Category: Motorcycle

The Role of Ergonomics and Bike Fit in Bike Touring

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Proper ergonomics on your bike can significantly lessen discomfort for both yourself and your ride partner by better dispersion of opposing forces, eliminating uncomfortable pressure points which may lead to injury.

The Bike

Finding a bike that perfectly fits you is the key to minimizing discomfort on the bike. Achieved through proper bike fitting techniques, an optimal bike fit reduces cycling injuries while increasing comfort, efficiency, performance and enjoyment levels.

Bike ergonomics also depend on proper posture and pedaling technique. Riding with straight back, relaxed shoulders, and slightly bent elbows will help evenly distribute weight on the frame while relieving joint stress and muscle strain.

Study conducted to compare the effects of standardised bike fitting on pain, fatigue and perceived exertion in healthy mountain bikers showed all measures improved after adjustment was performed. Contact points at saddle contact points (saddle contact points, neck contact points and back) experienced significantly decreased discomfort levels while perceived exertion levels on Borg scale decreased following bike fitting sessions.

The Gear

Setting up your bike properly with the appropriate gear and setup is key to avoiding cycling injuries on long rides, particularly vibration-reducing techniques or improving posture adjustments that make a difference in both hands or posture. Even minor adjustments can have big effects.

An effective seating position is critical for an enjoyable ride. Achieved through keeping hips centered and shoulders anchored while keeping elbows slightly bent can help evenly distribute weight over your body.

Studies utilizing a whole-body kinematic approach to evaluate riding posture have revealed that an improper saddle height leads to poor power transmission, increased knee flexion, and greater pressure on buttocks and lower leg muscles. Conversely, too-low saddles cause excessive wrist flexion as well as less-than-ideal shifts of torso forward pressure center; optimal joint angular ranges found by these studies could serve as guides for mountain bike ergonomic adjustment for improved comfort and fatigue reduction.

The Rider

Position and posture play an integral part in how enjoyable and safe a ride is, and in terms of injury risk. A few simple adjustments to saddle, handlebars and pedals can reduce discomfort, maximize efficiency and create an experience like never before on two wheels.

Adjusting the seat height correctly is of vital importance in terms of both comfort and safety. Too high will tilt your pelvis during pedal stroke; too low will put too much strain on muscles.

Make sure to pay special attention to your elbow alignment. Riding with bent elbows will allow for greater blood flow to your hands and fingers, providing better blood supply to both.

The Environment

Straight backs, relaxed shoulders and slightly bent elbows are characteristic of healthy cycling posture. This helps distribute bodyweight more evenly. Riding with sore hands may be due to poor hand positioning on handlebars preventing blood circulation or flow.

Results of this study indicate that riders’ subjective levels of discomfort, fatigue and knee pain remain lower after attending a standardised bike fitting session than before the session began. Improvement was most notable on FEEL and OMNI scales, with knee pain having the highest effect size (d=0.86).

Bikepacking can be an exciting adventure or sustainable travel, depending on what motivates you, so the key to successful bikepacking is packing light with appropriate gear – this means efficiently packing as well as being equipped with tools for quick adjustments like multi-tools. Packing light will keep your journey enjoyable while staying comfortable throughout.

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Long-Distance Motorcycle Riding – Health and Safety Considerations

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Long distance motorcycle riding provides an unforgettable experience that many riders appreciate. But it requires taking a different approach than shorter rides to successfully enjoy it.

Consider these essential tips to make your next long-distance ride safe and enjoyable:

Wear the Right Gear

Traveling long distances requires the use of special gear, and selecting appropriate apparel will make your ride both more enjoyable and safe. A quality helmet, gloves, boots and leather pants should provide ample protection from the elements; additionally, consider investing in a full-face helmet which reduces risks of serious head injury.

Important equipment includes a bungee cord or netting to secure your motorcycle, first aid kits, water, hidden spare keys from thieves, basic tools, emergency contact info maps and covers for their bike as well as bike covers. Some riders may choose to take along camping supplies along with them on their journeys.

