Thank you all for the help, this information is exactly what I needed.

I am planning to install a 2m/70cm mobile on a motorcycle. I looked on ARRL's site and in my antenna book for a way to calculate my MPE/safe distances so I know where to install the antenna; however, all of the tables and formulas are directed toward station MPE. What I really need to know is how to figure out how far away to put the antenna, since it will be paralell to my spine. I know "as far as you can" is the easy answer, but working out a ground plane,  or no ground plane install or other suitable mounting option is also a concern. I could also adjust the power output, but I dont know how to figure out what is safe. Help.

Try using the Commander Software for the VX7. I have the ADMS and Commander, the commander wins by a wide margin. There is an aftermarket program for the 8900 also, google FT 8900R and you should find it. You can also google VX-7R Commander to find that software. I run it on Vista with no problems.