Automotive Motorcycles

Is Your Motorcycle Safe To Ride? How Do You Know?

2007-02-28T01:43:00.001-08:00

The importance of a motorcycle safety check-over can never be stressed enough. Not enough riders are aware of how to perform a proper inspection or when to do it. There are two types of safety checks that I recommend. The daily and the bi-weekly check over.

The daily check over is the inspection you give your motorcycle prior to each ride. Before you get on your bike, start with a walkaround inspection. Visually scan the motorcycle for anything out of place. Look for missing hardware, loose components, or broken lenses. This might sound silly, but items frequently loosen and break due to a motorcycles' vibrations. Are the tires visibly low on air? Are there any obstructions in or around the wheels? During the walkaround I always like to squat for a second at each wheel. I consider the tires, wheels, brakes and drivetrain to be the most important parts to check and like to get a closer look at each. Once the walkaround is complete, check the fuel level, and your motorcycle's safety equipment. This should include all lights, switches, turn signals, and horn. Adjust your mirrors, helmet and eye protection. If you have completed all of this you're ready to ride. If you complete this before every ride, you are helping to insure that every ride is a safe ride.

The bi-weekly check over is recommended for the normal daily rider. If you ride more or less, adjust your intervals accordingly. The purpose of this inspection is to monitor normal wear items that may expire or need adjustment between regular services. The most common components are the tires, brakes, drive train, battery and engine oil. Most owners manuals have instructions for checking and adjusting each of these items. If yours doesn't or you need further information purchase a repair manual, a valuable resource for any motorcyclist.

You already visually check your tires before each ride, but now is when you check and adjust the pressures. Use a good quality gauge and while you are down there, look closely for any cracking or bulges. Take note of the remaining tread depth.

Motorcycle brake pads are designed to last as long as normal service intervals. The reality is, the rate of wear depends more on riding style and conditions than a set mileage. It is imperative that they be checked regularly between normal service intervals. For this, grab a bright flashlight and consult your manual for wear specifications.

The typical motorcycle drive train consists of a chain and two sprockets. The sprockets rarely fail between services, but the chain is constantly stretching and in need of lubrication. The motorcycle needs to have it's rear wheel off the ground to properly lube and adjust the chain. With a centerstand or rear stand, a few tools and proper specs., any motorcyclist should be able to service their own chain. In doing this, the life of the chain and sprockets will greatly increase while the chances of failure will decrease.

Most riders assume that their motorcycle charging system maintains the battery sufficiently. Ideally this is true, but its not always the case. The majority of battery usage occurs when starting your motorcycle. Short trips may not always allow your battery enough time to fully recharge. Add in a few accessories like a radio, heated vest or a GPS and your battery may always be lagging. If you are not regularly plugging your motorcycle into a battery tender, consider giving it a charge at this bi-weekly inspection.

All motorcycles consume oil at slightly different rates. It is important to keep an eye on the level. Consult your owners manual for the proper checking procedure. This can vary widely between models.

Finally, make sure you pass inspection as well. Is all of your riding gear in good shape? Is your vehicle registration up to date and your insurance policy current? Proper preparation and a little preventive maintenance can go far in increasing the safety and enjoyment of riding your motorcycle.

How-to-Tie Down A Motorcycle

2007-02-28T01:42:00.001-08:00

Many motorcyclists find themselves with new dilemmas that they have probably never experienced in the past. One of these is trying to tie down their bike which allows them to transport their expensive motorcycle safely. However, there are only a few tried and true methods to make sure a motorcycle can be transported without any issues.

Here is a list of basic equipment needed for securing a motorcycle for transportation/hauling: (4) high strength/good quality ratchet straps (2) ratchets and (2) cam buckle straps will do, however the preferred method is via (4) ratchet straps), and (4) soft loops. (Soft loops are special straps that keep the hooks of your cam/ratchet straps away from your bike to prevent scratching during the trip.)

Please note, when purchasing your straps please pay close attention to buckle section as it should be a nice strong metal with the preferred tooth style strap gripping plate. Now that you have the required items begin the tie-down process as outlined below.

Step 1: Once bike is in the truck or trailer, wrap soft loop around base of Left handle bar and place hook end of strap through soft loop and secure other hook of strap to secure spot in truck or trailer, pull slack out of strap and ratchet a few times, repeat for Right handle bar.

Step 2: Once both Ratchet straps are in place, tighten each snugly so that bike will sit in the upright position on its own. BE SURE TO NOT COMPRESS THE FRONT FORKS, SERIOUS DAMAGE MAY OCCUR TO SUSPENSION OF BIKE (see owners manual).

Step 3: Now for the rear of the bike. Find a stable member of the bike and wrap soft loop around and secure in same fashion as front (because each bike is a little different there is not just one specific spot to wrap the soft loop.)

Step 4: Periodically check tightness and condition of straps and load before and during trip, to ensure stability.

Step 5 Optional: The use of a wheel chock is a great security feature for your bike. If you choose to use one position straps so that they are pulling the bike in the forward position against the wheel chock.

What Can A DD Motorcycle Exhaust Do For You

2007-02-28T01:41:00.000-08:00

DD motorcycle exhausts are very popular aftermarket exhausts with many bikers. D&D was started in 1972 by David Rash after he made an exhaust for his own bike. Well, 30+ years later, the technology has greatly improved, but the basic idea remains--the D&D exhaust is a high quality, high performance exhaust.

DD motorcycle exhausts have 3 main components:
1. First, you have the headpipe, which bolts to the head and funnels all the gases out of the engine. That empties into...
2. The midpipe: this is where design is very critical for maximum flow.
3. Finally, you have the silencer, which muffles the sound and sparks. D&D offers several types and styles of silencers to suit individual needs.

Typically, an aftermarket motorcycle exhaust is an easy and affordable way to get improved performance from your bike. In addition to performance, you also get a look and sound that makes your bike unique.
Some things you should consider before buying a DD motorcycle exhaust:
o How the exhaust mounting system is going to affect the rear footpegs. Some systems require their removal, which means no more riding with a passenger.
o Performance: the thought of bolting on a no-name, big-bore motorcycle exhaust might sound good, but if the exhaust wasn't tested and tuned, chances are you'll actually hurt your horsepower. Try to get a dyno sheet on a particular exhaust that compares stock to the new exhaust to make sure you're getting extra horses for your money.
o Check your carb jetting. It may sound odd, but the carbs are jetted to work with the stock exhaust, so when you change the exhaust, the carb should be adjusted accordingly. Most shops can do this inexpensively, so don't skimp on this step.

Are You Ready For Your Motorcycle Track Day? Part I

2007-02-28T01:40:00.001-08:00

Motorcycle track days have become wildly popular events, allowing motorcyclists to ride their motorcycles to the limits in a controlled environment. This is much safer than carving up the local public roads, but it takes the effort of the participants and track day organizers to insure that each track day is as safe as possible. Everyone involved should be aware of their responsibilities regarding rider and motorcycle preparation.

Regarding rider preparation, all track days require the same basic personal safety gear. Leather motorcycle suit, proper motorcycle helmet, gauntlet gloves and boots that cover the ankles. Most track day organizers will examine each participant’s gear and helmet when they check in. Proper rider safety, however, is ultimately the responsibility of each rider. One thing that’s hard for track day organizers to examine is the mental and physical fitness of each rider.

The morning rider briefing should make mention of rider fitness, but it’s up to everyone to monitor their own condition at all times throughout the day.

•Get plenty of sleep the night before and eat a good breakfast in the morning.

•Riding a motorcycle on the track is physically demanding. Stretch in the morning to warm up.

•Riding a motorcycle on the track is mentally demanding as well. Focus on the task at hand.

•When you aren’t on the track stay in the shade and get some rest, even catch a nap during lunch.

•Don’t feel like you have to ride in all of your sessions. By the end of the day, those twenty minute sessions will have added up to two hours on the track.

Fatigue and dehydration are leading causes of track day accidents. Stay alert and aware of your condition at all times. Don’t ride beyond your abilities and pull in early if you feel tired or begin making mistakes.

Proper rider preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable track day. Track day motorcycle preparation is just as important. Check back soon for Part II about properly preparing your motorcycle for the track.

Trust Your Instincts to Stay Safer

2007-02-28T01:39:00.000-08:00

Discussing intuition doesn't sound very scientific, but I’ll bet that a lot of veteran riders will agree that developing a good sense of when to trust your instincts is an integral part staying safer out there.

As a newer ride, I first bought a Honda 250 to learn on. It was a perfect starter bike—small, easy to ride, confidence inspiring. And I rode it a lot.

One summer afternoon, I convinced the bosses that it was a crime for me to remain at work any longer that day. After pleading my case and counting the number of Saturdays I’d logged over the winter, they sprung me, and at 2:00 pm I headed out for a nice long ride along the shores of Lake Ontario.

Everything was perfect: the sun was high and warm, the lake kept the temperature at a very pleasant 80 degrees. Traffic was light, and I settled into a very comfortable ride, enjoying the speed and the scenery and the feeling that I was getting to play hooky for the afternoon.

My trip out was uneventful. I hit the little town of Sodus, NY, and got purposely lost on the many back roads around the little town until I managed to find my way back there by dinner time. After a enjoying great burger on a deck overlooking the bay I decided to head back for home.

I took a slightly different route back, not wanting to bore myself with the same ride home as I had taken out. This route hit several more small towns and villages than my ride out, so, of course, there were many more stop lights and intersections to be handled.

About three quarters of the way home I ended up missing second gear after taking off from a stoplight not just once but three separate times. Sure I was a newer rider, but even I could manage to shift from 1st to 2nd with reasonable ease. Something just wasn’t right.

But I got through most of the other stops without trouble, so I paid no attention to my gut and kept riding.

However, a few stoplights from home I was forced to pay attention to my gut. I attempted to downshift as I approached a light, and panicked more than just a little when I couldn’t find the shifter. I quickly realized it had come detached from the bike! Luckily there was no one in front or behind me, and I could simply slow down, stop, and walk the bike to the side of the road.

Had I listened to my gut earlier, I would have pulled over and inspected the bike. Missing those shifts was weird, and caused my instincts to prickle. I thought the shifter felt a little funny, but I just pressed on anyway. If I had pulled over, I would have noticed that one of the bolts that attaches the shifter to the frame was starting to work itself loose. My little Honda 250 buzzed like a swarm of angry bees at speeds above 60 mph. After several hours of that kind of workout my hands and feet would go numb from the vibration. The 250 was not meant to be a touring bike. And just as I was being jostled and vibrated, so was every component on the bike. Nuts and bolts were literally working themselves loose, and my shifter was the first (and luckily, last) thing to go.

My missing shifter was what it took for me to listen to the voices that were saying “Something is wrong. Pull over.” I should have listened way sooner, and I’m glad I get to tell this story and not one that involves something more serious, like crashing.

Other riders report times when they simply abandon a ride because “they just don’t feel right” about it. I myself have since done the same thing. Not because anything concrete presented itself, but just because my gut said “Go home.”

Suffice it to say I listen to my inner voice more now. I’ve learned to trust my instincts not just when they tell me something is wrong, but also when they tell me everything is fine, too.

How To Get Approved For A High Risk Motorcycle Loan And Financing

2007-02-23T21:36:00.002-08:00

Are you in the market for a motorcycle, but have bad credit and need a high risk motorcycle loan? Well don’t worry the goal of this article is provide you everything you need to know about getting approved for a high risk motorcycle loan.

First you must understand how motorcycle lenders go about classifying you as high risk. On the average, when a motorcycle lender is looking to approve any motorcycle financing they have a much higher cut off in the credit score range than an auto lender. This exists whether you have good or bad credit.

So with that said an auto lender may approve a FICO credit score of 610 as not a high risk, but a motorcycle lender would most likely classify a FICO credit score of 610 as a high risk motorcycle loan and may not offer an approval on it.

There are two reasons for this:

1. Motorcycles are much harder to repossess in good condition than an automobile. As a result of this simple fact, if you default on your motorcycle loan it is a higher risk to the motorcycle lender than an automobile lender because it is much harder to repossess a motorcycle in good condition than a car.

With all the new motorcycle riders entering the industry there is a high incident of some form of minor or major damage on many motorcycles, which translates in to a lower amount per unit a lender gets when they repossess a motorcycle for a customer that chooses to get bad credit over paying for their motorcycle loan. The damage could be from the repossession agency or the actual owner but the simple fact is motorcycle fetch much less at repossession auctions than automobiles.

This simple fact is one reason good and poor credit motorcycle loans are offered at much higher interest rates than a car and has an overall lower approval percentages when compared with cars.

2. The average motorcycle tends to depreciate very fast. Since motorcycles have higher accident rates and there are many people who once they crash do not pay off their loan, this results in higher defaults for motorcycle lenders. This is another reason motorcycle loan rates are higher and motorcycles are hard to get approved for.

Ok, now that you have a background in how a motorcycle lender views a motorcycle loan, let’s look at how you can get approved for a high risk motorcycle loan.

Step one is to really understand your credit report and credit score. Sure if you are looking for high risk motorcycle financing, you probably have had some credit issues in the past. But you never know how those credit issues played out on your credit report until you get a copy of it.

Take a look and make sure everything reported on your credit report is actually true. See every year 1000s of people just like you find creditors made errors on their credit report, which negativity impacted their credit score. If your FICO score shows a 610, but there is 1 error on your credit report you could easily raise your FICO credit score to 625 or higher by getting the error fixed. Always get errors fixed on your credit report before you submit a high risk motorcycle loan application.

Step two is to clean up your credit card debt. I know you are probably thinking I can not do this, but it can make a huge difference in helping you get approved for high risk motorcycle financing. See motorcycle lenders do not like to see your personal credit cards maxed out. Therefore, before you submit your application for motorcycle financing you should try to pay down your credit card debt. Even if you have to do it for the short term it can help you tremendously with getting approved.

For instance, if you have a 610 FICO credit score you will probably be declined if you have all your credit cards maxed out. However, if you are able reduce your credit card debt by 50% you stand a much better chance of getting approved for a high risk motorcycle loan. This is a simple concept but you will be surprised by how many motorcycle buyers fail to do this and never get approved.

Step three and the final step is too finally submit your motorcycle loan application. There are many lenders that specialize in high risk motorcycle loans. I recommend tying about 2 or 3 online motorcycle lenders and then move to your local credit unions or financing provide by the dealership such as Suzuki Finance, Honda Financing, Kawasaki Credit Card or the Polaris Star Card.

How To Get A Used Motorcycle Loan

2007-02-23T21:36:00.001-08:00

The world of used motorcycle loans is traditionally confusing to many motorcycle buyers involved with purchasing a used motorcycle but it does not have to be if you are equipped with a bit of knowledge.

When looking for used motorcycle financing, you should first consider where you will purchase the motorcycle from. For instance, will you purchase from a dealer, an individual or a vehicle auctions?

This could highly affect your used motorcycle loan decision and the direction you will choose to focus your energy with getting your loan worked out.

Here are some things to consider with each option:

1. Auction Purchase: If you are thinking of purchasing your used motorcycle at an auction it is highly recommend that you have your cash ready to buy ahead of time. Therefore, if you are going to finance the used motorcycle from the auction you will need to line up the financing first as most auctions do not offer financing.

There are several online motorcycle lenders offer used motorcycle loans, so this is a good option. Basically these motorcycle lenders will approve you online and then send you a check for the amount you are approved for to purchase your motorcycle.

Another option for your auction purchase may be to get check your local credit union for used motorcycle loans. Sometime the credit union may offer it under a personal loan but it is all the same.

2. Individual Purchase: An individual purchase will work similar to an auction purchase.

You will need cash in hand to make the purchase so you will have to line up your used motorcycle financing first before the actual purchase. Online motorcycle lenders or your local bank and credit union can help you with this and send you a cashier’s check.

Most individuals prefer a cashiers check or money order so be sure to ask them before you drive all the way to their house to make the purchase.

3. Dealer Purchase: With a dealer purchase you will have a variety of options for used motorcycle loans.

You can still choose to use online motorcycle lenders as they tend to have highly competitive motorcycle loan rates or you can use the dealerships financing. They can get you approved fast and money in your hand in 24 hours typically so making the purchase is simple. You will not have to go to the dealer and wait an hour while they do all the paperwork.

Dealers normally offer consumer financing through GE Capital (AKA GE Money) or HSBC Retail Services which is an option as well. These offers could be on a credit card or a standard installment loan and you motorcycle loan rate will be based on your credit history.

Don’t forget about your credit union and local banks as they can handle dealer purchased as well.

In the end financing a used motorcycle does not have to be difficult, you can easily use online motorcycle lenders for used motorcycle loans at competitive rates or even choose a dealer or local credit union. Online motorcycle lenders may prove to be the best option because you can arrange them in the comfort of your own home without waiting hours in a bank or dealer.

Take Responsibility And Wear A Motorcycle Helmet

2007-02-23T21:35:00.002-08:00

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), when comparing a automobile to a motorcycle rider the motorcycle rider has a 35 percent greater chance of getting hurt or dying in a automobile accident compared to a driver in a automobile. When wearing a helmet it is less likely that the motorcyclists will receive a serious head injury and more likely to survive the accident according to the The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Safety helmets for motorcycle users are the law in many states, optional in others. Especially so if the helmet is rated for safety and is properly fit to the wearer. Safety is what it's all about right.

When wearing a motorcycle helmet it will protect your head against the following, it protects your face, your ears and you are able to have an intercom system to talk to others. A helmet protects your head and your face from injuries. There are many different types of helmets ranging from helmets that have a face guard and helmets that have an open face so you can feel the wind on your face, helmets can be customized to your specifications. Looking for full face helmets can be a challenge. On helmets the face shield can retract by lifting up and down.

Because Motorcycles lack the protection of other vehicles, such as a car or truck, severe injury is much more likely. For comfort and protection they generally have fabric and foam interiors. Motorcycle helmets act as a protection device for your head.

When looking at helmets to purchase don’t let the price determine which helmet you will purchase, you will need to look at the protection factor it can provide and how it is rated. Helmet design considerations are all about the tolerable impact the head can handle, which the soft linings provide as protection, and the exterior protection from punctures.

When trying on a helmet press down on the helmet and make sure that it fits properly and it feels comfortable and check to see if it surrounds your entire head. Before putting a helmet on a child, it is a good idea to check for defects such as cracks, loose padding, frayed straps or exposed metal that could be unsafe for the child.

Even if you don’t choose to wear a motorcycle helmet for safety reasons, there are other reasons. With many designs and makers to choose from, you would surely have your hands full finding one that you will like. There are a lot of motorcycle helmets you can choose from. The designs are made to match the likings of the women to provide more appeal.

Safety helmets successfully reduce the chances of head injury to a great extent. For instance, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated in a report that if you do not wear a helmet there is a 40% chance that the rider will suffer a head injury and a 15% chance of it being a fatal head injury.

Motorcycle Sound Systems: What Is The Right System For You?

2007-02-23T21:35:00.001-08:00

Motorcycle sound systems have come a long way in the past couple of years. We all like to hear the wind and rumble of our bikes, but if we are riding for a few hours it's nice to hear some tunes to help the miles roll by.

In the past the choices for motorcycle sound systems have been somewhat limited. Bulky am/fm radios with less-than-spectacular speakers often provided more grief and inconsistent reception than they were worth.

Well, that has changed for the better with the modern electronic revolution. With the advent of i-pods, satellite radio, and MP-3 players, the music of our choice is more available than ever.

The current offerings of sound systems vary widely but most offer better performance than even the top of the line models of just a few years ago.

There are several things to consider when looking at motorcycle sound systems. The ability to plug in your MP-3, satellite radio, and i-pod provides a lot more flexibility in your sound system.

Typically, if you are going on a road trip outside of your usual haunts your standard am/fm radio will be losing channels and you'll need to search for more.

If your sound system incorporates the new technologies you'll be able to listen to your favorite tunes for miles and miles without monkeying around with channel surfing.

Another advancement is the sound delivery system. Gone are the old speakers that strained to deliver clear, crisp sound at 60 mph. New external speakers are driven by small yet powerful amps that deliver clear crisp sound at any speed.

Another excellent advance is the in-helmet audio. The current offerings provide an excellent sound with no external speakers to clog up space on your bike.

Whatever system you choose, just keep in mind that technology will be constantly advancing so if you can get a system that is flexible it will allow you to upgrade as new technologies become available.

Bajaj Kristal Review

2007-02-23T21:34:00.000-08:00

Bajaj returns….

The launch of bajaj kristal

The win over Hero Honda (remains the market leader in 100cc segment) in 125cc (with Bajaj discover) and 150cc (with Bajaj pulsar) motorcycle (geared ones) segment does not come without a compromise for Bajaj, it loss it’s scooterette market (once Bajaj Chetak was known as scooter of India) to Honda activa and Hero Honda pleasure. Bajaj is set to regain the scooterette market with Kristal and Blade.

Can Kristal meet its peers?

Honda entered the scooterette market with the 102-cc gearless Activa in 2001. Activa is the market leader in the segment and sells nearly 28,000 units a month. Hero Honda rolled out its first 100cc gearless scooter the “Pleasure” across India in 2005, is proved to be a successful model. Bajaj is going to launch a full-size scooter Blade for men (could feature a 150cc engine), which will compete with the Kinetic Blaze (India’s first maxi scooter-featuring 165cc engine). Bajaj launched its new 95cc scooter Kristal targeting the fair sex (women)

Scooterette are widely used by ladies, hence it demands greater style, light weight, hassle free, greater comfort, good luggage space for shopping compromises can be made on power, mileage and price for the sake of rest.

Kristal features DTSi (digital twin spark ignition), exhausTEC (torque expansion chamber) and SNS (spring-in spring) suspension system.

Ride and comfort:

The Kristal’s engine is a 95cc unit, which puts out a peak power of 7.2 PS at 7,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 7.7Nm at 5,500 rpm. ExhausTEC and DTSi enable it to achieve a better fuel efficiency with lesser pollution. The Kristal also features a one-speed variomatic gearbox. Kristal clocks a top speed of about 75 kmph. Kristal is on par with its peers scooty pep plus and HH pleasure to offer a combined mileage of 48kpl.

Kristal features leading link with co-axial shock absorber &spring at the front and SNS at the back. Kristal’s broad and soft-foam seat makes it comfortable and supportive. Handlebar grips, made of soft and durable rubber, have been designed to give the rider a comfortable feel. Vibration transfer is well contained during speeding, but at idling there is still considerable vibration, though the handlebar grips do a good job of dampening much of it.

Design and dimensions:

When comes to design practicality predominates the style. Thoughtfully made plastic panels at the front are practical enough to save your scooter from scratches. Instrument cluster features a fuel gauge, speedometer, analog distance counter, indicators for the side stand, turn lights and for the high-beam. Kristal weighs about 99 kg and with ground clearance of 131mm makes it easy to handle. With the widest wheelbase (highest in its class) of 1250 mm it makes lot of foot space. With an under seat storage space of 22 litres and an appreciable front glove box space make Kristal a shopping bike.

Special features

It is the special features which make the vehicle a cut over the rest and are good enough to lure the ladies. Kristal does away with the choke it features an electrically operated fuel pump/feeder which eases the starting engine at cold condition. It has the unique Front Fueling system that ensures a convenient refueling to the rider by avoiding the bother of getting off the vehicle while re-fuelling. Kristal provides automatic headlamp controlled by a sensor which senses low light conditions and switches on the parking lamp and it also lights up the instrument cluster, prompting the rider to also turn on the main headlamp. Penta-lock (five) facility –ignition lock, petrol tank cap, side lock, accelerator lock and seat lock shows the producer interest on practicality of the Kristal. A bulb to light up the storage area (only offered in scooty pep plus) and a beeper prevents the seat from accidentally closing at a fuel station and protects your child from crushing fingers. Accelerator lock and side stand alarm offers you better safety.

The Motorcycle Helmet You Want May Not Be As Safe As You Think!

2007-02-14T21:21:00.004-08:00

Choosing the right Motorcycle helmet can make a difference….

….literally between life and death. But how does an ordinary guy in the street make an informed decision about what kind of helmets give the best protection? There are so many makes, models and styles. Not to mention DOT approved, Snell approved, ECE approved! It is enough to make you go goggle eyed when confronted with so much information.

Tests have shown that it is perfectly possible to suffer a fatal injury falling off a stationary bike if you hit your unprotected head on the kerb, so clearly choosing the right helmet is important.

But which one?

Wouldn’t it be easier if someone just said, “Look, when you are in a crash, you need to protect this part of you head, because this is the part that is most likely to get hurt”…

Well that’s what I thought. But it wasn’t that easy. The kind of information you need to make that kind of call requires someone, somewhere to look at a whole bunch of motorcycle crashes, look at the motorcycle helmet damage, assess where point of impact occurred and put the information into a form that allows ordinary motorcyclists (like you and me) to make a decision for themselves.

However, the good news is that if you look hard enough, the information is available. A study was carried out a few years ago by Deitmar Otte, at the Medizinsche Hochschule in Hannover, Germany on the damage incurred to helmets worn by motorcyclists involved in accidents. His analysis was extremely detailed; in fact it was far to detailed for me to go into here, but it was extremely important.

What I am going to do is tell you in a nutshell, what parts of your head are most likely to be hurt in a motorcycle accident, based on Herr Otte’s findings. The rest is up to you…

Take a motorcycle helmet and look at it from the front. Now imagine it is divided into three sections; the top (the cranium area) the middle (the area most likely covered by the visor) and the bottom (on a full face helmet, this would be the chin guard area). If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, and you hit your head you would have a 35% chance of the impact occurring to your chin area, 10% to your visor area, and 22% chance of the impact occurring to your front cranium area.

Now turn the helmet around. Looking at it from the back, divide it in two down the middle. In an accident, if you hit you head, you have a 16% chance of impact occurring on the back of you head to the left side, and a 17% chance of impact occurring on the back right side.

