|
Wednesday, January 20. 2010
Motorbikes have become a hobby for some. Others, an investment. There are lots of accessories currently available in the market for upgrading or improving its aesthetics.
Essential motorbike accessories
Apart from the usual helmet, jacket, or bike covers, other motorbike accessories have surfaced as a necessity for some. These include the micro fuel filter which stops even the smallest debris in its tracks. It fits most bikes easily and can be installed in seconds. Motorbike horn improvements are not only for making noise or getting you noticed, it also becomes safeguard for others who might be in your way. Roadside repair kits should also be a part of every motorbike. This handy kit can save you from being stranded because you never know when parts might fall apart.
Top brands for motorbike accessories
With the growing market for motorbikes, parts, and accessories, top brands have surfaced to deliver quality products. Some of these include Accel, Bridgestone, Daytona Twin Tec, Mustang, Firstgear, National Cycle, and Carroll Leather among others. These brands cover everything from parts, accessories, and even leather coverings as well as clothing apparel for drivers.
Buying accessories can be tedious, given the wide range and variety of seemingly interesting products. However, browsing over the internet can help learn more about these products and compare prices as well. Suitability for motorbike model should also be considered.
Monday, March 19. 2007
Sometimes, there are periods when we do not use our bike. It could be during the cold winter months or maybe, because of some business and travel reasons. Whatever excuse it is, you have to maintain the good condition of your motorcycle or else, you can spend a lot of money for repair once rust or dirt damages it. This article provides you with some tips in keeping your motorcycle in excellent condition, even if not in use.
First, check if its fuel system remains conditioned and drained. The most effective way to check this is by adjusting the level to its lowest mode. Afterwards, put an additive fuel stabilizer. Get your motor running for some time to guarantee that the substance penetrates all over the whole fuel system.
Next, thoroughly clean your bike by using degreasing materials to sweep all the grime that accumulated throughout the past weeks. Remember to always clean the suspension gears and brakes. Be certain that the motorcycle is totally dry before you put the cover. Make sure that the cover breathes so that there's no condensation that can occur. You have to be meticulous in cleaning your motorcycle because the system would be stored for long periods of time. You do not want to be surprised the next time you kick start your engine and the motorcycle doesn't run. Hence, follow these bike maintenance tips.
Monday, January 29. 2007
I rarely see motorbikes with sidemirrors, and this may very well be because you could easily turn your head sideways to check traffic while your driving. Stupid move, my friend - accidents happen about a hundredfold faster than how much time it takes for a strain of the dreaded AIDS virus to infect your body once it gets in your system. And results are very much similar between motor-related accidents and getting infected with HIV - death.
I once bought this 2nd hand Honda motorcycle back when I was still a kid, and with it came along a big heavy helmet, and it also had no sidemirrors. This was the time when I was living the exact opposite of a safe and healthy lifestyle, and I didn't mind not being able to use my peripheral vision, lift my head with ease, nor see traffic going on my backsides. This evidently resulted in an accident which almost cost me my life, if not jail time, and actually cost me what I thought was a fortune then.
I immediately bought a pair of sturdy sidemirrors, as well as a lighter half helmet. Doing so eased my motorcycle driving by 80% as soon as I used them. Safety first, always safety first.
Saturday, January 27. 2007
I'm so obsessed with cool GPS devices. I figured that if I had GPS installed in my car and in my motorcycle, I can conquer the world or something like that. Seriously, GPS systems really help you when you get lousy with directions. You can easily map out your routes if you have a GPS system.
My Honda Gold Wing was just installed with a TomTom Rider. The TomTom rider first came out in European countries. When it got to America, I was ready to buy one, immediately. The TomTom Rider is a water-resistant GPS system which can command your every turn and actions. It's Bluetooth enabled and it can store a massive memory capacity of road maps and information. It also has a flash disk memory to hold other road maps.
When you have this smashing hot GPS system, you don't have to constantly look at your handlebars for direction. It has loud and clear speaker sets to direct you of your turns and, well, your directions. The TomTom Rider is the best of its kind. Hey, I'm not just saying this because I have one. It really is second to none. It's top-quality and it has a high memory, and hey that rhymes! Anyway, you'll never get lost again if you have the TomTom Rider GPS system.
Thursday, January 25. 2007
 When our neighbor got his first motorcycle, he immediately changed most of its parts. He had the seats custom-made. He upgraded the leather, just like his hot car seats. Everything in his motorcycle was leathered up. I wondered how I could upgrade my motorcycle that way, when I am not into leather so much.
