a fun and exhilarating way to travel and explore new places and I always encourage everyone just to give it a try just once. One of my few regrets in life is only discovering this seemingly innate part of me at the age of 32. I feel like I need to make up for lost time! Enjoy the ride 😎✌️
Definitely sign up for an MSF course. One word of wisdom I can give you is always make sure your wheel is pointed straight ahead when you stop this will keep you upright all of the time. If you have your bars pointed in the direction of where you are turning you'll lose balance on the bike. This is very critical on heavier bikes. You'll eventually want something bigger like a TW200 or XT250 Yamaha to give you more presence on the road.
I would have to say this has been one of the most interesting journeys with you yet. You are a natural to the motorcycle. I will say taking the MSF course was very helpful for defensive driving, and has probably saved me several times. I will give you two very important bits of info that maybe someone has told you already. On a motorcycle, where you are looking, that is where you are going. Don't look at the ground while moving, especially under your bike. I thought that statement was garbage till I nearly wrecked my Katana. It is absolutely true, look ahead to your future as much as possible works with motorcycles and you life, who knew? Glad you are digging it. I had almost forgot about those little motorcycles.
It was great to see the look on your face (big smile) without even going that fast on the motorcycle. Great fun
Emma - congrats on getting into motorcycling! I can tell you from experience that the joy you experience while riding will never go away! I started riding dirt bikes when I was 12, and 50+ years later, whether it's street or dirt, I still love it. I taught my daughter to ride when she was 4 - and she is my favorite dirt riding buddy 30 years later! Now here comes the Dad in me - please wear good protection when you ride. Even if it is hot outside, you should always have at least one layer between you and the pavement - road rash is an awful thing. I agree with Jared below to also wear proper eye protection. If regular sunglasses are struck by something, shards can actually end up in your eye. Amazon has a 3 pack of polycarbonate lens goggles (smoke, clear, and yellow lenses) for less than $20 if that helps. Ok, now that I'm off my soap box - have fun! You will love it!
So true Steve! My motto is ... It's better to sweat than to bleed.
I've seen some nasty injuries to the most experiences riders caused by the drivers of cars pulling out in front of (not even colliding with) them, who lose it and hit the tar, while not wearing proper protective gear.
As a riding instructor, mainly for beginner riders, I often have learners referred to me AFTER they've had an accident, whereas even just one lesson would have helped them avoid the accident and damage to their bikes!
My 2005 Honda Metropolitan has 62,565 miles. 110 mpg. So much fun.
62k on a metro? Respect
I suggest buying some trials bike gloves with a knuckle protector (from a store to make sure they are a snug fit), cool in the heat and warm enough when it is turning cold. Also super grippy if it rains or if you have sweaty hands.
Welcome to the motorbike life! So fun! I have a Monkey also and I LOVE it!
Your bother is one brave soul !!! Congratulations Emma I wasn’t nervous because I knew you could do it. You rock!
I thought that when he let her ride his bike... I KNEW it as soon as I saw him on the back with Emma driving!
Should get a wider deck for the bike to set on. That would increase the ramp width. And you could ride or walk up it.So you aren't reaching over your head.
I am amazed at how supportive your family is in this adventure. You have a tremendous support group in them.
Your joy is deliciously infectious; I smile when you’re smiling. Thank you. And well done on the bike licence 👍
Hi Emma, I must say I’m impressed !! Listen you have gotten some good advice in the comments, please stick to what others who ride tell you on how or what to do. It will keep you safe. I’ve been riding since I was a 16, now I’m 50. Only rode Harley’s but have had a Honda or two. Now I ride a 2019 and 2005 Harley Fatboy. Those are my babies!! There’s nothing like the open road! Try to stay visible, buy a yellow or green vest like construction guys wear. It’s only for when your on your bike. So enjoy your ride…Biker. Bye for now. Let’s Ride !🙏🏽👍🏽💛🇨🇱.
Congratulations Emma!! You sent your mind on accomplishing a huge thing and you did it! So happy for you!
Your personnel growth in so many ways is commendable, there is nothing you can not accomplish. I love your videos they are the highlight of my week, please keep them coming.
You go girl with your bad self!!!! I’m so proud of you for learning to ride! You never miss amazing me. Strong work. Xoxo
Your smile while you're riding is amazing. You look so free. Seeing how happy you were after you passed the test made me smile. You're really gorgeous when you smile.
I love that your videos aren't necessarily chronological. It's better to tell a coherent story, than to have every tidbit in the right order. You point out the drawers you built in a previous video, and I'm like "I understood that reference!"
