View Full Version : I am hurt and disappointed.
It has been brought to my attention that several folk were not happy with my attendance at NW3. I understand that folk felt that I slowed down proceedings,held the group up and did not 'join in'.:(
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that with these rides, everyone is encouraged to ride at their own pace and that no one is ever left behind? I feel that this is exactly how I rode, so I am very surprised that such sentiments have been expressed. :(. I can accept folk's disapproval at my poor skills in handling the bike, but how does this affect anyone else's riding and enjoyment? If anyone was held back by me, it would be the TECs, and as far as I'm aware they were quite happy to sit at the back with me.
This has really knocked me for six. :smt009 We all have different riding abilities and circumstances. Some people are better than others. Some have more confidence than others. Some like myself are slowly regaining their confidence following an off. I doubt I'll ever be the riding god that most of you are, but how about making allowances for those not as skilled as yourselves? I guess that for me, NW3 was one allowance too many.:(
In the same vein, we all have different personalities. Some of us are loud,some of us are quiet, some of us are are bold and extroverted, where others are shy and more reserved, but we all have one common denominator. We are bikers. And we are members of the .org. Is that not enough? Is it asking too much to expect that we accept each other just the way we are and revel in the variety of personalities that make up the mighty .org?
I am truly, truly hurt and disappointed by this. :nomore:
Oh dear :( I always worry about meeting up with big groups for fear of feeling exactly as you do right now.
I'm a quite and shy individual in person around new people, and the worry that my riding may **** people off is always in the back of my mind.
Dont know what to say really!! Its a real shame some people feel that way.
Mel
Dont be too disheartened by this. I dont agree with whats happened to you, but sadly, this happens too often on rideouts. Everyone thinks its a race or a blat.
In my mind a rideout is a gathering of like minded bikers that just enjoy riding together and your ability should never come into it.
If the ride was going to be fast paced, then that expectation should have been made clear.
If you where closer, then you should come on a SELKent rideout. We breakdwon, fall off, loose alram fobs, get lost, all manner of things, but we all have fun. If the faster riders want to bugger off then they do.
I would put it down to experience and please dont dwell on it. Its just sad that these things happen and the people who have said these thing should be ashamed of themselves! Just let me and Jester at em :)
Mel
Dont be too disheartened by this. I dont agree with whats happened to you, but sadly, this happens too often on rideouts. Everyone thinks its a race or a blat.
In my mind a rideout is a gathering of like minded bikers that just enjoy riding together and your ability should never come into it.
If the ride was going to be fast paced, then that expectation should have been made clear.
If you where closer, then you should come on a SELKent rideout. We breakdwon, fall off, loose alram fobs, get lost, all manner of things, but we all have fun. If the faster riders want to bugger off then they do.
I would put it down to experience and please dont dwell on it. Its just sad that these things happen and the people who have said these thing should be ashamed of themselves! Just let me and Jester at em :)
I agree with Viney
:grouphug:
this is disapointing......... but dont let it put you off, there will always be faster and slower riders but the idea on rideouts is to have fun, and be safe, just ride to your own caperbilitys (?) i guess there will always people who want to go fast.
ps i think i found your keys, but they have a ford keyring on them, so they might be somone elses :kiss:
mister c
08-04-08, 08:00 AM
Don't know the ins & outs of it, but in my eyes a rideout is exactly that, a group of bikers go for a ride out.
Not everybody is a riding god that can scrape thier knees at the earliest opportunity. Some are fast, some are slow, which is nothing to be sorry about as long as you enjoy your bike that's all that counts.
My son didn't want to come out with me when he 1st bought his 125 because, in his words "you will sod off & leave me behind". I sat behind him & let him do the ride & I really enjoyed it. We have been into Wales, down to Stafford, Birmingham etc etc. If I want to have a good thrash, then I go off on my own.
The point I am getting at is that, whoever is moaning about somebody elses riding wants to keep thier thoughts to themselves & if they don't like it, then stay at home.
arenalife
08-04-08, 08:03 AM
That sounds like a rough deal, biking is an individual affair and no one should pushed out of their box. We do it to get away from crap, not get more of it :) I'm sure I'd be at the back of any rideout, looking at views and avoiding cowpats etc, I don't care how anyone else would feel, it's my life and licence, they can do what they want.
Mucho 'balls' for posting Melody, I'd rather ride with a polite considerate biker than a bad hooner anyday.
+1
I get the feeling that some go out on these rideouts to show off their lack of chicken strips and shower the road with sparks off their sliders.
Aren't rideouts supposed to be social occasions? Track days are for showing off.
I note and am suprised no one who was on the rideout has posted yet.
DanAbnormal
08-04-08, 08:17 AM
In my mind a rideout is a gathering of like minded bikers that just enjoy riding together and your ability should never come into it.
+1.
Please don't give up.
Tiger 55
08-04-08, 08:20 AM
Didn't join in? What was it, a children's party? Shame on those that have made you feel this way mate, shame.
We had a good look at ourselves in Ecosse last year because rideouts had become intimidatingly fast and numbers were down. Now we are only held up by people falling off, breaking down, riding parts of the route twice (deliberately and by accident) and generally having a good laugh. Don't get me wrong, the hooners still hoon off but it's a social event above all else.
Hope you give it another go.
Dave The Rave
08-04-08, 08:25 AM
Take no notice. Maybe next time the TEC can ride ahead of you as we did at Cathrine's wheel to get you to follow him/her?
I note and am suprised no one who was on the rideout has posted yet.
Those "rock and roll" fast riders will still be asleep! :mrgreen:
Seriously though, I think most of us know what it's like to be at the back of the group. After my first off, I arranged a weekend out with 6 close mates. 4 of them were riding, what was in my opinion, mentally fast. I just couldn't keep up, and another guy felt they were also riding too fast for conditions, getting caught up in the moment etc. I was totally fuming. They went off ahead, the group got split up.....ruined the day in my opinion.