Then, I just saw this cool hip-hop music video on the television the other day. My eyes were practically blinded by all the bling-bling of the hip-hop stars. I saw this cool motorcycle in the background of this video. It had shiny tire mugs and it has a shiny silver lining from the gas tank and up to the motorcycle seats. The custom-paint was in shiny silver color. Everything about the motorcycle screamed bling!
If I were to buy my first motorcycle, I would definitely shell out money on those custom bling parts. It is not just about the bling factor of it; it is about the presentation and the quality of the custom-made parts. Many custom shops accept this kind of motorcycle jobs. So, if you have a motorcycle and you want to upgrade it, just have it blinged-up. Your motorcycle would surely look like a million bucks.
Sunday, January 21. 2007
Motorcycle theft is very prevalent in America, nowadays. There are even cases wherein some parts of the motorcycle would be stolen and not the whole thing itself. You see, motorcycles have parts that can be sold separately. This makes the motorcycle all the more tempting, for the robbers. So, what can you do to protect your motorcycles from the robbers' itching fingers? Buy the Gorilla alarm system.
You have to ensure your motorcycle's safety by installing it with the Gorilla alarm system. This security system would really keep your motorcycle safe and sound. There's the sensor for the tilt motion of your motorcycle. This would make the alarm sound off when your motorcycle is moved from its original position. There's also the sensor for shock wherein your motorcycle alarm would sound off if your bike suddenly feels an impact or any physical bump or interaction. You can choose from seven levels of the alarm sound.
Your motorcycle's electrical system is also very important. So, the Gorilla alarm system would sound off if someone attempts to "hotwire" your electrical system. The installed GPS system in your motorcycles should also be secured with this alarm system. The Gorilla alarm system is very user-friendly because it can be installed on any types of motorcycle. So, do not risk the possibility of losing your beloved motorcycles. Secure them with the Gorilla alarm system.
Saturday, January 20. 2007
 Whenever I ride on my friend's motorcycle, I always get this back ache. I do not know why, I know I was doing everything right. But then, my friend said that his bike was custom-made for his height and arm length. He was a bit shorter than I am, so, I was scooting a bit when I was riding his motorcycle. Just like car seats, a motorcycle seat also needs adjustments. You have to really get the measurement right, to be able to avoid certain uneasiness and body pains.
When you buy your first bike, you should be able to have your seat height to perfectly match your own height. That way, you could avoid developing back pains and you can most definitely avoid developing common scoliosis disorder. You see, motorcycle seat height is very important if you are going to ride your motorcycle everyday. You should also consider your seat padding.
If you are going to ride your bike on a long trip, it's best that you use soft padding. If you are using it for short trips and you are more comfortable with the hard padding, then, you can just maintain the basic padding. If your seat is too high, you can always remove some of the padding out, so that, it would be more suited for your height. Being comfortable in your motorcycle is very important, where else can you start first, but, on your motorcycle seat.
Friday, January 19. 2007
I once had the chance to ride a motor bike with my cousin. I was glad that he was conscious about safe driving. He was prepared with all the necessary protective driving gears. Before anything else, he asked me to wear a helmet. I was surprised to see a small device attached to the helmet.
He called the device Chatterbox. It works like a transmitter. He told me that it helps prevent accidents caused by the busy communication between the driver and the rider. The transmitter is battery-operated. It allows the driver and the rider to talk to each other without shouting or without turning at each other in order to clearly hear the conversation. This way, the participants can focus in driving and watching over the road or the traffic situation.
Each unit includes a microphone that readily attaches to any kind of helmet, a speaker that produces an exceptionally clear sound, and a bracket. Aside from that, the device uses a technology called voice activation so drivers and riders need not to push buttons to be able to talk to the Chatterbox. It is designed to stand tough road conditions including noisy surroundings. What is best is that the device can be connected to a cassette disk player or personal music player.
Thursday, January 11. 2007
The first time my uncle got his big bike, he was so careful with it that he did not even ride on it until a month passed by! He said that the paint might chip off or the tires might get flat or something. Of course, he needed to ride it sometime soon, doesn't he? So, he did. Before you know it, he rode his bike to work everyday, even with his hot car and all.
Just last week, a strong hail storm poured down and my uncle left his bike outside the garage. As you know, the paint did chip off and he was devastated. Good thing that he knows of a shop which specializes on motorcycle custom paint. There are so many designs and techniques to choose from. Boy, was my uncle glad that hail storm came, or else, he would not get the chance to customize his bike's paint. He did a flaming heat design at the sides of his gas tank. His bike looked so cool.
