By admin, on March 16th, 2011%
Which Type of Harley Davidson Motorcycle is Best for You?
You’ve been wanting one for so long. When you hear the roar of the engine, your heart skips a beat. You stop and stare, fantasizing about what it would be like if YOU were sitting in the seat.
Before you go out and buy yourself a Harley, it’s wise to do your homework and determine which type of motorcycle is best suited for you. To begin you want to match the type of bike to your riding style, expectations, experience, and ability. You also want to consider how you will be riding the bike.
Last, but not least, you’ll want to take into consideration your physical size and abilities. A common mistake many people make is to buy a motorcycle that is too big for them. Obviously, this can result in serious injury or death. It’s important to select a motorcycle that you can skillfully maneuver and manage.
Harley Davidson offers a wide range of motorcycles and can accommodate nearly everyone’s needs. Let’s take a look at the various types of Harley Davidson motorcycles:
Touring: If you plan on taking road trips, this is the Harley for you. However, if you are a beginner, this type of bike is probably more than you can handle. When these bikes are fully loaded, they can weigh up to 800 pounds. Harley touring bikes include Road Kings and Glides.
Cruisers: Harley Cruisers are a lighter weight motorcycle than Touring bikes; however, they are still heavy and not recommended for beginners. Cruisers are categorized as Softails and include the Harley Fat Boy, Heritage and Nostalgia models.
Softails: The term softail refers to a type of rear suspension system installed to absorb shock. Softails were designed to be reminiscent of the rigid mount design of earlier models; but provide a more comfortable ride. Harley Softails are a popular choice for daily riding. Many riders choose the Softail when they want to create their own custom design.
Softails are lighter in weight than Touring or Cruiser Harley’s. Models include the Softail Custom, Springer Softail, Heritage Softail, Heritage Springer, Night Train, Deuce, and Fat Boy.
Dynas: The Dynas model has a dual shock rear suspension like the Touring bikes and a front end like the Softail and Sportster models. The engine has a rubber mounted support system to reduce engine vibration. Dynas are available with a wide-glide or narrow-glide front end. This type of bike is a good choice for street riding and appropriate for beginners.
Sportster: These are the perfect choice of Harley motorcycles for beginners. These bikes have a smaller engine and smaller frame and are the lightest bikes offered by Harley-Davidson. Sportsters are the only Harley with two engine sizes, the 883 and 1200. They are about half the cost of the big twin Harley’s; making them the most affordable choice the company offers.
V-Rod: The V-Rod is newest Harley model and introduces a water cooled engine. The V-Rod motorcycle has the style of an imported sport bike, yet retains the stretched out forward controls that are uniquely Harley. This is a good daily riding motorcycle and makes a good choice for those who are experienced in riding.
Buell: Although this isn’t exactly a Harley; Buell sport bikes are made and sold through Harley Davidson. Buell motorcycles are a traditional sports bike powered by an American V-Twin engine. Buell motorcycles are a great all-around bike, suitable for daily riding or shorter road trips. Several engine sizes are available, making Buell motorcycles a good choice for beginners to seasoned riders.
By admin, on February 16th, 2011%
When we talk about bikes, especially the touring class, there is one model that would leave everything behind: the Harley Davidson Sportster.
From its first release in 1957 until today, everyone would agree that the Sportster is undoubtedly the best touring bike ever created. Not to be very flaunting about it, whether you are a Harley fanatic or not, you, in one way or another, you would want to have a Sportster in your garage.
Why?
Here are the reasons
Versatile Imagine a bike that could be added with sport windshield, Harley’s flush mount leather saddlebags, overnight rack bag, sport rack, a tank bag, and low sissy bar with passenger back rest, and will have a unique and sport-looking touring Harley-Davidson Sportster. Worried about the effect? No problem at all. The Harley-Davidson Sportster will definitely look great with all these accessories.
Ride Sportster is at its best when moving, while you are on it of course. With a low center of gravity, suspension geometry, and excellent basic frame, coupled with the infamous V-twin engine, the Harley-Davidson Sportster will bring you wherever you want to go with great comfort and stability. Steering is superb on a Sportster without requiring you to lean from side to side like you normally do on a sports bike. What about the sound? Distinct to every Harley is the sound the engine produces. While riding a Sportster, each mile is a proud ride.
