Today, images of motorcycles are practically everywhere--from McDonalds' take-out bags to Hallmark cards. The biker-themed television show "American Chopper" has brought motorcycles to the small screen, and even presidential candidate John Kerry made his entrance onto the stage of "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" on a motorcycle in November. Motorcycles are, indeed, hot right now, as they ride the wave of 11 years of consecutive growth in sales, according to Ty van Hooydonk, director of product communications for Discover Today's Motorcycling, a nonprofit organization that promotes motorcycling and safety.

As more people get interested in motorcycling there are more people interested in the artwork that portrays it. Realistic art that focuses solely on the bike appeals to people who ride or are involved in the lifestyle or business. Art that reflects the lifestyle or history of motorcycling, however, can have a larger fan base.

Artists who paint motorcycle themes say women buy just as much of their art as men, not only because women's ridership is increasing but also because they are often the ones decorating the home. They also buy the art as gifts for the motorcycling men in their lives.

The New Bikers

The 5.7 million motorcycle owners are not who they used to be. According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, in 1998 31 percent held professional or technical jobs, up from 19 percent in 1980. And, 33 percent earned more than $50,000 a year, up from less than 3 percent in 1980.

As a result, enthusiasts are willing to spend more money on motorcycle art. While originals that cost up to $60,000 can be sold easily by top artists in the niche, most clients are interested in a lower price point. "Limited editions and posters are most affordable," said watercolor artist William Perry, who started creating motorcycle art 30 years ago, shortly after he started riding. Most artists sell their limited-edition prints for $125 to $900. "Sculpture and original paintings are expensive and will only appeal to a small demographic," continued Perry.

Sculptor Mark Patrick has been a biker all his life and began sculpting motorcycles in bronze and resin 15 years ago. "If it is the right piece for the right person, people will pay $10,000 to $20,000," he said. "But people typically are willing to pay between $250 to $500."

Serious collectors of motorcycle art have often surpassed a mere passing interest in bikes. As a motorcycle enthusiast who owns 35 bikes, entrepreneur Dan Bishop began collecting motorcycle art about 15 years ago. He now has about 160 pieces, including originals from sculptor Mark Patrick and painters Eric Herrmann, Scott Jacobs and David Uhl. Bishop began collecting many of these artists before they were well known. "I always look for the up-and-coming artists with passion and a deep interest in motorcycles that is reflected on the canvas," he said.

Joining the Club

Artists who paint bikes or are inspired by them are usually bikers themselves. Their familiarity with the machines ensures that they deliver the realism that bike art buyers usually prefer. New artists looking to capitalize on the recent craze may not be bikers themselves, however. Those in the niche think it may be an important distinction. "Depending on what the artist wants to capture, it could help to know some aspects of riding and/or the lifestyle to capture 'that moment,'" said Perry. Herrmann added, "Motorcycle people know every nut, bolt and part on bikes, so you have to be technically correct or else you will look foolish."

Relatively new to the motorcycle art niche is painter and photographer Lesley "Fireweed" Gering. A rider since she was 10 years old, Gering regularly races and tests bikes. Six years ago, Gering took photos on a North American bike ride and decided to publish a coffee table book, "Women and the Art of Motorcycles." While the book is still a work in progress, Gering also has had several painting exhibits. Her latest show, titled "10 W 30," at the Sugar and Sugar Gallery in Vancouver, Canada, showcased 50 of her pieces featuring bras and motorcycle parts. The paintings were done with acrylic, lacquer and motorcycle oil. "I always end up integrating motorcycle parts [in my art]," said Gering. "I love the shape of the parts and pieces."

A motorcycle fan and a former bike owner, sculptor Bruce Gray created his first motorcycle-themed piece about eight years ago. In 2002, he finished an 800-pound motorcycle sculpture made of train parts. The life-size bike doesn't run, but now Gray is planning a new, rideable sculpture. While his 800-pound sculpture is priced at $25,000, he also has smaller pieces, including table-top sizes that are priced at about $200.

Tapping into the increasing popularity in motorcycle art, Wolfgang Publications in Stillwater, Minn., commissioned Herrmann to write a book about his art and the art of painting and drawing motorcycles. Wolfgang President Timothy Remus said lie senses a tremendous level of interest in this based on the success of similar books about cars. Released in March 2004, the 144-page "How to Paint & Draw Motorcycles" contains biographical information about Herrmann and details about the techniques and business.

