Archive for the ‘Motorcycle advocacy’ Category

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others.

Also, this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E088000

Manufacturer Bell Sports, Inc.

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Bell Sports Inc (Bell) is recalling certain Scout Air helmets, sizes S and L. The helmets may lack proper penetration protection. As such, these helmets fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 218, “Motorcycle Helmets.”

Remedy Bell will replace the helmet or reimburse owners as necessary, free of charge. Owners may contact Bell’s customer service at 1-800-216-9446.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V873000

Manufacturer Suzuki Motor USA, LLC

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2025-2026 DR-Z400S and 2025 DR-Z400SM motorcycles. The reservoir tank cap fixing screws may have been incorrectly tightened, allowing brake fluid to leak. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 122, “Motorcycle Brake Systems.”

Remedy Dealers will tighten the screws, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 9, 2026. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 20, 2025.

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others.

Also, this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V798000

Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (Kawasaki) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Ninja ZX-6R, ZX-6R KRT Edition, ZX-6R KRT 40th Anniversary Edition ABS, ZX-6R ABS, and ZX-6R KRT Edition ABS motorcycles. The motorcycles may lose engine power during operation due to seizure of a metal crankshaft bushing.

Remedy Owners are advised not to ride their motorcycles until the repair has been completed. The remedy is currently under development. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Motorcycles in this recall that were previously repaired under recall 25V376 will need to have the new remedy performed, once available. Owners may contact Kawasaki customer service at (855) 878-4217.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V778000

Manufacturer Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Yamaha Motor Company, Ltd. (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2018-2022 XMAX scooters. The camshaft retainer bolt may loosen and not properly secure the camshaft, resulting in an engine stall.

Remedy Owners are advised not to ride their scooter until the remedy has been completed. Dealers will install a new camshaft plate kit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 20, 2025. Owners may contact Yamaha’s customer service at 1-800-962-7926. Yamaha’s number for this recall is 990184. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 24, 2025.

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RIDE ON, RIDE SAFE

bob evens farm rio grande oh
ijustwant2ride,com

There’s a certain magic in rolling up to a spot where history and homestyle cooking collide. That’s the real “ride to eat” jackpot. This time, our handlebars pointed toward Rio Grande, Ohio—ground zero for Bob Evans sausage, biscuits, and gravy. If you’ve ever wondered where the legend began, this is it, the original Bob Evans Farm, serving up comfort since 1962.

Location: State Route 588, Rio Grande, Ohio

Rolling into the farm, you know right away this isn’t your average pit stop. The Evans Homestead still stands tall—a throwback to the days of stagecoaches and home-cooked meals. Bob Evans himself lived here with Jewell and their six kids, and you can almost picture the family waving from the porch as you rumble past.

It was in this front yard that Evans opened The Sausage Shop, serving up the farm-fresh sausage that truckers and travelers couldn’t get enough of. That roadside stop became the foundation for what would grow into a nationwide chain.

There’s even a Bob Evans Restaurant museum and homestead tours—though thanks to post-covid changes, you’ll have to time your visit with the annual Bob Evans Farm Festival if you want the full experience. Otherwise, you’ll just have to settle for a plate of biscuits and a peek at history from the parking.

The Food:

We’ve hit plenty of Bob Evans joints on our travels, and this one’s no different when it comes to the grub—good food, fair prices, and décor that says “classic Bob Evans” rather than “Instagram influencer.” But let’s be honest, you’re here for the story as much as the sausage.

Overall Thoughts: A nice visit to where it all began.

For a rider, the trip is worth it not just for the food but for the connection to history. Sitting down to a plate of biscuits and gravy at the farm feels different than ordering the same meal at a Bob Evans off the interstate. Here, you’re eating where it all began, where the sausage was first made, and where the idea of farm-to-table wasn’t a marketing slogan—it was just daily life.

The ride in? Pure Ohio—rolling hills, winding roads, and enough scenery to make you forget about your GPS. By the time you roll into Rio Grande, you’ll be ready for breakfast that sticks to your ribs. That first bite isn’t just food, it’s a taste of tradition.

So, if you’re looking for a ride that combines history, heritage, and homestyle cooking, point your bike toward Rio Grande. The Bob Evans Farm isn’t just the first restaurant—it’s the heart of a story that grew from one man’s farm into a national tradition. And like any good ride to eat, it leaves you full in more ways than one.

Every November 11th, the rumble of motorcycles across America takes on a deeper meaning. Veterans Day isn’t just another date on the calendar — it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and honor the men and women who’ve worn the uniform, stood the watch, and carried the weight of freedom on their shoulders.

