Posts Tagged ‘Motorcycle’

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If you follow custom motorcycles you have seen Mr. Fairless’s work!  His work has been in multiple motorcycle magazines and he has appeared on TV shows such as Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off.

His shop, Strokers Dallas, sells custom motorcycles and also includes a bar and grill.  If you are interested you can also get a tattoo while you are waiting on your burger as Strokers has its own tattoo and piercing parlor.

Rick also has his own Vlog called the DUM ASS Club, check it out when you can.

1) What is the craziest thing you have done on or to a motorcycle?

Rick: In my younger days, back when it was legal, I used to drink beer while I would ride my Super Glide.  Seems kind of crazy now but back in the day it was legal and not that unusual in Texas. In my younger days back when it was legal I used to drink beer while I would ride my super glide. Seems kind of crazy now but back in the day it was legal and not that unusual in Texas.

2) What is the third most important thing in your life?

Rick: My 69 Chevy pickup.

3) What “Guinness” type world record would like to break?

Rick: Most consecutive days in a row of play golf.

4) What is the longest trip, by motorcycle, that you have taken?

Rick: Dallas to San Francisco and back.  We kind of made a big loop. It was awesome!

5) Where/what is the number one place you want to vast or ride on a motorcycle?

Rick: Europe!

6) In the movie of your life, who would play you?

Rick: A young Clint Eastwood.

6 1/2) If you could ask yourself and informative, direct, motorcycle related question what would you ask and how would you answer?

Rick: I would ask myself “How did you get started in this business, my answer would be passion.”  I would also ask myself “How have I survived this long in business, my answer would be “get up early, work hard all day and good things will happen!””

Last year I posted my 9 Weird Motorcycles for 2015 and there were some real strange ones on that list.   This year there is just as many wild ones.

I just saved the pictures of the weirdest, custom motorcycles though out the year from Facebook, Twitter and where ever else I ran across them.  The list of candidates for 2016 weird motorcycles was very large so I decided to post about the top “runners-up” in this category.  I will post the weird winners in a few days.

If you have any candidates you would like to submit for the 2017 list of weird motorcycles, just let me know!

Check out he following links!

 

Hilariously Confused Dad Is Overwhelmed By Daughter’s Gift Of A New Bike

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Pule Jets and Motorcycles?  Why not?  We also talked about this on the DawgHouse Motorcycle Radio show #393.

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Bosch wins a CES 2017 innovation award for their motorcycle technology.

 

The 2017 Honda Rebel is a rad reboot!

 

Rambo the Motorcycle Riding Alligator!

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So why 9?  Because everyone does 10 and 11 is too much work.

First of all this list is not for one of those around the globe motorcycle adventure trips.  I will not be mentioning things like lion repellant, spare tires or satellite phones.  These tips are more for that multi-day to couple week trips via normal roads/interstates motorcycle trips.

These tips are primarily based on our own experiences and may or may not be fully applicable to you.  However, Debbie and I are not any different then you guys so I hope that the tips get you to at least think about a particular item.

9.  Carry a few tools.  Yes, this is dependent on the type of motorcycle you ride.  A sport bike is not going to carry as much as a touring bike.  At a minimum get a multi-tool that is appropriate to your bike.  By that I mean, if your multi-tool has a hex tool but your bike has Torx screws, it is not going to be of much use.   Here is what I carry on the Harley Davidson Ultra Limited:

Multi-tool that came with the motorcycle, which turns out is quite limited based on our summer 2015 trip.

Mini screwdriver and ratchet sets with Torx, hex and standard bits in the sizes I need for my motorcycle.

Stop n Go tire Repair kit.

8. The weather is going to change, be prepared.  No matter what you think is going to happen, plan on getting wet or cold or both.  Again what you can carry is dependent on the motorcycle you ride.  At a minimum you should carry rain gear.  You need to stop and put on the rain gear as soon as you know that it is not a tiny little shower, especially if you are in the mountains.  It sucks to put on your rain gear after you are soaking and then the temp drops.b1

7. ATGATT  All The Gear All The Time – Every time I see or hear this I can’t help but think of the green Martians from the cult classic movie “Mars Attacks” (ack ack).  But what it should mean is good boots, motorcycle pants and jackets that are armored and abrasion resistant and a full face helmet.  I know that I do not do this all the time myself, it is something that we all know we should do!

