Being stylish is not about being conventional and it can be anything you like. Be it an expensive suit or a rugged leather jacket, you can end up looking great if you know what look you exactly want. Biker's look is one of the most popular and stylish looks that guys want to go for, and it never fails to create a style statement. However, to achieve the right look you need to pay attention on a lot small factors that are important. To achieve the biker's look, the first and the most important requirement is being a biker as otherwise you will end up looking made-up. There are a number of styles that bikers have and you can choose from the trends that you like to achieve your personalized, rugged look. Here are a few biking trends you can choose from, to get the look you are aiming for.
The most prominent and defining factor of a biker's outfit comprises of leather. Be it the jacket or the belt, leather is something that is associated with a biker on the first go. Make sure you invest in a good leather jacket and a belt, and it should stand out. Do not buy fake leather or similar looking cheap material as you will just end up ruining your look. This is because a true biker will always wear a pure leather jacket and will never buy something that is fake or substandard. Once you have a good jacket and belt in place, now is the time to concentrate on the rest of the outfit. As black is the colour that goes with biking, buy black shirts and grey denim that give you a rugged look. Also, invest in a good pair of leather boots. Again, do not buy boots of a cheap or fake material as they can be easily differentiated from the original ones.
Once your clothes have been taken care of, concentrate on the additional things that will add to your look. Jewellery has always been an important part of a biker's way of dressing and is available in a wide variety. You can go for the very popular and manly skull rings or the skull bracelets that give an edge to your look. Make sure you buy oxidized silver rings of a good quality which give you the air of a true biker. You can even go for customized pendants and add your personal touch to them by going for something you like and not following the conventional choices.
Once the jewellery and clothes are put together, your biker's look is more or less complete. But, for the final touch, go for a hairstyle that goes with your look. Spikes and Mohawk are the most popular options for people who love riding bikes. Also, invest in a pair of good biker gloves that complete your look. Apart from the right look, another thing you need to concentrate on is the attitude as the carefree and rugged way that a biker follows is what makes a person a true biker. Learn to ride the bike well and develop a carefree attitude which makes you a true biker. Also, join biker clubs and hang out with them to learn their ways. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect biker's look.
Junk silver jewelry is a very important part of a biker's look. Check out great biker pendants and rings at bad ass jewelry.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Friday, August 17, 2012
How to Pack for a Long Motorcycle Trip
Packing for a long motorcycle trip can be very daunting. Keep in mind that you will have to make laundry stops, and pick hotels or motels that offer laundry facilities when you need to. Basically you will need the following:
Rain gear
Leather Coat
We like to have shields that attach to our helmets for bad weather
Gloves
Shoes and or sandals
Toiletries
Sweater
1 or 2 pairs of jeans
The rest we pack as follows: We always put one tee shirt, one pair of underwear and one pair of socks in a zip lock bag Sit on it to squeeze out all air, and seal it. Put it in our travel bags. When these clothes are dirty you put them back in the bag, tying the socks in a knot so you can tell quickly if you have grabbed clean or dirty clothes. The zip lock bag also puts another layer of protection between your clothing and the rain. I also always line the travel bags with a garbage bag. I know that PVC bags are water proof, but like to have that extra protection. Also packing clothing of similar colors means that you only have to do one load of laundry when you stop. Carrying a few dryer sheet will also help keep your motorcycle travel bags smelling good and save money when you do laundry.
Another important issue when packing for a trip is to keep all heavy items like leather coats if you aren't wearing them in the saddlebags so that the majority of the weight is low, creating a lower center of balance. We also like to make sure there is always room to put our leather jackets in to saddlebags if it gets too hot. I would always recommend wearing them as added protection in case of an accident, but sometimes it is just too hot to comfortably wear them. We also usually carry a bathing suit and a pair of shorts, but these are not a necessity but are nice to have, especially if the hotel you stop at happens to have a pool.
Another thing I consider to be a necessity is when you stop at night pick a spot where you are able to walk to dinner. After washing the road grit off in your hotel the last thing I want to do is get back on the bike to go somewhere for dinner.
Hope this was informative.
Check us out at Motorcycle Leather Down for your biker needs.
