How to U-Turn a Motorcycle

It may look easy, but a smoothly executed u-turn on a motorcycle is more challenging than you might guess.

How do you perform a u-turn that looks effortless? Consider these tips and practice them in the safety of an empty parking lot, and you'll find yourself more easily turning your bike around on the street:

It's All in the Eyes

The old adage "You'll go where you're looking" holds especially true when it comes to u-turns. That said, don't look down, and keep your line of vision going through the turn, constantly focusing your eyes ahead, where you want to go, rather than towards the pavement below.

Ride Within the Friction Zone

The friction zone is the area where your clutch is slipping enough to transmit some, but not all power from the engine to the rear wheel. Don't try to u-turn in neutral, and don't do with a gear fully engaged, either; riding within the friction zone will give you more control over the bike through the throttle, which helps modulate the motorcycles's lean angle through subtle adjustments.

Drag the Rear Brake

Avoid using the front brakes during u-turns, as the forks are more sensitive to diving at low speeds. Gentle dragging of the rear brake creates stability, enabling better control while you're maneuvering your bike through the turn.

Keep Your Weight Mass Centralized

There's a natural tendency to stick your leg out when you turn (making it ready to break a fall), but your motorcycle will be more manageable when peripheral mass (ie, you!) is closer to the bike. Keep your feet on the pegs; if necessary, you might be helped by putting some weight on the outside peg, in a similar but more subtle way than you would while riding offroad.

Practice Turning Both Ways

For whatever reason, most people find it much easier to make tight left turns than right turns. To develop a more balanced u-turn skill set, practice doing figure 8s in an empty parking lot. The drill will build your muscle memory for both sides of your body. Similarly, try riding in a wide circle and narrowing your path so you're forming an ever-narrowing spiral; once you can't turn any more tightly, exit and try it again the other way. Remember to keep looking where you want to go, especially when you're changing directions.

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Source: About (Wasef, 1/19)

Pressure Points: Understanding tire air management

Running the proper air pressure in your motorcycle tire is critical. With a relatively small contact patch, and just two wheels connecting you and your bike to the road, the wrong air pressure can have a large effect on safety, performance, tire life, fuel mileage and even the operation of other components, such as suspension or steering.

Few understand the hows and whys of tire air management better than tire manufacturers. We recently caught up with Casey Morris with Michelin to discuss some of the finer points of maintaining your tires.

"Thanks to more than a century of tire technology research, Michelin engineers have found that there's a certain amount of deflection in the tire profile that's optimal for balancing road grip, handling, comfort and durability," Morris says. "That optimum deflection is based upon the tire's construction, the load -- including the weight of the driver and rider -- and the intended use of the motorcycle."

To achieve that optimum deflection, it's up to the motorcycles owners to make sure they keep their tires inflated correctly.

Morris says that during recent events, Michelin engineers checked the air pressure on participants' bikes and found that more than one-third of all motorcycles at these events had improperly inflated tires.

"We found that the front tire pressure was better maintained than the rear tire pressure," Morris says. "Most likely because it is frequently more difficult to access the rear tire inflation stem. But proper inflation in both tires is critical for keeping your motorcycle stable, upright and performing at its best."

Air pressure is particularly important during the peak travel seasons of late summer and early fall for several reasons: warmer temperatures, longer trips and more travel two-up and heavily loaded.

The below tips offer several suggestions for keeping your tires in top shape. They should give you a reasonable guide of where to start before getting ready to jump on, saddle up and enjoy your ride.

If you want to...

Get out on the road more in the summer/early fall:

Then...

Check your pressure when the weather changes.

Also, it’s normal for tires to gradually lose air pressure by as much as one or two pounds per month.

Be safe on the road:

Use motorcycle’s manufacturer’s recommended pressure

Correct tire pressure reduces the risk of tire damage or failure. The wrong tire pressure compromises braking, cornering and stability. Always use the motorcycle’s manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which can be found on the bike placard or in the owner’s manual.

