Archive for the ‘Motorcycle’ Category

Motorcycle News: More on Kill Switches and a Bently Motorcycle?

Posted: December 21, 2023 in custom motorcycle, Motorcycle, Motorcycle news
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ijustwant2ride.com

DOWN Shift – Vehicle Kill Switches  

Nothing has changed except that National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has published it preliminary report on the Biden Infrastructure mandate regariding vehicle kill switches. The NHTSA is looking for public feedback on this issue.  One of the areas that they are looking for input is on false positives.

My Take – False positives shutting your car/motorcycle off is one major area of concern I have with this proposed legislation.  Even with 99.9% success rate that would leave millions of vehicles shutdown every day. Another major area of concern for me, can the police or OTHER government officials shut down your car remotely?  Just because they say that it will not happen does not mean it will not happen. You can supply that feedback and make your voice heard on this new regulation by going to regualtions.gov and searching for the docket number, NHTSA-2022-0079.

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UP Shift – Bently and Ducati team up for a luxury motorcycle

The Ducati Diavel V4 motorcycle is getting the Bently Batur treatment.

The Bently Batur with a twin-turbo 12-cylinder 730HP engine is the most powerful Bentley ever to leave the production line.  The Batur was limited to a run of just 18 but Ducati can let you get a taste of that exclusivity.

The Ducati is painted a Scarab Green color that pulls from the Bentley Mulliner palette. The lines of the motorcycle are being updated to reflect the Bently’s characteristics.  Featuring forged rims that reflect the shapes of the car. The bike’s two-tone grille comes directly from the Batur while the triangular exhaust pulls from the sports car and front mudguard, fairing and upper view of the tank are meant to look like Batur’s hood.

Even with the Bently treatment buyers have option:

    Two-seat or single-seater tail configuration. The rider’s seat is covered in black Alcantara and red fabric that matches the look of Batur’s seats. The Bentley logo is embroidered on the rear pad.

    A “jet” helmet

    A matching jacket

Ducati will sell only 550 of these luxury motorcycles. Fifty examples are reserved exclusively for Bentley owners, who can add even more custom elements.

Each bike comes with a certificate of authenticity, a passenger seat and motorcycle cover, delivered in a personalized wooden case.

My Take – WOW.  No pricing was available when I wrote this post, but I expect it will be out of my tax bracket.  I put this as an upshift as it draws attention to the motorcycle industry.  If a Bently Batur owner gets a matching motorcycle, maybe just maybe they might buy a bike that they will actually ride.

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Ride on, Ride Safe

9 Tips for riding a motorcycle in winter.

Posted: December 6, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring
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Winter in the northern hemisphere is approaching fast, maybe faster then you can ride your motorcycle south, chasing the sun! On top of that there is great concern that the winter in the Unites States may be worse than normal because of an El Nino jet stream pulling damp air and turning it into snow. Just look a few post in the past to see we had a winter ride already this year.

If you want or “need” to ride in winter here are some tips to help you prepare for the conditions.  However, always look at the level of risk to reward before you ride out.

  1. Wear appropriate gear: Dress in layers to keep yourself warm and dry. Wear a windproof and waterproof outer layer to protect yourself from the elements. Don’t forget to wear gloves, boots, and a helmet that covers your face. If you can make a lot of that gear heated even better! If you can make your base layers synthetic and not cotton as cotton does not dry fast and you do not want to be wet in the winter.
  2. Check your tires: Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread to provide good traction on slippery roads. Racing slicks will not help you much on snow or ice.
  3. Use the right oil: Use oil that is designed for cold weather. This will help your engine start more easily and run more smoothly. I am a big fan of synthetic oil which seems to work better in winter, IMHO.
  4. Warm up your bike: Let your bike warm up for a few minutes before you start riding. This will help the engine run more smoothly and reduce the risk of stalling.
  5. Be cautious: Be extra cautious when riding in winter conditions. Slow down and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles. Folks in cars don’t look for us in summer I am sure they will look even less in winter.
  6. Avoid sudden movements: Avoid sudden movements like hard braking or accelerating quickly. This can cause your tires to lose traction and lead to an accident.
  7. Watch out for black ice: Black ice is difficult to see and can be very dangerous. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses, and shady areas.
  8. Stay visible: Wear bright and reflective clothing to make yourself more visible to other drivers. This is one of the reasons I run Custom Dynamic lights, they are extra bright. There are also other options such as adding reflective tape to your clothing and even helmet.
  9. Stay alert: Riding in winter conditions requires extra attention and focus. Stay alert and be prepared for unexpected situations.