Rain gear
Leather Coat
We like to have shields that attach to our helmets for bad weather
Gloves
Shoes and or sandals
Toiletries
Sweater
1 or 2 pairs of jeans
The rest we pack as follows: We always put one tee shirt, one pair of underwear and one pair of socks in a zip lock bag Sit on it to squeeze out all air, and seal it. Put it in our travel bags. When these clothes are dirty you put them back in the bag, tying the socks in a knot so you can tell quickly if you have grabbed clean or dirty clothes. The zip lock bag also puts another layer of protection between your clothing and the rain. I also always line the travel bags with a garbage bag. I know that PVC bags are water proof, but like to have that extra protection. Also packing clothing of similar colors means that you only have to do one load of laundry when you stop. Carrying a few dryer sheet will also help keep your motorcycle travel bags smelling good and save money when you do laundry.
Another important issue when packing for a trip is to keep all heavy items like leather coats if you aren't wearing them in the saddlebags so that the majority of the weight is low, creating a lower center of balance. We also like to make sure there is always room to put our leather jackets in to saddlebags if it gets too hot. I would always recommend wearing them as added protection in case of an accident, but sometimes it is just too hot to comfortably wear them. We also usually carry a bathing suit and a pair of shorts, but these are not a necessity but are nice to have, especially if the hotel you stop at happens to have a pool.
Another thing I consider to be a necessity is when you stop at night pick a spot where you are able to walk to dinner. After washing the road grit off in your hotel the last thing I want to do is get back on the bike to go somewhere for dinner.
Hope this was informative.
Check us out at Motorcycle Leather Down for your biker needs.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Motorcycle Braking Tips for Track Days
Braking should be a pretty simple affair, but you'd be surprised to know that out of all the riding techniques we use on track it is during braking that the greatest number of panic buttons are pushed if it's not done correctly.
In this guide I have outlined what we should work towards to improve our braking technique, as well as some of the results of getting it wrong; this I hope will leave you feeling confident on the brakes and have you pushing back your markers with ease.
The primary goal of braking
If pressed for an answer as to what we are trying to achieve with braking, I would expect most people to say we are simply trying to slow the bike down ready for the corner; but while this is true, it isn't our primary goal. What we are really trying to do is accurately set our speed for the corner ready for our turn-in. This will then give us a consistent base to work on everything from the turn point, out to the exit.
The structure of motorcycle braking
As you may know, we don't apply constant pressure to the lever when braking, the pressure will vary from the time you first apply the brake to the time you release the lever. There are a number of ways in which you can structure your braking, such as light pressure at first then hard at the end; hard first and then light; light then hard then light; as well as a whole host of other arrangements. Which one is best though?
The most effective way to set our speed for a turn is to get the bulk of the braking done before you arrive at your turn point. If you leave all your hard braking right up until it's time to turn the bike it will often have you feeling like you're going in too fast, causing you to over brake and ultimately go in too slow. There are also some other potential ways in which this late hard braking can be damaging:
You try to carry too much brake into the corner.
You're unable to quickly and accurately turn the bike, meaning a shallow entry that will spoil your exit.
You overshoot your turn point which then puts you off line
Your attention becomes very much fixed on your braking, rather than where you're going and what you're doing.
All of these things have the potential to push your panic buttons and/or have you making mistakes, mistakes that could see you in the gravel.
Instead what would be more ideal is to start off by braking hard at first then trailing the brake pressure off as you approach your turn point. This will not only have you feeling more relaxed at the turn point, but you will no doubt be going faster too. Another plus is that your brain will feel less rushed, meaning more concentration on what's to come after you have finished braking.
The application of the brake
When talking about the initial application of the brake there's only really one main point to raise and that is don't snap the brakes on. By snapping the brakes on you are risking the suspension bottoming out which will increase the chances of the front wheel locking up. Brake application should in fact be quick (between a quarter and half a second between initial application and full power), but it should not be instant.
Imagine a line graph showing your braking efforts between your braking point and turn point. You would see a steep but gradual curve from initial application to full brakes; the line would then stay at the top of the graph while you scrub your speed off, then as you get closer to your turn point you would see the line come back down the graph slowly as you taper off the brakes.
