Posts Tagged ‘sport bike’

Motorcycle Recall: May 2023 – NONE!

Posted: May 30, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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I think this is only the 2nd time we had an entire month without a recall!!!

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

Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle News: Hydrogen Motorcycles and the Top 5 Motorcycle Insurance Companies!

Posted: May 22, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news
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ijustwant2ride.com

Up Shift – Hydrogen Motorcycle Engines and Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki

The big 4 motorcycle manufacturers have joined forces to push the development of hydrogen engines. Their agreement has some specifics built into it so it may not just be “signaling”.  Each manufacture has specific responsibilities in this effort, for example:

           Honda will lead the research and development of the hydrogen engines.

           Suzuki will work on performance & reliability of hydrogen powered motors.

           Yamaha is to study how to establish hydrogen refueling systems.

           Kawasaki is working on the fuel supply issue.

Also, the way I read some of the different articles on this effort, Toyota is cooperating in this project.

My Take – This is nothing but good news.  These companies are responsible for many of the things we take for granted every day.  With their combined efforts we may get true, real green energy in my lifetime.

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Up Shift – Motorcycle Insurance… Which company is best?

What are the best motorcycle insurance companies and what makes them the best?  I recently had an article sent to me that laid out the who and why of the top 5 motorcycle insurers.

This article not only laid out the top 5 companies but also pointed out the pro’s and con’s of each along with the methodology of how they reach their conclusions. I underlined that last bit because, often, that is never included.

Who made the list …. In alphabetical order.   

           Dairyland

           Erie

           Geico

           State Farm

           Progressive

You can read the article and see who finished in the top spot for yourself.

The study/list was conducted by www.Marketwatch.com.

My Take: We all have to buy insurance and just like taxes it is a necessary evil. I really like that Marketwatch.com put this list together ALONG with how they ranked ordered the companies.

Turns out that I am using one of the top 5 to cover my motorcycles and I had to agree with their findings on that company!

Ride on, Ride Safe

Motorcycle Riding around Front Royal: Fort Valley Road

Posted: May 16, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring
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Front Royal sets at the northern end of Skyline Drive one of the premier motorcycling destinations on the east coast.  Thousands of motorcyclists pass through Front Royal on their way to Skyline Drive or to parts unknow as they leave the Drive.  At most they spend a night in town before heading on their way.

However, riders should spend a day or two riding in the Front Royal area. There are more than a few great riding roads and routes that will appeal to every motorcycle rider. Adventure bikers, you can check out the availability of roads in the Geroge Washington National Forest as some become open to motorcycles, there is even a Jeep “Trail of Honor” that will put your skills to the test.

Fort Valley was first surveyed by George Washington in 1748. Washington would later make plans for Fort Valley to be his winter retreat, had the revolutionary army been defeated, as it has a lot of natural defensive features.

Between the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, the valley was a major source of pig iron for the new nation. During the Civil War the mountains surrounding the valley served as observation post for the Confederate Army, overlooking multiple local battles.

Canyon Carving and Valley Riding

One of the best kept motorcycle riding roads is Fort Valley Road.  A ride that is part canyon carving and chill’n valley riding.  The ride will take about 2-3 hours, depending on how often you stop to take pictures or visit some of the local attractions along the way.

Once you turn onto Fort Valley Road it just a few minutes before you are whipping your motorcycle through a tight canyon.  Rock wall cliffs on one side and a sharp drop into creek on the other will keep you attention very tightly focused.  After a while, that canyon passage will open into a farming valley.

You will ride for miles through a mix of green and amber fields intermixed with forest treescapes. This is part of the ride that will have you setting back and admiring the views of the steep mountains to your left and right and the family farms you motorcycling though. 

But before long you are at the southern end of the valley where you will encounter an unmarked section of the road.  This part of Fort Valley Road is a steep climb out of the valley through twists and tight hairpin curves. As soon as you crest the top of the mountain you will begin a just as steep drop to the bottom of the mountain.  The views of the Shenandoah Valley as you descend can be quite awesome.

Once at the bottom you will leave Fort Valley Road and make your way back to Front Royal via US 340.  You will find that when you get back you just might want to do this loop a second time.