Then there was another time I organised a trip to the 'ring. A noob biker mate of mine came along, and on the ride outs we were waiting AGES for him to catch up! But he didn't care, and neither did we. He rode his own ride, and had a wicked time.
Remember, biking is a skill, you never stop learning. I've recently got an SV, and I've got to learn how to ride it, after having IL4 sportsbikes. I'm now slow again, as I need to build my confidence up, learn the bike, etc. And I was never fast to start with anyway :(
Ride your own ride. Bad Karma to the guys who didn't show you enough courtesy. But pick and chose your rideout buddies..........I was invited to ride out with a guy near me. It turns out he is a mentalist - broke his neck 18 months ago when he met up with a dry stone wall. I'll be giving him and his rideouts a miss!
If you want to head north one day, we have good roads up here. We can take a scenic run out. Hartside, Devils Bridge, then back to Squires! PM me when it's warmer! :)
Your not slow...you go at your own speed...
Me and drew went at our own speed on NW......which wasn't with the quick guys at the front which I wouldn't of felt comfortable at that speed. The benefit of not beening quick meant that we got to look at all the beautiful scenery.......
I think if I ever got my own bike, I wouldn't race around; I'd take in what's around me.....and go at my speed and what I'm comfortable with.
I'm sorry you fell this way and I hope to see you soon on another ride out.... as I really enjoyed meeting you.
Lily x :grouphug:
missyburd
08-04-08, 08:32 AM
Aww Mel! :grouphug: Tis a real shame about this, my idea of a rideout would be exactly the same, what's going on? Clearly there are going to be differing abilities out on the road, I was under the impression everyone was given a chance to improve/have fun/meet others all in the good name of biking, noone should be feeling this way!
I hope this doesn't put you off rideouts sweetie, I want you to come to the AR!!! :(
454697819
08-04-08, 09:14 AM
It has been brought to my attention that several folk were not happy with my attendance at NW3. I understand that folk felt that I slowed down proceedings,held the group up and did not 'join in'.:(
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that with these rides, everyone is encouraged to ride at their own pace and that no one is ever left behind? I feel that this is exactly how I rode, so I am very surprised that such sentiments have been expressed. :(. I can accept folk's disapproval at my poor skills in handling the bike, but how does this affect anyone else's riding and enjoyment? If anyone was held back by me, it would be the TECs, and as far as I'm aware they were quite happy to sit at the back with me.
This has really knocked me for six. :smt009 We all have different riding abilities and circumstances. Some people are better than others. Some have more confidence than others. Some like myself are slowly regaining their confidence following an off. I doubt I'll ever be the riding god that most of you are, but how about making allowances for those not as skilled as yourselves? I guess that for me, NW3 was one allowance too many.:(
In the same vein, we all have different personalities. Some of us are loud,some of us are quiet, some of us are are bold and extroverted, where others are shy and more reserved, but we all have one common denominator. We are bikers. And we are members of the .org. Is that not enough? Is it asking too much to expect that we accept each other just the way we are and revel in the variety of personalities that make up the mighty .org?
I am truly, truly hurt and disappointed by this. :nomore:
****.. thats no good..
Ill pm you next time im heading out around leeds, well go for a pootle.. :smt041im still breakign in the tuono so no chance of me hooning off.
whilst i love the atmosphere of ridouts, i dont like riding in large groups.
Mel,
I am shocked and discusted to hear that some of the riders on NW3 said that, I not once remember you holding things up at all, you rode at your own pace the whole time and given that you are getting your confidence back its not surprising that you did not want to go off at a million miles per hour.
the pack in NW3 basically split into 3 main groups from what i saw, and not once did any one IMO hold anyone else up.
As for you being quiet and not joining in, so what you are your own person and just because you were not jumping arround and being the center of attention did not mean you did not join in.
Please dont let anyone who has made comments about you on NW3 put you off attending any further events like the AR.
I ride at my own pace when out and always say to people i will be doing that, i will not be forced or pressured into going faster than i am comfy with on any ride out, its not safe, and if peeps dont like that stace then they should not ride with me.
I've been on rideouts where people have naffed off at a rapid pace of knots and then got caught in the mind set that if i don't try and keep at thier pace they'll think i'm crap/slow/holding them up....but then so what! I'd rather ride at my own pace and my own abilities and feel safe than trying to keep up with someone who has 20 odd years more experience than me.
At the end of the day you ride how YOU want to ride, sod what others may think, whats the point of going out on what should be a pleasurable experience with good friends and scaring the bajayzus out of yourself.
If there real freinds and have your safety at heart they'll wait for you and encourage you, not berate you behind your back.
After an off i should imagine anybodies confidence will be shot to pieces so the last thing you need is small minded bigots giving you grief.
Keep your chin up Mel and don't let the barstewards get you down.
Keep safe
Cuffy.
shonadoll
08-04-08, 09:27 AM
What a bunch of old wimmen!:( I'm sorry, that's just crap behaviour. This is why I'm so reluctant to try rideouts cos in theory they all say it's fine, then bitch about me afterwards because I couldn't or wouldn't keep up.
You have guts for getting back to rising after an off, so please don't let others spoil it for you [-o<
Gordon B
08-04-08, 09:37 AM
Don't know what happened but Mel obviously feels strongly about this.
Guess who won't be getting extra baps at AR...
Mel,
You know you are always welcome to come out with the Massive.
Remember our chicken strips ride last year, well I'm organising more for this year and I expect you to be there...:king:
CoolGirl
08-04-08, 09:48 AM
Don't worry Mel, you'll get your groove back. I remember when I was new and riding with little boys who thought they were big men becasue they rode fast (and stupidly). I learnt to be more selective about who I let ride with me!