The only other point to mention about brake application is what to do in the instance of a wheel lock up. If this happens then ease the pressure off the brake lever to allow the front wheel to start turning and stabilise itself and the bike.
A word on the rear brake
Whether or not you use the rear brake will mainly be down to personal preference, but in my opinion until you have mastered the use of the front brake then the risk vs reward of using the rear brake means it's something you don't have to focus on.
A spinning rear wheel provides the stability for everything from the headstock back (due to the gyroscopic effect is creates) and when you are braking so hard to the point the rear wheel is skimming the floor, any application of the rear brake is going to lock it up and lose you that stability. It is then down to the front wheel alone to keep the bike upright which isn't ideal. On that note, I will leave the decision up to you regarding the rear brake.
Conclusion
As you can see from these motorcycle braking tips, the way we should be braking is fairly simple, but even the fanciest braking system in the world won't help you if you don't get it right. The main lesson to take away is get all your hard braking done early to eradicate your internal panic buttons being pushed, this will mean a more relaxed head at the turn point and fewer mistakes being made as a result. You'll probably be going faster too!
Secondary points are get the brakes on quickly, but don't snap it on as this will only translate into an unsettled bike.
It'll take time and practice, but with enough of it your braking will come along nicely and you'll be pushing your braking markers further back when you see all the time you've given yourself at the turn point.
Now go heat those discs!
Want more riding tips?
Get more Motorcycle Riding Tips over at Bike Track Days Hub. There I've covered some of the various aspects of riding on track that you can learn, which in time will help bring your riding on in terms of both speed and safety.
Visit Bike Track Days Hub for more info.
In this guide I have outlined what we should work towards to improve our braking technique, as well as some of the results of getting it wrong; this I hope will leave you feeling confident on the brakes and have you pushing back your markers with ease.
The primary goal of braking
If pressed for an answer as to what we are trying to achieve with braking, I would expect most people to say we are simply trying to slow the bike down ready for the corner; but while this is true, it isn't our primary goal. What we are really trying to do is accurately set our speed for the corner ready for our turn-in. This will then give us a consistent base to work on everything from the turn point, out to the exit.
The structure of motorcycle braking
As you may know, we don't apply constant pressure to the lever when braking, the pressure will vary from the time you first apply the brake to the time you release the lever. There are a number of ways in which you can structure your braking, such as light pressure at first then hard at the end; hard first and then light; light then hard then light; as well as a whole host of other arrangements. Which one is best though?
The most effective way to set our speed for a turn is to get the bulk of the braking done before you arrive at your turn point. If you leave all your hard braking right up until it's time to turn the bike it will often have you feeling like you're going in too fast, causing you to over brake and ultimately go in too slow. There are also some other potential ways in which this late hard braking can be damaging:
You try to carry too much brake into the corner.
You're unable to quickly and accurately turn the bike, meaning a shallow entry that will spoil your exit.
You overshoot your turn point which then puts you off line
Your attention becomes very much fixed on your braking, rather than where you're going and what you're doing.
All of these things have the potential to push your panic buttons and/or have you making mistakes, mistakes that could see you in the gravel.
Instead what would be more ideal is to start off by braking hard at first then trailing the brake pressure off as you approach your turn point. This will not only have you feeling more relaxed at the turn point, but you will no doubt be going faster too. Another plus is that your brain will feel less rushed, meaning more concentration on what's to come after you have finished braking.
The application of the brake
When talking about the initial application of the brake there's only really one main point to raise and that is don't snap the brakes on. By snapping the brakes on you are risking the suspension bottoming out which will increase the chances of the front wheel locking up. Brake application should in fact be quick (between a quarter and half a second between initial application and full power), but it should not be instant.
Imagine a line graph showing your braking efforts between your braking point and turn point. You would see a steep but gradual curve from initial application to full brakes; the line would then stay at the top of the graph while you scrub your speed off, then as you get closer to your turn point you would see the line come back down the graph slowly as you taper off the brakes.
The only other point to mention about brake application is what to do in the instance of a wheel lock up. If this happens then ease the pressure off the brake lever to allow the front wheel to start turning and stabilise itself and the bike.
