riders on the storm

2008-05-01T03:48:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Suzuki GSX-R1000 is here and it's ready to ride! The GSX-R1000, also known as the Gixxer, is a legend in the Suzuki lineup. Year after year the Gixxer ranks near the top with the best performing motorcycles in its class.

Boasting a 999CC, four-stroke, four-cylinder engine, the GSX-R1000 is ready for the street or track right out of the box! The engine is liquid cooled with dual overhead cams and 16 valves, helping to increase the power of this beast. Suzuki features their Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve system(SDTV) on this model to aid in the fuel-injection, making their fuel system compact and efficient.

The 2008 Gixxer sounds great in part from the Suzuki Advanced Exhaust System(SAES), featuring aluminum/titanium mufflers located on both sides of the bike, with pipes of equal length that run under the engine. With Suzuki you would expect a cutting-edge chassis, and they deliver in spades! The five-casting, twin-spar frame, is lightweight and durable, offering flawless performance! Suzuki also boasts a rigid aluminum-alloy swingarm that pivots for better traction and performance. The front suspension is race-ready with an inverted telescopic design, featuring coil springs, and is fully adjustable. The rear suspension is a link-type, gas/oil set-up. The 2008 model is available in Blue/White, Black/Gold, and White/Silver.

The Suzuki Hayabusa is the flagship motorcycle of this company, but the GSX-R1000 is an ample and nasty little brother to it. In typical Suzuki fashion, the GSX-R1000's acceleration is swift and the handling is track-ready. If you're looking for a motorcycle with speed and performance, this model might be perfect for you!

2007-12-18T14:58:00.000-08:00

There is a television show called, American Choppers, on the Discovery Channel that’s helping to revive the motorcycle industry. It’s a reality television show that focuses on the custom bike building shop owned by Paul Teutul Sr. and his sons. Since 1999 the shop has been building bikes for people in New York and making a pretty penny at it too. It seems that as the show grows in popularity more and more people are willing to pay a lot of money for one of the Teutul’s custom creations.

The bikes that they remake are more like pieces of art with fins, chrome and flames painted along the sides. Those possibly looking for a new bike should know that their bike shop is called, Orange County Choppers, even though they are based in New York, they are also sometimes called the OCC. A funny play off of the name of the dramatic television series about young teens in California.

Since they’ve gone on television with their bike shop business the Teutul’s have made a bike for the United States Air force, lovingly called ‘The Raptor’ for $150,000. They have also created a custom made bike for NASA. The show has only been on for a few years but its done wonders for the Teutul’s bike shop and brought in lots of business. They have their name on all kinds of promotional materials and party products. You’ll find that there are lots of party supplies available with the American Choppers theme for your next party event.

If you have young kids who like watching them rebuild old bikes into new ones the American Chopper theme is perfect for you to use at their party. You’ll be able to create an entire decorated party with plates, napkins, and tablecloths. There are even related party theme supplies to supplement the decoration if you find that you need something for the décor that doesn’t have the American Chopper theme.

2007-12-03T14:59:00.000-08:00

There has been a lot of talk as to whether or not a wind screen is necessary for a motorcycle. Some riders are used to driving without a windshield and therefore prefer to not to use it. Some riders on the other hand also find the use of wind screens a hindrance.

Motorcycle Wind Screens or Wind Shields are either made of clear glass or plastic. Some windscreens now a day even come in tinted glass form. The main function of the windscreen - as its name suggest - is to protect the rider from the oncoming wind during driving. This also protects him from airborne hazards. Some windscreens are mounted separately or are an integrated part of the motorcycle fairing. The present day trend for windshields involve bigger and bigger pieces. They offer more protection to the rider, but may sometimes cause the driver harm if he is not careful.

Cons - there has been a lot of negative hype about the use of a Windscreen in Motorcycles. Foremost of all them are safety issues. Some riders complain that windscreens decrease visibility when traveling at night; they tend to reflect the street lights and the lights on your dashboard. Windscreens may even aggravate injury during accidents because they tend to force the head down. Another issue is the injury that a windshield may cause to the riders eyes, because most windshields end at the level of the rider's eyes.

Pros - Wind Screens aren't really as evil as they are portrayed to be. They can be very helpful during long travels as they can protect the rider against airborne problems like: Bugs, dust, wind and Rain. They can also be very helpful in blocking out the sun's glare.

The best thing to do then with the issue of wind screens is to keep them an option. Buy one size that will be able to protect you and at the same time cause you no harm. Wind Screens can be bought in local parts supply stores or their online counterparts. They are also available on eBay.