Conclusion? Well, this is only my personal conclusion but I would say the following…

The safest helmets are full face helmets…

Second would be three quarter helmets with visors…

Third would be half helmets…

Last would be novelty helmets.

There are lots of reasons people wear helmets. However, if safety is you main consideration, then take a good look at the full face helmets on the market, take some time and find one which you can wear comfortably on every ride.

Automatic Motorcycles

2007-02-14T21:21:00.003-08:00

German inventors Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach first developed motorcycles in 1885. It was a revolutionary petroleum-powered means of transportation that had provisions for a pair of stabilizing wheels. It came to be known as the riding car. Former models were large, bulky and had poor handling capabilities. Development of motorcycles began to progress after the First World War that saw extensive use of motorcycles, especially by Germans. These models were made with the help of new internal combustion engines that many manufacturers and producers of bicycles adapted in their designs.

Motorcycles were widely used as an economical solution to deal with rising prices of transportation. Prices of motorcycles were high at that time but yielded better returns over a period of time. As new internal combustion engines became additionally powerful and designs outgrew its bicycle origins, the number of motorcycle producers reduced. India was the largest manufacturer of motorcycles until Harley Davidson launched its bikes in the market in 1928.

Motorcycles are moderately complicated machines that make use of a "chassis" to support other parts of the bike, a "fairing" to mask the front end of the handle, "suspensions" to absorb shocks and reduce wear and tear of the motorcycle, wheels, an engine, a transmission, and brakes. These are a few basic elements of a bike, along with some more technical mechanics involved, such as oil tank, chains, odometers, and so on. The engine comes in two variants where one of them is a popular option for most due to its simple usage.

Automatic Motorcycles eliminate the hassle of frequently changing gears during traffic or other stops. Nevertheless, manual transmission is preferred as it is more economical that the automatic transmission models. Auto transmission feature takes a toll on the fuel consumption of the bike. Young people find it easy to use automatic Motorcycles because this operation is less complicated and the performance is comparable for limited use.

While purchasing an Automatic Motorcycle it is advisable to opt for a 4-stroke engine as it provides better fuel economy.

Best Motorcycle For A Woman

2007-02-14T21:21:00.001-08:00

The best motorcycle for a woman is dependent on your body and skill level. Women are as varied in terms of experience and stature as men.

What should you look for in a bike? Size and stature are one of the first things to consider. You want to be comfortable straddling and controlling your bike.

The weight and seat height of your bike are the two most important things to consider. It is not enjoyable or confidence inspiring to be riding a bike that is bigger and heavier than you are comfortable with.

Elena and I recently took a motorcycle safety foundation (MSF) basic rider course to see if we could further our riding level. The bikes used in the course were 250cc street cruisers. The Honda Rebel and Suzuki GZ250 were the bikes of choice. (The Rebel is also a 250cc bike.)

These bikes would provide a nice platform for your first bike. The benefits of these bikes include light weight, low seat height, and easy maneuverability. Elena felt very comfortable on the Suzuki. We even practiced picking the bike up off the ground, and she did it with ease (there is a trick to lifting a bike easily).

The thing that Elena really liked about these bikes is that they have the classic cruiser look (chrome and metal), yet they are light and easy to use for a beginner biker.

Additionally, these bikes are nearly bulletproof. The "mules" that we used in class were dropped and abused regularly. But they were surprisingly resilient.

The Honda and Suzuki bikes are also known for their reliability and low cost of ownership--real plusses if you don't want the hassle or cost of repairs.

The first bike that you buy is going to be a learning tool that will go through some ups and downs, so don't buy that super-special bike of your dreams for your first bike. Instead, buy one that will allow you to build confidence and improve your riding ability. The Honda Rebel and Suzuki GZ250 will provide the best balance of looks, reliability, and ease of use.

Is Your Motorcycle Safe To Ride? How Do You Know?

2007-02-14T21:20:00.002-08:00

Motorcycle Protective Clothing That Works!

2007-02-14T21:20:00.001-08:00

There is some great looking motorcycle clothing on the market these days, but believe me not all of the motorcycle clothing offers as much protection as you think. In Europe, for motorcycle clothing to be lawfully sold as “safety" clothing, it has to pass a series of European standards, which are pretty lengthy but are available on my website. The standards cover the clothing’s performance in abrasion, tearing and impact tests, and when they have passed; they are sold with the CE mark. However, no such regulation is available in the USA, so what should you look for?

Protection in the right places…

Not many people realise that most motorcycle injuries occur below the belt. Your legs and feet are extremely vulnerable, so make sure that you wear a decent pair of high boots and some protective pants. The pants should be reinforced at the knees and hips; ideally they should attach to your jacket by a zipper. Boots should be thick leather, with a sole that can flex with the foot but has a resistance to crushing across the foot.

Traditional material for motorcycle clothing is leather, but thick nylon and other synthetic materials work well too. Kevlar reinforced jeans are better than normal jeans .Normal jeans last 0.6 seconds in the European standard abrasion test, while protective motorcycle pants will last 5 seconds or more. You don’t really want to be ripping your skin open within less than half a second of falling of your bike do you? Thought not.

Same principles apply to jackets. Make sure they are hardwearing, if they are leather make sure it is thick leather not fashion leather like some jackets. Stitching should be uniform with no dropped stitches, and all your “sharp bits”, your elbows and shoulders should be reinforced, ideally with some impact protection included.

A decent pair of gloves is a must; your palms will be at risk in an accident; you instinctively put out your hands palm side down to stop yourself in a slide, so the palms of your gloves should be reinforced with patches. Knitted Kevlar is especially good for this kind of abrasion resistance, but reinforced leather works well too.

Impact protection can be bought separately like back protectors and so on, but remember where your most vulnerable areas are. And make sure if you buy impact protection you actually wear it! If you have any doubts it may be better to go for motorcycle clothing with a degree of impact protection included so that you know when you put on your jacket and pants, the protection is always going to be there.

Last but not least, pick out a helmet you can wear and wear it always. You may have a greater chance of getting injured below the waist in a motorcycle accident, but the consequences of being involved in an accident without a helmet just don’t bear thinking about….

So, next time you are shopping for motorcycle clothing, give a bit of thought to the level of protection it offers before you buy it. You never know it could save you a lot of unnecessary pain!

Motorcycle Auction-Looking For Sweet Deals On Repossessed Motorcycles

2007-02-08T20:37:00.000-08:00

Repossessed motorcycle auction have a couple of benefits for both the consumer and the seller. First, through the auction you will be certain that the price at that given time is the highest for that particular motorcycle. So as a seller you're guaranteed, in a way, of the best profit for your sale.

Meanwhile, for the consumers the auction is a great place to acquire cheap motorcycles that are in great shape and if you're really lucky, you will even get a repossessed motorcycle that's close to being brand new. A brand new motorcycle will cost you quite a fortune. That's why the best option for you is get a used bike in a repossessed motorcycle auction.

There are a lot of public auctions out there where you could get your bike at dirt cheap prices. But the best deals are actually found in government seized auctions. A repossessed motorcycle auction features motorcycles, dirt bikes and atv's that were seized by the government from owners involved in unlawful activities. You can find these kinds of auctions happening in all parts of the country.

It is held yearly, monthly or even weekly depending on the place. So you need to keep an eye out for these kinds of auctions if you really want to have a bike that is cheap. Now, the main reason why repossessed motorcycle auction offers cheap motorcycles is that the government agency got the bikes for free and they will really want to get rid of them for whatever price possible since it is quite expensive to store the vehicles and their departments would appreciate the additional cash for their budget.

There are some things that you need to remember when buying from a repossessed motorcycle auction. Just like when buying cars from auction events, you need to inspect carefully the motorcycles that are up for bid.

Come early on the auction date so you have enough time to inspect the items thoroughly. Plus, by going early you avoid the rush of people and will not be pressured or bothered when you conduct your own inspections.

Also, before you go to a repossessed motorcycle auction you need to have at least an idea of the price range of the items that are up for bid. This means you need to be familiar with the kinds of motorcycles and their current market value. Market value includes if the motorcycle is brand new and the retail value if it has been used or reconditioned.

Remember too that you need to set for yourself the highest price you will bid for the bike and once you've decided you better stick with it regardless of how much you liked the motorcycle. If you don't, you will be engaged in a bidding war that will end up with you paying more than what the bike was worth in the first place. Don't get caught with the pace. Go there with your own style and your own pace.

Don't settle for a single repossessed motorcycle auction, there are a lot of auctions out there especially online. So before you go on a scheduled auction, visit a couple of online auctions first to get an idea on how the prices of the motorcycles fare.

You never now, you might find a product that is cheaper especially in an unpopular auction due to the less number of bidders. Preparation is always the key when you opt to buy your motorcycle in a repossessed motorcycle auction event.

How to Keep Warm When Riding in Chilly Weather

2007-02-08T20:36:00.003-08:00

The cold weather is upon us. Here in northern Florida the winter weather is snow free but the air has become chilly and the sun is not as strong as the rest of the year.

We love to ride in the winter here but we have to pull out our winter gear to keep things comfy. The trick to keeping things warm in the winter is layers and moisture control. A good set of cotton or other absorbant type of material is the best for skin contact

The first layer of clothing that actually contacts your skin should wick moisture away. This is the most important layer. We all sweat and if the layer of cloth that contacts our skin doesn't absorb and draw it away from our body than we will get cold and wet in a hurry.

Shirts and pants should be loose fitting and comfortable. A comfortable pair of jeans and a sweatshirt will provide another layer of absorbant warm clothing

The next layer is where a good set of electrically heated clothing could really chase the chill away. The selection of jackets, gloves, and socks will be sure to satisfy all your needs and wants. There are a lot of gloves, coats, and socks that are excellent products that provide adjustable heating temps to satisfy your changing needs.

The next layer should provide wind protection and warmth. A good set of riding leathers should fit the bill. Leathers not only provide wind protection and insulation, but it also provides the abrasion protection that we expect from them.

Motorcycle Storage: Is Your Motorcycle Going To Be Ready For Spring? Part I

2007-02-08T20:36:00.001-08:00

Many of us live in areas not conducive to riding a motorcycle rear round. I know there are die-hards out there who will ride in anything, all year, I used to be one of them, rain, snow, negative temperatures, you name it. Today, however, I prefer to ride my motorcycle when the conditions are more favorable. I enjoy riding more when there are less hazards and warmer temperatures. This means that every year, just like thousands of others, I roll my motorcycle into its winter nesting place, the back of my garage.

Storing a motorcycle is not as simple as rolling it into the back of a garage though, at least if you want a effortless start to the new riding season. It doesn't have to be hard either. Just a few steps and you can insure that your motorcycle will be ready when you are.

The first and most important step would be care of your motorcycle battery. Over time motorcycle batteries slowly discharge. You might have experienced the effects on your battery after your motorcycle sat for just a week or two. Imagine if you left it alone for an entire winter. Your battery would surely be dead and depending on its age and condition before storage, it might not ever take a charge again. Buying and installing a new battery in your motorcycle on the first day of good riding weather is an easily avoidable situation. Keep your motorcycle battery charged.

In the past one would have to charge the battery periodically during the storage period. Today we have battery chargers that offer a low rate of charge only as needed by the battery. These battery chargers shut off when a full charge is reached as to avoid overcharging and damaging the battery. Most of these battery chargers supply a 'pigtail' that can be permanently attached to your motorcycle battery, thus making it easier to connect the battery charger. So convenient that you easily could, and should use the battery charger year round.

The second sign of a long stored motorcycle is the deterioration of the fuel. Like batteries discharging, over time fuel will become 'stale' and creating a gum and varnish buildup. Not just the fuel in the tank, but in the entire fuel system. To avoid hard or impossible starting of your motorcycle (and poor running if you do get it started) due to stale fuel, removing or treating the fuel in your motorcycle is a must. Draining a fuel tank is a real drag, and getting all of the gas out of carburetors is not much better. Fortunately there are fuel additives available today that will halt the negative effects of aging gas, perfect for your stored motorcycle.

Motorcycle Storage: Is Your Motorcycle Going To Be Ready For Spring? Part II

2007-02-08T20:35:00.000-08:00

So lets re-cap. You put your motorcycle battery on a battery tender. You added a fuel stabilizer to your fuel system. You are set to hop on and ride in the Spring, right? Not so fast, take the time and consider a few more items commonly overlooked.

Where are you storing your motorcycle? Inside a heated garage is obviously the best option, but let’s face it, this is not a option for everyone. If you don’t have a garage to store your motorcycle in, a good quality motorcycle cover can work just fine. Either way consider the elements present, a heated garage can have its drawbacks as well!

If you are going to store your motorcycle outside under a cover, take the time to consider the location. A motorcycle parked in the dirt or grass for three winter months runs the risk of settling and falling over. Also, having your motorcycle tires planted in the dirt for three months while slowly going flat is not considered desirable. A motorcycle under a cover outside is likely to experience the effects of moisture, some possible corrosion and condensation in gauges and components. This can be a superficial problem, however, and by removing the cover and allowing your motorcycle to sun itself for a day here and there is an easy solution.

If you are storing your motorcycle in a garage you still need to consider its location. Does the garage have any appliances with a pilot light such as a clothes dryer, hot water heater or furnace? These are always a danger when in a closed area near gasoline or other flammable chemicals. Are there any windows that will let alot of sun in. I've seen a motorcycle in a garage, bathed in intense sunlight through a window, have all of its rubber parts dried out and cracked in one storage season. Another common problem is nesting rodents. They've been found in airboxes, seats, even exhaust pipes. These guys not only make a mess where they sleep, but also where they eat, they love to snack on electrical wires.

As always, before taking your motorcycle for a ride, make sure you complete a thorough safety check. All lights, switches, and safety equipment should be fully operational. All fluids should be clean and full. Make sure your riding gear is still in good condition, fits properly and that your motorcycle insurance policy is current.

Lastly, check your tire condition and pressures! Cold, flat motorcycle tires are not the right way to start the new season.

Looking For A New Motorcycle Helmet-Be Sure To Look For The Right Features

2007-02-08T20:34:00.000-08:00

Let's face it: it's not a good idea to skimp on a helmet. The majority of bike-related deaths come from head injury.

A well-built helmet should offer a wide variety of benefits:

SAFETY: The shell should be made from organic fiberglass and carbon fiber in various layers. This creates a shock absorbent shell with optimum rigidity.

LINER: The helmet liner should provide optimized protection through EPS elements. The helmet should utilize a modular three-layer system with various degrees of shock absorbency.

VISOR: The visor should incorporate a variety of features that ensure easy change-ability of visors as well as resistance to fogging. The visors should also provide a high degree of impact resistance.

AERODYNAMICS: Quality helmets are designed with maximum comfort in mind. Streamlined aerodynamic shape along with the aero edge spoilers (which is race inspired) reduce drag and lift at high speed.

GOOD LOOKS: I put this last because it really isn't as important as all the safety and comfort features...but we all want to look good in a helmet, right? Well, with a huge variety of styles and colors to choose from, you can get a helmet that looks great and keeps you safe and comfortable.

What to look for when buying a quality motorcycle helmet.

There are several things to consider when purchasing any helmet. Firstly, is fit and comfort. Consider purchasing a helmet that is lightweight, and fits snugly without pinching or rubbing in spots.

Visibility is another important factor. You need to be able to see forward as well as to the sides. You might also try your prescription glasses while trying out the helmet to assure a comfy fit.

Finally, consider the ability of the helmet to manage air flow. No one wants a helmet that is noisy and constantly buffetting in the air.

Teknic Motorcycle Leathers Offer More Than Most

2007-01-30T21:16:00.001-08:00

All bikers want to protect themselves from the occasional spill. Your helmet protects your skull, but what about the rest of your body? Gloves and boots take care of the extremities but what about your torso and limbs? That's where a good set of leathers come in.

One of the best brands of leathers available is the teknic brand of leathers. There are several types of teknic leathers to choose from. Here are some of the major categories:

o 1&2 piece suits
o Leather jackets
o Leather pants
o Textile jackets
o Textile pants
o Ladies suits & jackets

Let's take a look at what makes Teknic leathers different than others. Firstly, you have the leather. Teknic uses thicker leather than the competition, so you get a suit that provides more abrasion protection.

Secondly, you have the armor. Teknic incorporates their armor into the leather in the critical areas-elbows, knees, and shoulders. By securely incorporating the armor it prevents it from moving around in the event of an impact.

Another consideration in selecting riding leathers is the seam construction. It is much more comfortable for the rider if their bare skin is not in direct contact with seams. Teknic covers their seams and prevents sore spots.

You should also consider stretch material in critical areas for comfort and control. The arm/shoulder and leg/groin areas are constantly moving, so having stretchable, breathable panels in these areas is a benefit.

Choosing the right set of teknic motorcycle leathers is a decision that could save your life. A high quality set of leathers not only make you look good, they also provide a good layer of protection.

M4 Motorcycle Exhausts: I'm Looking At One-This Is What I've Found

2007-01-30T21:15:00.000-08:00

The number of aftermarket exhausts are endless. they all make claims of better performance,style and sound. Recently I have been looking at a new aftermarket exhaust for my bike and I'm looking at a M4. These exhausts can have a significant effect on performance and the ability to carry a passenger.

First, the performance. Some bikers go the way of bolting a big bore no-name can on their bikes with the thought of cheap horsepower. Too bad--this rarely happens.

Modern bikes are finely tuned machines. The exhaust plays a crucial role in this system. No-name exhausts typically are not correctly tuned for your application and can actually hurt horsepower and torque.

The best way to evaluate an exhaust's performance is to look at a dyno sheet. So be sure to ask for a dyno sheet for the M4 exhaust. Dyno sheets are available by most high end manufacturers, and they clearly show where and how the horsepower and torque are changed with the new pipe.

The exhaust is specifically tied to your carb/fuel injection. When you change your exhaust it is critical that you have your carb re-jetted or your fuel injection recalibrated. This should be inexpensive at the shop doing the pipe swap.

Passenger Considerations with the M4 Motorcycle Exhaust: The other thing to consider with an aftermarket exhaust is how it will affect your passenger footpegs. Depending on how the system mounts, it might require you removing the rear pegs. This might not bother you, but it is something to consider.

Ball Bearings

2007-01-25T03:15:00.001-08:00

Over the past five decades, the life of ball bearings has greatly increased. In fact, from its 1973 levels, the life span has improved a hundred times. This is partly due to the use of vacuum-induction-melted, vacuum-arc-remelted (VIM-VAR) AISI M-50 steel and improved oil filtration for angular contact ball bearings. An enhancement in the composition of lubricants that includes advanced EHD oil film thickness between bearing components has improved ball bearing performance and efficiency.

Ball bearings are used in machines and in wheels of vehicles like motorcycles, bikes and skateboards. Most modern wheel bearings last a long time. But, as it is with the principle of wear and tear, it also depends on how much pressure the bearings get from use and how extensive your maintenance activities are. For example, the ball bearings in a high-mileage dirt bike may not last as long in highly maintained vehicles. Cleaning the wheels with high pressure water can also contribute to the damage. Rust and dirt dry up the ball bearings and cause more friction that eventually wears them out.

To ensure that you maximize the life span of the ball bearings, you must be vigilant with maintenance. Most ball bearings were lubricated in the factory. Over time, the bearings lose those lubricants to the elements. Usually, a little grease will do the trick. Other times, a total overhaul is needed to change the bearings. Keep in mind that ball bearings are subjected to large amounts of pressure. Ease their burden by lessening friction. Be generous with the lubricants and always clean your wheels.

Bearings are tough and they give out warning signs before they totally collapse. Watch out for the faint clunking noise and creaking sounds they may make. Feel also for grittiness or lumps when you turn the wheel. If they are not smooth, you will know the ball bearings need lubrication.

Motorcycle Tires Q & A

2007-01-25T03:14:00.002-08:00

Too many queries are made and we need real answers. In motorcycles, overwhelming questions are given especially on motorcycle parts. One motorcycle part that needs elucidation is tire.

Here are few of the frequently asked questions about tires:

1. Why are new tires better?

First, new tires are better because it is organic and it decomposes. Second because the older the tire gets, the more it is exposed to outgassing. Outgassing makes the tire brittle.

2. What’s the right tire age?

In essence, the principle is the newer the tire the better. However, to make a tire last longer the tire’s age is of lesser importance. But be careful not to buy tires which are over six or seven years old. You will be able to know their date of manufacturing by searching for the three or four-digit number stamped in the tire’s sidewall. For instance, 2101 stands for 21st week of 2001 - which is its manufacturing date.

3. What are size and pressure?

Run the bike in the recommended tire pressure. It is so simple. You just have to stick to the manufacturers guidelines. That is the safest and the best thing that you can do. Nevertheless, you can have some deviations depending on your desired performance. Moreover, you have to check tire pressure regularly.

4. What will I do in case of a flat tire?

Motorcycle tires swerve from more directions. Unlike car tires, motorcycle tire has only the other tire to prevent it from falling. Thus, the best thing to do in case of a flat tire is to replace it and not just plug it.

5. When is there a need for replacement?

It depends. Front tires may still shot even when there is still ample rubber. In fact, they may still look good even if they have gone through considerable heat cycles. They can also cup or scallop when already having uneven surface. This is the best time to replace them.

6. When to buy a tire?

Buying tires must be made at reputable motorcycle stores. These stores have already established their names and services. You can also order online. But this remedy is a gamble because it will not guarantee that you will be getting newly manufactured tires. When you buy tires personally, you have the opportunity to choose the freshest tire in the store. You also have the chance to compare prices and quality.

Top 10 Dumbest Things Pro Athletes Do

2007-01-25T03:14:00.001-08:00

There seems to be an endless stream of idiotic things professional athletes do. I guess if you put a bunch of young men together, give them a boat-load of money and lots of free time, what can you expect? When beautiful women, the media and the luxuries of life are thrown at them, their cockiness and stupidity are only amplified. Here are my top ten, but of course there are lots more. However, we must always remember, they are only human too.

1. Me Make Good Play!

Ever see NFL players beat their chest like a gorilla after they just made a good play? I guess it’s a Tarzan thing or something, but they look kinda ridiculous. Maybe if I was out there on the field and I was a 170-pound kicker watching a defensive lineman beating his chest after a sack, I may be a little intimidated, but overall, they look really silly doing it. (I attended a professional all-women’s football game this year and saw a 350- pound woman do this, which was particularly scary.)

2. The God Factor, Part I

I hate it when players point up to Heaven and thank God after a good play too. Bear in mind however, that I am not criticizing religion or anyone for having faith in God. But this just looks lame. It happens a lot in MLB for some reason. A strikeout will cause Pedro Martinez to do the chest-touch and double-index- finger-point to God as if he and God were chatting earlier about possible pitching strategies in the locker room, and the strategy they chose together worked, so he had to personally thank God using his direct line.

3. The God Factor, Part II

Locker rooms, sidelines, dugouts, bullpens, and court sides are often full of praying men. One question: “If you are praying to win, and your opponent is praying to win, who does God choose?

4. Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do When They Come For You?

Why do pro jocks get arrested for drug and/or gun possession so much? Of course, lots of people do this one unfortunately, we just happen to hear about the famous athletes who do. C’mon guys, keep the drugs at home, stop driving while high, and for crying out loud, stop packin’! You don’t need a gun. Who’s going to harm you? You’re six six and weigh 275 pounds!

5. It Wasn’t Me!

Telling Congress you don’t do steroids, then getting caught doing steroids is pretty dumb. I loved watching the clips where Rafael Palmero sat pointing a finger at the Congressional hearing stating with disgust and confidence, “I do not take steroids.” And then the next clip showing him apologizing profusely for taking steroids.

6. I Love You To Death

Murdering ex-lovers doesn’t happen very often fortunately, but my list wouldn’t be complete without at least mentioning O.J.

7. Rabbits

It seems that there are a lot of NBA players out there who use the phrase, “My baby’s mom” a little too often. And there’s too many pro athletes’ offspring introducing their buddies as “My brother from another mother.” Ever hear of a condom?

Getting Quotes For Your Motorbike Insurance

2007-01-21T21:32:00.002-08:00

If you are a motorbike lover, make sure you invest in motorbike insurance that will cover yourself and your machine before hitting the road – figuratively speaking of course.

Don’t settle for just any motorbike insurance. Make a list of questions and needs that you have and then call several companies to compare their services. Visit with agents to see if they are people you can work with and feel comfortable trusting. Look online to find out the company’s history and see if there are negative comments and reports floating around. Most importantly, talk to your friends and family about their experiences with insurance companies.

There are some things that you need to make sure stay consistent when you are getting quotes:

Motorbike model: The year and make of your motorbike will be one of the largest factors in determining the cost of your insurance premium.

Amount of coverage: Insurance companies will only pay out market value incase of an accident, so make sure that you are only pricing coverage for that amount.

Deductibles: There are varying degrees for deductibles, so make sure you keep the number consistent when getting quotes from different companies.

Extras: If one quote includes roadside assistance, then make sure they all do. The little things can make a big difference in the final quote.

Discounts: Insurance companies typically give discounts to drivers for good driving records, taking special safety courses, or having multiple insurance policies from one company. Make sure you get all the same discounts when comparing rates.

Shopping for motorbike insurance can be almost as tricky as shopping for that first bike. To make sure that you compare oranges to oranges – the rates are on the exact same products – keep a list of the terms you have been getting quoted right at hand.

After you get all the numbers crunched, add in the personal factor. No matter how good the rate, motorbike insurance doesn’t do you any good if you can’t get the company to respond to your claim. When you find a company that you can trust, an agent that you feel comfortable with, and a rate that you can afford then your motorbike insurance will make your biking experience a dream and not a nightmare.

Basic Motorcycle-Terminology-Part One

2007-01-21T21:32:00.001-08:00

So you want to ride a bike, huh? Good for you. There are few kinds of pure freedom left in the world, and there’s almost nothing like the raw exhilaration of getting your bike out on a blue sky, sunny day. Like the thrill of baseball, or the importance of gourmet cooking, it’s not something that can be explained. You really do have to experience it for yourself. Once you do, though, you’ll know what drew you to your bike in the first place, and how some men and women devote their entire lives and fortunes into riding. But first, before you even take your first ride, there’s an obstacle to cross:

You don’t know a damn thing about riding.