Prior to setting out on any long-distance ride, it is highly advised that you conduct a complete inspection of your motorcycle. A longer trip places extra stress on any parts needing replacement; so if any are identified quickly it is wise to address them as soon as possible. Furthermore, have your suspension and tire pressure checked regularly as well.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated when riding long distance motorcycles is crucial to safety. Dehydration will significantly decrease concentration and response speed, potentially leading to heat stroke which could prove fatal without immediate treatment.

At the start of each ride, it is best to drink at least two large glasses of water to help hydrate your body and avoid needing pee breaks early on, which could disrupt focus or lead to overhydration.

As you travel, keep track of how much water you consume and the frequency with which you need to stop for pee. If your thirst increases significantly or urine turns dark yellow, that could be a telltale sign of dehydration; should this result in control issues with your motorbike, it would be prudent to seek medical help immediately.

Be Mindful of Traffic

Long distance rides can become tedious, so you should take extra care not to become disengaged from the task at hand and lose focus. Otherwise, it can be easy to miss that truck which could cut you off or an intersection where you must turn.

Motorcycle riders may not be as visible, so make sure your headlight is working and that your clothing stands out against its surroundings. Consider adding reflective strips or decals to both your bike and clothing for increased visibility at night. This increases the odds that other motorists will notice you.

Plan your journey well in advance to ensure there will be plenty of places to stop for fuel, food, stretching and restroom breaks. Knowing how far your full tank can travel will also help determine how many stops should be scheduled each day to avoid running out of gas unexpectedly.

Keep Your Passengers Safe

If you plan to bring along passengers for long rides, they should be equipped with appropriate gear such as helmets (Kansas and Missouri law require all riders to wear one). Passengers also must understand how they should position themselves when the bike makes turns so that their position doesn’t throw off its balance.

Passengers must keep both feet on the passenger foot pegs at all times, even when stopped, in order to maintain balance on the motorcycle and prevent it from lurching forward unexpectedly. Passengers should also be able to communicate with their rider through hand signals or shoulder taps.

Riding with someone or a group who have different riding styles can cause tension and arguments during long trips, so make sure your friends know which type of riders each of you is and where your preferred breaks should be taken.

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Advanced Electronics in Superbikes

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Motorcycles also contain modern electronics designed to increase performance and safety, though some purists believe these aids take away from the excitement of racing.

At race weekends, engineers use data gathered on competing bikes to refine electronic settings to enhance performance – such as launch control to prevent wheelies and traction control to limit wheelspin.

GSX-R1000R

The Gixxer offers more rider aids than Honda or Yamaha bikes, such as traction control and wheelie control to softly mitigate hard acceleration; and lean-sensitive cornering ABS which works great on the street but occasionally interferes with heavy braking on track.

The twin-spar aluminum frame was developed using FEM analysis in order to target strength where needed, reduce weight and have more compact dimensions and an extended wheelbase for improved chassis stability.

The DOHC, inline four engine is smooth and powerful across a broad rpm range, while its compact chassis delivers agile handling with outstanding suspension feel that can tackle racetracks or country roads alike. Add advanced electronics like an IMU, adjustable traction control system and the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, Motion Track Anti-lock Brake and Launch Control systems and it becomes one of the best-value superbikes on the market.

BMW S1000RR

BMW’s S1000RR has been an incredible weapon against Japanese Superbike manufacturers since it first hit the market in 2010. Boasting all of the electronics available and an extraordinary motor, its first generation was released onto the market in 2010. But its second incarnation came even stronger: with 2023 model even better; featuring 207bhp inline four that revs to redline with an intensity rivaled only by few rivals and electronics that control it smoothly forwards at high speed despite slipperiness rear tyres.

One key element is its light steering, ease of changing trajectory in corners, and amazing stability at high speed. All those power and electronics wouldn’t mean much if riding fast wasn’t easy – and that it is. The RR boasts the best steering feel of any Superbike while its Marzocchi forks and monoshock are plush on road rides while providing controllable performance on track; plus race-grade brakes deliver power and feel without ABS mush through its lever.

