Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Finding the Best Motorcycle Dealers
They share this love for the motorcycle and the degree of freedom it provides to those who get to ride and cruise.
The motorcycle is definitely a good companion. It can bring you almost anywhere.
No wonder many people have fallen in love with them and would like to buy them.
However, when it comes to buying a motorcycle, there must are certain precautions to be taken.
Finding the Best Motorcycle Dealer
Motorcycles are available at motorcycle dealerships. They can also be bought from the people who do buy and sell of these vehicles.
There are also some that made their services available on the intenet.
Evidently, the buyers have been given a wide leeway to choose as desired.
However, it is a must to find the one who can really give a good deal. Stay away from those who will defraud you.
Here are some things to consider when you seeking the right motorcycle dealer out there.
1.From the Dealer or from an Individual?
Some people can actually get a better deal from an individual, only if they are lucky enough.
It may be cheaper because the bike isn't as new, but aside from that, there may be no warranties.
Buying from a dealer can actually give you the edge because these dealers are banking on their reputation.
There is no room for mistakes for the dealers or else they won't get the buyers.
There are also warranties in the contract. This will at least ensure that any problems encountered later on will be addressed properly.
2.Ask Your Friends
It will be helpful to ask your peers about the dealerships that can offer good prices and quality based from their experiences. They may have encountered some problems during their time, you will definitely not repeat the same.
You can also read some magazines and reviews to know the opinions of other people regarding a particular dealer or experience. It never hurts to listen to what they have to say.
3.Check Your Online Options
Motorcycle dealers have expanded to the internet. Today, you can browse the internet and look for a dealer and compare the various prices and offers.
There are also web sites that will allow you to find the nearest motorcycle dealer in your locality or state. This way, you won't be clueless if you don't have any information to begin with.
Conclusion
Look for and buy only from the best dealer that you can find. This is the only way to ensure that you are getting a good deal for your money and effort.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Buying, Driving, and Other Tips for Motorcycle Rentals during Travel
Benefits of Motorcycle Rentals
Efficient Traveling – Riding a motorcycle will get you to where you’re going much quicker than a car would because motorcycles are able to make use of passages and perform nifty moves that bulky vehicles are essentially unable to do.
Affordable Solution – Motorcycle rentals are also cheaper than car rentals. Why spend more when you don’t have to? With motorcycle rentals, you’ll have extra pocket money to spend!
Option for Private Transporation – If you’re heading to Venice, you should know that this lovely Italian city doesn’t allow people to use cars; you can however use motorcycles if you’re not that fond of manual bikes or walking.
Tips on Renting a Motorcycle
Selection – It’s best that you rent from a shop which allows you to choose from a varied selection of motorcycles. In the event that your rented motorcycle will malfunction, the shop will surely be able to send you a replacement unit immediately.
Support and Services – If there are documentation needs for you to take care of before being able to rent a motorcycle, is the shop willing and able to help you take care of these requirements?
Price – Lastly, always compare prices and rates before making the final decision of where you’re going to rent a motorcycle.
Using and Driving a Rented Motorcycle Out of Town or Abroad
Always make sure that you have obtained the necessary license and other documentations before renting out any motorcycle. Laws regarding use and driving motorcycles after all varies from state to state (or country to country for that matter) so you may need to take additional tests even if you’re already a licensed motorcycle driver back at home.
Don’t forget to ask about insurance. Again, insurance requirements depend on where you’ll be using your rented motorcycle so you may also need to obtain additional but temporary insurance to be able to legitimately use a motorcycle on foreign roads.
Familiarize yourself with traffic and driving rules and regulations for motorcycles at your destination.
Clean your rented motorcycle regularly and treat it with care to avoid paying penalties later on. If, however, something still happens with your rented motorcycle, don't attempt DIY repair unless you’re professionally qualified to do so or it’s an emergency.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Motorcycle service packages and insurance
Believe it or not, motorcycle service is available anywhere and anytime you want it. Whether the service you require is regular maintenance, add-on accessory, tune-ups, inspections that are pre-purchased, repairs that are major or minor, the motorcycle service department of PMC is available at your beck and call.
Their service includes a whole package that is perfect for the season of winter. One such motorcycle service costs less than fifty dollars and includes the stabilization of the motorcycle’s fuel system.
Inspection of the motorcycle’s rear and front brake pads as well as rotors. Inspection of the hydraulic brake system is also included as well as the fluid top off.
Inspection of the operational clutch is also included. Tire inspections, pressure checking, suspension components inspection is considered. Inspection of the charging system, the wheel bearings, the transmission / engine / leaks for final drive.