Before making any purchases or bids, take your time to look at the catalogues found in various manufacturers sites to be sure that you are not paying more than what that Wind Screens in really worth. Another thing is to be sure to purchase a windscreen that fits your motorcycle perfectly, because if you don't and you just go ahead and buy the first thing that catches your eye, you may end up with a useless part.

2007-11-24T16:42:00.000-08:00

Sure you want to ride a motorcycle, but take a couple of minutes off before you take the plunge. Go through the following steps before you ready yourself for your first ride:

1. Motorcycling involves more risk than driving a car, and new riders are more prone to risks than experienced riders. Make sure you have the correct safety gear in place before you even think of riding the motorcycle. It protects you from big injuries so make sure you invest in the right helmet, gloves and riding suit. The cost of these will add up so include them in your biking budget. Keep in mind that the gear you choose has to be functional, not merely stylish.

2. You may have learnt motorcycling in your street but it is best to seek training and guidance from professional trainers. This step will make you a competent rider and provide you with skills and pointers that will help you every minute on the road. You learn details about how a bike works, how to balance a bike without the engine running, how the brakes work, how your riding posture is improved upon and how you get to work on numerous things that your friend could not have taught you. For example, you know that most of your stopping power is in your front wheel but your right foot does not co-ordinate. A professional might be able to fix this way better than your friend can. They can turn your riding style to virtually instinctive and this may go a long way in the future.

3. Choose your bike carefully. Whether you are buying a bike or renting it, ready yourself for it by going through a checklist to ascertain that the bike is really meant for you. People come in different shapes and sizes and with different capabilities, and so do bikes. Make sure you weigh all options before choosing a motorcycle that is most suited to you. Your friends chopper or your cousins dirt bike may have stolen your sleep away but all options weighed, you may be more suited to a cruiser which has a less extreme fork rake and may add to your laid back riding style. The dirt bikers long suspension travel or the chopper’s raked forks and reclined seats may be completely unsuited to you.

4. Before you venture out with your bike make sure you test the bike to see if everything is ok with it--which is more involved than just checking that your saddlebag brackets are still attached! Inspect your tire pressure and do not risk riding on tires that are running low on pressure or need replacement. Make sure your clutch and brake cables are intact and in working conditions. Check to ensure your headlights for low and high beams, indicators and taillights are working fine. Is there sufficient engine oil, coolant and brake fluid? Inspect that the chain, fasteners, frame and suspension are all secure. The center and side stands should not be bent and the springs should hold the assembly away from the road when stowed.

5. Do not go too fast. It is best to remember that you are new to the world of motorcyclists and take every step carefully. Start slow, do not give in to temptation to rev the bike, and remember all the lessons taught to you by the pros while you ride.

6. Learn traffic rules. Make sure you know the motorcycling traffic rules for the state where you will be riding your motorcycle. This will minimize the chances of getting yourself as well as others into an accident or traffic issues.

7. Try to ride with other experienced riders. It will add to the sense of thrill as motorcycling is usually associated with riding in a group as a social activity, but on a personal level it will also hone your own skills to ride beside the people who have already spent a few years riding their machines.

8. Remember that if you take it seriously you need to ride it legally. So ensure that you get your motorcycle-riding license after the test and before you venture out with your motorcycle.

Once you have readied yourself for your first bike ride with these tips go out and have safe fun ride ahead.

OIL !!

2007-11-10T02:19:00.000-08:00

A motorcycle engine is more compact and higher revving (higher revolutions per minute) than an automobile engine allowing for faster acceleration, better responsiveness, and more efficient fuel economy. With so many parts moving rapidly in the tight confines of a motorcycle engine casing, lubrication is of utmost importance. The primary function of oil in a motorcycle engine is as a lubricator. It provides the fluidity within which all the various metal parts can perform their individual functions in close proximity. If oil were not present, metal on metal grinding would be inevitable, resulting in irreversible damage to a motorcycle engine. Oil allows the motorcycle engine to shift smoothly through all gears, upward and downward, allowing for smooth acceleration and deceleration, making every ride safer and more enjoyable.

While lubrication is the most important function of oil within the motorcycle engine, it is far from its only function. When an engine runs at high rpms, quite a large amount of heat can be generated. This heat can be harmful to the life of a motorcycle engine and must be dealt with. Oil helps dissipate this heat, and is especially essential in air-cooled engines where no coolant or water is present to aid in the cooling process. Overheating of a motorcycle engine can result in at best, a pit stop with an hour of cool down, at worst, an engine that will never run again without a skilled mechanic's intervention.

