Bombardier Recalling Three-Wheel Motorcycles for Fuel Leaks

Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. is recalling certain Can-Am Spyder GS, RS and RT vehicles from the 2008 to 2012 model years because of a problem that could result in fuel leaks and possible fires.

Some of the three-wheeled, motorcycle-like vehicles have fuel caps that may not fit properly and as a result do not seal the fuel tank. If the fuel cap does not seal properly, it may allow fuel vapor to escape. The vapor could ignite under certain conditions. In a document filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, BRP said the recall affects 33,700 vehicles.

BRP, a maker of snowmobiles, personal watercraft and four-wheel all-terrain vehicles developed the Spyder as an alternative to traditional motorcycles. Riding one feels like a mix of motorcycling and snowmobiling.

Under the recall BRP will notify owners and send them replacement fuel caps free of charge. The recall is expected to begin next month. Customers may contact BRP at 888-638-5397.

_____________________________
Source: The Wall Street Journal (Welsh, 12/21)

On The Road This Holiday Season, Beware Of Drivers Who Won't Put Down The Internet

Just in time for the busiest travel season of the year, State Farm has released its annual research report on distracted driving, with troubling results. Though texting while driving remains a concern on the nation's highways, people are also webbing while driving with increasing frequency. These behaviors may pose equal or greater concerns in the effort to reduce distracted driving.

The July 2012 survey of nearly 1000 motorists shines a light on a growing safety concern: people accessing the internet while driving. Four years of data show a significant increase in the use of mobile web services while driving.

The growing popularity of smart phones is contributing to the escalating numbers. The survey revealed an increase in the percentage of drivers who own mobile web devices, as well as an increase in the number of people who say they access the internet while driving.

"The mobile internet is generating another set of distractions for drivers to avoid," said Chris Mullen, Director of Technology Research at State Farm. "While the safety community is appropriately working to reduce texting while driving, we must also be concerned about the growing use of multiple mobile web services while driving."

While the distracted driving focus has traditionally been on young people, the data indicate that motorists of all ages are using the mobile web while driving.

For drivers 18-29:

Accessing the internet while on a cell phone while driving increased from 29 percent in 2009 to 48 percent in 2012.

Reading social media networks while driving increased from 21 percent in 009 to 36 percent in 2012.

Checking email while driving rose from 32 percent in 2009 to 43 percent in 2012.

For all drivers, the data showed:

Smart phone ownership is on the rise, and people who report webbing while driving goes down with age.

Accessing the internet while on a cell phone increased from 13 percent in 2009 to 21 percent in 2012.

Reading social media networks while driving increased from 9 percent in 2009 to 15 percent in 2012.

When asked for their opinion on ways to reduce distracted driving, 72 percent of drivers surveyed strongly agree with laws or regulations prohibiting texting or emailing behind the wheel. However, almost two-thirds believe that laws governing cell phone use while driving are enforced to little or no extent. To a lesser degree, 45 percent were extremely likely to support technology that would prevent texting or talking on a cell phone while driving.

"State Farm continues to support a multi-pronged approach to encouraging more engaged driving," Mullen said. "Regulation, enforcement, education and technology all have a role to play in making our roads safer for all who share them."

About the survey:

In August 2009 and 2010, and in July 2011 and 2012, State Farm's Strategic Resources Department used an outside panel vendor to conduct an online survey of U.S. consumers ages 18+. Survey responses were received from approximately 1,000 consumers each year, who identified themselves as having some insurance and financial responsibility for their household.

Only responses from consumers who had a valid driver's license, owned a cell phone, and reported driving between 1 and 80 hours per week were used when reporting the findings of behavior-based questions. Responses from all respondents were used for the attitudinal questions.

______________________________
Source: Motorcycle Cruiser (11/19)

Mission R Electric Racer

Steve Rapp’s visit to Laguna Seca in 2011 was more successful than his 2012 visit—where, despite a valiant effort, he failed to qualify the Attack Racing CRT bike for the MotoGP event. In 2011, aboard the Mission R built in a converted fire station in nearby San Francisco by Mission Motors, he won the TTXGP e-Power race for electric bikes so convincingly he finished the eight-lap race an impressive 39.9 seconds ahead of the second-place finisher.

It’s clearly a fast, capable motorcycle. But does it work in the real world? Finding the answer could be interesting, and here was Mission making the offer to let me ride a street-legal version. I couldn’t refuse.

First impressions: You feel part of the bike rather than perched atop an angular-shaped battery pack, as on the Mission R’s predecessor, the Mission One. Once you’ve switched the bike on and its systems are ready, there’s nothing more to do than twist and go. In doing so, I immediately noticed there wasn’t the same humungous hit of torque found on the Mission One. The Mission R’s pickup is far more progressive thanks to remapping of the ride-by-wire throttle over the first 5–10 percent of available revs. Still, the Mission R can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in three seconds, according to the company. This literally awesome performance off the line comes in spite of the bike’s hefty weight of 545 pounds wet.

The only sounds the Mission R makes at slow speeds come from road noise and a hint of chain whir, plus a subdued whine from the straight-cut primary reduction gears. But get out of town and see the road unfold ahead, and that whine becomes an utterly thrilling speed scream.

The motor is connected to the primary gear reduction via a small single-speed planetary gearbox. So with no need to worry about selecting the right gear for a given turn, you can focus on braking where you should, picking a good line and feeding in the power on the way out. The Mission R has regenerative braking—using the motor as a generator on deceleration to partially recharge the batteries—and the Mission’s aggressive regen meant I hardly ever needed to use the brakes to slow down for a bend.

Apart from the improved throttle response and torque delivery, the most significant difference between the R and the Mission One was the much superior handling of the James Parker-designed frame. Whereas the older bike felt much more top heavy, the Mission R is more neutral steering and considerably more precise.