If you want to paint your motorcycle your own way, you can easily have it airbrushed, painted, or coated. There are also cool stickers that you can add to your custom painted bikes. Your motorcycles would look like a million bucks with the touch of customized paint. So, are you up for your bike's make-over?
Monday, January 8. 2007
 My uncle who's a motorcycle rider just had a motorcycle accident because of the slippery wet road. It's a good thing that it was not a major accident. He immediately changed his tires to suit the constantly changing weather. Although, the best tires for your motorcycle are those that are good for asphalt roads. More often than not, everything that a motorcycle passes on is asphalt roads.
A tread on motorcycle tire is the best tire for all types of situation, although, it is not highly suggested for slippery wet roads. But, for the most part, it is the most practical and useful of all the tire types. Just like car tires, there are certain tires that are for every use.
A treadles or racing slick is most useful on asphalt roads. This tire can really stick to the ground while you're riding your motorcycle. You would really avoid accidental situations with this beauty. It has the most extreme grip on asphalt roads, or any other solid grounds. If you want a spare tire for that muddy and wet road, you can get an off-road tire. It would be very useful on slippery roads.
Friday, December 22. 2006
 Motorcycle Helmets are a must to wear when you're riding on your motorcycles. You can never go out, even at the shortest distance without your helmet on. There have been so many fatal motorcycle accidents dated, so as a safety precaution, you should always have your helmet on. If you're uncomfortable wearing a helmet, well, you can't do anything about that. What you can do is to select a helmet that best suits you. You should be very comfortable in your helmet because you can't ride your bike around and tug on your helmet all the time, doing that can put you in a lot of danger.
I think that the best helmet is the full face helmet. This type of helmet covers your face and your head. This is the best choice because you have instant eye protection. You can choose a helmet that has polarized eye lenses. That way, you won't be distracted by the sun's glare. The full face would also protect your face from unexpected flying objects that might slap on your face while you're riding your bike. Of course, the most important thing is that it fully covers your head. This is the part of your body that you should protect the most. You just have to select a helmet that perfectly fits your head. It should be tight enough, but not too much. The fit should fall snuggly on your head and face. Don't buy something that hurts your forehead and cheeks. Lastly, the ear holes in the helmet should be able to fit your ears perfectly. That said, it's time to opt for the best head protection.
Thursday, December 21. 2006
 I have never thought that motorcycles could have an audio system. Of course, it's not so odd to see motorcycle riders cruising down the street with a loudly booming music with them. It's so cool to be riding around town with good music to accompany you along the way, don't you think? It's also not so bad to share your music of choice to the people that you pass by while riding your motorcycle. Who says that only set-up cars can have all the fun when it comes to playing music?
The JMCB-2003 All-in-one audio system really has everything in it. Along with the audio system itself, it has a headset, a microphone, and an "integrated" audio gear. If you feel like listening to music by yourself while riding your motorcycle, you can simply use your headset gear. This audio system has a built-in weather band. This would enable you to avoid that unexpected downpour. You can also access your walkman or any music device in this audio system. You might be thinking that this is a cool idea but, how can you install it? Well, it's also very easy to install. All you have to do is clasp it on the left handlebar and then connect the cool audio system in your bike's electrical system. Of course, there's a bracket kit that goes with the audio system. You're sure to have a secured audio system in your motorcycle. So, turn on that JMCB-2003 audio system and rock on!
Friday, December 8. 2006
 K and N is the major manufacturer of motorcycle parts. They are one of the most trusted brands among motorcycle accessories and parts. Their products are of high quality, always durable and reliable.
They offer various bike parts. The most popular among their line of K&N High Flow Replacement Air Filters is the Buell Blast 2000. Buell Blast 2000 is used to help speed up motorcycles by adding horsepower and acceleration. Aside from this function, this high flow replace air filter provides top filtration that can help your motorcycle run better. This is attached to the engine and because of its design, the horsepower and speed of your motorbike will improve. No matter how old or boring your motorbike is, it will surely blast its way on the pavement if you install an air filter on your bike, especially if it is Buell Blast 2000.
This reusable high flow replacement air filter is washable and durable and comes with a ten year and million mile warranty. You can get this at your nearest motorcycle repair shop or browse it through the internet and order it online.
Friday, November 24. 2006
 The statistics say that most motorcycle deaths are caused by accidents with passengers and drivers not wearing helmets. Helmets are very important when riding a motorcycle. I'm sure if you use your motorbike as your major source of transportation to and fro, you own a helmet because it is required in America, Europe and almost all countries that motorcycle riders wear a helmet.