Drive train inspection to ensure operational correctness is within the package. Cabling inspection for appropriate operation is included and instrumentation inspection.
The PMC motorcycle service also charges less than forty dollars for filter and oil change. This package includes lube oil change and extra synthetic oil.
A flush system clutch for less than thirty five dollars is also included. This package comes with a fluid.
Their motorcycle service also offers a free balancing and mounting when you buy a tire set, though the standard fee supply and disposal of tires also apply.
Another company that offers its motorcycle service is aptly called Motorcycle Service, LLC.
This company offers various programs for insurance for the dedicated motorcycle driver. They provide higher coverage limits compared to other insurance competitive programs, thus ensuring you of a lot greater savings.
Motorcycle service, LLC takes any and all information it collects confidentially. The information Motorcycle service, LLC collects actually vary on the specific product type, service one seeks.
Among the information collected includes address, name, age, contact details, social security, beneficiaries, income, assessts.
Motorcycle service, LLC makes it a point to not disclose personal info unless they are permitted by law to do so.
They do disclose info to particular companies which perform some form of service marketing especially to those institutions in which they have marketing joint agreements.
All in all, motorcycle services are available and accessible to anyone and everyone. However, prevention is always better than a pound of cure, and maintaining your motorcycle is always best than waiting for it to be worn, shabby and no longer useful.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
How to Buy and Take Care of Your Motorcycle Apparel
Everyone who has been riding motorcycles knows very well the utmost importance of protecting one’s body. With a motorcycle you are more vulnerable than when you are in a car and thus you have to take all necessary precautionary measures to maintain safety. The helmet is a given in terms of biking protection, however, you shouldn't overlook what you wear when riding. You should also take into consideration the motorcycle apparel you wear.
Motorcycle apparel should be designed for riding and one that keeps you insulated and dry during your rides. It should also be sturdy enough to protect your from scrapes and bruises in case of accidents. Motorcycle apparel serves as your second skin and keeping you warm in cold weather, or ventilated during warm weather. A good material for motorcycle apparel is leather.
When buying your motorcycle apparel you should ask the store or the manufacturer about the materials used for the gear. You should know whether it uses synthetic or natural fibers and materials. This also determines what kind of caring and cleaning steps are appropriate for its materials. This is especially important with leather gear, because with proper care motorcycle apparel can last to up to 10 years or even more.
Ask the store for maintenance or cleaning products that they recommend for the motorcycle apparel you are buying. If you are choosing leather gear, be sure to know the type of finish it has because that would greatly determine what kind of care would be appropriate. Stores sometimes have their own set of cleaning solutions for motorcycle apparel and it would be recommended to use them. If they are too expensive for your budget, look at their ingredients and find similar products in the supermarket.
Motorcycle apparel may cost a lot more than your regular clothes because they are made for riding. Despite the costs, they could be worth every penny because of the protection they could provide you. They can also help you build on your style as a rider. By wearing real motorcycle apparel you can definitely look and feel like a bike rider.
Buying motorcycle apparel should be considered as an investment by any rider. With god motorcycle apparel, you can ride with style and at the same time feel confident about your warmth and safety. So go ahead to your local motorcycle apparel store and find the gear that fits you and your taste.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Getting the Best Motorcycle for You
There are plenty of benefits to having your own motorcycle but before you get into the actual buying consider some important points that you may want to take note of in order to fully assess your need to buy yourself one of these exciting automobiles.
More than 93% of the time, men want their own motorcycle. That is one of the recent datas gathered from a recent regional statistic in the
Nevertheless, you have to think about the important talking points before you get your wallet out of your pocket and shell out bucks to cover expenses related to your motorcycle buying.
• Experience. If you are going buy a motorcycle, you need to know your level of experience in terms of driving. You might have gained a professional drivers licence for your automobile but riding a motorcycle is different from a car. Consider these and get yourself out of trouble.
Motorcycle rides are one of the most dangerous accidents you will ever engage in according to the US Department of Transportation. If you want to know more about motor safety and driving, you may contact Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
• Motorbike’s Intended Use. Note some special considerations on how you would like to use your motorbike. Are you young, sport-enthusiast? Go for sport motorcycles. If you are someone who enjoys moving around the city with your favourite motorcycle, without becoming rough on the road, you might get yourself a commuting/touring bike.
In effect, you may want to consider your lifestyle when trying to move around the market looking for some motorcycles that will surely fit your personality and the way you live your life on a daily basis.