:smt038 for your very brave post Mel.
Wasn't there so I can't comment. But every rideout organised on this 'big girls bike' forum is supposed to be all inclusive for every ability as long as you can safely ride. I think the hooning rideouts can be left to the Gixxer, Ninja & VD forums.
Obviously on the social side, everyone is different and that's what makes this place so fantastic that it's not all loudmouths shouting over each other.
So I hope & pray that this will not put you off for your riding, or attending anyother event.
Just remember, Last years AR i dont in the car, and we still kept up with everyone, even the heros ;)
SoulKiss
08-04-08, 10:10 AM
Keep at it Mel :)
For every Bear or Grinch there needs to be a Mel, it balances it all out, and makes life interesting.
As for riding - well I dont recall you arriving THAT far behind me at any of the AR07 stops, mind you maybe my "Captain Slow" tag is showing ...... :P
Bluepete
08-04-08, 10:10 AM
Mel, I didn't think you slowed down the ride, it was, after all, a group affair, with stops for rests and photo's. (not on Saturday, 'cos no-one had a waterproof camera!)
I marked plenty of junctions and did not once think you were any slower than the other bods around you.
Saturday evening was all 'round, a quiet affair, most were too tired I thought for much frivolity. The photo's show people snoozing on those chairs, and it was an early to bed night.
Sad you have been upset by some peoples comments, don't let it get to you. After all, your resilience is not in question after coming back from the Hardy Bikers events!
Pete :smt058
Don't let the few put you off rideouts.
missyburd
08-04-08, 10:18 AM
Your not slow...you go at your own speed...
The benefit of not beening quick meant that we got to look at all the beautiful scenery.......
I think if I ever got my own bike, I wouldn't race around; I'd take in what's around me.....and go at my speed and what I'm comfortable with.
Wise words, my thoughts exactly. Biking isn't all about speed, you do what's best for you always.
When I get my bike (I say when :)) I shall pootle about for as long as like and noone shall tell me otherwise. You stick to your guns Mel ;)
I haven't read the whole thread to be perfectly honest, as I wanted to put my point across, and frankly, I'm pretty p*d off that someone (or some people) has (or have) said that Melody.
I note and am suprised no one who was on the rideout has posted yet.
I've only just come across this thread, and I did attend the ride.
My take on NW3...
Saturday was p* poor weather. It was raining, in my opinion, mildly, and numerous folks had commented about the back end sliding a little as they felt they were pushing a bit hard. Every person that said that to me, I responded with "take it easy, unfamiliar roads" etc etc.
Until Davy Jones' Locker in Barmouth, I was playing marker. At Barmouth, Moses (600+) asked me if I'd mind going TEC. No problem, I'd had a play, and was more than happy to sit at the back & pootle along.
Melody, unfortunately, I only saw your riding really from when we left Barmouth. Not 5mins out of Barmouth, Jason came off his Pan, probably writing it off and sustaining pretty severe injuries.
For everyone reading this, it's soley BECAUSE of Melody's riding that there was a medically trained member of the Org at Jason by the time I came across him (and Jason's bike had pretty much only just stopped moving by that point!). So I pulled alongside Jason, had a quick look at him, saw he was wriggling therefore breathing, quick look at his bike, wheel wasn't spinning & it was on it's side, so I assumed the engine was dead. That leaves me on traffic duty.
Probably within 60seconds of Jason hitting the floor, the entire scene had been contained (in terms of medical staff on site, and traffic controlled). Again, IMO, this was pretty much solely because of Melody. I'm sure others at the scene wouldn't disagree with me (and I agree, Pete & Lissa did their usual wonderful job).
From that accident, we pretty much crawled the rest of the way to Llanberis. If the people that passed comment on Melody's riding did not stop at Jason's accident, they have no right to pass comment on that part, as they weren't with us. I lead from the accident site to Llanberis, with Pete taking TEC. The reason we crawled all the way is that we'd just seen an accident, it was getting dark and it was raining heavier than it had in the daytime.
On the Sunday morning, I remember passing comment to some people (though deliberately didn't speak up - dizzyblonde is one of those that I spoke to) that I thought Saturday's ride was a tad on the slow side. However, I also stated that it was fully understandable due to the fact that people didn't know the roads (whereas I did) and it was raining (and some people on the rideout don't ride in the wet much). Then there were people like Quiff on a new bike that he wasn't comfortable on (and turned out that his tyres weren't legal). So again, whilst I found the pace slow, it was perfectly acceptable, and in all honesty, big respect to Mike for slowing it down a little due to conditions & experience of attendees.
Then came the Sunday ride, and I took a few folks to the petrol station (Melody was one of those that had enough fuel due to being in the back group on Saturday). I had a little play up & down the road to the petrol station.
Mike asked me to TEC on the morning, which was fine, a good chance to take in the scenery. Again, these were very local roads to me, and I can hoon around them when I like, and wouldn't consider hooning when in a group anyway. Even marking would of been done 'briskly' and in no way what I consider a 'hoon.'
From Llanberis until BYC (where me & Neil peeled off to visit Jason) I was TEC, and Melody was in front of me pretty much all the time. I saw absoluetely nothing wrong with Melody's riding.
If anything Melody, one thing I thought about your riding is that you've VASTLY improved from the AR07 & NW2. If you want we can have a chat about exactly where I have seen that you've improved, not that a chat like that's needed, but it may help in the light of opinions expressed to you after NW3.
From BYC onwards, I don't have any comment on your riding Melody, as obviously I wasn't there.
Keep the chin up, and regardless of the next rideout you're on, if I'm there, consider the same offer extended as before, if you want someone to stay with you, just say so & it's done. :)
The point I am getting at is that, whoever is moaning about somebody elses riding wants to keep thier thoughts to themselves & if they don't like it, then stay at home.