What a happy, gorgeous, positive and fun video. You'll be a pro at loading and unloading the bike in no time. Your adventure is only beginning, and I envy you more and more each week.
After watching all your videos and seeing what you have accomplished, don't you ever doubt what you can do. You're a rock star.
All I can say for sure is Your killing all these new hurdles and skills. I love motorcycles and want to get a small one myself. I grew up around them and just enjoy them so much. So happy for you.
I’ve turned both of my daughters into viewers you are the perfect role model for my young ladies. I want them to know there is nothing they can’t do! Bless you!
that is so nice, thank you!!
Emma I'm glad you learned to ride and enjoy it. I have extensive riding experience in So Cal where there is a lot of traffic. Please allow me to offer you some advice. Always wear a helmet. Be super defensive when riding, people can't see motorcycles, try to anticipate their next move, don't ride beside them. Don't kick anything or put your feet down unless you're about to stop. I know a guy who stuck his foot out to kick a stop sign, now he only has one foot. Have fun, be safe, and you'll live to ride for a long time.
Congratulations on the Monkey. Everything will work out. Glad you passed the test.tou worry way to much and doubt yourself, you have this. Have a wonderful weekend, stay safe and healthy from Henrico County Virginia
The motorcycle certainly seems like a fun addition. I enjoy seeing you acquire skills and confidence Emma, good work. Thank you for the videos.
so happy to see how well youve taken to the moto!!
stay safe on your journeys! thanks for the videos! you always seem to entertain and distract me from lifes bs's..
I must say that it is sooooo good to see you smiling again and getting your confidence up about life in general. You've got a big old world to see and alot of great and exciting adventures that await you.......your life has just begun my friend, now get out there and enjoy! Have a super great terrific day!!!🙂
The bike is awesome Emma! So glad you are officially on the road. Hope you’re enjoying some beautiful scenery and sunshine ☀️. I loved the scenes you filmed from the rider perspective on the bike going on the trails and through the town. So excited for you !!!!
Lovely to see you fall in love with a Monkey and learn to ride... thanks for sharing. That ramp is way more difficult than it needs to be. It might be an idea to park next to a curb to raise the ramp up a bit more level. It might help to have a rail welded to the front of the mount... that would help you stay on course and also give you a great place to put your straps, padlock and chain. I think (from watching) your main issue is learning to fully control the clutch (like you own it). Easy to practice with hill starts and controlling at very low speeds. Using the engine to drive up the ramp is not easy for anyone... it is a real skill and you will almost certainly drop it before you master it. Experienced Bikers say until you have come off at least once you really are not a proper biker. To that end, please think about wearing something with leather or padded sleeves, gravel and tarmac will mess your flesh in an instant.
I was thinking some of the same things you mentioned I thought the ramp was a little short another foot longer might make it easier for her and you nailed the clutch comment. She'll get there and her video's are so cute she cracks me up.
Road rash is not good.
Wear protective clothing!
100 percent agree
Really great to see how your confidence and ability has grown over the past year , for a girl that travelled Europe alone but put all sorts of obstacles when it came to this project finally shows her tru characture , keep it up , love the show , from western Australia thanks from michael
When I tell my friends and relatives to watch your channel because you are inspiring,resourceful,and have a never give up attitude, I could go on and on. When they watch this episode they’ll understand. Way to go Emma!!
Your smile when you talk about your bike so warm
Emma you are so full of surprises and good on you. I love riding a motorcycle to the sense of freedom is amazing. Loved the video congratulations on getting the bike and your license. Steve
For your readers, I recommend taking the MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course. You learn some basic skills on the school's motorcycle that you should continue to practice after the single weekend course is over. However, the biggest plus is that in most states if you pass the skills test at the end of the MSF course you're issued a waiver that you take to your local DMV to skip having to take their skills test for the motorcycle endorsement on your license. Insurance companies will also give you a discount if you've taken it. The Honda Monkey was a good choice for starting out. Easy to handle and excellent Honda reliability.
You are fearless... amazing to watch.
Congrats on the bike.
I grew up riding dirt bikes.
I took a motorcycle safety course you should take one too.
You will learn a lot!
Remember every car on the road can kill you!!!
Other drivers don’t see you.
Rubber down
You are absolutely killing it!! Awesome 😎.
Hell yeah, I just got my monkey too this year
Never rode before, best decision I’ve ever made, cute and practical little bike!
You cannot go wrong with a Honda ! The best bike around !