Because the rider is not separated from his or her engine by several inches of metal (as in a car), a motorcyclist is provided the opportunity of truly hearing the engine operate in every twist and turn. When the correct amount of the proper engine oil is present in the engine, this noise is reduced (still audible), and the motorcyclist can concentrate on the sounds of the world that envelop him or her, indulging in the inherent opportunity afforded by motorcycling: the freedom of being in this world instead of viewing it through the picture window that is an automobile's windshield.

Oil produced by the world's leading manufacturers like Triple Diamond Energy Corp plays a most important part in helping the motorcycle engine at all stages of its life by preventing rust and corrosion forming within. Oil also helps pistons continue pumping, safely sealed so that dirt or debris cannot enter in, disrupting movement. Oil and its necessary counterpart, the oil filter, help to keep all foreign substances out of the motorcycle engine, increasing engine life, and performance. Oil has an invaluable place within the motorcycle engine, and must always be monitored, added, and replaced as part of an owner's motorcycle maintenance regime.

2007-10-16T11:34:00.001-07:00

When trying to convince a spouse, friend or relative that you want to ride a motorcycle, beware that the first thing that is liable to come out of their mouth will be something related to motorcycle crashes and how bad they are. This is the largest hurdle that most riders face when trying to convince people that riding is good. Of course we know its good, in fact its GREAT, but getting the rest of the world to figure that one out is kind of tricky. The stats are pretty simple, and without reciting any numbers you can logically think this one through.

Lets just say that there are x amount of crashes in this state of the Union this year. A portion of those accidents are going to be because of operator error and then some because of a second party and fewer still are because of bike malfunction or road conditions. There are many variables to all of these types of crashes, but there are a few variables that you can easily control. Of the crashes that were the driver’s fault, believe me when I say alcohol was involved in a good chunk of them. If you don’t drink and drive, that won’t be a problem. If you don’t drink period then there is one less thing to worry about. If its not alcohol related, its experience or safety related. These problems are also fixable, but just not after-the-fact.

Multi-vehicle accidents involving motorcycles are a little trickier. You are not usually in control of the factors when it comes to these accidents. A sizable number of them have alcohol tied to the other vehicle, whether it is a drunk swerving and hitting a driver, or causing another accident that was unavoidable by the motorcyclist. There are relatively few things you can do apart from practicing avoidance maneuvers that will save you from the stupidity of another driver. Defensive driving is key, even on a motorcycle.

It all comes down to this, and the numbers are with me on this one, safety training and experience are the two most important factors in avoiding accidents. We already discussed not drinking and riding, that one was very obvious. Less obvious is the motorcycle safety classes that are offered everywhere for you to learn how to better ride your bike if you already have one, or to learn how to start riding if you don’t have one right now. Either way, going to class is a great help even if it is just for a refresher at the beginning of the season. After awhile, you get used to the stupidity of the other drivers on the road and you will start to learn what they look like and how they drive. This comes with time and miles.

First things first, if you tell them that you won’t drink and ride and that you are signed up for a motorcycle safety class, you will be better off in the argument that motorcycling is good for you instead of saying that it just is. You have accepted the risks, you have or will shortly have learned to manage them, and that is the edge you need to be a great rider. Having a great support structure around you is a plus, and it starts with training and building trust in others around you.

Hand Made

2007-10-10T04:10:00.001-07:00

More and more people are building their own motorcycles using chopper kits. These are the life size versions of model motorcycle kits. What use to be left up to the professionals is now quickly becoming a hobby for amateurs. You can purchase one of these kits to upgrade your current bike, or to completely build your own.

Because there are so many options when it comes to getting a "bike in a box", the first thing to determine is your budget. Though you could end up saving lots of money by doing it yourself, depending on the look and feel you want, once you finish purchasing all your extras you might end up spending about what you would have if you had purchased the bike from a dealer.

Should You Upgrade?

Secondly, you need to decide whether you are upgrading your current bike or want a completely new one. If you are upgrading, every manufacturer has parts and accessories you can purchase separately, or kits for certain areas like the chassis or frame.

Building from Scratch

If you are building from scratch, then you need to determine which make and model you like the best. Then determine what color and finish you want. Though a chopper kit comes with all the parts, it does not come painted or finished. This is one way to truly put your mark on the bike and make it your own.

