bunch of blogs: Motor

Entries from July 2008

GPS Buying Tips

July 31st, 2008

To venture into flying planes and choppers is a big decision. This is one activity that you have to seriously think about. You can’t afford mistakes. Thus, you must do everything within your means to do things properly. One aspect that you have to carefully consider is your navigation instruments.
Flying planes and choppers will definitely expose you to the great outdoors. You will discover new places, explore certain heights and even see the surroundings in a different perspective. As such, you need to have a good navigating system to find your way around. If you still think that you need to find you old compass for the trip, then think again.
The GPS device is now your main tool. GPS or Global Positioning System will enable you to determine exactly where you are. This can also indicate to you where you need to make turns and where you should make your stops. This is your key to navigate.
GPS Buying Tips
As such, you really need to have a good GPS device when you fly a plane or a chopper. In this regard, you can make use of some helpful buying tips when you get your own GPS. Here are some buying tips to keep in mind.
1. Determine the GPS Type
GPS devices have varied prices that can range from $50 to $10,000. The range depends on the features and capabilities of the devices. Thus, for your flying endeavors, it is best to choose the type that will best suit your outdoor exploration needs. You can make use of the PDA/GPS hybrid type.
2. Specific Functions
You may want to get a GPS with other specific functions helpful to you. For example, flying a plane may require much of your concentration. As such, getting GPS devices that provide oral instructions will definitely be a big help.
3. Multi-Purpose Devices
There are GPS devices that serve multi-purpose functions. You may benefit from the talking instructions. However, keep in mind that you need to work efficiently with the GPS. If the extra functions only confuse you, then it is best not to get them. Just get a device that is durable and efficient enough for your flying needs. That is all you need for a good investment with your GPS purchase.
Conclusion
Use the GPS buying tips provided here to grab hold of the right device for your navigation endeavors. This is your key to safety and accuracy.

Car Auctions 101

July 31st, 2008

Car auctions are a good place to get good a bargain on cars. But buying cars from auctions can be very complicated. This is particularly true for the uninitiated. Of course the cars in auctions are generally cheaper. But they are cheap because they lack the guarantees that come with cars bought from dealers. The rules in auctions are simple, you bid an item, you pay for it, and you own it.
It is therefore not advisable for persons without much experience in motor vehicles to just go to an auction and buy a car.
What you’ll need if you’re planning to buy a car in an auction is a good eye, good observation skills and a willingness to learn the car auction process.
You can even make it a business by buying cars at auction and then selling them at a profit. There are several people who have made huge profits by buying and selling cars at auction.
There are basically two kinds of car auctions, local car auctions and online car auctions. Each of the auctions works differently. Each has a different set of rules so you must study them very carefully if you are planning to buy a car from either kind of auction.
If you want to buy a vehicle in a car auction you must first pre-register with the local auction you want to join. The pre-registration process won’t take much of your time and will provide you all the essential information that you will need in order to buy a car. An auction site will often have an auction staff who will explain to you the rules of their auction site and the procedures and instruction on how to participate and bid on the cars.
It is wise to inspect the cars before the actual bidding begins. Ask the auction organizer or staff if they can allow you to take a closer look at the cars before the start of the actual auction. Another wise decision is to set your payment limit before the actual sale. This way, you won’t fall victim to the trap of overbidding.
As in other auctions, it is very important that you signal your bids carefully to the car auctioneer to avoid confusion. Settle your transaction as soon as the auction ends. Look for the block clerk and settle your accounts with him. A car auction staff will usually be available to assist you when you are ready to pay for the vehicle you have won. He should also be able to guarantee you a good title for the vehicle.
You must also check the vehicle after you have won and settling your account. Take the vehicle for a test drive and make sure that it conforms to the guarantee and representation made during the auction.
Most auction sites would accept check or credit card if you cannot pay the car with cash. An auction staff will also usually give you a third party financing offer. It is advisable though to have your own finances ready before entering a car auction. Outside financing is usually cheaper than most in-house financing of auction sites.
Ask for an invoice copy from the auction staff. This will enable you to drive or ship your newly bought car to your location. Most car auction managers will give you good deals on shipping arrangements so inquire about this.
There really are no significant differences between a local auction and an online auction. Online car auctions work more or less the same way as local ones. The only disadvantage of online auction sites is that you won’t be able to inspect the car as you would in an actual car auction. In participating in online car auctions be sure that you will be provided with all the necessary information about the car upfront and that there is an actual photograph of the vehicle.
Cars bought from an online auction are usually shipped to the buyer for a minimal fee. Inspect the car immediately upon arrival at your location to minimize risks.
You are now ready for your first car auction. Happy bidding!