With motorcycle technology leaping forward almost exponentially and sales figures leaving a long trail in black, it's only natural to ask, what's next?

Rather than bloviate ad nauseum about what we predict to be the future of powersports, we took the questions to the industry. No one has been spared our inquiring minds--manufacturer and aftermarket experts, former racers and generally guys who have been around long enough to provide some proper perspective. In gazing into their crystal balls, our targets sometimes agree, and sometimes they disagree. They are:

* Eric Anderson, founder of Scorpion Sports and a columnist for Dealernews

* Greg Blackwell, vice president of sales at Parts Unlimited

* Lee Edmunds, manager of motorcycle press at Honda

* Paul Golde, product development guru at Fairchild Sports

Dealernews: What major changes do you predict for alternative fuel and engine technology?

Edmunds: Honda R&D is at the leading edge of several exciting new technologies and recently announced the development of hybrid and fuel cell scooter prototypes.

Blackwell: I think we're seeing (alternative technology) in the automotive industry right now, and I think we're going to have a trickle-down effect in the future. I think we'll see a fair trend in that coming in the next five to 10 years in the motorcycle business.

Anderson: Electric-powered cycles are kind of a problem. The batteries are still heavy, and riding a cycle is all about balance.

I don't see hybrid motorcycles as any answer, so don't draw any conclusions from the automotive industry. It's going to be internal combustion engines for a while.

Golde: I don't see any of the hybrid technology trickling into two wheels since (most) motorcycle riders want cheap performance. Hybrid engines are neither.

What about changes in emissions technology?

Edmunds: Several of our street models already meet 2008 CARB (rules). As emissions controls have been made tighter, more emphasis has been placed on creating "50 state" engines that are clean-burning, without sacrificing performance.

Anderson: Emissions technology will get more and more stringent. The OEMs will comply because the technology is there, but then the aftermarket comes along and heavily modifies stuff. It all goes hand in hand.

Golde: EFI and catalysts would go a long way in reducing overall motorcycle emissions if it had widespread use on the street and off-road.

Are the problems with exhaust and noise ever going to go away?

Anderson: Honestly, noise is our biggest problem on the road, especially with unmuffled V-twins, and our biggest problem off the road. It's our biggest problem, period.

The problems come after the bike is sold, whether it's a big cruiser that's got tinkle tubes on it or a dirtbike that's going to have a little bit louder sound for what is perceived to be higher horsepower. Noise is our biggest challenge.

The aftermarket is going to have to take some responsibility here.

Golde: I would love to have local, county, state and federal governments start to enforce the federal noise control laws already on the books. Can you imagine how bad our quality of life would be if cars and trucks had the same percentage of modified exhausts as our industry does?

Off-road trails and even motocross parks are getting shut down because of excessive noise. Motorcycles today have plenty of power; we certainly don't need more noise.

Blackwell: I think the pressure is going to be on the OEs, and then on the aftermarket because the aftermarket guys are going to try to build something that is performance- oriented but makes less noise.

It can be done. Just like with any technology, you have to push these guys to the wall and they're going to come up with an angle.

Edmunds: Noise has become more and more of an issue, not only on the street, but off- road as well. ... If motorcycling is to continue to grow, we have to take a responsible approach to noise. Loud bikes will get off-road riding areas shut down.

What effect will rising fuel prices have, long term?

Edmunds: Hard to say exactly what the impact will be. Motorcycle sales have been increasing for 12 continuous years. There will be some new customers coming into the market because of the improved fuel mileage some of our vehicles have to offer.

Golde: I would hope that the general public finally has a complete change of mindset and makes a conscious decision to ride a fuel- and space-efficient motorcycle. I shudder at the thought of having to drive a car on a regular basis to work or wherever for errands. I love getting 40-plus mpg on a regular basis and being able to use the car pool lane by myself.

Blackwell: No matter what we ride--if it's got wheels and a motor, skis and a motor, or a hull and a motor--we're all wondering what's going to happen with rising fuel prices and the effect on the industry. I think we'll see some positive results for motorcycling because what you see are a lot of people saying, "You know what? I'm going to park my car and start riding my motorcycle to work."