That’s all right, though, and we can help you, at least in learning your way around a bike. The mechanical parts of a bike aren’t that much different from the parts of a car: they both have shock absorbers, mufflers, and the several different parts of the internal combustion engine that spins the wheels. They both have headlights, and taillights, although there’s a vast difference in size. And they both have seats. You knew all this, already, huh? Well, here are a few other parts you might not know:

The sissie bar: This is the loop or rectangle of metal at the back of the rider’s seat, just above and before the saddlebags and rear wheel hood. Its sometimes coated in leather, sometimes in chrome, but it’s invaluable for newbie riders: it’s what they hold onto when the bike goes forward. Seriously. Biker parlance tells you that holding on is for sissies, hence the name.

Throttle, clutch, and brake handles: On most motorcycles, the throttle – or ignition – is mounted on the right side handlebar, and is turned either backwards or forwards to achieve thrust. The brake is on the left hand side and also depends on a foot pedal. The clutch, which shifts gears much like a standard transmission, is mounted on either side (again depending on the model). Steering – and this is important – is achieved by turning the handlebars and leaning to either side. Not to patronize, but again, the throttle is on the right, the brakes on the left. Please don’t ever confuse them.

Leathers: The leather jackets, riding chaps, and sometimes caps or hats worn by bikers to protect them from the elements and provide a certain amount of protection in the event of a crash. After the bike itself, the leathers are almost always a true biker’s most cherished possession, and a kind of record keeping: you can tell the rider’s history by the scuffs, marks, and tears of his leather. In recent years, certain synthetic leathers have come very, very close to approximating the real thing, but they may never be a true substitute.

Why Race Bikes are Better than Harley Davidson

2007-01-13T20:51:00.000-08:00

Many people love their Harley Davidson even when they are stuck on the side of the road all day, waiting for someone to help them fix it or wait for a two truck to lift it up onto a flat bed. Every year on the way to Sturgis hundreds of people never make it on their Harley Davidson because the bike breaks down in the middle of nowhere and they are stuck with the wind howling and sitting on their butts. You can see them for hundreds and hundreds of miles each year coming from every direction stuck on the side of the road.

Why are race bikes better than Harley Davidson? Well they use less gasoline for one reason. They go faster too and accelerate twice as fast. The Japanese race bikes are also more trouble free and do not break down as must. Japanese race bikes cost less money to by. Is that all? No, that is not all I am just getting warmed up which takes Harley Davidson a few minutes longer than Japanese Race Bikes.

Japanese race bikes are safer to control and more stable, more maneuverable and lighter weight. Japanese bikes can stop faster and thus prevent accidents too. Just about everything a Harley Davidson can do a Japanese Race Bike can do better, more efficiently and cheaper too. So, why do people buy Harley Davidson Motorcycles? Well it is part of the branding image and the Harley Davidson riders just think they look cool acting like sneaky bad guys.

Why a Harley Davidson Motorcycle

2007-01-13T20:50:00.000-08:00

There are several manufacturers of motorcycles around the world. The BMW for one, builds performance driven motorcycles for years. Japan-made Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha also have race winning motorcycles. Ducati is another motorcycle brand that is very popular around the world. But why a Harley Davidson?

Why is Harley-Davidson so popular around the world? Why is that when a Harley rolls on the road, everyone will turn their heads for a glance? Why is it that when one talks about motorcycle, the very first brand in mind is the Harley-Davidson?

Finding answers to these questions will give us 3 words: name, quality, and pride.

Name – When you hear the word “Harley-Davidson”, the first thing that might pop out from your mind is a “one hell of a machine”. Hearing the name “Harley-Davidson” would also easily gives you the impression of a great motorcycle company that set a great legacy throughout history. The name can be synonymous with toughness, quality, speed, and versatility. The name itself will set itself on the top of your mind.

Quality– Whether it is a CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations), Dyna, Sportster, Softail, Touring, or VRSC model, it is a Harley-Davidson. And when we say Harley-Davidson, we mean quality that is built over the years. Each Harley-Davidson motorcycle is made in superiority from the engine parts to the decals and finishing touches. Harley-Davidson motorcycles are made not only to sell but to live for a lifetime as well.

Pride – Harley-Davidson has been manufacturing motorcycles for over a century. And with a company that survived this long, owning one is like owning a piece of history of the company. Harley-Davidson motorcycles have gained so much respect over the years and it has set the trend for the motorcycle industry in the United States. Any Harley-Davidson motorcycle owner would say that they are proud to have at least one great motorcycle in their possession.

What would you feel if you are riding a motorcycle with the name “Harley-Davidson”? Surely, you feel proud. Proud as if you have your first baby; proud as if you have owned a brand-new house; and proud as if you have realized your dream. Indeed, owning a Harley-Davidson can be a dream come true for most. As the price of a Harley motorcycle does not come cheap, owning one can be hard. But if you do, you feel fulfilled and you somehow feel you have your life complete.

Motorcycles for Sale

2007-01-12T20:48:00.003-08:00

A motorcycle is a specially designed vehicle with two or three wheels and powered by an engine. It is one of the most commonly used vehicles and is a cheap means of transport in the present day.

Basically, motorcycles are classified into three categories; touring bikes, cruisers, and sport bikes. Today, the motorcycle market is flooded with different brands and models of motorcycles. Thus before buying a motorcycle, one has to determine the type of motorcycle, based on the purpose. Buell, Ducati, Harley Davidson Motorcycles, Honda, Kawasaki, Motto Guzzi, Motto Morini, Suzuki, Triumph, and Yamaha are some of the leading brands in motorcycles. All the brands and models of motorcycles can be purchased from authorized dealers, classifieds, or from online stores.

Nowadays, the Internet has become one of the major sources from where you can purchase and sell different types and models of motorcycles. When compared to other sources, the online stores provide better options in different models and prices of motorcycles. For better appraisal of the products, most of the websites provide descriptions, pictures, and pricing of the motorcycles. CycleTrader.com, chooseyouritem.com, 100motorcycles.com, and motorcycleshopper.com are some of the online sites which list various brands of motorcycles for sale. These online stores may have many disadvantages, but still they are considered the best source for shopping motorcycles.

Those who do not prefer online stores can get their motorcycles from the local dealers. If you are planning to purchase a new motorcycle, it is always better to consult any of the authorized dealers because most of the motorcycle companies sell their products through them. You must determine the type of motorcycle you need before going to the dealers or else, get help from the sales person who can assist you in selecting a good one. Some dealers also sell used and refurbished motorcycles. Like a new motorcycle, the used and refurbished motorcycle is also backed up by a warranty period. Another great option for purchasing and selling used motorcycles is the newspaper classified.

Motorcycles and Girls

2007-01-12T20:48:00.001-08:00

A motorcycle is considered as the one of the trendiest and common means of transport. Earlier, it was popular only among men. But, today, even girls are passionate about this trendy vehicle and are widely using it off and on road rides.

As the physical structure of a woman is entirely different from a man, a woman should select a motorcycle which will suit her physical structure. For example, women generally have forward riding postures because of the lower center of gravity and less upper body weights. To provide more control and comfort while riding, the motorcycles for women come with dropped handlebars. In order to reduce the problem of saddle discomfort, the weight is shifted from the seat region to the arms. Motorcycles also come with specially designed seats for women riders.

With an increase in the use of motorcycles by girls, numerous models and brands of motorcycles are introduced in the market, and this includes a lot of poorly designed vehicles also. Therefore, it is always recommended to take lots of quality test rides before selecting one. Generally, the motorcycles used by women are the lighter versions of the men's model. Thus, they are easier to handle and comfortable to ride.

There are many special organizations and clubs for motorcycles girls. These clubs and organizations arrange for motorcycle rallies and events for girls. One such event is the bike week organized in Daytona Beach of Florida. This bike rally started in 1937, and since then it has been considered one of the most popular events for women riders. Bike week is organized every year, and motorcycle girls from all around the world come to take part in this rally. Apart from the rally, wet t shirt contests, bikini contests, pudding wrestling, coleslaw wresting, and many other hot events are organized during the bike week.

It is also considered fashionable for girls on motorcycles. Every motorcycle magazine has motorcycle girls on their pages throughout each issue. Thus, you get to see a girl on top of every great article of a quality motorcycle magazine.

Cheap Motorcycles

2007-01-11T20:47:00.001-08:00

Cheap motorcycles are the most economical options for those who are looking for off-road and on-road rides. Touring bikes, cruisers, and sport bikes are the basic categories of motorbikes available in the market. Whether it is touring bikes, cruisers, or sport bikes, there are numerous ways to avail these motorcycles at a cheaper rate.

The best option to purchase motorcycles at a cheaper rate is the Internet. Through this, you can avail motorcycles for a discount rate of 20% to 50%. Internet is jammed with numerous websites which provide a wider option in different models of motorcycles. discountmotorcycles.com, dddiscountmotorcycles.com, and discountmotorcyclesonline.com are some of the online sites to avail motorcycles at a competitive rate. Moreover, the websites also include the product description, picture, and other details about the product. Thus, you can make your choice after studying these various aspects.

You can also buy motorcycles at a cheaper rate from wholesale dealers. When compared to the retailers, the wholesalers provide motorcycles at a competitive price. Apart from this, they also provide after sales service to their products. Hence, this is one of the ideal options for those who want to by new motorcycle at a cheaper rate.

Buying used motorcycles is also the best choice for getting motorcycles at a cheaper rate. One can easily find used motorcycles of different brands and models. In the case of a used motorcycle, the price will be determined by the age, brand, and model of the vehicle. These can be upgraded depending on the needs. There are many local dealers, who collect and refurbish used motorcycles. Some of the dealers also provide after sales service and warranty. Thus, this will be ideal for beginners. Purchasing of used motorcycles will have many downsides. So, one has to make a proper study before buying a used motorcycle. The best thing is to go through the various motorcycle magazines to know the current market trends and rates.

Newspaper is the most common source to find cheap motorcycles, especially, the classified and the auction listing for cheap motorcycles. Apart from buying, you can also place your ads for cheap motorcycles of any brand or model depending on your need.

Chinese Motorcycles

2007-01-11T20:47:00.000-08:00

In the present world, motorcycles have become the most common and popular means of transport and the motorcycle market is flooded with different brands of motorcycles. Chinese motorcycles are replicates of the most popular designs and brands in the world market. Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Honda are some of the popular brands in the motorcycle market.

Currently, there are more than 150 motorcycle manufacturing companies in China. Qingqi, Jialing, Zhejiang, Jincheng and Xindazhou are the most popular of them. These manufacturers thoroughly study all the successful branded models and make duplicates of the models. The Chinese motorcycles are in great demand among the African, Middle Eastern, and Asian countries. Apart from these places, the Chinese motorcycles are also in great demand among the American people. The increase in demand for these Chinese motorcycles has lead to a great threat to the global manufacturers.

Focused on the lowest segment of market, the prices of these Chinese motorcycles are comparatively lower than the branded motorcycles. On an average, a Chinese motorcycle will cost approximately $285 to $470. Due to its economic rate, it has become equally popular in domestic and international markets.

You can also find sites in the Internet to look up Chinese motorcycles. While buying Chinese motorcycles, make sure that you get motorcycles at minimum cost and maximum benefits, and the Internet will provide you with wider options in models and price levels. Ebay is one of the best online sites to shop your Chinese motorcycles.

Though, Chinese motorcycles are the exact copies of the popular branded models, they do not show the same performances. Commonly, fake engines and parts of the popular branded models are used to build these duplicates. Thus, the quality of a Chinese motorcycle is very low when compared to the branded design. Hence, a Chinese motorcycle is an ideal option for those who cannot afford the branded one.

Vintage Motorcycles

2007-01-10T20:47:00.000-08:00

Motorcycles were first introduced in the later half of 19th century. Since the invention, motorcycles have become one of the most popular and common means of transportation. Vintage motorcycles are the earlier models of motorcycles which were manufactured after the First World War.

Vintage motorcycles are all time passion of bike riders and speed lovers. Apart from being a passion, some ardent rider also collects and preserves vintage motorcycles as treasures. The Japanese, British, Europeans, and the Americans were the leading manufacturers of motorcycles in the early days. But, the Japanese brands have gained much popularity due to their economic price, and the bike parts were easily availed.

Sunbeam, BMW, BSA, Norton, DKW, Brough Superior, and Triumph were some of the prominent manufacturers of vintage motorcycles, and these companies introduced many models of motorcycles during the vintage period. The prominent models include BMW R12, Indian 8-Valve Racer, Indian Chief, Sunbeam Model 8 LL, Triumph Tiger, John Tickle Norton, Cotton Racer, Triumph Bonneville, and Norton Dominator 99. These vintage motorcycles can also be given as beautiful gifts to motorcycle enthusiasts.

Vintage motorcycles can be more expensive than modern-day styles. On an average, a vintage motorcycle will cost $10,000 and more. But, the price of a vintage motorcycle will fluctuate based on the age, model, and type. Some of the vintage motorcycles are backed by different warranty periods and after sales services.

You can purchase vintage motorcycles from dealers who specialize in classic and vintage motorcycles or online stores. For a wider choice in vintage motorcycles, online stores are ideal. Most of the online stores will display its products, with description, picture, and pricing. Thus, a purchase can be made after going through the product description. Apart from vintage motorcycles, the parts are also available in the online stores. motorcycle.com, webbikeworld.com, and starklite.com are some of the online sites to shop for vintage motorcycles.

Before purchasing a vintage motorcycle, it is always recommended to go through the various vintage motorcycle magazines in order to get an idea about the various models, brands, and prices.

Electric Motorcycles

2007-01-10T20:46:00.000-08:00

The motorcycle was introduced in the latter half of the 19th century. Since then this has been the most common and popular means of transport. An electric motorcycle is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by battery and is the latest innovation in the motorcycle industry.

Basically, electric motorcycles can be classified into two; power-on-demand motorcycles and power-assist motorcycles. Earlier, electric motorcycles were used only for races. With the introduction of electric motorcycles for general use, they have become one of the most popular and trendy means of transport among the local masses. Unlike the ordinary motorcycles, the electric motorcycles are powered by batteries. Thus, electric motorcycles are the best solution for air pollution and making the earth a better place to live in.

On an average, the lifespan of the battery is approximately 300 charges or 15000 km, and it may last for one to two years. The blade of the electric motorcycles delivers horsepower which is equivalent to a 250 four-stroke motor. Apart from high performance, the blade does not produce any noise or pollution. The control of the blade can be programmed to suit the ride. When compared with other motorcycles, the electric motorcycles are lightweight.

To meet the varying demands, the electric motorcycle comes in a wide range of colors, models and brands. EMB Inc., Kawasaki, Yamaha, Honda, and Suzuki are some of the leading companies dealing in electric motorcycles. Most popular models in electric motorcycles are TDM07Z, SW-0004, and SW-0004.

Depending on the availability, all the different models of electric motorcycles can be purchased from various sources, the favorite being the online stores. Internet is packed with numerous online sites which provide a wide range of options in electric motorcycles. Another major source from where you can purchase electric motorcycles is authorized dealers.

Electric motorcycles are available in different price levels to meet the varying needs. When compared with petrol or gas motorcycles, the electric motorcycles are quite expensive. A brand new electric motorcycle with 48-Volt SLA Battery pack will cost around $6,800 and a longer range electric motorcycle will cost more. In spite of the high cost, it is considered as the most viable option for a pollution free and joyful ride.

Discount Motorcycle Jackets

2007-01-09T20:46:00.000-08:00

Motorcycle jackets were not always a necessity but are considered a style statement. Though this philosophy is not entirely untrue, manufacturers have modified them as per requirements. Motorcycle jackets are easily available at local specialist stores and online. Manufacturers have created dedicated ranges that are designed for individual seasonal needs. This includes a range of summer winter and rain motorcycle jackets. It is clear that seasonal jackets serve their purpose if worn at the right times. However, numerous manufacturers offer these collections at discounted prices, and because they are seasonal, can be found more affordably during the off seasons.

Discount offers may be a contentious issue but that does not deter potential buyers from being curious. From a manufacturer's perspective, discount motorcycle jacket sales offer a platform to showcase and display a range of other products as well. Before finalizing a discount motorcycle jacket purchase, buyers need to check a manufacturers reputation and return policies. It is difficult to pick the best deal very often. When making discount purchases, it is important to find a brand that offers comfort and optimum rider protection. At times, stores may not advertise discount sales, so it is best to ask if the store has a range of discount motorcycle jackets. There are number of jacket closeouts that offer reasonably priced jackets.

Discount motorcycle jacket prices should be compared with existing market prices to conclude whether a purchase is reasonably priced or not. Manufacturers may even offer discount jacket codes and coupons that can be redeemed to reduce purchase prices. Manufacturers have capitalized on faux leather varieties that aptly imitate original leather styles. Before finalizing a deal potential buyers should indulge in comparison-shopping. This helps evaluate price, features and styles while availing of the best deal to meet individual needs.

Women's Motorcycle Jackets

2007-01-09T20:45:00.000-08:00

When deciding upon office, casual or party wear people tend to be choosy. This is important, as individuals need to exercise their power of judgment to understand the style of clothing that suits them best. In most cases, people use the same judicious approach to buy motorcycle jackets. When women purchase motorcycle jackets, a variety that offers comfort and protection in case of an accident is sought. Before finalizing a deal, buyers may refer to jacket guides and reviews for a better understanding of important selection criteria.

Women's motorcycle jackets are available in an assorted range. There are collections for specific weather conditions as well. Manufacturers also offer a wide range of leather women's motorcycle jackets. These collections are specially designed keeping in mind the rider's needs during a specific season. Inappropriate jacket selection can cause irritation and distraction when riding. These jackets have varying linings, padding, lengths and material choices that can provide optimum comfort when riding.

Keeping in mind modern trends and styles, manufacturers also provide a range of fashionable jackets. In case they are designer wear, prices tend to be steep. A major breakthrough in jacket designs is the incorporation of radium patches, linings and the use of bright colors. This is known to make others take note of a motorcyclist and in turn can effectively reduce accidents. When purchasing a motorcycle jacket, women should be clear-sighted about their needs. This includes zipper styles, pockets, special linings and ventilation options. There are women's motorcycle jackets that can be integrated with lowers through a simple zipper. It is important to make a purchase that is worth its value rather than making expensive purchases that are rarely worn. Women's motorcycle jackets are easily available at local and online stores. People should do some comparison shopping before settling on a jacket, to get the best deal.

Kids Motorcycle Jackets

2007-01-08T20:45:00.001-08:00

When manufacturers advertise kids' motorcycle jackets it does not mean that children are permitted to ride these bikes. They are simple jackets that are made for the kids who are usually pillion riders. These children are faced with the same elements and dangers that a rider is exposed to. When designing kids' motorcycle jackets, manufacturers tend to be more innovative and creative with their designs and choice of colors. This is because though kids nowadays are style conscious and they can confidently wear bold, loud clothes.

Kids' motorcycle jackets sport fancy and current cartoon themes, Disney characters and rainbow colors. However, they are fitted with the necessary padding and linings to offer optimum protection and comfort. Children?s jackets tend to use additional Velcro and also have multiple pockets. Kids' motorcycle jackets are available for toddlers and older children. They can also be altered according to individual needs. These jackets also tend to use elaborate patchwork designs. A range of these kids' motorcycle jackets are also available.

Since kids are seated behind the driver, a number of these jackets have detailed radium designs that are reflective. This helps prevents accidents, as other drivers are able to sight the motorcycle from a distance. Kid's motorcycle jackets are available in summer, winter and rain collections. These are aptly designed keeping in mind individual weather conditions and needs. A number of reputed manufacturers even offer a dedicated line of kids motorcycle jackets for young professional bikers. These varieties are fitted with excessive protection gear and aerodynamic needs are considered as well. A number of children?s motorcycle jackets are fitted with suit integration. These varieties are fitted with special zippers and can be easily attached to lowers. However, it is important for parents to supervise these purchases in order to find an appropriate buy for these young enthusiasts.

Police Motorcycle Jackets

2007-01-08T20:45:00.000-08:00

When purchasing a police motorcycle jacket it is advisable to read the available catalogs to find the best sources and deals around. It is crucial to buy high quality jackets that provide protection and comfort. Before venturing out to find a perfect fit it is important that potential buyers know what they want. Police motorcycle jackets are available in various weather types. They are designed with special linings and padding. These include summer, winter and rain jackets.

There is a wide range of police motorcycle jackets available. However when buying them, people should not select types that provide no resistance and make riders look like hot air balloons moving at high speed. Police motorcycle jackets are fitted with fixed, detachable liners, seals and safety features. Rain motorcycle jackets have a built in plastic coat. These may also have suit integration zippers that allow users to fit their jackets with lowers, providing overall protection during the rainy season.

Police motorcycle jackets should be selected only after considering specific features like the free movement of arms and shoulders after wearing the jacket. Most police motorcycle jackets are of the non-leather varieties. They have adequate pockets and straps for convenience. Closers, zippers and Velcro attachments help acquire the desired fit. Since these jackets may need to be worn over extended periods it is important that they are fitted with adequate ventilation options. Police motorcycle jackets are fitted with reflective materials, namely radium lining to increase motorcycle visibility from a distance. These jackets may have stars and badges fitted on them through custom prints or patchwork. They are provided to officers through authentic sources. However, there are plenty of look-alikes and replicas of these highly respectable jackets available. In most cases, these would not have stars and badges, but are even available in smaller sizes.

Types Of Mini Bikes

2007-01-07T20:44:00.000-08:00

Mini bikes are the latest craze throughout the world, with more and more people getting involved in the mini bike scene. So are you wondering whether or not to get a mini bike? Well there are several factors which must be taken into account beforehand.

Firstly, do you know exactly what a mini bike is? Mini bikes are miniature replicas of larger motorcycles, most have a petrol engine, and are usually 39cc or 49cc although many of these pocket bikes are now being produced with a higher engine displacement, in some cases up to 200cc. Mini bikes are capable of very high speeds, with the slowest bikes still being able to easily reach 35-40mph.

Well now you know what a Mini bike is it is time to decide whether or not they are for you. If you think you would love the feeling of riding at 40+ mph, inches from the ground then you have found your ideal sport! Mini bikes are a great way of getting into motor racing, as they are relatively cheap with all the spills and thrills of racing larger bikes.

If you are still interested in buying a mini bike then you must ask yourself what you want from it. For example are you buying a mini bike to ride around with your mates? Or are you buying it to become the next Valentino Rossi? Well whatever your needs, there are certain regulations which must be taken into account.

Mini bikes are illegal when ridden in a public place, and can be crushed if used illegally. So if you do not have any private property or a track which you can go to then maybe you should rethink buying one.

If you are still up for getting into the craze, then you are ready to decide what type of bike you want to ride. There are so many different types of mini bikes available so you may get lost. So what do you want a mini bike for?

If you want to race the bikes in a league then the mini bike you buy must comply with regulations and must therefore be a race certified mini bike, these are usually more expensive than other bikes on the market but are far greater quality with more parts and performance bolt ons available.

If racing these mini bikes is not for you then you can look at the more affordable mini motorbikes, these are just as much fun, but do not come with the large price tag. These bikes however must be used on private property, with the owners permission, or you could face prosecution. Alternatively there are open races set up where bikes like this will be allowed to enter.

There are many different types of mini bikes available for you to buy so selecting the correct style depends on what you want the bike for. The most common style of mini bike is the small road style mini bikes, also known as pocket bikes or mini motos. These have road tires and look like road racing bikes. Usually these bikes do not come with any suspension and a very low ground clearance so make sure if you want a bike like this then you have a smooth, flat surface to ride on.

The next style of mini bike is the mini dirt bike, these are smaller versions of larger dirt bikes, they are built for going off road with larger wheels and more suited tires, as well as a more robust build. So if you want a mini bike which you can ride around a field all day then a mini dirt bike is probably the best choice.

If you want a comfortable bike with a 'cool' image then I think it is fair to say that the best mini bike for you will be a mini bike chopper, these look great with the looks of the larger choppers available today. These are commonly seen at bike shows, with a lot of the bigger bikes and do not look out of place.

Finally, if you do not feel too steady on two wheels then maybe a mini bike quad is the answer, these are tiny quad bikes, about the same size as a mini bike but with four wheels. These also usually have the same engine as most smaller mini bikes. These are great if you prefer riding quads over motorbikes.

How To Buy Quality Leather Motorcycle Saddlebags That Fit Your Motorcycle Perfectly

2007-01-07T20:43:00.000-08:00

When people cruise they somewhat experience a magical feeling. To enjoy this feeling to its fullest one must be care free. This is where motorcycle saddlebags come in.

When buying Motorcycle saddlebags the following 2 factors are pivotal to consider.

1. Your budget. 2. The nature of motorcycle usability.

Once you have a clear idea about both of the above mentioned factors. You should go out to hunt for the perfect pair of motorcycle saddle for your motorcycle.

Step 2

1. Avoid motorcycle dealership to buy saddle bags as they charge top prices for the bags and often don’t even provide real leather.

2. Internet is a more suitable way to shop for the motorcycle accessories as you are under no buying pressure plus you have the most variety available.

3. Type in the kind of leather bags you are looking for in Google, yahoo, or e bay. Be specific for example if you are looking for saddlebags for Harley Davidson softail saddlebags type in the whole phrase not just saddlebags or leather saddlebags.

Step 3

Basically there are 2 kinds of bags 1. Throw over bags ( ranging from 100 to 200 in price)

2. Bolt on bags ranging from 150 to 500).

Throw over bags are easier to install and take of as compared to Bolton bags unless used with detachable brackets that cost between 100 to 170 dollars. Bolt on bags are usually made of leather unlike most throw over bags unless the manufacturer states. Bolt on saddlebags look better in certain cases on a bike.

