Archive for the ‘motorcycle safety’ Category

Motorcycle News: Synthetic Fuels and Seat Belts

Posted: July 18, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring
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ijustwant2ride

What you need to know: E-Fuels – Study: Synthetic fuel can be used without any problems

European scientists have completed a study that shows the new fuel, Eco100Pro, is safe for general use.  The fuel was tested on the engine test stand, on a racetrack during the ADAC XC Cup, and on the road. The scientists came to the same conclusion: “No losses in power and torque compared to regular gasoline from the gas station. No higher fuel consumption. No technical risk for the combustion engine. But at least 77 percent fewer CO2 emissions.”

So, the internal combustion engine in cars and motorcycles should continue to operate efficiently without modifications, if filled with Eco100Pro. 

My Take: Ok, sounds good. No changes are needed to our motorcycles, and we get reduced emissions. I checked the price, wow, about 85% more than fossil fuel.  That can be overcome by increasing production.  But I saw nothing that indicated increasing production any time soon.

What you need to know: CFMoto has patented “seat belts” for motorcycles.

CFMoto has patented a unique safety feature for motorcycles, resembling “seat belts” but designed as flexible straps at the rider’s waist to enhance safety during specific circumstances.

While this invention aims to prevent riders from being thrown off during impacts or braking events, it is engineered to release the rider in scenarios like falls or sideways forces. The concept introduces a novel approach to motorcycle safety, potentially reshaping industry standards.

My take:  This seems to be a possible solution to the introduction of forward-looking radar and automatic breaking.  I do not believe that automatic breaking should ever be integrated into motorcycles. Forward-looking radar and adaptive cruise control I have no problem with.


The true test of CFMoto’s innovation lies in its real-world application, raising questions about practicality and effectiveness that may only be resolved through future testing and potential legal challenges

Motorcycle News: Lane Filtering and Motorcycle Caucus.

Posted: June 17, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle safety
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What you need to know: Lane Filtering is now legal in Colorado.

On April 4, 2024, the governor of Colorado signed into law a bill allowing motorcycles to filter between stopped cars in traffic and at stoplights. Colorado became the fifth state to legalize lane filtering, joining California, Utah, Montana, and Arizona.

The bill will go into effect on August 7, 2024. Motorcyclists will be allowed to filter through stopped traffic at a speed of 15 mph or less. 

However, this legislation will be subject to safety studies, and unless those studies work out favorably, it will automatically become illegal again in 2027.

My Take: I support lane filtering when it is safe and legal.  I like the idea that this time will be used to study the results of the new bill.  HOWEVER, not too sure if that is enough time to get a good sample data set AND how is the state going to inform/train the drivers of cars/trucks on the new law.

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What you need to know: United States House Congressional Motorcycle Caucus increases in size.

With the recent gain of six new members, the House Motorcycle Caucus now has 36 members. 

Founded in 2009, “The House and Senate Motorcycle Caucuses host educational seminars and press events that shine a light on the issues facing the motorcycling community. The bipartisan membership of these caucuses allows us to know who our champions on Capitol Hill are and which legislators are committed to standing with us on critical issues.” (quote and list from the Motorcycle Riders Foundation)

My Take: If your representative is on the list AWESOME!  If not drop them a note and encourage them to join and work with our community.  My rep is not on the list, and I just sent a request asking why he is not.

Ride On, Ride Safe

purple motorcycle ijustwant2ride.com

Motorcycle Recalls May 2024: There are none!

Posted: May 29, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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This does not happen very often…. NO RECALLS!

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. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) 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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Ride on, Ride safe

Virginia DMV and Motorcycle Safety

Posted: May 14, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring
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The Virginia Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, Commissioner Lakey, recently sent motorcycle owners correspondence regarding motorcycle safety (see below), highlighting the Virginia Riders Training program. The letter also included a pamphlet regarding the Rider Training program (above).

Shockingly, statistics reveal that 76% of motorcyclists involved in crashes in Virginia had not completed a training course. Even more alarmingly, 1 in 4 riders in these accidents lacked an “M” motorcycle endorsement on their licenses.

This data underscores the importance of training and proper licensure. As we mark Motorcycle Safety Awareness month, I am grateful for the Commissioner’s efforts in raising awareness through these letters and educational materials. It is my sincere hope that more individuals seize this opportunity to enhance their skills and ensure safer rides for themselves and others.

Boost Road Safety with a Fun Motorcycle Counting Activity for Kids

Posted: May 11, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May, promoting awareness among children about watching for motorcycles is crucial.

