Archive for the ‘Motorcycle’ Category

9 Weird Motorcycles for 2020

Posted: February 9, 2021 in custom motorcycle, Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy
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2020 the lost year…. It was hard to find the weird motorcycles among all the hate and vile of social media this year. I found a total of 12 strange, wonderful motorcycles for this year’s list. Reducing from 12 weird bikes to 9 was not very hard either.

Just a quick note, these motorcycles may have been around for a few years, but I first noticed them this past year.

Also, there seems to be a bit of “SteamPunk” vide with many of this years winners. Which is your favorite weird motorcycle for 2020?

Motorcycle Book Review: Born Free Motorcycle Show

Posted: February 5, 2021 in custom motorcycle, Motorcycle, motorcycle show, Product Reviews
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The Born Free Motorcycle Show is one of the best chopper jamborees around.  It always gets the coolest and craziest choppers to attend and show off. DicE Magazine covered the show and produced a “Coffee Table” picture book all about the bikes at the show.  

At 300 pages of the coolest motorcycles, choppers, bobbers, racing and culture pictures the book is fun to flip through.  The creativity of some of the builders is hard to believe.

This book will grace my coffee table for quite a while.

Motorcycle Recall January 2021: Yamaha X2, Helmets

Posted: January 28, 2021 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, 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: 21E003000

Manufacturer Strategic Sports, Ltd.

Components EQUIPMENT  HELMET

Summary: Strategic Sports, LTD. (Strategic Sports) is recalling certain Simpson Performance Products Shorty OTW (Over the Wall) helmets, part number ST-205, in sizes XS, S, M, L, XL manufactured March 1, 2017-August 11, 2020. The helmets lack proper retention system integrity, penetration protection and labels. As such, these helmets fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 218, “Motorcycle Helmets.”

Remedy: Strategic Sports will notify owners, and dealers will collect the noncompliant helmets and issue a refund. The recall began January 25, 2021. Owners may contact Strategic Sports customer service at 1-619-861-8110.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V813000

Manufacturer Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Components POWER TRAIN

Summary: Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2016-2020 Yamaha FJR13A and FJR13AE motorcycles. The second gear of the transmission can crack and break under high speed loads.

Remedy: Yamaha will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, reprogram the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and replace the main axle and drive axle assemblies, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 13, 2021. Owners may contact Yamaha customer service at 1-800-962-7926. Yamaha’s number for this recall is 990141. Note: Owners are advised not to operate their motorcycle until the repairs have been performed.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V814000

Manufacturer Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Components EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Summary: Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2018-2020 MTT9GT (Tracer GT), 2019 MXTGTKL (NIKEN GT), 2017-2020 MT10, 2018-2020 XTZ12 (Super Ténéré), 2013-2020 FJR13, 2018 XV19B (Star Eluder), and 2018-2021 XV19 (Star Venture) motorcycles. The front brake switch can fail due to increased resistance from silicon oxide.

Remedy: Yamaha will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front brake switch, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 13, 2021. Owners may contact Yamaha customer service at 1-800-962-7926. Yamaha’s number for this recall is 990140. Note: Owners are advised not to operate their motorcycle until the repairs have been performed.

*****

Ride on, Ride Safe

Click here to see the December 2020 Motorcycle Recall list

Best Motorcycle Memes for 2020

Posted: January 22, 2021 in custom motorcycle, Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy
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During 2020 I collected 23 motorcycle memes that I though were funny, good or made a point.

I had a very hard time deciding which one I liked best, for me it came down to “Aliens” or “Make ready to RIDE!”. Well it is a tie for me… which one do you like best?

Here are the best 9 motorcycle memes for 2020.

Ride on Ride Safe

9 Tips for Riding Your Motorcycle in the Winter

Posted: January 19, 2021 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety, Uncategorized
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It is that time of year again, winter in the northern hemisphere. A time where many of us will begin to suffer from PMS (Parked Motorcycle Syndrome), especially after the lost year of 2020.

Many of us will be tempted to get out and ride on a bright, warmish day, I know I will.  But take inconsideration the following tips if you decide to get out and ride.

9 – ATGATT! – means even more in the winter.  Not only should you dress for the slide you have to dress to stay warm, hypothermia can set in quickly if you are not prepared.  Wear layers under you motorcycle jacket and pants. If your outer layer supports armor, make sure it is installed.

