By admin, on January 12th, 2011
It has been said that Erik Buell, founder of Buell Motorcycles, was born on a motorcycle. While that story is a bit enhanced, Erik Buell did begin riding motorcycles at the tender age of 12. His intense passion of the machine led him create a line of extreme and supreme motorcycles.
In the late 70s, Erik Buell worked his way through school by taking a part-time job at a local motorcycle dealership. He had considerable knowledge of the workings of motorcycles and quickly advanced from trainee mechanic to service manager. During this time Buell also began racing motorcycles at the amateur level. After graduation, Buell went to work as a chassis engineer for Harley-Davidson.
In 1978, Erik Buell recorded the fastest newcomer qualifying time for the Daytona 200 motorcycle race. Four years later he left Harley-Davidson to pursue his dream of designing his own race bike. In 1983, he did just that when he designed and built the RW750 motorcycle specifically to compete in the AMA Formula One road racing class.
Buell tested the RW750 motorcycle throughout 1983 and clocked a top speed of 178 mph during testing at Talladega, Alabama. The first production of the Buell RW750 was released in the fall of 1984.
The following year, the American Machinists Racing Team announced that 1985 would be the last year for Formula One racing. Buell’s type of motorcycle would be eliminated from the racing circuit. If he wanted to continue in racing, he would have to go back to the drawing board and begin his design from scratch.
Buell began working on building a world-class sportsbike, powered by the Harley-Davidson XR1000 engine. A total of fifty Buell RR1000 motorcycles were produced during 1987-88. In 1988 the Harley-Davidson XR1000 engines were discontinued and Buell had to further re-engineer his design.
The resulting RR1200 model was introduced in 1988. This model used the new 1203cc Harley-Davidson Evolution engine. Sixty-five Buell RR1200 motorcycles were produced for sale through 1989.
During this time, Buell also introduced the RS1200, a two-seat version of the RR1200 model. Over 100 of these unique models were produced through 1990.
The 1990s produced revolutionary designs to Buell motorcycles. The company expanded production facilities and added a new composite and paint shop, which led to greater flexibility and control over the manufacturing process.
In 1991, Buell introduced a single-seat version of the RS1200. The Thunderbolt S2 was introduced in 1994 under partnership with Harley-Davidson. A sport-touring version, the S2T, was added to the Buell line-up in 1995.
A new line of street bikes were introduced in 1996, including the Lightning S1 motorcycle which was voted “Hooligan Bike of the Year” by Cycle World Magazine. Other innovations included two new designs of the Thunderbolt motorcycle; the Thunderbolt S3 and the Thunderbolt S3T.
Buell introduced the Cyclone M2 touring bike in 1997 and developed the Thunderstorm engine in 1998.
In 1999, Buell rolled out completely redesigned models of the Lighting and Cyclone motorcycles. Both bikes had new body styles, frame, suspension, larger and more comfortable seats, and bold colors.
At the end of 1999, Buell’s new designs and engineering innovations pushed sales to more than 8,000 motorcycles in one year.
Buell has always maintained a close relationship with Harley-Davidson. In February 1994, Harley-Davidson purchased 49 percent of Erik Buell’s company and the new Buell Motorcycle Company was born.
Four years later, Harley-Davidson purchased another 49 percent; leaving Erik with a 2 percent share and a long term employment contract. The Buell Motorcycle Company is now a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, Inc.
By admin, on January 5th, 2011
1) Harley-Davidson’s Ride Atlas of North America. This must-have guide has a durable tear-resistant cover and contains well-designed and easy-to-read pages of scenic routes complete with detailed descriptions and maps. It also includes important information on each state page including local laws, gas station locations, and emergency roadside assistance.
2) Riding the World by Gregory Frazier. Greg Frazier has traveled around the world on his motorcycle — twice. This unique book offers expert traveling advice to motorcycle riders and includes color photos with sections on routes, motorcycle preparation, sleeping, eating, what to take, and whether to go it alone.
3) Harley-Davidson “Hog” Bank. Both young and old will enjoy saving money in this unique piggy bank. The black, ceramic bank is shaped like the Harley-Davidson motorcycle tank, with a hog face and hog legs. The “Harley-Davidson” name is applied to the side of the tank.