Aprilia RSV4

As is typical for Japanese bikes, the Aprilia RSV4 features an advanced set of electronics. For 2021 models it comes equipped with a six-axis IMU, larger screen and more intuitive interface; you can quickly toggle between Road and Race ride modes using buttons on either handlebar; adjust engine braking control settings as well as change ride modes by pressing one more. There is also cruise control, quickshifter functionality, pit lane limiter capability as well as cornering lights – something many other bike models cannot compete with.

The RSV4 APRC SE model boasts an electronic launch control system to make taking off easier from a dead stop less skill-based. While some may view this technology as unnecessary, Aprilia Racing Division managed to use such technology effectively on the RSV4, further adding to its popularity among racetrack riders while providing flexibility enough for use on public roads – an impressive feat considering its 217 HP V-4.

Honda CBR1000RR

Honda’s CBR1000RR (or Blade), as it’s affectionately known, demonstrates their unrivaled understanding of how to balance outright circuit performance with real-world usability. Eye-boggling acceleration, silky-smooth gear shifting and state-of-the-art suspension ensure an unparalleled ride that makes every rider feel like an experienced pro.

All thanks to a revised throttle-by-wire system that helps smooth initial throttle response and Honda Selectable Torque Control/ABS. Ohlins Smart EC electronic suspension and Brembo front calipers help create this Honda’s best balanced sportbike, whether on street riding or the track.

The RR’s full-color TFT liquid-crystal instrument panel offers various display modes tailored to individual riders’ riding styles and preferences, such as Street, Circuit and Mechanic modes. Mechanic provides more in-depth data such as grip angle, power level and engine-braking levels; ride-by-wire system features five-axis inertial measurement unit gyros for precise positioning as well as personalized handling characteristics tailored specifically for their riding style and preference.

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Motorcycle Safety 101 – Gear Training and Riding Techniques

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At first glance, riding a motorcycle may offer unparalleled freedom; however, its inherent risks must also be taken into consideration. Obeying traffic regulations, adjusting mirrors properly and wearing quality gear are all ways you can reduce the chances of serious injury or worse.

One key to avoiding collisions is consistently driving at 70 percent of your skill level, providing enough of a cushion against unexpected road conditions or other drivers who suddenly slow or stop.

Braking

Braking is an art motorbike riders must master. Each brake serves a different role when stopping the bike, and using both in concert can reduce stopping distances significantly. Engine braking – in which throttle is reduced gradually before gears gradually lower to bring about stopping distance – also plays an important role. When used effectively it reduces dependence on brakes while simultaneously improving safety.

Every rider should conduct a T-CLOCS inspection prior to every ride, inspecting their bike and its accessories to make sure everything is functioning optimally. If something seems amiss, take the time to resolve it before hitting the road.

Driving defensively is another effective way to increase motorcycle safety. This involves anticipating the actions of other drivers and keeping a safe distance between yourself and cars, checking blind spots before passing them and regularly using turn signals so other motorists can see you.

Steering

Motorcycles on the road makes them easy for other drivers to ignore or underestimate them, leading them to miss them when changing lanes, turning right, or merging into traffic. Riders should practice defensive driving techniques to minimize this risk.

To avoid this hazard, riders should keep their eyes focused on the road ahead and always look where they wish to travel – this helps avoid “target fixation,” in which riders become distracted by an obstacle and unwittingly steer towards it.

Riders must also keep a safe distance between themselves and other vehicles, particularly large trucks and semi-trucks that create significant turbulence that could prove hazardous for motorcyclists. For this reason, riders are recommended to remain three to four seconds behind trucks so as to have enough time if the truck suddenly stops or turns without impacting them too severely. Riders should make themselves visible to other drivers by not riding between other vehicles and always keeping their headlights illuminated.