You sir, deserve a pint, feel free to cash in on the next rideout. I agree wholeheartedly.
EDIT: I'm also aware that I scared two people on the way from Ruthin to Ponderosa on the Saturday, and for that, I apologise again. Also, if any of my riding scared anyone else, I apologise. However, if anyone has any comments on my riding, please avoid detracting from this thread & post a new one (or contact me directly).
_Stretchie_
08-04-08, 10:24 AM
Jesus Baph..!!
Mel, you're a lovley lass, don't get rushed by anyone!.
No war and peace from me just two words..
SCREW EM.....
The way I read the post I dont think it was being slow that upset Mel but more peoples not accepting, b*tching and/or backstabbing of a fellow rider... I hope its just an over reaction or taken out of context as Stu said the reason this place is so good is peoples acceptance tollerance and understanding for all levels and walks of life.
I do think ride pace and any group riding systems should be clearly outlined by the organiser though - just so expectations are the same.
Bluepete
08-04-08, 10:34 AM
I do think ride pace and any group riding systems should be clearly outlined by the organiser though - just so expectations are the same.
Mike did a group briefing explaining exactly this at the Ponderosa on Saturday.
Luckypants
08-04-08, 10:43 AM
Mike did a group briefing explaining exactly this at the Ponderosa on Saturday.
Thanks Pete. I feel I cannot say anything on this thread because it was a ride I organised.
Thanks Pete. I feel I cannot say anything on this thread because it was a ride I organised.
And an exceptional job you did. I don't see how that prevents you from passing comment, but should that be your opinion, you're entitled to it :)
Mike did a group briefing explaining exactly this at the Ponderosa on Saturday.
Sure. Just to clarify I meant in general when organising a ride on here it would be great to outline the pace and any systems used so people know what to expect prior to turning up - so that expectations are the same.
well i thought that NW3 was excently run well briefed.Naturally there became a few groups as people slotted into smaller groups with people of a similar ability and comfort zone. This if anything made it better as there was always someone arround who was riding very much like yourself.
Bluepete
08-04-08, 10:54 AM
Sure. Just to clarify I meant in general when organising a ride on here it would be great to outline the pace and any systems used so people know what to expect prior to turning up - so that expectations are the same.
I understand entirely and was pleased to read Mikes guide (http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=106907) to junction marking.
Thanks Pete. I feel I cannot say anything on this thread because it was a ride I organised.
:oops: sorry thought this thread was lightening up with all the support rallying round for Mel.
can we not let this thread dissend into whitch hunt, nor let it put people riding in organised ORG ride outs please??
plowsie
08-04-08, 10:56 AM
As far as from I can gather Mel, your riding is fine, why don't the people own up to it. Challenge Blue to a race lol.
yorkie_chris
08-04-08, 11:00 AM
Melody, unfortunately, I only saw your riding really from when we left Barmouth. Not 5mins out of Barmouth, Jason came off his Pan, probably writing it off and sustaining pretty severe injuries.
For everyone reading this, it's soley BECAUSE of Melody's riding that there was a medically trained member of the Org at Jason by the time I came across him (and Jason's bike had pretty much only just stopped moving by that point!). So I pulled alongside Jason, had a quick look at him, saw he was wriggling therefore breathing, quick look at his bike, wheel wasn't spinning & it was on it's side, so I assumed the engine was dead. That leaves me on traffic duty.
I think I was first one to him, and didn't have a f###ing clue what to do. Settled for phoning the ambulance rather than standing there like a nugget. So thankyou for being there.
Probably within 60seconds of Jason hitting the floor, the entire scene had been contained (in terms of medical staff on site, and traffic controlled). Again, IMO, this was pretty much solely because of Melody. I'm sure others at the scene wouldn't disagree with me (and I agree, Pete & Lissa did their usual wonderful job).
Yes, excellent job.
From that accident, we pretty much crawled the rest of the way to Llanberis. If the people that passed comment on Melody's riding did not stop at Jason's accident, they have no right to pass comment on that part, as they weren't with us. I lead from the accident site to Llanberis, with Pete taking TEC. The reason we crawled all the way is that we'd just seen an accident, it was getting dark and it was raining heavier than it had in the daytime.
The rest of us were riding very slowly there, conditions were 'orrible.
From Llanberis until BYC (where me & Neil peeled off to visit Jason) I was TEC, and Melody was in front of me pretty much all the time. I saw absoluetely nothing wrong with Melody's riding.
Pretty much all I've seen of your riding mel was going down to Mike's on Friday night, which was very slow granted, but it was cold, horrible weather and bad visibility. Since you're not used to riding in conditions that bad that didn't suprise me at all.
Mike did a group briefing explaining exactly this at the Ponderosa on Saturday.
And the gist of it was "ride at your own pace, don't push your luck and enjoy"
missyburd
08-04-08, 11:00 AM
Thanks Pete. I feel I cannot say anything on this thread because it was a ride I organised.
From what I have heard and read about NW3, I was very sorry to have missed it (apart from the weather :rolleyes:) so can conclude it was a great success. How people respond and act on a rideout is not something you can control unfortunately, and as a result there will always be some people who manage to make things uncomfortable for others, whether they mean to or not. These people need to buck their ideas up and think before they speak/bitch :smt075
Kate Moss
08-04-08, 11:05 AM
F' em Mel, you got home safely didn't you? Thats all that should matter.
Melody, I have had a quick flick through this thread and I would just like to say congratulations to you.
I think that too many people feel pressured to ride beyond their ability when riding with others. For you to exercise restraint and stay within your abilities is far better than keeping others "happy" by risking the unthinkable.
Keep within your abilities and bugger what anybody else thinks, it's your bike and your life. Ride safe.