Congrats on the Monkey! just always remember to have some form of glasses on to protect your eyes while riding, clear safety glasses or yellow lenses (helps reduce glares) at night
Good call, 100% correct 👍🏻
If you can handle that machine on the off road terrain, you can handle anything. Awesome
I’m so glad you love riding! You should be so proud of yourself for all that accomplished! ☀️💗🍺
Loooved this weeks video. There were more highs than lows and it just made me smile, seeing you were bossing it up. Getting your bike up on its rack made me so anxious. This is when that back door ramp would’ve came in handy (making it into a little garage/electrical space).
It's great to hear you brought a bike. I've race and ridden since I was six. My new bus, ill be bring all mine in a trailer. I can't live with out one, I'm 77. Have fun and ill keep watching your site. Ron
I live in a home made truck camper. I tow a little trailer with a dual-sport motorcycle. I think the bike is a great way to get around esp when your house gets very poor gas economy.
Im also a big fan of the monkey bikes, very fun to ride.
I came here because of the Monkey. I had a very similar experience. Gas prices forced me to buy a Honda Monkey as well. I have the same year and color as you. I just drove 8 hours to pick mine up. I agree, these Monkeys are super cute. I want to look like a Monkey driving them. This is the first brand new vehicle I’ve ever purchased. I had the same exact experience calling all the dealers. I used CycleTrader though. There’s the life before riding a motorcycle, and there’s the life after. You’re right, it is so much fun. I still need to get my license. I’ll have to practice in an empty lot as well. At the moment, I’m working on my counter steering. I never cry, but I would cry if I dropped my Monkey. I love your content. Please have more Monkey videos!
🎉 well done for passing such a big smile
Way to go, you it did it. Have fun!
I love this episode!
Long time rider here, and daily motorcycle commuter.
I have two adventure bikes in the garage now, and a Monkey will be my next bike.
It’s cool seeing you enjoying the Monkey so much!
Supply runs and errands will be SO much easier on the Monkey than using the bus.
Your negative issues with the Monkey will probably all be weather related.
Cold and wet can be a challenge on a motorcycle, but they can be overcome.
A good, all-weather riding suit will help a lot, or even just an inexpensive rain suit.
I finally got ski mittens to keep my hands warm in winter. It was a vast improvement.
Happy Trails!
Lots of good advice posted so far, gloves, eye protection and sturdy jacket are very important and not too uncomfortable. I think I read once that road rash on your hips is one of the most common injuries. Look up counter-steering. Something that is not intuitive.
Congrats Emma on passing you motorcycle test and that bike is the perfect size for you too. I had a motorcycle when I was younger but it was a dirt bike and when I lived in Missouri I used to do trail rides on it all the time. I'm itching to get a bike again but I have to save some money first lol. Ride safe
Keep going, you're doing great. Congrats on your motorcycle license. Can't wait for the next adventure you go on.
Wow!! That's great a bike 🏍 👍 Now on to great adventures 😀 👏
Congratulations!
Emma congratulations on the bike 🏍,you ride pretty good for the first time rider ,just be safe a watch out for the people that don’t see you ❤️
Congratulations on getting a motorcycle. You look so excited when you are ridding it. I hope you have fun.
Way to go Emma! Welcome to the club! Emma, Birbie and Bikie!
That grin when you're riding the motorcycle. You're totally hooked now!
Motorcycle!? Sweet!
How exciting! I too have been trying to learn how to drive my new bike. I have a 150cc Tao Vip. My husband got it for me and I've finally gotten up my courage to try it. I love it and can't wait to register and tag it. I'm still a little scared of going fast but I'm hoping that passes. You're doibg excellent! Kudos to you!
So happy for you. Congratulations
Congrats Emma on loading take your time and don't get rushed
Congratulations young lady!
Bus builder, biker chick. Is there anything you can’t/won’t do? You go girl…
Congratulations Emma on learning to ride a bike!.. You are so Amazing! I haven't ridden a motorcycle in a long time to be honest.. I owned a dirt bike and just rode on what they called the " chats " which was a few blocks away.. Now you just made me want to buy a bike... lol.. Also glad you sold the car and can move on with your new and exciting life.... I am so happy for you!.. Cheers from Missouri!
That is awesome you got a motorcycle. I have a 07 Hyosung GV650, I love it. Take your time to learn and stay safe and stay cautious.
You should be very proud of yourself. You decided to do one thing (Your bus) for yourself, probably not realizing the actual scope of the project, and you have kept going. There are many people that would have thrown in the towel. I tell my family members that even the most daunting project is actually just a series of little projects. So you should keep at it. Your are equipping yourself for a very adventurous life. Have fun along the way!
Congratulations Emma!