Turning

Poor turn technique is one of the primary contributors to motorcycle crashes. While learning this essential skill may be frustrating for new riders, it remains one of the key ones needed as a motorcyclist.

Experienced riders should attend a basic riding course before venturing off on their own. Such courses provide valuable lessons on how to master your motorcycle and handle its power in any situation on the road.

Keep an eye on the conditions of the road you’re riding on as well, checking mirrors and keeping an eye out for any traffic that might present hazards – this may involve as simple a task as making sure a car in front of you doesn’t suddenly slow or accelerate dangerously; giving yourself enough space and time for responding should an unexpected incident arise.

Acceleration

As a motorcyclist, it is wise to be prepared for anything that might go amis. While a deer darting into your path might be one example, other drivers’ reckless moves may also cause major problems for riders.

Common errors for drivers include forgetting to check their mirrors prior to diving into traffic to change lanes – an oversight which could prove fatal.

As your primary defense against this situation, the key is creating an escape route. Even something as simple as being able to swerve into Mrs. Smith’s front yard should you need one is enough of a defense mechanism against center punchers like that Buick. To help yourself do this, create a habit of scanning both sides of the roadway at all times when driving – this allows you to detect suspicious movements by other drivers more effectively and react in accordance with them accordingly.

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Uninsured Motorist Coverage – Why It’s Essential for Protecting Yourself on the Road

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Uninsured motorist coverage (UM), also known as UIM coverage, provides payment for medical bills, pain and suffering claims, lost wages and damage to your car if hit by someone who doesn’t carry enough insurance or has only minimum required coverage. It can even cover accidents involving hit-and-run drivers.

1. It’s Required by Law

Nearly every state mandates motorists carry at least minimum liability insurance. Unfortunately, however, one out of eight drivers remain uninsured according to the Insurance Research Council – leaving you exposed if an uninsured driver causes an accident and leaves medical costs or repairs out of pocket.

Why get Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM) Coverage? In other words, uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage offers protection in case of an accident with someone without car or liability insurance, or someone who doesn’t carry enough coverage for your damages. Some states offer lost wage compensation as part of the benefits package while car repairs could also be covered depending on state specific legislation if an at-fault driver didn’t carry enough liability coverage to pay your costs; costs vary per state so it would be best suited speaking with an UM lawyer from New York City about available solutions before making any final decisions regarding coverage options and available protection options available to you before making your decisions regarding potential options that exist in terms of cost savings when choosing between options available from such policies available options available from various states!

2. It Can Save You Money

In states that allow tort liability, you have the ability to recover damages from those at fault in your accident. Unfortunately, they may either lack insurance altogether or only carry minimum coverage that won’t cover all your expenses.

With uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM), you can file a claim against an uninsured motorist responsible for an accident and get medical costs, lost wages and pain and suffering covered. Most policies provide coverage for both you and your passengers while some also include property damage protection.

If you want to get the most out of UM coverage, choose limits that correspond with your liability coverage. If you own multiple vehicles on your policy, consider stacking UM coverage on each one; your insurance agent can advise on available options and may even allow it to be added onto existing policies for an affordable additional cost – saving both time and hassle when applying for new policies!

3. It Can Help You Recover from an Accident

Uninsured motorist coverage provides compensation in the event that you are injured by a driver without insurance, who does not carry their own policies. While required in some states and available as an option in others, having this protection ensures you do not incur expensive medical bills and repairs from out of pocket expenses.

If the other driver lacks insurance altogether or only possesses minimal coverage, your own insurer will step in to cover costs – they then attempt to recover these from them through subrogation.

Always opt for uninsured motorist coverage when purchasing car insurance, as it is both affordable and provides peace of mind should an accident with an uninsured driver occur. When speaking with your agent about this option, discuss options regarding coverage amounts such as $5,000 increments so that your family is best protected in case an uninsured driver collides with them.

4. It’s a Good Idea for Everyone

Uninsured motorist coverage can be invaluable for drivers. It can help cover medical costs and other expenses should an accident happen where another party doesn’t carry car insurance or has low limits that won’t cover everything that might arise, saving both time and money on medical bills and expenses in such an instance.