Step 4

Once you have chose the kind of saddlebag 1. Match the leather tanage(color) with the seat and other leather accessories on the bike.

2. Match the hardware on the seat or tool bags on the bike to that on the saddlebag. For example if your tool bag has studs on it or your seat is studded it would be cool to have studded saddlebags.

3. Try to buy bag that are lockable, have quick release buckles and most importantly offers some kind of guarantee. Try buying from a company as rather than an internet seller as the companies respect there promises due to there capability and skills in the field.

Biker Road Trip: Jax Beach to Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach

2007-01-06T02:01:00.001-08:00

With bike week just around the corner, bikers from all over the country are pulling their motorcycles out of winter storage and cleaning up their leathers in anticipation of a motorcycle rally like no other. While Daytona is definitely the place to be the week of March 5th, Florida offers some great stretches of road through pristine landscapes to some great biker destinations.

About an hour and a half north of Daytona on A1A lies the bustling beach community of Jacksonville Beach, which is where we will meet for the start of our road trip- because, well, that's where I'm from! On any given day you'll find bikes and bikers parked and hanging out at the Jax Beach Pier parking lot. Just across the street is the famed biker bar Mango's, a great place for bikers to meet, have some good home cooking and shoot some pool. Summer weekends will generally find some heavy metal band performing outside on the covered deck. So put on your best leather motorcycle jacket and come on out to Mango's to start our first north Florida road trip.

Our first day trip will start from Jax Beach and head north on A1A to Fernandina Beach, a quaint little island town with its own unique attitude. If you follow A1A north, after bearing left at Mayport Naval Station, you will be cruising through the marshlands at the mouth of the St. Johns River and come to a dead end at the ferry in Mayport Village. A traditional fishing village, this is where most of north Florida gets their seafood. Shrimp boats, party boats, and deep sea charters line the docks, and you can even take a gambling cruise from here. If you're hungry, there's an old wooden shack sitting on the water that serves some of the best seafood available. Singletons is not much to look at, but it's been there forever and people drive for miles to sit on the water enjoying the freshest of Florida seafood, while watching the pelicans scrounge for theirs.

Taking the ferry across the river, you'll once again pick up A1A heading north. To your right you'll soon see a huge barren sandbar that was formed by the northern jetties at the mouth of the St. Johns. On the eastern edge are the jetties, the Atlantic Ocean, and a beach that is packed with babes of all shapes and sizes. The western side has a lagoon and the Fort George River inlet. A very wide beach at low tide, vehicles have been swallowed up and swept away by the Atlantic because of people parking just a little too close to the water, and taking a walk in the dunes. A great place for jet skiing, swimming, fishing and surfing, Huguenot Park also has a campground with primitive and RV camp sites and showers.

For the next several miles, you will be cruising through some of the most pristine and unspoiled wetlands in Florida. Island hopping through little and big Talbot Islands and the Timacuan Preserve, this coastal area is one of the few in Florida untouched by development, and will theoretically remain that way. Flora and Fauna abound, and nature lovers flock to the area in kayaks and flatboats to navigate the waterways in search of trout and redfish.

7 Reasons To Use Synthetic Motor Oil In Your Car, Truck, Motorcycle, Or Chainsaw

2007-01-06T02:00:00.001-08:00

So why do people use synthetic motor oils rather than sticking with the old petroleum based stand-bys which are admittedly cheaper?

1. Let's start with the cost per quart issue. Synthetic motor oils ARE more expensive at purchase. However, these oils last longer, requiring fewer oil changes. As a synthetic motor oil outlasts several changes of petroleum based lubricants, the ultimate out-of-pocket cost of the lubricant is less. This cost savings becomes even greater if you have someone else change your oil for you rather than doing it yourself!

2. Synthetic motor oils have a higher initial viscosity index and less viscosity breakdown as compared to coventional lubricants. They also have more uniformly sized molecules. This means that over the period of life of the oil, more lubrication, hence less heat and more protection is being provided to the engine. In other words, longer engine life.

3. Petroleum based oils may contain ingredients not found in synthetic motor oils. These ingredients often have nothing to do with the lubrication of the engine, but exist simply because it is too expensive or too complicated to remove them. The breakdown of these ingredients can result in sludge and other contamination. This not only affects the perfomance of the engine and its components, but contributes to pollution as well. While petroleum based lubricants are, as the words imply, "refined" from a "crude" product, there is a certain level of variability of product as well. Synthetic motor oils, on the other hand, are engineered to be of consistent quality. Additionally, they can be designed for specific purposes. For example, synthetic varieties can be found for the family car, race cars, motorcycles, chain saws, and diesel trucks.

4. Because of their ability to lubricate better and last longer, synthetic motor oils help your engine operate more efficiently and easily, therefore requiring less fuel to accomplish a given amount of work. This is money in your pocket, and, since the benefits of the oil's effectiveness extend longer, this is the gift that keeps on giving.

5. Regular use of synthetic motor oil means lower maintenance costs across the board, not just in terms of the oil changes themselves. Engines and engine components simply tend to last longer. It has long been known that one of the most important acts a car owner could perform to prolong the life of his or her car while lowering overall maintenance costs was to perform regular oil changes. When synthetic motor oil is used and changed on a regular schedule, the synergistic affect of lower lubrication costs, plus lower fuel costs, plus lower maintenance costs, plus longer engine and component life adds up to a tidy amount, not to mention the sales or trade value of the vehicle that has been kept in this manner.

6. Due to the lack of ingredients such as wax or parafin, which may be found in conventional oils, synthetic motor oils begin flowing effectively throughout the engine much more rapidly in cold weather. Again, this results in lower engine wear and longer engine life.

7. Less dependence on foreign oil. If all cars in America switched to synthetic motor oils, gear lubes, and drive train lubricants, billions of gallons of oil could be saved every year.

So, use of synthetic motor oils can save you money by making your engine and other components last longer, require less maintenance, and use less fuel. Repair costs will be reduced, your vehicle will last longer and perform more effectively. You will be contributing to the environment while reducing America's dependence on foreign oil.

Rely on Internet Local Search to Bolster Your Yellow Page Directory Category

2007-01-05T02:00:00.000-08:00

The Internet can promote your services in unlimited relevant areas that buyers are looking for

Even when they both have a website, a service business (like window blinds) has to use the Internet differently than an online business does. For example, a chiropractor needs to provide different information a trucking firm, to supply what customers search for. While they both can benefit from Local Search exposure, what information they need to provide about themselves varies greatly.

Break down the limitations imposed by category thinking

We've been trained by the Yellow Page directory to look for a business within its primary category section. But Local Search allows a person to find what they want under many more descriptive terms. They can search for a sub-category, rather than a generic listing like "contractor". They're able to find a narrowly-defined specific service or product - if a business has said that they offer it.

To be listed in the Directory, a business pays for each category where it appears. But a website has no such limitations. It can show numerous specific offerings - like Dog Training, Dog Nutrition, Dog Books, Dog Toys, etc. And it can promote each area to different buyers.

So your business benefits from showing up in Local Search results as many ways as possible. Go out of your way identify such specific, narrow topics. You might find yourself without any competition in such search results.

Studies show that people who search with specific terms are more motivated, and likely to buy "Minolta camera" instead of "camera". They're ready to take the next step.

Categories that draw the most attention

Not all businesses rely to the same extent on their Yellow Page listing to attract customers. And I'm sure that will turn out to be true with Local Search as well. The following list shows which directory categories draw the most visitors. But if your business isn't listed among the top, you've got even more reason to begin marketing yourself online.

Internet exposure can provide a powerful marketing boost for almost any type of local business. Whether you have a website or not, you need to assure that accurate information about your business gets picked up by every major search engine, and Internet Yellow Pages. I've found the most reliable way to do that is through Register Local, http://www.localsearchresources.com/register_local.html For a small annual fee they keep your business information updated and accurate on every online database that matters. And you don't need a website, if you don't have one.

Auto Insurance 101

2007-01-05T01:59:00.000-08:00

Auto insurance, as the term suggests, is insurance that you can purchase for your vehicle (cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, etc.). It provides protection against losses incurred as a result of vehicle accidents. While the product seems simple, there are many different types of auto insurance policies available for purchase. Depending on the policy that you choose, your coverage levels and types will vary. Broadly speaking, these are the types of auto insurance programs on the market today:

Coverage:

• ‘Comprehensive coverage’ (Comp) – This kind of insurance insures your vehicle against the cost of purchasing a new vehicle if it is stolen or destroyed in a fire.

• ‘Collision coverage’ (Coll) – This kind of insurance insures your vehicle against the cost of repairing the vehicle following an accident or the cost of purchasing a new vehicle if it is damaged in an accident beyond economic repair.

Protection:

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) - This insures against the cost of medical expenses and lost wages related to the use, ownership or maintenance of a motor vehicle. This insurance is mandatory in some U.S. states.

• Medical Payments (MP) - insures against the cost of medical expenses for bodily injury sustained in an accident beyond any expenses that may be covered by PIP.

• Legal liability claims against the driver or owner of the vehicle following the vehicle causing damage or injury to a third party.

While ‘Liability insurance’ covers only legal liability, ‘comprehensive insurance’ covers PIP, MP, as well as legal liability. In the United States, liability insurance covers claims against the policyholder and any other operator of the insured’s vehicle. If, however, any other operators live at the same address, they must specifically be covered on the policy. For rented vehicles, most rental car companies offer insurance to cover damage to the rental vehicle.

While comprehensive insurance covers most aspects of damage which can affect the car itself or the driver, there is one risk associated with buying a new car is not covered even by comprehensive insurance – once the car is bought, there is a sharp decline in its value. During this period (immediately after a car is bought), in which the remaining car payments exceed the value of the vehicle and thus the compensation the insurer will pay for a ‘totaled’ (destroyed, or written-off) vehicle, customers may consider purchasing ‘GAP insurance’. GAP insurance was established in the early 1980's to provide protection to consumers based on buying and market trends.

To scooter or not to scooter

2007-01-04T01:59:00.000-08:00

Scooters are an increasingly popular way to zip around to do errands, make parking a snap, and cut down on fuel costs. •Want to make a fashion statement ride a scooter, even large companies are using TV ads showing a pretty girl ridding a pink scooter wearing a pink helmet with scraf blowing in the wind to peddle their wares. •Forever being popular in cites in Europe, Asia, and Latin America they are smaller and easier to use than their motorcycle cousins, and have long been popular in cities in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. •But lately, the economics of scootering has helped them gain fans here in the U.S. With a final bill that won't exceed most credit-card limits, a scooter makes a great substitute for a spare vehicle for errands. That's why sales are soaring in urban hot spots such as Miami and New York as well as in the suburbs. These cities are setting the pace along with Seattle with huge parking problems and its urban generation adding to a real scooter fad. •With a basic operation of twist and go plus brakes like a bicyle first time time find the ease of ridding a scooter delightful. Unlike a lot of motorcycles of today scooters have a step through design that allows you to sit upright for all to see. •Many scooters have built-in storage space under the seat. They also have rear racks, bag hooks and options for more carrying capacity. •Storage capacity is just one important consideration when deciding on the proper scooter, and there are many models and options on the market.

Donate a Car: The What, The Why, The Where, and The How

2007-01-04T01:58:00.000-08:00

Donating a car is one of the most unique and easy ways to give back to the community. If you have a vehicle that you are not using, why not donate it for a good cause? Read below for what to donate, the why you should donate, the where you should donate and how you should donate your unused vehicle.

What You Donate?

Pretty much all vehicles are able to be donated. You can donate cars of any type, trucks, SUVs, RVs, boats, motorcycles and more. What you will need is the title in order to prove that you are the owner of the car.

Why Donate?

One of the first things that people question when they are thinking of donating a vehicle is why. There are many, many reasons to donate items such as these for charity. Donate Car for Charity is part of the Family Care Foundation, which is a nonprofit that assists with many humanitarian goals.

These goals include everything from orphans, AIDs Care, and medical relief. There are also focuses on computer literacy, those who are physically challenged, drug awareness, emergency relief, education and food programs. Finally, there are services for education as well as food programs.

How to Donate?

There are several different ways to donate depending on which program you use, what state you are a citizen of, and how you need to give the car. The very first thing you must do is that which is listed above: determine what item you are going to donate. This of course will depend on your needs and goals.

The next thing you must do when you consider donating a vehicle is to determine the value of that vehicle. According to Donate Car for Charity, you can deduct the entire price that the organization receives when the vehicle is sold. This helps keep you from overestimating or underestimating.

The next portion is form completion. Regardless of whether you donate your car through Donate Car for Charity or through some other organization, there is going to be paperwork.

Finally, the next goal is to insure that you have the title in hand when the vehicle is picked up. The vehicle is to be cleaned and emptied of all possessions. Arrange a time that will work through a towing company.

Express Your Personality With the Lowrider Bike

2007-01-03T03:34:00.002-08:00

The lowrider bicycle is all about making a fashion statement. A statement of personality.

The lowrider bike is also known as a "Chopper" or "Muscle Bike." It's just about the most distinctive bike out there - no so much because of the design, although that's eye-catching enough, but also because of what the owners do to their bikes once they get them.

What does a lowrider look like? Picture a Harley Davidson motorcycle, then take away the motor. The handgrips of the lowrider are the highest part of the bike, and the seat of the bike is down at wheel level. Sometimes the pedals are higher than the seats!

Lowriding first became popular among the Chicano American community, but now their popularity has spilled over into most urban areas. Dozens of lowriding clubs have been formed. Lowriders also refer to cars (which also started out in the Chicano American community) and there are lots of contents between car enthusiasts to see who has created the best ride. Competitions for lowrider bikers will surely not be far behind.

Once you've got a lowrider you've got to give it a custom paint job - from handpainted murals to all kinds of color schemes. Whitewall tires, custom upholstery, chrome rims...the whole range of exotic accessories lies before the new lowrider owner. Each lowrider is a unique piece of art - that's part of its appeal.

Aztlan, located in Chino Hills, California, is the number one lowrider bike manufacturer in the world, and if you check out their website you'll see the full range of lowriders available - before you get them home and start working on them so that they reflect your personality.

The Aztlan Lowrider Cruiser retails for $120, and consists of the lowrider frame, and wheels, a bent spring fork, bent sissy bar, and the banana seat. You can add a bullet light to that so you can ride it at night.

Then there's the Aztlan Gold Continental Lowrider, that comes with a gold flat twisted continental kit with chrome classic wheel, two gold mirrors, a gold bumper, and a gold bullet light. This retails for $260.

Among other styles Aztlan offers is the Birdcage custom - consists of the lowrider frmae, straight spoke wheels, a bent spring fork and sissy bar, banana seat, and a birdcage handlebar, seat post, birdcage pedals and nut covers, and a duck tail fender! This retails for $339.95!

Another company is the Mega Lowrider, located in San Diego. In addition to the bikes they offer all kinds of accessories, such as a heart-shaped steering wheel, upholstery such as velour grip and pedal covers, and bolt-on items like dice, skulls, or 8-balls!

Billy Lane Revisited Part 2

2007-01-03T03:34:00.001-08:00

We haven’t said much about Billy Lane in quite awhile now so I thought I would share my feelings at this point. As most of you know Billy is headed for trial in February unless it is delayed again or a plea bargain is reached. There really has been no news in awhile which is not a surprise. In fact, it has given me a chance to look at the tragedy without a lot of noise.

My emotions are in control and I feel smarter and better informed than in the beginning. I have also had the opportunity to talk with a number of builders who know Billy and I have asked each one of them about the issue. They know Billy better than most anyone so, there opinions carry a lot of weight with me. There are so many who offer an opinion like they are family members when in fact, they may have met him once or twice at shows, shared a drink, read about him, or seen him on TV. They draw conclusions based on very little. They mostly want to hang him or let him go. The emotions run high when it comes to Billy Lane. He was and is a controversial figure who represents different things to different people. I have yet to meet or speak with anyone who is neutral on the subject. People love Billy Lane or they hate him. This is part of the legacy Billy has built and part of what made him rich and elevated him to rock star status. He was on TV all the time. He was in magazines, at an enormous amount of shows, in newspapers and was for many the face of the industry. He was a hard drinking, anti-establishment, talented, outspoken, in your face kind of guy who loved the spot light and took great risks both with his own life and the lives of others. He was the standard for the rebellious, tough talking, womanizing biker that so many fantasize about. He symbolized the freedom seeking, non-conformist, motorcycle guy who many wanted to be.

Remember “Be Like Mike” in the adds for Michael Jordon?” Well, in the motorcycle world it was “Be Like Billy”. I think that Billy believed the hype. He felt like an outlaw. He thrived on the adulation, he flaunted the law, he rebelled against authority and he thought he could walk on water. I think the se beliefs are what brought Billy down. If you think about it, it was only a matter of time. As the great Indian Larry said “you can’t live life like that. you just can’t” When you peel away the hype things become more clear. Who is Billy Lane anyhow? Why does he matter to so many? What has he done to stir the emotions of so many? What has he done for society, what about the men and women in the industry? What has Billy’s mess done to them?

I am not about to try and explain Billy in depth. I don’t know enough about what got him where he was but I do know something about what got him to where he is. Billy grew up in Florida. He came from a family that no one seems to talk very much about. He went to college and studied engineering. He didn’t go to Cal Tech, Georgia Tech, R.P.I. or any one of the first tier engineering schools. He did go to school and he got a degree. His older brother Warren is a motorcycle artist and builder but, he is the antithesis of Billy. He is very private and lives in Miami. He too, is very skilled. Billy got out of school and went to work with/for Warren and then went out on his own. He developed motorcycle parts and holds several patents. He felt strong enough to go out on his own and he did. He started with nothing working out of a very small space. The rest is history.

Choppers INC was born, parts were made and sold, bikes were built and sold but, most importantly a trend began. In the early to mid-nineties the motorcycle industry took off. Baby boomers had some money, wanted some freedom, wanted to recapture their youth so, they started to buy motorcycles. The motorcycle is a symbol of freedom, rebellion, independence, and a feeling that is not new. It started a long time ago. The business had its ups and downs. The icon Harley just about went broke and sold out to amf. Yep, a bowling company. Willy G. and a group bought it back and now, it is one of the true success stories of the last 20 years. The industry was back and by the mid nineties was a rocket waiting to be launched. The boomers had money and a need. They wanted bigger, better, faster, prettier, eye catching machines. The custom and manufactured custom were about to really happen. Big Dog began and a great many of today’s builders started to build and make serious custom motorcycles. They also began to make serious money.

Billy Lane, Jesse James, and the Teutels caught the big break. The world of the motorcycle came to TV. There was motorcycle mania, American Chopper and Biker Build-Off. These shows made ordinary people some of whom had premium skills into rock stars. Jesse was well known out in California, the Teutels came from a small town in upstate New York, and Billy and Larry arguably became the face of Biker Build Off. They were on there more than anyone else. Russell may have caught up, Matt too. I’m not sure. Each of them appeared at least 3 times.

Well, in 2002 the Teutels were in a small shop, Billy was largely unknown, Jesse was well known but only in a cult-ish way and the same for Larry. Arlen Ness had been the most successful, well known name and has been at it since Billy was just a baby. Arlen is still considered the Godfather by most. The TV changed things and Billy and the rest became famous, rich, and were in a place they could never have imagined. The industry was white hot and is just now cooling off some.

Billy Lane is a talented, charismatic, symbolic, smart man who rode the wave. What is important to realize is that he didn’t invent the cure for cancer, he didn’t save the world, he didn’t change or create an industry, his innovations were relatively minor, he didn’t get a Nobel prize, he didn’t save the planet, he isn’t Henry Ford, He isn’t Carol Shelby, He isn’t John Delorean, He isn’t John F Kennedy. He is a guy who made a few bucks, presented an image, and stirred some emotions. He is not unlike Michael Landon (little house on the prairie), Buffalo Bob Smith (Howdy Doody), Pinky Lee, John Forsythe, Carol O’connor, or many others that caught a wave and rode it. He’s just a guy that most won’t remember and who really is pretty insignificant in the scheme of things.

Having said that Billy Lane is a man who at best was driving with a suspended license and hit and killed a man. At worst he is reckless drunk who thought he could walk on water and despite numerous warnings proceeded to drive a vehicle, cross a double yellow line, drive with a suspended license, and take an innocent life. He has hurt the industry and his brothers and sisters. Corporate sponsorships are gone, appearance money is less, and all that I have spoken with say the damage is pretty severe.

Billy Lane should be treated the same as anyone else. If innocent he should be free. If found guilty he should be judged and sentenced just like anyone else. Is Billy Lane a tragic figure? Yes. Is what happened sad? Yes. Is Gerald Morelock gone? Yes. Will history remember? No. It’s time for closure and for all of us to move on. I will always be in awe of the charisma Billy has as we have had almost 60,000 people read just about Billy since September and the trial has yet to begin.

Scooter Driving Safety Issues

2007-01-02T03:33:00.000-08:00

Scooter drivers of all ages, just as automobile drivers, have a responsibility to take safety precautions before jumping behind the wheel. For young scooter hobbyist, parents are also responsible for making sure their child driver has a basic knowledge on how to function the motor scooter. Supervisors of scooter riding and the drivers must always know the proper safety equipment to use and use it. Though motor scooters have the ability to serve multiple purposes, they are growing especially fast in popularity among commuters in areas such as college campuses and congested downtown areas.

People traveling to near by neighborhood locations and to short distances for errands are also finding the convenient use of motor scooters for commuting. The advantages driving a scooter can offer are very obvious to some people because of the lifestyles they lead. Probably the favorite perk motor scooters offer commuters is the different ways using one can save money, such as by nearly eliminating gas costs and creating additional free or work time by allowing you to avoid traffic.

Each advantage of driving motor scooters is valuable to many people, especially in large, metropolitan areas, but those who have used this method of commuting have also been met with some resistance. Motorists who routinely travel by scooter know, or should know, the safety laws and regulations in their area but unsafe situations still tend to rise more often than they ought. When driving scooters the most problematic situations occur when automobile drivers do not notice or choose not to recognize scooter drivers as a legitimate vehicle.

Motor scooters are legal vehicles to drive on regular roads and the traffic laws and rules of the road are typically the same as those for other cars and trucks. This being the case, by law, there should not be a situation where a regular sized automobile over takes a motor scooter in a manner they would not use if it were an equal sized automobile. Awareness of the regulations on driving motor scooters is most likely the primary reason for road vehicles to violate scooter’s right of way.

Since driving scooters on legal roads is not a practice used widely in all of the nation, motor scooterist must remain alert for any harmful situations. For starters, anywhere you drive your motor scooter a helmet should be in your attire. While out driving around town it is advised to wear bright colors and use a whip flag. Both of these precautions increase the chances that other vehicles will see you and react properly.

The rear and brake lights on your motor scooter are important features that can also raise the awareness of your presence to other drivers. During day and night the tendency of automobile drivers following behind your scooter is to become distracted from any turns, signals or actions you are taking. Having bright, consistently working brake lights help trailing drivers to notice the move you are making, or plan to make. Some avid scooter drivers have installed a flash lamp that is also activated when the brakes are applied.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Sneak Peak At Detroit Auto Show

2007-01-02T03:32:00.000-08:00

Auto shows (also known as car shows) are great events wherein car and auto manufacturers are actually able to show off and display their production vehicles and even some of their coolest (or even weirdest) concept vehicles that they have had been able to create and produce. For example, Chevrolet might want to also display their very best Chevrolet body parts during such a show so as to inform the whole auto world about the products that they are sending out in the market.

Companies who manufacture and produce auto parts, vehicles, and other automotive merchandise also do make sure that their wares are seen by everybody and by anybody during auto shows. In fact, most companies do try to take advantage of such events so as to introduce to the rest of the motoring world their newest wares and products.

On this note, it looks like Chevrolet has found a new purpose for venturing into the auto show scene. The company has used the most recent Detroit auto show to show off and intrigue show goers about the kind of look, style, and design that its 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has got to offer.

According to Chevrolet, the company would actually be sending out the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu this coming January at the North American International Auto Show this 2007. However, a sneak peak has been sent out during the Detroit Auto Show. Those who would be interested in purchasing the Chevrolet Malibu can actually do so for the units would be arriving in showrooms and dealerships late 2007. The company also did disclose that they have chosen their Kansas Assembly plant in Fairfax to do the actually production of the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.

So what can be found on these sneak peeks at the newest Chevrolet Malibu? Well, the picture that was released actually did show a part of the front of the vehicle. There is a dual port grille being displayed and the company has been reported to describe the photo as the “new face of Chevrolet” although people have still yet to judge if indeed it is true.

Customized Harley Davidson Is Hot

2007-01-01T03:31:00.001-08:00

Each Harley-Davidson rider wants to have a unique Harley that is distinct to any of the existing Harley in the world. This creates more pride and excitement to the owner. This is why customized Harley-Davidson is the second factory of either a brand new or pre-owned Harleys.

So what is customized Harley-Davidson?

Have you been to auto shows like the LA Auto Show or the Detroit Auto Show? Have you seen those custom made vehicles that are truly one of their kinds? Have you seen those flashy designs that could turn the heads of every bystander every time these custom vehicles pass by?

Customized Harley-Davidson motorcycles are motorcycles that have been modified and fabricated to become the sole possessor of a particular look or theme. Customized Harley-Davidson projects a unique blend of the owner’s personal impression and the artistic expression to a subject. The customized Harley-Davidson is a work of art that could be a source of inspiration for other future customized vehicle but could not be exactly imitated.

Why is customized Harley-Davidson hot?

No matter where you go, a Harley-Davidson is a head turner. What more if it is a customized Harley-Davidson? How much attraction could it get if the Harley has been modified with all the latest, exotic or techy stuffs available?

Since the owners would want to create an attractive Harley-Davidson motorcycle that would signify their inner impression, customization is the only resort. Thus, when a customized Harley hits a show or the road, no one can resist its power to turn heads. Customized Harley-Davidson is hot because of these reasons.