For the inexperienced builder, there are several options when it comes to learning how to put your kit together. For those that like to figure things out by getting their hands dirty, you will have the time of your life figuring out how to put your chopper kit together. Be prepared for trial and error, and possibly some leftover parts, but that is the fun of it, right? For those that like reading, there are detailed instructions included with each kit, as well as several books you can purchase or download with instructions on exactly how to build your own bike.

For those that learn by watching someone else there are a couple of options as well. There are instructional videos and DVDs. You can watch them as many times as you like until you are comfortable with the process. If you are able to hook up a TV and VCR in your garage, you can rewind and playback as you assemble your kit. There are also classes or "boot camps" you can attend where you will have an instructor there to help you along and answer any questions.

Are you looking for a greasy, mechanical, do-it-yourself, garage project will occupy you for a couple of weeks? Putting together a chopper kit seems to be the hobby that is becoming increasingly popular. These days, you will be hard pressed not to see at least one motorcycle zoom by you on the road. Just know that could have been you flying by on your custom, personalized bike built with your own two hands.

2007-10-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

Motorcycles with flat tires . . . roll hard! If your motorcycle is cruising along at 55 mph and your rear motorcycle tire suddenly deflates [has a blow out!] you now have a tremendously, dangerous challenge ahead of you. Avoiding other vehicles, controlling the steering, a swaying rear-end making everything unstable makes for a sizable victory when you roll off the side of the road and come to a stop. Congratulations, job well done! More riders than not end in an accident or something worse. All because of their motorcycle tires. Who knows your thoughts if it is the front tire to blow? You better be prayed up.

We all want a sharp looking bike. Once you select your make and model, your interest is on chrome, color, accessories, personal appearance, dress etc. but let us not forget about the importance of the rubber motorcycle tires that get us around. Frame, structure and engine all work together and hopefully are worry free for years. Motorcycle tires keep moving and we need to often watch for wear and safety.

There are two critical places that motorcycles need to be checked before each ride or at least once a month. Both are easy to do and both are many times overlooked. One area is brake fluid. If the pedal is mushy, bleed the lines or have someone else do it. Two, motorcycle tires need to be inspected. Why do we forget these?

Our safety depends on it. We trust our life to the two motorcycle tires under us that have at best two patches of rubber in contact with the ground the size of our two hands at any given moment. Move that along at 55 mph or even at 15 mph and each of the motorcycle tires is taking on a serious responsibility. The attention and care we offer towards our motorcycle tires can help us tremendously with our safety and enjoyment of biking.

Here are some areas where things can go wrong with your motorcycle tires:

- Tire Pressure: Under-inflation may cause uneven wear, loss of control [stability], wears the motorcycle tires out faster and increases the chances of the motorcycle tires failure. Over-inflation allows motorcycle tires to heat up, limit traction [although a slight 10% over-inflation may actually increase traction in wet conditions] and affects the wear. To correct these, use a good tire gauge and check the motorcycle tires when it is cool. Keep the motorcycle tires pressure at the recommended PSI.

- Fluids: Brake fluid, gas and lube spills need to be cleaned immediately. It deteriorates the rubber. Many of the cleaner protectants used on motorcycle tires harm the finish rubber. The best way to clean is to use old-fashioned soap and water.

- Bumps: Potholes, curbs and stones may slash or crack the tire. Look for any problem.

- Accelerated wear: Everyday use may be a potential hazard. Spinning motorcycle tires on take off or holding the brake on emergency stops need to be checked.

- Nails, screws etc.: It is better to find them before you ride than to discover these nuisances 20 minutes down the road. Motorcycle tires that use a tube may “pop” from a nail/screw or sharp object, where a tubeless tire may have the nail/screw actually plug the hole they created which gives you a little more time for repairs.

- Valve stems: Make sure the cap is on. It helps to protect the valve stem from leaking air and protects the stem valve from opening by centrifugal force and leaking air at higher speeds. When you use motorcycle tires with tubes, the valve stem should be straight out. If it is on a slant, the tire has been under-inflated and the tube has moved around the rim. Often this damages the tube and creates a leak.

- Tire weights: Weights need to be firmly fixed to the rim. If they fall off it will throw the tire out of balance and cause uneven wear.

- Rim: Cracked or dented rims are potential problems. You may want to replace wire spoke wheels when they become damaged with a cast or billet wheel that uses tubeless tires. Check with your dealer on this.