These are impressions confirmed during a late-afternoon stint around Infineon Raceway.

Preparing the bike for my evening run on the scenic, switchback Bay Area center of speed involved backing the regen right off as Rapp had requested for Laguna Seca. There was still a little left in, which helped stop the bike on the downhill stretches. But except for its hefty overall weight, which I definitely became more aware of on the racetrack compared to the street, the Mission R now resembled a 500GP racer of the 1990s.

On the Mission R, this meant I could focus on braking as hard and late as I dared, knowing there was no electronic impediment to keeping up my chosen turn speed. The bike felt balanced and relatively agile considering all the weight it was carrying. I especially liked the way it was so stable under braking. There was zero instability even stopping hard into the Turn 7 and 11 hairpins, where the extra pounds made sure the rear tire stayed glued to the track.

The creation of the Mission R is a further key step in the evolution of the sportbike. E-bikes have seen some resistance in the marketplace, but there's no denying that electric drivetrains are part of motorcycling's future. “What sold me on coming to work here was not zero emissions, but a recognition that the world has changed very much in the past ten years,” says Mission’s Jit Bhattacharya. “We’re looking for alternatives to oil, coal...simply as an availability issue, before considering emissions or the environment. And electricity is one answer, irrespective of what we use to generate it in future. For so long we’ve associated electric drive with sacrifice. The public needs to have its perceptions about electric drive changed. And the best way to do this is to build something electric that blows their mind and performs in a way they didn’t think was possible. That’s the Mission R.”

Yes, indeed. But this motorcycle is far too good to remain a race-only wonder, a Mission Motors calling card to its future e-customers. Someone, somewhere—please pick up this project and bring it to market. You’ll be reducing the world’s carbon footprint in addition to inventing a new kind of production motorcycle with built-in thrills.

________________________
Source: Motorcyclist (11/11)

SCHUBERTH COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR S2 HELMET

 S2 customers have been eagerly awaiting the SRC-System™, Schuberth’s in-helmet Bluetooth® communication system which is based on the Cardo Scala platform.

The S2 full face is the only motorcycle helmet in the world with built-in FM and Bluetooth® antennas which plug directly into the SRC-System and enhance the communication distance between paired helmets as well as the FM radio reception.

The SRC-System™ allows up to three riders to communicate wirelessly with each other simultaneously and supports Bluetooth®-enabled peripheral devices such as cell phones, GPS units and MP3 players. The most important functions can also be operated by voice commands.

The system is integrated into a replacement neck collar that is a ‘snap’ to install and fits into the helmet perfectly.

The S2 SRC-System™ and S2 helmet are available now from authorized Schuberth dealers.

SRC-System(TM) for S2:

- USD $429

S2 Full Face Helmet:

- Solid Colors: $699

- Hi-Viz: $729

- Graphics: $749

__________________________________
Source: Cycle World (11/21)

2013 Honda CB 1100 Motorcycle Review

It’s easy to label the new 2013 Honda CB1100 motorcycle as “retro,” but to younger riders, which also can mean “for old guys,” that must be a bit off-putting. So let’s put that image aside for now and look at the CB1100 for what it actually is: a great street bike in its own right that doesn’t need to lean on past glories to be appealing.

Physically, the 2013 Honda CB1100 is quite a large motorcycle, so it looks and feels substantial to sit on - like you’ve got some real value for money. The bars are a little high rise for my taste, so I’d put slightly flatter (read: sportier) bars on. Otherwise, the rubber covered footpegs are nicely positioned and the overall riding position is upright, but slightly leaned forward - just right in other words. The clocks are large and easy to read, and everything works as every Honda always does.

The CB1100 is noticeably unencumbered by acres of plastic wrapped around it, so the powerful-looking 1140cc air- and oil-cooled DOHC motor is fully on display. The engine itself also looks substantial, and as the centerpiece it gives the bike a very appealing, muscular look. 

Feel is as beautifully smooth as you would expect from a Honda inline four, and although it don’t put out superbike numbers on the dyno, the 2013 CB1100 feels sporty and with a strong mid-range - exactly what’s needed on the street.

The motor pulls well from low-down, and it never feels buzzy. If you thrash it to the redline, then it produces very acceptable thrust; it feels like it is punching way above its weight limit. When an insider hinted to me that the CB1100’s horsepower is in the 80s, I was very surprised, as the feel of the bike isn’t lacking at all. The 5-speed gearbox is smooth and seamless; the lever throw isn’t particularly short, but clutchless upshifts are an easy no-brainer.

Suspension for the Honda CB1100 is handled by standard forks at the front and twin shocks at the rear, with spring preload being the only available adjustment. The ride is supple and quite sporting, but the suspension is also very compliant and handles the real-world surface with aplomb. Handling is well balanced, neutral on turn-in, and stable; even fast sweepers couldn’t upset the chassis, it felt that planted.

Brakes are twin discs up front and, although they’re not the latest radial set-up, they handle stopping adequately. As an owner of a 2013 Honda CB1100, I’d probably experiment with different pad grades to get a little more bite for fast riding.

I’ve refrained from using the word “nice” in this brief ride review, but I can hold off no longer. The CB1100 is a very nice bike; it does everything it should and looks great while doing it. Younger guys looking to trade up to a big, muscular bike, and who don’t want an uncompromising supersport machine, should look hard at the CB1100.

The $9999 price tag is very appealing, and passengers will dig the accommodations - for the rider, this bike will do it all and in style. Yes, it’s retro and hearkens back to the old days when one bike did everything - and that’s no bad thing - but I’m excited to see Honda bring a good-looking, strong performer, at a reasonable price to the US. 

The 2013 Honda CB1100 is a great alternative to the racetrack refugee machines that don’t fit a lot of people’s needs and new owners will not be disappointed.