Have a comfortable, smooth ride while maintaining grip, handling and feedback:

Don’t over inflate or under inflate your tires

Over inflation means that less of the tire is actually in contact with the road, meaning there is less available grip. Over inflation also causes the tire to be too stiff, causing a harsh and unpleasant ride. Under inflation adds friction and heat by increasing the sidewall deflection and increasing the area of the tire that is in contact with the road. This excess friction and heat shortens the life of the tire.

Load up your bike for a long road trip:

Know your vehicle weight and load

Riding an overloaded motorcycle is dangerous. Overloading causes excessive heat to build up in your tires, which can lead to tire failure. Be aware of the maximum load rating stamped on the sidewall of your tires, the maximum axle weight rating, and the maximum vehicle load capacity – and never exceed any of them.

Keep your tires rolling for a long time:

Check for wear and proper inflation

Improper inflation can cause uneven tread wear, which will reduce tire longevity. Both over inflation and under inflation cause the tires to age prematurely.

Be a smart, responsible rider:

Check your tire pressure regularly with a reliable gauge

Motorcycle tire manufacturers recommend checking pressure at least once every two weeks. Do not trust your eyes. It’s virtually impossible to determine if a tire is correctly inflated simply by looking at it.

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Source: AMA (AP, 8/29)

Rick Fairless and Allstate launch motorcycle safety program

It’s well-known that riders tend to listen more closely when it’s one of their own bringing the message. Who better to bring up the hot topic of motorcycle safety than a rider known worldwide for his custom motorcycles, television appearances and owner of Strokers Dallas, a little slice of motorcycle heaven in Texas.

Clutch and Chrome caught up with custom bike builder and motorcycle celebrity Rick Fairless at Sturgis on Thursday to discuss his work with Allstate Insurance Company and their newest initiative under its Rider Protection Project portfolio, a series of programs all focused on making the roads a safer place to ride.

The latest initiative is the Allstate Good Ride Grant contest which looks to the riding community for their ideas on advancing motorcycle safety and awareness. Good Ride Grants joins Rider Risk Map, Once is Never Enough (O.N.E.) and other rider advocacy initiatives, all part of Allstate’s commitment to protecting riders.

Putting money where their heart is Allstate Insurance Company’s Good Ride Grants will award a combined total of $25,000 to contest winners with the best ideas. Now through Aug. 31, 2013, contest applicants may submit their Good Ride Grant submissions through the designated tab on Allstate Motorcycle’s Facebook page. Entries are welcome from anyone, including local governments, dealerships, rider clubs and individuals.

“Riding a motorcycle presents a feeling of freedom, adventure and camaraderie with fellow riders, but we also know the risks that come along with it,” said Keith Rutman, vice president of Allstate's Powersports unit. “The Good Ride Grant program allows Allstate to continue our mission of protecting riders while also keeping an open ear to the riding community and what they feel is important.”

The first 1,000 contest entries to be submitted before Aug. 31 will be reviewed and finalists will be chosen by a six-person judging committee, comprising of representatives from Allstate and a diverse collection of motorcycle industry professionals, including custom motorcycle builder Rick Fairless.

“I’m proud to partner with Allstate on an issue that has always been top of mind for me, and I think that the Good Ride Grant program is a great way to empower our riding community to help each other protect what is a lifestyle for so many of us by making it as safe as possible,” said Fairless.

“There are lots of people out there that ride and lots of ideas,” Rick says,’ Give’em to me. What’s the ideas, we’re going to take the idea’s and whittle them down.”

Joining Fairless on the judging committee is Keith Rutman, vice president of Allstate's Powersports unit; Rusty Creed, Allstate agency owner; Rod Krois, Indian Motorcycle’s Marketing Director; Bryan Harley, Motorcycle USA Editor; and Don Becklin, Motorcycle Superstore / Motorcycle USA founder and Motorsport Aftermarket Group’s retail group president.

Both Allstate Insurance Company and Rick obviously enjoy working together, the two are on their third year of bringing similar programs and initiatives to the riding community.

