We have been moving from our former home in Leesburg to a new “temporary” home in Front Royal, VA. The reason, I thought we were at the top of a sellers’ market and wanted to cash in before it faded.
So now being in Front Royal it is time to get out and discover new roads on my motorcycle. We live about 3 miles from the northern terminus of Skyline Drive Parkway but that was not my destination this time. I wanted to try something new.
Leaving my new neighborhood on a cool, for a dramatic change, morning I turned west and headed to Strasburg on State Route 55. The morning light dappled through the tree cover creating a crazy show of shadows and light. It was a quite and very uneventful ride to Strasburg.
The road into Strasburg proper is a mess right now, I don’t know what they are trying to do but watch yourself on the uneven and rough road up to the traffic light at the intersection of 55 and 11.
Strasburg seems to be a pretty cool town with a brewery, antiques and art boutiques mixed in with the normal main street business. Murals seem to adorn, what was, every blank wall giving the town a renaissance feel. I had hoped to find a diner for some breakfast, but I did not, which given everything else on Main Street seemed odd.
Taking State Route 11 out of town I was now headed down the Shenandoah Valley. Passing though the small towns of Toms’ Brook, Maurertown, Woodstock (not that Woodstock), and Edinburg. I admired the views from the valley, mountains rising from both the left and right framed the valley and the small towns in a way you can’t get from inside a car.
When I reached Mount Jackson I decided to turn around and head back the way I had come. There were other ways to make it back to Front Royal but there were places I wanted to stop and take photos. For my first motorcycle foray into Shenandoah region, I was quite happy. I look forward to more local trips in and round Front Royal.
An older Skyline Drive motorcycle ride post – 2015
Typically, I attend the “Big” International Motorcycle Show series that feature all the major manufactures which, normally, occurs in winter in my region of the world. This year I will attend not only that show, but also the IMS Outdoor event as well. One reason is how starved I am for in person motorcycle events but also because a friend of this blog is going to be a presenter.
Progressive IMS Outdoors motorcycle shows are offering presentations on “RVing with motorcycles, sidecars, and trikes”. Lucinda Belden is the new presenter, and her sidecar will be on center stage for a half hour show two times per day at each event. From August – October she will be covering six event locations nationally talking about how RV and motorcycles work together.
Lucinda is the proprietor of “Direction Wide Open” or DWO. DWO is Lucinda’s, and her husband Will, place to share their RV and Motorcycle adventures with family, friends, and future friends. They are two full-time RVers and avid motorcyclists, sidecarists (is that really a word?).
Lucinda is the proprietor of “Direction Wide Open” or DWO. DWO is Lucinda’s, and her husband Will, place to share their RV and Motorcycle adventures with family, friends, and future friends. They are two full-time RVers and avid motorcyclists, sidecarists (is that really a word?).
I can’t congratulate Lucinda enough; it is always tough to get a break into any industry but through her and Will’s hard work she is going to be telling a story many of us will want to hear.
Hey guys, I am in a middle of a move and have not provided as much content lately. Please stand by for a bit while I get back to normal… whatever that is!
Up Shift – Entire Family to Race at the Amateur Championship – The entire Rau family is going to the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s motorcycle complex! This is the first time that a mom, dad, and son have pulled this type of hat trick.
Mom and dad (Tressa & Justin) qualified for the Senior (40+) and son (Jett) made the cut in the Mini-E Junior (4-6) class.
My Take – This is one of those, “Isn’t that cool!” items. Congratulations to the Rau family and I hope they all make the podium for another amateur motocross racing first!
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Up Shift – New Harley Davidson Sportster – If you did not see this coming, I don’t know what to say to you. The ever changing and tightening emission standards is slowing ending the air-cooled era of motorcycling. Lament if you wish, but the old engine just could not compete in this modern world.
The 50+ year old Sportster name continues at Harley Davidson with an all-new motorcycle. The new Sportster brings the Harley Revolution Max engine and 121 horses (from 1252cc) as a major upgrade to the name.
To help tame that horsepower the new Sportster has lean-sensitve Antilock brakes, wheelie control, traction control and “Drag Torque Slip Control” to reduce rear wheel lockup during engine braking.
My Take – At first glance this new Sportster looks a like the FXDR from a few years ago. A lot of styling points from that bike made it to the Sportster. I do like the styling; I do like the performance upgrade, and I understand why Harley Davidson had to make the change to old bloodline. I have not yet had an opportunity to ride this motorcycle, but I will make the time to do so. At a $15,000 US starting point it seems to align with many of its competitors.
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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Manufacturer Suzuki Motor USA, LLC
Components FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Burgman 200 UH200 scooters. The fuel hose assembly may leak fuel.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel hose assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 20, 2021. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at (714) 572-1490. Suzuki’s number for this recall is 2A97.
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Manufacturer Aprilia USA, Inc.
Components ENGINE
Summary
Aprilia is recalling certain 2021 RS 660 and Tuono 660 motorcycles. The engine crankshaft connecting rod may break due to improper heat-treatment.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 9, 2021. Owners may contact Aprilia customer service at 1-212-380-4400. Aprilia’s number for this recall is PA2ZZQ2107.
Each year I post my top 10 weird motorcycle list, you can see last years winners here. As crazy as some of the “modern” motorcycles are, our forefathers built some crazy stuff too!
Check out the following “vintage” or “old school” wild and weird motorcycles. If you have more or better please pass them along in the comment section.
Hey guys, I am in a middle of a move and have not provided as much content as normal lately. Please stand by for a bit while I get back to normal… what ever that is!
