rear lock
when I first started to ride I locked my rear brake a couple times braking for a red light, causing a skid. Pretty dangerous.
I lost a smidge of control w/ the front brake once, my rear did lift a little bit but I sure didn't skid!
I guess the only advice to offer is to take...
You guys and your expensive hobbies! I play Ultimate and Disc Golf, you could spend more on a picture of my FZ6 than I have on discs for the last 5 years!
I also cook, Alton Brown is my hero. Gourmet chef on a BMW!
The default question from tellers when I overpay at the bank for any loan is "do you want the surplus applied to the principal or next month's scheduled payment?"
Sounds like you need a new bank...
also consider
...going to your bank/credit union. If you have a good relationship with a banker they can save you a bunch of money.
Loans from your bank also (generally) upgrade your interest rates & depositor's benefits on checking/savings accounts.
Some banks give a discounted APR on...
scorpion
I love my scorpion EX400, I barely notice it at all when I ride. Helmet with a great fit for lunkheads like me that is also easy on your wallet.
For riders in Seattle, Seattle Cycle Center on hwy 99/Aurora is a great gear shop.
risers
Bought my FZ6 used from a guy who swore the 1" risers helped him. I haven't taken them off yet, its pretty natural with them in for me (6'1" 200#).