4) Harley-Davidson Ladies Pink Diamond Watch. Give the ladies what they love — diamonds! This gorgeous watch incorporates a stainless steel case and diamond-encrusted bracelet with a watch face made from pink mother-of-pearl. The numbers are marked with sparkling diamonds. As if that weren’t enough, this beauty is water resistant to 100 feet.
5) Harley-Davidson Men’s Orange Flame Watch. The case and bracelet are constructed from stainless steel and uses a fold-over buckle clasp. The watch face is bright blue with reflective orange flames shooting up from the bottom. The Harley-Davidson Motorcycles logo is positioned near the bottom center. The watch hands are luminous and numbers are marked by small dashes. Last, but not least, the watch is water resistant to 165 feet.
6) Harley-Davidson Women’s FXRG Gauntlet Glove. The FXRG women’s glove is the epitome of riding gloves. Manufactured from genuine leather, these gloves include a waterproof Gore-Tex(r) liner. A special water-seal system prevents water from entering around the cuffs. The knuckles and finger pads are reinforced with a polycarbonate; a protective material. The palms are constructed using an accordion design to reduce bunching and improve grip. A built-in thumb squeegee is included that allows the rider to wipe moisture off their face shield.
7) Harley-Davidson Mini Fridge. If you’re looking for a unique, yet functional mini fridge, look no further! This sleek, black beauty has chrome accents around a glass door etched with the infamous Harley-Davidson Bar and Shield logo. The tribal eagle graphic is attached to both side panels. The unit is large enough to hold up to 50 beverage cans.
 Harley-Davidson Motor Company Wall Art. Harley-Davidson wall art is a collection of various art designs that incorporate neon lighting and LED lights. One of the most popular pieces involves the Harley-Davidson motorcycle outlined in red neon lighting. The Harley-Davidson Motor Company building is in the background. A black mat features the words, “There’s No Place Like Home” printed in red ink. The Harley-Davidson logo is positioned next to the saying.
9) Harley-Davidson Men’s Heritage Jacket. This is a must-have jacket for anyone who spends time on the road. Made from 100 percent nylon, the Heritage jacket features a built-in waterproof liner, and a removal warmth liner. The elbows and shoulders include protective body armor for additional protection. The jacket is black with reflective piping and Harley-Davidson graphics on the back, above the chest, and on the left sleeve.
10) Harley-Davidson Women’s Rain Jacket & Pant. This ensemble covers riders from head to toe and offers extra protection from inclement weather. Constructed from waterproof nylon, the jacket is fully lined and seam sealed. The pants include stirrups to prevent water from leaking in; along with built-in kneepads. For additional safety, the pants legs are protected by a heat-resistant shield. Both pieces are made from reflective material, which is lightweight and easy to pack when not in use.
By admin, on December 29th, 2010
As teenagers get older, the prospect of soon being able to drive on their own is very exciting for them. However, it can be a complete nightmare for a parent. Many teenagers start asking for a motorcycle rather than a passenger vehicle as this type approaches. Should you allow your teenager to get a motorcycle? This can be a hard decision to make and one that shouldnt be make quickly.
There are a few advantages to allowing your teenager to have a motorcycle. For one, they will only be able to have one other passenger with them. That is if you allow it. Some parents make the rule of no passengers for the first year. That is a personal decision. Many passenger vehicle accidents occur because of the car being full of kids and that is a major distraction. They also wont be able to hide any alcohol on a motorcycle as they can with a passenger vehicle. Having been a teenager once ourselves we know this is a likely scenario in a car.
For the most part, purchasing a used motorcycle for your teenager will be less expensive than purchasing a used car for them. The insurance can also be cheaper too in many cases. The cost of gas that they will be burning up is also going to be significantly less than will a car.
You are going to have to take an honest look at how responsible your teenager is. For those who have allowed their teenager to ride on and operate off road motorcycles for years, then the issue wont be as large. This is because you know they are capable of handling the equipment and know how to properly operate it. If your teenager has a need for speed or is a risk taker you will need to be more cautious with this decision. You will also have the issue of how your teenager is going to get around when the weather is cold or too bad to operate a motorcycle in.