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Hitting Neutral – Certified Pre-owned Harley Davidsons – Somewhere along the line I missed this news item. Back in November 2019 Harley Davidson started a new program to the “Certified Pre-Owned program
This program will, if you buy from an authorized US dealer, provided used motorcycles that have been through a 110 point inspection and certified by Harley. If you buy a certified pre-owned motorcycle, you will get a 1-year warranty and roadside assistance.
My Take – My first thought “why have they not been doing this for years”? Then, “This might help some folks make that decision to buy a bike”. Then, “Oh well, moving on”.
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Up Shift – One of the fastest men on a motorcycle does not have a license to ride on the street! – If you have won 6 straight World Superbike championships, and the front runner for #7, one would think you have had motorcycle licenses most of your life, right?
Apparently not, but even world champion Jonathan Rea must take the official course to get the licenses.
My Take – LOL… to funny. But I am glad he is doing this it will help show folks that everyone is on the same playing field when it comes to safety. You can check out how well he does on his videos.
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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Manufacturer LeMans Corporation
Components WHEELS
Summary LeMans Corporation is recalling certain Drag Specialties replacement laced motorcycle rear wheels, with part number 0204-0369 and size 16″ x 3.00″. The holes for the spokes in the hub are misaligned, which could result in broken spokes.
Remedy Dealers will replace the rear wheel, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6, 2021. Owners may contact LeMans Corporation customer service at 1-608-758-1111.
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Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Components EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Super Cub C125, CB500X, CB650R, CBR300R, CBR500R, CBR650R, Rebel 300, Rebel 500, Monkey, 2020 CRF250L, GROM, 2021 CRF300L, and CB500F motorcycles. The rear reflector lens may not reflect brightly enough. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.”
Remedy Dealers will replace the rear reflector, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KM3.
We originally passed through Goshen a few years ago during one of our motorcycle tours of Virginia.
Goshen is a quaint town bordering the George Washington National Forest the nearest “big towns” are Staunton and Lexington VA.
One of the things that interested me was the Goshen Truss Bridge. Not the best light for good photos but you get the idea. Built in 1890 it was the height of bridge engineering at the time.
This is the 30th anniversary of the ride to promote the role of motorcycles as an option in the daily commute. This event originated in the United States but quickly grew into an international event.
By riding to work we demonstrate:
The number of motorcyclists to the general public and to politicians.
That motorcyclists are from all occupations and all walks of life.
That motorcyclists can reduce traffic and parking congestion in large cities.
That motorcycles are for transportation as well as recreation.
Some may ask, as we are still in the era of Covid and a large number of folks are still working from home, how can I participate without a commute? Do as I am going to do….. Ride for 30 minutes before you start your home office workday!
Maybe I should ride for 30 minutes everyday before work?????
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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Manufacturer Ducati North America
Components EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2021 Scrambler 800 Night Shift motorcycles. The front and rear turn signal lights may not flash brightly enough. As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.”
Remedy Dealers will replace the front and rear turn signals, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 23, 2021. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446. Ducati’s number for this recall is SRV-RCL-21-009.
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Manufacturer Ducati North America
Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2015-2021 Monster 821, 2014-2021 Monster 1200 S/STD, and 2016-2019 Monster 1200 R motorcycles. The rear brake hoses may be susceptible to heat damage.
Remedy Dealers will replace the rear brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 23, 2021. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446.
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Manufacturer Ducati North America
Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2017-2020 Monster 797, Monster 1200, Supersport, 2016-2020 XDiavel, and 2018-2020 Monster 821 motorcycles. Air may permeate the rear bake system.
Remedy Dealers will install new rear brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 17, 2021. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446.
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Manufacturer Arcimoto Inc
Components SEAT BELTS
Summary Arcimoto Inc (Arcimoto) is recalling certain 2019-2021 FUV, 2020 Deliverator, 2021 Rapid Responder motorcycles. The seat belt retractor spool sleeve may be cracked, allowing broken pieces to block the seat belt from retracting.
Remedy A service technician will replace the seat belt retractor, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 31, 2021. Owners may contact Arcimoto customer service at 1-541-683-6293.
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Manufacturers Arcimoto Inc
Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary Arcimoto Inc (Arcimoto) is recalling certain 2019-2021 FUV, 2021 Rapid Responder, 2020 Deliverator, 2020-2021 Roadster. Due to a software error, communication between inverters may time out, possibly resulting in an unexpected battery shutdown.
Remedy A service technician to reprogram the inverter firmware, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 12, 2021. Owners may contact Arcimoto customer service at 1-541-683-6293. Note: Vehicles previously repaired under Recall 19V834 will need to return for the new remedy.
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Manufacturer Arcimoto Inc
Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, STEERING
Summary Arcimoto Inc (Arcimoto) is recalling certain 2019-2021 FUV, 2020 Deliverator, 2020-2021 Roadster, and 2021 Rapid Responder motorcycles. The Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) may have been incorrectly calibrated, causing the SAS to fail to or incorrectly detect a fault.
Remedy A service technician will update the firmware and replace the idler arm, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Arcimoto customer service at 1-541-683-6293.
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Manufacturer KTM North America, Inc.
Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary KTM North America, Inc. (KTM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 KTM 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R, and 2020 KTM 790 Adventure R Rally motorcycles. The front brake master cylinder piston return spring may be too weak to return the brake piston to its original position, reducing the functionality of the front brake.
Remedy Dealers will replace the return spring, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact KTM customer service at 1-888-985-6090. KTM’s number for this recall is KTM2106.
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Manufacturer Suzuki Motor USA, LLC
Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2019-2020 UH200 motorcycles. The speedometer assembly resistors may corrode and cause a loss of power to the wheel speed sensor, preventing the speedometer and odometer from displaying information.
Remedy Dealers will replace the speedometer assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 24, 2021. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 714-572-1490 or http://www.suzukicycles.com.
I JUST WANT 2 RIDE!! 