The final touches There are several thousand Harley-Davidson Sportsters and other Harley models out there. You may see several of them but you will never see 2 Harleys that look exactly alike. Why? It is because each owner adds a little something out of his personal taste to dress up his Harley. And with all the accessories ranging from appearance accessories, comfort and convenience accessories, general performance and safety accessories, to engine performance modifications, each Sportster will remain unique for as long as it can hit the road.
Its a Harley Well, there is no question about it; a Sportster is a true-blooded Harley-Davidson with unique qualities and special features, no other motorcycle can imitate. Each Sportster is unique of its own. Each Sportster is crafted by history and heritage of a company.
The Harley-Davidson Sportster has been in the factory line for almost 50 years. Designs, parts and displacements have been changed, but the true legacy of the original Sportster remains on each Sportster.
By admin, on February 2nd, 2011%
Harley Davidson motorcycles are some of the most durable bikes on the market. They are built to last using high quality materials and craftsmanship. Therefore, the cost of a new Harley may be out of reach for some individuals.
Many people find that purchasing a used motorcycle is a better option. However, it’s a good idea to possess a healthy dose of skepticism when purchasing a used bike; particularly from a private seller.
Previously owned motorcycles can be found through private sellers who oftentimes announce their offer via classified ads posted in magazines or online bulletin boards. Used motorcycles can also be found at authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships and public auctions.
Authorized Harley-Davidson Dealers. One of the safest ways to purchase a used Harley-Davidson motorcycle is through an authorized dealer. Along with financing options, many dealers offer extended warranties and optional maintenance services. They inspect the bikes for any potential problems and provide buyers with documentation that guarantees the used motorcycle is legal.
To find a list of authorized Harley-Davidson dealers visit www.hogs4sale.com. Click on the state you reside in to locate a dealer in your area.
Online Classifieds. There are several reputable websites that offer a wide range of used motorcycles. Ads are placed by private sellers and transactions are made directly from seller to buyer. Both buyers and sellers are required to create an account in order to communicate with one another. Upon registration, buyers can contact sellers via email to obtain information, arrange a meeting, and arrange financial transactions.
Care should be taken when buying or selling through online classifieds. While the majority of people participating are honest, you should thoroughly investigate the motorcycle and its history before handing over your hard earned cash.
Three of the most reputable online classified websites for used motorcycles include:
www.CycleClassifieds.us, www.HD4Sale.com, and www.HarleyHunters.com.
Online Auction Sites. E-bay is one of the most popular auction sites for used Harley Davidson motorcycles. Certain precautions are required and buyers should thoroughly investigate the seller using E-bay’s tools and seller rating system. If you use common sense and adhere to the information provided on E-bay’s website, chances are excellent that you will have a safe and happy transaction.
Other used motorcycle auction websites include www.MotorcycleAuctionsOnline.com and Yahoo Shopping Auctions at http://auctions.yahoo.com.
Before you begin shopping for a used motorcycle, it’s a good idea to educate yourself about the makes and models of motorcycles you are interested in. Do some research to determine the average cost of the motorcycle in your area; investigate insurance and finance rates; and make a list of common defects to look out for.
When purchasing a used motorcycle through online classifieds or auctions, be aware of any claims that sound too good to be true. If you find a potential deal, physically review the bike before purchasing it.
Look at the paint for scratches, irregularities and rust. Visually check the tires and foot pedals for wear and tear. Make certain that electronic equipment, such as lights and blinkers, are in good working order.
Always take a good look at the maintenance history of any used motorcycle you are considering purchasing. Start the engine to see how well it runs. Check for blue smoke from the exhaust pipe, which is a sign that the engine is worn. Make certain there are no oil or gas leaks. The seller should possess written documentation of mechanical check-ups.
Pay particular attention to mileage, damage, accident history and any paint jobs. Find out how many people have previously owned the bike and be certain to verify the VIN number. To verify the VIN number, visit www.is-it-a-lemon.com or the Department of Motor Vehicles at www.dmv.org.
By admin, on January 26th, 2011%
There are several Harley-Davidson accessories you can buy for your motorcycle. However, you dont need all of them to get your desired image. Here are 10 Harley-Davidson accessories you can consider buying. (Again, you dont have to buy all these 10, you only have to select some.)
10. Fender trim
If you want to highlight your front fender would to become more attractive upon first look, you simply add a sweeping dash of this chrome-plated trim and you will surely see the difference.