For the most part, if you agree to allow your teenager to get a motorcycle, you should be able to come to agreement on the terms and conditions of this taking place. Start with safety requirements. Is your teenager willing to wear a motorcycle helmet without fail all the time when operating the bike? Some teenagers are too concerned with their hair or looking like a dork in front of their peers to agree to this. If they wont then the motorcycle definitely should not be considered.
Is your teenager willing to take a motorcycle safety course? If they arent willing to give up one weekend to be involved in such an activity, do you really want to turn them loose with such a machine? Regardless of the power behind a particular model of motorcycle, it is still a bike they will be riding with other cars on the road.
Once you have discusses the guidelines and terms of your allowing your teenager to get a motorcycle, you will have a clearer picture of what your teenager is willing to do for it. If they are willing to abide by your rules then you should trust them to make the right decisions. It is a good idea to put the agreed terms in writing as well as the consequences for breaking them. This way everyone is clear on what is expected from them regarding this decision.
It can be difficult allowing our children to grow up. The rite of passage that comes with obtaining a drivers permit isnt easy for most parents. Allowing them to be on their own and operate a motorcycle is a tough decision and one parents have to make all the time. As a parent, it is your responsibility to do what is in the best interest of your teenager even if they dont agree with the decision.
By admin, on December 22nd, 2010
The tires and the spokes of the scooter will require daily inspection to ensure you have no problems, and that your ride will be a safe one. If you are faced with broken spokes, you should repair them right away to prevent additional breakage. If you have a flat tire, you will also need to have someone change it, plug it or repair it so you can continue riding the scooter. Riding the scooter with a flat tire is going to bend and chip the rims, the wheels, and will not provide you with the smooth ride you are accustomed.
For flat tires, there is a canister type of solution you can purchase which is known as fix a flat, which will fix flat tires, plugging holes in the rubber tire. The Fix a flat is a canister that will plug right into the tire, inflating the tire as it plugs the hole at the same time. The Fix a flat is going to work on the tires that are rubber, the same as your car. This type of repair is not going to work on the tire with a tube or the tire that has a major cut in it. Repairs to the tire that has a large gash will require replacement of the tire. Most all medical supply houses, and scooter retail outlets do make replacement tires easy to purchase.
Regular reviewing and maintenance of your tires will be required. If you are not using your scooter for long periods, you should at least have someone move the tires around, so they are not sitting on one portion of the tire for weeks on end. Dry rot is a problem for tires not used often. A scooter not used for three months at a time can easily have dry rot on the tire. Dry rot can be spotted by the cracks in the tires, which can easily then lead to air leaks.
To prevent the need to fix flat tires, to fix broken spokes, and to prevent dry rot on any scooter tire, you should consider the purchase of tires, which are solid. Solid tires are available with or without tread. Solid tires never require air. If you have tires that do require air, you can pump up the tires with a bike pump or with an air compressor.
By admin, on December 15th, 2010
The latest craze worldwide is purchasing and racing Pocket Bikes. However, this can be very dangerous to the inexperienced rider. These bikes are not toys and should never be underestimated. The bikes that are more powerful and expensive are strictly built for experienced adult riders, not children looking for a joyride. These bikes are built sleek and fast for racing. They have power of 9.5 hp or 12+ hp -these models are definitely suggested for professional racers only. Due the incredible power to weight ratio, if you have no previous experience with these bikes, take safety precautions and educate yourself about their operation before riding.
As for places to race these bikes, there are many options and locations from which to choose. You could choose to become a member of a bike league. These leagues hold races in various locations such as speedways, go-kart tracks, or closed parking lots. The leagues can also assist you in finding other safe and legal places to ride outside of race time. If for some reason you are unable to find a league in your immediate region, you may look inside your local yellow pages or on the Internet for further assistance. Here are a few tips that may help you in case you are still having trouble locating assistance or a league: Find a clear open area that allows for pocket bikes at high speeds, ensure there are no obstacles or obstructions that could result in injury, and also be sure to steer clear of public roads and pedestrian-heavy areas.