A game where kids count motorcycles instead of “punch bugs” can foster early recognition of motorcycles, benefiting their future driving habits.

This effort aims to enhance overall safety on the roads, emphasizing that safety gear and motorcycle technology alone are insufficient without driver awareness.

By encouraging families and friends to engage in this activity, we invest in a safer future for all road users.

The excitement of spotting motorcycles in this game can make road safety a priority at an early age, emphasizing the importance of vigilance on the roads.

purple motorcycle ijustwant2ride.com

Ride On, Ride Safe!

Steal these Memes! May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Posted: May 6, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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motorcycle Safety

May is Motorcycle Safety Awarness Month!

It is important to get the word out to your non-riding friends and family!

I don’t own any of these photos/memes about motorcycle safety, but I have gathered them from actross the intenet. I think that “Fair Use” is in full operation regarding their use.

So, PLEASE, copy past and any of these motorcycle safety pictures and memes. Post them all to your favorite media sites. Point them out to non-riders, we motorcycle riders already get it!

safety
safety
safety
safety
safety

Cleaning a Motorcycle Helmet

Posted: April 26, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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Your motorcycle helmet is your most important piece of equipment so keeping it clean is important.  Not just from an appearance perspective but as a method to ensure it is still in good working condition.

Also, April is Motorcycle Helmet Awareness month so now is a good time to do the work!

While you are cleaning your helmet look for cracks in the shell, that the hard foam is intact and in good condition (this is the part that does most of the work to protect your head) and all the other parts are in good working order.  

Before you start… read your owner’s manual on cleaning your specific motorcycle helmet.

1 – Take either a microfiber or paper towels, soaked in warm water and lay across the helmet and visor.  This will moisten any hard dried bugs or grime that might scratch the finish if you first went to scrubbing or rubbing.  Leave the towels on for about 10 minutes and then gently remove the now softer bugs/grime. Remove the visor before step 2.

2 – After the bugs/grime are soft use warm soapy water to clean the shell fully. Rinse, dry and admire your clean exterior.

3 – The visor needs additional attention. The warm towels may have helped get rid of the road grime, but your visor needs special attention. DO NOT use any products that have acid or ammonia! Even products with citric acid can damage the visor (personal experience). Most glass cleaners have some form of acid or ammonia so avoid them as well. Warm soapy water and microfiber cloth is the best way to safely clean your visor.

4 – Make sure you clean out the visor mechanism. Keeping the mechanism clean will help make sure it works as designed.

5 – Clean the sun visor in the same manner you cleaned the visor. No ammonia or acid-based cleaners!

6 – Now that the outside of your helmet is clean how about the inside? MOST helmets allow you to remove the interior padding. Look at your instructions and pull the lining out. Some motorcycle helmet manufactures allow you to put the padding in a washing machine, others recommend hand cleaning in warm soapy water. If you use the by hand method, I recommend a baby shampoo.

7 – If your helmet’s padding is not removable follow the instructions your helmet manufacture provided.  BUT, in my opinion only, dunking the entire helmet into soapy water is not the way to go. It takes forever to dry; it can mildew, and I am always unsure if it may have damaged the underlying foam. My suggestion is to use a motorcycle helmet sanitizing spray.

8 –Check the vents to make sure they are clean and open.  A shot of compressed air, from the inside, might dislodge dried road grimes and bugs.

9 – Put it back together, following the instructions if you still have them. 😊

Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle News: 2022 Motorcycle Deaths and Cell Phone Cameras

Posted: April 22, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle safety
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ijustwant2ride.com

What you need to know… There has been an increase in motorcycle rider deaths.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its final 2022 Fatality Analysis Reporting System traffic crash data. NHTSA reported 42,514 total fatalities in the U.S. in 2022. That is a 1.7% decrease from the previous year.

BUT, motorcyclists deaths increased 1.2%. The official number of motorcyclists killed in 2022 was 6,218, an increase of 75 deaths compared to 2021.

Alcohol-impaired fatal crashes account for 29% of all motorcyclist deaths. Across the nation, 7.8% of fatal crashes involved a “distracted driver.” 

My Take –DOWNSHIFT – 1800 people killed due to riding while drunk, wow. I hope the 2023 numbers are better.  If you want to see the entire NHTSA report click this link.

purple motorcycle ijustwant2ride.com

What you need to know… Speed cameras to catch cell phone users

In England the police are deploying AI powered cameras that not only catches speeding cars but people using their phones while at the wheel.