As far as from I can gather Mel, your riding is fine, why don't the people own up to it. Challenge Blue to a race lol.
It would be nice of them to come forward I guess, and explain how they feel..... and explain if they think their words have been taken out of context.
Higly unlikely to happen though unfortunately :(
Pedrosa
08-04-08, 11:19 AM
Despite my WAY too many years riding I can assure everyone that un known roads, wet conditions, diminishing light and having witnessed an accident would completely slow me down.
All in all the cause of this thread is very sh*tty indeed.
Would a reasonable thing to suggest not be that,people at the start of a ride out hold their hands up,(without fear of criticism or sarcasm) and form a group that is happier at a more relaxed pace? Then those who want to use a group ride out like a "willy measuring" contest can go off and do there thing without putting undue pressures on others?
trickywoos
08-04-08, 11:23 AM
Melody, I have had a quick flick through this thread and I would just like to say congratulations to you.
I think that too many people feel pressured to ride beyond their ability when riding with others. For you to exercise restraint and stay within your abilities is far better than keeping others "happy" by risking the unthikable.
Keep within your abilities and bugger what anybody else thinks, it's your bike and your life. Ride safe.
Seconded. Have seen too many rideouts where people felt like they were forced to keep up, and although it is re-iterated at the start of the rideout that it is not the case, I can see how easy it must be to fall into that trap.
Don't stop riding in the groups Mel, it can be a learning curve for many others- not just yourself. I hope you continue enjoying your bike, with the forum rideouts, and that your confidence hasn't been knocked by any nasty words.
plowsie
08-04-08, 11:24 AM
Would a reasonable thing to suggest not be that,people at the start of a ride out hold their hands up,(without fear of criticism or sarcasm) and form a group that is happier at a more relaxed pace? Then those who want to use a group ride out like a "willy measuring" contest can go off and do there thing without putting undue pressures on others?
Speaking for the last time only (NW2), that did happen on the Sunday for everyone, all seemed happy :)
It has been brought to my attention that several folk were not happy with my attendance at NW3. I understand that folk felt that I slowed down proceedings,held the group up and did not 'join in'.:(
If anyone was held back by me, it would be the TECs, and as far as I'm aware they were quite happy to sit at the back with me.
Melody - as a TEC I need to say to you that I was by NO means disappointed with your attendance!! Yes you are slower than I am but it was MY choice to be TEC and being TEC meant that I would be last and possibly riding slower than if I was on my own or further up the group.
With regards to your character I find you a very nice person to be around and I certainly don't have a problem if you are a loud or not so loud person
so...... whos moaning about mel?
as it seems most the peeps on the ride out have posted, saying there was not a problem.
F' em Mel, you got home safely didn't you? Thats all that should matter.
+ 1 totally agree with that
so...... whos moaning about mel?
as it seems most the peeps on the ride out have posted, saying there was not a problem.
Good question plowsie.....obviously whoever passed the news to Mel did a great job at telling a whole load of misinterpreted comments
Cant beleive Im reading this Mel, who,s complained about you ? I thought the whole day went really well considering the weather conditions we all experienced, I cant speak for sunday as I had to leave early, and as far as joining in is concerened you were talking to me for ages leaning up against the sink upstairs in Petes eats and lets face it chatting to me is gonna get you yawning quicker than you might think possible :D, as far as I can see, you rode well, held nobody up, and made it to yet another big more rideout when others couldnt be ar$ed, if these fast riders arent happy let em **** off to there own rideout in future, stick with your mates Mel.
yorkie_chris
08-04-08, 12:01 PM
With regards to your character I find you a very nice person to be around and I certainly don't have a problem if you are a loud or not so loud person
and did not 'join in'.:(
I know I was swearing a lot while butchering your alarm, but nothing personal :-P
Speaking for myself, and I'm fairly sure for everyone who's met you as well, I think you're a good laugh and a pleasure to be around. Who say's you weren't "joining in"?
:mrgreen: I think you're great, Melody. :mrgreen:
Edit: Iz all bettur now yas? :mrgreen:
Speedy Claire
08-04-08, 12:13 PM
I`ve taken my time in deciding how to respond to this post because I couldn`t quite believe what I was reading when I logged on. All I can think is that you have somehow got the wrong end of the stick here and have totally over reacted.
First of all nobody was unhappy with your attendance at NW3 and I can`t understand why you`ve posted to that effect. You are always encouraged to join Border Patrol rideouts and welcomed as one of the gang.
As you full well know riders of all abilities are encouraged to join the rideouts and every provision is made for them. Mike did a fantastic job in organising NW3 and every allowance was made for riders who choose to ride at a slower pace and I include myself in that list of slower riders as I am also slowly regaining my confidence after an off. If you have received some feedback from NW3 then I think you should look at that as a positive thing. I too received feedback and I valued the input from other more experienced riders than myself. I put that feedback to good use and enrolled on a bikesafe course.
Yes I agree we all have different personalities.... some of us are extrovert, others more introvert. From what I saw people went out of their way to include you and show you friendship. I don`t know what else you expected people to do for you that wasn`t done for you that weekend.
I can`t believe you have posted this thread and feel quite strongly that you should have pm`d anyone you have a grievance with rather than giving people the wrong impression. NW3 was a huge success and I feel that you have now put the Border Patrol in a bad light and might deter new members from joining any future rideouts.
I`m not sure what you hoped to achieve by this thread but hope that whatever it is you`ve achieved it? you feel hurt and disappointed you say, I`m sure your hurt and disappointment doesn`t come close to the outrage some members of the Border Patrol are going to be feeling at reading your thread.
If my words seem harsh I apologise but I hope they convey the disappointment felt and personally I think this thread should now be closed.
plowsie
08-04-08, 12:16 PM
I`m sure your hurt and disappointment doesn`t come close to the outrage some members of the Border Patrol are going to be feeling at reading your thread.