A word on the rear brake
Whether or not you use the rear brake will mainly be down to personal preference, but in my opinion until you have mastered the use of the front brake then the risk vs reward of using the rear brake means it's something you don't have to focus on.
A spinning rear wheel provides the stability for everything from the headstock back (due to the gyroscopic effect is creates) and when you are braking so hard to the point the rear wheel is skimming the floor, any application of the rear brake is going to lock it up and lose you that stability. It is then down to the front wheel alone to keep the bike upright which isn't ideal. On that note, I will leave the decision up to you regarding the rear brake.
Conclusion
As you can see from these motorcycle braking tips, the way we should be braking is fairly simple, but even the fanciest braking system in the world won't help you if you don't get it right. The main lesson to take away is get all your hard braking done early to eradicate your internal panic buttons being pushed, this will mean a more relaxed head at the turn point and fewer mistakes being made as a result. You'll probably be going faster too!
Secondary points are get the brakes on quickly, but don't snap it on as this will only translate into an unsettled bike.
It'll take time and practice, but with enough of it your braking will come along nicely and you'll be pushing your braking markers further back when you see all the time you've given yourself at the turn point.
Now go heat those discs!
Want more riding tips?
Get more Motorcycle Riding Tips over at Bike Track Days Hub. There I've covered some of the various aspects of riding on track that you can learn, which in time will help bring your riding on in terms of both speed and safety.
Visit Bike Track Days Hub for more info.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Interphone F5 Handle Bar Remote Control - One Of A Kind
Bikers love to travel and carry their stuff along. They are passionate about having the best accessories that offer great utility. Saddlebag support systems serve as the right choice for bikers who wish to keep their saddlebags in the best shape even after years of use. The look offered to heavy bikes by a leather saddlebag is simply fabulous and much better in contrast to the plastic and fiberglass counterparts. Therefore, it is very important to care for the saddlebags and replace them whenever required to improve the look of the bike. Saddlebags are made of leather and are perfect to be used in heavy bikes and cruisers.
Saddlebags shrink or lose their shape over a period of time due to which they need to be replaced. Instead of replacing them, you can use the saddlebag support systems and install the accessories on your own. When you opt for the support system, you do not have to worry about purchasing a new bag whenever the saddlebag loses its shape. You will be pleased to know that many sellers are nowadays offering the support systems to their clients at an affordable price. A warranty is offered too so that you do not have to worry about the maintenance of the saddlebag. The support system consists of the best quality adhesives, stiffeners, lid inserts and utility pouches. The use of stiffeners greatly reduces the sagging effect ultimately increasing the life of saddlebags. Likewise, the use of saddlebag lid inserts offer the necessary strength and rigidness to the bags.
The saddlebag support systems have adhesives for installing the lid inserts. This is very popular among people who are concerned about their saddlebags while travelling. Before installing the motorcycle saddlebag accessories, do not fail to take the exact dimensions where you will install it. The size of the saddlebag will depend entirely on the measurements taken. The best technology is used for the manufacture of the saddlebag support system so that the saddlebag does not lose its shape even after a bumpy bike ride. While choosing the accessories for installation, make sure that it does not have a negative impact on the aesthetic appeal of your bike. In case you are looking for the best accessories for your bike, you can find them easily at various online stores. You can get a complete list of accessories and their prices by checking out these stores. To know more about the products, you can directly mail or call up their customer care executives.
If you have a Harley Davidson, then having the best leather saddlebag is a must for you. To increase the life of your saddlebag, you will also require the saddlebag support systems. The systems maintain the beauty and style that these bags offer. You can prevent them from getting a saggy look and restore them with the use of stiffeners. The support system is available at a truly affordable price and you can buy it right away. It is possible to enhance your riding experience with the use of these systems.
Danielle Wally is the author of this article on Saddlebag Support Systems. Find more information, about Motorcycle Saddlebag Accessories here
Saddlebags shrink or lose their shape over a period of time due to which they need to be replaced. Instead of replacing them, you can use the saddlebag support systems and install the accessories on your own. When you opt for the support system, you do not have to worry about purchasing a new bag whenever the saddlebag loses its shape. You will be pleased to know that many sellers are nowadays offering the support systems to their clients at an affordable price. A warranty is offered too so that you do not have to worry about the maintenance of the saddlebag. The support system consists of the best quality adhesives, stiffeners, lid inserts and utility pouches. The use of stiffeners greatly reduces the sagging effect ultimately increasing the life of saddlebags. Likewise, the use of saddlebag lid inserts offer the necessary strength and rigidness to the bags.