6. Start Early End Early – This one is more from personal experiences with longer motorcycle trips.  After so many years in the army I still wake up early.  Because of that I get on the road early and, depending on where you are riding, that can get us out before traffic gets heavy.  It also allows you to beat the heat in the summer months, for a while anyway.  By ending early you have time to get your motorcycle unloaded and prepared for the next day, give you time for a shower and a bit of rest before dinner.  I like to be kickstand up no later than 7AM and stopped for the evening no later than 5PM.  This also helps with any bickering or sniping with your passenger because you are both tired or hot or cold.

5. Get in a Routine – Load and unload your motorcycle the same way in the same order.  Do your post ride checks in the same way at the same time (after diner). A routine of this nature will help ensure you do not forget anything while loading and unloading.  It will help to ensure that you perform your ride checks and preparation.b4

4. Inspect your bike at night – As part of your routine, do your T-CLOCS before you close down for the evening.  Wipe down the grime on your windshield/faring and if you have room to carry one, cover your bike.  Performing these activities on your motorcycle each night, I like to do mine after dinner, will allow you to be on the road little quicker in each morning. Do it in the evening or in the morning, but on all long motorcycle trips you need to do it every day.  Things become loose or need attention, better to find out when you are parked.

3. Snack Smart – Eating a big turkey leg at noon and then riding on the interstate might cause you get a bit sleepy.  Snack smart is just a tip to make sure that you can operate your motorcycle in the best manner possible.  Drinking soda or coffee might not be the best option over water or a sports drink on those days where heat might be a concern.  If you are on one of those rides where you only stop for gas consider adding a cup holder or hydration pack to your ride kit. Additionally, consider what you eat, would a banana be better for your riding or do you really, really want that turkey leg!!!

2. Tweak don’t Twerk –  Move around on the seat to stay comfortable and avoid saddle sores on a long motorcycle trip.  This is easy on a touring bike, with larger seats, highway pegs and large footboards the touring motorcyclist has it easy over the sport bike riders.  But, either way, you have to remain a comfortable as possible.  If you plan on lots of long distance riding, look into getting a seat that really fits your seat.

1. Stop and smell the roses! – Yes we all know we need frequent breaks but, if your breaks are only gas stations you are likely missing out.  If you see something that peaks your interest check it out!  Even if you have to turn around and go back to get the picture with the giant roller skate do it.  You might never know what you are missing…. maybe dinosaurs! b-2

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Premiering tonight at 9PM EST on The Esquire Network (formerly Spike TV) is the latest entry into Motorcycle TV “Wrench Against the Machine”.

According to Esquire’s web site Wrench Against the Machine is:

“The country’s most prestigious motorcycle builders put their reputations on the line in the ultimate test of creativity and craftsmanship. Each episode pits two teams in a head-to-head battle, with only three days and $3,000 to transform basic stock motorcycles into rowdy, riding, works of art.”

So from my POV an updated, bearded, DIY, “Biker Build Off” mashup with “Junk Yard Wars” or “Trading Spaces”.  This motorcycle TV sounds interesting to me so I hope to see it in the future.

Now, I do not get The Esquire Network as part of the “packages” on my TV provider but I am hoping that it will be part of the providers “On-Demand” offering.  Check out the “sneak peek” video below.

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Motorcycles are one of the most sought after vehicles, not only for those great people that want to purchase one of their own to ride and enjoy, but also for those that lean towards the darker side of life and seek bikes out to steal. Yes, motorcycles are a huge commodity for thieves and other unscrupulous souls who enjoy taking what they can get and making a profit off it even when it does not belong to them. As a legal bike owner, there are a few things you may want to consider to keep your bike safe from thieves and ready for you to ride when you need to unwind with a little solitude down a long and winding road.

