Looking for gift ideas? Here's a great suggestion for what not to give this year! It's called the Steering Wheel Desk.

It's so bizarre I seriously thought it was a joke. Unfortunately it isn't.


As we continue to propagate the myth of "multitasking" this sort of product will actually resonate with certain idiots. Why do one thing adequately, when you can half-ass several?

This sort of crap just amazes me. Pedestrians, motorcyclists and bystanders should beware the roadways if these things become popular.

Labels: article

Still waiting until December to pick up a new wall calendar?
Dude... get a clue! All the really cool calendars have 16 months, and start with September!

It's Calendar Season!

The 2010 editions of the popular girlie/bike calendars are now available- Fast Dates features sexy models draped over awesome road racing machines from Ducati, Yamaha, Honda and more. Need a little more chrome on your walls? Check out Iron & Lace for outrageous customs with babes galore.

But it's not all golden curls and bare skin out there. For example, Superbike is a great calendar with some stunning racetrack photography. All of these awesome calendars start with September 2009!

Another one of my annual favorites is the vintage artwork featured in the Historic Motorcycles calendar from Tushita Publishing. Even though it's a standard 12 month edition, it makes a great addition to an otherwise dreary office wall. This year's includes classic bike adverts from Triumph, BMW, Indian, BSA and more.

So remember, calendars make great gifts. Even in August!

For more great wall and desk art check out our favorite motorcycle and chopper calendars.

Available online from...

• Amazon
• Calendars.com

Labels: article, review

The other day I caught a blog about interesting roads, and how motorcycle riders seem to know where the best roads are. Well, like duh.

It was posted on Fuzzy Galore, one of the better blogs out there in cyberwebville. I know it sounds like a soft porn site, or maybe something Japanese girls play with in grammar school. But it's actually a very interesting blog about a lady and her love of sportbikes, travel, strange things along the side of the road, etc. She just happens to have a bushy head of hair it seems. But it's terribly witty and fun to read- imagine the Gilmore Girls on bikes. I digress.

The gist was that many riders know some great stretches of highway but aren't real forthcoming when it comes to sharing. Most of us are reluctant to share our favorite stretch of two-lane for fear of exposing it to an onslaught of suburbanites. You can read Fuzzy's full take on it here, The Secretive Lives of Motorcyclists.

Back when I started Places 2 Ride it was mostly off-road. It was a couple of years before we added a category for scenic highways or twisties. In the beginning it was trails, motocross tracks and ORV areas. But the two main categories were actually Secret and Not Secret. The track owners want all the press they can possibly get, while the off-road guys are sneaking bikes off the trailer in the dead of night. We used to receive angry emails asking us to remove listings for riding areas. The secretive aspect of dirt biking seems to have kept pace with trails that are slowly evaporating.

So I can understand the offroaders being a little secretive, but why all the hush-hush from the Asphalt Set? I've always enjoyed discovering a new route- and sharing it with other riders. That's essentially why this site (and blog) exist. But based on recent submissions to our list of "places to ride" it looks like I'm in the minority.

Most of the rides we receive these days are MX tracks or hangouts- biker bars, destinations, motorcycle-friendly campgrounds, etc. The roads shared by fellow riders are few and far between, figuratively speaking. I've heard it said, "Bad roads bring good people, good roads bring bad people." While there may be some truth to that, it won't hurt to share a little of the joy. So step up- let your fellow bikers in on a little secret.

Share your favorite ride.

Labels: article

In these troubled times even women and minorities are on the Motor Company's radar.

Harley-Davidson's recent marketing efforts were the subject of an article in the latest issue of Chief Marketer magazine. Yeah, yeah... I can hear the yawns all the way from here. Most people think marketing is about as fascinating as outdated road maps. I just happen to be fascinated by both.

But this article was interesting- not so much for what Harley is doing with their marketing, but what their marketing says about motorcycling in these United States. Hear me out.

Full disclosure: I'm not a big fan of H-D. For me they cost more yet do less. Paying more for something that's slower, heavier and less maneuverable doesn't make much sense to me. It's hard to make a case for a Harley purchase if you look at tangible numbers like horsepower, stopping distances, curb weight, price, etc.

That's no secret to executives in Milwaukee. That's why the image of their motorcycles drive most of their advertising. Why sell the steak when you can sell the sizzle? Think about it- when have you seen a recent Harley ad that quoted a single spec? Other than APR, I can't think of any.

This approach requires tremendous brand allegiance from your customer base. And when it comes to marketing their "brand" Harley is up there with the best. Selling a lifestyle, so it seems, is much easier than designing a practical bike. They're so good at this it's not uncommon for college business classes to study H-D's marketing strategies. But hard times make selling solely on brand loyalty a hard sell.

Drastic Measures
Over the last several months we've seen more Americans buying generic brands at the grocery store, driving their cars less and fixing broken things instead of throwing them away. Along with this Cultural Revolution we've seen purchases of discretionary items plummet. Motorcycle sales have dropped off 30% on average this year. Harley sales have fared far better (closer to 9%) and it's partly due to their new marketing initiatives.

Beginning last year Harley-Davidson began a concerted effort to reach out to younger riders, women and Hispanics. Two of those are demographics long ignored by most motorcycle manufacturers- not just Harley. Attracting younger buyers has involved de-chroming some of their hardware and using names instead of their legendary alphabet soup. Part of their reasoning is it will be easier to draw in a new rider than convert an old one.

But once again we're talking lots of snake oil and very little gear lube. Aside from the XR1200R these efforts are almost exclusively fueled by aesthetics.

I do applaud Harley's efforts to foster women riders and help them feel more comfortable in the "mans world" of motorbikes. But, beyond social functions, the effort is limited to accessorizing their current lineup with lower bars or different seats. God forbid they'd actually design a bike tailored to fit the fairer sex.

It also concerns me that newbies, with very little experience, are plunking down serious coin to waddle about on some very heavy machinery. It would be far more beneficial to see these rookies fall off a dirt bike or Ninja 250 a couple of times before hitting the open road feet first.

Labels: article

SAE Announces Motorcycle Sound Test

Last month the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) announced a new sound level test for street motorcycles. The test, touted as simple and economical, is based on a procedure that originated for off-road motorcycles.

Over the last few years it's become increasingly evident the motorcycling community will not police itself. Replacement or removal of stock mufflers has become the norm for retro bikes and cruisers. The practice is further perpetuated by the myth that "loud pipes save lives." A simple and consistent method to measure tailpipe noise has been sorely needed.

The American Motorcyclist Association hailed the news:

"The AMA maintains that few factors contribute more to misunderstanding and prejudice against street riders than excessively noisy motorcycles," Ed Moreland stated. "With the new SAE J2825 standard, street motorcyclists can now determine how quiet, or loud, their bikes really are."

Recently we've seen cumbersome regulations enacted as communities across the country seek to curb excessively loud bikes. Several states and municipalities have considered or enacted regulations to nix any aftermarket muffler or pipe. But these outright bans on any modification to an OEM exhaust system are hard to enforce and virtually impossible for many owners to comply with. Hopefully this test will offer a viable option to such ordinances.

The standard is identified by SAE as J2825, "Measurement of Exhaust Sound Pressure Levels of Stationary On-Highway Motorcycles." This new test requires holding a calibrated sound meter 20 inches from the bike's exhaust tip, then taking readings at various RPM ranges. A magic number of 92 decibels at idle and 96 dBA or 100 dBA at higher RPM, depending on the number of cylinders, is recommended by SAE.

Labels: article, news

According to a recent consumer survey, customer satisfaction with motorcycle helmets is at an all-time high, and one brand in particular continues to set the pace year after year.

In conducting the 2009 Motorcycle Helmet Satisfaction Study, which measures the overall satisfaction of motorcyclists with their new helmet in three key factors: ventilation, face shield, and design and styling, J.D. Power and Associates asked owners to rate the following 11 attributes of their motorcycle helmet:

* quietness;
* ventilation/air flow;
* de-fogging;
* face shield ability to keep wind out;
* face shield ability to resist scratching;
* ease of replacing face shield;
* scratch resistance of shell;
* color/graphic design;
* weight;
* ease of fastening the strap;
* fit and comfort.