Seems most of the BP peeps have posted in here...Or so, the members of the ride...
Drew Carey
08-04-08, 12:18 PM
Heya Mel - Reading this is quite upsetting. As Lily put earlier, we were in the middle bunch most of the weekend. The only time I believe we were behind you was after Jason's off......at that point it was dark, wet, windy and we had all experienced something horrible. Plus Gid was a bag of nerves. So going slow was the most sensible thing. If I had wanted to go quicker, would have overtaken. Ignore whatever has been said.....you were nice to chat to and rode at your own pace all weekend....which is what we should all do.
lukemillar
08-04-08, 12:31 PM
I`ve taken my time in deciding how to respond to this post because I couldn`t quite believe what I was reading when I logged on. All I can think is that you have somehow got the wrong end of the stick here and have totally over reacted.
First of all nobody was unhappy with your attendance at NW3 and I can`t understand why you`ve posted to that effect. You are always encouraged to join Border Patrol rideouts and welcomed as one of the gang.
As you full well know riders of all abilities are encouraged to join the rideouts and every provision is made for them. Mike did a fantastic job in organising NW3 and every allowance was made for riders who choose to ride at a slower pace and I include myself in that list of slower riders as I am also slowly regaining my confidence after an off. If you have received some feedback from NW3 then I think you should look at that as a positive thing. I too received feedback and I valued the input from other more experienced riders than myself. I put that feedback to good use and enrolled on a bikesafe course.
Yes I agree we all have different personalities.... some of us are extrovert, others more introvert. From what I saw people went out of their way to include you and show you friendship. I don`t know what else you expected people to do for you that wasn`t done for you that weekend.
I can`t believe you have posted this thread and feel quite strongly that you should have pm`d anyone you have a grievance with rather than giving people the wrong impression. NW3 was a huge success and I feel that you have now put the Border Patrol in a bad light and might deter new members from joining any future rideouts.
I`m not sure what you hoped to achieve by this thread but hope that whatever it is you`ve achieved it? you feel hurt and disappointed you say, I`m sure your hurt and disappointment doesn`t come close to the outrage some members of the Border Patrol are going to be feeling at reading your thread.
If my words seem harsh I apologise but I hope they convey the disappointment felt and personally I think this thread should now be closed.
Have you read any of the rest of the thread?? Seems like everyone has had kind words to say - both who were and weren't on the rideout.
plowsie
08-04-08, 12:33 PM
Have you read any of the rest of the thread?? Seems like everyone has had kind words to say - both who were and weren't on the rideout.
+1 to that, and most people are willing to help her also.
i blame plowsie, hes a bad un, so he is
trying to act all inocent with that halo in his avatar.
your not fooling anyone
;)
me, a glory hunter ? bah
Speedy Claire
08-04-08, 12:39 PM
Have you read any of the rest of the thread?? Seems like everyone has had kind words to say - both who were and weren't on the rideout.
Yes i have read the thread several times and thought carefully about how I should word my reply.
I am not going to post words of kindness when I strongly feel the whole thread is totally unwarranted. The members that were actually at NW3 seem to share the same opinion of surprise.
For anyone who feels the same way as Luke all I can say is were you there? did you see the allowances made for us slower riders? If you were then you`d understand the anger and disappointment and i`d add that very few riders from NW3 have actually posted so far.
I`m not going to post anymore on this subject... i`ve made my feelings known and expressed my opinion. Post what you like about my harsh words but you will not be getting any more replies from me.
I can only hope that this hassle doesn`t deter people from organising any more BP rideouts.
plowsie
08-04-08, 12:39 PM
Lol de-rail alert. I wasnt there!
Well, as if I wasn't feeling ****ty enough today, this thread has really topped it off.
I personally think it's a shame it was ever posted. All it has done is cast suspicion and I think it has been devisive.
I just hope this doesn't put Mike off organising any more rideouts, because he must be feeling pretty pig sick by now.
The members that were actually at NW3 seem to share the same opinion of surprise.
For anyone who feels the same way as Luke all I can say is were you there? did you see the allowances made for us slower riders? If you were then you`d understand the anger and disappointment and i`d add that very few riders from NW3 have actually posted so far.
...
I can only hope that his hassle doesn`t deter people from organising any more BP rideouts.
Claire, I strongly disagree actually. I think this is better aired in public.
For example, I can imagine how my comments to Dizzyblonde was of been 'chinese whispered' into what this thread has become. Only by airing grievances does an understanding happen.
I was there, and frankly, I'm happy Melody had the courage to post this thread. I suppose we'll have to agree to disagree :)
I organised NW1, and both me & Mike organised MW2. I'm certainly not put off organising another later (the main reason I didn't do anything for NW3 was due to work commitments, and a lacking home internet connection). Even so, Mike was offered help at pretty much every stage of the planning & prep.
In the words of Mike himself (paraphrasing I admit) "Lets not turn this into another AR08 fiasco by blowing everything out of the water."
In the words of Mike himself (paraphrasing I admit) "Lets not turn this into another AR08 fiasco by blowing everything out of the water."
+1
Jester666
08-04-08, 12:51 PM
Good on you Mel!
There is nothing worse than going on a rideout only to be made to feel unwanted.
Rideouts are for fun not seeing who is the fastest/bravest/most stupid.
I can't comment on the organisation of NW3 but LP is an experienced rider and has a level head (mostly ;-)).