The summer months between July and September are the months with the highest risk for bike theft while the months between November and March have the least risk. This means that right now is the perfect time of year to get your bike geared up for the upcoming spring and summertime. If you live in states including California, Texas or Florida, you may benefit from knowing that these states have the highest risk of theft in the U.S. for motorcycles and being diligent when it comes to security is a wise decision to make. When you own a great motorcycle, keeping it safe should be a top priority.

Averting Bike Theft

There are numerous ways to avert bike theft and help keep your motorcycle safe and sound from thieves. A few of these ideas for security include:

  • Install an alarm
  • Lock the ignition
  • Lock the motorcycle to a building
  • Keep the bike in a locked garage
  • Install a remote engine kill switch

Something that many bikers try is to have large chains to hold the bike in place securely. While this is something that may cause thieves think twice before they approach a bike they may be attempting to steal, it also makes it a bit arduous for the bike owner to have to carry around a large, and usually heavy, chain or to find somewhere to store it when parking in public. Another drawback to a large chain is that on many bikes, chains simply will not fit on a modern bike in any area that would prevent theft. So, if a bulky chain is out of the question, what type of locks work the best when trying to prevent motorcycle theft?

Locks That Work

Bulky chains aside, there are a few great locks that work well when you need to keep the bike safe whether it is parked at home or in the middle of a crowded parking lot. Here are just a few of the better locks available on the market today:

Ground Anchors with Locks

The Immobiliser Self Fit Defiant Ground Anchor, made in Britain by Almax Security Chains, attaches into concrete or brick and has a 15 ton pull resistance. It is a very solid anchor system and with its roller construction it is impenetrable to hacksaws and other common tools that thieves will try to use.

Disc Locks

Disc Locks have been found to be an exceptional way to keep a bike locked safely to prevent theft. One great disc lock, the Xena XX15 Disc Lock produced by Revzilla, includes a maximum security barrel and key, a double locking system and an alarm that is triggered by motion and shock to produce a very loud, piercing squeal that is sure to garner a great deal of attention.

Standard Locks

While large, bulky chains may be out of the but Kryptonite, an action sports security supplier, manufactures locks and chains that are secure, simple to use and easy to carry when riding. With a simple lock and key, you can chain your bike to a post or wall with an anchor where the bike will be safe while you are away.

Home Security for Bikes

A great deal of bikers think about keeping their bikes safe when they are traveling or when they need to park for an extended time, but some fail to consider the one place that needs to be secure. Your home. Whether your motorcycle is parked in the driveway, on the street in front of the house or even safely tucked away in the garage, security should be a top concern, especially at home.

Thieves will watch a home to see what your habits are. They will learn when you leave the house, when you return and even what time the lights go out which signals to them that you have retired for the night. Hiring a top notch security firm to come out and install security cameras on your property is the perfect way to deter a thief because when they see a camera, they know they will risk being caught by the police if they steal the bike. If the bike is garaged, having an alarm installed is a good idea to prevent break-ins and to keep the bike safe while indoors. Having adequate home security when you own a motorcycle, whether the bike is valued at $5000 or $50,000, is the best way to keep your bike as well as you and your family, safe from thieves and other crime.

*** Neither Jason or IJUSTWANT2RIDE are endorsing any of the mentioned products.  The intent of this article is to give you ideas on products that you should research for yourself. ***

Jason Mueller is an entrepreneur living in Costa Rica with family from Canada.  After graduating from high school and getting his pilot’s licence he lived to travel the world looking for adventure.  He is currently working with A-1 Auto and is the owner of Jaco Ropes.

Jason has also provided two additional guest posts to this blog.  Shipping Your Bike Overseas? Things to consider!  and Motorcycle Riding in Paradise; Costa Rica.  Check them out when you have some time!