When results of the more than 4,600 survey responses were tabulated, the industry score of 766 (on a 1,000-point scale) not only eclipsed last year’s result by five points, but also marked the highest score since the study’s inception in 1999.

When analyzing scores for the individual helmet brands, one in particular stands out. With a score of 830, Arai ranks highest among the 10 helmet brands included in the study—its 11th consecutive year leading the rankings. “Arai’s focus on fit and comfort—the most important consideration when purchasing a motorcycle helmet—and its ability to cater to different types of riders have given the manufacturer a consistent edge in satisfying customers,” said Tim Fox, research manager of the powersports group at J.D. Power and Associates.

Other highlights from the 2009 Motorcycle Helmet Satisfaction Study include:

* Arai, the highest-ranked helmet maker, improves its index score by 11 points compared to last year’s study, and performs particularly well in the ventilation and design and styling factors.
* Shoei ranks second with a score of 815 and performs well in the face shield factor. Icon ranks third overall with a score of 806.
* While the percentage of helmet owners who conducted research online before buying has remained relatively steady from 2008 at 36 percent, more and more consumers are buying their helmets online—17 percent in 2009, compared to 14 percent in 2008.
* Those who purchased more expensive helmets ($200 or more) are more likely to both research and purchase their helmet online. Additionally, more than one-half of these helmet owners researched online prior to their purchase, and 22 percent of them made their purchase online.

About the Study
The 2009 Motorcycle Helmet Satisfaction Study is based on responses from more than 4,600 purchasers of new 2008 model-year motorcycles who provided information about their most recent helmet purchase experience and helmet use. The study was fielded in September and October 2008.

For more information:

• View Motorcycle Helmet Ratings
• Read the Press Release

Labels: article, news

If he rides consider a gift for his bike, or riding gear. Duh. I mean, don't you like getting cool swag for your scooter? For motorcycle-related gift ideas visit our popular Six Gift Ideas for Bikers page. You'll find suggestions to fit any budget, any style of riding and even some cool wrapping paper.

If bike gear doesn't work let me suggest you visit Buy.com for a huge selection of electronics, video, sports, computers and books at great prices. I always check them first to compare prices, read reviews and check the latest deals. You almost never have to pay for shipping and they always have cool coupons running.

Like this one h'yar. Go one... click it. You can handle it, save a few bucks...

Here's a couple more suggestions that might bail you out— even at the eleventh hour...

Amazon Gift Certificate
Delivered via e-mail (you can even pick the day) this will give your beloved one access to all the great and wonderful things Amazon has to offer. And that's a lot!


Northern Tool
Check out cool power tools from one of the best sources for Man Gear. And if you hurry you can get ground shipping for free! Just enter promo code 121360 when you check out.

Magazine Subscriptions
Consider giving a year of someone's favorite magazine. You can send a card by snail-mail or email from Magazines.com.

Online Radio
A unique gift idea that's fun and useful is a Live 365 subscription. Your lucky recipient can choose from thousands of streaming radio stations and enjoy VIP access.

Labels: article

If you own a Cardo Scala Rider you should read this.

Staying safe while riding a motorcycle doesn't just require undivided attention, a well maintained machine and the proper safety equipment. Turns out it also requires careful riding gear selection and mounting.

After several months of trouble-free service from our Cardo Scala Rider communicators we have found a troublesome flaw. When mounted on a full face helmet the unit hangs down below the helmet enough to cause injury in the event of an accident. Brad found this out the hard way during a low speed get-off last March.

What should have been a minor inconvenience was first diagnosed as a fractured collarbone. But in reality it was a severely fractured collarbone. Like several tiny pieces severe! While there's nothing to suggest the Cardo actually caused the injury, it does appear that it increased the severity. You can read his full account of the incident.

To rectify the situation he changed the way the Cardo was mounted.

"I have moved the mount up," Brad said. To avoid a repeat performance he attached the Cardo unit to the side of his new Shark helmet with Velcro. "Besides moving it up, out of harms way, I'm hoping that the Velcro will let go in case of an emergency."

Looks like something for anyone using the Cardo Scalas might want to consider.


Learn safe ridng techniques
with the safe riding videos available in the Street Smarts series...
Street Smarts DVD Set

Labels: article

eBay Store Spotlight: Rodolpho Moto

Car nuts can find automotive models most anywhere- in fact, almost everywhere. Even the local convenience store will stock up on diecast model cars around the holidays. But miniatures of the two-wheeled variety can be trickier to find. Especially if you're on a quest for a particular bike.

That's why we were excited to discover an eBay Store dedicated to nothing but model motorcycles! Rodolpho Moto is run by an avid motorcycle model collector, Rodolpho Moraes, whose collection totals over 1300. Since early 2006 he's been selling motorcycle models on eBay. His selection caters to any style, any taste, any brand- any bike you want in small scale.

"A friend.. told me about Ebay, and I remember he said 'You can find anything, on Ebay,'" Rodolpho told us. "I looked and found hundreds of different models. So little by little I started to buy and sell bikes online just to pay my own collection." Sounds like most motorcycle collectors I know!

Most of these little bikes are 1/18 scale pre-built models. It's a common scale among collectors and works out to an overall length around 4" to 5" for most bikes. Rodolpho is working on expanding the selection to include more 1/24 and the larger 1/12 scale motorcycles.

Rodolpho Moto carries a wide variety of models- all brands, shapes and styles. You'll find official Harley Davidson collectibles, motocrossers, World Superbike racers, X Games toys and even a few promo and commemorative issues. Today we spotted makes from BMW to Yamaha to Aprilia to Norton, and everything in between.

Prices are quite moderate. Most of the models are in the $10 to $12 range, with some as high as $26. And shipping is quite reasonable (something that has become a real problem on eBay lately). Orders are shipped from Webster, MA and Rodopho also offers international delivery for customers outside the U.S.

Rodolpho Moto




For more bikes on eBay, local auctions and to see the "most watched" powersports and auto auctions visit our Auction Central page.

Labels: article, auction

Yes, you heard right. It is possible to find accessories that will please your significant other!

For some households the only time a discussion about motorcycle stuff crosses the gender gap is to balance the checkbook. If your spouse doesn't usually take much interest in your obsession with riding gear then read on.

Park-n-Move
I first saw the Park-N-Move in action at a Cycle Gadgets open house. Ron Zimmerman twirled a big BMW police bike around like it was on... well, on rollers.

This is a great gadget to keep the peace in a coed garage. Whenever the motorcycle is blocking a garden tool it can easily be rolled out of the way. My wife now demands that I park our bike on the Park-N-Move.

Cardo Scala Communicator
Being able to talk to your passenger is extra important when your passenger is your spouse. When we reviewed the Cardo Scala Q2 my wife was so impressed she proclaimed it "required riding equipment."

Hard to argue with that endorsement. Being able to chat is not only social, it makes her feel safer when riding on the back.

Casino Neckstrap + Kickstand Coaster
This might be the best gadget of all. Because it's free!

Do you have one of those nifty kickstand coasters to put under your side stand? It's a plastic puck to keep your kickstand from sinking into soft ground. If you don't have one, go get one- they're darn handy.

Anyway... you toss this thing under your side stand when you park. Takes a little coordination but not much. But now you need some way to pick the damn thing up, right?

Most everybody ties a length of fishing line or bright string on their coaster. Then you make a loop in the other end to tie on your mirror or clutch lever. But before you tie a tacky string on it check this out...

Casinos give away these little bungees cords. They're about 3 feet long, have a key ring on one and a spring clip on the other. I guess they're to carry your bingo card or something. But they're about the right length to reach from handlbars to the kickstand- plus they stretch. And the little snap clips right on a clutch lever or tank bag and the other end will attach to the coaster.