Insurance policies can help pay for vehicle repairs or expenses caused by uninsured drivers if they hit your car, so choosing higher policy limits than what is legally mandated can provide greater peace of mind and protection.

Some states mandate uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM), while others offer it as an optional or part of their basic car insurance coverage. No matter where you reside, it would be prudent to add this form of protection into your policy; most will consider it worth their while as the average claim payout for UM/UIM stands at $35,546, giving plenty of cash that could help pay hospital bills, car repair or any expenses following an accident with an uninsured driver.

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The Rise of Autonomous Motorcycle Riding

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While self-driving cars have made headlines, their technology promises to revolutionize motorcycle riding as well. BMW has already developed an automated system which enables bikes to steer, accelerate and brake themselves – something other companies such as Harley-Davidson still cannot achieve.

Honda recently filed for a patent on similar technology for motorcycles. Their goal is to reduce human error as one cause of car-motorcycle accidents.

How it Works

As car makers have developed driverless cars that are becoming increasingly popular, motorcyclists are also searching for ways to automate their bikes in order to make riding more enjoyable while decreasing some of the risks involved with riding.

But unlike drivers of traditional vehicles, who may take their eyes off the road briefly to check their phone or switch stations on the radio station, autonomous motorcycles only focus on safe driving reducing accident risks significantly on our roads.

Yamaha recently unveiled an early prototype of their autonomous bike called Motobot. The humanoid robot looks straight out of George Lucas’ 1971 dystopia film THX 1138! Yamaha hopes Motobot will help improve the performance of their own motorcycles as well as serve as an invaluable training tool for autonomous cars learning how to interact with motorcycles; for instance, by matching speeds with one and learning when and how to stop when in front of one.

Safety

Similar to how self-driving cars have generated considerable debate and opposition, the concept of an autonomous motorcycle has caused both doubt and debate. But unlike with cars where you are protected by nearly two tons of steel impact-absorbing panels, you are exposed to elements and other road users when riding your motorbike.

That is why BMW has prioritized technology that enhances rider safety. For instance, its Hypersport motorcycle employs GPS, solid-state gyroscopes and accelerometers to track its location relative to other vehicles and objects; 4G wireless transmission of this data enables Damon’s servers to refine his system further.

These details can also be shared among riders on the road, acting as virtual mirrors for one another. This should make it easier for drivers to spot bikes on the road and possibly help prevent collisions – although it won’t eliminate every potential risk from the road.

Controls

Most people envision autonomous vehicles with four wheels driving themselves through city streets; however, soon this technology may also be available on two wheels.

BMW Motorrad recently unveiled a video showing an autonomous motorcycle riding around an unattended test track, starting from a stop, leaning into turns, and breaking on its own.

Self-driving technology may be the only solution to encourage more riders to hit the roads, as car drivers pose a huge threat to cyclists 32% of accidents between cars and bikes involve one driver changing lanes suddenly in front of another cyclist, which puts both at risk.

Full automation for motorcycles would require extreme caution; sudden application of brakes could send riders careening off into traffic. Adopting ADAS features to motorcycles has proven difficult; however, Honda has demonstrated how they could be implemented using radar systems and self-balancing technologies to create an ADAS concept model.

Entertainment

Technology that promises to make self-driving cars more reliable may also enhance motorcycle riding experiences, helping combat sales losses that many manufacturers are currently grappling with.

Autonomous systems will also be useful to assist riders in avoiding common accidents. Motorcycle riders are killed at 28 times the rate of those driving cars and most fatal motorcycle accidents are caused by drivers turning left in front of a bike without seeing it or misjudging its speed.

Yamaha’s Motoroid concept bike incorporates several features to address this issue, such as facial recognition and gesture-recognition capabilities that allow it to only respond to its owner, and gesture recognition capabilities that let the machine understand beckoning waves or raised palms as instructions to move forward or stop moving. Although such features remain unintegrated with mechanical controls for now, they could eventually provide more intuitive ways of controlling your motorcycle.