2013 Honda CB1100 Specs:

• Model: CB1100
• Engine Type: 1140cc air- and oil-cooled inline four-cylinder
• Bore and Stroke: 73.5mm x 67.2mm
• Compression ratio: 9.5:1
• Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder
• Induction: PGM-FI with automatic enrichment circuit, 32mm throttle bodies
• Ignition: Digital transistorized with electronic advance
• Transmission: Five-speed
• Final Drive: #530 O-ring-sealed chain
• Suspension Front: 41mm fork with spring preload adjustability; 4.7 inches travel
• Suspension Rear: Dual shocks with spring preload adjustability; 3.5 inches travel
• Brakes Front: Dual four-piston calipers with full-floating 296mm discs
• Brakes Rear: Single-caliper 256mm disc
• Brakes: Optional Honda ABS
• Tire Front: 110/80-18
• Tire Rear: 140/70-18
• Wheelbase: 58.7 inches
• Rake (Caster angle): 27.0°
• Trail: 114mm (4.5 inches)
• Seat Height: 31.3 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 3.9 gallons, including 0.9-gallon reserve
• Estimated Fuel Economy**: TBD
• Color: Candy Red
• Curb Weight*: 540 pounds

__________________
Source: The Ultimate Motorcycling (Coldwells, 11/12)

The South Texas Motorcycle Museum

The South Texas Motorcycle Museum was opened in 2008, after being inspired by one of the most breath taking Exhibitions, the "Moving Metal Motorcycle Exhibit" at the International Museum of Art and Science that was opened from 2006 through 2007.

During this expedition 40 rare motorcycles designed by circa 1913-2007, represented a part of a diverse private collection of world-class motorbikes.

Some of the bikes that were displayed were the classic replica of the 1969 Captain America Chopper by Panhead and the 1917 Harley Davidson J, a signature model for Harley. It is easy to see how someone would get inspired after seeing some motorcycles that contributed to the American culture.

The "Moving Metal Motorcycle Exhibit" represented the beauty of a growing culture. This attracted more than antique motorcycle collectors. It got the attention of Educated students, adults, and seniors from all around the world were attracted to the culture, engineering, the art, and history of motorcycles.

The Exhibition’s success inspired a private collector and community philanthropist to endow the South Texas Motorcycle Museum with a lifetime collection of motorcycles in order to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage that motorbikes have become. In 2009 the South Texas Motorcycle Museum achieved its nonprofit status.

To this day the general public has the opportunity to view the full collection through the South Texas Motorcycle Museum. Throughout the year different models are displayed. Even though the motorcycles are very old, every motorcycle displayed is kept in running order, and maintained by Dirty Dave's Cycles and can be viewed in and out of the museum.

The South Texas Motorcycle Museum is located in Edinburg, Texas just 2 miles East of HWY 281. From McAllen, take 281 North to the Schunior Rd. / Richardson Rd. / Chapin Rd. Exit and turn right at the light onto Richardson Rd. Go 2 miles and you'll see us on the left hand side of the road. The museum is open on weekends: Saturdays 12-6 and Sundays 12-5. For more information call 956.292.0770.

Visit us at the 2012 Lone Star Rally

This Thursday, November 1, through Sunday, November 4, is the 2012 Lone Star Rally in Galveston, Texas. It's one of the biggest biker parties in Texas. With tons of live music -- including a special performance by Brett Michaels -- bike shows, contests, rides, vendors, military tributes, and more, this is one rally you won't want to miss. And Texas Biker Lawyers will be there!

Some celebrity builders will be in attendance as well, including: Eddie Trotta, Paul Yaffe, Rick Fairless, the Martin Brothers, John Shope, Brigitte Bourget, RB Customs, and Southern Metal Choppers. There will also be 3 stages for non-stop music for each day of the rally. More information can be found on the Lone Star Rally Website's Entertainment section here.

There will be multiple bike events, including a Fallen Heroes Poker Run, Outlaw Dave's Ranch Ride, and a tire burn-out event. There's also the Contest and Promenade, which encourages fans and attendees to dress up, theme out in costume, and show your love for the motorcycle community, in a sort of epic parade of bikes, trikes, and floats.

Of course, one of the big draws to this rally is the attendance of some of the stars of the acclaimed motorcycle gang drama on FX, Sons of Anarchy. Charlie Hunnam, who plays the character of "Jax" on the show, will be at the rally both Friday and Saturday, with a meet-and-greet to take place on Saturday, November 3rd, from 1pm to 6pm with some special surprise guests.

Join The Cole Legal Group at the rally, as we will be giving away some of our free swag: keychains, backpacks, glasses (depending on availability). We'll also be ready and willing to take your questions about motorcycle accident cases, should the need ever arise in your riding future. We serve many locations in Texas, including Dallas / Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Waxahachie.

5 Rational Ways to Lower Your Motorcycle Insurance Premiums

Motorcycle insurance premiums are normally higher than insurance for automobile drivers because motorcycle drivers are more vulnerable to accidents and mishaps. If you are a high-risk motorcyclist, such as one who has had a DUI or has frequent accidents, rates could go even higher. These are the top five rational ways to lower your motorcycle insurance premiums.

Way #1: Join a Club

Many riders’ clubs have advanced riding skills training aimed at improving your riding skills on the road. The membership and skills training can help reduce the cost of insurance or even get a flat out discount from some insurance carriers. Some of the major worldwide motorcycling clubs you may consider are: BMW motorcycle club and Harley owners association.

Way #2: Be Completely Honest With Insurance Agents

When buying a policy, be completely honest about your riding habits. Many insurance companies have lower premiums for lower mileage riders. Bear this in mind when you are purchasing your motorbike’s policy and be completely honest when you declare your intended riding mileage. If you don’t use your bike often--for example, if it’s just a weekend toy--see if it’s possible to cap the mileage limit.