In September, the judges will determine the top 15 finalists. The finalists will then be featured on the Allstate Motorcycle Facebook page, where fans can vote for their favorite ideas. The five finalists with the highest overall contest scores by Oct. 31 will each receive a $5,000 grant to help put their ideas into action.

Complete details on the Allstate Good Ride Grant contest and details on how to submit an idea, visit Facebook.com/AllstateMotorcycle and click on the Good Ride Grant tab icon.

During the interview, it’s clear that Rick is riding what he’s promoting, motorcycle safety and awareness.

“It's not only how I’m riding but how I’m trying to get my children to ride,” Rick explains, “My daughter Lena is up here with me and she rides with me. I’m staying out of the blind spots and when I’m turning the corner I’m looking to see if there’s gravel or oil along the road.”

“When I’m going down the road I’m watching what’s going behind me as well as all around me,” he explains further.

Motorcycle safety education is obviously key according to the current initiative as well as the legendary bike builder.

“You have to teach the young people how to ride,” he explains “I had to teach my daughter to look behind her when she stops at a stop sign to make sure that jack behind you is putting on his brakes too!”

“It’s awareness and education and that’s the kind of stuff we’re trying to do [with Allstate Insurance Company] and I’m doing more [of this] now than I did ten years ago,” he says.

And Rick is a firm believer of motorcycle safety courses. He noted that in the state of Texas new riders are required to take a motorcycle safety course to qualify for a motorcycle endorsement on their license.

“I was big behind that requirement,” Rick proudly says, “You’ve got to get an official trainer to show you those things.”

Thursday was the first day of the Allstate Good Ride Grant contest and the reaction has been great according to Fairless.

“Everybody that rides wants it to be safer. Now bikers who sit around and say those ‘sure wishes’ can take them and turn the ‘sure wishes’ into a reality with the Good Ride Grant program,” he says.

“Just don’t sit around talking about it,” Rick continues taking on a slightly sterner tone, “let’s do something about it!”

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Source: Clutch and Chrome (AP, 8/09)

Unique motorcycle safety device aims to reduce rear-end collisions

Look ma, no brakes.

But slow down anyway!

California startup Vectolabs has developed a new type of safety light for motorcycles that illuminates when the bike slows down, regardless of whether or not the rider is using the brakes.

Called Vololights, the device is comprised of two sets of LEDs built into a license plate holder that’s fitted with an accelerometer and CPU. When it senses that the motorcycle it is installed on starts slowing down, a pattern of blinking lights goes off to get the attention of following vehicles.

Since motorcycles decelerate much quicker than four-wheel vehicles when you let up on the accelerator or downshift, many riders don’t use the brakes to slow down as often as car and truck drivers do. Doing either of these things will cause the Vololights to flash twice per second, while using the brakes will flash them five times per second to indicate a more severe stopping event, augmenting the motorcycle’s stock lights.

Many motorcycle organizations and state departments of motor vehicles already encourage riders to flash their brakes when slowing, a step Vectolabs is simply looking to automate. It is also aimed at owners of some classic bikes, including 1960s Vespa scooters where the hand grip for the front brakes isn’t even connected to the lights, only the brake pedal is.

A number of electric cars, including the Tesla Model S, illuminate their brake lights as soon as you lift off of the accelerator, as their electric motors instantly start generating electricity and forcibly slow the car down in the process. Even more so than with motorcycles, you can drive these kinds of cars much of the time without using the brakes at all.

Vectolabs says Vololights fits a variety of motorcycles and is confident that it will conform to state and federal legal requirements for lighting, but will recommend users check their local laws. A ‘stealth mode’ turns off the system if you drive somewhere they are not allowed.

But don’t mount up and head to the motorcycle shop just yet. Vectolabs is in the middle of a Kickstarter campaign that aims to raise $50,000 by June 12th in order to put the Vololights into production. A number of pledge levels are available, but it’ll cost you at least $69 if you want to get on the list for a kit.

In the meantime, watch out behind you.

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Source: Fox News (AP, 5/29)

What To Wear When You Ride

Proper gear is essential to safe riding. Wearing the right clothing always makes the sport more enjoyable and more comfortable, too.