8 – Watch for hidden ice – While you think you may be out on a sunny dry day frost and ice can linger in the shadows. Remember the rule about scanning ahead?  Now that small covering of leaves at the apex of the next turn may hide a patch of ice.

7 – Cold Motorcycle Tires – You know this, but it is worth reminding.  Your tires will take longer to warm up and may never reach the optimal grip temperature. Make sure you account for your lack of grip during breaking, accelerating and in turns.  A little fish tail at the stop light with warm tires can be interesting, on cold tires it could cause a crash.

6 – Tire Pressure – You really need to ensure your PSI is correct for the conditions.  Most tires have a year-round recommendation, some may have a different recommendation for winter.  Also, if you have not noticed, motorcycle tires seem to lose pressure in the winter.  Make sure your tires are at the proper PSI before every winter motorcycle ride.

The ultimate winter motorcycle tire

5 – More Tire Notes – Pay attention to the tread on your tires. Have the track day slicks on the bike, not a great idea for winter riding. Do not have much tread left? Not a good idea to go for a winter motorcycle ride. If you are going to be riding a lot of cold days, look for something that has a more rugged tread design.

4 – Install a Windshield – It is quite likely there is a windshield for your motorcycle.  If possible, find one and install it for your winter rides.  Not only will it reduce the wind it will also cut down on the splashing and spray from other vehicles. 

3 – Your Hands Need Attention – Your hands are out in the wind all the time and they are at the end of your circulatory system. Because of this they will get cold faster than the rest of your body. Heated grips help as well as a good set of windproof gloves designed to keep your hands warm. Pay close attention to the conditions of your hands so you can grab that clutch or break if you need to.

2- Heated Gear – If you plan on riding your motorcycle in cold weather a lot, invest in heated gear.  There is a lot of brands out there but make sure you purchase the one that will work best for you.  Can you plug it into your motorcycle, or do you need a battery pack?  Heated gloves, pants, jackets, base layers are all available, just figure out what works for your style of riding.

1 – Do not Ride if it is Below Freezing – Below freezing means ice will form. Below freezing means your bike might not perform as you expect.  Below freezing means it is just not worth the risk.

Ride on, Ride Safe

9 Motorcycle Movies for the Winter of 2021

Posted: January 7, 2021 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle TV
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This year’s list of motorcycle movies, or TV shows, has some oldies and some independent films.  These are all films that I think should help you though winter sparked PMS (Parked Motorcycle Syndrome).

Have some films to recommend? Add your list in the comments section!

Speed is My Need – I have not yet reviewed this movie, but it is interesting.  The film follows Leon Haslam through two racing season and the associated high and lows. It took be a while after watching but, I decided this film was as much as a sports psychology film as a film about motorcycle racing.

Long Way Up – Another Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman documentary expedition.  On this film they ride 13,000 miles from South America to Los Angeles on electric motorcycles.  It is on Apple TV and I have not yet seen the film as I refuse to pay for another streaming service. I recommend it based on their other films.

Electra Glide in Blue – A story of an Arizona motorcycle cop that is assigned to investigate a murder.  This film is 100% 1970s ethos, with the hero’s disillusionment as a goal. I enjoyed the movie; it is something for you to watch on a cold winter weekend.

Bennett’s War – Bennett’s War story opens with two soldiers parachuting into an unknown location along with a couple crates. Turns out there are, what appears to be electric, adventure style, motorcycles in the crates. They had me hooked right there, fictional as hell, but hooked. You can check by 4-Star Review here.

Being Evel – “A generation of Americans grew up worshipping self-styled hero Evel Knievel–watching him every Saturday on Wide World of Sports and buying his Ideal toys. But few knew the incredible and often complex aspects of his epic life, which, like his jumps, was sometimes glorious and sometimes disastrous.”  That about sums up the entire movie! You can read my review of the film here.

Ghost Rider – Ok… spit balls welcome!  But I like this movie, and the motorcycle scenes were well done. If you know the comic book you know the story.  If you do not know the comic you know the story, “man sells soul to the devil and things don’t go well”.

Never Ride Alone – Not only did he ride his dirt bike alone Scott Englund also was the star, director, editor, cameraman, narrator, and everything else. For a one man project this film turned out wonderfully.  I give it a 5-Star review.