Be sure to obtain copies of any laws and regulations you will need to observe in the area you plan on racing in. You should be able to locate or obtain these from the local library or law enforcement offices in your area.
By admin, on December 8th, 2010
Proper motorcycle maintenance and preparation before riding will prevent the need for costly repair jobs. The Internet abounds with motorcycle repair videos, DVDs, books and magazines. If you prefer not to go to an authorized repair center, it is possible to learn how to do-it-yourself.
A quick pre-ride check of your bike will help prevent the need for repair, especially if you are going on a long road-trip, and even if you are just riding to the store.
First check the oil and the oil filter. Learning how to change your own filter will save time and money. If you do change your own oil make sure to dispose of the old oil properly. It should be sealed in an approved container and taken to a legitimate oil disposal facility. This is a good time to check the other fluid levels as well.
Next check the controls to make sure they all operate properly. Controls include front and rear brakes, throttle, clutch and shifter. Also check to see that the steering mechanism works smoothly. This may be done by turning the handlebars through the full operating range.
You should check your tire pressure often. If you are touring, carry a tire gauge and check it daily. The owner’s manual that comes with your bike will tell you what the correct tire pressure should be. Remember that air pressure can change with air temperature. When you check your tire pressure you should also check the condition of your tires. Replace any tires that have less than 50 percent of the tread left. Also replace tires that have cracks, cuts or signs of wear. You should not try to repair a tire unless there is no other option. Even then it is a short-term solution.
Make sure to check for any fuel, oil, or hydraulic fuel leaks. Check both the cases and the lines for leaks. Running out of oil out in the middle of nowhere will definitely mean costly engine repair or even replacement.
Check your headlights, taillights, and turning signals and brake lights. Get into the habit of doing this every time you ride. This is for your own protection letting other drivers see you as well as letting you see them. Instructions on replacing bulbs should be in your owner’s manual. Oh, by the way, if you bought a used bike and the owner did not give you a manual, try looking on line.
Now check your battery. You may actually double the life of your battery by checking and maintaining water levels regularly. This is as simple as shining a flashlight into the opening and filling to the indicated level. You may also consider installing a battery charger with a convenient disconnect.
Finally before you start out, check the position of the mirrors. Do this while you are sitting on the bike to ensure that they are correctly positioned.
Following this simple maintenance plan can save you time, money and the need for repair. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, find the closest Harley Davidson dealership to help you out.
By admin, on December 1st, 2010
Pocket bikes may look like toys, but they aren’t. They are designed for fun, but they can also be very dangerous if not handled properly. Never allow unsafe practices to take away the fun from riding pocket bikes. You can have fun, and still be safe, by following some simple common sense rules.
Always wear the right equipment. Dress as though you were riding a big street bike. Leather is the best type of clothing, and helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads should be worn at all times. Eyes can be protected with goggles are safety glasses. Buckle the chin strap each and every time. Leather gloves are a great idea to protect your hands.
Always inspect your bike before riding. This should become an automatic habit to check before each ride. Make sure your air pressure in the tires is right. Check the tension of the chain. Check the fuel. Check the frame of the bike. Tighten any loose nuts or bolts. If anything looks or sounds amiss, don’t ride! Most injuries from pocket bikes occur because something is wrong with the bike, and an individual rides it, anyway.
Maintenance. This can not be stressed enough. Keep every part of your pocket bike well maintained and cared for. Don’t cut corners.
Stay off public streets. Most states don’t allow pocket bikes on public streets, and many people have been hurt or even killed because they were hit by drivers who could not see them.
Do not ride in undesirable conditions that impair your vision or your ability to control the bike. Fog, rain, darkness, and snow can be dangerous. Also, do not ride the pocket bike if you are impaired. You wouldn’t do it with a car, so don’t do it with a pocket bike.
Never drive a pocket bike at night.
Keep your pocket bike on smooth hard surfaces. These are not meant for off-road use.
Don’t “double up.” Pocket bikes were designed for a single rider and should be used as such.
Follow these tips and your pocket bike will provide hours of safe fun and entertainment, exactly as you had hoped, and without the worry of senseless injury.