9. Instrument trim
This is a chrome-plated trim that is installed on your tachometer and speedometer gauges (selected models). This will instantly give your Harley a stunning look.
8. Exhaust system
To a super bike, an exhaust system is a great addition to its overall sporty image. To a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, an exhaust system would highlight the very part that gives off the unique sound that made every Harley unique and popular. Sporty look is also an assurance on every exhaust system installed.
7. Saddlebag
Whether it is a color-matched bag or a leather saddlebag, once installed, it will sure give added toughness and style on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. There are different shapes, sizes, and material made for this type of accessory. All you have to do is to choose which one is for your motorcycle.
6. Sissy Bar Bag
Installed at the back seat of the motorcycle, the sissy bar bag will provide an extra storage that is easy to access.
5. Backrest pad
Whether you travel alone or with a companion, having a backrest pad will certainly help your posture. The backrest pad is not only functional, it is also a good cosmetic that adds to the image of the Harley-Davidson.
4. Windshield and windshield trim
Made from a hard-coated polycarbonate, this accessory that can resist scratching is a great addition to your Harley-Davidson. The trim on the other hand accentuates the windshield for added style.
3. Motorcycle Cover
Especially made for a true-blooded Harley-Davidson motorcycle, this will provide protection every time you park it at your garage or somewhere else.
2. Seats
Whether you go solo or with someone at your back, a good seat will let you enjoy the whole ride. Seats from different manufacturers are made from fine materials with designs that go with the brand.
1. Riders essential kit
If you want to buy a whole set of Harley-Davidson that would fit on the particular model you own, a kit would be a great choice. It includes accessories such as belt buckle, windshield, side plates, sissy bar, backrest pad, storage cover, seat, and more depending on the model you have.
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 September 22nd, 2010%
Choppers came into being in the 1960’s and 1970’s. They were the next step in motorcycle evolution after the “bobber”. The bobber came about after American soldiers returned home from World War II. While they remained loyal to the Harley Davidson company, riders that had served oversees just weren’t quite satisfied with the machines the company was producing. These riders remembered the motorcycles they had seen in Europe that were more lightweight and more exciting. Most hade been trained to work on motorcycles and automobiles in the service. They began to get together and talk about improvements.
To make the bike lighter, riders began removing or shortening the fenders. The front fender was usually removed completely, while the back fender was made short enough to just protect the passenger from mud and water thrown up by the rear tire. This is where the term bobber came from. Riders continued to make changes or customizing their bikes and eventually the “chopper” was born. Their original purpose was for dirt track racing.
The term chopper comes from the process of chopping. Riders began chopping off any part they felt was unnecessary. This included windshields, front fenders, big headlights, crash bars and big seats. The standard large footrests were replaced with forward-mounted foot pegs. The fuel tank was made smaller. This made the bike lighter.
Next, riders began raking the front end of their choppers so that the angle of the fork to the ground decreased allowing for an increase in the wheelbase. They also raised the handlebars and called them ape hangers.
Anything that was thought too big or unnecessary was either made smaller or removed. The front tire was made small; the rear tire was made fat. Each rider created the bike he wanted to ride.
As always, as soon as this rage caught on, enterprising individuals began designing and creating custom bikes to sell to other riders so they didn’t have to do the work themselves. Choppers began to be built, not just chopped. While this trend slowed for a few years, it seems to have made a comeback. Custom built choppers created by top designers are greatly prized and sought after.
The Shovelhead FX Super Glide was one such Harley Davidson model to come out of the chopper evolution. Choppers became especially popular after the film Easy Rider, starring Peter Fonda, was released in 1969.
By admin, on July 28th, 2010%
 Finding just the right accessory to give to your favorite Harley Davidson rider is fun and easy. Even if that favorite rider is you! There are three basic categories to know when you are searching.
Items that can be added to your wardrobe, or that can be worn. Any accessory in this category would include black leather jackets, pants, chaps or other items of outerwear. It also includes headgear such as helmets, sunglasses, goggles and masks. Hats, caps and bandanas are also popular. Bandanas can be either for the head or around the neck. Next up are belts, belt buckles, watches and other small items like lighters, jewelry, key chains, money clips, patches, pins and scarves. Purses are also a great gift for the ultimate biker chick and perfume is even an option. T-shirts are also available and don’t forget underwear. Clothing even comes in kids’ sizes for your favorite little biker. It is important to know what size whomever you are buying for is. Better too big than too small, better still that it fits.