Your riding experience, riding history and length of ownership for your bike are also factors that might affect your insurance rate. Generally more experienced riders with incident-free records are given lower premiums than young thrill seekers with a record of regular accidents or traffic violations. It’s best to be honest about your record, as most insurance companies will do a background check and find out about accidents or other incidents anyway.

Way #3: Choose The Level of Coverage That Saves You The Most

By and large, your level of coverage is the main factor in determining the price of your premium. Comprehensive insurance that includes cover for your bike in case it is damaged is generally more expensive; however, it gives a lot of extra protection when needed. These extra benefits include coverage for breakdowns and legal expenses as well as other options that will lower your out-of-pocket expenses if an incident occurs. Third party coverage, on the other hand, has a lower premium and offers great savings but does not cover any damage claims.

There is also such a thing as being over insured. If you have medical coverage via another type of insurance, that policy will most likely include accident coverage. In this case, getting medical coverage on your motorbike insurance is redundant and costly.

Way #4: Include Security and Safety Gear in Your Motorcycle Purchase

A majority of motorcycle related claims are theft related. Thus, installing a security system such as an immobilizer will definitely shave money off your premium. Keeping your bike in a garage or a secure parking structure also contributes a lot to reducing your premium.

Proper riding gear such as helmets and padding will keep you safe in the event of an accident and reduce risk of grievous injury, thus lowering your medical expenses. Riding without such safety gear may result in your premium being invalidated.

Way #5: Pay a Monthly Premium

It can be difficult to pay a year’s worth of insurance for your bike, especially in tough economic times. It is more pragmatic to break down the insurance to manageable installments. Setting up an installment plan via your insurer can sometimes be more expensive. Consider paying the entire premium on a zero rate or low interest credit card and then paying the credit card balance over a period of months.

Picking the right insurance company for you can ultimately save you a lot of money and grief when it comes to making claims for damages. The tips above should help you find the policy that’s right for you and your budget so that you can enjoy riding your bike.

___________________________
Source: Carlton Wright Insurance Agency (10/15)

How to Restore your Classic Motorcycle

Restoring a classic motorcycle is a motorcycle enthusiast's ultimate activity. It allows you to combine your love for classic motorcycles with your interest and appreciation for craftsmanship, mechanics and hard work. Restoring a motorcycle requires competent knowledge of motorcycle mechanics and proper equipment and tools in order to be successful. Before getting started with the actual work, however, you will need to decide which classic bike you want to restore.

• Research and choose the make and model of the classic motorcycle you want to restore. According to Verticalscope Inc.'s website "Motorcycle," popular choices include 1950s and 1960s English bikes. However, these have become costly and difficult to find, so one alternative would be the 650cc twin-engine English bikes of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
• Purchase your classic motorcycle, preferably one that is equipped with the original engine and make sure you get the manufacturer's parts book that corresponds to your bike. Perform a complete tear down of the motorcycle. Document all of the parts with photos and notes and arrange them in an accessible manner so you know what you are dealing with.
• Antique Car Parts Take your motor to an engine shop that specializes in the type of bike you have. An engine shop will be equipped with the ability and tools necessary to fully clean the engine, build the parts that need rebuilding and polish the metal parts of the engine.
• Sandblast the frame and the swing arm of your motorcycle. Analyze them for any damage from battery acid, any cracks, twists or extra holes. Weld any cracks and repair any other damage.
• Replace all of the nuts and bolts of your engine with stainless steel parts that are as close to the original size as possible. The engine frame studs, however, must be the exact dimensions as the originals in order to avoid vibration and other problems later on.
• Purchase replacement shocks if necessary. According to Verticalscope Inc.'s website "Motorcycle," shocks for the majority of classic motorcycles out there can still be purchased new. Examine the forks for straightness and cracks. If your forks have any major problems, send them to a forks specialist to have them repaired properly.
• Repair or replace the other remaining parts such as the brakes, hubs and rims. Many traditional parts can be ordered. Alternatively, you can retrofit your classic bike with a newer set of alloy wheels.
• Powder-coat the frame and all of the frame-related painted parts according to either your specific preferences or the bike's original colors. Have any chrome components that have rusted or worn over the years re-chromed to bring out the bike's original brilliance.
• Rebuild the bike with the new and restored parts to complete your restoration. Store your bike in a dry and warm place when it is not being ridden to preserve the bike's condition.

______________________
Source: Ehow (Schatz)

Blind woman becomes first to travel globe

55 YEAR-old Cathy Birchall from Warrington, riding pilion with her husband Bernard, has become the first blind woman to circumvent the globe on a motorcycle.

Cathy suffers with retinitis pigmentosa and has been blind for much of her life. She met husband Bernard Smith seven years ago, while he was working as a teacher for the Royal National Institute of Blind People and she for charity Action For Blind People. She had never been on a motorcycle before she met Bernard, who, long harbouring a desire to travel the world on his 1990 BMW R100RT, convinced her to take a year-long sabbatical.

Their journey began in August 2008, but now, with the release of their book 'Touching The World: A Blind Woman, Two Wheels and 25,000 miles', her extraordinary story is coming to light.

The couple's travels encompassed Europe, Asia, Australia, South America and North America and took a year. In Peru, Cathy also became the first blind woman to climb Huayana Pichu, Machu Pichu's sister mountain.

Cathy recorded her experiences on a tape recorder as she went, describing the pair's experiences. Using an intercom system, Bernard would describe the scenery through which they passed. Speaking to Manchester Evening News, Cathy described her experience of the journey:

'I could smell the heat of the deserts, the cool from the mountains. I could hear the silence when you are up in the mountains. I could hear the hustle and bustle as we were going through street markets. I could feel the temperature. All the other senses kicked in and gave me a full picture.