Where can you acquire custom Harley-Davidson services?

There several sites on the internet like the http://www.cyrilhuze.com and the http://www.hogpainter.com that are more than willing to transform your Harley motorcycle into work of art. They will convert your Harley-Davidson into a more exciting machine to ride. They will make your Harley-Davidson the best one in town. Hear of the Hot Rods? They are the most popular car restorer and fabricators in the United States. They have entries in auto shows around the world. They have won several prestigious awards by converting simple cars into mean machines. They have services top brand of cars from popular people.

You too can acquire such service with top Harley-Davidson custom makers. You can contact them from their sites or visit them at their addresses and have your Harley motorcycle the real image it deserves.

Riding Over Obstacles On A Chopper

2007-01-01T03:31:00.000-08:00

Riding over obstacles with a regular motorcycle is not usually a problem. The suspension and bike setup on most modern street motorcycles allows for a smooth transition over all but the largest obstacles.

Think about the recommended Motorcycle Safety Foundation procedure for crossing a 2x4 in the road or hitting a "pothole" that is 2" or so deep... you should try to cross at or near a 90-degree angle, stand up on the foot pegs to use your legs as shock absorbers, roll on the throttle a little to lighten the front-end as you cross the obstacle (and rolling off as you cross it to avoid throwing the obstacle up behind you), clear over the obstacle, and ride on.

With a chopper the procedure is slightly different. The greater than normal rake, extended front forks, far-forward controls, minimal (if any) rear shock travel, and low ground clearance requires more faith and strength and will take some practice to be able to complete the procedure safely. Of course, the best course of action is avoid obstacles completely (they say chopper riders are the most vigilant road surface scanners) but that just isn't realistic on today's roads.

My aching spine today tells me that I need more practice after hitting a pavement "bump" of approx. 2-3" yesterday on the highway.

The key to successfully crossing an obstacle on a chopper is having faith in the handlebars (and the strength in your arms/back) so you can pull yourself up off the seat enough to allow the rear tire to ride over the obstacle while keeping the bike under control.

It takes some practice... especially for the larger obstacles... and I would recommend you try it a few times on your motorcycle before you are on the highway going 65 MPH and notice the pavement squished up 3" across the lane right in front of you!

Tips On Getting A Motorcycle Helmets For The Child

2006-12-31T03:30:00.000-08:00

Children should learn about safety at a young age. This will prevent the occurrences of accidents happening inside the home or whenever the family decides to go out.

When the kids are in the car, the seat belt must be securely fastened. Should the same child decide to go on the motorbike, the individual must never leave home without wearing a helmet.

The motorcycle dealer where most models are sold may not have the right kind that will fit the child. Parents will have to check out the nearest sporting goods store so this can be fitted before deciding to buy it and bring this home.

Here are a few tips that parents and children must know when choosing a motorcycle helmet.

1. This should be made of strong material that has a sticker certifying it has passed numerous tests.

2. This should be put on by the child and worn for several minutes. This will determine if this is comfortable for the user for those short and long trips.

3. The right straps must be chosen for the helmet. This will make sure that the head gear will not come off should the motorcycle suddenly accelerate or stop.

4. The helmet purchased should come in bright colors such as red, white, yellow or orange. Though some people think its best to get the kind in black, the reason for getting it in such colors is for drivers to see the motorcycle in front.

5. Before buying the helmet, the person should check it meticulously for cracks, loose padding, frayed straps or exposed metal since this could cause problems in the future for the user. If there are, perhaps the sales person can check around in the back for a newer or better one that has the same specifications that was previously chosen.

Most motorcycle helmets come in just one color. If the person feels that this may not be visible to the driver in the back, one can always buy some reflective stickers, which can be placed in the rear on in the sides.

This can be purchased in auto detailing shops. If there are none that the child likes, then its time to check online or make a customized one.

The motorcycle helmet is a life saving device. People should follow the tips mentioned in getting the right one because this could save the child from serious injury should an accident take place.

Motorcycle Cover – You And Your Bike

2006-12-31T03:29:00.000-08:00

Statistics say that 10,000 bikers in the UK cancel their insurance policies over the winter months every year.

Many bike owners will lock away their two wheels but unfortunately, even when locked in a garage, their bikes remain at risk.

Thieves are quite aware that many motorbikes are stored in garages over the winter months and over 600 bikes are stolen every month.

If you have cancelled your policy and your bike is stolen you cannot make a valid claim. However, it should be possible to reduce the cover, save money and still maintain the essential minimum cover against fire and theft over the winter.

An annoying feature of existing motorbike insurance policies is that discount bonuses are not able to be accumulated over time. You may be able to get some form of discount should you remain claim free for a certain period with the same insurer, but this is a rare occurrence.

There are a few types of motorcycle insurance policy, Specified Rider Policy, Specified Bike Policy, Third Party Insurance and Comprehensive Insurance. A specified rider policy will specifically cover the rider and not the bike. The benefit of this policy is that it will allow you to ride any motorcycle up to a specified size.

A specified bike policy is directly the opposite and will only cover the motorbike and not the rider. This would be a suitable policy if you wish to insure a number of riders on the same bike.

Unfortunately for motorbike riders, particularly younger riders, they will have to pay higher premiums for their insurance policies due to the increased risk of their chosen method of transport.

Third Party is the legal minimum type of insurance and the cheapest. The 'third party' is any person you might injure or property you might damage. You will not be paid for anything else and you will still have to pay the excess.

Comprehensive Insurance is the most expensive and the one that pays for repairs to your motorcycle if it is damaged in an accident. It also means that if the accident was not your fault you do not need to wait for the other party's insurance to come through as your insurance will pay anyway. However, you will have to pay the excess but you will get it back when the others party's insurance reimburse your insurance company. These policies often include extras such as breakdown cover included.

Some of the key factors affecting premiums are age. Young motorcyclists have an alarmingly high accident rate and, according to statistics, are far more likely to be involved in an accident than more mature riders. The damage they can cause to themselves is very often costly and long lasting.

Occupation is also a deciding factor of premiums. Workers who spend many hours on the road travelling from one location to another will be subject to much higher premiums the more hours that are spent on the road the more likely accidents occur.

If you have made any claims in recent years for driving related accidents you should expect this to be reflected by a higher than average premium.
Security devices such as immobilisers, alarms, steering locks and other security devices are only useful if they are activated. However their presence will result in a significantly lower premium, particularly in inner city areas.

As with any motor insurance, the more powerful the bike, the higher the premium is likely to be. The make of the bike may influence the premium also. Expensive bikes are also likely to attract higher premiums.

As with cars, most motorbikes will depreciate quite rapidly. In the event of a material damage claim, insurance companies will only pay the current market value of your bike. In these circumstances it may not be worth paying the additional premium for comprehensive cover over third party, fire and theft only.

If you get points on your license for speeding, dangerous driving etc your premium will go up, if you are disqualified for a period you will find insurance is very expensive when you get your license back.

You can sometimes get discounts because of the training you have done, passing an advanced test will usually get you a discount.

All of the above affect your premium, but it will also vary when the insurance companies are trying to balance their risks and you will usually find big differences in prices. Do your research though and don’t just go for the cheapest as sometimes, insurance company's try to reduce premiums by reducing the cover.

Remember it is illegal to ride without insurance and always remain honest with insurance companies. If they were to discover that you have not told them something that they should have known, you may find that your insurance is invalid. Aside from the fact that they would not pay a claim, this could also leave you to prosecution for driving without insurance.

Super Cross and Extreme Sport Stadium Lighting

2006-12-30T05:04:00.001-08:00

Adrenaline rushing into their veins with such intensity everyone in the stadium can feel, it the extreme sport man is at his peak. Human energy is felt through out the event arena. But we can do nothing with this energy, we cannot use it to power up the stadium lights or harvest it. Or can we?

In fact we can, harvest some of this energy along with the roar of the engines and motors. You see when fans scream, clap their hands and stamp their feat they produce vibrational energy that is quite intense and even collectable. I propose to use this energy to light up the entire stadium like never before, without plugging into the power grid. How so? By placing large sandwich sheets in series. Each sheet with a taunt film on the vibrational side and small copper lined tubes inside, hundreds of them running perpendicular to the sheets, with magnets inside bouncing back and forth. These magnets will charge a capacitor and be hooked up to an LED lighting system using fiber optics or reflectors, each one hooked up to a .2 to .5 watt light. With hundreds of thousands of lights hooked up in a composite format, like the eye of an insect, it will light up the track and since the lights can shine down on the track in the direction of the race it would be like daylight without the light pollution associated with stadium lights in large cities. Maybe with free lighting costs they can lower the ticket prices?

The tunnels to the snack bar and restrooms indeed also echo and vibrate and can be lit up just as easy. Currently this technology is being used in those little flashlights you see advertised on television that you shake and they light, but you never need batteries. This idea of lighting up the stadium, tunnels, snack bar, bathrooms and even the parking lot would be is using that technology on a larger scale with miniaturized parts making up the guts between the sandwich sheets. Let there be light, thru vibrational energy and there was. Everyone loved it, even when the city lost power that night no one even missed a beat, they had no idea the city had gone dark. Think on it.

Living in Fear, Riding in Terror

2006-12-30T05:03:00.000-08:00

Since I bought my 2000 K12, I have been scouring the pages of the BMW LT riders website for all the information I can glean from them. I've done that for every bike I've owned since the internet was invented -- find a discussion group, get on board, and learn what I can about the bike before I manage to accomplish harm due to ignorance. The BMW group is great, full of information and experience, just what I need to get the most out of what I am already convinced is one incredible motorcycle.

But I must tell you, it hasn't all been joyful. Although I do express my sincere appreciation to the owners and maintainers of the site, and to all the contributors who have shown me what to look for and how to fix things, you should also realize that you've made me a nervous wreck. You've made my life a living hell -- a hell on wheels, so to speak.

I mean, how can I start up and ride my beautiful new K1200LT? I will only ride in fear. So many things to worry about...

I fear a mysterious haze will cloud my windshield, resulting in my instrument lights blanking out, my speedometer being too slow, and my radio playing static. I'm afraid I might get confused and put 880's in the crankcase, Dot 4 in the tires, and 15W50 in the clutch reservoir. Or worse, that I will inadvertently ask the question aloud to the group, "What's the best oil to use?" and find myself engaged eternally on a battlefield from which no warrior returns unscathed, and in which so many have died.

I'm afraid my brake fluid will become contaminated, causing my front wheel to wobble at low and/or high speeds, thus infecting my on-board computer with a virus and causing my highway pegs (J-Pegs) to turn to GIFS. I have grave concerns that the increased output from an amplifier upgrade will almost certainly cause my mirrors to fall off, and that in the process of turning around to pick them up off the roadway, I might kick my shift lever too hard in its ball joints. That is certain to make its rear brake screech loudly, I just know it.

I'm already convinced I have more options than money, and I know I can never afford to pay 600 bucks for a 200 dollar pair of armrests. But my more immediate concern is that my bike won't like its new battery and will start vibrating strangely at 4,236 RPM's. Or worse, flip itself off it's kickstand in a spiteful snit.

I worry and worry about what a MoDITec is, and I fear I may never find out. I fear I might not have one on my bike, and then I turn around and fear that perhaps I do. And I lost sleep last night playing with my own autocomm, and now I'm afraid I might be going blind, else my headlights are surely too dim.

These things are stressing me greatly -- so terribly, in fact, that I think I just need to get on and ride this beautiful bike, and abandon my fears. But I'm still waiting for the UPS man to bring my oil change kit.

Kawasaki Motorcycles - Independent in Thoughts and Actions

2006-12-29T03:28:00.003-08:00

The story of Kawasaki Company goes back to 1924, at that time involved into metallurgy and the aircraft industry.

In 1949, they decided to enter the motorcycle industry producing engines that could be adapted to motorcycles.

FIRST KAWASAKI MOTORCYCLES PRODUCTS  Motorcycle Engines

In their line you could find a 60 cc two-stroke, as well as a 150cc and a 250cc four-stroke engines developed with technology from BMW; company whom with they had had relationships since their beginnings in the aeronautical industry.

It wasn't until 1954 that Kawasaki Motorcycles produced their first complete motorcycle under the name of Meihatsu (a subsidiary of Kawasaki Aircraft Co.).

Almost at the same time, they also tried to introduce their own line of scooters to the market, but they soon realized they couldn't compete against the two giants of the scooters industry for those days: the Fuji Rabbit and the Mitsubishi Silver Pigeon.

And now before continuing with Kawasaki Motorcycles history, I have to open a big parenthesis…

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE HISTORY OF KAWASAKI MOTORCYCLES

We cannot talk about Kawasaki without mentioning another make that will definitely help Kawasaki become as well as Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha one of the big players in the Japanese Motorcycles scene:

--> Meguro Motorcycles: better know in that time as the "senior make and the king of four strokes".

Meguro entered the motorcycle industry in 1937. Having a good relationship with the government, the people at Meguro took advantage of the army orders.

Their first motorcycle was the Z97: a 500cc rocker-valve motorcycle influenced by the Swiss Motosacoche. It's worth mentioning this model was a success for the factory and the Z97 was in production till the fifties.

Along the years, Meguro produced some very nice 250cc and 350cc rocker-valve, single cylinder models as well as high performance twins. All of them with a very strong British influence. Then and thanks to the commercial success they were living, they also launched a rocker-valve 125 cc for their low end range and a twin cylinder 650cc to accompany the already existing 500cc.

But it was in 1958, when Meguro tried to get rid of their British influence, when things started to go wrong...

Based on a winning prototype of Mount Asama (one of the biggest races that time), Meguro Motorcycles produced three nice and elegant machines with overhead camshaft: the 125cc E3, the 250cc F and the 350cc Y A. Unfortunately these bikes turned out to be too heavy and didn't get the buyers' attention. Meguro will soon return to rocker valve models.

Meguro Motorcycles remained as one of the top 10 manufacturers till 1960, but due to some bad decisions, as the ones mentioned above, the company started to decline and was soon bought by Kawasaki.

In 1960 Meguro signed an initial agreement with Kawasaki Motorcycles, and in 1962 they had completely disappeared.

….And this brings us back to Kawasaki Motorcycles...

In 1960, the company decides to give a serious push to the motorcycle division of Kawasaki Aircrafts:

They take out of the market the Meihatsu brand, they build their own plant of low end and low powered machines and buy Meguro.

These brilliant moves and decisions made Kawasaki Motorcycles have one of the widest range of models in the market. Kawasaki Motorcycles could offer at that time (1960's) from a 50cc moped-scooter to a powerful, high end and beautiful 650 cc twin cylinder motorcycle.

Its also important to mention that due to their very own nature, Kawasaki Motorcycles has always played the role of Maverick in the industry and that a feeling of independence from their main competitors has always been present.

Since then, many stories have been written, many models have been produced and many races have been won on Kawasaki Motorcycles, the truth is...

Nowadays Kawasaki Motorcycles is one of the major players in the industry and following their tradition, they nowadays offer a wide range of products for all kind needs and likes.

Honda Super Cub and 50cc Honda Cub The Volkswagen Beetle of Motorcycles

2006-12-29T03:28:00.001-08:00

A very clever design: the Honda Super Cub was the combination of a moped and a scooter. It attracted many people due to its friendly and non intimidating look. People who before had felt threatened by bigger motorcycles, approached and adopted this model very quickly.

It was a versatile motorcycle and had enough power to carry two passengers or a passenger with luggage. Its large diameter tires and wide seats made the ride almost as comfortable as the touring bikes from that time.

>> Honda 50cc Cub and Super Cub FACTS

- In 1952 Honda built 7000 units of this bike which represented the 70% of the entire production of Japanese motorcycles for that year.

- Thanks to this model Honda Motorcycles were absolute market leaders during 1953 and 1954.

It’s worth mentioning that those were very competitive days. There were many manufacturers competing for a very fast growing and demanding market.

- The Honda Super Cub was the equivalent of the Ford T or the Volkswagen Beetle for automobiles. As of 1992 Honda Motorcycles had built 20 million of these machines.

- The Honda 50cc Super Cub was exported to 120 countries.

As the Volkswagen Beetle, the Honda Super Cub didn't change much through time. Just take a look at the technical data below:

1959 Honda Super Cub Specifications

-> Four stroke horizontal engine.
-> 49 cc of displacement
-> Three speed semi-automatic gearbox.
-> U-shaped frame in stamped steel.
-> Weight: 155 lbs. (70 kg.)
-> Speed: 35 mph (57 kph)

1992 Honda Super Cub Specifications

-> Four stroke horizontal engine.
-> 49 cc of displacement
-> Three speed semi-automatic gearbox.
-> U-shaped frame in stamped steel.
-> *Weight: 122 lbs. (55 kg.)
-> *Speed: 50 mph (80 kph)

Yamaha Motorcycles - Creativity and Spirit of Challenge

2006-12-28T03:27:00.001-08:00

"If you are going to do something, be the best"
Ginichi Kawakami, Yamaha Motor Company First President.

Yamaha Motorcycles, under this motto, employing all its creativity, and with a very strong spirit of challenge, became what it is now: one of the biggest players in the worldwide motorcycling scene.

But Yamaha's history doesn't start with motorcycles...

It is back in 1877 that Torakusu Yamaha started with the Nippon Gakki Company that later would become Yamaha Corporation: an important manufacturer of fine musical instruments.

As the company grew, they explored several fields of opportunity in the textile industry and others.

During the World War II, the company set up a factory to produce airplane propellers. This plant played an important role in Yamaha's entry to the motorcycle industry as you will see.

After the war, Yamaha Corporation had to find new ways to use the tooling and experience that had been accumulated during their times in the airplane industry, and it was then when Yamaha Motor Corporation was founded.

It's important to mention that even though this new company was just another branch of Yamaha Corporation, it was placed under an independent management. In this case, under the guidance of Ginichi Kawakami; which turned out to be a brilliant move.

Before producing their first motorcycle, Ginichi Kawakami traveled a lot establishing what would be very useful relationships. He also sent out his engineers to Europe and had them learn how to build motorcycles, particularly from DKW; whom with they kept an underground and unofficial long lasting relationship.

One proof of this is that nowadays, the only two manufacturers in the world of mass-produced five side-valve engines are Yamaha an Audi (DKW - Auto Union).

One of the most important legacies from this international relationships were all the skills learnt by Yamaha's engineers on two stroke engines know-how. Other manufacturers as Suzuki would not reach the same level of development in this area till seven years later.

Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans!

2006-12-28T03:27:00.000-08:00

With the depreciation on motorcycles being so enormous after they are driven off the showroom floor, the potential for a buyer owing more on their motorcycle loan than the bike is worth it quite high. Owing more on your bike than it is worth is often referred to as the world of “up side down”.

Many people finding themselves in this situation discover that financial lessons are sometimes the hardest and most expensive to learn. Motorcycle loans of more than 48 months (especially without a down payment) put you in the position of owing more than the value of the bike.

Let’s take a look at this phenomenon.

First, the interest calculation your lender uses can make a big difference in your situation, especially in the first 18 months. There are two primary interest calculations, pre-computed (combined with rule of 78) and simple interest.

Pre-computed interest combined with Rule of 78, is typically the worst situation for a buyer because most of the interest is paid in the first 24 months. Therefore, in the first 24 months little of the monthly payment has gone towards paying down principal. If a buyer wishes to sell or trade in the motorcycle within this timeframe they will likely find themselves owing more than the bike is worth. Statistics show that the average owner trades in every 18-24 months.

Simple interest on the other hand, is much more favorable for buyers since interest accrues on the balance of the loan. However, buyers that extend their loans for greater than 48 months can still find themselves up side down with simple interest. This is especially true if a down payment is not made. The reason this occurs is that the motorcycle depreciates faster than the principal is paid; leaving the balance owed to the lender to be more than the bike can be sold for.

A common view that many people have is that they will just surrender their motorcycle to the lender if they are caught in an “up side down” position. If you are considering this option don’t! Your worries do not just end after your bike is surrendered or repossessed; in fact they are just beginning. The lender will sell your bike at an auction for much less than it is worth. You will still owe the difference between the amount you owed on your loan and the amount the motorcycle sold for at auction. So if you owe $5000 and the bike sells for $1500, you still are responsible for owing the lender $3500. To make it worse lenders may tack on hefty auction fees which you will owe as well. So the net result is that you are now responsible for making monthly payments on a bike you can no longer ride.

So what steps can you take to prevent from being caught “up side down”?

1. Find a lender that uses simple interest. Avoid lenders that use pre-computed / Rule of 78 interest calculations.

2. Always try to put money down on your purchase.

3. Try to avoid motorcycle loans that extend past 36 months.

Carbon Fiber and the Motorcycle Helmet

2006-12-27T01:38:00.002-08:00

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets are one of the most modern helmets around. The carbon fiber material used in motorcycle helmets refer to carbon filament threads woven into cloth or felt. It can also be a composite material made from carbon filaments that make up the protective shell of your helmet. This material can also be combined with another material such as Kevlar in the manufacture of stronger and lighter helmet models.

Carbon fibers in helmets are made by superheating an acrylic fiber that results to better strength and stiffness to weight properties. Carbon fiber composites can achieve the strength of metals at a significant savings in weight, the two factors needed in making quality motorcycle helmets.

Kevlar is created by dissolving a polymer in a solvent and then extracting the fibers and then spinned to form threads. Although Kevlar has properties that are similar to carbon fiber, it lacks compressive strength. By combining carbon fiber and Kevlar, one can get a laminate that has three times the flexural strength than that of Kevlar alone.

Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets provide a lighter yet more durable helmet than most motorcycle helmets today made from fiberglass. With carbon fiber motorcycle helmets, it is now possible to make more compact motorcycle helmets that are lighter and less bulky.

Most carbon fiber helmets are available for you from custom helmet manufacturers. But there are other manufacturers now beginning to make motorcycle helmets out of this extremely useful material. With it, motorcycle helmets become lighter, stronger and cooler.

There are now carbon fiber motorcycle helmets such as the THH T-69 that offers you a DOT approved motorcycle helmet. Its smaller shell design helps in making it ever the popular choice with most riders today. There is also the HJC AC-12 full face carbon fiber helmet that incorporates racer tested features for use by the ordinary motorcycle rider on the road.

It has features such as the Flow Through ACS Advanced Channeling Ventilation Feature System that provides extraordinary ventilation to make you feel cooler. It also makes use of an Anti-fog System to provide you with a clear view even in the coldest of days. This motorcycle helmet also has a built-in communication system speaker cavity to allow two-way or multi-channel communication when required.

With today’s technology, motorcycle helmets have evolved to provide you with better protection and a more comfortable riding experience. With all the choices now available for you, you would surely have that helmet that would work for you.

Finding a Cheap Motorcycle Helmet

2006-12-27T01:38:00.001-08:00

A cheap motorcycle helmet doesn’t have to be inferior to the more expensive ones. It is just a matter of looking for what kind of motorcycle helmets would work best for you. There are cheap motorcycle helmets that can perform just as well as the most popular brands out there. In order to look for them, you should be able to know how to find those helmets and what features and qualities to look for.

One of the most important features that you should look for in looking for a cheap motorcycle helmet is the comfort that it provides. The motorcycle helmet can either make or break your riding experience. An uncomfortable helmet can make any ride an agonizing experience. Helmet comfort is difficult to determine right away. In order to make your search easier, try checking out cheap but recognizable brands which are generally the most comfortable.

Check out also the soft rubber padding touching your head as well as the solid seal around the ears. Check out also the neck roll which cradles the back of your head and neck. When trying out a cheap motorcycle helmet, make sure that it snugly fits into your head without being too constricting. But also make sure that it isn’t loose enough to shift about your head.

Another feature that you should look for in a cheap motorcycle helmet is the level of safety that it can provide. The best motorcycle helmets are those that provide the most protection. In finding the best helmet for you, check for the fit as well as the interior padding that can provide you with the protection that you need. See to it that these interior pads can help provide the amount of safety and protection that you are looking for as well as comfort.

Try also checking out the helmets chin strap which must reach around your and under your chin comfortably and securely so that the helmet would not shift about unnecessarily. Make sure that your helmet is also the best fitted for you by wearing it yourself. A good fit should mean a helmet that is settled low on the forehead and just above your eyebrows.

Check yourself in the mirror while wearing the helmet to make sure that it is straight and properly fitted. For safety purposes, be sure to choose a DOT (Department of Transportation) approved helmet to be sure that your safety and protection is guaranteed. Try checking the safety ratings of the helmets that you are checking to ensure that you will be using a helmet with reliable head coverage.

How to Get a Florida Motorcycle License

2006-12-26T21:44:00.000-08:00

Ready to take your motorcycle on the open road? This article will take you through the steps to get your Florida motorcycle license with an extra emphasis on safe driving.

The Rules

Under Florida DMV guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit.

Applicants must be 16 years of age, pass the motorcycle knowledge test, a hearing test, and a vision screening. The final step is to pass the motorcycle skills test where you will demonstrate your competency in motorcycle operation.

All first-time applicants for a motorcycle endorsement who are under age twenty-one must complete a department approved motorcycle safety education course.

Prepare for the Written Exam

The Florida DMV requires that all applicants must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.

If you fail the exam, some states require you to wait until at least until the next day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.

All motorcyclists are encouraged to study for this written test so you won't take a chance on standing in line at the DMV Office only to go home empty-handed. Online motorcycle sample tests are available that provide real sample questions from the Florida DMV Motorcycle Exam.

Paperwork

Before you head to the Florida DMV Office, make sure you have the following required documents to get your motorcycle license. Examples include:

* Birth certificate issued in any state
* Drivers license or instruction permit issued in another state
* U.S. passport
* U.S. military ID card (active duty, retired, reserve)
* Florida ID card
* Social Security Number, if issued,
* Documents from a court of record
* Marriage certificate

On the Road

Once your licensing requirements have been met, a Class M endorsement will be added to your driver's license. Remember... the safe operation of a motorcycle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the operator, the machine, and the environment.