Each unit will have multiple cameras to give the most complete view of drivers and passengers, with the kit mounted on either a trailer, or specialist van.

“Working with our police partners we want to reduce such dangerous driving and reduce the risks posed to both the drivers and other people. We believe that using technology like this will make people seriously consider their driving behavior,” Head of National Road User Safety Delivery at National Highways. Matt Staton said.

Drivers can be fined up to £500 for not wearing a seat belt, with phone users getting up to six points and a £1000 fine,

My Take – Hitting Neutral – While this is a step in the right direction to bust distracted drivers, why are we even having this problem.  The phone companies could be forced to tun off everything, but the hand-fee features when the phones are moving at more than 5 MPH.  The technology is already there.

Ride on, Ride Safe

April is Motorcycle Helmet Safety Month

Posted: April 11, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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It is time to check you motorcycle helmet!

At least once a year you should check your helmet to make sure everything is right and correct.  As the month of April is Motorcycle Helmet Safety month, now is a good time to do the checks.

What are the things you need to check?  Here are the minimum things you need to look for:

1) Is the shell all in one piece? No cracks or splits?

2) Are the straps and connectors in good shape, no adverse wear or tear?

3) The internal padding is connected and stays in place?

4) Remove the padding and check the foam.  Is it dented or have cracks?

5) While looking at the foam, most companies place a sticker printed with the helmet’s birthday. Is it over 5 years old?

6) Does the rest of the internals look in good operating condition?

7) Check the visor for damage that might obscure your vision can you see clearly?

8) Are the screws or other visor attachments tight?

9) Make sure that insects/creatures are not living in your helmet, see the photos below!

Checklist item 5 is the 5-year rule.  Most manufactures recommend that after 5 years you replace your helmet.  While the cynical among us will cite the “more money” theory of why they want it replaced ,there is evidence that the foam lining (the part that does most of the work in a crash) does deteriorate over time. It is your head, so it is your decision to replace or not if everything looks good.

That little red spot on the inside of the helmet below… is a Black Widow Spider!

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helmet
helmet

Motorcycle Recall March 2024: BMW X3, Kawasaki, LiveWire, Triumph

Posted: March 29, 2024 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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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. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) 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: 24E029000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain BMW motorcycle dealer accessory side cases, designed to fit R1300 GS motorcycles, with part number: 77 41 9 444 361/362. The side case latch hooks may not snap properly into the lock, which can result in the case lid opening, and possibly detaching from the motorcycle.

Remedy Dealers will repair the locking mechanism and hinges of the side cases, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 13, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V221000

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

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Kawasaki Motor Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 ZX400S and ZX400P (2023 Ninja ZX-4RR KRT Edition, 2024 Ninja ZX-4R, and 4RR) motorcycles. The spark plugs may have been damaged during the vehicle manufacturing process, which can result in unstable idling, hesitation, and engine stalling.

Remedy Dealers will replace all four spark plugs, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC’s number for this recall is MC27-04.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V216000

Manufacturer LIVEWIRE EV, LLC

Components SUSPENSION

Summary LiveWire EV, LLC (LiveWire) is recalling certain 2024 S2DM (S2 Del Mar) motorcycles. The rear axle and lower shock joint nuts may not have been properly tightened.

Remedy Dealers will inspect, tighten any loose nuts and replace damaged components as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2024. Owners may contact LiveWire customer service at 1-855-387-4337. LiveWire’s number for this recall is 1002.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V177000

Manufacturer Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd.

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd. (Triumph) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Speed Triple RS, and Speed Triple RR motorcycles. The engine may overheat and cause the fan motor to fail, resulting in a coolant leak.

Remedy Dealers will replace the original engine software calibration with a new version, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 26, 2024. Owners may contact Triumph customer service at 1-678-854-2010. Triumph’s number for this recall is SRAN 62

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V165000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components SUSPENSION

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024 R 1250RT, K 1600GT, K 1600GTL, and K 1600B motorcycles. The front spring strut may contain an incorrectly manufactured proportional valve that can loosen, and result in strut failure and a loss of stability.

Remedy Dealers will inspect the strut production dates and replace the front spring struts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 22, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 24E020000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain BMW Motorcycle Dealer Accessory Top cases, designed for R 1300 GS motorcycles, and with part number 77 43 9 443 542. The dealer accessory top case locking flap may not function correctly, which can result in the top case detaching from the motorcycle.

Remedy Dealers will repair the locking mechanism of the top case and provide an insert for the rider’s manual regarding the locking mechanism, free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

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Ride On, Ride Safe

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