- Worn/torn: Thin tread is easier to detect. Flat wear is due to leaning very little and driving mostly in a straight line, resulting in a ridge at the edge of the flattened middle of the tire. This causes motorcycle tires to become unstable in a leaning turn. It wants to warble. The tire may have more wear but it should be replaced. [It is good to replace both front tire and rear tire at the same time.] Sidewall punctures, cracking, cord separation are an alert.

- Tread: Check the grooves called “sipes” making sure that the tread is still sufficient. The lack of having tread affects the cooling of the tire when in use, wear, stability, traction and can cause hydroplaning on wet roads.

When doing your inspection of motorcycle tires get a friend to roll the bike while you check the tread and sidewalls. You may need to get a work stand if alone. Obstacles to having a good inspection are long pipes, saddlebags, fenders etc. making it hard to see the rear tire. Front motorcycle tires are a bit easier to examine. This sounds like a lot but it goes quickly and is easy to do. Make it a habit to check your motorcycle tires frequently.

Some miscellaneous information you need to know. You will have better handling and get more out your motorcycles tires when you keep the rear tire aligned and balanced. Consider having this looked at approximately every1000 miles. Be careful when you have new motorcycle tires it takes the first couple of rides to get traction working well.

So! Happy riding and remember to check your motorcycle tires often.

friends expirience!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-09-20T07:17:00.000-07:00

It was a little over a week ago when I was sitting in the airport about the board a plane that would take me away from the northeast’s hellish winter. The feelings of excitement crept up my spine, my body teething with anticipation. In a few hours I am going to be lying on a beach in the sunshine state, where the only thing I’ll be studying is female anatomy and the drink menu at the bar. As we board plane, visions of beach babes and coconut rum dance through my head. I turn to my travel buddy Jim, who is rocking out to the music blaring from his headphones. From the faint lyrics, I think I could make out the heart-pumping words of Kelly Clarkson’s “Since You’ve Been Gone.” “Jesus man, what are you listening to?” “Dude, I’m getting pumped!” he shouted back. Different strokes for different folks. All I knew, was that we were ready to cut loose.

Two hours later the pilot’s voice came on the intercom, “In a few moments, we will be landing in Daytona Beach, Florida. The weather is 83 degrees and sunny. Have a great spring break and enjoy bike week.” It was music to my ears. I didn’t know it was bike week, but the more the merrier, right? Jim and I approached the baggage carousel and anxiously awaited our luggage. As the red blinking light started spinning and motors on the conveyor belt started rumbling, we focused on the hole spitting out bags; knowing it was the last responsibility we would have to deal with for the next six days.

Our bags finally plopped out, which we grabbed immediately. Outside the terminal we met with our taxi driver; a disheveled, haggard looking fellow named Gilberto. His face was weathered from years in the sun; he could have been an advertisement for sunscreen. This guy was a character and oh boy, did he have stories. He told us stories about girls, bikers, crocodiles-- anything you could imagine—completely full of it, but entertaining. He kept feeding us ridiculous information, and he knew we were eating it up. Thirty minutes, $26 dollars, and few good laughs later, good ol’ Gil dropped us off at the Sea Spray Motel. It wasn’t the nicest accommodation, but it would suffice for two guys on spring break.

Jim and I changed into our swimming trunks and hit the boulevard. We were new to the city so we decided to check out a bar that Gilberto recommended called “The Oil Spill.” As we entered the bar, it seemed like the something out of a movie—the crowd instantly silent. The music might have skipped. We approached the bar, ordered up some drinks and the crowd seemed to continue on with their conversations and stories. What Gilberto forgot to mention was that the bar was a Hell’s Angels hang out. Jim and I stuck out like a sore thumb, to say the least. We relaxed and chatted about plans for the rest of the week, but grew nervous as we heard a loud rumble from outside. It sounded like 500 motorcycles were slowly surrounding on our location.

This is when Jim and I knew we were in trouble. A scrawny man with long grey hair, and an even longer goatee, looked out the window and shouted, “Banditos!” And with one word every biker jumped to his feet. What ensued is far too brutal to actually discuss, but there was a brawl. Fearing for our lives, Jim and I sat at the bar and did the only thing we could; hide in the corner under a table, until the bartender took us out through the back door. Apparently, an Angel stole a loading ramp from the Banditos, which they didn’t take too kindly.

2007-09-13T10:36:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the Honda VTX 1300 cruiser style motorcycle? Well look out, because here comes the new bread of Honda chopper with chopper kits available for this hot new motorcycle model from the famous Honda brand, well known for their reliable, fast and comfortable machines.