For those of us in the riding community, the connection runs especially deep. Motorcycles have been part of military history for over a century — from Harley-Davidsons roaring across Europe in World War I, to Indian Scouts and WLA “Liberators” serving in World War II, to modern-day veterans who find healing and camaraderie on two wheels. The bond between motorcycles and the military is more than mechanical; it’s cultural, emotional, and enduring.

Why Riders Remember
  • Shared Brotherhood: Just like serving in the military, riding is about trust, loyalty, and watching each other’s back.
  • Freedom on Two Wheels: Veterans know better than most that freedom isn’t free. Every ride is a reminder of the sacrifices made to protect it.
  • Healing Journeys: For many veterans, motorcycles are more than machines — they’re therapy. The open road offers peace, clarity, and a sense of control.
Veterans Day 2025: What It Means

This year, as we gather at parades, memorials, and local rides, let’s remember that Veterans Day isn’t about politics or division. It’s about gratitude. It’s about shaking a veteran’s hand, listening to their story, and making sure they know their service mattered.

Across the country, motorcycle clubs and veteran riding groups will roll out in force — from the Patriot Guard Riders to local American Legion & VFW posts organizing commemorative rides. These events aren’t just about chrome and horsepower; they’re about respect.

How You Can Honor Veterans Today
  • Ride with Purpose: Join a Veterans Day ride or organize one in your community.
  • Support Veteran Causes: Donate to organizations that help veterans transition back to civilian life.
  • Simply Say Thank You: Sometimes the most powerful gesture is the simplest.
Final Thoughts

So today, whether you’re polishing your bike, heading out for a ride, or standing quietly at a memorial, take a moment to honor our veterans.

Because every mile we ride in freedom is a mile they earned for us.

motorcycle recalls
check your vin for recalls
united states motorcycle recalls
NHTSA recall

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others.

Also, this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V723000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components POWER TRAIN

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2025 CB1000SP Hornet SP motorcycles. The pivot bolt on the gearshift pedal may loosen and detach, resulting in the inability to shift gears. As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 123, “Motorcycle Controls and Displays.”

Remedy Dealers will replace the pivot bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 19, 2025. Owners may contact Honda’s customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KT2. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning October 28, 2025.

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RIDE ON, RIDE SAFE

winter motorcycle preparation and storage

As riding season winds down—depending on your tolerance for cold fingers and frosty mornings—it’s time to think about winterizing your motorcycle.

There are thousands of tips out there, from the practical to the downright quirky (teaspoon of oil in the cylinders, anyone?).

But if you want to keep your bike in top shape for spring, here are my 9 must-do steps. Why 9? Because everyone does 10, and 11 is just too much work!

1. Stabilize the fuel or drain the tank. 

Modern gasoline, especially the ethanol-blended stuff, doesn’t age well. Some folks swear by draining the tank and carb, but I’m not convinced you can ever get every drop out.

My method: fill the tank, add a quality fuel stabilizer, and run the engine for at least 15 minutes to circulate the treated fuel throughout the system. Top off the tank afterward to minimize air (and moisture) inside.

2. Change your oil.   

Do this as close to your last ride as possible. If you’re a DIYer, consider changing the oil right after running the stabilized fuel through.

Fresh oil removes sludge and contaminants that could oxidize and cause damage during storage. Run the engine for a few minutes to distribute the new oil.

3. Prepare and Protect the Battery. 

Most motorcycle batteries are lead-acid and should be kept under a constant charge to maintain their life. Be aware there is a difference between a battery tender and a tickle charger.

A battery tender is a specialized charger that has special circuits to prevent overcharging your battery. You can use a trickle charger but check the instructions carefully; many cannot be used on your battery for more than 30 minutes each day.

If your motorcycle is stored where freezing temperatures will likely occur, consider removing the battery and placing it in a warm dry place. You will still need to keep it charged but the cold will have less effect on the life of the battery.

4. Check your anti-freeze.

Yes, Harley riders, this means you too! Make sure your coolant is at the right level and type for your bike. Whether it’s light-colored or clear, it’s time to change it.

DIYers: don’t forget to “bleed” the system to remove air pockets—nothing ruins the first ride of spring like an overheated engine.

5. Clean your bike. 

Whether you’re a clean freak or a once-a-year washer, now’s the time to get rid of all that road grime, salt, and bug guts.

Corrosive crud left on metal surfaces can do real damage over the winter. If you have a chain, clean it now too.

6. Wax, polish and lubricate. 

After the good cleaning I think it is important to put a nice coat of polish on the paint and chrome. This will help protect the surface from any condensation that might occur during storage. 

Lubricate the chain as described in your owner’s manual.

Lube all moving parts such as cables and your side stand pivot.

Use a metal protectant spray on the underside of the frame and drivetrain, I prefer to spray it on a rag and wipe it on that way I can also get some of the dirt I missed while cleaning the bike.