Mini Moto Mayhem

2006-12-26T21:42:00.000-08:00

Mini Motos have been around in the UK for around ten years now. The first bikes we’re cobbled together with parts that were already available. Small 2 stroke engines, mainly from garden machinery, were used. This type of engine is still used today for a few models and is referred to as an ‘industrial’ engine. But now the mini moto has been given an overhaul and has taken off in popularity.

Mini Motos are true miniatures of their larger Super bike cousins. All of the details that go into the high performance motorcycles of today are scaled down. The slick tires, the race replica bodywork and the “super bike” colours are all present. Although usually only 15 to 18 inches in height and weighing 35 to 55 pounds, it can be difficult to tell they’re not full size when looking at them from a distance. The exactness of detail adds to their 'coolness' and is most certainly what has raised them to such heights of popularity.

Although beautiful, Mini Motos go well beyond being mere exquisite scale models. Advanced engineering has catapulted them to high-performance levels at only slightly outrageous prices. European companies like Blata and Polini sell units for £1200-£2000 but less expensive and arguably less reliable ones are made by Chinese manufacturers and cost £180-£400. Most models have two-stroke, 47cc engines, which run on a combination of petrol and two stroke oil. Despite the awkward-looking position it takes to mount one, they are a sheer joy to ride. The short wheelbase and overall low weight give them a lightning-fast turn and the thrill of riding so fast and so close to the terra firma is indeed intoxicating. Safety measures are a must when riding Mini Motos. Gloves, elbow pads, knee pads, a leather suit and a helmet should all be worn for each and every ride. Without them, road rash is quite likely and worse injuries are possible.

Despite the size of these little wonders adults are getting them for their kids but more commonly, for themselves. Normal models can regularly go 35mph, all though parents can set them to max out at much slower speeds or … modify them to go faster. Moreover, models with more powerful engines are available. A GRC RX with 15hp 50cc engine by GRC Moto can be purchased for a mere £1999.

The Mini Moto explosion shows no signs of ending anytime soon and MM racing leagues have been in practice in the UK for around seven years now.

The Mini Moto Racing Association offers the following categories for you to test your Mini Moto.

Junior Lights (4.2 hp) Age 6 - 15 up to 35.9 Kg
Junior Cadets (4.2 hp) Age 6 - 15 over 36 Kg
Junior Production Age 9 - 15 no weight limits
Lightweight Production Age 16 + up to 74.9 Kg
Senior Production Age 16 + over 75 Kg
4.2 Senior Age 16 + no weight limits
Supers Age 16 + no weight limits

Race meeting are held around to the country at Go Kart and Mini Moto Tracks. There are also many ‘Arrive and Drive’ practice sessions hosted by tracks around the UK.

Take Care of Her and She'll Do the Same ( How to start out the riding season)

2006-12-25T21:42:00.001-08:00

Has your scoot been sitting in the garage all winter, just dying to be ridden? Or have you had the chance to only get her out a couple of times? If you answer yes to either of these questions, then this article will intrest you. This article lets you know what I do every year right before riding season starts.

Living in the lower midwest, there seems to be several chances to ride during the winter. Usually, a day here, and a day there. But for the most part the bike still sits on a pretty regular basis. Sitting, in and of itself doesn't do any harm to your bike but some of the less durable stuff has a tendancy to break down even when sitting. Another thing, in order to help you have a safer and problem free season it's just better to run the checks listed below.

Fuel - Gas tends to break down as it ages. If you've ever smelt a gas can that been sitting for awhile you know what I mean. If my bikes been sitting for a over a month, I will drain the gas and put new fuel in it.
Oil and Primary Drive Fluid - Now I don't know if oil breaks down by just sitting, but every March 1st I do an oil change regardless of the milage since the last one. One of the things that was suggested to me was that by doing an oil change after the bike has sat for awhile helps get more of the stuff that gathers in oil out.
Battery - Winters can be rough on batteries. I know some people who take theirs out during the winter and store it in a warmer place. I also know people who keep it on a battery charger all winter. I don't know what works best, but I do know that a battery that has sat for awhile might not have all of the kick it really needs. Before you go out for the first time, give the battery a good check. Look for leaks or anything that looks unusal. If you've got a battery charger, give it a good charge before you go out. It might just help keep you on the road.
Air Cleaner - During the winter the critters that live in your garage all scamper to find someplace to hide your air cleaner could be one of them. I pull out my air cleaner and clean it and oil it every year at the time that I do my winter oil change. By doing that I'm sure that my first ride will be a nicer day.
Spark Plugs - To me it just seems to easy to not pull the plugs and give them a quick once over. Plugs in general can tell you a lot about how your motor is running. Why not check them and replace them now, instead of on the side of the road.
Belts and Chains - Wheather you have belt drive, chain drive or shaft drive. Make sure all the parts appear in good order and everything that is supposed to be tight is tight.
Tires and Wheels - Make sure your tires look ok. That they don't have any cracks or worn spots and that tire pressure is good. (You should do this regularly). As for your wheels. If you have solid wheels or mags or anything other than spokes checking your wheels is pretty easy. You only have to check for any corrosion, or dings. If you have spokes, CHECK TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE TIGHT. Loose spokes can cause you to get a flat or even worse, have the spokes to break. Check them carfully.
Cables- During the winter you can get quite a bit of condensation in your cables. This can cause all kinds of problems. These might include rusting the cable or weakening the cable. Check them and lubricate them if necessary.
Lights - Make sure that all of your lights and other electrical components are in working order. Especially, at the beginning of the season, since the cagers aren't used to seeing us out there.
Chassis - Make sure that everything is tightened up. Some of us who ride bikes that have a tendancy to really loosen things up need to really check the bike over during this step.
Rider Gear - Now that the bike is already to go make sure you are too. Check your eye protection, condition leathers, and protect your helmet with a new headwrap. Also don't forget, you might still be wearing gloves so check those zipper pulls also.

All of these are important checks for starting out the season and during the riding season. You don't have to be a great wrench to be able to do these checks and there are several books available that can help you with these basic maintenance tasks.

Avoiding Excessive or Uneven Front Tire Wear

2006-12-25T21:41:00.000-08:00

All rubber tires wear down over time, whether they're on a motorcycle or automobile. However, you want to watch out for uneven or excessive wear, both of which can cause serious problems for motorcycle riders. If you pay attention to the following causes of excessive and uneven wear, you will extend the life of your tires and keep yourself safe:

1. Improper Tire Pressure - We have all heard about the importance of maintaining proper tire pressure at all times. Improper air pressure in your tire is a big reason for many tire problems and failures. Be sure your tires have the recommended pressure in them at all times.

2. Humped Roads -- Most roads are "humped" slightly in the middle or banked away from the center to allow rain and water to drain off. However, this hump can have a dramatic effect on one side of your motorcycle's front tire because the side of the tire closer to the center of the road will wear faster. There's not much you can do about this, and it can become very visible if you ride a lot. So be aware of this phenomenon and check the left side of your front tire often.

3. Disproportionate Cupping -- Cupping is a normal phenomenon on rubber tires that occurs when the brakes are applied. However, excessive use of the front brake can produce disproportionate cupping, when one side of the tire is more cupped than the other. Using the front brake will naturally put more pressure and force on the front tire to make it stop, thereby using up more rubber.

4. Wheel Alignment - While this problem is not as common on motorcycles as it is on cars, it causes uneven tire wear. Any number of things can cause wheel misalignment on motorcycles, including getting into a fender bender, riding over potholes, jumping over sidewalks and curbs, etc. It is a good idea to have your wheel alignment checked out at least once a year to make sure that a misalignment isn't unevenly wearing your front tire.

5. Shock Absorbers -- A bad shock absorber can wreak havoc on the handling of your bike and promotes uneven front tire wear. So make sure your shocks are in good shape.

6. Improper Loading -- The final major problem to keep in mind is improper loading of your bike, which causes your front tire to wear unevenly. Proper weight distribution is essential to being able to handle and steer your bike safely. Loading down one side of your saddlebag with tools or equipment can keep you from riding as vertically as possible, creating uneven tire wear.

So check your tires frequently, and keep these causes in mind if you begin noticing excessive or uneven front tire wear. Having the knowledge and taking the proper precautions will not only make you a safer rider but will prolong the life of your bike's tires.

How to Remove Your Mk2 Mini Moto Engine

2006-12-25T21:40:00.000-08:00

Many mini moto modifications will require you to remove the engine from the mini moto. This is why I have produced the following guide.

Firstly you will need to remove the mini moto’s fairing.

Start with the seat fairing, unscrew the four seat screws and remove the seat. Unscrew the screw at the front end of the seat fairing and remove the petrol cap. The fairing can now be lifted from the mini moto. Replace the fuel tank petrol cap and remove the fuel tank by pulling the rubber tube of the nipple on the top of the carburettor. You may want to double the rubber fuel tube over and secure it in this position with a clothes peg. This is to stop fuel leaking out.

Remove the bottom fairing by unscrewing the holding bolts (two on each side), this frees the bottom fairing from the top. Unscrew the two bolts on the underside of the bottom fairing. The bottom fairing is now free. The top fairing is only now held on by one last bolt located in between the handle bars at the front of the mini moto.

Once you have removed the fairing, you will need to take the chain off the front sprocket. To do this loosen the back wheel nuts and the tensioning bolts. The back wheel can now be manoeuvred toward the front sprocket loosing the chain. When the chain is loose enough you can remove it from the front sprocket.

Remove the pull start from the engine by unscrewing the three holding screws. Once the pull start has been removed you will see the wire that comes from the stop switch. Unplug this.

The throttle cable can be removed from its fitting on the top of the carburettor. Pull the rubber seal up so that the locking nut can be unscrewed, the throttle can now be pulled from the carburettor along with the needle valve and spring.

The next step is to Remove the Exhaust. The exhaust is fixed to the mini motos frame by a bolt located just under the seat fairing toward the back of your mini moto. Undo this bolt with a spanner and an alan key. The exhaust is fixed to the underside of the engine by two bolts via a gasket. Remove the two bolts with an alan key making sure that you do not lose the gasket washer. The exhaust can now be slid out past the engine and removed form the mini moto.

The engine is free from its mechanical fittings, the engine then needs to be removed from the mini motos frame. The bolt at the top of the engine must be undone first using the alan key. The three screws located on the underside of the engine are the last fixings to be undone. The engine can now be completely removed from the mini moto.

Frame Slider Design and Selection

2006-12-24T21:41:00.000-08:00

Call them crash protectors, crash bobbins, fairing protectors or frame sliders, all these products ultimately seek to do one thing - protect your expensive bodywork or the essential and often expensive structural parts of your motorcycle from damage in the even of a fall or tip-over. The frame slider concept is as old as the proverbial 'crash bar' and today there are as many designs and brands as there are models of bikes. The proliferation of these types of products testify to the success of the idea of providing a sacrificial item to absorb some of the damage in the event of a fall. We are by no means experts on this concept nor were we the first to come up with it, but in this article we hope to provide you with an unbiased view so that you can make an informed decision when you're ready to put down your hard earned cash.

Cost:

Cost of the frame sliders must be appropriate to the items that they are designed to protect. Price is not necessarily the best indicator of quality. Poorly designed frame sliders made of the nicest shiniest materials may not serve their purpose as well as well designed but less 'bling' ones.

Mounting Configurations:

The frame slider must be designed to mount securely onto a strong enough part of the motorcycle so that impact forces can be adequately distributed or absorbed. Here are some popular mounting configurations.

Fairing Mounted Frame Sliders

Sliders that mount onto the fairing with small fairing screws may provide some protection in a minor tip-over but offer very minimal protection in a slide. These sliders are not generally recommended for serious riders.

Frame Mounted Sliders - Direct

The most popular and viable mounting option is directly to a selected strong point of the frame. Sliders with this design offer the most protection and impact force distribution. The installation of this type of slider often require modification of the fairing and in some cases like the Honda VFR800, as extreme as requiring the modification of the coolant bottle. For this reason, many choose the first or the third option as fairing modification can at times be quite intimidating. This option is the most popular for serious sportsriders, amateur and semi-professional racers alike as they provide the best protection for the money. One other thing to consider when choosing these types of sliders is where they will be mounted to.

Many models of sportbikes offer several places to mount them, frame slider manufacturers all have their personal reasons for choosing the mounting location for theirs and many of them make that choice for the wrong reasons. An example is cost - a location that offers a two short bolt mounting location is cheaper than one using a long through the engine bolt choice. The former being a much weaker location. If you own an SV650 you will know what we mean. Another choice is the use of a bracket so that cutting of the fairing is avoided - see below (Frame Mounted Frame Sliders-Through-Engine Bolts).

Frame Mounted Sliders - In-Direct

To address some of the concerns owners may have about modification of the fairing, some manufacturers have opted for a design that allows for the slider to mount onto an offset bracket that then mounts onto the frame. This offset introduces a whole new set of variables into the mix. Depending on the degree of the offset, impact forces now include amplified torque stresses which will be applied to the frame mounting points. Offset brackets will need to be of beefier construction, but not so beefy as to stay intact during an impact while severely damaging the frame mounting points. This is often the most costly type of slider configuration as most brackets require ingenious CNC work and design. In some situations employment of a bracket is a calculated risk, in others it is just not feasible. No cut sliders are attractive to most bikers so do your homework and ask the manfacturer questions before you buy them.

Frame Mounted Frame Sliders-Through-Engine Bolts

The third mounting option found only on certain models of bikes like the Suzuki DL1000 Vstrom, TL1000S, SV650 and Ducati models of bikes allow for use of the long, through-the-engine mounting bolt. This method is by far the strongest available as impact forces are allowed to be distributed over a much larger area. This is also the second more costly design as these long bolts are quite expensive to manufacture. The design must be structurally strong enough not to break off when encountering the various types of impact forces but not so strong that these forces would be transmitted entirely to and damage the considerably more costly frame mounting points. In other words you want to sacrifice your slider before your fairing and then your frame in that order. It's a delicate balance and there is no sure way to ensure that any one design will accomplish this desired goal.

Frame Slider Material:

The choice of material used for the frame slider should be a balance of the following 3 requirements:

Abrasion Resistance - the material should be hard enough to be able to slow the bike down in a slide and not be totally worn down to the bolt half way through a slide

Structural Strength - the material should be strong but not brittle and snap off too easily on impact

Energy Absorption-the material used should have some energy absorbing properties but not be so hard that all impact forces are transmitted to the mounting points or fasteners (solid steel or aluminum materials are examples of non-energy absorbing materials).

Most high quality frame sliders today are made of some kind of nylon or other for energy absorption and with aluminum inserts for strengthening of the fastening points. The range of nylon types, with different levels of abrasion resistance and "brittleness" used is also quite varied.

Fasteners and Components:

Quality of materials used, aesthetics and quality of workmanship should also be considered when choosing the right frame slider for your bike. Look for high quality anodized steel bolts. Black non-coated bolts will rust in a week or less depending where you live. Stainless steel washers between your steel bolts and aluminum inserts in the slider also reduce potential corrosion problems. Socket head cap screws offer the smallest footprint allowing for a thicker and stronger slider dimensions and are generally much more expensive then regular hex-head screws. Nyloc lock nuts where applicable are another added safety feature. True, these are all minor considerations in the overall scheme of things but they all add up to the cost of manufacturing. One last thing to remember is to always try to use some form of thread lock compound like Loctite and to properly torque the mounting bolts to the manufacturer's recommendations. If you're not sure check out our torque reference guide.

CONCLUSION:

Where does that leave you the consumer? Well, we all don't want to think about the day when we will be able to justify the purchase of frame sliders. The reality is that as long as bikes have only two wheels, you can expect them to fall over sooner or later. Frame sliders are one of the surest and least expensive ways to ensure some protection for the expensive or sometimes irreplaceable parts of your bike. After all some protection is still better than none. Think about broken rear brake levers, gear shifters or even worse - punctured radiators or coolant bottles, when you're miles from civilization. The rule is the same in our opinion no matter what you're spending your money on - buy the best you can afford and don't be afraid to ask the manufacturer why their product is better than the plethora of other brands available out there. Any good manufacturer will be very clear about what differentiates their products form others so that you will be able to make the correct purchase decision.

How to Remove Your Mk2 Mini Moto Engine

2006-12-24T21:40:00.000-08:00

Many mini moto modifications will require you to remove the engine from the mini moto. This is why I have produced the following guide.

Firstly you will need to remove the mini moto’s fairing.

Remove the pull start from the engine by unscrewing the three holding screws. Once the pull start has been removed you will see the wire that comes from the stop switch. Unplug this.

Could Miami Become The Detroit For Choppers

2006-12-23T21:02:00.000-08:00

It will if Victor Cabanas, founder of Chopper Nation in Miami, Florida, has anything to do with it. He's the "Henry Ford of choppers." Because most choppers are hand made one-off customs requiring hundreds of hours to build, average prices hover around $60,000 and go up from there. He, like Henry Ford, realized you could open up the market to more buyers if you could reduce the price of the product. Henry Ford did it through the invention of the assembly line.
Victor Cabanas is doing it by replacing time intensive sheetmetal work-- such as pounding out gas tanks and fenders by hand-- with "stamping" those items from steel presses-- just like they do in automobile plants around the world. Henry Ford is quoted as saying, "You can have any car in any color as long as it is black." Chopper Nation will get you onto a chopper for as little as $25,000 as long as it is black-- the company's bare bones introductory model.
Despite using interchangeable parts, even the "Model T" version is unique enough to stand apart from the crowd with its unusual "twisted" downtube, a signature of every Chopper Nation bike. Choices in custom paint jobs and accessories will cost more. For those with more discretionary income, the sky is the limit. At the top of the line is a chopper that uses nitrous oxide (NOS) for an added rocket blast when needed.
More things we like about Chopper Nation:
They make their own distinctive frames. Many custom bike shops-- including the Discovery Channel's famous Orange County Choppers-- buy their frames already pre-made.
The location. If you live in south Florida, it couldn't be easier to get to their facility. It's right on the west side of I-95 at NW 108th Street in Miami.
They will be introducing a "soft tail" design at a comparably low price.

Where Have All the Sidecars Gone?

2006-12-23T21:01:00.000-08:00

According to the Oxford Compact Dictionary, the definition of a sidecar is:
sidecar. noun, a small, low vehicle attached to the side of a motorcycle for carrying passengers.
Well, I guess that's not a bad definition, although I have seen some sidecars that definitely could not be described as "low" in any sense of the word. Nor are all sidecars particularly small. In fact, when you boil it right down, the Oxford Dictionary's definition of a sidecar sucks! Maybe I should write and let them know.
Anyway, this article isn't about the Oxford dictionary's accuracy or lack of it, but about sidecars.
Where did they all go? You hardly ever see a sidecar nowadays, unless you are an afficionado, of course. When I was a teen, in the mid-late 60s, the law in the UK said that you could ride a motorcycle on a provisional licence up to a certain cubic capacity. I think it was 250cc or thereabouts. But, if you stuck a sidecar on, you could ride anything! So that was one reason why you saw a lot of sidecars in those days, although to be honest some of them really weren't any use for anything except making the rider legal - just extra wheels stuck on the side on whatever attachment they had managed to juryrig together.
The other reason sidecars used to be popular was because it was much cheaper to run a motorcycle combination than a car. In those days, insurance on motorcycles was not as prohibitive as it is today. It wasn't uncommon to see an elderly couple going out on a motorcycle (or even a scooter) with the husband on the bike, and the missus in the sidecar, well wrapped up against the cold.
I suppose the little group of fledgling bikers I belonged to should have had more respect for them, but we used to laugh at the pensioners next door with their Lambretta and its matching sidecar. Well, they did make such a picture. And anyway, they used to take it to a mechanic when it needed a service! We just didn't understand that at all, as we spent almost every weekend stripping down one bike or another, just because we enjoyed it.
The standard type of sidecar on sale in those days wasn't much to look at, in fact they could be downright ugly, but if you can get the balance sorted out properly when you hook them up, they are very practical. In the late 80s, we took one down to the Kent Custom Bike Show from East Ham in London, him and me on the bike, and the two kids AND all our gear for the weekend, including a whole crate of Budweiser, in the sidecar.
It was unbelievable just how much this thing would hold. We took with us a 4-man auto-erect tent, another smaller dome tent with a separate flysheet, the Budweiser, a two-burner camping stove, sleeping bags and mats for all of us, clothes, food, a water carrier... plus the kids, of course, sitting on the seat (the luggage all went inside the nose and in the space behind the seat). The weight of all this stuff actually helped it to grip the road, as it was normally a bit light, particularly on right-hand bends.
That outfit is long gone, as is the guy on the front, and I have to say sidecars have become something of a niche market. To be honest, they were already that when we took ours down to Kent, but at least you saw them around reasonably often. I used to know a guy in Ilford who had a Triumph outfit. He got it after he became paralysed from the waist down, to help keep the bike upright! I would often see him flashing by (his injuries didn't seem to have affected his enthusiasm for speed one little bit). But I moved away, and recently the sight of a sidecar outfit on the road has become rare enough that you get the impulse to flag them down for a chat, not that I ever actually do that.
Rare beauties So, what's out there? Can you still buy a new sidecar in the 21st century? Well, you may be surprised to hear that you can. In fact, there are at least a dozen different models available in the UK alone, mostly home produced.
If you're interested, there are three main sources available that I've been able to trace, although there may well be more.

Harleys For Sale Get the Harley of Your Dream

2006-12-22T21:00:00.001-08:00

The present article has been read by many of our visitors and greatly appreciated. Hopefully you will enjoy it likewise.
There are any number of people who have heard about Harley motorcycles. Buying this particular motorcycle is a dream for many people. They dream of driving over long stretches of road with no obstacles in their path but the wind. The way to see about this is to see what Harleys for sale that you can find.
The classifieds can give you an opening to look for the Harley motorcycle that will be suited for you. The price range of the various Harleys for sale can be either affordable or widely expensive. You must remember that Harley is not just a motorcycle it is also thought of as a lifestyle.
So if you do like the idea of owning your very own Harley then you need to be prepared to pay for all of the accessories that will make your Harley extremely comfortable for you to go touring anywhere that you want. You can find various dealers who will be more than willing to find you Harleys for sale that you want.
Sometimes you may want to see the various Harley showroom dealers on the internet as they maybe able to cut out the middleman and give you a great price bargain. You will need to understand that Harley motorcycles have been around for a very long time now. For this reason each model will have a different price range altogether.
You will have to select the Harley that you want from the various models and makes of Harleys that are available. The many Harleys for sale will be in a very good condition as they will be restored to a top quality finish that will attract many customers.
You can find dealers who will be able to sell you Harleys for sale can sometime mean that you can see what the lowest price for these living legends cost. Any additions that you might want to place on your prospective Harley can in most cases purchased at affordable prices.
Since Harley is considered as a long distance traveling motorcycle or a touring motorcycle you will need to consider the level of comfort that you want and buy the various accessories that will go with any of the Harleys. The showrooms that have Harleys for sale can sometimes have the accessories that will give you the look and comfort feel that you want.
Remember that Harley motorcycles are a way of living. The people who own these motorcycles think of traveling as a luxurious art that is slowly dying. When you look at any of the Harleys for sale means that you too have the chance to live that dream as well.

American Choppers is a Popular Show

2006-12-22T21:00:00.000-08:00

There is a television show called, American Choppers, on the Discovery Channel that’s helping to revive the motorcycle industry. It’s a reality television show that focuses on the custom bike building shop owned by Paul Teutul Sr. and his sons. Since 1999 the shop has been building bikes for people in New York and making a pretty penny at it too. It seems that as the show grows in popularity more and more people are willing to pay a lot of money for one of the Teutul’s custom creations.
The bikes that they remake are more like pieces of art with fins, chrome and flames painted along the sides. Those possibly looking for a new bike should know that their bike shop is called, Orange County Choppers, even though they are based in New York, they are also sometimes called the OCC. A funny play off of the name of the dramatic television series about young teens in California.
Since they’ve gone on television with their bike shop business the Teutul’s have made a bike for the United States Air force, lovingly called ‘The Raptor’ for $150,000. They have also created a custom made bike for NASA. The show has only been on for a few years but its done wonders for the Teutul’s bike shop and brought in lots of business. They have their name on all kinds of promotional materials and party products. You’ll find that there are lots of party supplies available with the American Choppers theme for your next party event.
If you have young kids who like watching them rebuild old bikes into new ones the American Chopper theme is perfect for you to use at their party. You’ll be able to create an entire decorated party with plates, napkins, and tablecloths. There are even related party theme supplies to supplement the decoration if you find that you need something for the décor that doesn’t have the American Chopper theme.

Cleaning and Lubricating Motorcycle Chai

2006-12-21T02:16:00.001-08:00

Chain is an essential part of a motorcycle and keeping it clean and lubricated ensures that you have a trouble free smooth ride, at the same time it helps increase the life of the chain as well.

Cleaning the Chain

While there are various ways of cleaning your motorcycles chain as well lubricating it, I prefer to use the good old kerosene (if not available then petrol) to clean the chain. A small brush dipped in kerosene cleans out most of the sludge. Although it is a bit time consuming, but it usually does the trick and leaves a thoroughly cleaned chain.

However if you wish to clean the chain even more thoroughly then the best option is to remove the chain, dip it in a pot filled with kerosene and then clean it with the help of a brush. After the chain is cleaned, wipe it with a clean lint free cloth and let it hang for half an hour to dry up properly.

Lubricating the Chain

For lubricating the chain I prefer to use 90w gear oil, it is thick enough to stick to the chain properly and usually is good enough to keep the chain lubricated for roughly 1500-2000kms if the chain cover is on.

Once again the best way to lubricate the chain is to remove the chain and dip it in a pot filled with 90w oil, this way the oil penetrates all the parts of the chain. Let the chain remain inside the oil filled pot for 10minutes and then hang it for half an hour to ensure excess oil drips out (put a pot under it else the you will be left with a lubricated floor). After the excess oil has dripped out, put the chain back on and ensure you put chain lock back on properly.

