Finding parts, finding help

Up until now, I haven't provided much other than my story. But from here on out, now that my background has been filled in, I'll be adding links and advice from my personal recovery and the quest to fix up the bike. Since I wasn't injured too severely, and the bike didn't take immense damage, I'm also focusing on the third issue that motorcycle crash victims must deal with- confidence. Getting back on the bike after a big wreck can be intimidating and nerve wracking, but with the right frame of mind and some time, those psychological barriers can be overcome.

First this week, some resources for finding parts and the expertise you need to install them yourself. I'll start with what may be the most essential page for any motorcyclist on the web: BikeBandit. In addition to their enormous catalog of aftermarket parts and accessories, BikeBandit also provides OEM parts straight from the manufacturers, and a full set of schematics for every model year of every model motorcycle since the 1970s. Nothing is more helpful than their diagrams and the very useful "zoom lens" feature that lets you quickly view the detail and the big picture of whatever you are working on. Great stuff!

Second, for injured riders who, unlike myself, were involved in a multi-vehicle accident, you MUST contact the AMA. The AMA is a rider advocacy group that sponsors racing and provides legal services to motorcyclists. Given the high number of injuries in motorcycle accidents, and the frequent use of the "invisible motorcycle" excuse, riders may find themselves in need of experienced representation. The AMA is the place to go.

Finally, finding the confidence and composure necessary to ride safely and comfortable can be tough. Many riders find help through professional riding schools, such as Freddie Spencer's. His Performance Riding School is renowned for improving skills, enforcing solid technique principles, and helping riders boost their confidence in their own abilities. Their focus in on the track, but is highly applicable to riding in the city and on the highway. I am enrolling in a spring session myself, and I hope that some time on a very fast machine where no one can give me speeding tickets will get me back on two wheels!