Local Highlights along the ride:

Front Royal Visitors Center

George Washington National Forest

Fort Valley Museum (open irregularly)

Skyline Caverns

The route:

From the Front Royal Visitors Center

Right on Main Street

Right on Royal Street = US 55 and 340

Left on Quadrant Road = US 55 (as you cross the bridge)

Left on Strasburg Road = US 55

Left on Fort Valley Road = VA 678

Straight on Fort Valley Road / Camp Roosevelt Road = VA 675

Left on North Egypt Bend Road = VA 684

Right on Bixlers Ferry Road = VA 675

Left on North Broad Street = US 340

Right on Main Street Front Royal

Steal these Motorcycle Memes!

Posted: May 9, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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safety

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness month. It is important to get the word out to your non-riding friends and family!

I don’t own any of these photos about motorcycle safety, but I have gathered them from across the internet. I think “Fair Use” is in full operation in regard to their use.


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

safety
safety

Make Motorcycle Safety a Kids Game

Posted: May 2, 2023 in Uncategorized
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May is motorcycle safety awareness month…here is an idea to help spread awareness to the children.

As we all know, all the safety gear we wear and all the safety tech on our motorcycles are just not enough at times. Awareness of motorcycles by drivers of cars and trucks is as important as everything we do.

To help improve the awareness in others (and therefore ourselves) we need to start teaching children to watch for motorcycles. That is why the idea of teaching kids to count motorcycles instead of “punch bugs” is so important. If they are watching for motorcycles as kids they will have an easier time seeing them when they start to drive. Thus our safety as motorcyclist is improved. The payoff is in the future but let’s invest now.

Make a game that has a small reward when they spot “X” number of motorcycles. Ask your non-riding friends to do this with their children. Mention it at events and gatherings, just get the word out. You know when a 6-year-old yells “motorcycle” that their parent is going to see it to!!

RIDE ON, RIDE SAFE

Motorcycle Recall April 2023: Indian, Honda, Buell, Ducati

Posted: April 28, 2023 in Uncategorized
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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.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V293000

Manufacturer Indian Motorcycle Company

Components VISIBILITY, EQUIPMENT

Summary Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2022 Indian Chief Bobber, Indian Chief Dark Horse, and Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse motorcycles. These motorcycles may be missing a belt guard reflector. As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.”

Remedy Dealers will install a belt guard reflector, as necessary, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian’s number for this recall is I-23-05.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V261000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 Rebel 300 (CMX300) motorcycles. The right engine crank house cover was incorrectly painted, allowing the press-fit plug to fall out.

Remedy Dealers will replace the right crank case cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 5, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KP2.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V257000

Manufacturer Buell Motorcycles

Components ENGINE, POWER TRAIN

Summary Buell Motorcycles (Buell) is recalling certain 2021-2022 1190 RX and SX motorcycles. The index spring may be installed improperly.

Remedy Dealers will install the index spring in the correct position, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed in April 2023. Owners may contact Buell customer service at 1-616-719-5917.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V250000

Manufacturer Ducati North America

Components STRUCTURE

Summary Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2023 Diavel V4 motorcycles. The right and/or left side passenger foot pegs may break while mounting or riding the motorcycle.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and if necessary, replace the right and/or left side passenger foot pegs, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 3, 2023. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446. Ducati’s number for this recall is SRV-RCL-23-002.

*****

Ride On Ride Safe

Motorcycle News: Ducati Sets a Record!

Posted: April 21, 2023 in Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news
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ijustwant2ride.com NEWS REPORT
IJustWant2Ride.com News Report

Hitting Neutral – Harley Davidson Live Wire offers their second model.

Starting in the US, this July, you will be able to buy the second electric motorcycle offered by Harley Davidson’s electric division. For $15,499(US) you will be able to ride away with an S2 Del Mar capable of 0-60 in 3 seconds.

It will also have a range of 110 “city miles” and will recharge on a Level 2 charger from 20% to 80% in 75 minutes. There is no fast or super charge available currently.