The rideouts I've been on (AR07 and several oranised by Sid Squid) have all been fun because of the lack of "heroes". The Sid Squid rides usually descend into myself and Jambo 4rsing around at the back anyway! :lol: (Remember the sitting on the tank episode Jambo? :shock: :lol:)
I think its abit harsh to judge people on their riding skills on a rideout anyway. It's on the roads FFS. If you want to show off your god like skills take it to a track. I do!! :lol: Well I have to now that my licence is a bit tatty! I'm no riding god by the way :lol:
Anyway F' the bad mouthers and enjoy your riding at your pace. :thumbsup:
lukemillar
08-04-08, 01:00 PM
For anyone who feels the same way as Luke all I can say is were you there?e getting any more replies from me.
Erm, I think you missed my point.
It was simply in response to:
....doesn't come close to the outrage some members of the Border Patrol are going to be feeling at reading your thread
Reading this thread, I don't get the impression that anyone is outraged - well, apart from you.
Wasn't there so have no idea what this is all about.
I can only hope that this hassle doesn`t deter people from organising any more BP rideouts.
No it won't. I'm organising one for later in the summer, details to be posted in due course:D
yorkie_chris
08-04-08, 01:17 PM
Yes i have read the thread several times and thought carefully about how I should word my reply.
I am not going to post words of kindness when I strongly feel the whole thread is totally unwarranted. The members that were actually at NW3 seem to share the same opinion of surprise.
For anyone who feels the same way as Luke all I can say is were you there? did you see the allowances made for us slower riders? If you were then you`d understand the anger and disappointment and i`d add that very few riders from NW3 have actually posted so far.
The ride was seriously well set up to cater for all paces.
I too think this thread is pointless, but then again I have the social awareness of a brick and must have missed all this. I was there to ride my bike and have a laugh, if I wanted an episode of jerry springer I'd sit at home and watch it.
No-one (except for the TEC's, who volunteered) was "held up" as if you don't like someones pace, overtake, eventually you'll be at the front, mark a junction then get to hoon up to the front again.
Either mel is being overly sensetive about comments made with good intention, or someone's being a tart and backstabbing and bitching. Whichever it is, stop being a tit, it's annoying.
Anyway I'm off to the garage where I belong, rather than slinging $hit about a problem that isn't worth the stench.
gettin2dizzy
08-04-08, 01:27 PM
some sense..
Yeah, it's all a bit wet for me too ;)
Wasn't there so have no idea what this is all about.
No it won't. I'm organising one for later in the summer, details to be posted in due course:D
oh can i come please mister?? :o
So...
Bad vibes in response to bad vibes. Great solution.
Rather than a helpful "Oh, :lol: No Mel, it wasn't actually like that at all... :lol: There's been some misunderstanding!" it's a crack of the whip and a rapping of the knuckles to make her feel worse?
I dunno how many times I'm going to have to spout the word 'diplomacy' in my lifetime...
:confused:
petevtwin650
08-04-08, 02:13 PM
Right, my two pence worth.
I declined to be TEC because I thought Mels pace would be very slow. That is her decision and I'll fight for the right for her to join in on rideouts. However her riding does leave room for concern. It's not that's she is slow but that at times she is slow and dangerous. Several people have taken the time to chat to her and try and get them to follow their lines. Not because they are riding gods but to try and instill some confidence in the lass. I was hoping that with new tyres and lowered suspension she might have been a smidgen quicker or at least more confident, but she doesn't seem to improve at all.
I wish she would consider taking IAM or Rospa training.
Also I wish some of those who expressed different opinions on NW3 had been honest on this thread.
Those who have ridden with me will know that I like to go fastish, but that has never stopped me from encouraging new or inexperienced riders along on any ride that I have organised, including 125 riders.
It is a shame if peeps reading this thread are put off from joining future rideouts as the experience gained and fun derived can be immense.
slark01
08-04-08, 02:16 PM
Not commenting on what Mel has said, due to the fact my thoughts are not worth jack, however I will say.... met you twice Mel, liked you twice, oh and I still have your clutch lever :-)
Blue_SV650S
08-04-08, 02:29 PM
Not read any of the responses, I am not 100% sure what was said or by whom on/at/after the rideout. But the answer to me is clear Mel - don't go on rideouts with A-holes ;)
If you fancy a group ride, best if you select say 2 other like minded folk that are just happy to have a no pressure bimble and a quiet natter at rest points.
Personally I have no intention of going on a .org rideout (or any other rideout). Not only am I miserable get hated by everyone :oops:, but I have no interest in it really, I can't see what it is supposed to achieve, if I wanted to go for a ride I could do that myself, if I wanted to be social then I can't really do that riding a bike. If I wanted to meat other riders/bikers, I'd go to a bike meet!! ;)
Its safe to say that anyone grumbling about your pace probably has a small weener or if it was girls, a fat @ss!! :D
HTH
Several people have taken the time to chat to her and try and get them to follow their lines. Not because they are riding gods but to try and instill some confidence in the lass. I was hoping that with new tyres and lowered suspension she might have been a smidgen quicker or at least more confident, but she doesn't seem to improve at all.
I wish she would consider taking IAM or Rospa training.
Also I wish some of those who expressed different opinions on NW3 had been honest on this thread.
very well put Pete - I was TEC for most of Saturday and I share the same views as you do and I have tried to communicate those to Mel twice - once during the Hardy Bikers rideout and during NW3
during the NW3 weekend and especially while I was TEC on Saturday Mel had at least 2 very close calls!!
On an uphill turn and while Neio was marking the junction she went to it to slow and almost lost her balance and just managed to hold the bike without falling onto Neio's brand new zx636!!! Then on a downhill turn she went in with almost no speed and momentum which again caused her to lose balance and almost fall over.
I feel that her initial post is unwarranted. If information reached her in one way or another then she should have communicated with those inidividuals.
I have been on 2 rideouts and on both I received feedback from other riders. I've been riding for 12+ years and I will still listen with wide open ears to what other people have to say about my riding.