7. Put a sock in it. 

When I was a kid, I was helping a friend start his bike in the spring and shortly after starting we heard a lot of rattling in the exhaust. A few moments later out shot a handful of lightly roosted acorns that some chipmunk had hidden there.

Depending on where you are storing your motorcycle, cover your exhausts or insert exhaust plugs to protect yourself from critters.

8. Check your Tires. 

At a minimum, make sure your tires are properly inflated.

Some folks recommend letting a little air out to prevent condensation, but you’ll need to reinflate before riding.

There’s debate about whether to get the tires off the ground to avoid flat spots—some manufacturers (like Harley-Davidson) don’t recommend it, as it can stress the suspension. Check your owner’s manual for guidance.

9. Cover your motorcycle. 

Even if you’re storing your bike indoors, use a breathable cover—never a plastic tarp. You want to keep dust and moisture off but let air circulate to prevent rust.

By following these nine essential motorcycle winter storage tips, you’ll protect your bike from costly damage and ensure a smooth transition back to the road when spring arrives.

Regular motorcycle maintenance isn’t just about keeping your ride looking good—it’s about safety, reliability, and getting the most out of every mile. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to motorcycle care, prepping your bike for winter means you’ll be ready for those first warm days and epic spring riding adventures.

Ride On, Ride Safe

Eat to Ride #3: Hillbilly Hotdogs

Posted: October 6, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring, motorcycle tourism, ride to eat eat to ride
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
motorcycle ride to hillbilly hotdog

Ride Destination: Hillbilly Hot Dogs, Lesage, WV                        Route Taken: OH-7 to US-35, then WV-2 south along the Ohio river Distance: ~150 miles round trip                                                  Vibe: Backwoods carnival meets roadside Americana

Hotdogs are a true American staple—loved by many, for better or worse. Hillbilly Hotdogs takes that classic comfort food and gives it a major Appalachian twist, both in flavor and atmosphere.

Location: Hillbilly Hotdog on WV Route 2 north of Huntington, WV.

You can’t miss it: wedged between the road and the mountain, it’s a roadside attraction that grabs your attention whether you stop or just ride by.

The place is packed with quirky, hillbilly-themed décor, including a “Weddin Chaple” that’s hosted real weddings! It will engage your eyes as there is something everywhere you look!

The gravel parking lot offers plenty of space, with overflow parking on both sides of the chapel.

Seating is plentiful, thanks to a couple of converted school buses and a collection of outdoor tables.

The Food

Let’s talk dogs. These aren’t your ballpark franks—they’re Frankenstein creations of chili, slaw, jalapeños, mac & cheese, and whatever else the hillbilly imagination conjure. Here are a few standouts:

  • The Homewrecker: A 15-inch beast loaded with everything but regret. It’s a challenge and a meal, and yes, they make you sign a waiver.
  • The Mothman Dog: Spicy, smoky, and just mysterious enough to make you wonder if you saw something in the woods on the way in.
  • Hillbilly Nachos: Because why not? Pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce that could win awards.

The menu is extensive, with over 30 different types of hotdogs—so many, I wish I had snapped a photo for reference!

On our visit, Debbie opted for the “Ketchup Puppy” (not feeling adventurous that day), while I went for the Taco Dog, loaded with all the classic taco fixings. The dogs themselves are flavorful and high-quality, and the toppings on my Taco Dog were fresh and delicious.

Overall Thoughts: Must-visit food stops for bikers in Appalachia

Hillbilly Hotdogs is a must-visit if you’re anywhere nearby. It’s exactly what your stomach needs during a day trip or a long ride. Even Guy Fieri stopped by to tackle the Homewrecker for “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” The restaurant’s quirky spirit is so iconic, it even appears in the video game Fallout 76.

If you’re planning a ride through West Virginia, make sure Hillbilly Hotdogs is on your itinerary. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that blends great food, fun atmosphere, and true roadside Americana.

Have you been to Hillbilly Hotdog? If so comment below and let me know your thoughts.

Ride On, Ride Safe

recall list for ijustwant2ride.com

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others.

Also, this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V598000

Manufacturer KTM North America, Inc.

Components VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Summary KTM North America, Inc. is recalling certain 2022-2023 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, and 2022-2024 KTM 390 Adventure motorcycles. Water could enter the throttle (e-throttle) control unit and cause it to fail, resulting in loss of drive power.

Remedy KTM and Husqvarna dealers will inspect and replace the e-throttle control, free of charge. KTM has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact KTM customer service at 1-888-985-6090.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V590000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components STEERING

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain RH1250S (Sportster S) motorcycles. The upper triple clamp may fracture.

Remedy Dealers will replace the upper triple clamp, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 29, 2025. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0190.