My Take – This is an urban commuter motorcycle. Nothing wrong with that but, it is a niche spot that might find some traction against Zero’s offerings. The lack of a fast charger option is a bit of let down but from an urban zip around traffic commuter bike point of view it will probably work.

I test rode the Live Wire and the Zero SRF each were fantastic rides. Acceleration and handling were very good with both bikes, and they are something that people should look at if interested. But I am not yet a fan of EVs and electric motorcycles.

In the real world, outside of the urban jungle, there is still a dearth of charging stations and charging times are still incomparable to the standard conventional vehicle.  I am awaiting the evolution of hydrogen power to be pursued as hard as EV.  That will be the true zero emission vehicle.

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Up Shift – Ducati sets a new record!

For the first time ever, Ducati has recorded revenue of over $1 Billion!

This is a 24% increase over 2021 and a profit of over $100 million. This also aligns with the sale of the most Ducati motorcycles ever at 61,562 a 3.6% increase over 2021. Ducati has also expanded their dealership network to over 800.

My Take: Tie this to their race success in MotoGP and other series then I think we are in a Golden Age of Ducati.  This is well deserved success they created a plan and are executing it well. It was just a few years ago that people stated that Ducati was Italian for 8th place, can’t say that anymore!

Ride on, Ride Safe

April is Motorcycle Helmet Safety Month so let’s Talk Fitment

Posted: April 17, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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As we are in Motorcycle Helmet Safety Month, I thought we should revisit the proper fitment of your helmet.

Unfortunately, not every helmet will fit every head. Each helmet will have a sizing guide to help you ensure your head is safe and snug inside.

Sizing your Skull

When you measure your head, wrap the tape measure starting about ½ inch above your eyebrow. Next, loop it around your head, at the largest point keeping it above your ears. 

Two recommendations with the tape measure, get a friend to help you you’re your buddy can make sure the tape measure is in the right spot.  Also, measure your skull three times then calculate the average to get a closer measure of your head.

If your melon falls between two sizes of your motorcycle helmet of choice go with the smaller size.

Shape of your skull

This one is a bit harder.  Most motorcycle helmet makers really, truly do not consider the shape of our braincases.

While all human heads are, for the most part, oval, some are more round while others can be more elongated. The shape of your skull impacts how your helmet will fit.

You will have to try on a properly sized helmet to see if it fits your individual dome!

helmet

Trying the Helmet On

Does your new candidate helmet feel a little tight?  If so, that is good! Feeling a little tight or a touch uncomfortable is ok but, it should not be inducing any pain to the back of your gourd, your temples, or your forehead. Any hotspots or truly uncomfortable pressure points will be a guarantee of a miserable ride.

If it is feeling tight but not duly uncomfortable (the padding should adapt over time) now, try turning the motorcycle helmet right and left then tilting it forward and back.  If the helmet moves over your skin freely it is too big, try a smaller size.

If it seems to fit well, try to keep it on for at least 10-15 minutes. Does it still feel good? When you take it off are there any hotspots or rub marks?  If not you may have a winner. If you are having comfort issues the helmet just might be the wrong shape for your head.

Try to Pull the Helmet Off

Last step, if everything else seems to be working as it should, reach over your head and grasp the bottom/back of the helmet.  Try pulling it up and over your head.  If it comes off, try a different size.

Final thoughts

While these are my recommendations, please do your own research on proper fitment.  There are as many fitment recommendations as makers of motorcycle helmets.

Use these suggestions as a way to get started with getting a good fit.  Never trust just one website, look at as many sources of information to make sure you fully understand.

Also, you can use these fitment techniques as a starting point to determine if your current motorcycle helmet is still good to go.  Can you pull your current helmet over and off your head?  Might be a good time to replace your primary safety device.

Ride On, Ride Safe

Example of bad fitment!

April is Motorcycle Helmet Safety Month

Posted: April 10, 2023 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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Might take some work to remove the dog smell.

With April being Motorcycle Helmet Safety Month, now is a good time to check your lid. Below is a simple checklist to make sure your helmet is still good to go.