By admin, on November 24th, 2010
Any racer is likely to tell you that there is performance, and then there is Performance. Optimal performance is the end goal, especially from super pocket bikes. You want the best possible performance out of super pocket bikes, and doing so is not all that difficult. There are a few basic tips that can help to ensure your bike stays in top notch shape.
One of the most basic rules to keep your super pocket bike running smoothly is the same rule that you need to keep any vehicle running smoothly, from mini bike to a car or van: choose your gas carefully. For super pocket bikes, most pros will tell you not to use racing fuel. Not only does it not help, it might cause problems that other fuels would not. High octane unleaded gasoline works best. As with any gas station, look at the condition of the pumps and ground. If they look bad and there is standing water around where the gas in put into the tank, try the next one down the road. Make sure to mix the oil right, too. The mixtures are fairly easy to figure out, and do not use the same oil as cars. It is not designed for pocket bikes. Buy motorcycle oil.
Break the super pocket bike in right. This mainly involves using common sense. Don’t run your bike at the maximum RPM’s during the break in period. That puts undue stress on the motor. On average it will take about four tanks of gasoline, five to be safe, to break your super pocket bike in. During this period, don’t push the bike too hard – baby it a bit. Slow and steady quite literally will lead to winning the race. Going along with treating your bike right, don’t run it cold. Allow your super pocket bike to warm up for about five minutes after starting it. This allows the motor and the fluids to heat up to their optimal running temperatures. You would never just start your car when its winter outside and take off, so don’t so the same with your bike. It’s not meant to run cold!
Finally, get to know your super pocket bike. Learn what is normal, and what isn’t. When it isn’t running normally, or if anything at all sounds different than usual, turn it off and find out what the problem is. Make all repairs as soon as possible, and park the bike until the repairs are made. Caution will save you a lot of money in the long run. Follow these tips, and you will be able to enjoy a super pocket bike that lives up to every ounce of its potential.
By admin, on November 17th, 2010
How to choose a mountain bike depends on what you are going to do with it, if all you want your new mountain bike for is going for a nice leisurely ride on the canal path or a ride in the woods with the dog, well you wont need a full suspension downhill machine with 4 inch travel on the forks and a fully articulated rear end with damping and rebound control.
+ Where to Start From.
If you do want to go for an easy ride in the park you dont need to spend too much, if you think you will do any off-road riding then big tread tires maybe all you need, but if you think you might try some rough stuff then you will need suspension. Gears will probably be Shimano, brakes must be V-brakes, but could be made by a few different manufacturers, all the rest of the MTB components will depend on how much you can spend. If you go to your local bike shop or big sports store and see what theyve got to offer, then buy it or have look on the Internet and maybe youll find the same thing at a better price.
+ The Next Step Up.
So maybe you want to be a bit more adventurous, more off-road, more forest tracks and dry boulder river beds, then youll need something a little lighter, with suspension forks. All this will cost you more money, but will be worth it for the extra enjoyment and adventure. With a better mountain bike it will have a sportier handling and because it is lighter, it will be easier to struggle up the hills before you come flying down the other side. The components will again be Shimano and the quality will depend on how much money you can spend. V-brakes and Rapid-fire gear shifters, along with Shimano chain set, bottom bracket and headset. Handle bars, stem and seat pin should be alloy and along with a comfortable saddle youll be set to take to the hills.
+ More Money, More Bike.
The next rung up on the mountain bike ladder would be good enough to race on. There are many to choose from, get on the net and surf the bike manufacturers sites and all the shop sites along with the magazines for juicy photos of the bikes. The top manufacturers in this price range, I would say are: – Trek, Giant, Specialized and Cannondale, these companies make the nicest frames with the best mountain bike parts available at the price, gears will be either Shimano or SRAM, brakes could be V-brakes or cable disc brakes, both are very good and light, most of the other MTB parts, of course will be Shimano and as usual get the best you can afford. There are many combinations of hubs and rims to make up your wheels; hubs from Shimano and rims form Mavic are the usual mix. Then you have to choose which suspension forks to put on you bike, you may not get a choice, depending on which bike you buy, the main ones are Suntour, Marzocchi, Manitou, Fox, RockShox and RST, buy any of these and you wont go far wrong.