“And I spoke to people – the everyday people we came across. That made the trip.'

Sadly, six weeks after their return from the trip, Cathy was diagnosed with breast cancer for which she is still being treated. Writing the book, she says, has given her focus throughout the treatment.

In publishing the book, Bernard and Cathy hope to get visual impairment literature 'into the mainstream in a positive way.'

_______________________________
Source: VisorDown (Dodd,9/19)

Happy Almost S.R.V. Day!

October 3 is considered Stevie Ray Vaughan Day, so what better thing to do than to come celebrate the life and music of Texas' one and only Stevie Ray Vaughan with the 18th annual S.T.V. Remembrance Ride and Concert, October 7. It will be held in the world's largest Hooters 11:15 sharp in the heart of West End Dallas.

The Stevie Ray Vaughan Remembrance Ride & Concert was started in the early 90's as a way of honoring the life and music of Stevie, who passed away in a tragic helicopter accident during the late 80's. All the proceeds from the concert will be going to the S.R.V. Memorial Scholarship Fund.

There will be various parties being held before and after the Remembrance ride and concert . A day before the big day there will be a pre-party held at Rick Fairless' Strokers Dallas and the day of the parade and concert, which will be held in the Cowboys Dance Hall in Arlington from 12-6:30pm, there will be an after party at All Star Diamond Jim's Saloon from 7pm to 2am.

Concert will showcase both famous and local talent blues bands like the Ian Moore Band, Kayla Reeves, Van Wilks, and the Harles Brothers, just to name a few. Pre-ordered tickets cost $20 and $25 at the door. All tickets are general admission and all seats are considered great seats. Parking is free.

So join in on the fun and the endless hours of music this October 7!

___________________________
Source: Stevie Ray Vaughan Remembrance Ride and Concert

10 Ways to save gas on your motorcycle

One of the many reasons we love motorcycles is because they don't burn gas like crazy, well some do but at least they are capable of achieving impressive fuel economy numbers under certain circumstances. Texas Rider has a few tips on how to keep more money in your pocket and not in the gas tank.

 Don't Lollygag During Warmup

Warming up a bike's engine is part of the riding ritual, but most fuel-injected motorcycles are actually ready to ride instantly, making the warm-up routine a bit of overkill.

If you're confident the engine won't stall or rev sluggishly, riding off without waiting will not only avoid wasting fuel while idling, it will enable the motor to reach operating temperature more quickly, which will enhance combustion efficiency and allow you to achieve better fuel economy.

Don't Let Your Tire Pressure Drop

One of the quickest and most effective ways to boost your MPGs is to check your tire pressure. Find the pressure rating for your tire on the sidewall or owner's manual; not only will hitting the correct PSI boost your fuel economy, it will also improve your bike's handling. And while some hypermilers swear by running on higher-than-recommended PSIs, we recommend you stick to the recommended figures for maximum safety.

Take Care of Your Baby

Motorcycles run best when their engines are maintained, and that includes making sure the air filter is clean, the spark plugs are fresh, the fuel filter is free, and the timing/valves are adjusted.

Some economy-minded riders even use lower friction, energy saving oil for lubrication. Whether or not you're interested in going that far, some basic maintenance can make a surprisingly big difference in fuel economy.

Smooth it Out

Focus on maintaining constant speeds, smooth throttle inputs, and avoiding unnecessary slowing, and you'll watch your fuel economy rise. Not only does even-keeled riding allow you to stretch your gas budget, it makes for smoother and potentially more enjoyable rides.

Lower Your Cruising Speeds

Motorcycles offer amazing performance that fits between your legs-- hence the term "crotch rocket"-- and the rush of acceleration and high-speed cruising can be addictive. But twisting the throttle hard quickly kills your fuel economy, as does high-speed cruising.

Think of it this way: highway speed limits were created partially in order to conserve gas, and following the rules will not only enable you to ride farther, it could help keep your DMV record clean.

Get That Junk Out of Your Trunk

The more weight your motorcycle has to haul around, the harder the engine has to work. If you've got saddlebags on your bike, empty them out if you can afford to do without extra junk. Even better: if you're not using the saddlebags all the time, remove them for a relatively quick and easy weight loss tactic.

Practice Your Aim

When you're in a hurry to fill up and still wearing a helmet and gloves, you're probably not paying much attention to your refueling tactics.

Take some care while positioning the nozzle into the fuel filler, and you'll not only save a few cents by avoiding spilling, you'll also protect your paint from the damaging effects of stray fuel. Also, avoid the temptation to overfill your tank, as the spillover will create a mess and waste fuel.

Think Aero

Aerodynamic drag has a serious effect on fuel economy, and pushing a higher profile shape through air will make your engine work harder.

If you're interested in short term gains, consider making a more compact shape behind your windshield; if that's too much of a bother, you might think about how your bike is configured, and make changes like removing saddlebags or other drag creating accessories.

Cruise it if You Can Use It

Constant speeds improve fuel economy, and relying on your internal speedometer is an easy way to go farther on a tank of gas. But if your bike has the luxury of cruise control, it will do a better job than any human at sipping fuel while cruising along the highway.

Set it and forget it, and watch your MPGs rise!

 Keep it on the Road

We should all be so lucky as to have the option of riding on dirt when we want to; riding offroad offers a refreshing take on the terrain around you, but it also requires significantly more fuel than riding on pavement.

If you've got the choice between a paved and a gravel or dirt road, pick the former and you'll use less fuel getting from A to B. Also remember that a motorcycle with knobby offroad tires won't get the same fuel economy as street biased rubber.