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RIDE ON, RIDE SAFE

Ijustwant2ride.com  Save London Motorcycling

[IJustWant2Ride – Start] This post is by the organization Save London Motorcycling. Save London Motorcycling is a grassroots organization dedicated to fighting threats to motorcycling in London, UK.  Don’t think it can’t happen in the US.  I have pointed out, in several posts, attempts to “restrain” motorcycling and do not forget that the Vision Zero coalition is all about zero motorcycles.

Please share this to raise awareness this not just for “Save London Motorcycling” but for all of us. [IjustWant2Ride – End]

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Why We Fight to Ride Our Motorcycles

Across the UK, riders are under attack. Step by step, rule by rule, life on two wheels is being made harder, and London is on the front line.

Riders see what’s happening, but too often they don’t know how to respond. That’s why we created Save London Motorcycling to organize, to show riders they have power, and to fight back. We don’t charge membership fees; we just spread awareness and ask for whatever time, energy, and passion riders can spare.

Motorcycling is something we love, the freedom, the community, the vitality. Most riders aren’t chasing the old stereotype of the anarchist outlaw. We’re just people who ride because we love it and it makes our lives better.

If you are invisible, you are in danger
ijustwant2ride  save london motorcycling

As passionate as we can be about bikes when talking to other riders, most of us don’t bring it up unprompted in day-to-day conversation with non-bikers. We’re more interested in riding than talking about riding, and that makes us invisible to many people. They don’t know anyone who looks like their idea of a stereotypical biker, and so they don’t think they know anyone who rides. And as every rider knows, if you’re invisible, you’re in danger.

We all know there’s a small minority of people who think motorbikes are nothing but a nuisance: noisy, dirty, and dangerous. They don’t ride, they don’t understand why we do, and if it were up to them, they’d ban us all tomorrow.

Government Officials Have Agendas

In the UK, much like the USA, it’s local government that makes the rules we feel every day. That means one anti-motorbike councilor, elected with only a few hundred votes, can make life hell for riders across their borough.

If they tried to do this to car drivers they’d be reined in by their more moderate colleagues, car drivers are voters after all! But their colleagues don’t think they know any bikers, they don’t see us, they don’t hear us, and they don’t think we vote.

Hackney has become an extreme example of this, after their own anti-motorcycle activist councilor decided to impose parking charges on motorbikes at the same rate as cars and ban all-day parking to prevent motorbike commuting.

With petitions and protests, presenting the evidence and reasoning the case, we achieved some concessions from the Council. But in the end, they simply stopped listening. The original policy was so draconian, that even after their ‘concessions’ the costs are devastating.

Charges for commuters add up to more than £2,000 a year just to park at work. Resident permits up to £596 annually, and business permits reach £1,560, with further rises already planned. For around 10% of residents, those living in so-called ‘car-free developments’, permits are simply unavailable – motorbikes are banned outright.

By Hackney’s own projections, these rules would cause a 70% drop in motorbike use in the borough. Riders who rely on two wheels for work, family, or affordable travel are being told they’re no longer welcome. Hackney’s own target for reducing car use over the same period is only 30%.

Riders are being deliberately disproportionately targeted, not because of evidence, but because we are seen as a politically soft target.

Standing Up for Motorcyclists

Save London Motorcycling is refusing to let this stand. We have launched a legal challenge in the High Court, arguing that Hackney’s policy is unlawful, disproportionate, and discriminatory. If we win this case, it could have important implications for councils across the UK, setting the precedent that motorcyclists cannot be disproportionately targeted in this way without evidence.

Taking a council to court is not cheap, but thanks to the generosity of over a thousand riders and supporters, we have raised more than £20,000 through crowdfunding, with our target of £25,000 now within reach.

This is why we fight. Campaigning isn’t easy. It’s long evenings in council chambers and endless hours in meetings with decision-makers who would rather be anywhere else than listening to riders. But the support we consistently receive from around London and the UK proves something important: we don’t have to be invisible.

When riders know they can make a difference, they step up. They bring their energy, their stories, their belief that motorcycling makes life better – for themselves, and for the city as a whole. That passion is contagious, and it’s powerful.

Call to Action

Change comes from the small things: an email to a councilor, a repost on social media, a donation to a legal fund. Each of these acts alone might seem small, but together, multiplied across thousands of riders, they become impossible to ignore.

We must harness the sense of community that binds us as riders, the solidarity we feel when we see another biker on the road and turn it into collective action. That is our strength. If we use it, we can protect motorcycling not only for ourselves, but for the generations to come.

Make no mistake: this is a fight for the future of Motorcycling. If we stand together, we can win it.

Links to Save London Motorcycling

Save London Motorcycling – Facebook

Save London Motorcycling – X

Save London Motorcycling – Instagram

Save London Motorcycling – Interweb