Sorry Mel but both times that I tried to speak to you about your riding I don't feel like you listened. I am not a riding god either but some things are pretty basic in order to survive on the road!
Blue_SV650S
08-04-08, 02:37 PM
Sorry Mel but both times that I tried to speak to you about your riding I don't feel like you listened. !
Did she ask for your opinion???
If someone came up to me an commented on my riding (without me asking for their opinion) it'd get my back straight up too, I certainly wouldn't listen!! :-P
I assume Mel was there to meet people and have a nice rideout, not to be met with critique over her already nervous riding. Its gonna be a bit like having a spot on the end of your nose and everyone saying 'Look at that big spot on your nose' (even worse if it is by people you don't know closely). You just don't want to hear it!! ;)
Did she ask for your opinion???
If someone came up to me an commented on my riding (without me asking for their opinion) it'd get my back straight up too, I certainly wouldn't listen!! :-P
I assume Mel was there to meet people and have a nice rideout, not to be met with critique over her already nervous riding. Its gonna be a bit like having a spot on the end of your nose and everyone saying ?Look at that big spot on your nose?. You just don?t want to hear it!! ;)
actually Blue mate she did say that she was uncomfortable with the way she was riding and she would like to improve
nobody is met with critique in any rideout that i've been to! So chill with all the wise guy ideas as I'm starting to get really F'd off with this thread and the amount of people that have an opinion while they were not there to see and experience the situations first hand!
Blue_SV650S
08-04-08, 02:54 PM
actually Blue mate she did say that she was uncomfortable with the way she was riding and she would like to improve
nobody is met with critique in any rideout that i've been to! So chill with all the wise guy ideas as I'm starting to get really F'd off with this thread and the amount of people that have an opinion while they were not there to see and experience the situations first hand!
So are you saying I should keep my opinions on other peoples business to myself ... that is a little ironic don't you think?!!? ;)
And this is an open forum after all ;)
Oh and clearly there was critique on the rideout, or was it just slagging off behind her back!?!? Coz that is ok innit! :D
I understand how these things (which you say have been said) could be hurtful, but to my mind rather than post publically, I would confront the people that you've been told said these things. In the end it's the only way you'd get to the bottom of this.
So are you saying I should keep my opinions on other peoples business to myself ... that is a little ironic don't you think?!!? ;)
And this is an open forum after all ;)
Oh and clearly there was critique on the rideout, or was it just slagging off behind her back!?!? Coz that is ok innit! :D
Where you on the rideout? Have you seen how Mel rides? Have you experienced the fear of seeing her falling down a verge 30ft? Have you felt worried that on the next turn she might just disappear and there will be nothing you can do?? I DON'T THINK SO!
So don't give me this kind of talk because you don't know how much support Mel receives during these rideouts. We help her turn the bike around, park it on gravel so that she doesn't slip, make sure she is OK, she has fuel, always ask if she needs any help!!
Slagging off behind her back??? Have you lost the plot??? It is genuine concern for a person that we have been out with a couple of times, who has had an off and all of the same people that were on NW3 were there to help her!!!
I've had enough of this cr@p!!! the fact that there is no single post from Mel on here must say something!!
The people that organised the rideout and assisted during the rideout do no deserve such treatment!!! I was TEC and I felt and feel worried and frustrated that certain riders will not take responsibility for their riding! You are not alone on the road! There are bikers behind you and infront of you.
Nobody is forced to ride above their limits! Hence why there is a TEC at the end of the day! You have a licence and a brain! Use it and choose if you wanna go fast or slow, with a death wish or without!!!
petevtwin650
08-04-08, 03:12 PM
Did she ask for your opinion???
If someone came up to me an commented on my riding (without me asking for their opinion) it'd get my back straight up too, I certainly wouldn't listen!! :-P
When you follow someone for a long period of time and they are doing things which are unnerving to say the least, eventually you have to say something constructive, if only to ease your own conscience.
This would be the same as if someone was riding like a **** and endangering other members of the rideout, eventually they would have to be talked to too.
I hate commenting on other peoples riding abilities. After all, who am I.
Speedy Claire
08-04-08, 03:13 PM
So are you saying I should keep my opinions on other peoples business to myself ... that is a little ironic don't you think?!!? ;)
And this is an open forum after all ;)
Oh and clearly there was critique on the rideout, or was it just slagging off behind her back!?!? Coz that is ok innit! :D
I said i wouldn`t post again but now quite frankly i`m well and truly ****ed off at having to read posts like this.
YOU WEREN`T THERE!!!! you didn`t witness the near misses..... I did but I`ll spare Mel the embarrassment and won`t post the details of the particular one i witnessed. I think that if somebody`s riding has the potential to become a liability then something should be said. What would you rather have.... friends who will turn a blind eye to your mistakes or friends who care enough to speak out because they don`t want to see you hurt as a result of a bike accident?
This is totally ridiculous.... somebody out of genuine concern tries to help Mel by giving her some constructive feedback. Mel, in turn, shoots that person in the back and starts a thread like this!!! WTF??? Mel admits she`s nervous and lacks confidence... she gives the impression she wants to improve yet somebody tries to help her and this is the thanks they get. This should be kept to PM`s and to spare Mel any further embarrassment I strongly suggest this thread be closed right now.
fizzwheel
08-04-08, 03:19 PM
I strongly suggest this thread be closed right now.
Tricky...
On one hand, brushing it under the carpet and ignoring it, wont make anybody a better rider, but it seems that to me now that you guys have been doing a stirling job in order to encourage, help and build up the confidence of your friend.
On the other hand, all these bad vibes arent exactly helping either are they.
On the other hand again.
If it were me riding poorly and putting myself at risk and those around me at risk I would expect to be told that I was doing so.
I think I'm going to lock this now. Any problems please PM me.
Ta
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