___________
Source: About (Wasef)

Brandon Miller attempts to set electric motorcycle speed record

A few days ago, Brandon Miller, a.k.a the Electric Cowboy, set out to Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah to attempt to set both world and national records for partially streamed and non-faired electric motorcycle under 150 kg. Yes it may seem a bit geeky, but it’s also exciting because it is very new motorcycle technology, and so it sounds like science fiction.

His attempt is going to be performed with two electric motorcycles: the Zero S Zf6, and his famous "Foxy Cleopatra,” Zero S ZF9 model that anyone can buy in any store. Foxy has had a few modifications done by Hollywood Electrics, such as the single bar end mirror and the tail chop; a change made for a more effective and faster speed, even though it is somewhat unnecessary, since it's already super light and fast. For the Zero ZF6, he will tweak the race setting and have custom made race upgrades and hardware modifications, since the original speed for the Zero S Zf6 goes up to 88mph. By making the modifications the bike can go up to 100mph.

For the first few runs, Brandon plans to attempt setting both records using the bike's default settings. If he fails during the first attempt, he will make some "modifications to the software and hardware settings on both bikes" to determine the power and speed they give out.

Some of the records he has achieved are: being first person to get their racing license on an electric motorcycle, and being the first rider with any no-gas experience. After his record setting attempts, whether he succeeds or not, he plans next year to set a FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) world speed record.

As of Sunday, via an update to his fund-raising website, Miller claims he has set a new speed record for electric motorcycles with a speed of 98.87mph. But that's not good enough for the Electric Cowboy, in his own words “I wanna break 100 so bad I can taste it! Or maybe that’s just the salt on my lips...”

__________________
Source: Gas2 ( 9/17)

Helpful Motorcycle Tips

Texas Rider has some motorcycle care tips for you to keep it  rolling down the road and enjoying your ride. Some of the most simplest things you can do to make your bike last longer, give you better performance and keep you on the road and off the shoulder. Some of the things that we've gathered over the years range from the Oh Duh!! to the Oh Cool!! We've learned a few things along the way and wanted to share them with you.

Okay, the first maintenance tip is real simple, Yeah an Oh Duh! It's "change the oil regularly" But seriously, what's regularly? For those that travel 10,000 to 15,000 miles a year you may already know the drill, but for those who own a garage kept bike and have 5,000 miles on it in 5 years, what's regular? For those who travel less, my suggestion would be to use thinner oils and every once in a while, put a teaspoon of oil in the cylinders as if you're storing the bike. The last thing you want is to go and crank up a bike with dry cylinders.

Now the flip side of that. Most serious touring enthusiasts seem to like using synthetic oils. Heck with the formulas now, you can go 15,000 miles between oil changes! Well GREAT!! I just have one thing for you to think about, the oil filter. Yeah I run synthetics but the way the bike is set up, the oil must be drained in order to change the filter. And since I'm not one to reuse the oil I remove (I highly recommend NOT doing that), I change my oil about every 5,000 miles since I don't like running too long on the filters.

Pre ride inspections are boring I admit. The "T Clock" inspection is used by most organizations and is a great way to check over a bike, but frankly when it comes to riding we all want to get on and go!! Yep, just ride and show off our nice shiny, clean bikes. As a matter of fact, most people clean and shine their bikes more then they maintain them. Yeah me too! Okay so that's not a real motorcycle tip.

But....Oh Duh!! What a concept!! Perform T Clock type inspections while you clean! When you are getting all the nooks and crannies free of dirt and debris, check things over. Keep your eyes out for leaks and loose hardware. Make sure everything is good and tight (Thanks to Henkel Technologies for LocTite) I think that Judy and I have found and fixed more issues while cleaning than at any other time. Fluid levels can be checked. Hmmm, see that ring of fresh fluid around the fork? It's almost nothing to change out a fork seal, but a pain when your bike is covered with oil from a blown fork seal and you are hours away from a repair shop on a holiday weekend. Yeah I've been there! Not fun.

Electrical problems can always be a pain in the you know what! From tracing the problem, to fixing it. First thing's first, CHECK THE FUSE BOX. I don't know how many times I have tried to solve a problem just to find out it was a fuse. Now, once you have the fuse changed, check it again to make sure you don't have an open short and just the act of putting in the fuse blows it. Also by locating a main fuse, you can tell what system is causing the problems. For example, the lighting system, accessories, etc.

Now you have the problem found, how do you fix it? Can you bypass it and isolate it from the system? If it's something that you can do without then isolate it. Now here is a great maintenance tip to help with that. Cut the wires to isolate the offending part and strip back the wires to reconnect. Slip some shrink tube onto one of the wires, then twist the wires together. Now just fold the twisted wire back and lay it flat. Slide the shrink wrap over the bare wires and heat slowly with a match or lighter to shrink it tight and seal it. Trust me this is next to a permanent fix. I have all my "extra" lights installed in this manner and it helps a ton when one of them burns out.

__________________
Source: Motorcycle Touring Made Easy

Types of Motorcycles

Motorcycles have, in recent years, become more focused and specialized in their function. Here are definitions of a few key types of bikes.

Adventure/Touring, Dual Sports

The offspring of rugged dirtbikes and long-distance tourers, these bikes boast lots of suspension travel and upright postures that are comfortable for lengthy rides.

Choppers

Epitomized by the Harley-Davidson Panhead in the film Captain America, choppers tend to have extremely raked forks, reclined seats, and lots of showy chrome.

Cruisers

Cruisers are like sedate choppers; their fork rake is less extreme, and they're designed for laid-back riding.

Dirt Bikes

Dirt bikes generally refer to motorcyles designed for offroad riding, and typically feature knobby tires, long suspension travel, and minimalistic frames and bodywork. Variants of dirt bike designs compete in Enduro, Motocross, and Trials events, among others.