+ Top Bikes. Top Money.
If you want what the professionals ride you will have to pay a lot of money a professional MTB. As with road bike at the top of the range, you can specify what you want to build up your dream bike. Top bikes frames to spend your money on could be Klien, Scott, Rocky Mountain, Gary Fisher, Santa Cruz and K2; these are some of the most sought after bike frames in the world and would be the envy of your friends. Probably the best forks to put on your frame would be RockShox SIDs these are light and do all the things you need with control of all functions, there are many other to also to consider, look at how much travel they have and the rebound and damping systems. Gears again will be either SRAM or Shimano Rapid fire, XT or XTR, more money could be spent on carbon or very light alloy cranks, the brakes should be hydraulic discs from Hayes, Pace or Magura or stick to the trusted V-bakes. Wheels from Shimano or Mavic or some fancy carbon wheels, but remember they will have to take a lot of punishment, so maybe better to go for reliability over light weight expense. Carbon handle bars, stem and seat pin and a light weight race saddle and Time or Shimano SPD clipless pedals, then your choice of tires will depend on what terrain and ground conditions you are going to ride on.
+ And Downhilling?
Downhill bikes are very different, more like a cross country motor bike, but without the engine, low center of gravity and a lot of travel on the suspension on the forks and the rear end, disc brakes, wide rims and fat tires, gears are only at the back as usually a single chain set is used. Unless your going to do a lot of downhill racing then there isnt much point in buying one as you have to get up the hill first before you can come down and as light weight is not an issue with downhill bikes, they are very heavy to get up hill with out the use of a tow rope or a ski lift.
By admin, on November 10th, 2010
Motorcycle racing is a very exciting sport that many people love to watch. The three main types of motorcycle racing include dirt bikes, street racing, and drag racing. Each offers motorcycle enthusiasts the opportunity to race their motorcycle at breath taking speeds against the best in the sport. Those who have proven to be among the best are able to secure sponsors to help cover the cost of their racing activities. While some of the biggest payouts are in motorcycle street racing, this is very illegal.
Dirt bike racing is generally called motocross or supercross. Motocross racing involves a dirt track with some tight turns. Supercross is mainly done indoors in arenas or event centers. This type of racing involves some spectacular jumps and moves to get an edge over the competition. This type of racing is very fast paced and exciting to watch. The race track is often made of dirt and sometimes there are mud pits as well for added difficulty and entertainment for the crowd.
One main difference with this type of racing is that all of the racers start at the same time, so you often have 25 or more racers jammed together at the start. Getting a good start in this type of racing will give you an edge over the competition. Many of the racers get jumbled together in the first turn, making it hard to pull ahead of other racers.
Drag racing involves racing at extremely high speeds for a short distance on straight pavement. The distance is generally either a quarter mile or a half mile. There are two types of drag racing for motorcycles. The first is called bracket racing. This involves time trials and then attempting to get as close to your dial in time without breaking out. This type of racing is more about being consistence than racing other competitors. In heads up drag racing, the competitors race against each other and the first one to reach the finish line wins.
Motorcycle street racing is illegal, but a very popular past time for many in California and Florida. There is a great deal of money to be made in illegal street racing so there are always plenty of participants. There are also spectators who enjoy the thrill of this type of racing. While police work hard to prevent such racing from taking place it is still taking place. Strict penalties are being put into place as a deterrent for those who continue to participate.
Some other popular types of motorcycle racing include hill climbing. This involves a motorcycle racing to the top of the hill. While each rider has the entire track to themselves, their times are ranked against those of other riders. Rally racing involves competitors on a geographical racing trail, with various checkpoints along the way.
Motorcycle racing is a sport many people love to participate it. There are many spectators who enjoy the fast pace and action taking place throughout the races as well. Some people participate in motorcycle racing as a hobby or for entertainment. For others, it is a way of life. They have worked hard to earn sponsors and follow the racing circuit from one racing event to another. They also put countless hours into learning new techniques on their motorcycles to stay in the top positions over the competition.
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