Very handy, and free!

The best part is they don't wad up like a string or fishing line does when stored. And since they stretch you can also use it as campsite clothesline. Or for your next casino outing.

Labels: article, review

Here's a great example of Old World craftsmanship meets modern technology. Or at least 20th century technology.

Carlos Alberti is a Portuguese carpenter who makes all sorts of things out of wood. But not just things like cabinets or coffee tables (although he does a fine job of that too). More relevant to our two-wheeling spirit, Carlos has created fully functional scooters and motorcycles made almost completely out of wood!

They not only look good- they really work.



To see more of his beautiful creations, and a wooden Vespa in motion, visit www.carpintariacarlosalberto.com.

Labels: article

World’s Largest Motorcycle Shows Features Hundreds Of New Bikes

Video Highlights
Can-Am Spyder
Park -n- Move
KTM 1190 RC8
The 28th annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows® will visit 13 cities across America. Motorcycle fans from California to New York will get an up-close look at more than 600 new motorcycles- including street bikes, dirt bikes, fuel efficient bikes, cruisers, scooters, ATVs and watercraft from 19 major manufacturers.

For the 16th consecutive year, Cycle World magazine, the world’s most popular motorcycle magazine, is the title sponsor for the series and leading manufacturer Toyota will return for the 11th year as presenting sponsor. Places 2 Ride will be covering the highlights from Dallas and bringing you pics and up-close video right here.

“Whether you are an avid motorcycle rider or a potential new rider, each show stop is bursting with the latest bikes, gear, safety equipment and information to get your motor running,” said Show Director Jeff D’Entremont. “With gas prices on the rise, motorcycles make an excellent fuel efficient transportation choice and the show is the best place to see these bikes up-close and talk to the industry experts about the options.”

For the full schedule of 2008-2009 Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows go to our motorcycle events page or visit www.motorcycleshows.com.

Labels: article, news

Places 2 Ride is 10 years old. And so is Motorcycle USA!

To celebrate Motorcycle Superstore is offering special savings on everything in their catalog. Riding gear, performance parts, tune-up bits and helmets are all on sale now. Plus you can save 10% on any order placed before November 9, 2008.


Just enter coupon code 10YEARANNIV at checkout and they'll deduct 10 points off your order. It's just that easy.

Labels: article

Scooter riders seem to have a flair for fashion.

Show your style with these clever T-shirts for scooteristas. Designed by normal folks just like you- and available now from Cafe Press!


Got an artistic streak? Maybe you should be designing you own cool shirts, stickers or stuff. Open your own boutique on Cafe Press for free!

Labels: article, review

Harley is storming the beaches of Europe. But isn't it interesting to see Harley attacking the European market with weapons suited to the task? Instead of following the lead of America automakers and pumping bloated land yachts into the continent, Harley actually designed a bike for the market.

Press reports indicate Harley's new XR1200 runs, turns and brakes like a world-class motorbike. The XR1200 appears to be a real live motorcycle for people that prefer not ride feet-first. I say "appears to be" because I've never seen one. The XR1200 is not available in the U.S.

Then this rolled across my RSS feed...

HARLEY-DAVIDSON TO ACQUIRE MV AGUSTA GROUP EXPANDING PRESENCE IN EUROPE

Milwaukee, Wis., July 11, 2008 -- Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to purchase the Italian motorcycle maker MV Agusta Group (MVAG). Under the agreement, Harley-Davidson will acquire 100 percent of MV Agusta Group shares for total consideration of approximately 70 million euros ($109 million), which includes the satisfaction of existing bank debt for approximately 45 million euros ($70 million). In addition, the agreement provides for a contingent payment to Claudio Castiglioni in 2016, if certain financial targets are met. MV Agusta Group is privately held, with the Castiglioni family owning 95 percent of MVAG shares...

Wow, so what froze over or did something begin to fly?

It's a shame that H-D doesn't feel the need to market the XR1200 to Americans. Which probably also means they won't see any need to make an MV Agusta in an everymans version. But they obviously see the market for non-retro motorcycles.

The upshot is maybe someday we'll see some trickle-down of all this globalization at The Motor Company. Like I've always said, I don't dislike Harley-Davidson... it's their bikes I can't stand.

Labels: article

I'm going to load up some huge sub-woofers in my Escalade and start blasting 50 Cent. Not because I like Fitty's music (if you can call it that). I will pump out throbbing bass for safety.

As ridiculous as that might sound, it's the rationale used by thousands of motorcyclists who yank the exhaust off their bikes. "It's not my libido- it's for safety."

The myth that "loud pipes save lives" appears to be more popular than ever. But even more obvious is the public backlash against annoying exhaust pipes. Almost daily I see news reports of another town or community enacting ordinances to limit motorcycle sound levels.

You might ask, "Doesn't that piss you off?" Not nearly as much as the reaction from the motorcycling community.

Any discussion of the issue is typically off-limits. More often than not the immediate reaction is the old don't-tread-on-me line. The teary-eyed plea from flag-draped bikers is, "We're the real victims here, man." Sorry, it just doesn't hold water. The fact is a self-absorbed minority have created a problem, but everyone who rides is going to suffer the consequences. Playing roshambo with individual rights isn't going to solve anything.

According to the American Motorcyclists Association: "Of the myriad issues facing motorcyclists today, excessive motorcycle sound has become the single greatest threat to American motorcycling’s future. It’s among the most controversial and potentially divisive issues in motorcycling and, we believe, the issue over which motorcyclists have the most control."

Dude, that's not some government think tank- that's a quote from the AM-freakin' A.

There is no proof whatsoever that excessive sound makes a motorcyclist any safer. Now you can find tons of anecdotal evidence: "I revved her up and the car snapped right back into their lane." Which does prove something- the need for more rider awareness training. Are you riding in someone's blind spot? Then you need to spend money on an MSF course, not drag pipes.

According to the Hurt Report, almost 80% of motorcycle collisions that result in fatalities originate in front of you. The 11:00 o'clock position to be exact. No surprise to me- most of my Oh Shit moments involve a car pulling out of a driveway, left-turners, etc. We drive on the right side of the road so oncoming traffic will be somewhere in that 10 to 12 o'clock area.

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that loud pipes, or rap music, won't offer you any protection.

Labels: article, news

Check this Memorial Day special for Places 2 Ride readers from the Boot Barn!


Now through May 27th save 15% on any boots. Just enter coupon code 0805CJMD at checkout. That's all there is to it. Period.

The Boot Barn has been offering the best selection of boots on the West Coast for over 25 years. Mens, womens and youth sizes too. That includes famous brands like Justin, Timberland, Tony Lama, Durango, Laredo, Roper, Wolverine, even Harley-Davidson. The Boot Barn has a great selection at competitive prices and customer service that's top-notch.

So make a note of that promotional code- 0805CJMD, then visit www.bootbarn.com and start shopping!



More Sources for Boots, Leathers and Riding Gear

Labels: article, news

Well, maybe not fun.

Most insurance companies don't "get" motorcycles. After all, insurance is all about odds. And if you're strictly playing by the odds, you probably don't ride.

Lately I've noticed several large insurers chasing the two-wheeled market segment. To entice riders to their coverage these huge corporations try to look small, carefree and friendly. Allstate has print ads featuring their agents on their bikes. This image suggests they all go riding between writing up policies. Progressive has played word games to suggest their agents know the jargon. GEICO hasn't really played up the motorcycle thing in any special way.

Unless you've been living in a cave you have probably heard of GEICO. Hmm... maybe that caveman reference is a bad example. They promise they can save most anyone 15% or more on their car insurance. But lately they have also been pushing the fact they offer coverage for motorcyclists.

A visit to their website will show you where GEICO has focused their efforts to reach out to bikers. It's not clever slogans or stern looks from tattooed accountants. It's by providing useful information. Whoa... imagine!