The saddlebag support systems have adhesives for installing the lid inserts. This is very popular among people who are concerned about their saddlebags while travelling. Before installing the motorcycle saddlebag accessories, do not fail to take the exact dimensions where you will install it. The size of the saddlebag will depend entirely on the measurements taken. The best technology is used for the manufacture of the saddlebag support system so that the saddlebag does not lose its shape even after a bumpy bike ride. While choosing the accessories for installation, make sure that it does not have a negative impact on the aesthetic appeal of your bike. In case you are looking for the best accessories for your bike, you can find them easily at various online stores. You can get a complete list of accessories and their prices by checking out these stores. To know more about the products, you can directly mail or call up their customer care executives.
If you have a Harley Davidson, then having the best leather saddlebag is a must for you. To increase the life of your saddlebag, you will also require the saddlebag support systems. The systems maintain the beauty and style that these bags offer. You can prevent them from getting a saggy look and restore them with the use of stiffeners. The support system is available at a truly affordable price and you can buy it right away. It is possible to enhance your riding experience with the use of these systems.
Danielle Wally is the author of this article on Saddlebag Support Systems. Find more information, about Motorcycle Saddlebag Accessories here
Economics of Scooters
Are you considering buying a scooter moped? There are pros and cons to scooters. Each of these will have a different importance to each of us:
• Open air riding. Hopping on a bicycle will give you the open air ride, but to be powered and ride at twice the speed give a good feeling of freedom and excitement (depending upon the speed!)
• Weather. Sometimes the weather doesn't agree with out riding schedule. If you rode your scooter to work in great weather, but it's rainy or stormy at quitting time, you may want to put in a little overtime to wait out the weather, if possible.
• Cheap Scooters. Whether you purchase a scooter from a storefront dealer, or pay half the price for one through an internet store, you will still be saving money over buying an auto. The fuel economy is another cost savings, obviously, with 50cc scooters getting about 100mpg, 150cc getting about 80mpg and 250cc getting about 50mpg. This varies greatly, depending on your riding style, just like driving a car.
• Maintenance complications. If you purchase your scooter from a storefront, you should have no problem getting them to service it, though I have a friend that would argue against that point. If you purchased your scooter from an online store, you will get the shop to determine the problem and needed parts; then get the parts from your online dealer, and provide to the shop for repair. Also, being a small engine, you may be able to take care of such simple things as changing the oil or preparing it for a snooze during the winter.
• Safety. You will have to be more responsible on a scooter than driving a car. You must be alert to what other drivers are doing and avoid incidents. Not many car drivers wear a helmet
• Ecology. Scooters can be much friendlier to the environment, if well maintained. Using less gas is the first thought, but weighing less than cars also reduces the maintenance on roads.
• Parking. It is much easier to park a scooter. Sometimes we see them parked on sidewalks, alongside bicycles. Just make sure you lock your scooter.
• Style and popularity. The variety of styles of scooters and the ability to modify to the colors you like brings a lot of fun to scooting. You can be as unique as you wish. Choose between the classic European style, or the Racer style, among many. Scooters are also gaining in popularity recently. People find that scooting to the neighborhood store is more fun than starting up the car.
So, there are many things to consider when looking for a scooter. Consider practicing on one, or renting a moped, to determine the size that suits you.
You can find many scooters on the Twowheelsrule website. We provide hundreds of photos, specifications and videos. You should be comfortable with the product offering before working with the distributor. We provide many scooters for sale with free shipping from the distributor, and the distributor has been a reputable dealer for many years. Safe riding!
• Open air riding. Hopping on a bicycle will give you the open air ride, but to be powered and ride at twice the speed give a good feeling of freedom and excitement (depending upon the speed!)
• Weather. Sometimes the weather doesn't agree with out riding schedule. If you rode your scooter to work in great weather, but it's rainy or stormy at quitting time, you may want to put in a little overtime to wait out the weather, if possible.