• Budget. There are plenty of considerations that you have to think of before you get yourself a new motorcycle. Consider your allotted budget and household priorities. Should mortgage come first? Children’s tuition, pending bills, household appliances, etc. Keeping yourself interested in buying a motorcycle is OK as long as you have other more important expenses covered.
A decent motorbike would cost one from $4000 to $24000. Talk to your local motorbike dealers and inquire on the most appropriate paying options they have for you inasmuch as motorcycle financing is concerned.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Where to Find Motorcycle Online Forums
What could be better than having a bike and riding it? Why, talking about it, of course! For millions of motorcycle fans worldwide, it's nearly impossible to run out of reasons and topics about their beloved rides. If you're looking to make biker friends and exchange some stories, here are a few sites to check out:
Harley Heaven (www.harley-heaven.com)
For Harley fans and those who want nothing but pure Harley news and information, Harley Heaven has a chatroom where you can meet and swap Harley talk with likeminded folks. There are also links to repair tips and tricks, lifestyle, free pictures and in true Harley fashion, a link to tattoos and piercings.
CT Biker's Guide (www.ctbikersguide.com)
If you want a site that opens directly to an online forum, then this website is for you. To get in, you must register to become a member. Membership gives you access to more features than guest users usually get.
There's private messaging, email access and a user group subscription to keep you updated. Topics include events, bands, bars, a mechanic's corner for repair tips, a swap shop for trading merchandise, photos of members' rides and even an off-topic chatroom for topics that have nothing to do with bikes.
Riding Across USA (www.ridingacrossusa.com)
RaU has an online forum for members that is categorized into different topics such as motorcycle discussions, parts sales, biker events, riding schedules, local meetings and more information about motorcycles and bikers. And you're not only limited to fellow bikers in the
Bad Weather Bikers (www.badweatherbikers.com)
This site is dedicated to Buell motorcycle fans. Like most riding sites, it features some interesting links: its Knowledge Vault features articles for repairs, parts, gadgets, apparel and accessories; the Tale Section features biker stories submitted by members and there is also info about racing, news about sponsors, a classified ads page and of course, an online message board.
Real Divas Ride (www.realdivasride.com)
This site features an online forum exclusively for women riders. A good place to meet and greet fellow lady bikers to exchange news and information, find riding partners and groups and learn about current riding events. It also features a page on biker products and services and an online message forum.
Members can post queries, events and even submit photos and profiles of their own rides. Although made up mostly of women riders, male browsers are also welcome.
Minnesota Wings Motorcycle Club (www.mnwings.com)
With over 400 members, this group's site offers the usual biker info and separate pages for its seven chapters in both
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Be Updated with Motorcycle Events
Some people love living in the fast lane.
They ride their motorcycles and enjoy the strong wind as they speed up down the road and enjoy the journey.
However, for the real motorcycle enthusiast, it isn't enough to simply live in the fast lane. Living in the fast lane must go hand in hand with living with style.
Many enthusiasts have taken odds and lengths to find the perfect bike to express themselves.
This aspect of self-expression in riding the motorcycle can sometimes be something that only people with the same interest can understand.
It is no wonder that a motorcycle lover will look for a fellow enthusiast to be able to share this ideas to those who can understand.
This is where going to motorcycle events may be of significance.
Why Go to a Motorcycle Event?
There are certain reasons why a motorcycle enthusiast will pursue this.
1.A beginner can start to learn more about the field by joining these events.
2.This is also a good venue to get to know the right people who can be of big help to each other.
It can't be denied that when motorcycle enthusiasts come together they can really go along well and understand each other.
3.Motorcycle events can also be a good opportunity to get good ideas from the other enthusiasts with regard to tips, suggestions and opinions.
4.It will definitely feel good to be able to ride your bike together with the other bike lovers. It is like coming together and expressing yourself together to the rest of the world in a rally, ride or event.
5.Finally, the sense of camaraderie is something that the motorcycle enthusiast will enjoy. There is so much to see, enjoy and be nostalgic about in these events.
How to Join the Motorcycle Events?
Given all these wonderful points of joining motorcycle events, it is a must for one to join the same.
First thing to do is to check out the local community for any organizations or associations formed by local motorcycle enthusiasts. There will surely be one, at least in every state.
You can easily talk to the members of these groups and inquire on how you can join in the scheduled events.
It is also possible to check on their schedule or calendar for the events they are organizing. You can ask for the requirements so you can easily join.
There are also some internet sites that can help you find an organization near your locality. These can also provide a calendar regarding some important events, especially those that will take place on the national level.