That might sound boring as hell, but I commend them. For example, at GEICO.com you can plan group rides or share yours with others through their MyGreatRides.com. It's sort of a MySpace for motorcyclists. You'll also find informative links on gear, safe riding tips and courses offered through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Plus, you may be eligible for discounts that can significantly lower your premiums. GEICO offers discounts for experienced riders. Here are some of the discounts you may be entitled to:

• 10% discount when you transfer your motorcycle insurance to GEICO
  
• 10% discount if you insure more than one motorcycle
  
• 10% discount for mature riders
  
• 10% discount when you renew your motorcycle insurance with GEICO
  
• 10% discount for completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation or Military Safety Course
• 20% discount if you are a current Motorcycle Safety Foundation instructor
• 5% discount on your motorcycle policy if you also insure your car with GEICO

In addition to these great discounts, GEICO also offers a Sunny Day Lay-Up Program. This program offers a winter lay-up credit in some areas, but still covers you for occasional winter rides.

Gee, sounds like someone at the GEICO office rides a bike?

Labels: article

Is it possible for an obsession with motorcycles go too far? When does it cross the line? I may have an answer now, courtesy a funeral home in the UK.

Dashwood & Denver offer a variety of "alternative" arrangements, including a Triumph Speed Triple turned hearse. The final ride will be conducted with an ordained minister at the controls, and you can even take the scenic route to the graveyard via Daddy's favorite drive-in.

Maybe we could work in a poker run along with the funeral procession. Hmmm. Let's hope you're not dealt aces and eights.

Labels: article

View Upcoming Toy RunsWith the holidays racing towards us it's time to dust off the heated riding gear and novelty helmet. Maybe a Santa Helmet is what you need?

Many of us will be participating on motorcycle toy runs in the coming weeks to help less fortunate children celebrate Christmas. It's an annual tradition for millions of motorcyclists all over the US.

Many of these runs benefit the U.S. Marine Corps' Toys for Tots organization. A non-profit that has been helping brighten the holidays since 1947. They accept donations and distribute them to needy children. Most of us are familiar with the "new, unwrapped toy" requirement. But here's a few factoids I bet you didn't know...

• Toys should be new, unwrapped and preferably $10 or above.
  
• The greatest need is for toys is for children ages 0 to 2 and 10 to 14.
• Toys with a military or law enforcement theme or toys containing candy or chemicals are not distributed by Toys for Tots.

It's worth noting here that toys deemed inappropriate are not wasted, they just aren't distributed by the Marines. Instead they donate them to other charities.

For more information contact your nearest local Toys for Tots campaign office.

Labels: article

Last month GoDaddy.com founder and CEO, Bob Parsons, had quite a scare while riding his Ducati Monster on a Phoenix expressway. He describes the experience on his blog, Hot Points.

"I was on my way to get a haircut when — WHAM! — in a split second — it happened!"

Doesn't it always?

Parsons locked the front brake in a panic when he realized the "brake light free" junker in front of him was stopping. He credits his riding gear (detailed thoroughly on the blog) with saving him from serious harm.

Parsons is an avid motorcyclist and purveyor of fine machines and long-legged women. The same blog includes a video of his speed record attempt on a BMW K1200R at Bonneville. He has kept the company's image on the edgy side even though the marketing guys tell him not to. It's refreshing to find someone that isn't scared of stirring a little controversy at the corporate helm. Of course, his success can also be attributed to the fact GoDaddy.com is a competent company and offers a comprehensive toolbox for anything related to domain names. They've even rolled out a new blog tool called Quick Podcast that promises to make podcasting easy.

I don't agree with everything the guy does. But so long as he continues to ignore the consultants telling him he shouldn't be riding motorcycles, I'll be a fan.

Labels: article

My addiction to Motorcycles started before I reached the ripe age of 5 years. From that time, I have ridden in the dirt, the sand, dried lake beds, racetracks, of course the street and a few places I probably shouldn't mention. Of that time riding, I would guess that I spent 75 percent of that riding with friends and/or family.

Riding solo is more different than most “pack riders” would realize.When riding with others, it allows for a couple of things.

One of the first is Safety. If there is a mishap along the way (and I have had my share), you have somebody you can rely on to help you back up, call for help, explain to you where you are and what your name is, etc. I made it a habit to always have somebody along when taking off in the dirt, whether it be rompin' through the woods or on a Motocross track. I crash far too often in those environments to not have somebody around. It's just what I do. I crash, I get up and try not to do it again.

Another is being able to share the whole experience with others both during the ride and after. To benchrace at the end of the day over drinks and a good cigar is not something to be brushed off.

Of course on the other end of that "riding with others" is the testosterone fest that can go on. I see that happen far too often on the street. It might happen in the dirt, but usually, everybody is crashing anyway, so it's hard to tell. I am older now and have used up most of my testosterone. When you don't have much left, you tend to ration it out more carefully.

I swore off riding with large groups a few years back because of my last ride with a large group. The group numbered somewhere around 25 - 30 and had the full mix of bikes, abilities and experience and ended with more than a few broken bones, broken bikes and lots of locals in their freshly pressed uniforms showing up. This had happened before, but something finally clicked in my brain that day and I realized that this was not conducive to my whole plan of not donating any more of my paychecks to the local doctors. That cured me. Now, I stick to groups of 5 - 6 riders that I know.

Now for the other 25 percent of the time. A couple of years back, I decided that I have donated my fair share to the local Orthopedic Surgeons and sold all bikes with knobbies on them. I was not trying to cut off the local doctors completely, but merely cut back on that part of my spending.

Now I try to keep it on the pavement. In the past few years, I have discovered traveling farther than my usual 200 to 300 mile days and have been wandering a little more and attended rallies in other states. Of course, this had me showing up at a rally or two alone, due to the other 4 or 5 guys bailing at the last minute after talking me in to going.

I have to admit that riding alone has its own advantages. There are the obvious ones, such as stopping when you feel like it, riding as slow or fast as you want, detours on a whim, etc., but there is also one that I had forgotten about.

I was reminded of this last one when returning home from a 1,200 mile trip that ended up with the last 300 miles in the rain. I think a friend of mine put it best when I was trying to explain it to him after that trip. He thought it was "that whole Cowboy spirit". Back when a guy would saddle his horse and mosey across the country in search of "who knows what". Riding solo is more different than most “pack riders” would realize.

Riding alone adds to the sense of adventure. If you break down, run out of gas or get lost, there is nobody there to back you up. You have to rely completely on yourself.

You also get to think. I do not listen to music or have my phone wired to my helmet, instead, I choose earplugs. Most people would be surprised how many brain cells are active when you ride across this country only hearing the muted exhaust of your own trusty steed. In today’s world of constant communication with everything and everybody, silence can be golden.

Got something to figure out? Burned out at work? Throw a change of clothes in a bag, strap it to your bike and leave in a general direction. Everything will become very clear. It might take a few hundred miles or maybe a few thousand, but you will know when it happens.

When you return and people ask you why you are smiling and remark that you seem different, then you can try to explain this to them.

Labels: article

New Bike-to-Car Signals Touted

Safety is a constant concern for the motorcyclist. In the blink of an eye we could become the victim of a fatal accident.

One way to ride safer is by communicating with drivers of nearby automobiles. Many riders may be familiar with hand signals intended for rider-to-rider communication. But until now there has been no way for a rider to concisely relay their intentions beyond the use of a turn signal or horn.

Now there are standardized hand motions for signaling other vehicles. By adopting these new motorcyclist's universal hand signals we make motorcycle riding safer, not just for ourselves, but for all motorcyclists the world over.

Let's all promote safe riding and learn these important signals!





Thanks to Wes Garland at the Ninja 250 Rider's Club for this great parody!

Labels: article

Checking Tire Pressure Might Be Your Most Important Motorcycle Maintenance
We've all shopped around for motorcycle tires.

Sometimes we spend countless hours comparing mail-order prices with the local shop or online retailers to search out the very best deals. But all of that time spent rifling through catalogs or searching web pages can be wasted in a few minutes by forgetting to use a simple tire gauge.