• Cheap Scooters. Whether you purchase a scooter from a storefront dealer, or pay half the price for one through an internet store, you will still be saving money over buying an auto. The fuel economy is another cost savings, obviously, with 50cc scooters getting about 100mpg, 150cc getting about 80mpg and 250cc getting about 50mpg. This varies greatly, depending on your riding style, just like driving a car.
• Maintenance complications. If you purchase your scooter from a storefront, you should have no problem getting them to service it, though I have a friend that would argue against that point. If you purchased your scooter from an online store, you will get the shop to determine the problem and needed parts; then get the parts from your online dealer, and provide to the shop for repair. Also, being a small engine, you may be able to take care of such simple things as changing the oil or preparing it for a snooze during the winter.
• Safety. You will have to be more responsible on a scooter than driving a car. You must be alert to what other drivers are doing and avoid incidents. Not many car drivers wear a helmet
• Ecology. Scooters can be much friendlier to the environment, if well maintained. Using less gas is the first thought, but weighing less than cars also reduces the maintenance on roads.
• Parking. It is much easier to park a scooter. Sometimes we see them parked on sidewalks, alongside bicycles. Just make sure you lock your scooter.
• Style and popularity. The variety of styles of scooters and the ability to modify to the colors you like brings a lot of fun to scooting. You can be as unique as you wish. Choose between the classic European style, or the Racer style, among many. Scooters are also gaining in popularity recently. People find that scooting to the neighborhood store is more fun than starting up the car.
So, there are many things to consider when looking for a scooter. Consider practicing on one, or renting a moped, to determine the size that suits you.
You can find many scooters on the Twowheelsrule website. We provide hundreds of photos, specifications and videos. You should be comfortable with the product offering before working with the distributor. We provide many scooters for sale with free shipping from the distributor, and the distributor has been a reputable dealer for many years. Safe riding!
Friday, July 20, 2012
What You Need To Know Before Buying a Dirt Bike
Getting a perfect dirt bike is like searching for a good suit. You need to make sure that it fits you just right. The right dirt bike is made just for your kind of riding terrain and what speed you are comfortable with. Riding this bike should feel... well, right. Finding the perfect bike is a perfect balance of knowing what one's skill level is, how often one intends to ride, where one rides and one's physical characteristics. Therefore, choosing one that is suitable for your biking needs depends on a number of factors.
What are dirt bikes?
Dirt road bikes are basically just like motorcycles, only that they have been solidly designed for riding across uneven terrain and rough tracks. Their suspensions and rugged tires are manufactured for the kind of hammering and battering that these motors are expected to endure. Their tires are made tougher than ordinary motorcycles in order to give maximum grip on the road surface, whether mud, tarmac or sand. These bikes are usually light in weight and can clear off the ground to considerable heights.
The following are the factors you need to consider before you buy your ride.
1. Level of experience
Your riding experience will determine what kind to buy. If you are a newbie rider with little experience, starting with one with low power is best. Power is measured in cubic centimeters (cc), so the lower the cc the better. The obvious advantage of less powered bikes is the lighter weight. Bikes with more power are heavier which makes them harder to handle.
2. Bike Size
To ride successfully, you need a bike that is the right size for your frame and experience. One's age also determines the size of bike you ride. Younger riders will need very small dirt bikes as they learn to help them gain confidence in their skills and stay safe. The right bike size for you can usually be established by checking whether you can keep your feet flat on the ground while seated on it without having to stand up.
3. Use
Knowing what use you will put your auto to; will help you decide what type of bike you want to buy. For racing purposes, gather as much information as you can from other riders, professional racers and attend racing events to find out why a particular brand is preferred over another. If you intend to use your motor for fun, figure out what kind of terrain you will use the ride on and work with that.
4. Price
There are many dirt bike manufacturers out there so do your homework in finding out who offers the best value for money. Shop around for great deals and don't ignore online dealers too. Make sure you know what you want before making your purchase to save yourself unnecessary trouble later on.
Observing these 4 important factors will help you make a wise selection to get you started on the unlimited fun you are sure to have riding your motor.