It is possible to ride your motorcycle in winter and even with there is snow and ice on the ground. You just have to be very careful as you only have two wheels to handle the conditions. As I mentioned above always weigh the risk vice the reward before heading out on a cold winter day.

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Ride On, Ride Safe! 🏍️

Motorcycle Recall November 2023: CFMoto, Triumph

Posted: November 28, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, 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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Manufacturer CFMOTO POWERSPORTS

Components SERVICE BRAKES, AIR, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary CFMOTO POWERSPORTS, INC. (CFMOTO) is recalling certain 2022-2023 700CL-X motorcycles. The ABS control module software settings may delay braking when the hand brake lever is squeezed two or more times, and therefore lengthen the distance required to stop the motorcycle.

Remedy Dealers will update the ABS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 27, 2023. Owners may contact CFMOTO customer service Toll Free at (888) 8-CFMOTO (283-6686) or at 1-763-398-2690; or via email at info@cfmotousa.com. CFMOTO’s number for this recall is WAR-2023-07 and is available online at www.cfmotousa.com.

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Manufacturer Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd.

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd. (Triumph) is recalling certain 2020 Rocket 3 TFC, 2020-2024 Rocket 3 R, Rocket 3 GT, 2022 Rocket 3 GT Triple Black, and Rocket 3 R Black motorcycles. The rear brake master cylinder may fail to move fluid through the system properly, requiring an extended distance to stop.

Remedy Dealers will replace the rear brake master cylinder, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 20, 2023. Owners may contact Triumph’s customer service at 1-678-854-2010. Triumph’s number for this recall is SRAN 611.

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Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle News: Vehicle Kill Switches and Speed Limiters

Posted: November 23, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news
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ijustwant2ride.com

I am always looking at motorcycle news. Sometimes it is good news, sometimes it is not so good news. Here I give you a quick synopsis of the news story that caught my eye and then my take on that story.

Down Shift – Vehicle Kill Switches  

Under the Biden Infrastructure Bill “provision requires such technology to “passively monitor the performance of a driver” and “prevent or limit motor vehicle operation if an impairment is detected.” That “this needs to be developed and rules given to manufactures by 2026”.  We could see this as a “new feature”, for which we will be paying, by 2027.

My Take – Some are arguing that this is not a kill switch, but from the way I read the language it is a kill switch.  Whether or not it will stop a moving vehicle is a different question.  But, the way government bureaucracies work, if it does not cover stopping a moving vehicle at first, it soon will.

We do not need this level of government interference in our lives.  While the provision states “impaired driver” now what prevents the standard from changing to something different in the future.

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Down Shift – Using Technology to limit vehicle speed.

To prevent deaths from speeding, the NTSB has recommended limiting the speed of cars via technology, if necessary. This proposed action is another part of the Biden Infrastructure Plan.  This effort is modeled from the European Union legislation requiring all new vehicles to have “intelligent speed assistance” systems as standard equipment, which can be temporarily overridden by the driver. The limiting technology, known as Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA), doesn’t force drivers to obey the speed limit. 

My Take – I am sure that Vision Zero has their smelly little hands on both these rules that were slide into the Biden Infrastructure Plan.  Yes, I do not like the Vision Zero folks.  IMHO they are nothing but little totalitarians who what to eliminate motorcycles from the road. I am sure their unwritten manifesto is “The best way to save lives in the transportation system is to have no transportation”.

