Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: New rider, big, bike

Question
Pat,

I did read an earlie rpost from late 2009 regarding starting out on a larger motorcycle. I am 61 and completed a Motorcycle Safety Course and have read a number of articles on line. My desire to ride with friends who all ride larfer Harleys and Goldwings led me to purchase a used 1992 Goldwing. I did try out the new 1800 for seat height, etc. Later realizing it is lower by about an inch or so. Although able to enter lanes and riding only in my neighborhood until my confidence is raised, I still have a challenge with the weight of the bike.

My first venture out was an early Sunday morning when traffic would be very light. Only on the side streets and under 30 mph. Some turns were a little wide, but overall OK. Drove back in the driveway (slightly uphill) applied brakes and the the Goldwing immediately flopped over and I could not hold it. I laid it down gently as possible, but it was going down.

I had viewed YouTube sights on how to raise the center stand and pick up a Goldwing. The technique worked and on the second attempt I was able to raise the Wing. The bike didn't have a scratch but my confidence and ego were badly bruised. Now, I am looking into have the seat foam shaved down and inch or so for better leg extension, I am 5'8" and just don't ahve the power to hold the bike if it tilts. I have been trying to figure out why the bike tilted so quickly and felt like it was just sliding out from under so I had no chance of stopping it.  

Although I know how to lift it on flat ground, my fear is dropping it alone on a lonely Sunday morning. My stops were slow almost stops and that is not good. Like I said, my confidence was really shaken after having what I felt was a great ride on a large bike.
Maybe I am going through what everyone goes through with a large bike.

Any advise or thoughts.

Answer
Starting out at 60+ with a Gold Wing as a first bike is going to be a challenge. (The bike you're lusting after is almost always NOT the best bike to learn on.) The difference between riding a big bike and a small bike is similar to the difference between driving a car and driving a large truck: the controls are pretty much the same, but due to the increased size and added weight, the larger vehicle requires more skill and planning ahead.

I just published a book for riders of heavyweight motorcycles called "Maximum Control." I recommend you pick up a copy and study it. There are 10 drills in there you can practice on your own to improve your control and handling, and it will help you understand why big bikes do what they do, and how to make the most of the experience.

Your best bet is to find a smaller bike, a 4-cyl up to 500cc or a 2-cyl up to 650cc, and spend a couple years learning the ropes on a bike you can handle more easily. It's unwise to try to "keep up" with your experienced friends and try to fit in on a bike that's too big for you right now. If you insist on learning on a big bike, read the book and take it slow.

Pat