Jennifer G from 4wheelonline.com is a professional writer and avid auto enthusiast specializing in auto accessories and performance products. Learn more about this from Maxxis motorcycle tires.
What are dirt bikes?
Dirt road bikes are basically just like motorcycles, only that they have been solidly designed for riding across uneven terrain and rough tracks. Their suspensions and rugged tires are manufactured for the kind of hammering and battering that these motors are expected to endure. Their tires are made tougher than ordinary motorcycles in order to give maximum grip on the road surface, whether mud, tarmac or sand. These bikes are usually light in weight and can clear off the ground to considerable heights.
The following are the factors you need to consider before you buy your ride.
1. Level of experience
Your riding experience will determine what kind to buy. If you are a newbie rider with little experience, starting with one with low power is best. Power is measured in cubic centimeters (cc), so the lower the cc the better. The obvious advantage of less powered bikes is the lighter weight. Bikes with more power are heavier which makes them harder to handle.
2. Bike Size
To ride successfully, you need a bike that is the right size for your frame and experience. One's age also determines the size of bike you ride. Younger riders will need very small dirt bikes as they learn to help them gain confidence in their skills and stay safe. The right bike size for you can usually be established by checking whether you can keep your feet flat on the ground while seated on it without having to stand up.
3. Use
Knowing what use you will put your auto to; will help you decide what type of bike you want to buy. For racing purposes, gather as much information as you can from other riders, professional racers and attend racing events to find out why a particular brand is preferred over another. If you intend to use your motor for fun, figure out what kind of terrain you will use the ride on and work with that.
4. Price
There are many dirt bike manufacturers out there so do your homework in finding out who offers the best value for money. Shop around for great deals and don't ignore online dealers too. Make sure you know what you want before making your purchase to save yourself unnecessary trouble later on.
Observing these 4 important factors will help you make a wise selection to get you started on the unlimited fun you are sure to have riding your motor.
Jennifer G from 4wheelonline.com is a professional writer and avid auto enthusiast specializing in auto accessories and performance products. Learn more about this from Maxxis motorcycle tires.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Prepare Your Motorcycle for Winter
Winter motorcycle preparation is important to help keep your motorbike running in tip top condition through the winter months. Don't get caught short, here is a list of thing to check and do before winter hits.
Coolant
Fill the system with anti-freeze to protect your bike. If water alone is used, this can cause extensive and expensive damage as it freezes and expands. If the liquid in the system is clear, it most likely doesn't contain any anti- freeze at all, if you're not sure about its contents, flush the system and refill.
Tyres
As we all know slippery roads require more grip and good tyres are essential for winter riding. Purchasing tyres that designed specifically for winter weather is always a good idea, to prevent your bike from slipping and giving the best road performance. Checking tyre pressure is essential as under inflated tyres can affect your bikes handling significantly.
Lights
With shorter days, if you're commuting to and from work these journeys will most likely be carried out with minimal light. Regularly check the lights on your bike and clean the lenses on a regular basis.
Accessories
While making sure your bike is in perfect condition for winter riding is important, you also need to make sure you are as well. As the temperature drops, make you sure are wrapped up warm! Invest in protective weatherproof riding gear and wind proof yourself from head to toe. Being comfortable on your ride will is especially important in the cold. Make sure you wear something high visibility or reflective so that you can be seen when visibility is low.
Storage
If you are planning on sorting your bike away during the winter, keeping your bike protected from the cold weather while it is out of action is just as important to avoid forking out for costly repairs months later. Your motorbike needs to be protected from corrosion while it is not in use. Change the oil and the oil filter, as used oil contains corrosive substances. Flush and fill hydraulic lines, if this hasn't been done in the precious 10,000 miles. External components also need protection from corrosion, make sure your bike has been washed, dried, wax and grease any moving parts. Finally, make sure you fill your bike with fresh fuel, mixed with a stabiliser to avoid clogging the system.
Lock your motorbike away securely in a garage or storage unit. This will act as a barrier to the cold weather, protecting your bike and its components. If you don't have a storage unit, it is worthwhile investing in one for the added protection that they provide. A range of secure motorcycle storage is available from Asgard, offering the best protection from winter weather and theft, leaving your bike dry, safe and ready to ride when the weather gets better.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)