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Best Bike Routes in the Country

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If you love biking, you need to check out these amazing bike routes! From paved bike paths to winding mountain roads, these trails are perfect for any cyclist.

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1. New York State Canal Path

The 750-mile Empire State Trail is New York’s largest multiuse state trail system. Bike enthusiasts of all ages and abilities can enjoy this pristine, off road trail, which closely parallels active and historic sections of the Erie Canalway.

This spectacular route is dotted with charming canalside towns that tell the rich and sometimes strange history of America’s westward expansion. Dozens of art galleries, restaurants and shops are within easy reach.

The Erie Canalway Trail is a great choice for a long day ride or weekend adventure, with many communities offering nearby parking and attractions. Whether starting at one of the trail’s many access points or at the trailhead in downtown Albany, cyclists can explore the Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct, Sims Store, Rome and other historic sites, and then make their way to Syracuse, where they can visit the Camillus Erie Canal Park and Fort Stanwix National Monument. The path is primarily surfaced in stone dust, but some segments are asphalt paved.

2. Lake Monona Loop

With paved paths and neighborhoods to explore, the Lake Monona Loop is a great choice for bikers of any age and experience level. You can burn a lot of calories and take in some unbeatable lake views on this 13-mile circuit through both Madison and Monona, as well as snap skyline photos from several parks along the way.

You’ll also see some of Dane County’s prettiest farmland and visit the enclave of Paoli. There’s a natural stop along the way at Monona Bait and Ice Cream Shop, which has encouraged many young bikers to keep going when 13 miles starts to feel long.

Join in on the fun of this family-friendly ride by registering for the 10th Annual Loop the Lake Bike Ride, happening Saturday, June 18. The registration fee includes a super soft t-shirt, compliments of Lands’ End and a day-of beverage. All participants are encouraged to adhere to local and state requirements for social distancing and healthy behavior on public roads or paths.

3. Great River Greenway

Great Rivers Greenway is a regional network of greenways and trails for walking, running, biking, inline skating and wheeling. The region’s parks, rivers, cultural landmarks and communities are connected by these paved destination trails.

The organization is working to deliver on the vision created by a vote of the people in 2000 to leave a legacy for future generations and to reconnect residents with the primary natural feature that resulted in St. Louis’ founding—the Mississippi River.

The organization has completed more than 130 miles of greenways in three counties and another 240+ miles are being planned. The organization is also launching neighborhood systems of greenways that connect with each other and with the larger regional system. Families can enjoy the region’s greenways with two kid-friendly adventure maps. The St Vincent Greenway Adventure Map includes activities and material related to urban watersheds, bird ecology and sensory activities and the River des Peres Greenway Adventure Map includes place based learning about plantings and historic buildings and the river’s history since its creation during the Ice Age.

4. Erie Canal Towpath

The Erie Canal Towpath is the country’s most popular long-distance biking trail. It runs 360 miles from Buffalo to Albany with a network of dedicated paths, local park trails, some city streets and under 50 miles of state road shoulders. It covers virtually every kind of terrain Western and Upstate New York has to offer.

It passes through wooded environments and urban neighborhoods, with scenic natural beauty as well as historic and cultural landmarks. During the ride, you can get an up-close look at rivers and border farm fields, cross enormous highway bridges, or ride through downtown Cleveland.

There are stretches of the Towpath where you’re in the wilderness, but most of it offers easy access to restaurants, hotels and other accommodations. The section through Navarre hugs the Tuscarawas River with options including a diner, pizza and fajita restaurant, a craft brew joint and a pub.

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Highlight the Essential Accessories That Every Motorcyclist Should Have

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Embarking on long motorcycle rides becomes easier with a variety of accessories that prioritize rider safety. From riding gloves to GPS navigation systems, these accessories enhance rider comfort and safety.