The second category is for items that can be added to your motorcycle. Any accessory in this category would include anything that would give you a more comfortable and stylish ride. Luggage racks and saddlebags for example, provide storage on long trips. Radios and navigation equipment are also fun. A more practical accessory might include grips, decorative gas caps, timer covers, license plate frames, medallions, mirrors, covers and cleaning products. Handlebars, gas tanks, floorboards and footpegs, fuel gauges and the most popular items to give your bike a new look-chrome fenders and other chrome accessories are another way to go. Practical or custom, whatever you want is available.
The third category is reserved for any Harley Davidson accessory that can be used in the home. These items are for fun. Books, calendars, computer software, music collections, videos and handheld games are appearing on the market. Other items include dartboards, posters and other pictures, coffee cups, coasters, clocks, piggy banks-especially ones shaped like motorcycles, bottle openers, wine glasses, shot glasses, beer mugs and other dishware. Playing cards are a must. And for the true Harley fan there are table and chair sets, storage units, popcorn machines and even game tables. Don’t forget to check out the pet gear as well. Truly there is something for everyone.
Most Harley Davidson dealerships offer some of these items for sale. The best place to find that special Harley Davidson accessory just may be online. Just open your browser, go to your favorite search engine, type in Harley Davidson accessory and hold on for the ride. Trade magazines are also full of ads. Biker rallies and Harley Davidson sponsored events should also have merchants hawking their wares.
If you are buying online make sure you pay through a secure site, and be aware of any return and refund policies. While you are searching for that perfect accessory, you might even find a good free Harley Davidson screensaver to download on to your computer!
By admin, on June 30th, 2010%
The motorcycle backrest bags not only provide valuable support but can be used to carry light items on long cruises. It is important to keep the bag light, because a heavy load at a high point in the bag can have an adverse effect on low-speed handling.
The features that you need to look at while buying a motorcycle backrest bag are:
1. Mounting systems: Your backrest bag needs to fit snugly on to the bar. So make sure that the bar is neither too tall nor too wide for the bag. Also keep in mind that some bags can be rested on the pillion seat while others need a luggage rack.
2. Rigid vs. soft: It is worth considering whether you would want to have a rigid or a soft bag. Rigid bags have a definite advantage: they fit better and are easier to pack and unpack. You can also put them on the passenger seat and use it as a backrest.
3. Weatherproofing and durability: Most bags have their own waterproof covering. But you should be selective about the weather proofing material. For example, leather may look better but heavy-grade nylon is probably more durable.
4. Capacity: Bigger does not mean better. Loading a big heavy bag on the back of your bike can alter a motorcycle’s centre of gravity. This can result in poor handling and even loss of control.
5. Convenience: Most backrest bags now have additional features. There are backpack straps and roller wheels. Make sure that the straps are padded and roller wheels have a low profile.
Some of the popular brands available in the market are:
1. Harley-Davidson Universal Roller Bag: This bag, which is 17.5 inches high, 16 inches wide and 10 inches deep, has the following features:
– Waterproof Climashield fabric
– 1.8 cubic foot interior with small pockets and compartments.
– Front zip opening for cargo
– Metal handles and rollerblade wheels.
2. Kuryakyn Full Dresser Bag: This bag, which is 16 inches wide, 11 inches deep and 28 inches high, has the following features:
– 2.5 cubic foot capacity
– 1200-denier Cordura exterior
– Fully lined interior for weatherproofing and durability
3. Dowco Rally Pack Universal Luggage System: The important features of this backrest bag which is 17 inches high and 14.5 inches wide are:
– two-piece combination of Jumbo Pack and Roll Bag.
– Cordura nylon exterior
– 1.5 cubic feet of volume
4. Marsee Products 50-Liter Cruiser Bar Bag: This is a big bag, 22 inches high, 17 inches wide and 8 inches deep. Its notable features are:
– 1050-denier ballistic fabric
- 50 litre capacity
– bag converts to backpack with straps
– fits on most cruisers
The other popular backrest bags available in the market are: Willie & Max BlackHawk Max Pax, Tour Master Cruiser II Sissybar Bag (Large), T-Bags Universal Lone Star, Saddlemen Super Taos Sissybar Bag, River Road Classic Bike Pack & Travel Case, Rev-Pack Rest Pack and Nelson-Rigg CTB-900 Deluxe Tourer.
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