Conclusion
Take the first step and participate in the motorcycle events. A true bike lover will definitely enjoy thses events.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Motorcycle Clubs Unveiled
Because some popular movies and stories have made bike riders as one of the epitomes of evil and corruption, many people also look at motorcycle clubs as a group of goons and henchmen. In reality, however, most motorcycle club members are ordinary law-abiding citizens.
What is a motorcycle club?
An MC, short for motorcycle club, is basically an organization that is composed of people who are bikers or motorcycle enthusiasts. MCs are more like a brotherhood or a fraternity of people who share the love of motorcycles and another common interests, such as preference to a particular motorcycle brand, profession, locality, or love of nature or environment.
Organizational Structure
A typical MC is composed of officers and members. Big motorcycle organizations usually are subdivided in terms of localities, called as chapters. For example, a national MC organization could have a west coast and east coast chapters, or a Nevada, Texas and New York chapters.
Usually MCs have set of officers and follow strict rules. Officers of such clubs are commonly composed of president and vice president, treasurer, secretary, sergeant-at-arms, and road captains. Large MCs usually have a set of officers for the national and local chapters.
The size of a motorcycle club can vary from just a few people, probably five to ten, to hundreds and even thousands. Like fraternities or brotherhoods, membership to motorcycle clubs are usually exclusive and must be approved.
Common MC Objectives
Although there are many motorcycle clubs around the world, most MCs share common rules and objectives. The major concerns of such clubs are to have fun and ensure the safety of its members. Members of MC clubs often help and protect each other, helping in repairing bikes, sharing motoring tips and good routes to try, and even recommend hotels, restaurants and places to try.
Many MCs also don't forget their civic duty and raise money for several charities – from helping aids awareness to feeding homeless children. Since many military and police officers are members of MCs, many motorcycle clubs also offer support during calamities, accidents and disasters.
Benefits of being an MC member
Aside from a jacket with logo or emblem, new MC members can benefit from knowledge and experience of other members. Finding the best suppliers to great motorcycle routes are things that are bikers magnanimously shared with each other.
Motorcycle Boots Buying Basics
In order to improve safety and ease of riding, every biker must have a pair of reliable and dependable motorcycle boots. Wearing proper motorcycle gear, especially the boots, will make long journeys comfortable and safe.
Here are some tips that will help you find a good pair of motorcycle boots:
Boot material
Unlike driving shoes, motorcycle boots are exposed to several elements, such as mud, heat and water. Thus, it is important that you chose boots that are made of durable materials, such as leather and rubber soles. You can also opt for boots that are water resistant so that you won't be bothered by splashes of water when you are riding your bike.
Design
Motorcycle boots come in different colors and designs to fit your mood and lifestyle. However, it is wise to choose a design that's not only based on appearance, but also durability and safety features.
It is important to select a pair of boots that provide ankle coverage to not guard your ankles but also to help your feet handle different bike maneuvers, such as sliding, tipping over, etc. It's also advisable to look for boots with upper-part shell protection.
Aside from the upper design, you should also pay attention to the sole design. Ensure that the boots you are going to buy provide very good grip both while using the bike or for walking. Remember that your feet are exposed to oil, water and mud while on the road.
You should also pay particular attention to the foot design of your boots. Ensure that your motorcycle boots provide a good grip of you heel and ankle to prevent unnecessary accidents. Also look for a shifter pad, even if your bike has a heel shift. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Lastly, look for a design that doesn't have trimmings or laces that could get trapped on shift levers or other parts of the motorcycle.
Ventilation
Look for motorcycle boots that let your feet breathe. Just imagine how your feet might feel when they are next to the engine? High quality leather materials provide good ventilation.
The foot is one part of the body that carries all the weight and brunt of motorcycle riding. Thus, it is imperative that we buy a good pair of motorcycle boots that will help protect our feet.
Knowing What Makes Motorcycle Prices Zoom Up and Fall Down
Factors Affecting Motorcycle Price
Engine – The engine is arguably the most influential factor regarding motorcycle prices. Size, power, and type are properties of motorcycle engines that you should be most concerned. A bigger engine, for instance, may hamper your motorcycle’s speed. Power allows you to achieve greater performance but at greater risk to yourself because a powerful motorcycle is harder to control than one that’s designed for leisure driving only.
Level of Expertise – The level of expertise required to handle a particular motorcycle model also marginally affects motorcycle price. Expect motorcycles designed for the use of first-timers and beginners may be priced cheaper than those designed for experts and professionals. The reason behind this is simple: motorcycles for novices need fewer requirements to deliver customer satisfaction.