They state that the ISA will not force drivers/riders to obey the speed limit but, like the above proposal, if it does not at the start it will in a few years.

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Ride on, Ride Safe

9 Holiday Gift Giving Ideas for your Motorcyclist.

Posted: November 20, 2023 in custom motorcycle, Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring, Product Reviews
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santa gifts

Why just 9 ideas for your motorcyclist?  Because 10 is too much work!!  LOL

Your biker/motorcyclist, deep down, wants some motorcycle related stuff.  Any parts or accessories for the bike or new gear for them will likely work, but here are a few other items to think about. If you have some different ideas include them in the comments!

9 – Communication Gear – There are several options out there that will allow your motorcycle rider to talk to a group of other riders, listen to music or answer your phone call.  Sena and Cardio are two of the more popular brands.

8 – Battery Tender – Winter is coming and if your rider has to lock away the motorcycle a battery tender will keep the battery fresh all winter.  preparing motorcycle for winter | I JUST WANT 2 RIDE!!.

7 – Cleaning equipment – Take a look at your riders cleaning equipment.  Does it look worn and tattered? Consider replacing their current equipment for new cleaning equipment.  For those times you just want to clean the bike quickly between rides I use and recommend Bugslide.  I am not paid by, but I do endorse Bugslide.

6 – Recording equipment – A GoPro or similar type of device to record their rides.

5 – New riding gear – Do their riding gloves look ratty?  What about their boots or jackets?  Now might be a good time to gift them with new motorcycle riding gear.

4 – Motorcycle related books – There are a lot of them out there.  I just finished reading the memoir of Willie G. Davidson, grandson of the founders of Harley Davison. You can read my review here.

3 – Their bike on something –  and I am not talking about crack or meth.  There are a lot of companies that will take a photo of their motorcycle and put it on mugs, pillows, t-shirts and even make it into a 3d Christmas ornament.

2 – Custom Dynamics Motorcycle Lights – Custom Dynamics makes SUPER BRIGHT, eye catching lights for many motorcycle models. I suggest their ProBeam LED Motorcycle Turn Signals!  I have had them on 3 motorcycles and highly recommend them.  As before, I am not getting paid to promote these motorcycle lights, I just believe in them.

1 – Membership – Motorcyclist need to make sure their rights are not trampled upon.  There are two good groups that help preserve those rights.  Sign your rider up for either or both!

American Motorcycle Association – Membership does not only help in the political arena but also include discounts on products and emergency towing.  The AMA is the largest motorcycle lobbyist group.

Motorcycle Rider Foundation – In addition to their pro-motorcycle lobbying efforts membership will get you a $4000 AD&D insurance policy and regular weekly/monthly updates on what is going on in Washington DC.

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Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle Recall October 2023: Harley Davidson X2, Zero

Posted: October 29, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, 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, 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: 23V672000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2023 FLHXSE and FLTRXSE motorcycles. The rear brake line may not be secured properly, allowing it to chafe against the exhaust pipe, which can result in a brake fluid leak.

Remedy Dealers will replace the rear brake line clamp, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0184.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E074000

Manufacturer Zero Motorcycles Inc.

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Zero Motorcycles Inc. (Zero) is recalling certain accessory chain kits, with part numbers 10-08127 and 10-08140. The included installation instructions are incorrect and if followed, may lead to eventual dislocation of the motor shaft magnet while riding.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and repair the motorcycles as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 30, 2023. Owners may contact Zero customer service at 1-888-841-8085. Zero’s number for this recall is SV-RCL-023-014.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V666000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2023 X350 RA motorcycles. The fuel sensor may leak fuel.

Remedy Dealers will replace the fuel sensor gasket, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 23, 2023. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0183.

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Ride On, Ride Safe

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Motocycle Rides: The Raptor in the cold with rain and snow.