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Hey DawgHouse Motorcycle News, Rants & Racing listeners (and IJUSTWANT2RIDE blog folks)  K&N Filters has a special offer for you!
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ijustwant2ride.com

E15 can kill your motorcycle

If you listen to the DawgHouse Motorcycle Radio podcast you know that I have some strong views on motorcycles and the EPA. Most recently it has been the forced use of E15 fuel in the face of facts.  E15 will destroy your small engine devices (i.e. lawn mowers, golf carts, weed whackers, etc.) and the engine on your motorcycle.

This is a proven fact, do a little research and you will see for yourself that our motorcycles could be intentionally damaged in the fight against global warming.  The destruction of internal combustion engines are but a small sacrifice, fodder if you will, in the noble war.

If you think that “I have a new motorcycle, it is under warranty, no problem.” think again.  Most. if not all, companies specifically exempt damage from ethanol from the warranty.  “No problem” you say, I will be careful not to use anything above E10!  Well not so fast buddy, the EPA has, intentionally I believe, approved the use of “blender pumps”.

Blender pumps are those that use a single hose/nozzle to dispense all the fuel sold at that pump.  With blender pumps it is possible to have a quart or more of whatever the person before you purchased in the hose.  If that person bought E15 or, worst yet, pure ethanol for their flex fuel car or truck you get that bonus too.  So if you have topping off your 4 gallon tank before a big ride…… you just might be invalidating your warranty and damaging your engine.

So what is driving tonight’s rant?  One of my local gas stations just installed new pumps and now sells E15 and pure ethanol.  Lucky for me it is not a blended pump (I hope) and each type of fuel has it own hose BUT the fact it is there is a danger.

So what can you do… Join the AMA, they do not win all the time but they are our best hope to influence what is going on.

 

 

I have watched 3 episodes of Discovery’s newest motorcycle themed TV show.  As noted in an earlier blog post this is another in the networks “motorcycle builder” TV show history.  For more you can go to the Discovery Channel’s website to find out more. 

Based on the commercials, I did not have a lot of high hopes for the networks newest b2motorcycle TV show.  I expected a late Gen-X or Millennial version of American Chopper.  Motorcycle builds with lots of drama, yelling and some forced “stuff”. 

I was right but,  I was wrong too.  These guys seem to get along and honestly like each other.  I think they would be building motorcycles in the same manner whether or not there was a TV crew hanging around.  Jason Wilson, the part time builder the show revolves around, comes across as a good guy who is trying to become a full time builder … but admits he is a terrible businessman.   

With that said, you would think that this would be just more motorcycle eye-candy TV…and you would be right.  BUT, I have caught myself genuinely smiling while watching the show.  These guys are having fun doing what they are doing and I am having fun watching them do it.  I recommend you set your DVR to record this latest motorcycle TV show. 

I am giving Scared Steel Bikes 4 out of 5 stars.

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Discovery is starting another motorcycle “builder” series this show will premiere September the 12th.  From the Discovery Channel’s website they say the following about b2the show…

“SACRED STEEL BIKES follows a diverse group of elite individuals who come from a multitude of careers. From an Automotive Engineer to a Metal Fabricator to a high-end Beverly Hills Retail Associate, artisans from all spectrums of life are united in their passion for bike building and riding. The club has granted them a motorcycle oasis to live out their alter egos.”

More from Discovery … The series centers around Jason Wilson, who opened Sacred Steel Customs over a decade ago, and his team of fellow enthusiasts. The group honed their mechanical skills and founded Douche Larouche, now a full-fledged institution, complete with bylaws, regular meetings and chapters across the country and around the globe. Described as “the ultimate anti-bike gang – full of self-proclaimed ‘motorcycle dorks,’” club members range from fabricators and childhood friends, to highly connected icons in the world of underground bikes.

Each year, Wilson and his team transform dozens of bikes into masterpieces. If the customer has the cash or the connections, there is no limit on what they can do. Through favors to other members, neighboring chapters, and friends of friends, Wilson has grown an immense clientele alongside his crew. Discovery’s “Sacred Steel” aims to capture the build along with the adrenaline-fueled world of bikers.

So set your DVRs and check out the latest in motorcycle TV.