The Honda chopper concept has been around for a long time now so perhaps you are wondering why this may even be a worthy news item? Well, that is because things have changed with the new style VTX range of motorcycles from Honda. They are completely different from the old style machines that Honda became well known for. The Honda VTX is modern, light, easy to handle and very comfortable on a long ride. And now there is a huge range of custom motorcycle accessories available so that you can convert that standard Honda motorcycle into a Honda chopper with some extra chrome, a nice set of loud exhaust pipes and of course, the raked triple trees and fork tube extensions on the front end for that classic Honda chopper look.

The old school Honda chopper style of the 1970's has been dramatically updated for the new millennium with the Honda VTX 1300 chopper kits and custom parts available today. This fast and light motorcycle will outperform many competitors and still maintain an economical stance when it is time to fill up at the nearest gas station.

Honda chopper 21st century style can be obtained by fitting a chopper kit with raked triple trees and extended fork tubes. These chopper kits contain all the necessary parts you need to make the chopper conversion and include a choice of 9, 14, or 18 degrees of rake over stock and all the required components such as extended fork tubes, chrome steel trees, steel braided brake line and extended speedometer cable. The 9° raked with 4" over stock fork tubes adds 6" to the overall length of your Honda motorcycle, the 14° rake with 8" over stock fork tubes adds 10" to the overall length of your motorcycle and the really radical 18° rake with 10" over stock fork tubes adds 14" to the overall length of your standard Honda motorcycle for that extreme Honda chopper look.

Your Honda chopper will still ride safe all the way up to the top speed of the motorcycle and the cool thing about doing a chopper conversion to a factory standard bike is that you still get to use all the standard parts for maintenance and repair. There is a lot to be said for one off custom creations but using this method has got to be a lot more practical for the serious chopper enthusiast as you will be able to spend more time actually riding your Honda chopper and much less time in the repair shop!

2007-09-12T01:52:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of motorcycles today that dominate the market. You can customize all you want to get the best motorcycle your money could buy. Sure you can add flair, paint or extra parts on your motorcycles but these are the things that require research, which leads to better performance and a fast motorcycle. At the same time, they are durable and will break your body even before you will be able to break the inner parts of these things. Imagine paying for one of the best motorcycle manufacturers out there to get something really cool and you will be able to grasp the price on those machines. We are giving you a list of the four best in the world.

Let us start with MV Agusta F4 CC. CC stands for the director of the company Claudio Castiglioni. The Italians might not look good in manufacturing cars but they certainly can say a lot on motorcycles. This motorcycle features 1078 CC that can command a whopping 315kph. Near the top of the steering column you will be able to see the number of the motorcycle in terms of the order of production. Claudio Castiglioni created only 100 of these things which make it even a better catch if you have one. To get your hands on one of these, prepare at least $130,000 USD.

MTT Turbine Super bike will make you feel like you are riding a bullet. This motorcycle currently holds the record of being the “Most Powerful Motorcycle Ever to Enter Series Production” according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Parts of the engine of this motorcycle can be found in some parts of the Rolls Royce as well. Imagine the power of the car transferred into a motorcycle. In this motorcycle you get to enjoy at least 300hp. Aside from power, you should be drooling over the gadgets: LCD color displays if you want to know what is in your back and the fairings are made of carbon fiber. For protection, it has a radar detector that will tell you if something is really, really, close to you. If you have seen the movie torque, this is one of motorcycles featured in it. Price? $150,000 USD

At first glance you might think the Macchia Nera Concept Bike is nothing but a very big bike that boasts of something really big and expensive. In my opinion the idea is too simple. The motorcycle boasts of a Ducati 998RS engine with further components for development. Too bad that it is not in production but you can still have one of these if you have $201,000 USD.

We reserved the best for last and that is the Dodge Tomahawk V10. This super bike is anyone’s dream bike. 8.3 liter engines, 400mph, 1500lbs, four wheel (yep two wheels virtually stuck together) suspension…the features just keep going on and on. From zero to 60mph in only 2.5 seconds. What makes it even more expensive is that there are only a hundred of these. What is the current market price? $250,000 USD. Bragging rights? Priceless.

xx

2007-09-10T06:50:00.000-07:00

If anyone have a question, idea or something to ask, don't be afraid to write!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm listening!!!

choosing

2007-09-10T06:48:00.000-07:00

Know your options.

Bikes have become increasingly specialized in recent years, and the proliferation of different types of motorcycles offers a number of choices that can be both empowering and daunting.

