I am a new rider and I got real excited about buying a bike that I didn't think much about weight just speed. I ended up buying a used 98 Honda Shadow ACE 750. I just tried riding the thing and I had a very hard time shifting into first gear and trying to balance the bike. Dropped it twice, amazingly no scratches. I'm scared that it's too big and I will not get the hang of riding. How can I not be so scared about learning how to ride?

Any suggestions?

1st off , welcome to the TMW Forums . Secondly , take the MSF course in your area . It is worth every ¢.
Kind regards, Wizzard

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"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, throughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming --- ' WOW, WHAT A RIDE!!!! ' " - Author Unknown

Yup. Take the MSF. Not sure if finances allow, but it might be worth looking around for a used beater bike (small, ugly, but light) to get your legs on for a bit.

Yeah, that Aero is a LOT of motorcycle for a brand newbie.

WELCOME!!

P

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ATGATT: Becuase walking away in disgust beats riding away in an ambulance.
Admitted BMW MC snob.

Welcome aboard!! What's already been said is what you should do, if possible. Once you get the basics down and are able to practice, things will smooth out quite a bit. Heavy and/or fast bikes are a lot to deal with for a beginner. Your main focus should be on becoming a proficient rider. Once you get a hold of good riding skills, riding a larger bike won't feel so overwhelming.

Now if you're not able to practice on a smaller bike or take the MSF course, then the best you can do is just take your time and study on the best techniques for riding well - and practice, practice, practice.

Good luck, and enjoy the forums.

Cheers,
Loonette

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FIRST RESPONDERS DO IT WITH LIGHTS AND SIRENS!!
Find 'em hot, leave 'em wet...

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2006 Mean Streak 1600

Ok, I have a 1998 shadow ace 750. When I first started practicing I too was a bit fearful, mostly for my bike lol
But I had not help getting to a parking lot to practice so here is what I did. I got a little 50 cc custom tank bike. they cost about $1,000. I found it on the internet. I bought it and it was delivered to me. Here in las vegas any bike under 50 cc which this is really a 47.9 cc you don't have to have a license ,insurance or registration to ride it. Only a norm drivers license.
I have practiced on this for 7 months . Now I am ready for my shadow.
The adjustment is just a matter of weight, balance and power.
I would suggest a smaller bike. If you don't have someone to ride with you with a permit or license then my way is the way to go. It is the best investment I made for myself.
Good luck and it a all come. Takes time and practice.
Maggy /
<img src="http://img15.imgspot.com/u/06/359/00/10100516231167109485.jpg">

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RIDE TO LIVE
MAGGY