Riding on underinflated tires isn't just unsafe– it causes the tires to work harder, run hotter and wear out much faster. Too much pressure also causes excessive wear and reduces your contact patch. Here are a few motorcycle tire inflation tips we've compiled from the top manufacturers like Dunlop, Michelin, Pirelli and Metzeler.
Get a Gauge!


Tires Sources
Moto Sport
Bike Bandit
Motorcycle Superstore

Check tire pressure when cold (before riding or at least 2 hours after). Check it frequently with a good quality gauge that holds a reading, and always check it before a long trip.

Don't race on cold tires. Start each ride by going a few miles at moderate speed. This will gradually bring the tires up to their normal operating temperature.

Underinflated tires can result in imprecise cornering, higher running temperatures, irregular tread wear at the edge of the contact patch, fatigue cracking, overstressing and eventual failure of the tire carcass.

Overinflating tires does not increase load carrying capacity, but will result in a hard ride and accelerated tire wear in the center of the contact patch.

Check valve stems periodically. Loss of pressure may occur due to worn out or badly seated valve cores. Use a metal or hard plastic valve cap with an inner gasket to protect the valve core from dust, moisture and to help maintain a positive air seal.

Repeated loss of pressure may result from undetected tire damage. Visually inspect tires for punctures, cuts, abrasions, cracks, bulges, blisters or knots. If you don't see anything on the outside- dismount the tire and look inside.

Damaged tires cannot always be repaired and should be inspected by an expert. Damage caused by impacts, penetrations or continued underinflated/overloaded use is progressive and can result in sudden and complete tire failure.

Inspect your tires frequently for damage and always heed warning signs such as vibration, handling instability, rubbing or unusual tire noise while riding your motorcycle.

Hopefully these tips will help you make all that time you spent shopping for the best price on your next set of motorcycle tires worth the effort. And help you ride safer!

Labels: article

Benefits of Online Motorcycle Loans
by Jay Fran

So you want to buy your own ATV or motorcycle, and are considering an online motorcycle loan.

Have you considered a home equity line of credit?

It can save you money because you get a better interest rate, and the interest you pay is tax deductible.

Downsides? You bet there are. You could lose your house!

But if you're fiscally responsible this may be the perfect solution to getting the motorcycle you really want.

Resources & Rates
• Investment Biker
• Adventure Capitalist
Well you will probably need a bit of help with finding an online motorcycle lender that will work with you to get you the best rates and terms. The first thing you will need to do, if you are planning to buy a motorcycle, is to determine if it is going to be new or used, or whether it is going to be your first motorcycle, your second motorcycle, your tenth motorcycle.

If you are planning on buying your second motorcycle you may know exactly where to go for the purchase, but you may have a problem getting another motorcycle loan if you have not paid off your original loan. This is especially true if you go through a motorcycle dealer.

Ideally, the place you should probably start is the Internet. Online motorcycle lenders are much more aggressive than your standard brick and mortar bank. Furthermore, they offer very competitive interest rates for online motorcycle financing and great tools to calculate your payments and make other decisions.

For instance, online you can get information on just about any type of loan available from a whole new world of lenders. The best part of all is that you can get information on how you can pay back the loan. Also you will see if you will get approved for the loan, what your installment will be at the end of every month, and even what the total amount will be that you are paying back. Online lenders are also known for high approval rates for online motorcycle loans even if you have bad credit.

We all know that you pay more than the actual loan amount due to the finance charges. But online you can find calculators that allow you to see this a the click of a button. The other great thing about the Internet is that many of the financial institutions give you the chance to apply online, without the messy paper work that comes with going in to see them.

In the end you can apply for a loan today and have a check in your hand the next day to get your bike or ATV. This is called an online motorcycle loan, and this is also the best way to do any type of banking because it is clean and save a load of papers.

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Do you need great rates with online motorcycle financing? If so check out a simple method to get guaranteed approval at: Online Motorcycle Loans Made Straightforward.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay_Fran
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Benefits-Of-Online-Motorcycle-Loans&id=557146

Labels: article

'Tis the Season for Hitting the Highway
Some of us prefer to ride solo. It's that Zen thing. But many riders would rather share the ride with other motorcyclists. Bikes seem to trigger some sort of group gene– most of us like to ride with others and enjoy the shared experience. Many of us will be heading out on motorcycles this Summer on a group ride. No matter how large the group, there are some things to keep in mind that will help make your ride more fun.


For more helpful tips on group riding scroll down and download the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's group riding document.


Check out our recommended reading list for safe riding and offer your suggestions.Gas Up First— fill up before you rendezvous. It might sound pretty obvious, but you wouldn't believe how many times I've heard, "I need to get gas first." I'm guilty too. But it will save everyone frustration and time if you gas up before you go.

Ride Staggered— it might look cool to "fly in formation" but it's best to save the side-by-side stuff for the Veterans Day Parade. Riding two-abreast in a lane isn't just crowding each other, it can hide your buddy outside your peripheral vision where you can't see her in case something happens. But riding in a staggered formation isn't just to provide everyone left-to-right wiggle room. It also offers a larger braking zone because riders tend to bunch up more when riding side-by-side.

Meandor Out/Straight Shot Home— we've all heard those famous last words, "Let's catch it on the way back." How many times have you actually caught it? It almost never happens. When we head out on our adventure we're fired-up, fueled and fresh. After a day/week/month on the road we're usually getting a little saddle-sore and ready to hit the hacienda. The bigger the group, the better the odds of this. So take the scenic route and roam the roads on the departure leg. If you and your group are still up for hitting the sites on the trip back, that's great! If not, nobody feels short-changed.

Communicate— and I don't just mean pack a cell phone (although it's a good idea). Use your turn signals and headlight to signal other riders in your group. Don't assume they know your're turning because the guy in front of you is! Let them know you're awake and signal every turn. And don't forget to "listen" for communication from other riders. Check your mirrors often. To get someone's attention flash your high beam or hazard flashers and hope they read the previous suggestion. Horns are almost worthless if the other rider is in front of you.




For more group riding safety tips review the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's Group Ride Tips.

Labels: article

Some suggested reading for staying safe while motorcycling.

Labels: article

Online personals aren't just for flirting.

It's still the most common thing to do there– but some users are just looking for new friends with common interests. Motorcyclists all over America are finding matchmaking web sites can also be a great way to meet new riding buddies. With more and more women riders on the road, sometimes those friendships turn into much more!

But most bikers find the big names in the business, like Yahoo Personals or Match.com, aren't necessarily the best for finding fellow riders of the opposite sex. That's where niche sites like Biker Datelink or Biker Kiss excel. But where to start? We've put together a quick reference to some of the best biker dating and personals sites.

Social networking is the new buzzword all across the Internet. And the two-wheeling set has not been ignored. Sites like Biker Or Not start with the typical "hot or not" ratings, but offer much, much more. Riders are trying it and finding they like it. Heck, it's free!

These specialty sites offer forums and blogs, along with the usual fare, so it's easy to post ride announcements or invitations. The links below are also hot sites that are worth a visit.

More...

Labels: article

New Mapquest Beta Adds Helpful Tools for Planning Routes
Last week I was checking our links directory to weed out broken links and outdated sites (this is a constant chore– visitors like you can help by submitting broken links when you find them). While going through the Maps section I was surprised at how many mapping sites had either gone away or stopped offering free online maps. But what caught my eye that day was an invitation from Mapquest to try the new Beta version of their route planning tool: "Need directions beyond Point to Point B?"

Why yes I do. Sometimes.

Back when Google rolled out their maps tool I was impressed. Then they offered Google Earth and I was impressed even more. So impressed, I haven't really looked at any other mapping web sites in recent history. That's why I wasn't all that optimistic when I launched Mapquest's new Route Builder. Then I caught a little checkbox near the bottom of the route window that changed my mind forever. Avoid Highways.