Type – The type of motorcycle you’re buying will also affect the price range that you’ll have to accommodate. There are various types of motorcycles on the market so you need to determine your purposes for buying a motorcycle before making any purchases.
Sports bikes are for speed junkies and look best when accessorized with lots of bling-blings; standard bikes on the other hand ensure that you reach work or home quickly but safely; motocross bikes are specifically designed for users fond of off-road travel; while cruiser bikes are the motorcycle industry’s version of show-type dogs like poodles and other toy dogs as opposed to those belonging to the sports or work classes.
Aesthetics and More – Lastly, the style and design of motorcycles also has an effect on its price. The materials used are just one of them. Expect motorcycle prices go up when additional modifications have been made such as the inclusion of an audio system and security alarms. Motorcycle prices which include insurance charges are naturally more expensive than those without although they may prove more affordable in the long run.
Brand name is definitely a factor since the motorcycle industry has its own hierarchy and in which names like Duchatti and Harley Davidson reign supreme.
Now that you know all the factors affecting motorcycle prices, the only step left to take is determining which factors are most important for you and which motorcycle models are capable of meeting your expectations. Have fun with your big bike!
How to Ride a Motorcycle
Perhaps one most important things that a rider should learn is turning the head. You need to turn your head when you pull out to a road or when you change lanes in order to see what is behind and beside you. You don't have a rear view mirror when riding a motorcycle and thus this habit could be a life-saving one.
Once you have the engine started and the motorcycle is in neutral, you need to pull the clutch in using your left hand and then click the gear onto the first gear. Slowly release the clutch and gently wind the gas throttle in your direction, this is just enough to prevent stalling. Now you need to wind your throttle a little bit more and then soon enough the bike will start moving.
Now you need to know how to stop. Pull in the clutch while gently pushing your throttle away from you, and then pull the brake in with your right fingers. Keep on practicing moving and stopping so that you will be in control of the motorcycle. Just remember to grip the bike’s fuel tank using your knees to secure yourself during the ride, and keep your body relaxed.
Practice until you feel that you are confident enough to increase the motorcycle’s speed and use higher gears. During the ride, keep your head upright so that you are aware of what is happening around you. Don't keep on looking at the handles because they will distract you from seeing what is ahead.
When you are braking, it is important to apply more stress to the brake in the front than the one in the back. The rear brake mainly assists the front brake. The stopping power is really at the front. You might need extra assistance from the rear break during wet weather, though.
It is actually really simple to ride a bike. The most important thing if for you to combine all the principles together in a very harmonized manner while keeping yourself upright and being attentive to your environment.
How to Make Your Motorcyle Roar to Life
How to Operate a Motorcycle
Although there may be a slight variation in the operation of different types of motorcycles, the basics are pretty much the same.
After getting on a motorcycle, switch the ignition on by turning the key decisively.
If your motorcycle has a fuel petcock, you’d have to turn this on next. Expand the choke, and make sure that all other necessary switches are set to ON or RUN. Just like a car, the initial gear of the motorcycle must be set to NEUTRAL unless you wish it to run away under your very nose.
Allow the motorcycle’s engine to warm up before hitting the road.
How to Shift Gears When Riding a Motorcycle
Novice car drivers often have a hard time coordinating their hands and feet whenever they need to shift gears in a manual car. Expect the same difficulty with motorcycles as well. Although reading the following tips will help you understand the fundamental steps in shifting gears, it’s still better that you practice under the supervision of a professional.
Start in first gear. The sound of your motorcycle’s engine and the speed you’re using will let you know when it’s time to shift gears. To go to second gear, exert moderate pressure on the clutch while reducing the pressure on the throttle. At the same time, use your foot to hit the gear shifter.
Repeat the same steps to go to the next gears.
Other Tips for Learning How to Get a Motorcycle to Work
Maintaining your balance is the key to handling motorcycles and showing these monstrous rides who’s really wearing the pants! If you have a hard time keeping your balance, start by practicing holding your balance while riding a bike.
Fear of motorcycles is ordinary and even preferable because this means you acknowledge its power and consequently, you’ll become more aware of the dangers you’ll be facing if you don’t observe proper and safety tips and guidelines. What’s not advisable however is to let that fear rule your mind!
If you’re riding a motorcycle, you shouldn't let anything ruin your concentration. Focus on the road and your ride because you can easily injure yourself when your attention is elsewhere.