The Flying Dutchmen – a touching story about how Jonathan Helmuth created an extraordinary experience for a man that had been friend, mentor, and large part of his life. His friend Daryl Zook is going blind, and Jonathan wants to fulfill Daryl’s desire to take a 3000-mile motorcycle trip from Daryl’s home in Indiana to the Pacific Northwest coast. Daryl is more than a “bit” curmudgeonly and this leads to some humorous moments as well as some not so humorous.  You can see my 4-Star review here.

Harley and the Davidsons – With literary licenses fully engaged, Discovery Channel tells the story of how Harley Davidson came to be.  A fun show that you should find time to watch.

Ride on, Ride Safe

Motorcycle Recall December 2020: Honda, Kawasaki X2, Triumph

Posted: December 29, 2020 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle news, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States, 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.

*****

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Summary  Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Africa Twin Adventure Sports (CRF1000L) and 2020 Africa Twin Adventure Sports (CRF1100L) motorcycles. Contaminants inside the fuel tank may cause the fuel filter to clog, possibly resulting in an engine stall.

Remedy  Honda will notify owners, and dealers will drain and clean the fuel tank, and replace the fuel filter assembly, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 15, 2021. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KL4.

*****

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

Components ENGINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Potential Number of Units Affected 1,770

Summary  Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2021 Z400 ABS (ER400D), Ninja 400 (EX400H) and Ninja 400 ABS (EX400G) motorcycles. The strength of the camshaft chain tensioner may be insufficient due to improper heat treatment, possibly causing it to be damaged.

Remedy  KMC will notify owners, and dealers will replace the camshaft chain tensioner, free of charge. Note: Owners are advised to not ride their motorcycles until the repair has been completed. The recall began December 21, 2020. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC’s number for this recall is MC20-13.

*****

Manufacturer Triumph Motorcycles America, LTD

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary  Triumph Motorcycles America, LTD (Triumph) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Rocket 3 GT, Rocket 3 R, and 2020 Rocket 3 TFC motorcycles. Air could have entered the antilock brake system (ABS) modulator while the rear brake system was filled during production.

Remedy  Triumph will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the rear brake system, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Triumph customer service at 1-678-854-2010. Triumph’s number for this recall is SRAN 587.

*****

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

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary  Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2021 Ninja ZX-14R motorcycles. The front brake master cylinder may be missing an internal component, which can cause inconsistent front braking force.

Remedy  KMC will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front brake master cylinder, free of charge. Note: Owners are advised to not ride their motorcycle until the repair is complete. The recall began December 4, 2020. Owners may contact Kawasaki customer service at 1-866-802-9381. Kawasaki’s number for this recall is MC20-11.

*****

Ride on, Ride Safe

Click here for the November 2020 Motorcycle Recall List

Motorcycle News – Realignment in the Motorcycle industry.

Posted: December 8, 2020 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, Motorcycle racing
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Downshift – Realignment in the Motorcycle industry.

Suzuki – Suzuki Motor of America has announced a restructuring of US operations. Suzuki Motorcycles/ATV and the Marine Division will be split into separate companies on April 1st, 2021.

The motorcycle company will be headquartered in California, the marine company in Florida.

Kawasaki – Kawasaki Heavy Industries will spin off the motorcycle and “rolling stock (trains)” divisions as part of a major restructuring as the company faces a $47 million-dollar operating loss.

Hashimoto Yasuhiko stated that he hopes the motorcycle division will continue to build the brand and revitalize the market through collaboration with other companies.

Ducati – Volkswagen is again looking to sell Ducati and is hosting preliminary talks with potential bidders.  It appears that they are packaging Lamborghini and Ducati for a sell off.  Selling them together or separately is still unknown

Sources are reporting that the sale process may begin in early 2021. VW has not officially confirmed this activity.

Harley Davidson – Has dropped several new products, their new street fighter “The Bronx” for example, closed plants and most recently begin the process to pull out of India. Although now they are using Hero as a distribution partner in India and, in one article, will allow Hero to brand some of their motorcycles as Harley Davidson.

Harley also just pulled out of all factory sponsored racing.

This is all part of their new “re-wired” restructuring plan. 

My take – There is a major shift going on in the world of motorcycling and not for the better. 

Long term I feel that their will be a shrinking of manufacturing not all makers will survive. Governments around the world are pushing for all vehicles to go electric, but battery range for motorcycles just are not anywhere near comparable with fossil fuel engines.