Now I was getting interested. I plugged in a few cities and towns, changed their order and selected "avoid highways" to see what would happen. The purple route immediately shifted from the superslabs to state highways and secondary roads. To fine tune the route I added small towns along the twisty road I wanted to ride. After a little trial and error I found it pretty easy to resort the list and get the scenic route I was after. It also has an option to avoid tool roads.

If you're planning a motorcycle ride and want to share your route or print it out you might want to give the Mapquest Route Builder a look.


How do you map your rides? Add a comment and let us know.

Labels: article, news

Honda Super Cub and 50cc Honda Cub - The Volkswagen Beetle of Motorcycles!
By Daniel Levy

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 Model 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)

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of Motorcycle-Articles.com . He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great motorcycle articles visit http://www.motorcycle-articles.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_Levy
http://EzineArticles.com/?Honda-Super-Cub-and-50cc-Honda-Cub---The-Volkswagen-Beetle-of-Motorcycles!&id=6820

Labels: article

As the weather warms up and riding season approaches, the scam artists start coming out of the woodwork. It appears they've dusted off an old classic for this Spring: the Steal.

Classifieds across the `Net are being clogged with "giveaway" deals on desirable motorcycles. I spotted one on Craig's List just this week:

2001 BMW R1150 GS
low miles, system cases, only $2950

Huh? Must be a typo. Did he leave a 1 off the front? The photos showed a nifty yellow GS parked on a subsurban lawn. Could have been Anytown, USA. It sounded fishy but I contacted the "seller" just to see what the story was. The odor immediately got worse:

There are 12450 miles on it, the bike is in great condition, it has been properly maintained, never been dropped or abused in any way. It has clear title and the price I'm selling it for is $2950, which is including all the shipping charges.

I live in Tulsa but currently I am with work in UK, London for the next approximately 7 months. Anyway, there shouldn't be any problem, because I am using SafePay services so I can sell the bike without difficulty.

I left the bike at their warehouse before leaving to UK. They will take care of the delivery. There's a 10 days return policy so you will have the chance to test, inspect and ride it before final decision.

So if you want to purchase it, let me know and I will explain you how SafePay works and how we can move forward.

I am waiting your email.

Thanks

Beyond some obvious fishiness in the message text, I did a little investigating and found

• Safe Pay is a legitimate payment service. For software. They primarily work with programmers who sell downloadable software online. They do not have warehouses and they are not an escrow service.
• Message headers in the e-mail revealed it originated from an AOL account. But the "seller" gave me a Yahoo address. While there may be legitimate reasons for such details (like you don't want to admit you use AOL?) it's a little suspicious that he decided to use an address from a free service where anonymous identities are easy to create.
• The name the scammer used isn't listed in any local directory. In fact there is only one listing with that last name in the entire phone book.

I played along to learn the scam– although I had a pretty good idea. I gave him a bogus name and shipping address as his next message requested. A little later I received a very official looking e-mail claiming to be from Safe Pay Solutions. It looked entirely legit. But near the bottom was the red flag to end all red flags: Western Union!

Of couse, I thought, the same old ploy to get your cash.

When you send money via Western Union you have no recourse whatsoever. That's why it's the method of choice for scammers from Niagra Falls to Nigeria.

If it sounds too good to be true... but this one's for real!
Don't be too sure. And don't fall for giveaway deals on bikes, cars, airplanes or tractors. Do not click any links in messages from scammers. Here's what you should do:

• Forward the scammer's message to abuse@safepaysolutions.com
• Try to include the "headers" in the e-mail which will help identify them
• Report the scammer to their e-mail service, Yahoo, Hotmail, Gmail, etc.
  
• Report the classified ad (on Craig's List they have a "spam" button that will report the listing)

Happy bargain hunting!

Labels: article, news

Here's a cool site we found offering products that feature women and motorcycles. But get this: they're fully clothed!

Is that nuts or what?

Seriously– we applaud TeknoGypsy's efforts and wish her loads of success with her Urban Biker Goddess endeavor. Her digital designs of "women in the wind" are offered through Cafe Press on shirts, wall calendars, coffee mugs and more. One of our favorites is the retro Katherine (seen at right). The designs are a little heavy in the cruiser/chopper department for our tastes, but hopefully she'll be adding more with off-road or sportbikes in the future.

The marketplace is awash with images of bikini models slung over choppers. It's nice to see someone offering products that reinforce the idea that a girl might actually want to ride the motorcycle.

Urban Biker Goddess
custom-printed shirts, postcards, calendars, etc.

For more links to related web sites visit our Women & Motorcycling Links page.

Labels: article

Labels: article

Saving Money Maintaining Your Motorbike

By Colin Coles

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.

Our Tips
• DIY? Try It!
Keeping your bike tuned up may be easier than you think– you can't learn any younger!

Parts Sources
• Ducati
• Harley-Davidson
• Honda
• Kawasaki
• Suzuki
• Yamaha
• Our Gear Guide
• Specials

The Essential Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance

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.

Engine maintenance is very bike specific so oil pumps, valve clearances, ignition timings etc. are not mentioned here; refer to manufacturers' guides, and if in doubt don't trust the geezer down the pub who used to have a moped in the `70s, seek expert advice.

Colin Coles is Technical Manager at World's End Motorcycles. Their online store (http://shop.wemoto.com) features the UK's largest stock of pattern motorcycle parts.

Labels: article

Motorcycle Leather Pros and Cons

By Lawerence M. Senff

There are all kinds of motorcycle jackets on the market, including leather, but isn't it time you knew the pros and cons of motorcycle leather? Well let's help you sort it all out.

Leather jackets have been around forever. In fact they've been around as long as the motorcycle itself. Usually they are made out of cowhide available in either a long or short grain and different overall thicknesses.

Our Tips
• Cheap leather is for looks. Quality textile gear offers more protection than cheap leather.

• New Enough?
save big shopping closeouts or eBay for used and discontinued gear. You might pick up last year's model at big savings.

Resources
•Closeouts/Auctions
•Fox Creek Leather
•Motorcycle USA
•Moto Leather
•Boot Barn

The thickness is noted in mm and is tied to the amount of protection the jacket can provide. The stitching is also important. Leather pieces are thick so if the stitching isn't solid then the seams let go.

There are all kinds of levels of quality in leather jackets and all kinds of protection levels. There's the very cheapest leather jacket, which might look great for a night out but will give you no protection on your bike, to the highest quality jacket that meet pro racing standards.

Leather jackets will usually cost you more than a textile jacket and often last longer and are so nice and soft that they are ever so comfy. Today you can even buy 50-50 mixes that are half textile and half leather.

Leather has plenty of pros. It is readily available and available in a huge number of colors and styles. It is easier to repair than you might think- so even if you wear out a spot it can easily be fixed. Leather is soft, well fitting, affordable, comfortable, and it provides plenty of protection. And because it's thick it provides good protection in the cooler months too.

There are also a few cons. Leather isn't water-resistant and when it gets wet it can shrink and be uncomfortable or impossible to wear. The dye colors are known for bleeding and black is the worst. Unless you specifically seek out ventilated leather they can become extremely hot to wear in the warmer months.

A leather jacket should protect you from strong impact blows, abrasion, or even puncture. In a perfect world no one would ever have an accident or dump their bike, but we don't live in a perfect world. Leather addresses these issues and so do some other materials.

When looking to buy your jacket check for double stitching, foam in the joints, Kevlar, and rivets. Make sure you have room to put a sweater underneath in colder weather. Be especially mindful of the elbow and shoulder construction. Check the stitching to ensure it is even and has none missing.

The leather should be at least 1 mm thick. Remember the thicker it is the more durable and protective the jacket is. Check pockets to make sure zippers work well and everything seals up nicely.

These jackets are available in a terrific number of styles and colors and it's too easy to get caught up in the fashion element and forget about the safety element.

You can easily have both. You just need to do a little research, read what each jacket has to offer, and shop at reputable motorcycle apparel sites. Now that you know the pros of motorcycle leathers you're ready to start shopping.