If you do not wish to go in to the trouble of lubricating the chain in the above mentioned manner, then you can simply apply the oil to the chain with the help of a brush. While applying oil ensure you put a coat of oil on each side of the chain to lubricate the chain thoroughly and ensure rusting doesn’t take place.

2 stroke oil: You can also use 2t oil to lubricate the chain in the event you are unable to find 90w gear oil. However the 2t oil is only good enough for 400-500kms if the chain cover is on.

WD 40: WD 40 can also be used to clean as well as lubricate the chain; it is usually easier then above mentioned option. However it is an expensive affair and requires quite a lot of WD 40 spray to clean and lubricate the entire chain.

Chain lubes: There are chain cleaner cum chain lube spray available in the market from Motul and cleans and lubricates the chain at the same time, also it is quite easy to apply since it is only a spray. However it is quite expensive to use it on a regular basis.

Chain Cover: Removing chain cover reduces the life of the chain drastically especially in monsoon months. If you have removed the chain cover then inspect the chain on regular intervals for signs of dirt and also keep on the look out for the chain noise as a hint that chain needs to be adjusted and/or cleaned.

Motorcycle Touring at Its Finest - Read Easiest

2006-12-21T02:15:00.000-08:00

I love touring the Rocky Mountains and experiencing it in all of its glory on two wheels. Riding the sweeping curves, tight switchback, and conquering the high mountain passes. Of COURSE you say, and I hear the rest of that sentence,,,,,"I live 2000 miles away, and don't have time to spend 3-4 days getting there, and 3-4 days back". Solution: FLY AND RIDE!!!!!!

Fly into Salt Lake City, pick up a late model Harley cruiser or "bagger", or even the "Cadillac" of tour bikes, a Honda GoldWing, and set off for your experience of a life-time. Utah has some of the best riding in the country. You can ride through the canyons of Bryce and Zion National Parks, or head west to the Bonneville Salt Flats and watch some amazing machines hitting speeds unimaginable anywhere else.

By using the FLY and Ride approach, you eliminate most of the time spent getting to what you really want to do,,,RIDE. Compound that with the fact that you don't put the wear and tear on your "baby" (and yes, we mean your ride), let the rental company take care of all the maintenance like those oil changes, tires, etc., and renting a bike at your destination becomes a very viable option. Utah has everything from the the Rockies to the Bonneville Salt Flats. A good day ride will get you to the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone or to the Grand Canyon, depending on the direction you set out. So think about the 1 or 2 weeks of vacation time you want to use this summer, make a commitment to explore the Rockies and West US, and give Kim or Steve Ray a shout at Escape Motorcycle Rentals, and they will help you make all the arrangements necessary to book a shiny late model Harley or Honda GoldWing. www.escapemotorcyclerentals.com

Steve Ray is a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCoach who has a background with a variety of motorcycles. He enjoys touring and has crisscrossed Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, South Dakota, Arizona, and as far east as Wisconsin. He is also has qualified for the Iron Butt Assoc. Saddle Sore (1000mi in 24hrs) and Bun Burner (1500mi in 36 hrs) Awards. He is a co-owner of Escape Motorcycle Rentals loves to share his passion.

Partying at a Motorcycle Rally

2006-12-20T02:15:00.000-08:00

For the motorcycle enthusiast, a motorcycle rally is a place to gather with other cyclists and have a good time. Such is the case with the Harley Davidson rally each year in Daytona, Florida. Of course, for those who go constantly, it is said the men are never sober the whole time they are there, but as a party planner, you can change that. Give the men and women something to look forward to after they have spent the entire day looking at all of the other motorcycles that have come to see the event, and they have checked out all of the new models that are being prepared for release.

Motorcycle owners are probably the most difficult to please because they are used to the thrills and chills of speed and fun on the open road, so you have to find some happy medium that will please them. That means finding something that is appealing to everyone who will be attending the party, and of course, you want to make sure you have decorations that are typical of a motorcycle rider and base it on the manufacturer such as Harley Davidson, Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, etc. Most of them have product stores where you can shop, and those stores usually include a variety of things with the insignias on them such as mugs, lamps, and other kinds of trivia items. Use these to create the theme of the party that you are hosting. Other items that you have at home such as leather jackets, belt buckles, and the like can be placed ornately throughout the room to give it the aura of a pit stop of motorcyclists.

Join in the party yourself and see how much fun you can have when you join that significant other in the parties with other motorcycle riders. By hosting a party, you can be sure that you will be included, and you can control how many people come. Make it private, make it fun, and you’ll be the hit of the night.

Saving Money Maintaining Your Motorbike

2006-12-20T02:14:00.000-08:00

While the old adage ‘if it ain't broke, don't fix it' holds, it's the thorough checking that 'it ain't broke' that counts. Many modern bikes have very long service intervals, and are vastly more reliable than machines of the past. But don't let this make you complacent, regular checks are essential to the well being of your bike and yourself.

Easy scheduled maintenance

Doing the simple work yourself not only keeps your bike running well and safely, it saves you money - especially if you choose pattern service parts as an alternative to their hard to get and expensive 'Genuine' counterparts. Often made in same factory as the originals, pattern service parts are generally as good as or better than original equipment.

While these recommendations are applicable to most motorcycles, always check manufacturer's recommendations for correct service intervals for your machine.

Daily checks

* Lights, indicators and horn
* Speedometer
* Tyres and tyre pressures - valve caps that indicate correct pressures are available
* Fluid levels - oil and coolant if applicable. Quality synthetic oil should be used for newer performance bikes, semi-synthetic for older bikes. A specific quality motorcycle oil like 'Rock Oil' should always be used
* Chain - if you're doing 100 or more miles per day this should be lubricated and adjusted as necessary
* Steering Does it operate freely without notches and uneven feel? Does it interfere with the operation of any cables at full lock?
* Kill switch functionality
* Side and centre stands - do they return to their correct position for riding?
* Brake hoses - can you see any chafing or banjo bolts causing weeping?

Weekly or 200 miles (whichever is sooner)

All the above, plus:

* Check oil level - does it require topping-up?
* Check tyre pressure - check with an accurate gauge
* Check battery - if not maintenance-free, then check electrolyte level and top up with distilled water if necessary. If you have an alarm or immobiliser fitted it may be worth giving it a charge (this is especially true if the bike is not being used regularly). The best solution is getting an intelligent charger, and having it plugged in permanently whilst the bike is garaged for any period of time. A battery left uncharged will have a shorter life
* Check control cables - lubricate as necessary
* Check brakes - pads and disks should be checked for wear and replaced if necessary; check and top-up fluid. Adjust drum brakes as necessary
* Make a full visual inspection - check for loose nuts & bolts and spokes if applicable. Fork seal leaks and any other oil leaks.

Monthly or 1,000 miles (whichever is sooner)

All the above, plus:

* Check spark plugs - clean and adjust or replace, anything other than a light/medium brown deposit may indicate problems
* Check control cables - adjust free play
* Check Idle speed - adjust as necessary
* Lubricate control lever pivots

Every 3 months or 2,500 miles (whichever is sooner)

All the above, plus:

* Change oil & filter
* Change air filter
* Check wheel and steering head bearings - grease and replace if necessary
* Check exhaust system for leakage

Every 6 months or 5,000 miles

All the above, plus:

* Adjust carburettor synchronization - if applicable
* Check overflow pipes - replace any that are blocked or missing

Every 12 months or 10,000 miles

All the above, plus:

* Replace spark plugs
* Check suspension linkages - for play, replace linkage, bearings, bushes as necessary

Laying up a bike over the winter:

* Regularly charge the battery - better still, invest in an intelligent charger
* Leave on the main stand - if your bike doesn't have one, kits are available for most bikes. Or invest in at least a rear paddock stand to get the weight of the bike off of the tyres, which should be kept correctly inflated
* Consider draining the petrol as this can deteriorate over time and can, in extreme cases, evaporate leaving a nasty deposit which can block the carburettors. At least turn off the fuel tap and run the engine until the float bowls are empty. Fuel stabilisers are available that can help with this
* Wax well and lubricate - all parts that generally need lubricating. Make sure the bike is completely dry, then cover with a dust sheet and keep somewhere dry, preferably not in the same room as a tumble drier or other condensation causing machinery. If you have to keep it outside, then invest in a good quality, breathable waterproof cover and cover the exhaust outlets with plastic bags

A quick guide to some common service parts:

* Brake pads - Generally for road use brake pads are available in two types: GG and HH, related to the friction coefficient of the braking material. HH offers more stopping power for a given force on the brake lever than the GG. But that doesn't make HH pads better - it's more a matter of balance, taste and riding style.

Some people find HH pads too 'grabby', especially on lightweight machines. Don't fit HH pads to the rear of bike and GG to the front, this will make the overall braking balance too rear biased, which isn't good. However many people find the reverse: HH on the front and GG on the rear very comfortable and effective.

Many newer sports bikes should only use HH pads, so check the manufacturer's specifications. A noticeable downside to using HH pads is that they tend to wear the brake rotor more quickly.

* Chains and Sprockets - there's a lot of misleading information given about chains and sprockets (sometimes even by manufacturers promoting their own products), whether X-ring lasts longer than O-ring, or whether one manufacturer is better than another.

It's actually a question of your riding style, how much use your machine gets, your weight, if you lubricate and adjust the chain correctly, the weather and road conditions. Suffice to say, if you pull wheelies, weigh 35 stone, don't oil or adjust your chain and only ride on wet salted roads your chain won't last very long! That said, if you don't do many miles in a year, you may find that an X-ring will last you longer than an O-ring - or if you ride like Barry Sheene, why bother buying an expensive heavy chain that will cause extra drag?

On a modern sports bike fitting a new chain and sprockets could give you 8bhp over the old ones, sometimes more, possibly about the same as an expensive 'go faster' ignition system, and it'll make the bike feel like new.

Custom Motorcycle Kits

2006-12-19T02:13:00.001-08:00

You have gone and searched at the many different motorcycles that there are for sale. While you know what you want many of these are just too far out of your budget for you to spend. This means that searching for that ideal motorcycle of your dreams is out of the question unless you know someone who is in the business of doing custom motorcycles. Now even this option may be a little more than you can afford. So how can you get that motorcycle that you have always desired? The answer could lie with the many custom motorcycle kits that are now available.

When you shop around you will discover that there are many different custom motorcycle kits. With all of these kits you will find the necessary equipment that is needed for you to begin the task of designing your own custom motorcycle. This means that the idea of having a custom motorcycle of your very own is no longer a dream.

You now have the potential to make the dream a reality. There are many types of custom motorcycles kits that are available but you need to think realistically about the money that you can spend on these and the time that you have available to build this motorcycle.

The upside of custom motorcycle kits is that the time you invest in making your new motorcycle means that you have an intimate knowledge of the inner workings of this vehicle. Therefore if something goes wrong you have the knowledge and the experience to fix the problem yourself.

This also means that you are not going to be spending time and money on repair shops or the massive costs that they will be charging to you. Instead you will be able to buy the various parts that you need or get something entirely new and rebuild your motorcycle. Custom motorcycle kits are a great way to release your inner creative abilities and you have the knowledge and ability to change the look of your motorcycle time and time again.

Of course you should not expect to assemble your custom motorcycle within a day or two. Just as Rome was not built in a day it will take some time to build your custom motorcycle. Now unless you are a mechanic, the fixing time of your motorcycle will take maybe a few months even though you have all of the instructions and needed parts.

The waiting period however will reward you with a custom motorcycle that is unlike all the others that you see on the road. Once you get hooked you just might decide to build a few more motorcycles from the many custom motorcycle kits that are available. Imagine owning a fleet of custom designed motorcycles that were built by you.

Harley Davidson Carburetor Tuning

2006-12-19T02:13:00.000-08:00

Tuning your Harley Davidson carburetor is simpler than most think and can be performed with a few common tools. This simple procedure is a great Harley tech tip that applies to all Harley models from 1989 to 2006 that use the CV (constant velocity) style carburetor. Earlier models equipped with the older butterfly style carburetors (pre-89 Evo's, Shovelheads, and Ironheads) are excellent candidates for upgrading to a newer Harley CV carburetor.

Before you rejet your carburetor it is recommended that you perform the following tuning procedure first. Once the mixture has been properly tuned as described here you may not need to rejet the carburetor.

Preparing the carburetor for tuning will require removal from your Harley-Davidson's engine but this is easily accomplished. The entire removal and installation procedure can be found in your service manual. With the carburetor removed, place it on a sturdy work surface upside down. The carburetor has a small cylindrical tower protruding from the base of the rear throat against the back side of the bowl. The tower is plugged with a soft metal insert covering the idle mixture screw. Gaining access to this screw is key to fine tuning and must be drilled out. The metal plug is very soft and only requires a household drill and a 1/8" bit. Secure the carb in either a vise or clamp and drill a hole into the plug making sure not to "punch" through too fast. You don't want to damaged the mixture screw just below the plug.

Tip: I found to keep from drilling too far into the plug is to wind electrical tape around your drill bit to form a thick band about 3/16" from the tip creating a stop point.

With a small hole now drilled into the plug, pry the plug out using a pick or awl. You can also thread a sheet metal screw into the drilled hole and use this to pull the plug out. With the plug removed, clean the area around the mixture screw so no metal fragments remain.

Adjustment Method: Using a small flat head screwdriver, turn the screw clockwise until it gently seats. Do no tighten as this will damage the screw or seat. Now turn the screw outward 2 turns to establish a starting point.

Reinstall the carburetor back on your bike making sure to replace the fuel hose clamp and vacuum lines. It may be a matter of dexterity but I prefer to install the cables before pushing the carb back onto the manifold. Test the throttle for any binding and double check all connections.

The air cleaner assembly MUST be installed prior to starting the engine, not only to hold the carb in place but to prevent any backfire while tuning. With everything back in place start the engine as normal and bring up to operating temperature. Do not overuse the enrichener (choke) and don't let the bike idle for more than 5 minutes.

With the engine warmed up and at idle you may now fine tune the idle mixture screw for optimal performance. With the engine idling slow (no more than 900 rpm) turn the screw inward (clockwise) SLOWLY until the engine starts to stumble. Note: you are working with the screw upside down so think about the orientation.

Raise the idle speed if necessary. Now turn the idle mixture screw outward until the engine begins to run smoothly + 1/8 of a turn. Maintain proper idle speed and repeat the adjustment each time you adjust the idle speed. Blip the throttle a couple of times and observe the results. If the engine responds quickly with a smooth blast and no backfiring through the carburetor, you have your idle mixture set correctly. If backfiring occurs through the carburetor then adjust the idle mixture screw out another 1/8 turn. Normally, the idle mixture screw should only be between 2 and 3 turns out from it's seated position.

Adjusting the mixture screw out too far will result in an overly rich, low RPM fuel mixture. Avoid tuning the idle too rich, thus leading to poor gas mileage and fouled plugs. Set this just beyond the point of backfiring (coughing) through the carburetor. Never remove the mixture screw with the carburetor upright as the spring, o-ring, and washer will fall out.

Take your newly tuned bike for a ride and note how it idles and responds off idle. If you experience any coughing through the carburetor not experienced before, adjust the mixture out another 1/8 of a turn. Black smoke seen from the exhaust at idle or a feeling of sluggishness off idle indicates you may have set the mixture too rich. If your bike is now idling steady and responds well from a start then you are all set. If your engine still runs lean (coughs or hesitates) you should move on to rejetting your carburetor. The same stock Harley Davidson carburetor has been used on all production bikes since 1989 due to it's reliability and ability to adapt to different conditions. With just the right amount of tuning the CV carburetor will support any stock to mildly modified Harley.

Thinking of Buying a Scooter?

2006-12-18T20:59:00.002-08:00

Thinking of buying a scooter for the first time? Here are a few things for you to think about.
Getting on the road
Firstly you have to pass CBT (Compulsory Basic Training). This was introduced on 1 December 1990 for all new provisional licence holders of both mopeds and motorcycles. All learner riders need to complete CBT before riding on the road (with the exception of riders who have passed a full moped test since December 1990).
Full car licence holders qualifying after 1 February 2001 must also complete a CBT course before riding a scooter on the road.
CBT is not a test, and there is no exam - it's a day course of training that you are required to complete satisfactorily and all test centres will try their hardest to get you through it first time.
Your CBT will last for 2 years and you must display L plates during the whole of this period. You may retake CBT before this period is up or you can go on to get a full licence.
There are 3 categories of full licence to aim for:
Category P – moped.
Sub-Category A1 – light motorcycle licence, which restricts riders to any bike up to 125cc and a power output of 11kW.
Category A – standard motorcycle licence.
Moped and Motorcycle tests normally consist of two separate parts – a theory test and a practical test.
Finance
Buying a scooter on finance is a great way to be able to get yourself on the road very quickly. However, it may be worth working out if you can afford to pay for it outright, as you may end up paying almost double what the bike is worth. Make sure you look into the deal properly before you agree to it.
Power
A 50cc scooter will reach a top speed of around 30-40mph. 100cc will reach about 50+ mph, 125cc will reach 60+ mph and 250cc 75+ mph. You have to remember that if you’re riding on a provisional licence you cannot ride anything more powerful than a 125cc.
Theft
Theft has always been something to think about when owning a scooter. It is so important to store your scooter safely and always ensure it has some sort of chain or lock on it. It has been known that people selling scooters have had phonecalls from “buyers” organising a time to view the bike, then not turning up and coincidently the bike being stolen within the next few days.

What the Motorcycle Helmet Law States Per State

2006-12-18T20:59:00.001-08:00

Motorcycle helmets may not seem all that important when you think about it. It is heavy, hot and even suffocating. The material may even cause break-outs on the skin and even allergies. Motorcycle helmets also keep you from enjoying the wind on your face as you ride. So why the hell should people wear them? The answer is actually fairly simple. It can keep you from having a permanent disability or even keep you from dying.
Take for instance the story of Don Koening who died when his head hit a tree. He left his helmet on his front porch.
There are a lot of people who have suffered from permanent disability, some even died, just because they have forgotten one tiny detail, to wear their motorcycle helmet. What is more saddening about this is the fact that most of these people are between the ages of 16 and 24, people who still have a full life ahead of them.
Laws requiring helmet use
This is perhaps the reason why legislators have included the wearing of the motorcycle helmets in state laws. The law also states that the helmet worn must also pass the criteria that are set by the Department of Transportation’s Federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standard 218. It is one of the three laws that require motorists to wear safety gears while in motor vehicles. The other two are the use of a child-passenger safety restrains and the use of seatbelts while inside the car.
Differences in some state laws
Although the same basic law is stated in all the states, there are slight differences as to the enforcement especially with the monetary fines. In California for instance, motorists must wear helmets all the time. Helmets should not only be worn but also securely strapped in. In Florida, the law is somewhat a little bit more complicated.
Although all motorists are encouraged to wear helmets when they ride, people over 21 years old and are covered by an insurance policy that provides for at least 10,000 dollars in medical assistance should an accident happen are exempted.
The helmet law also does not apply to people who are 16 and older and are operating a motorcycle that have a displacement of 50 cubic centimeters; does not have an excess of two brake horsepower or those that are not capable of operating it beyond the speed of 30 miles per hour.

Your Tires Are The Foundation Of Your Motorcycle, Here's How To Care For Them

2006-12-17T20:58:00.000-08:00

The tires of your motorcycle are just as important as the engine. The tires are the only connection to the road. Well maintained tires grip the road and make riding much more pleasurable, they allow the rider to go faster and maneuver better. Tires are often bought because of how they make the bike look. But beauty is only skin deep or in this case tread deep. Having the proper tread for the terrain you are riding can be the difference between a great day and a trip to the hospital.
The backbone of the tire is a carcass. Then there is a layer of cords, the angle of these cords determine the overall strength and flexibility of the tires. If you could look inside the plies of the tire you would notice they form an x shape. On the outside of this is the tread. The amount of tread determines the use of the tire. High tread or knobby tread is used for off road riding. The smoother tread is used for regular roads or highways. This tread has grooves to channel water and prevent hydroplaning.
Since there are only two tires on it is important to maintenance them and change them at the same time so they wear the same. It usually takes about 100 miles to break in new tires. You should check the air pressure in your tires regularly. It is the air in the tires that cushions the bike from the roughness of the road. Proper inflation can add life to the tire. The valve stem should be capped with a nice tight fit so they can't come off when driving at high speeds.
Tires should have proper balance and alignment. These two things have the most effect on the handling of your motorcycle. If they are not done properly steering can become difficult or dangerous in some situations.
Keep your tires clean. There are many products on the market to clean tires, even good old soap and water works. Clear the debris from the treads looking for nails or screws, anything that could cause the air to leak.
Before you ride it is a good idea to do a quick visual inspection of your tires to make sure they have the proper air pressure and there aren't any cords showing from too much tread wear. You should never mix the treads on the front and rear tire. They should be the same style and tread type.
Taking the time to care for your motorcycle tires is as important as changing the oil. It doesn't take long to make sure they are functioning properly and it will add to the riders' enjoyment.

A Look At Some Must Have Biker Gear If You Want To Ride A Motorcycle

2006-12-17T20:57:00.000-08:00

Here are some common sense tips for what to wear while you are out tearing it up on your brand new motorbike.
First off, and I know this is old but it always bears repeating, get a helmet. Which would you rather have to do; hammer a few well earned dents out of your bike, or have the doctor hammer a few dents out of your skull? Besides, with all the technological advances in helmet engineering, you might actually look pretty cool with one on your noggin. Oh yeah, and make sure it fits snugly on your head.
Next, you will want to invest in clothing that will protect the rest of your body. With motorcycling, falling is inevitable. Get a jacket, pants, boots and gloves that will be sturdy enough to take a beating, but will still allow your body to stay cool and breathe well. It can get a little toasty under all that leather. Keep in mind also that you do not want your clothing to inhibit the operation of your machine, so make sure that the stuff you get fits well. Oh yeah, and fit is more important than style, ok?
Protective gear has come a long way, offering benefits like waterproofing, special kevlar composites and padding to protect those, um...sensitive areas. Be willing to invest in a quality set of protective gear and you won't regret the extra money spent. Next we need to talk about boots.
Boots come in an amazingly broad variety, and they are an absolute must for riding a motorcycle. Forget about wearing anything else unless you really aren't concerned about protecting your feet, ankles, and lower calf. Remember that comfort and fit are important, just as much as the new, fancy kevlar lining and neat zippers and buckles are. The boots should be fairly stiff, but only pro racers need boots that are completely rigid.
There are plenty of other handy tools and add ons that you can get for your bike. Be sensible and choose the ones that would be best for the kind of riding that you will be doing. Do your homework and go for quality.
After you have fitted yourself with the latest in motorcycle apparel, including a more than just decent pair of boots, the next thing to equip yourself with is a riding buddy. Never go riding alone, because even if you have the fancy global positioning instrumentation installed, with the emergency radio built into your well fitting helmet, it will be kind of hard to operate any of that stuff if your neck is broken and you can't move or speak. Riding buddy...if you don't have one, get one!

Motorcycle Directional Thrust Pusher Motor

2006-12-16T01:38:00.000-08:00

Lets say you own a high-tech crotch rocket Japanese Race Motorcycle and yes we all know the statistics; 4.0 seconds to sixty miles per hour; 165 miles per hour at redline in sixth gear and we also know it could go way faster if it had two more gears and we know your next bike will. Okay I got all that already and hey, I am with you. Indeed wear a helmet.

What if we put a propeller adapter and an extra chain off your rear will and the whole assembly hooked to the back swing arm? Next what if we set up some expandable wings that blew up like the NASA unmanned aerial vehicle project? Yes, that is what I am talking about, a motorcycle that could really fly like a plane? Are you with me still?

Next lets criss-cross some wire cable from the handlebars thru the frame and onto the propeller assembly so when you turned the handlebars the propeller would steer you that direction. Meaning you would have directional thrust like a modern day fighter jet in the US Military.

Does that sound like something you would like to ride? You would still have wind resistance, but with no friction on the ground you could really get some great TAS True Airspeed Going.

Motorcycle Fold Down Canard System

2006-12-16T01:36:00.000-08:00

Often when I use to race motorcycle street bikes I found myself feeling more like I was strapping on a fighter plan as I suited up and started the motor and watched it come alive, knowing full well that what I did in the next hour would determine if I would live or die that day.

The adrenaline rush was well you know, excellent and indeed worthy of mention and yes like most hard core street racer motorcycle riders, I understood the movie Top Gun more than most as I am one with the saying; The Need for Speed.

Sometimes I felt I was going so fast it seemed like I was flying as the ground went by under my knee scraping anything that was even close and yet that got me thinking, what if we could build a motorcycle that could fly, lets say wings that used the exhaust to inflate and a system for elevator control? Perhaps a canard in front to help steer too.

How would that be possible? Well consider how strong the front axle is and the forks. A canard system could fold down and become the elevator-horizontal stabilizer and canard system and it could be controlled by levers on the handlebars like the shift levers on bicycle racing bikes. Then you could have the control in the air that you have on the ground? Well anyway that is how I would design it.

Motorcycle Rider Balance for High Speed Turns

2006-12-15T01:36:00.003-08:00

For those who own or race street bikes you know that the rider becomes one with the bike and together you make those high-speed turns. But what happens when you leave the ground? No I am not talking about going off the cliff near the Rock Store in the Canyons above Malibu, CA, what I am suggesting really is turning our motorcycle into an aircraft.

What you say? I thought this was a legitimate online article. Oh, but it is my good friend and fellow rider, it is indeed. You see I want to take a lightweight motorcycles, perhaps an F3 Honda Hurricane a strap on some extra equipment. Such as a propeller adapter and an expandable wing using the exhaust to blow it up. Okay now you know I am serious and do not tell me you have not thought of this, because all these bikes are missing is wings, obviously they can fly.