Tie that with the Vision Zero desire to eliminate traffic deaths, which would require the removal of motorcycles from the road, and the on-coming autonomous vehicle revolution … can motorcycles survive?

So, I do not have a lot of hope for long term viability of motorcycling. Sigh.

But, there are a few good signs. Norton and BSA are going to make motorcycle again and both in Britian!

Reply to this post and tell me I am wrong.

Holiday Gift Ideas for your Motorcycle Crazy Person in 2020.

Posted: December 2, 2020 in Motorcycle
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Have a motorcycle enthusiast (aka Crazy Biker) on your naughty or nice list?  Here are 9 gift giving ideas to make their 2020 holiday a little bit better.

9. A New Motorcycle Jacket – All equipment gets old and needs to be replaced. Look at the condition of your crazy biker’s jacket does it need to be replaced?  I have been using the Viking Cycle Enforcer Motorcycle Jacket for a couple years now and I am quite happy with it.  Check out my review of this jacket.

8. Motorcycle Art – Ran across this a few months ago on Amazon…your rider’s name spelled out, in pictures of motorcycle parts.  I do not own this, but I might just get one from myself. Check out Personalized Motorcycle Name Art – Harley, Indian, and Honda on Amazon

7. New tie-down straps – Another piece of equipment that gets old, but one that is especially important if your crazy biker tows or hauls their bike(s).  Steal a glance at their current straps, look worn or about to be worn out, get them a new set.

6. Custom Dynamic Motorcycle Lights – Custom Dynamic makes SUPER bright, eye catching lighting for motorcycles.  I have several sets on my bike and wish I had more! In particular, look at the ProBeam LED Motorcycle Turn Signals. 

ijustwant2ride

These turn signal lights are really DIY

If I could get a commission on every purchase of Custom Dynamic lights I have influenced, I would never have to pay for this website again.

5. A Gift Card – from their favorite local dealership.  That way they can pick out what they want!

4.  New Motorcycle Gloves – Is your crazy biker’s glove a bet nasty? Now is the time to gift them a new pair. Some consideration, vented for warm weather or waterproof for the rainy day?  Or heated for the cold months?

3. Battery Tender – Winter is here in the northern hemisphere. This gift will help your crazy biker be ready to roll the first chance they get. No recommendation, they are almost all good. Just make sure you get the right connection for their motorcycle.

2. A Branded Hat – cause, you know, helmet hair!

1. Membership in the AMA – That is the American Motorcycle Association.  Membership not only gets discounts on products it also includes emergency towing. The AMA is the largest, but not the only, lobbyist group protecting your right to ride.

Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle Recall November 2020: Zero, Kawasaki, Helmets

Posted: November 30, 2020 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States, 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.

*****

Manufacturer Zero Motorcycles Inc.

Components EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Summary Zero Motorcycles Inc. (Zero) is recalling certain 2020 SR/F and SR/S motorcycles. The front brake switch can fail from water getting into the switch.

Remedy Zero will notify owners, and dealers will the replace the front brake switch, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 30, 2020. Owners may contact Zero customer service at 1-888-841-8085. Zero’s number for this recall is SV-ZMC-021-020.

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

Components POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Ninja H2 SX, Ninja H2 SXSE, and 2019-2020 Ninja H2 SXSE+ motorcycles. In the event of a gear mis-engagement the engine electronic control unit (ECU) programming doesn’t have the
capability to suppress high RPM during transmission. If the transmission gears are not properly engaged while shifting into 4th or 5th gear, high engine RPM can cause the output gears of 4th or 5th to fracture when the gears re-engage.

Remedy KMC will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owners are advised to not ride their motorcycle until the repair has been completed. The recall began November 16, 2020. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC’s number for this recall is MC20-10.

*****

Manufacturer Leather on Wheels Inc

Summary Leather On Wheels Inc (Leather On Wheels) is recalling certain WCL Helmets, model Polo, part number 666, in all sizes produced 9/1/14 through 3/16/20. The helmet may not adequately reduce the amount of force the wearer experiences during an impact. As such, these helmets fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard FMVSS 218, “Motorcycle Helmets.”

Remedy Leather On Wheels will notify owners, and dealers will provide a credit or replace the helmet, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 20, 2020. Owners may contact Leather On Wheels customer service at 1-587-583-0070.

*****

Ride on, Ride Safe

Click here for the list of October 2020 Motorcycle Recalls

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