[dhgeyer]

Yes, you're not that far from the section of 11 that splits from following 81, and goes along the Susquehanna River. I've been down that stretch (and back) 3 times since '04. On 3 different bikes, too! Not sure about this year - Winter seems to be coming in faster than usual. I'll ride in anything unless there is snow/slush/ice on the roads. I worry about being too far from home and stuck in a snowstorm. If not this year, I'll definitely do a trip South in the Spring. I haven't in a couple of years, and I'm overdue.

We in NH are blessed to live in some of the best riding country in the world, as are you. I was surprised to learn that NH has the highest per capita motorcycle ownership in the country. We have a strong state organization, and of course bike week at Laconia focuses attention on riding. You must also have a strong state organization, since the helmet law was partially repealed a few years ago. Not that I suggest riding without one, but that political action tends to indicate a solid state rights organization.

Congratulations on your mountain, and on your personal victory in getting on a bike. I think you will find a couple of things in time. One is that the muscles you need to build up for riding will get built up by riding. I call them my "motorcycle muscles", and they tend to get out of condition if I lay the bikes up for the Winter. I don't always put them away. Some years I ride right through the Winter, any day the roads are clear and it gets above 20 degrees. The other thing that you will discover is that the longer you ride, the less strength you will need. It becomes more about skill and balance. I've seen some pretty small women handle those Harleys, ones that could get their toes down, but not flatfoot. I'm not saying it's a great idea, but it can be done. Several of the women in my local club ride or have ridden Sportsters, some of which I believe have been lowered.