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Lawerence has owned and ridden motorcycles for 15 years now. Combined with 20 years of being a mechanic, he can be considered an expert on this topic. Go to his motorcycle site, http://www.motorcycleadvice.com , to learn more about motorcycle riding apparel.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lawerence_M._Senff

Labels: article

Motorcycle Refinance Explained

By Jay Fran

If you have at one time or another bought a motorcycle, then you have probably heard the term motorcycle refinance. But what is a motorcycle refinance, exactly?

Our Tips

• Check Rates
you may have stopped shopping for a bike, but keep shopping rates in case they have gone down
• Apply Yourself
use the 'Net to your advantage and apply to more than one loan provider

Resources & Rates
• Investment Biker
• Adventure Capitalist

Lets get down to the basics. The term motorcycle financing refers to the act of providing a certain amount of money to an individual in order to buy a motorcycle. Motorcycle loans are actually types of financing. Now, when we say motorcycle refinance, therefore, it means that we are still providing a certain amount of money. The prefix "re" actually points to the idea that you will be basically taking a new motorcycle loan to replace an old one.

Financial analysts will claim that a motorcycle refinance is a great option for motorcycle buyers when interest rates are low. The reason for this is quite obvious. Refinance loans allow you to take a new motorcycle loan for a relatively lower interest rate. Low interest rates mean low monthly repayments. And low monthly repayments mean bigger savings for you. Of course, this only works if, and only if, the rates are low. If the rates are high, refinance is not advisable.

An advantage of refinancing your motorcycle loan is that the move will allow you to change motorcycle loan terms from a long one to something shorter. With a shorter loan term, you can pay off your loan amount much sooner, thus allowing you to save more on your overall interest payments.

Besides bigger savings on your monthly bills, a motorcycle refinance or loan provides you greater loan satisfaction. For instance, if you find that the terms of your current motorcycle loan are unsatisfactory, you can switch to another lender with a motorcycle refinance loan. You can use the money you get from your refinance loan to pay off your old loan. In addition to that, motorcycle refinancing gives you the option to change your lending company whose services or programs make you unhappy or unsatisfied motorcycle buyers.

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Copyright (c) 2006, by Jay Fran This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information and all active live links are published with the article.

Jay Fran is the owner of motorcycle-financing-guide.com a site which is dedicated to helping motorcycle riders find the best good and bad credit motorcycle financing available on the internet. Jay also enjoys writing articles and has written several motorcycle financing articles and articles on special motorcycle financing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay_Fran

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Options Abound When Selling Your Motorcycle

by Terry Price

There are many reasons why you might like to sell your motorcycle, and each person has their own reasons. Sometimes insurance can be expensive, or you don't have room to store your bike anymore.

Our Tips• Don't start too high!
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eBay Motors:the smart way

If you are buying a new bike most dealers will probably take your current bike as a trade-in. There are several different services around to help you determine what your bike is worth so make sure that you have checked this out before you start negotiating a price.

One of the best ways to sell your motorcycle is on eBay. It is becoming immensely popular, and they offer a great service by allowing you to auction off your bike. A good clear picture is necessary, and make sure that you look at comparable bikes that have been bought and sold to get ideas. Of course- remember to let all of your friends know as well that you are selling your bike! Someone may take an interest and purchase it from you.

Another great way to sell your motorbike, especially if you belong to a motorcycle club is to make an announcement that it is for sale. Remember to get listed in the club newsletter and spread the word around. You may get a fast sale, since everyone will know you from the club.

Some dealers will also take your bike on consignment and charge a small commission to sell it on your behalf. They will also make it known to others that they have your bike for sale. Remember to write a good newspaper ad that will stand out, and there are also many great web sites that offer want ads for motorcycles. You may want to list your motorcycle for sale on various forums throughout the Internet, too.

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By Terry Price - Remember to visit http://www.motorcycle-atv-exhaust.com/cobra-exhaust.html for other fun articles and information on atv’s, motorcycle exhaust and other performance enhancement products. Installing cobra performance exhaust on your bike has never been easier! http://www.motorcycle-atv-exhaust.com/117-cobra-exhaust-system.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Price

Labels: article

Want a Chopper?
Build Your Own!

By Michael Holmes

Motorcycle chopper kits are a growth industry. But what does that mean to you and me? Well one thing that we know is that we will have more choppers to ogle at. There is not a single day that goes by without more and more pictures of chopper bikes that have just been finished showing up in all the motorcycle magazines. Then at the weekends, when we are on our “hot” rides, we will see four or five show finish level bikes. There are more choppers around now than there have been in the last twenty five years.

Our Tips
• Shop Around everybody and their brother-in-law have opened custom bike shops, don't be a beta tester

Resources
•Mail Order Parts
•Parts & Components
•How to Build a Kit Bike
•Books on Choppers
•American Chopper
•How to Build a Cheap Chopper

Eastwood Tools can help
you customize or build the
bike of your dreams

Most of these choppers have been built from motorcycle chopper kits, the “bike in a box” approach. But hey, don’t knock it! Building your own chopper has never been easier. There are rolling chassis kits, complete bike kits, and frame manufacturers give you a multitude of choice when it comes to take the plunge and buy a motorcycle chopper kit.

Thirty years ago, the old school chopper builders had to start with a stock bike off-the-shelf and literally chop it to pieces. With the modern chopper kits, there is a viable alternative to taking the cutting torch to your favorite soft tail!

Nowadays, you have a cheap and easier way to build the bike from the ground up. When you take the cost of buying a new bike and the expense of chopping it, it works out much cheaper to start from step one, and your chopper kit. Instead of tossing away the parts that you'll never use again, you can start building your own bike with the parts that you really need. All the parts are included in the motorcycle chopper kit, along with comprehensive instructions.

One of the first questions that people ask when considering buying a kit is how will my bike stand outs from all the other chopper kits? Well think of it this way, you are going to buy a chopper kit. A pile of unassembled raw metal. No paint, no real finish, just a blank canvas. Is your taste in paint jobs likely to be the same as the next guy, who buys the very same kit? I don't think so. What about your taste in bolt-ons, seats, exhausts? Just because you buy the kit doesn’t mean every little thing has to be just so. That is the whole point isn’t it? It's very easy in this way to build your own custom chopper from a chopper kit.

Another big question is, “How long”? The answer to that is as long as it takes. Even on the kit bikes, which are supposed to be designed to fit together like a glove, you are going to run into some snags. It can’t be avoided!

If you want a more concrete guide, try this. An experienced kit builder (though not a professional) I spoke to reckons it took 10 full days to build his last chopper from a kit. For someone less experienced it could take a couple of days longer. Twelve 9 hour days works out at 108 hours. Over evenings and weekends, this could drag out to three or four weeks of living in a pile of motorcycle parts! So be prepared to literally live the experience if you are going to take the plunge.

What about the practical side? Well, there is no substitute for experience. The place to start building up your experience with the mechanical side of building to kit bike is with your current ride. Make sure all you can do the basic maintenance on your motorcycle, and then start to do some simple disassembling. Take off the tires, take off the exhaust, real basic stuff; all of this will help to build a new confidence in the shop side of things. You can also get some great videos on maintenance, and even on building the custom bike of your dreams. Read the books, watch the videos, and buy the t-shirt! Believe me, all the preparation you make will stand you in good stead.

If you really are hopeless at the mechanical side of things, why not pay someone else to help you build it, or even get them to build the whole thing for you? The cost of the kit plus labor could well work out cheaper than buying a chopper “off the shelf”.

And of course, when that beautiful chopper is standing on your driveway, and your friends are asking you “Was it worth it?” you can turn to the chopper, drag your hand across the flames on the tank and the polished chrome, turn back to them and say, “What do you think?”