Enduro Bikes

Designed for long distance offroad competitions, Enduro bikes are usually equipped with headlights and taillights for nighttime riding, and can be outfitted with timers and roll chart reading devices that aid riders with navigation and timekeeping.

Naked Bikes

Naked bikes recall British motorcycles of the sixties, and lack bodywork or a fairing that would normally hide their engines and inner-workings.

Power Scooters

Power scooters are like scooters on steroids, and they share a similar step-through (or near step-through) design. But they also boast large engines (sometimes up to 650cc) rivaling the powerplants found in some motorcycles. Power scooters usually offer commuter-friendly creature comforts and numerous storage compartments.

Scooters

Typified by Italian-made Vespas, scooters are like small motorcycles with bodywork that allows the rider to "step through" and sit without getting his or her clothes stained by oil. Scooter engine sizes can be as little as 50cc.

Sport Bikes

Designed purely for performance, sport bikes tend to require arms-forward posture, powerful engines, and tight handling.

Supermoto Bikes

Based on race machines that compete on a combination of road and dirt surfaces, Supermoto bikes combine offroad characteristics such as deep suspension travel with road tires and bodywork reminiscent of so-called "street fighter" bikes.

Touring Bikes

Created solely for long-distance comfort, touring bikes often feature backrests, large windscreens, and creature comforts such as radios and navigation systems.

Trials Bikes

These specialized competition bikes are tailor made for trials events, in which motorcycles are maneuvered around offroad or man-made obstacles, and riders are penalized if their feet touch the ground. Extremely lightweight, trials bikes lack seats and feature stiffer suspension than most dirtbikes.

____________
Source: About: Motorcycles (Wasef)

The Texas Rally Luau and Biker Bash

What a great way to start September with the Texas Luau and Biker Bash September 6-8. This rally will be located at Big Creek Park & Marina in Somerville, Texas. There will be food, drinks, music, and one of the most well known custom paint job artists, Tex Efx.

The doors will open September 6 at 9 a.m. Since it is going to be the first day, things will be running a bit slow with vendors setting up their tents, but there will be entertainment, and a few local bands playing such as Scars Heal In Time, an all girl band that covers just about anything, and Allyson N Chains, which covers the mezmerising sound of Alice in Chains.

On the second day September 7, doors will open at 9 am, by this time most things will be set up. Try some refreshments at the Tiki lounge and play the "Booty Hunt" which is basically a scavenger hunt were clues can be given in the bar area, just ask for an specific drink. Later on in the day there will be a tattoo contest held in the Tiki Lounge, and more music by Tres Hombres, Ju Ju Beans, Chris Brade, and Outlaw Dave.

The last day of the event, promises to be the best, with more food, drinks, bike games, and music by Signal Rising, Victim, and Skid Row, to name a few. The Bring Out Your Bad Bike Show, will be taken place in the main stage at 3 p.m. A special 9/11 tribute will be held on the last day of the rally.

Handling Special Situations

In the best of all worlds the temperature would always be 78 degrees, the wind would be at our backs, and no emergencies would arise. Since it is a slightly imperfect world we live in, we should be prepared for whatever happens.

Emergency Braking

Sometimes you have to stop as quickly as possible. Here are some tips on how to get you and your motorcycle halted pronto:

• Apply both brakes to their maximum, just short of locking them up. Practice in an open, good-surfaced place, such as a clean parking lot.
• Keep the motorcycle upright and traveling in a straight line; and look where you’re going, not where you’ve just been.
• You don’t want to lock the front brake. If the wheel does chirp, release the brake for a split second, then immediately reapply without locking it up.
• If your rear wheel locks up, do not release the brake. If your handlebars are straight, you will skid in a straight line, which is all right. You have a more important priority and that is to get stopped! Read on and we will talk more about “skids.”

Braking While Leaned Into a Curve

You should try to avoid this, but sometimes it might be necessary. You can brake (with both brakes) while leaned over, but you must do it gradually and with less force than if the bike is standing up straight. For maximum braking efficiency in an emergency (when traffic and roadway conditions permit), stand the bike up straight; brake hard.

Coping With a Skid

A skid - that’s when your heart leaps up to your throat because your wheels have lost traction!

Riding Across Poor Road Surfaces

Here are a few simple rules you should follow when you anticipate coping with sand, mud, water or any loose surface or obstruction in the road:

• Downshift and slow before you reach the problem area.
• If there is traffic in the area, make sure that the drivers are aware you are slowing.
• Try to cross the bad surface in a straight line, or at least do not change direction or speed abruptly.
• Stay ready to maintain the balance of the motorcycle.
• If you are moving along and have to go over an obstruction that is lying across the road, like a 2x4 piece of wood, rise up on the foot pegs and shift your weight toward the back of the saddle as your front wheel comes up to the obstacle. This will make it easier for the front wheel to bounce up and over. Then move your weight forward to help your rear wheel get over.
• Do not accelerate until your bike is completely over the obstacle.

Steel Bridge Gratings and Rain Grooves

Steel-mesh bridges can be extremely unnerving. Keep an even throttle and keep the bike straight. Don’t grip the handlebars too hard. If there is a vibration in the handlebars, do not fight it. This is a natural feedback from your tires going over these thousands of little squares. Some parts of the country have rain grooves in the highways. They’re not very popular among motorcyclists. This is when the road surface, usually concrete, has several dozen grooves running lengthwise down each lane. The purpose of the grooves is to prevent cars and trucks from losing traction when it rains. The reaction of the bike to these grooves often has to do with the tread pattern on the tires. Sometimes it feels as though the motorcycle is getting a flat tire, with a squishy back-and-forth sideways motion. Don’t worry, just keep going straight. Don’t fight the handlebars. There is nothing dangerous about these rain grooves – it just feels funny to ride on them.