Posted: October 12, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring
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Over the Columbus federal holiday weekend Debbie and I took our first long ride on the new motorcycle (I will be posting about the new motorcycle soon).  The weather was supposed to be cool but not terrible. However, cool turned into cold and cold turned to a mix of rain and snow.

This was also likely the last overnight trip of the season as we head, quickly, into winter!  Winter sucks!

Sunday morning, we pulled out and headed south to Staunton, Virginia. Our goal was to ride “The Raptor”, 88 miles across 8 mountains with sections of twisties that rival the Tail of the Dragon.

The Raptor lived up to its appearance on the map.  Multiple up and down hill switchbacks, tight twisty turns many exceeding 90 degrees. In other words, it is a lot of fun for riders that like this type of road.  This is also a road, like the Tail of the Dragon, that if you don’t pay attention, AND ride within your abilities, you could get yourself into trouble.

There’s nothing quite like riding US Route 250, the Raptor, on a motorcycle. It’s a thrilling experience that takes you through some of the most scenic and challenging roads in the country. You’ll encounter twists and turns, mountains and valleys, forests, and farms, as you cruise along this stretch of asphalt.

When we finished The Raptor, I wanted to turn around and head back to do it again.  But the temperature had dropped, and Debbie wanted to head to the hotel.  Alas, I was relying on the GPS and did not realize it was set to “Scenic” not fastest. OPPS! About an hour into what I thought was to be, at most, a 30 minute trip I realized my mistake.  20 minutes later we made it to the Corduroy Inn and Lodge at Snowshoe, WV, our stop for the night.

At this point I started to understand fully (not that I did not already know from being there multiple times) that we were at a ski resort.  Debbie and I started laughing about our situation and quickly made for the Inn.

The next morning, I walked out to see how the weather impacted the bike and parking lot.  There was some snow on the motorcycle, but the parking lot was good to go, with no ice or snow.  Also, upon check out we were told we should have used the parking garage… thanks guys we will know for next time.

By the way, our room at the Corduroy Inn was genuinely nice, we would stay there again.

Pulling out we headed first to Senica Rocks for breakfast and the view.  It was cooling off even more and starting to rain so we spent little time on the view.

Back on the road we headed to the house and made it home on a filthy and wet motorcycle and looking forward to warm showers!

40 New Roads to Ride your Motorcycle

Posted: October 5, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring
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A few years ago, I wrote about a website that the federal government did right. The Federal Highway Administration’s America’s Byways website is a good place to look for roads to ride. I use this website often to find interesting roads to travel while at or on the way to or from my destination. 

The website has both roads designated as American Byways and All-American Roads.  The homepage describes the differences between the two types of roads.  

I am revisiting this website because they have added forty new roads to the list that now totals 184 byways for us to travel. You can discover the roads by clicking on the state you want to travel and see what National Bayway or All-American roads are there for you to explore.

The following are a few examples of the new roads added to list and might make my bucket list:

Cascade Loop, Washington – 440 miles

Newfound Gap Road Byway, Tennessee – 50 miles

Door County Costal Byway, Wisconsin – 67 miles

Trail of the Ancients, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico  – 480 miles

Bayou Teche Scenic Byway, Louisiana – 296 miles

Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway, Nebraska – 438 miles

If you do not have National Scenic Byways & All-American Roads website in your riding toolbox… do it now!

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plan a motorcycle ride
American Byway map page
american byway
Interactive map of American Byways

Motorcycle Recall September 2023: Ducati

Posted: September 28, 2023 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.

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: 23V620000

Manufacturer Ducati North America

Components STRUCTURE

Summary Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2018-2020 XDiavel S and XDiavel Standard motorcycles. The side stand bracket may fail, causing the side stand to open while riding and resulting in an unexpected engine shutdown.

Remedy Dealers will install a new side stand bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 3, 2023. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446. Ducati’s number for this recall is SRV-RCL-23-004.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe

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Unboxing a nicely boxed ICON Air Flight Motorcycle Helmet

Posted: September 22, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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My daughter purchased a new motorcycle helmet, we unboxed it for the first look!

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