You're cruising down your favorite country road on what started out to be a text-book-perfect day for riding. Without warning, the sky turns an ominous shade of grey. A huge menacing cloud , swollen and black, suddenly releases a torrent of rain. In a matter of moments you're drenched and shivering from the cold....

Like most seasoned bikers, I've been searching in vain for the the ideal rain-gear to protect myself from the elements without having to compromise on freedom of movement. Luckily a few months back, a friend, who is an avid horseback rider, turned me on to the perfect solution. The oilskin coat:

From it's humble beginning as the monsoon cape worn hundreds of years ago by sailors worldwide, Australian oilskin coats, jackets and pants have evolved into the emblem of those looking for the ultimate in harsh weather protection.

It all began in 1890 when a Scottish sailor by the name of Edward LeRoy discovered that torn sails from his ship could be recycled into long coats by treating the canvas material with a mixture of various oils. This transformed them into superb wet weather gear.

Word spread land-side about the effectiveness of LeRoy's coats in rain and cold, and settlers of the outback acquired this legendary waterproof material to protect themselves from the severe weather of the Australian Bush.

The oilskin coat was further adapted to life inland by adding an extension in the back of the garment to protect the seat of the horse rider's saddle, in addition to leg straps to keep the coat securely in place during strong wind, and sleeves that were extra long to protect the arms while extended.

Continuing on with this tradition, modern oilskin clothing is designed with the same wet weather-proofing techniques in mind.

Made of tightly woven 100% cotton that is infused with a unique natural oil based formula, oilskin apparel offers maximum defense against snow, wind, and rain. Oilskin coats, jackets and pants provide an impenetrable water barrier that keeps you bone dry and able to keep riding, even through the heaviest rain.

Unlike many synthetics this material also has a very natural feel, and offers excellent breath-ability, allowing body moisture to escape, ensuring the driest ride possible.

The drawstring waist and gusseted rear vent enables you to slip the jacket over the back so water runs off the bike, leaving your seat dry. Snap together straps also secures the coat around your legs when the wind kicks up.

And since the oil blend is not water soluble, any incidence of water touching the fabric simply runs off, ensuring total weather protection for motorcyclists who need to stay warm and dry, even under the most challenging conditions.

Motorbikes are considered heartthrobs in the automotive world. Bikes are conventional and normal bikes are used by ordinary, middleclass people who can not afford to buy themselves a car. It would not be an over statement that 90 percent of people who step into their professional lives and start earning buy a motor bike as a means of transportation. They can take their feet off the ground and flutter away on their vehicles.

These motorcycles are economical in many ways. Some third world countries have stared producing their local scooters and bikes so that almost any person who manages to save a little amount of money can afford a scooter easily.

This goes for countries that are on their way towards development. Motor bikes are not hard to assemble and there are people who have managed to build their very own bikes.

It does not consume as much fuel as cars do and they can easily adjust themselves between cars in the parking lot!

It is hard to categorize bikes because now the ordinary Yamahas are beginning to come in the markets with the same features as those of trail or heavy bikes. Not exactly the same but a lot of features are being installed in all kinds of bikes. They are now more comfortable and smooth to ride on.

Bikes are of numerous types. An ATV drift has become dominant over the past few years. In ATV there is a raptor 700R GYTR edition it's key features are much more advanced. It is appealing for bike lovers as it has special graphics system, all new skid plates and more powerful engine that can make this bike race in all sorts of riding environments. It is capable of riding smoothly in deserts, dunes and even thick woods. It is basically a sports bike and it is used in bike racing and over the years it has earned the reputation of the best racer in the world.

Such bikes are expensive and belong to the sporting world. They used to be rather plain featured as we have seen the trail bikes that come with extra shocks and special wheels. The latest bikes have no comparison; they are a complete package. Their bodies are light weight; they have bigger, smoother, comfortable cushion seats. And their over all performance is much more satisfying than people could imagine. Motorbikes are a joy to ride.

You've got a great black leather jacket but it needs a little bit of pizzazz. Why not add a little bit of personal touch to your jacket with a some patches. Start by deciding what your style in motorcycle patches is.