To maintain rider balance in high speed aerial turns you will need to have a strap harness incase you go negative “Gs” in a flight maneuver you do not want to fall off and you will have to work with the bike and the gyro affect when turning and keep the skidding to a minimum, but this can be done better and better with practice, although you must never forget once you leave the ground you no longer have that friction to keep you in place, things are different up here.

Motorcycle Expandable Wing Concept with Foot Holes

2006-12-15T01:36:00.001-08:00

Many people have felt as if their race bikes could fly, I know I have while taking high speed turns on the track and yet we know they can’t or can they? What if we used the exhaust of a modern day high-tech Japanese race bike and used it to fill up expandable wings and then worked up some kind of simple chain device to run a propeller, which extended from the swing arm holding the back wheel?

Next what if the wing expanded and we had fairly good control, well we could really fly our motorcycles. Too SciFi for you? Well, do not tell me you have never thought even for a brief second that your motorcycle could fly? We all have those dreams, well anyone who has ever raced a street bike has anyway.

Of course we would need to make sure that the wings once expanded had foot holes in them in order for us to foot our feet thru the wings after landing for balance and we would also need foot holes to put our feet solid on the pegs as we leaned with making aerial turns or banks right? Indeed, this is why I believe for the Motorcycle Expandable Wing Concept we must build these units with foot holes to help with stability in flight and landing.

Motorcycle Centerline Thrust Advantages

2006-12-14T01:35:00.000-08:00

Motorcycle street bikes are blast and you feel as if you have all the power in the world right at your wrist, give it a little juice and Seee Ya! The responsiveness and speed indeed make you feel like you are one with the gods. So with all this adrenaline rush and power, why not take it all to much higher level? How so you ask? Well, why not make a motorcycle race bike, which can fly.

With expandable blow up wings and a propeller adapter and as we do this lets us consider how we will maneuver the aircraft/motorcycle once airborne and some of the aerodynamic and flight control characteristics we must consider. First, race bikes already have a very good center of gravity and as the rear wheel drives it pushes the bike forward on the ground, so we would want the propeller in the rear also and we would want to make sure it was solidly attached to the swing arm holding the rear wheel hub.

We would put the chain to spin the propeller and the system coming off that swing arm and thus this would give us a solid centerline thrust to help with stability once airborne. This also makes sense because this is how the motorcycle is currently set up and we simply are adding another feature; one that allows us to fly!

Motorcycle Expandable Wings Time to Fly

2006-12-14T01:34:00.000-08:00

Japanese Motorcycle Street race bikes or crotch rockets as they are commonly called are indeed in a World of their own. For those who are proficient riders they know that you are one with the balance of all forces when riding or racing. But what if we could take all that technology and bring it up a notch, as in take it to another level; making a motorcycle fly?

Did you know that many experimental aircraft use motorcycle components in them? Do you know why? Well look at the raced out performance lightweight parts they use sometime and it is completely evident why. Now then NASA did a really interesting experiment with an unmanned aerial vehicle which they dropped out of an aircraft and it had expandable wings, which unfolded using a couple of compressed canisters.

So, the wings supported this little aircraft, which means we could do the same thing using a special valve and the hot exhaust of the motorcycles muffler. Once the wing has been expanded it is time to fly! All you would need is a propeller adapter and a few flying lessons and you are good to go.

Imagine getting pulled over by the cops and then saying, I don’t think so and literally flying away to avoid a speeding ticket? Maybe someday in the future it might all be possible, of course then they might want to run your pilots license to see it is suspended?

Mini Motos Guide

2006-12-13T01:28:00.000-08:00

If you think the idea of racing around on a miniature motorcycle inches from the ground sounds like fun… you'd be right. Mini motos are the latest motorcycle craze, and if you've ever seen grown adults on pocket-sized motorbikes and wondered what it was all about, or want to know more, this guide is for you.

What is a mini moto?

Mini motos are small petrol-powered motorcycles, usually 39cc or 49cc. However, they are sometimes larger, up to 110cc.

Where can mini motos be ridden?

These bikes are intended for use on private land or racetracks, rather than road use. If you want to ride a mini moto you need to find a race track or get permission to use private land.

Fields are often unsuitable as mini motos have very low ground clearance and no suspension. If you want to ride on rough terrain then your best bet would be a mini dirt bike, which is made for off-road conditions.

What kind of mini motos are available?

There are several kinds of mini moto that can be bought from specialist outlets. If you are looking to buy a mini moto then there are several factors which need to be considered.

Firstly, you need to decide what you want it for. If you are planning on racing, then you will need a race-certified mini moto, such as a Blata or Polini. These can be raced in competitions as they adhere to regulations set by mini moto racing organisations.

If you are looking to ride your minimoto around private grounds just for fun, then you might not want to spend so much money. In that case, you could look for one of the many good value imports from China.

However, if you are inexperienced on two wheels, you might want to consider a mini ATV. These are great for beginners as they have the same engine as most minimotos but they use four wheels instead of two.

If you think you're too big for a Mini moto then you could try a midi moto - these are ideal for people with longer legs. The downside is they aren't as quick as mini motos due to the extra weight but they are available with a full electronics pack including electric start and lights, etc, and can be just as much fun.

Once you have made your choice, shop around to find the best deal. Some companies will sell the minimoto with extras such as helmets, or performance upgrades so it is always best to search far and wide for the best deal.

Motorcycle Maintenance A Basic Guide

2006-12-13T01:27:00.000-08:00

Here we have a few things you should check on your motorcycle on a regular basis. I assume you have a handbook with the specs for your bike, if not, go get one. You may be able to find some data for your particular motorcycle on the net. You can also pick up workshop manuals for various models on eBay in PDF or CD form for little money.

Whereas with a four wheeled vehicle you may get away with being lax with things like tire pressures etc, this is not the case with a motorcycle. You should not risk compromising the safety and stability of your motorcycle, for the sake of a bit of routine maintenance.

Pre-ride checks

Tires – check condition and for foreign objects in the tread.
Tire pressures – it is vitally important to keep your motorcycles tire pressures either on spec or very close to it.
Oil level – always check with the bike on level ground.
Coolant level – only if your bike’s liquid cooled, obviously.
Chain – check the tension and make sure it’s well lubed.
Brakes – check they work and that they feel good.
Lights – check all your lights, especially the brake light, you don’t want to get rear ended, do you?
Visual inspection – self explanatory.
All ok – hit the road.

Periodical checks

Check battery – see that the connections are tight; I dropped a bike once because of a loose battery connection, strange but true. Also check the electrolyte level on some batteries, a lot of newer batteries are gel filled, sealed for life types, so no need with these.
Carb balance – if your bike is multi carbed get yourself a Morgan carbtune or similar. It can be a little tricky the first time you balance them, but when you’ve done it once, the second time will be easy.
Ignition timing – only necessary on some bikes, most newer models have electronic ignition which does not need touching, normally.
Valve clearances – unless you’re a good home mechanic, take it to a dealer.
Wheel bearings – grab each wheel with it off the ground and see if there is any sideways play. There should be none or maybe a trace at most.
Steering head bearings – with the front end off the ground, grab the forks and push and pull. There should be no play.
Swinging arm bearings – with the back wheel off the ground, check for any sideways movement in the swingarm, there should be none.
Brakes – check fluid levels, brake hoses for deterioration, and pads/shoes for thickness.
Cables and levers – should operate smoothly. Get some grease on lever/pedal pivot points, and get some lube down the cables, if you can. A cable oiler is a handy tool.
Nut and bolts – go all round the motorcycle with your spanners and check that all nuts/ bolts/screws are nice and tight.

Well, that’s about it for some basic maintenance, obviously, unless you’re a good home mechanic, any bigger jobs will have to go to a dealer. The problem can be finding a good one with skilled mechanics you can trust. I manage to keep my Yamaha Fazer 1000 running sweet just using the steps listed above. It does help that this model only needs the valve clearances checking every 26,000 miles.

The 800 Watt Electric Mini Bike is Power Charged Fun

2006-12-12T01:27:00.000-08:00

The 800 watt electric mini bike is one of the most powerful scooters you can buy. If you are riding with 800 watts of power you can get up to speeds of 25 miles per hour, which is the case with the Explorer E-08 800W electric scooter. The 800 watt electric mini bike is one of the most powerful and sought after scooters on the market today. It has a 36 V battery and includes a smart battery charger with helps to prevent overcharging. The tires are 10” Fat Heavy Duty Pneumatic tires with a deep tread for a smoother more comfortable ride. It has a cushion seat with adjustable height and an extra brake light.

This scooter is not only reliable but is it environmentally friendly. You can take it out for a spin and be rest assured you are not polluting the environment because it has no emissions. It also is good to your ears because of the quiet engine. You can drive up to 20 miles on one charge and the charge will last about 6 hrs. If you are looking for a motorbike to travel short distances this is a great vehicle for the price. They sell for around $350.00. There are several accessories available to enhance your new 800w electric mini bike and they include a small storage trunk for a little cargo room, a basket that attaches neatly on the front and a big selection of helmet and safety gear suitable for every responsible rider.

2007 Trends in High Performance Motorcycles

2006-12-12T01:26:00.000-08:00

Each year high performance motorcycles get faster, lighter and stronger. One has to wonder will this ever end, as the trend has been going on for many decades. The next evolution of high performance motorcycles will include such things is carbon nano-tube construction, which is 50 times stronger than steel for the same weight.

This means that the weight of the motorcycle will come down substantially and therefore the performance will be greatly enhanced. Will this be enough? We find in racing and human competition with high performance motorcycles that better it is never enough.

Many high-performance motorcycle racers, crew mechanics and the engineers who build them will say such things as; This Motorcycle Flies. Indeed, if you put a set of wings on a motorcycle it actually would fly, because many of these motorcycles are capable of 180 to 200 mph. The average cruising speed for a Cessna 172 private aircraft is about 145 mph.

So the question is; where he is the future of high performance motorcycles going and how soon and tell these rapidly approaching super technologies will hit the streets or the runways? We all know that the latest and greatest transfer technologies from military are passed down to industries like competitive sports, entertainment and business.

Carbon nano tubes technologies do exist, unfortunately it costs quite a bit to construct things out of this material, yet you can be share as the costs come down they will be used in racing, Olympic sports equipment and golf clubs. I hope you will enjoy this philosophical discussion about potential applications for future racing technologies of all types.

We should discuss high-tech training, virtual reality simulation, electronic equipment, new materials, alternative fuels and the next-generation of high-performance motorcycle racing as well; because all of this will play a part in the future of high-performance motorcycles.

British Superbikes Croft Report

2006-12-11T01:26:00.000-08:00

Leading the championship, Japanese wunderkid Ryuichi Kiyonari now looked poised, focused and determined for a full-on title assault, unlike one time leader and increasingly frustrated Gregorio Lavilla who in the past four races had only so much produced a third placing, two falls and a mechanically forced DNF. In attempt to claw himself back on top, Lavilla would have to produce winning performance and take victory, of course in company of the ever charging Leon Haslam, Jonathan Rea and Shane Byrne, piece of cake….

Race 1: Considering mixed conditions plagued riders with an inevitable tricky tyre decision, dry with scattered wet spots around track left riders unsure as to what choice was best, though when the lights went out and they blasted of line, it was young Jonathan Rea with the holeshot from Ryuichi Kiyonari and Gregorio Lavilla. As the race progressed the once freight train of riders fizzled out into settling groups, the leading being still Rea at the fore, with Kiyonari and Lavilla following within a wisper behind. Despite Rea’s best efforts on-form Kiyonari then took the lead, to race out an impressive victory over Rea who lay second, with Greg Lavilla just holding off Airwaves Ducati team-mate Leon Haslam for third position and the final podium slot. Haslam was fourth with Rizla Suzuki mounted Shane Byrne and Stobart Honda rider Michael Rutter fifth and sixth respectively.

Race 1 Result:
1-Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda)
2-Jonathan Rea (Red Bull Honda)
3-Gregorio Lavilla (Airwaves Ducati)
4-Leon Haslam (Airwaves Ducati)
5- Shane Byrne (Rizla Suzuki)
6- Michael Rutter (Stobart Motorsport)

Race 2: Returning to the grid on full wets, riders faced a completely different challenge, now knowing the brutal unforgiving conditions they had to race in. Torrential rain had both soaked and delayed racing, though once rain eased of slightly, race two got underway. This time it was Michael Rutter who blasted to the front, looking set for a solid performance in race two, though as the race advanced and they came to lap five, he faded back to third, later falling foul of a misjudged manoeuvre by Haslam who ran him off track. Karl Harris now took the lead posting consistent hot laps and pulling away from the rest of the pack seeking his first ever win in the premier British Superbike class. Though it was Haslam, beyond the ragged edge in which any other racers abilty would have succumbed, who went on to take a startling victory and a maiden for 2006. Starting the final lap Haslam remained behind Harris over two seconds and out of striking distance, to blast through to the fore and secure a blitzing victory. Harris mortified raced through to a fine second, hardly satisfying having led the pack for such a long period. Gregorio Lavilla took home a brace of thirds having finished well in the first and second, signalling consistency may well play the culprit in the race for the title. Shane Byrne took home a solid points haul in fourth, with race one winner Kiyonari fifth and Michael Rutter sixth. The top of the championship title has now tightened, with Ryuichi Kiyonari on top, just three points on front of Haslam, with Lavilla third and just fifteen points behind. The race for the title is truly turning into a fantastic affair, make sure to join BBG as we keep you posted on BSB, right until the champion is crowned.

Race 2 Result:
1- Leon Haslam (Airwaves Ducati)
2- Karl Harris (HM Plant Honda)
3- Gregorio Lavilla (Airwaves Ducati)
4- Shane Byrne (Rizla Suzuki)
5- Ryuichi Kiyonari (HM Plant Honda)
6- Michael Rutter (Stobart Motorsport)

-BSB Championship Table
1 Ryuichi Kiyonari 310
2 Leon Haslam 307
3 Gregorio Lavilla 292
4 Shane Byrne 198
5 Jonathan Rea 176
6 Karl Harris 175

Moto GP Valencia!

2006-12-11T01:25:00.000-08:00

Hay-day for Nicky, Rossi down and out

Curtailing a seven point deficit Nicky Hayden looked down and out in terms of gaining the championship, and it now seemed that Valentino Rossi would go onto retain an eight World Championship title! In qualifying Rossi planted his Camel Yamaha on pole position, spreading a pair of ducati’s in Troy Bayliss and Loris Capirossi between himself and championship rival Nicky Hayden who lay fourth on the grid.

Brolly Dollies, generators and tyre warmers where whisked off the grid as it was time for the final 990cc Moto-GP EVER to get underway! Bayliss blasted off the line to lead the pack through turn one having blitzed opposition in this years World Superbike Championship to take the crown. Interestingly this was Bayliss’s first weekend back in Moto-GP for 2006, having only stepped on the bike for the first time two days prior to racing!

Caption for pic “In order for Hayden to clinch the title, Rossi would have to finish 3rd, and he, win the race.”

Rossi suffered a mediocre start dropping down into 5th position, and gradually down to 7th through a few corners more. Blasting from the docks was Nicky Hayden, who held an advantage in fourth place though would have to catch the Ducati Duo of Bayliss and Capirossi, who held the One-Two positions in any attempt at reeling in the world title.

Unforeseen was Championship Leader Rossi’s huge error on lap five whilst leant over mid corner. The young Italian lost the front end of his Camel Yamaha, sending his 2006 title hopes into the gravel and out of contention. Despite the off a desperate Rossi remounted in hope of retaining some points, it was not yet over by Rossi’s standards. Uncharacteristically the Italian had seemed edgy throughout morning warm-up, having only posted an eleventh quickest time in the untimed practice. Turned on its Heels, the advantage now lay with Hayden how rode amazingly, even under the serious pressure of having the world title within immediate reach.

Almost overlooking the battle for honours at front having witnessed the title drama unfold, Troy Bayliss had extended his lead to an incredible two-seconds over part-time team mate Loris Cappirossi. In search of his first ever Moto GP victory, Bayliss a man on a mission, held his own to the line and braced a superb win. Capirossi followed home in second place making it a one two for Marlboro Ducati, whilst we all waited in awe for that #69 Honda of Nicky Hayden to blast out onto home straight. A glimpse in the distance of the orange and blue Repsol livery through the final curve ensured it was finally here, the dawn of a new World Moto GP champion! Bracing the chequered flag, Kentucky Kid Hayden raised his arms in disbelief, having earlier almost accepted Rossi’s title retaining yet again. Followed by an emphatic display of emotion, Hayden pursued to smoke the back tyre, wheelie and celebrate in true championship winning style!

Fourth went to Hayden’s Team-mate Dani Pedrosa, with Marco Melandri and Toni Elias rounding out the top six finishers.

Championship Table Result:

1*Nicky Hayden* 252 Repsol Honda

2Valentino Rossi 247 Camel Yamaha

3Loris Capirossi 229 Marlboro Ducati

4Marco Melandri 228 Fortuna Honda

5Dani Pedrosa 215 Repsol Honda

6Kenny Roberts Jnr 134 KR Honda

-Paddock Gossip

-Casey Stoner will replace Sete Gibernau at Marlboro Ducati for 2007. The 21 year-old Aussie will ride in Marlboro dress alongside Loris Capirossi for the 2007 Moto GP season.

-In a recent 800cc test at Valencia where all riders tried their 2007 machines, Dani Pedrosa came out on top of the time sheets onboard the Repsol Honda RC212V 800cc. Second place went to a flying Chris Vermeuelen with John Hopkins in third place! Suzuki title contender next year? World champ Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi lay 6th an 7th within the overall standings.

Essential Gear Required In Motorcycling

2006-12-10T01:24:00.001-08:00

There are some essential things that you cannot do without, while you are riding a motorcycle. A helmet is very essential and is a must in motorcycling. Most riders do not want to wear helmets because they feel uncomfortable and they think that they look weird. But you will look weirder if you have had an accident on the street and were lying in a hospital, your head bandaged. Bikers dislike the enforcement and the existence of helmet laws. The law enforcement authorities may not be wrong all the time.

Buy a helmet that fits well. With advanced material and helmet designing, helmets today are a manufacturer’s wonder. The strong material used not only gives protection to the head but also makes you look cool. There are different types of helmets available, the full-face, the flip-up and the open-face, all having their advantages and disadvantages depending on how you ride. A good pair of boots, pants and a jacket is a must. Your head alone is not prone to risks while you are riding - other parts of the body are equally vulnerable. A leather jacket can be humid and hot, so look for a jacket that is made from material that offers good ventilation and is smartly designed. Jackets are not just made from thick leather; they are made out of different materials. The fit of the jacket is very important, to ensure agility to maneuver the bike.

Leather pants can sometimes be tight, uncomfortable and irritable. But remember that on a bike, pants are an essential gear. Safety is vital but comfort cannot be ignored especially for long distance rides. Kevlar Keprotec is good to protect the groin area and inner thighs. Wicking mesh keep the rider dry on hot days. Waterproofing will be advantageous during the rains. Don’t forget the boots. It is so important that you have a good pair when you are riding. You have to take care of your feet and ankles, so while riding a motorcycle you should not wear running shoes or flip flops or any other kind of dress shoes. There’s a wide choice you get in boots when compared to other motorcycle accessories. You must first consider what kind of rider you are and how often you ride. You may not be able to manage with one pair of boots in the long run. The basic divisions in boots are off-road, racing and street boots. Choose the right pair of boots that will serve your purpose. The boots must not be rigid but stiff unless you need them for s specific need, such as boots for professional racing.

When it comes to boots, the basic black leather, old-fashioned ones that have rubber soles are a good choice. Thing have changed since Brando’s appearance in the classic biker movie based on a true real story that was named, ‘The Wild One’. The basic black boots work, but are not very comfortable, nor are they very protective.

Boots come in various high-tech varieties today and are made out of different materials. You have the Kevlar lining boots and boots that can be easily removed with zippers, ski boots come with buckles, you have the upper calf boots and then you have boots that are lined with wicking mesh. It is important that your boots fit you well and are comfortable. Shin plates could be helpful, but only racers require metal base plates. A lot of colors are available - choose a design that will suit your personality.

Apart from the basic protective gear that is available, there is a large variety of useful tools and accessories that will help make your ride convenient and comfortable. Handlebar attachments, repair kits, saddlebags, Dick Tracy-style watches, the choice is endless. Things sure have come a long way as far as bikes are concerned.

Looking for Discount Motorcycle Helmets

2006-12-10T01:24:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for discount motorcycle helmet choices, it would be good to look for them at helmet specialty shops and stores. But be very sure that every discount motorcycle helmet that you chance upon should be up to safety standards. Do not buy motorcycle helmets just by the price offered but also by the level of protection that it can provide. There are discount motorcycle helmets that are up to the job, it is just a matter of finding them.

You must bear in mind that a motorcycle helmet is a very important element of the motorcycle riding experience. They are not used merely for aesthetic reasons but for safety reasons as well. A motorcycle helmet enhances your riding experience to a fun and secure level. A badly chosen helmet may not fit you or work for you properly, thereby lessening your riding experience.

Choosing a motorcycle helmet can be difficult for most people. Even the most experienced riders can have a difficult time finding one that they would find suitable for their needs. One of the key issues faced by most riders is the fit of the motorcycle helmet. Riders have different helmet shapes and forms to check out. Not all of them may be able to fit suitably for everyone.

There are full face helmets that offer full head and face protection for riders but may not be able to fit properly for some riders. Then there are also open faced helmets as well as half helmets that offer a more comfortable fit for most people but offer less protection if used in the absence of goggles and sunglasses which can help protect the eyes.

Another key reason for choosing a motorcycle helmet is the style and appeal. Aesthetic value is what makes some helmets more popular than others. The technology being used in designing them can even become the reason why such helmets are preferred by most. Attractive colors and striking graphic designs can also provide helmets with good saleability. Price also is important to some people when choosing a helmet.

If you cannot find a good helmet that would best fit or appeal to your tastes, you can always have one custom made. This way, not only will you be getting the helmet looks that you want, you can also have them custom made to be more comfortable to give you a more enhanced riding experience. No matter what helmet you choose, just make sure that you always put safety and protection on top of your list when you do your choices.

Pocket Bikes Miniature Form Of Motorbikes

2006-12-09T02:21:00.000-08:00

Pocket bikes, also known as mini motors are miniature-sized motorcycles, fueled with either gas or oil and powered with gas-burning engines. The concept of motorbikes had begun in Japan, a country known for miniaturizing full-scale products.

Previously pocket bikes were used only on closed racetracks, private roads and on roads that were not under public traffic laws, so that no big car or truck can run into your minute sized pocket bikes. But these you will often find pocket bikes zinging in and out of the parking lots, up and down the residential streets and occasionally onto the side of the cars.

The pocket bikes usually move at a top speed of 35 mph, but often the speed can be raised further. Another interesting feature of these pocket bikes are their duplicate imitation of normal-sized street motorcycles. The pocket bikes are equipped with handlebars, twist-grip throttles, and chain drives, electronic ignition and disk brakes.

The pocket bikes are not at all safe for the highways or high traffic zone areas. If you are driving a small sports car and someone is driving a mini pocket bike behind you, you will fail to see him or the pocket bike. So it becomes really dangerous to move in a traffic-crowded area, as the rider can be easily run-down by the driver of the bigger truck. The pocket bikes are specially designed to travel only on the racetracks.

There are some safety measures that should be followed while one is driving these pocket bikes. The person driving the bike should be an ace in driving and he should always carry his helmet and pads. If by chance if your kid is riding the pocket bike, then make sure that he/she does not go out of the backyard or the driveway.

The pocket bikes follow hi-tech technology so the snazziest models cost even more than thousands. The smaller models, however, cost around $200 to $800. They basically come from Japan and China and are specially famous amongst the teenagers and people in their early youths. These bikes weigh almost 50 pounds, stand about a foot and half high and can be carried stacked in a corner of the trunk of the car. They have really tiny engines with 47 cc to 49cc displacement, less than 1/20th the size of the bigger motorcycles.

Try out the pocket bikes. If you want something thrilling, something exciting, something enticing to bring a difference to your monotonous days, then pocket bikes are the best alternatives for you.

Optimal Performance from Super Pocket Bikes

2006-12-09T02:20:00.000-08:00

Any racer is likely to tell you that there is performance, and then there is Performance. Optimal performance is the end goal, especially from super pocket bikes. You want the best possible performance out of super pocket bikes, and doing so is not all that difficult. There are a few basic tips that can help to ensure your bike stays in top notch shape.

One of the most basic rules to keep your super pocket bike running smoothly is the same rule that you need to keep any vehicle running smoothly, from mini bike to a car or van: choose your gas carefully. For super pocket bikes, most pros will tell you not to use racing fuel. Not only does it not help, it might cause problems that other fuels would not. High octane unleaded gasoline works best. As with any gas station, look at the condition of the pumps and ground. If they look bad and there is standing water around where the gas in put into the tank, try the next one down the road. Make sure to mix the oil right, too. The mixtures are fairly easy to figure out, and do not use the same oil as cars. It is not designed for pocket bikes. Buy motorcycle oil.

Break the super pocket bike in right. This mainly involves using common sense. Don't run your bike at the maximum RPM's during the break in period. That puts undue stress on the motor. On average it will take about four tanks of gasoline, five to be safe, to break your super pocket bike in. During this period, don't push the bike too hard - baby it a bit. Slow and steady quite literally will lead to winning the race. Going along with treating your bike right, don't run it cold. Allow your super pocket bike to warm up for about five minutes after starting it. This allows the motor and the fluids to heat up to their optimal running temperatures. You would never just start your car when its winter outside and take off, so don't so the same with your bike. It's not meant to run cold!

Finally, get to know your super pocket bike. Learn what is normal, and what isn't. When it isn't running normally, or if anything at all sounds different than usual, turn it off and find out what the problem is. Make all repairs as soon as possible, and park the bike until the repairs are made. Caution will save you a lot of money in the long run. Follow these tips, and you will be able to enjoy a super pocket bike that lives up to every ounce of its potential.