Rain

Haul out the raingear you’ve stowed in a handy spot. Make sure your rain gloves and rain boots fit properly. Poorly fitted ones can lessen your ability to brake and shift.

Be most cautious when it first starts to rain.

That is when the water goes into all the dimples in the road, and the oil residue from passing vehicles floats to the top. That gets slippery! A wise motorcyclist will stop for a cup of coffee when it starts to rain; who knows, it could all be over in 15 minutes, and you won’t even have to put on the rain suit. After a while the oil will be washed off to the side of the road. However, traction on a wet surface may not be as good as on a dry road. Be careful.

Wind

Strong winds can create problems for a motorcyclist. A constant 25-mph wind from the side can make for less than- happy riding. Gusty wind is the worst. You might have to lean a bit into the wind to maintain your position. Keep the motorcycle on the side of the lane that the wind is coming from. This is in case a big blast moves you over a bit. Expect it and be ready to react.

Animals

The biggest problem is with domestic animals. Most seem to have an urge to chase motorcycles. Those that don’t chase often are known to blunder into the path of moving vehicles. Don’t let one distract you and cause a spill. Here are three rules:

• Slow down well before you reach the animal.
•  Do not – repeat – do not kick at the animal. 
• If the animal looks like he’s going to intercept you, speed up just as you are about to reach him. It will throw his timing off.

If a deer jumps out in front of you on a country road, but is far enough ahead not to be worried about – watch out for its mate. They tend to travel in pairs. Hitting a deer with a motorcycle is a tough way to put venison on the table.

_________________
Source: Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Wristwatch Motorcycles (art)

Talented Brazilian artist Jose Geraldo Reis Pfau creates beautiful motorcycle miniatures using only parts from old wristwatches.

Pfau’s passion for motorcycles began in the 1960′s. He owned various types of motorcycles, some of them modified and inspired by the movie “Easy Rider”. But the artist born and raised in Blumenau, Santa Catarina was also fascinated by the arts, and it was only natural that his artistic talent and passion for bikes combine in a unique project. At first, he developed several motorcycle images, but after reading about artists who created motorcycle miniatures out wood, pottery, wire and other materials, he decided to make similar artworks, out of a completely new medium – wristwatches.

The time pieces that inspired Jose Geraldo Reis Pfau’s creations were collected with a help of a friend who happened to own a wristwatch shop. Through an advertising campaign, clients were encouraged to give their old watches as a first installment on the purchase of a new one. This provided the artist with the necessary materials to experiment and create his unique wristwatch motorcycles.

Although Pfau only creates his art during the weekends, he has a collection of hundreds of motorcycles made exclusively from wristwatch components. They have been showcased at jewelry fairs and art exhibitions throughout Brazil and several other countries.

For more pictures of Pfau's art work visit:

http://www.odditycentral.com/pics/the-wristwatch-motorcycles-of-jose-geraldo-reis-pfau.html

_____________
Source: OddityCentral (Spooky, 3/7)

Steampunk-Inspired Cafe Racer Motorcycle

It’s retro, it’s steampunk, it’s a café racer with a twist, it’s a one-of-a-kind drool-worthy motorcycle. Presenting the Beezerker.

The Beezerker is the culmination of 11 months of design and fabrication by Chris Flechtner, owner of SpeedShop Design in Seattle.

The heart of this beast is a rebuilt 1965 BSA A65 motor, which is probably the only part on the bike which hasn’t been heavily modified or built from scratch.

The gas tank and tail section of the Beezerker were formed by hand from aluminum, the forks are fabricated from sheet metal, and the down tube doubles as the oil tank. The twist clutch is also Fletchner’s own design, which shows off his machining skills.

Because much of the bike is made from stainless steel and aluminum, it lends itself easily to not being painted, the better to show off the unique lines of this ultra-rad ride.

The Beezerker won 5th place in the freestyle class, and second place in the Metric World Championship class at the 2010 AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building , and just recently captured the People’s Choice award and first place in the Freestyle category at the 2011 Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show Seattle.

Batman Dark Knight Replica Leather & Kevlar Motorcycle Suit

UD Replicas has created a replica of the Dark Knight's suit which features Kevlar inserts and adjustable sections making it a true motorcycle suit. Make no mistake, this is not a costume.

While paying tribute to all the on-screen design elements, the suit is engineered for the serious motorcycle rider (unless you don the gold utility belt, in which case you are a ridiculous motorcycle rider), offering a level of protection and flare the likes of which the Dark Knight himself would approve.

TOTAL SUIT AS A SET: $1564.00

Sold as separates or the whole shebang, the form-molded leather with functional Kevlar details perfectly replicates the look of the on-screen armor (codpiece included) while being fully functional and everyday wearable riding gear. Limited to 350 suits (Thank God).

Jacket: $798.00:

Pants: $449.00:

Gloves: $98.00:

Boots: $219.00:

Available as a full suit combination or individual Jacket, Pant, Glove, Boot and Utility Pouch options.

THE DARK KNIGHT RISES™ BATMAN™ Includes:

•Strong edge seaming for all visible and hidden stitch work.

•Form molded hard and soft shell visible Kevlar details.

•Form Molded Leather detailing like never before.

•Jacket Sleeves feature Adjustable Leather Gauntlets.

•Breathable motorcycle grade Mesh Cordura base.

•Anti Skid Kevlar in glove palms.

•Removable CE Approved Body Armor in forearms/elbow, shoulder and back spine protector.

•Highly detailed, removable lightweight interior lining.

•Made from Grade A Cow Hide.

•Quality high-end accessories.

Sales Close: Aug 31st 2012 Delivery: 4th Quarter 2012 (Oct-Nov-Dec)

EDITION SIZE: 350 SETS

images, prices and info courtesy of UD Replicas

Buy it here 

[via]
________________
Source: If it's hip, It's here (Sweet, 7/24)