Most of the apparel you purchase is heavy on the pocket book but these patches can provide some great value for as little as a buck. Now what you can buy these days for so little. You can choose from many different styles to choose from almost all within your budget.

Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

1. Group Patches

Carolina, Zuba, Crowz, Indian, Night Feeders, Blue Knights, and Valkyrie to name just a few. Choose your group or team and wear the badge proudly. You pick. It will look great on your jacket.

2. Flag Patches

Whether you are American, Canadian, or of another nationality there are flag patches to choose from that will look great on your jacket. Support your country or support a variety of countries. Love your country? Show it!

3. Military Patches

There are hundreds of thousands of military people around the world and you should be proud of it. Whether you are directly in the military or from a military family why not show your support by wearing one of the many patches available.

4. Harley Patches

There are many licensed Harley Davidson patches available and the selection is great. Choose the traditional Harley logo or one of their many different looks. Which ever you pick will look great on your jacket.

5. Christian Patches

Show Jesus loves you as you cruise down the road. There are some great Christian patches to choose from so be sure to check them all out. One of them is certainly right for you.

6. Skull Patches

Want to set an image? Have some fun? Why not add a couple of skull patches to your jacket. There are all kinds of single and double skull patches to choose from. Some are fun and others are freaky. Let your colors show.

7. Biker Saying Patches

Biker patches is a rather generic term but it incompasses patches that have slogans relating to biking such as "Hell on Wheels, or Erotic Angel." There are hundreds of great slogans that you can choose from so pick your poison and wear it like a badge of honor.

8. Dog Patches

Are you a hound lover? Got a favorite dog breed? Then why not display it on your jacket. And besides just plain ole dog patches there are some great slogans attached to some of these. Be sure to check it out.

9. Fun Patches

Now that's another really broad term isn't it. But fun is fun and it's ever so personal. There are at least a couple of hundred if not more to choose from so have some fun and pick the one that's perfect for you then wear it proudly.

You've spent a great deal of money on all those accessories including your helmet. But now you need to keep it safe while you are away from it. You can accomplish that with a motorcycle helmet lock or gear lock. Here are just a few to check out.

Using the factory helmet lock is tough enough but if you have two helmets then it's impossible. There are several systems available on the market that will accommodate two helmets and secure your helmets much better than the factory systems.

1. Kewl Metal Chrome Helmet Lock

This fits the Kuryakyn ISO grips and it only takes a couple of minutes to bolt on. Works with the throttle boss too. It's also reasonably priced which makes it a great pick.

2. OnGuard Beast Pad Lock With Chain

This is one of the strongest on the market with the dual lock deadbolt that has the best holding power on the market. The M cylinder means it can't be picked and it can't be drilled. Each lock comes with 4 laser keys. This lock won't let you down and for what you get it's priced very reasonable.

3. Aeromach Saddlebag Locks

These locks have recently been modified to make them even more secure than they've been in the past. They are made from carved billet aluminum and they are easy to install. A simple solution to a problem.

4. Kuryakyn Universal Helmet Lock

The chrome lock mounts to 7/8" to 1 ¼" bar with a flexible coil cable gives you plenty of flexibility. Designed to use daily and last longer than many of the competitions.

5. Kryptonite Disc Lock

This will prevent your disk lock from being engaged. It's flexible and coiled cable will keep things nice and secure. And to make sure you don't try to ride off yourself with the lock in place a flashing LED will remind you the lock is in place. It's a slick system that works well to keep your bike safe and sound.

6. Kryptonite New York 3000

This model is even stronger than the last with the ultimate in U locks. It's designed for high traffic and high theft areas. Made from kryptonite with a steel shackle that will resist even the most serious molt cutter pro. This is the perfect motorcycle lock and you won't be disappointed with its performance. In fact you'll be glad you invested in it the first time it does its job.

Whether you are looking to lock your helmet, your gear, or the motorcycle itself there are plenty of different lock choices on the market. In fact there are so many that it can become a bit overwhelming.

Start by deciding what locks it is you need. Then do your research online and do your price comparisons too. You can save a great deal of money by shopping online and the selection is endless.