Wearing a helmet is essential. Why else would football and hockey players wear one? Imagine the impact of hits they go through compared to the impact you would get if you fly off your motorcycle in case of emergency? Be careful when riding motorcycles. A health or life insurance is not enough to keep you worry-free.
Death should not be the price to pay when you want to feel the sweet, cold breeze of the mountainside and freeways. Be responsible and keep your head intact. Don't worry about it ruining your styled hair. Arrive early at the venue and style it at the public restroom. Worry about crashing your head on the pavement instead. Fashion-conscious? Buy helmets that will match your bike's color. Get helmets that are in season.
The point is, don't be hard-headed. Stubbornness won't prevent your brain matter from spewing on the road.
Monday, November 20. 2006
 If you are on a tight budget but is still looking to fulfill your dreams of owning a magnificent two-wheeled vehicle, then perhaps you should start browsing to your monthly buy and sell magazine.
Used motorcycles, as we can all tell, is a lot cheaper than new ones. The key in finding the motorcycle of your dreams is to zoom in on the brand and quality you want.
First, figure out what brand of motorcycle you want to have. Is it Ducati, Harley, Suzuki, Honda or other motorcycles form other manufacturers? Then research through print ads or the internet the availability of the brand of motorcycle you are looking for.
Then get into the details, look for the model you want. If you don't have a particular name of model in mind, then browse through the pictures and look for 'that' motorcycle.
Lastly, personally see the motorcycle. Look if there are physical damages on the body of the motorcycle. Try starting the engine and hear if it creates that sweet "vrroom" sound you're looking for. And of course, check the mileage of the vehicle. Ask about where it's been and how it has been used. Also, see if you can talk to the salesperson about selling you new parts or accessories for your motorcycle.
Monday, November 13. 2006
 No, you are not going to fight with this seat, not unless it's called for. This seat is designed to make your trips with your bike more comfortable and literally not a pain in the ass! This Streetfighter seat has a set back seating area compared to the stock seat position. To make the drivers look aggressive, this seat includes a unique "kicked-up" area to hold the rider and make him look like he's ready for anything. It features a sleek "cheat-the-wind" pillion area.
This Streetfighter Seat which costs $169.95 fits only2003 and later XB9S models and 2004 and later XB12S model except the latest 2006 XB12Ss. An embroidered Pegasus logo is embellished in its carbon fiber design.
You can take the Streetfighter out in any weather and you'll still feel comfortable on it. Streetfighter will really create a macho look for you. So, are you ready to street fight with this seat?
Sunday, November 12. 2006
Customize your wheels and get a pair of Diamond Highlighted Sprocket now. It absolutely has a highly cosmetic finish to make your bike look sparklingly amazing. Very decorative and unique, it is designed and intended to enhance the rear sprocket style and it is manufactured from imaginative and original equipment specifications just for a perfect fit.
Although this may cost you more as it requires a separate purchase of new sprocket bolts. Separate bolts needed are P/N AA0609.11CXZB or 40034-04Y. Diamond Highlighted Sprocket fits all 2004 to present XB models. It may not be available in the market but its MSRP is $89.85. It is a good buy for your bike. This is the last thing your dependable bike is missing to give those girls a ride! Get one now before you rev up!
Monday, October 30. 2006
 There are a lot of men, women, who like to drive motorcycles. Since there is no protection on this vehicle, motorcycle drivers are more prone to accidents. Because of this, they need to get the parts that will help them be safe on the road.
One important part is the mirror. This helps the driver see the vehicles behind him or her. If he or she sees that the road is clear, then he or she can swerve to another lane.
One of the best mirrors today is the Goldwing GL1800 Signal ® Mirrors by Honda. This is unlike any other mirrors because it lessens the glare in mirrors. This hi-tech mirror can fit the Honda models from 2001 up to the present.
Tuesday, October 24. 2006
 Is your bike a valuable one? Is it likely to be stolen, or even vandalized? We all know that the best way to look after your vehicle is to actually look after it, but you can't spend the whole day just looking at it, can you?
That's where a security system like the Aritronix Thunder Page comes in. This highly compact and advanced alarm system is designed to be the ultimate in motorcycle security systems, and is a really "smart" alarm. Utilizing a beeper to inform you of the situation (and even how your bike is being messed with), the Aritronix Thunder Page also has a powerful sound alarm system that will alert those around your bike that it's being tampered with, and is loud enough to discourage most criminals.
Great for those who travel or for those who park it on the driveway, the Aritronix Thunder Page is an excellent security tool for every motorcyclist.