HELMET

Around the block or around the world, it makes sense to leave home with a helmet on your head. IT’S ONE OF THE BEST ITEMS OF PROTECTION YOU CAN USE.

Helmets come in all sizes, from extra small (XS) to extra large (XL). There are also helmets for children. When you buy a helmet, make sure it fits properly. Try it on; it should be comfortable to wear, neither too tight nor too loose. Remember, it is going to spend a lot of time on your head.

A full-face helmet gives the most protection since it covers all of the head and face.

Always fasten the helmet strap. If the helmet is not secured, it is doing about as much good as if it were on the shelf at home.

Did you know that all adult-sized motorcycle helmets now sold in the United States must have a sticker indicating DOT (Department of Transportation) compliance, which means that the helmet meets certain basic impact standards? Don’t buy a helmet without one; it may not meet standards. Helmets vary greatly in price and style. Buy one that suits you. Wear it. Fasten it every time you throw a leg over the motorcycle.

A good helmet makes motorcycling a lot more pleasurable because it cuts down on the wind noise and greatly reduces rider fatigue. The days of heavy or cumbersome helmets are gone; they’re now made of light new materials with terrific designs and colors to choose from.

If you do drop your helmet onto a hard surface, or it receives a heavy blow, it is probably time to buy a new one. A motorcycle helmet is designed to absorb the impact of a blow, and a helmet should only do that once. If in doubt, get a new one.

EYE PROTECTION

Riding with bare eyeballs is a gamble. Your eyes are precious, and it does not take much to injure one.

A windshield on a motorcycle is not eye protection; a bit of sand or tiny piece of glass can whip in behind it and get in your eye.

Proper eye protection means an approved shield on your helmet, a pair of goggles, or shatterproof glasses. Settling for less just isn’t worth the risk.

Make sure your eye protection is clean and unscratched. If you use a tinted lens or shield for riding in the bright sunlight, take a clear one along as well, in case you are riding after dark.

JACKET

Motorcycle jackets are made in many sturdy materials: denim, nylon in its various guises, corduroy, and leather. The hide of a cow, or any other commonly used leather, offers you the most protection when it comes to abrasion. You can buy leather jackets with zippered vents, which are comfortable to wear even in hot weather as they allow a breeze to flow through.

PANTS

These should be made of a thick material, such as leather. They resist abrasion and provide protection from the elements. A pair of loose, light cotton pants that flap in the wind is not very good riding gear. A number of companies sell leather riding pants, and you can get pants and jacket combinations that zip together.

Some riders choose jackets and pants with rigid "body armor" inserts in critical areas for additional protection.

GLOVES

Always wear gloves. Even on a hot day. The car in front of you may throw up a stone that hits your fingers. Ouch! Also, bare hands cannot withstand abrasion in the event of a fall.

BOOTS

Over-the-ankle boots, please. Preferably made of strong leather. Your ankles are very complicated; protect them.

A boot with a slippery sole could cause embarrassment when you put your foot down at a greasy gas station. Rubber soles, with a good tread design, offer better gripping possibilities.

RAINGEAR

It rains everywhere in this country, some places more than others. Inevitably you will be caught out in the rain. Why not have a good motorcycle rainsuit along, with rain-covers for boots and gloves as well? It’s a lot more fun riding in the rain when you’re dry.

HEARING PROTECTION

Long-term exposure to engine and wind noise can cause permanent hearing damage, even if you wear a full-face helmet. Whether you choose disposable foam plugs or reusable custom-molded devices, proper protection reduces noise, while allowing you to hear important sounds like car horns. Make sure you follow your state’s laws when using hearing protection.

HIGH-VISIBILITY GEAR

The better people see you, the less likely they are to run into you. Brightly colored clothing is preferable to drab, dark clothing.

You can buy special vests which are designed to make it easier for others to see you. Some military bases feel strongly about this feature and require all motorcyclists to wear them.

For nighttime, you can buy clothing that reflects light, and put reflective strips on your helmet and the backs of your boots. Every little bit helps.

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source: Motorcycle Safety Foundation