The proper and responsible use of motorcycle helmets by all motorcyclists will dramatically reduce fatalities in motorcycle accidents. Hence, some states make them mandatory for all motorcyclists.

All motorcycle helmets conform to certain standards set by the DOT. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard describes in detail the DOT requirements, which are mandatory and binding for all helmets. Helmets which meet the DOT regulations usually have a DOT approval sticker on the back of the helmet.

The Snell Memorial Foundation provides an additional certification or approval for motorcycle helmets. However, it is optional.

In 1975, almost all states had mandatory helmet laws for everyone. But due to Congressional influence, many states removed or weakened their laws. Today, 20 states and the District of Columbia have made helmet wearing mandatory for motorcyclists; four states have no helmet laws at all. Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire are the four which make helmet-wearing optional. Another 19 states have helmet laws that do not apply to adult riders.

The limited helmet laws are usually based on the assumption that older and experienced drivers don?t need helmets. These states only require them for young people.

Statistics show that reduced helmet use has increased motorcycle deaths over the years. Deaths have shot up by 60%. The Fatality Analysis Reporting System shows that helmet use among the fatally injured was less than 50%, and that fatalities and deaths are much more common among those above the age of 40. Research shows that head injuries are the most common cause of motorcycle deaths.

The tire is considered one of the most important parts of a motorcycle. Investing in tires is something that shouldn't be taken lightly. Buying the cheapest tire is not always advisable, as tires are subjected to a lot of wear and tear, with durability depending on the maintenance and condition of the tire.

If you do intend to buy the cheapest motorcycle tires for your motorcycle, a trusted source to consult would be the dealer from whom you purchased your bike, or your mechanic. Neither stands to gain from the motorcycle tire you buy. You could also look up information in tire guides, magazine reviews and sites to find out if it is worth paying so much for those tires.

When buying cheaper motorcycle tires, determine the right brand for your tire choice by looking at the tires being used by other motorcyclists. The most commonly used tire would be the best choice for you. You could also check up what tire your user manual recommends, and buy the recommended tire for your motorcycle. When buying the cheapest motorcycle tire, check its performance level, wet grip ability, load carrying capacity, and amount of tread left in it.

If any of this is not up to standards, then there is no use buying the cheapest motorcycle tires. There is no point in buying the cheapest motorcycle tires if you will later have to spend money on repairs. Price may be a critical factor when buying motorcycle tires. However, there are many financing options available nowadays that can be used to buy new tires while lightening the financial burden. So consider these points before buying those cheap motorcycle tires.

Leather has been and continues to be a favorite for motorcycle jackets. Classy, beautiful, and functional, it is available in different shapes, styles, and sizes.

Hundreds of companies exist which provide high-quality and beautiful leather jackets for men and women. Some popular brands that make high-quality leather motorcycle jackets include AXO, Alpinestars, Shift, Carroll, Joe Rocket, Fieldsheer, Firstgear, Milwaukee, Ride Gear, Bike Week Leathers, Vanson Leathers, and Jamin Leather, among others.

Usually leather jackets are made of cow or buffalo hides. Special tanning makes them soft and comfortable. Leather jackets come in either ‘waist-length’ or ‘three-quarter-length’ sizes. Some jackets are also custom-made by companies like Classic Motorcycle Jackets, among others.

Jackets range from about $90 to $500. Some companies provide valuable discounts which allow us to have huge savings. Most leather jackets of leather usually come in limited colors like black or tan; however, some unusual ones like ‘MJ 500 O orange double-stripe’ and ‘MJ 500 S silver double-stripe’ are available at Barney’s Leather at $99.99.

All the aforementioned companies provide excellent quality leather motorcycle jackets. Some of them offer 100% satisfaction guarantees and have refund or exchange policies. Companies like Leather Up, Eagle Leather, and Ride Gear offer such exchange policies. Fox Creek Leather offers a lifetime guarantee on all its jackets, which are made of high-quality leather.

Although shipping usually costs extra, some companies like Fox Creek Leather, Legendary USA, the Bikers’ Den, and Only Leather Jackets offer free shipping.

Leather motorcycle jackets serve many important functions. A protective barrier against cold, wind, water, and other injuries and scratches, they are a must for all motorcyclists.