  • Is your motorcycle helmet 5 years or older? Most manufacturers state that you should replace your helmet every 3-5 years.  Many folks think that is nothing but a money grab. However, your head is protected by a Styrofoam like substance, called expanded polystyrene foam or EPS, that does degrade over time. You need to be the judge of how your head is protected.
  • Is there any visible damage to the helmet? Did you drop your motorcycle helmet that may have compressed the EPS liner? Is the shell cracked or scuffed nearly through the shell?
  • Does your helmet fit? A proper fitting helmet is critical to its ability to protect the rider. If the helmet moves around or slides back and forth it is a good idea to find a helmet that fits properly.
  • Are the straps and connectors still in good and operational condition?
  • Does the internal padding stay attach and is it in good condition?
  • Remove the padding and look at the EPS foam.  Is it in one piece? Is it cracked or dented?
  • Is your visor still in good working condition? Are there any issues that might obscure your vision?
  • Make sure there are no insects or animals living in your helmet. That is poisonous black widow spider in the picture below.

Ride On, Ride Safe

helmet

Motorcycle Recall March 2023: 80K recalls…  Can-Am Spyder, Ducati, Triumph, Royal Enfield, BMW, Polaris Slingshot, Harbor Freight Motorcycle Lift

Posted: March 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.

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: 23V175000

Manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc.

Components EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Summary Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. (BRP) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Spyder RT and 2022-2023 Ryker motorcycles. The brake lights may stay illuminated even if the brake pedal is not pressed. As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and associated Equipment.”

Remedy Depending on the model, dealers will replace the brake light switch, adjust the brake light switch, and/or add a spring to the brake light switch, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 18, 2023. Owners may contact BRP Customer Service at 1-888-272-9222. BRP’s number for this recall is 2023-6.

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 NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E021000

Manufacturer Ducati North America

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain Ducati Performance Desert X Soft Side Bags Kits with part number 96781971AA, designed to fit 2023 DesertX motorcycles. The right-side bag may contact the exhaust during motorcycle use.

Remedy As an interim action, dealers will provide owners updated assembly instructions. Once parts are available, dealers will install a new right-side bag frame. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 13, 2023. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446. Ducati’s number for this recall is SRV-RCL-23-001.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V146000

Manufacturer Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd.

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Triumph Motorcycles America, Ltd. (Triumph) is recalling certain 2023 Bonneville T120 and Bonneville T120 Black motorcycles. The left-hand side (LHS) brake disc may be improperly secured and can detach.

Remedy Dealers will install a replacement damper and also replace the disc bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 20, 2023. Owners may contact Triumph’s customer service at 1-678-854-2010. Triumph’s number for this recall is SRAN 606.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E016000

Manufacturer Harbor Freight Tools

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Harbor Freight Tools (Harbor Freight) is recalling certain Central Hydraulics High Position Motorcycle Lifts with part number 99887. The lift welds or tubing may break, which can allow the lift to fall or drop the motorcycle.

Remedy Harbor Freight will provide a refund in the form of a Harbor Freight gift card. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 28, 2023. Owners may contact Harbor Freight customer service at 1-800-444-3353.

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Manufacturer Royal Enfield North America Limited

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Royal Enfield North America Limited (Royal Enfield) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Himalayan motorcycles. The salt used to treat the roads in the winter may corrode the brake calipers, causing a decrease or total loss of brake function.

Remedy  Dealers will replace the front and rear brake calipers, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact Royal Enfield’s customer service at 1-866-600-1122. Royal Enfield’s number for this recall is SC-31.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V123000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components SERVICE BRAKES

Summary BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 S 1000 RR motorcycles. The motorcycle hand brake lever may not function correctly, reducing brake performance.

Remedy Dealers will replace the hand brake lever fulcrum pin, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 18, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

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NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V106000

Manufacturer Polaris Inc.

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Polaris Inc. (Polaris) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Slingshot R, Slingshot S with Technology Package 1, Slingshot SL, Slingshot SLR, and Slingshot S motorcycles. The alternator may have been improperly heat-treated during manufacturing.

Remedy Dealers will replace the alternator, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 8, 2023. Owners may contact Polaris’ customer service at 1-855-863-2284. Polaris’ number for this recall is T-23-01.

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RIDE ON, RIDE SAFE

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