HANDS DOWN, THISMY FAVORITE VIDEO OF YOURS YET! I’m so excited for you! As an avid motorcyclist myself, I can still remember going though all of those exciting “firsts” on the motorcycle. The best of times! You’ve opened up a whole new world, and exciting pastime. I was SO excited when you said you passed your test. And as for the Honda Monkey… SO STINKIN’ CUTE! 🐒 I’ve wanted one ever since they brought them back a few years ago, just because of how cute they are. (And I’m used to flying around on a Honda CBR 1000RR, but I still want a Monkey LOL). I’m so proud of you, and happy for you!
That said, you missed one very important thing that all bikers on UA-cam are definitely required to do, and that is, give us a proper “reveal” and then “tour” of your new bike! We wanna check out how cool/cute it is 😃
congrats on the monkey emma. your smile when you succeed is precious. i smile so much watching your video. can hardly wait to see next weeks video. safe travels to you.
It’s been some trials and errors, but after all you have gotten forward and now slowly but surely you have gotten the most important pieces of the puzzle laid down. It was cool to see that you got yourself a motorbike / small but still very cool one. Congratulations on those achievements so far. Keep up the good work and your growth as independent and cool girl. Hope this leads you towards many new and exciting adventures and meeting lots of new friends and reunite with some friend along your journey. Be safe and take care always ♥️
Congrats on your test. 👍👍
CONGRAULATIONS on getting your motorcycle license & selling your car, Emma !!! I LOVE the Honda Monkey, I want one too but can't find one so I'm putting it off for a year or so. Hopefully the choice will be good & bikes will be plentiful.
I got my CT125 a few weeks back and like you, I have found that I love riding it around and back and fourth to work. Had a bigger bike some yrs back but really enjoying riding the smaller one I have now. Good luck in your future endeavors, looks like you are well on your way to doing the things you want to do.
Riding a slow bike fast is much more fun than a fast bike slow ;)
You're truly special Emma!
Another skill added to your
Repitoire. And right about the E bike, I have one ,but I love it..
You have a wonderfully supportive family..
And yet you are an independent wonderful
Woman..
Stay safe, enjoy life..and ride on!👍😊❤🎻🎶
Great job on your motorcycle purchase and license. Out here the driving test is to only do a figure 8 as well as passing the written test. Very happy for you, been following ever since you purchased the bus.
Great video. As you ride more you will get better on your motorcycle. They do sell a crash bar that encases the engine so when you drop the bike it will protect the engine. I have seen riders crack the case on an engine when they drop the bike and it May also prevent the bike from going over far enough to damage turn signals and handle bars. Everyone that rides a motorcycle either has dropped a bike or will drop a bike. Enjoy the rides in the beautiful countryside.
That was an emotional journey,,so glad you made ,, I don't know what I would have done if you didn't,, lols I am 57 and have had my motorcycle license since 16 it is a great freedom
Congrats! 😁
We Love your Monkey. My wife got one earlier this year and yes we had to wait for it to come in. She wanted the black one too. She loves it. We love your videos.
Congrats Emma on getting your licensing, Happy Biking & Busing on your next adventure!!!
that's AWESOME, you are doing great, Congrats to you!
Emma, lots of good comments here for you, your efforts, your accomplishments. This comment is different. You have something special, stage presence, and you can sing, i heard you. Start making it to casting calls, they are all around you. Performing arts.. keep trying there is a perfect place for you in that community. You can park your bus out back behind the theater… Wishing all the best for you. Rich&Brenda
Congratulations Emma 😊❤️💫
Awesome video
That smile on your face tho, when you left your brothers behind on the trail! 🤣
Way to go Emma! You have now been bit by the bike bug and it is such a blast isn’t it. So proud of you. Oh! And the Monkey🐒 is adorable.😍
Emma there are a couple of things that might make the bike loading/unloading easier. A trailer hitch drop would get that height down which helps me a bunch. Something like the MAXXHAUL 50397 Trailer Hitch Riser for 2 Inch Receivers with 4 Inch Rise/Drop. Alternately RV levels you drive onto just under the rear tires will do this too. This would not work as well as it does on my van because of your wheelbase.
Beautiful bike
Super impressive control right from the beginning! Be careful out there hun and remember vehicles are never to be trusted!
Just stumbled on this video looking at van build stuff. It was so cool to see you fall in love with the Monkey. I'm 59 and just got back into motorcycles since the early 90's. I have a 2019 Monkey too. Really got in to the Honda Mini-motos and now have 7 of them. Take a look at the Trail 125. I think it might be a little better for what you are doing. If you had both to choose from at the time, I bet you'd have chosen it. They are hard to find. A big back rack for hauling things, and more off-road capable for exploring trails. Works great on the road too. I love them both.