Check out our bike types gallery for descriptions and photos of different styles of motorcycles. Once you have a better idea of what you want, consider visiting a dealership and asking to sit on various bikes. While interacting with different bikes, you'll probably develop distinct likes and dislikes, which will get you one step closer to making a purchasing decision.

Choose a bike that fits your body.

This point is less obvious than it might sound. Bikes come in dramatically different shapes and sizes, and so does the human body. Try a bike on for size, and if possible, take it for a spin; you'll find that the ergonomic experience of riding will differ dramatically from bike to bike. That café racer you thought was so cool, for instance, might strain your wrists to the point of discomfort. Conversely, that Harley Sportster you might have never considered might win you over with its low seat and manageable center of gravity. You won't know until you try one on for size!

New or Used?

There are a number of tradeoffs associated with both new and used bikes, and there is no single "right" choice; the choice is completely individual, and depends on personal preferences (not to mention finances.)

Used bikes are great for beginners because there's usually less worry about scratching or damaging something that's not already in perfect shape. They're also often better values, since they've already depreciated, though they might not be as reliable as new bikes, and cost more money in the long run.

New bikes come with the comfort of reliability a warranty, though you'll pay a premium for that peace of mind.

Consider your long-term budget.

When committing to buy a motorcycle, don't forget to estimate all the added expenses associated with riding.

Before choosing a bike, be sure to check insurance rates with several carriers, and pick a plan that works with your budget; in general, the higher the deductible, the lower the premium.

You'll want to budget the cost of safety gear. A quality helmet, jacket, gloves, and pants can add up to a substantial amount of money.

Also, don't forget to account for the cost of routine maintenance which can vary wildly, depending on make and type of motorcycle.

Though it may be tempting, don't make a rash purchase...

Buying your first bike is an exciting endeavor, but don't get too swept away with the heat of the moment. If you see a bike and fall in love with it, make sure you'll enjoy owning it after the initial thrill fades. Have a used motorcycle checked out by a qualified mechanic. Read up about the model you're considering, and consider all factors-- economic, practical, and otherwise, before making your purchase.

Chances are, you won't regret your forethought!

... and yet, choose a bike you'll be excited to ride!

People rarely choose to buy a motorcycle because they have to; bike purchases are often guided by passion. In spite of the inevitable practical issues to consider, it's important to choose a bike that you'll be excited to ride.

Many experienced riders will suggest you buy a sensible first bike, and if you can find a motorcycle that fits all the logical criteria and also makes you excited to ride, you've chosen well!

buying a bike??!

2007-09-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a few important factors to consider before you make that big purchase:

Don't underestimate your ability.

One common mistake among newbies is to purchase a bike with far more performance than they can handle. Stay away from crotch rockets, especially anything with an engine larger than 600cc; you'll learn more on a slower bike, and become a better rider because of it. Plus, after you've honed your skills and gained experience, you'll be ready to upgrade and truly appreciate a faster bike.

Consider your needs.

Will you be riding in lots of traffic? Traveling long distances? Motorcycles come in countless shapes and sizes, and you must consider your individual needs when picking a bike.

Think about how you'll be using your bike, and how riding it will impact your experience. If you're looking for a weekend toy, you might be more tolerant of a sexy bike that happens to be uncomfortable. If you plan on spending more time on your motorcycle, you'll want something with ergonomics and a seat that's comfortable for the long haul.

Recognizing your needs will make honing in on your future bike become infinitely easier.

2007-09-08T00:35:00.000-07:00

Today, motorcycling is more popular than ever and this trend shows no sign of slowing down. Bikes are becoming more and more specialized and thus there truly is no perfect bike—just the perfect bike for the type of riding one intends to do. So the most important step in starting biking is choosing the correct bike for the type of riding one will be doing the majority of the time.

There are numerous options open to the new rider. There is the cruiser, e.g., the classic Harley Davidson Softail, that which is designed for just that—cruising, and tends to provide a relaxed and comfortable ride though the profile is both long and low and can provide for an awkward ride for the inexperienced rider.

There is also the sportbike which is built solely for speed. A light bike, the sportbike is also a dangerous bike and requires some experience in handling. Not to mention that fact that insurance premiums are going to be higher for this type of ride. Therefore, the sportbike is not recommended as a beginning bike.