Monday, October 23. 2006
 Just like a car or any other huge transportation investment, owning a motorcycle is a huge responsibility. Its maintenance and care must be constantly kept so that no problems or hazards during use can be encountered. So, what happens in the event that you indeed need to have a motorcycle part replaced: do you go for the part from original manufacturer or the cheap one from the local motorcycle shop?
Generally, these parts can be of the same quality and same performance. Forget the part about original being the higher value, since manufacturers nowadays get their own supplies from small companies who make the parts. Will the part be a replacement or an upgrade? Can you afford the original and is it available? Will it be good for your bike in the long run? It all depends on your current budget, need and other requirements.
Wednesday, October 4. 2006
 For motorcyclists who wish to maximize the potential of their motorcycles there is always room for an accessory and that is a motorcycle trailer. Cargo that needs to be transported can be attached on the trailer through the trailer hitch. Often these types of motorcycle accessories are useful for those who wish to make some long trips to the country--however in the US there are restrictions for trailers to promote road safety.
A frame made of tubular steel is a must for anyone who would like to buy a trailer that's lightweight and sturdy. The weight should not go beyond 150 pounds. An average width for every trailer attachment is a must, since if you buy a wider model you will have difficulty navigating the motorcycle on the side of the road. The height of the trailer also plays a role on a smart purchase. A low trailer would be conducive to the exhaust channel, preventing exhaust to be emitted directly on to the rider, and result in avoidance of carbon monoxide intoxication.
Saturday, September 30. 2006
 This Ducati wheel is a definite must-have for every motorcycle owner. This wheel is made from real aluminum wheels and is created by Marchesini. This pair of wheels is a perfect fit for the 999 as well as 749 models of the Ducati Superbikes.
One thing that makes these wheels stands out among other wheels is the design in the shapes of five letters of Y. Its front wheel rim measurements are 3.5 inches by 17 inches, while its back measurements are 5.5 inches by 17 inches.
In order to make this incredible motorcycle part, Ducati used the highest technology for machining as well as finishing. For this reason, different styles were created without affecting the quality or even speed of the motorbike.
Thursday, September 28. 2006
 Superbikes are the most dangerous motorcycles ever to be licensed for street use. One reason is that they are specifically built for GP racing. Though this may not necessarily be a problem on the freeway, when you get to slimmer roads and angular turns, superbikes are speeding caskets. The makers of the Kawasaki Ninja series, especially the highly rated Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10,R are definitely familiar with this characteristic of superbikes: you have to be a Ninja to ride this baby.
Exaggerations aside, the Ninja ZX-10R can match anything Honda's CBR 1000 and Suzuki's GSX-R 1000 has to offer., and compared to other 600cc superbikes on offer, it boasts a lighter and more comfortable design and a smaller front which might just put it up in the running for safest and easiest-to-handle superbike.
Made as the successor of the ZX-9R, the ZX-10R is a whole new creature altogether, and the 2006 model goes even farther away from the old cluncky "speeding caskets." The 2004 and 2005 versions were voted Best Superbikes by Cycle World Magazine.
Friday, September 22. 2006
 In the past, if you wanted to find your way to a pace you've never been to before, you often had to rely on a fold-out map that never folded back the way it was, or on just plain luck to get where you're going.
But now, thanks to new gadgets like the Magellan Meridian GPS, you can now put away those maps and stop relying on lady luck to find your way around. With this compact and easy to use machine, you can now find a specific place nearly anywhere in the country within 25 feet. Powered by 2 AA batteries, the Magellan Meridian GPS is good for about 8-10 hours of continuous use or even longer with the ac cigarette lighter adapter (sold separately).
Although equipped with a general map of the United States, that map is by no means a comprehensive one. To get the most out of your Magellan Meridian GPS, you'll have to get the add-on software and download them onto the cell phone-sized GPS. The Meridian attaches to a windshield with a suction cup rig that can withstand even driving rain or snow.
Saturday, September 9. 2006
Are you looking for a motorcycle bag, but don't trust those bags that attach to the back of your bike? Do you want something that you can keep close to you and monitor very closely?
Good news for you security conscious bikers out there! Now you don't have to apply for insurance at insweb for that valuable stuff you keep in your rear bags. Just get a River Road One-Bag tank bag and you can keep an eye on your valuables without wrenching your back.
With tons of storage space, and equipped with powerful magnets, the River Road One-Bag tank bag is a very secure way to keep your stuff safe. It even comes with a map pouch on top so that you can easily tell where you are. This is one tank bag that riders shouldn't miss out on.
|
|
Motorcycle News Comments