Motorcycles take up less of a driver’s field of vision, making them easy to miss in blind spots. Shield yourself from accidents by installing a windshield that matches your bike and height preference.

1. Helmet

A helmet is the most important piece of equipment that every motorcyclist should wear. It protects against severe and life-threatening head injuries.

Each type of helmet is designed to protect against the type of impact common to its activity or sport. Make sure your helmet fits correctly. It should be snug but not uncomfortable. It should sit evenly on your head (not tilted back or pulled low over your forehead). It shouldn’t move side-to-side or front to back.

Even if your helmet looks fine, it may have suffered damage in a crash that you weren’t aware of. It is a good idea to replace it periodically.

2. Mirrors

Mirrors provide a panoramic view of the road, helping riders assess their surroundings and make informed decisions. They also play an important role during traffic congestion or when lane splitting, as they help motorists determine how much space they have to safely fit between vehicles.

The importance of these small accessories cannot be overstated. In the absence of them, riders would have to constantly turn their heads and risk losing balance in the process. This can easily lead to accidents, especially at high speeds.

Mirrors are mounted either to the handlebars or the front fairing. The ideal ones are adjustable, allowing you to see the entire lane behind you without having to strain your neck.

3. Tools

While motorcycles are far safer and more reliable than ever before, there’s still a long list of things that can go wrong. Having a well-stocked tool kit to fix things quickly on the road can be an absolute lifesaver.

A good set of screwdrivers – get one with changeable bits, plus a few different sizes of Allen keys (recessed ones are best for recessed bolts). Also a pair of pliers that can hold, tighten, straighten and cut wires.

A can of cable lube – this might seem odd to include, but it’s worth having to keep the clutch cables in tip-top condition. You can spritz it into the end of each cable to keep it running smoothly.

4. Phone Mount

A phone mount is a must for any rider looking to keep their hands on the handlebars. A phone mounted to your bike can provide turn-by-turn directions and notify you of incoming calls and text messages.

A quality mount will also help protect your smartphone from vibration damage. The vibrations created by a moving motorcycle can cause damage to the internal components of your phone, particularly the camera.

RAM mounts is one of the first companies to make a phone mount that real riders can trust. Their spring-loaded X-Grip cradle expands and contracts to securely hold any device. It comes with a variety of mounts for your handlebars, fork stem, or mirror stem and includes a tether to prevent accidental removal.

5. Bluetooth Headsets

A Bluetooth helmet headset will make your ride a lot more fun and safer. It will let you communicate with other riders and listen to music without having to take your hands off the handlebars.

You can also use these helmet communicators for a variety of other purposes such as commuting or hiking. The best ones offer a daisy chain method for rider-to-rider communication and a dynamic mesh grid for 15-20 riders to effectively talk over long stretches of road.

For the best value, get a helmet with integrated Bluetooth headset like the Sena Stryker. It will save you the expense of buying a separate helmet and add-on communications unit.

6. Riding Gloves

Aside from mitigating hand numbness and sweat, gloves improve the grip on the handlebar, thus, making riding more comfortable. Gloves also protect riders from road, track, or trail hazards that might cause injury to their hands.

When a rider falls, it’s instinctual to put out their hands to break the fall and protect more important parts of their body. However, a rider’s skin is vulnerable to these unexpected impacts.

The attorneys of Johnson and Gilbert want all motorcyclists to be as safe as possible when they hit the road. Riding gloves are one of the most important safety features to consider when buying a new motorcycle.

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How to Attract Customers to Your Motorcycle Parts Shop

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There are several ways to attract customers to your motorcycle parts shop. One of the most popular methods is to use dropshipping, which does not require you to own any motorcycle parts. Instead, you will sell motorcycle aftermarket parts through a third-party eCommerce site. All you need to do is set up an account with the supplier, get a link, and let them do the rest. It is that simple! Here are some other ways to attract customers to your motorcycle parts shop:

First, decide on your niche. Depending on your area, you may have a hard time attracting customers if your products are not in demand. If your niche market is Harley-Davidson, for example, you may have too much competition. On the other hand, if you plan to focus on pocket-rockets, you may have more room for growth. In either case, you need to acquire a business license and obtain a special permit if you plan to handle hazardous substances.