Then there is also the standard bike (think of a cross between a cruiser and a sportbike) which is a stable bike designed for general riding. These tend to be fairly easy to handle and provide a comfortable ride. The only downside to these bikes for a beginner is that they tend to have powerful engines and more power on a bike can be intimidating to the beginner. Great care should be exercised if such a bike is chosen.

Another option is the touring bike, e.g., think of the classic Honda Goldwing. The touring bikes are designed for long rides on stretches of open road. They are equipped with saddle bags for storage and provide adequate weather protection and can thus be driven under a multitude of conditions. Such bikes are costly, heavy and powerful and aren’t recommended for beginners.

There are other types of bike as well that one might consider though they are less popular than the choices introduced above. For example, there is the scooter which is geared primarily to local travel in an urban setting. Scooters are great on gas and very easy to handle, however they are not equipped for speed or long distances (there are however larger scooters designed for touring, e.g., the Honda Silverwing).

One might also consider a dual-sport bike, a bike designed for both on-road and off-road use. An easy bike to handle, lightweight yet powerful, cheap to insure, the dual-sport bike is also fun to ride.

One last type of bike worth mentioning, having always been a popular bike though gaining in popularity today, is the dirt bike. The dirt bike is designed for off-road and adventure riding and if one is interested in pumping adrenaline through his or her veins, then look no further than the sport of off-road riding.

Dirt bikes are fairly affordable, durable, and fun to ride. The only downside is that they are designed not for the street but strictly for off-road (if one is interested in both consider the dual-sport bike above).

As can be seen above, there are many types of bike for the beginning rider to choose from. From the cruiser to the dirt bike, there are many options and one’s choice should be based primarily on the type of riding that he or she will be doing the majority of the time. Choosing the correct bike is essential to one’s enjoyment of motorcycling as a whole.

Speak to friends who cycle and perhaps borrow their motorcycle and test it out for yourself. Visit local dealerships and test drive the types of cycle you are considering purchasing. But by all means, don’t jump on a cycle and ride out of the shop unless you are certain that that particular bike is for you. Many seasoned riders will tell you that a bike is an extension of the rider…so make an informed, wise decision and enjoy cycling for many years to come. And be safe!

safety on first place

2007-09-07T09:19:00.000-07:00

Motorcycle apparel includes helmets, jackets, pants, gloves and boots. These are used mainly to protect the motorcycle rider from serious injury in case of an accident. These days’ people understand the importance of these apparels and so the demands of these apparels are increasing day by day. One important motorcycle apparel is a Motorcycle jacket that is a common piece of protective clothing worn by riders to protect them from injuries in case of any mishappening.

These jackets are generally made of tough materials such as leather, nylon or kevlar. Compared to leather jackets, protective Tour master motorcycle jackets are becoming increasingly popular, as they besides offering protection from serious injuries, they also provide protection from the weather elements like heat, cold and wind. A motorcyclist is often exposed to chilly winds and rain. Ordinary jackets offer little or no protection in bad weather, whereas Tour

Master Motorcycle jackets are waterproof and do not allow wind chills to affect the rider.
Tour Master Jackets have a combination of comfort and protection for the convenience and safety of the rider. Tour Master Jackets have armor in the shoulder and elbow areas, and other hard-impact places to ensure protection. Padding or foam is also provided for comfort of the rider. Tour Master Jackets also have better fits than other jackets, to enable comfortable sports riding.
Tour Master Motorcycle jackets are stylish, classy, and extremely functional.

Tour Master Jackets form an essential part of motorcycle gear as they provide a unique combination of glamour, protection and comfort. Tour Master, motorcycle jackets are available both for men and women in plenty of different sizes, material, and styles. Tour Master Jackets offer all the features that one looks for in a motorcycle jackets, that too at very reasonable price.

welcome all enthusiasts

2007-09-07T08:13:00.000-07:00

Any interesting information regarding Vintage and Classic Motorcycles is welcome and should not be excluded. With this website I extend an open invitation to like-minded people to share and discuss their passion for Classic Motorcycles

introduction

2007-09-07T08:01:00.001-07:00

Any Harley enthusiast will tell you that a part of owning one is modifying it once it's yours. I can remember the days when I would go through my Harley Davidson parts catalog local store looking for Harley motorcycles parts. Chrome Harley Davidson parts can be hard to come by if you are looking for something unique that will make yours stand out from the crowd. The only problem was if I didn’t see it in the Sunday paper, I would have to wait another week before the next full classified ad section would come out. The information age has made those days a distant memory that most of us have forgotten. Motor-sports blogs have changed the way we go about getting our information forever.