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Michael Holmes is a enthusiast for all thing motorcycle. His website, http://www.motorcycleparts-accessories-andmore.com, is a great resource of articles aimed at motorcyclists of all levels.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Labels: article

Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For a Motorcycle Loan
By Jay Fran

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans:

• Shopping for a Motorcycle Before Shopping for a Motorcycle Loan
• Diving into the Unknown Motorcycle Loan
• Borrowing Too Much
• Not Asking the Right Questions

Shopping for a Motorcycle Before Shopping for a Motorcycle Loan
Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Our Tips
• Rate It don't let "cash back" fool you, compare the rates
• Apply Yourself
use the 'Net to your advantage and apply to more than one loan provider
• Improvement? never use funds from a home improvement loan to buy a bike

Resources & Rates
• Investment Biker
• Adventure Capitalist

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher interest rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the Unknown Motorcycle Loan
Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing Too Much
The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not Asking the Right Questions
The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask:

• Is the interest rate fixed or variable? If fixed how long will it be fixed for?
• Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future?
• What happens if a payment is 30 days late? Does the interest rate increase?
• What happens if a payment is 60 days late? Does the interest rate increase?
• How long is the term on the motorcycle loan?
• If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest? (Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early.)
• What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan?
• Is full coverage insurance required?
• How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan?
• Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees?

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

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Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Labels: article

Motorcycle Protective Clothing That Works!

By Michael Holmes

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?

Our Tips
• Safe Before Save
don't get carried away by a low price
• More than Leather
dollar-to-dollar textile gear can offer more protection than leather

Resources
•Leather Pros/Cons
•Gear Reviews
•More Proficient Motorcycling
•Ride Gear
•Motorcycle USA
•Moto Leather
•Boot Barn

Protection in the right places…

Not many people realize 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 because 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!

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Michael Holmes is a enthusiast for all thing motorcycle. His website, http://www.motorcycleparts-accessories-andmore.com, is a great resource of articles aimed at motorcyclists of all levels.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Labels: article

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

By Michael Holmes

Choosing the right motorcycle helmet can make a difference...

...literally between life and death. But how does an ordinary guy on 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.

Our Tips
•Full Face/No Face open-face helmets are just wrong, if you need to feel the wind try a flip-up.
•Snell?
don't pass up a good helmet just because it doesn't carry the Snell rating.

Resources
•Hurt Report Summary
•More Helmet Sources
•Idiot's Guide to Motorcycles

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 curb. 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 required to make that kind of decision requires someone, somewhere to look at a whole bunch of motorcycle crashes, look at the motorcycle helmet damage, assess where the 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 your 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.

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Michael Holmes is a enthusiast for all thing motorcycle. His website, http://www.motorcycleparts-accessories-andmore.com, is a great resource of articles aimed at motorcyclists of all levels, including a page specifically for cheap motorcycle helmets.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Labels: article

Digital Speedometer
by J. Rex Brown

"So how fast does your dirt bike go?"

UPDATES:
10/2003— Since this review was written Cateye has continually updated their products. The latest version is the Enduro 8 which offers even more features than the model we tested.

7/2004— New innovations now include wireless models making the task of mounting even easier. But where's the fun in that?!?

Available online from PerformanceBike.com

It’s an inevitable question, most often posed by the uninitiated. But most dirt bikes don’t have speedometers.

After selling my KDX200 I really missed having an odometer. Most off-road enthusiasts don’t seem to care that much. But I always found the odo to be… well, interesting one way or another. I mean, it depends on the situation. Sometimes you look down and think: Jeez- we’ve only gone 8 MILES!?! But on a good day, a glance at your odometer is good for an instant `Atta Boy.

I hadn’t really given much thought to putting an odo on my KX250 until I bumped into a fellow at Lake Draper. He had a digital readout on the handlebar that, at first glance, looked like a wristwatch without the strap. Indeed it did tell the time, along with a great deal more. It was a bicycle computer.

To get the story on these bicycle computers I checked with Tom Brown at River Trail Bicycles in Tulsa. He had a selection of different models ranging from $20 to $100 in stock. I was concerned if they could be adapted to motorcycle use since they are calibrated to the circumference of the vehicle’s tire. As it turns out the factory setting is almost perfect for a 21" motorcycle wheel.

Tom’s recommendation was the Cateye Enduro. Cateye produces a wide range of electrical bicycle accessories. This particular model sports a much more substantial cable connecting the pickup unit to the display- an important consideration. Most of the other units come with something on the order of automotive speaker wire. The digital display is water-resistant, and large buttons make it easy to reset or adjust. The main readout shows your current speed whenever the bike is in motion. The lower portion of the display shows your distance, riding time, average speed, maximum speed or overall distance. All of this in vivid liquid crystal gray for less than thirty bucks… and it comes with a clock!

The pickup unit is a sensor that detects the passing of a small magnet with each revolution of the motorcycle’s wheel. A molded cable connects the pickup to a bracket that clamps on to the handlebars. The digital display snaps onto this bracket when in use. For storage or washing, it easily pops back out. The magnet is mounted somewhere on the wheel that will be on line with the pickup assembly. A watch battery in the display makes all this fancy stuff work.

We now have two of these installed and undergoing "field tests". One is mounted on a 1994 Kawasaki KX250 and the other is on a 1996 Suzuki RM125. The photos show the installation on the KX. If you have any interest in mounting one of these to your bike read on…

Installation

Unfortunately, the cable supplied with the Cateye Enduro is not long enough for most motorcycle applications. On a bike with inverted forks you will need to lengthen the wire about a foot, unless you are extremely creative with the mounting of the pickup. In my search for suitable wire that could handle the abuse of the trail, I ended up splicing in a section of wire from a dead computer mouse. After routing my extended wiring alongside the front brake hose I was ready for the fun part, mounting the pickup!

Each bike will be a little different in this department. On the KX there is a convenient bracket that retains the front brake hose. After tweaking this bracket and drilling a small hole the pickup unit was mounted. The only other modification involved was a little carving on the fork protector bracket. At full compression this bracket can smack the end right off the sensor. That small annoyance aside, this location is ideal since the caliper and fork leg protects the pickup and cable from debris.

The approach was a little different on the RM125 because of the conventional forks. As it turned out the front disc guard provided a perfect place to mount the pickup sensor. After drilling a small hole in the guard the pickup was mounted in a matter of minutes.

Finally, attach the magnet to the wheel or brake rotor and you’re done. On the RM the magnet supplied with the Cateye is simply attached to the brake rotor. On the KX I took advantage of the large rivets that hold the brake rotor together. The magnet was mounted using a nylon bushing and push-on cap from the hardware store, some two-part epoxy and a rare earth magnet from Radio Shack. The result is a clean installation that is durable and trail worthy.

Now when people ask, "how fast does it go?" I can take a quick peek and tell them. Actually the most beneficial feature I have discovered so far is the Average Speed setting. Whenever I want to improve my times I go out and find a challenging loop. Check the Average Speed after a run, then reset the unit. Make the same loop and check the Average Speed again to look for improvement. Increasing this figure by just a couple of MPH can be a real accomplishment!

For more information:

PerformanceBike.com

Labels: article, review

This site was originally a promotion for a motocross track outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Beeline MX was built by Brad Mathison on south US-75 near Beggs and the original web page was nothing more than an aerial photo and directions. After about a dozen e-mails from other states we saw a need to list other nearby riding areas. That quickly grew to a statewide listing of Oklahoma tracks and ORV areas. It wasn't long before the list included other states and the name Places 2 Ride was coined.

In 1998, when Places2ride.com began, the emphasis was on dirt riders and the motocross tracks, riding areas and trails that off-roaders thrive on. Eventually that grew to include twisties and scenic highways all over America, and even the world.

Beeline Motocross Park closed after a couple of years. Plenty of area motocrossers enjoyed riding there.

Brad and I keep riding the twisties and backroads looking for those great places to ride. We've even begun shooting video to add to the website.
> Our Favorite Oklahoma Rides

And this site continues to help motorcycle riders find fun places to ride their bikes— no matter whether it's a motocrosser, sportbike or cruiser.



— J. Rex Brown, webmeister

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