A bike chain is one of the most important parts on your motorcycle. It is essential to check the chain for slackness. Check it regularly to ensure that it is clean and oiled. The belts and drive shafts are also important parts of your motorcycle. Investing in new parts is an investment in safety. You should also have an annual mechanical checkup for your bike. These will increase its lifespan and safety. And of course, your bike chain can’t function efficiently without a proper oil supply.

Changing the tires is another way to add to the safety features of your motorcycle. While there are various styles of tires, if you ride off-road or on the street, you can get dual-sport tires. These tires are rounded so they won’t cause vibrations on paved surfaces. Motorcycle seats vary based on the type of bike, but are a necessary part for your motorcycle. You can add padding to the seat if you intend to ride for long hours. You can also install extra storage space for your pillion.

If you want to avoid paying premium prices for genuine OEM motorcycle parts, consider buying used motorcycle parts. These parts may have been salvaged from an accident, but they won’t be as high-quality as new OEM parts. Used motorcycle parts are usually cheaper and widely available, but they’re often of lower quality. However, if you’re creative and find a good way to re-sell used motorcycle parts, they could be a great source of income for you.

The engine is the heart of any motorcycle. The size of the engine is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). The bigger the cylinder, the heavier the motorcycle. Higher cc engines require more power to keep running. In addition to the engine, motorcycles have other components, including the frame, front fork, fuel tank, and exhaust/pipes. When you want to change the performance of these parts, you can make them more powerful or less powerful.

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Safety Tips For Riding a Motorcycle

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When driving a motorcycle, it is important to take some basic safety precautions. First of all, it is vital to wear eye protection, especially sunglasses. Riding a motorcycle requires a lot of concentration, and you should take the time to learn how to handle the bike before taking it out. It also helps to know how to use the controls. A course can help you become familiar with the controls and proper technique for riding a motorcycle. This way, you can enjoy safe riding.

The engine must have adequate oil and lubricants to function properly. When there is no oil or lubricant in the fuel system, friction will cause the engine to seize. Check the fluid level in the engine reservoirs and keep the engine running smoothly. While stopping, make sure to use your mirrors to avoid letting your passenger get surprised or injured. You should also try not to “paint up” while you’re riding. This is a dangerous practice.

When traveling with others, it is important to be aware of other riders. This is especially true in case of motorcycles. When riding with a group, always position yourself away from traffic lanes and be aware of any sudden changes in speed. In addition, you should be careful when setting the kickstand on soft surfaces and sloped shoulders. One of the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents is speeding. Massachusetts has strict speed limits and stiff penalties for violating them. Under the fundamental speed law, a motor vehicle should never travel faster than is reasonable for conditions, especially if that risk is to other people.

Intersections pose a special danger to motorcycle riders. Choosing a lane position that provides maximum visibility is important. When approaching an intersection, assume that vehicles are going to enter your path of travel. It is also important to be alert for vehicles turning ahead. If you don’t see another vehicle, slow down and pass cautiously. It is also necessary to adjust the cycle speed and avoid exceeding the limit. A well-maintained bike will allow you to negotiate turns without losing control and prevent any collisions from happening.

Before passing another vehicle, position your cycle in the middle of the travel lane. This will prevent you from being side-swiped or struck by road objects. It will also protect you from wind shear and wind gusts, which can change the stability of the cycle. While riding with a group, it is vital to be aware of other drivers and avoid crashing into them. If you do, slow down and signal your intentions and be safe.

It is also important to note that motorcycles were not always designed with engines of equal capacity. In fact, there was no legal limit to how many people could ride at the same time. The Honda Super Cub was the world’s best selling motorcycle at the time, but there was no standard engine for the bike. Fortunately, this was not the case for the rest of the century. The Super Cub was one of the first motorcycles to use an internal combustion engine.

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