Scoot around with care

July 30th, 2008

Scooter riders in the same way as car drivers, have their fair share of safety precautions to take into consideration before riding on the streets. Scooters are known to be widely accepted by the younger generations, because when compared to controlling the car, it is way easier to comprehend and manipulate.
That is why it wasn’t surprising to get wind of the parents who have shown apprehension, regarding the potential fate of their kids if they aren’t guided and advised of the matters which they ought to be aware of when riding their scooters. It might have been said over and over again, but it seems that it has also been unheeded time and again.
Prioritize safety
Knowing how to drive is essential but not all drivers realize that, driving isn’t just the mere ability to steer the vehicle, but it should also about being responsible enough to commit to safety by dispelling any form of trouble. it is important that you don’t drive your scooter until you are fully aware of the safety measures that you need to bear in mind while riding.
Know your vehicle
The moment that you purchase your scooter, peruse the brochure and directions that came with the package. Other than informing you regarding the proper means of operating the vehicle, you might also find other effective information regarding the maintenance of the scooter such as the appropriate air pressure which would be used for the tires, preservation of the battery and a whole lot more.
If you don’t find the details included practical, then you should visit your scooter manufacturer’s website to be informed of the parameters which the new owners must become skilled at. You might also want to inquire of the sellers or users of scooters, with regard to the possible safety measures which you have to adhere to when riding the scooter.
Never experiment and stick to the guidelines
For beginners and for the experts also, it is ideal that you ride the scooter alone to be able to stay focused while driving the vehicle. Taking a passenger could be dangerous, since scooters were manufactured to transport a single person at a time.
Tricks are more often than not, among the basic causes of accidents. It might sound thrilling to tug someone who is fastened on the end of the scooter while riding a skateboard, or to drag someone who’s inside a wagon, but the truth is these tricks are extremely dangerous. Why?
One, the motor of the scooter isn’t accustomed to the heavy weight, thus it might snap. Two, the scooter is designed to hold the weight of a single person, any additional weight might cause the driver to lose control which might bring about an accident. Scooter tricks are rarely safe and legitimate, so it’s best to avoid them.
Abide to the established guidelines
Rules are established in every endeavor that we partake in; the nature of such is derived from the need to limit the probable abuse of opportunity provided by someone to the other. In scooter riding, there are the so called, ten commandments which riders have to adhere to so that they can continue enjoying their rides with their scooters.
In the event that you are unaware of these guidelines, it is best that you educate yourself regarding this kind of important matter so that you can avoid future complications due to your recklessness and ignorance of the law. This information is usually available on the scooter manufacturer’s website, government’s driving department website and sometimes, in chat rooms and forums regarding scooters which are accessible on the web.
Use safety gadgets-all the time!
Other than knowing what you have to do, it could be further reinforced by protecting yourself with proper gears. So that in case you encounter accidents, when you are wearing safety gadgets, it will surely mitigate the effect of the incident.
Lastly, always take with you the pertinent documents and identification and insurance cards, so that you can get along the road fully equipped with all your needs.

Tips for Buying a Motorcyle

July 28th, 2008

When shopping around for a good motorcycle, keep in mind that, like every other business out there, the dealers are out to get your money. It may seem like a harsh thing to say but their main goal is to get your cash, but let’s face facts. No business is out to give away things for free. Every dealership is going to be looking for ways to maximize their profits at the expense of you, the buyer.
To avoid getting your wallet unnecessarily drained, keep in mind that when shopping for a good motorcycle, you shouldn’t simply look at the flat-out front end price of the bike. Since many dealers will have their front end prices vary, some will seek to make a profit by offering a seemingly rock bottom front end price, but will have other additional fees and charges that will make them a kickback.
These additonal charges have to be factored into the overall price when you compare motorcycle dealer offers, so that you can pick one that will offer the least strain on your budget. These additional areas to look for are the following:
Installment Payment - while the ability to pay for the price of your bike with monthly installments seems to take a huge burden off, as opposed to making a much larger 1-time cash payment or credit charge, look at the terms of payment involved in the installment package. Usually, the overall amount of money you’ll be spending will be subtly higher.
Motorcycle Loans - loan programs may seem useful too, but dealerships which offer partnerships with a bank and give you a bank loan option for financing your new motorcycle will usually tack on an added amount into the interest charges of the loan. The banks in these cases often give the dealers a kickback from the additional interest.
Warranties - extended warranties beyond the basic necessities will usually involve extra cash. Check the terms of the warranties including overall price and the duration of the warranty, as well as it’s coverage to make sure you get the best possible comprehensive warranty.
Freight, Shipping, and Handling Charges - while seemingly innocuous, quite a few dealers actually subtly hide their additional kickbacks in additional freight charges for delivering your motorcycle. Find out beforehand how much damage (financially speaking) you’ll be taking from the dealer for freight.
It is your duty as a consumer to make sure that you get the best possible deal for your money, so being able to detect these little areas where dealers make an extra (at your expense) profit are a must.

The Crème de la Crème of Radio Shack Radio Control Cars

July 28th, 2008

There’s nothing wrong with not wanting to build and customize RC cars. Some people are born with a taste for it; some people aren’t. The best place to shop for one is none other than the Radio Shack website. Besides selling ready-to-run (RTR) vehicles, it also offers electrical equipment to general RC car hobbyists.
Dodge Viper GTS-R a.k.a. Danger on the Road
The 1:12 scale Dodge Viper GTS-R is danger on wheels; with the inclusion of high/low gears and turbo function, the Dodge Viper can go as fast as 1020 feet per minute and zoom ahead of the competition to the finish line. Users can be as far as 100 feet away and still be able to control the vehicle. A 2WD RC car, the Dodge Viper’s maximum climbing angle is at 22 degrees.
Look Pink but Enjoy White Hot Speed with Barbie’s Pink RC Corvette
Whoever said that RC racing is a man’s world hasn’t seen Barbie’s pink RC Corvette from Mattel yet! Young and not-so-young girls who wish for a smooth initiation to the world of RC car racing can do no better than Barbie’s pink but mean RC corvette. Its simple three-function controls will allow female novices to slowly grasp the basics. This vehicle also has working headlights to allow night practices and comes with a paper surfboard and its very own Barbie doll.
Be the Dale Earnhardt of RC Car Racing
The closest you can get to being the Dale Earnhardt of RC car racing is by purchasing NASCAR’s #8 Dale Earnhardt Jr. car. With a 1:43 scale, the #8 car also allows the user to be in remote control from a distance of 60 feet. Maximum speed is at 315 feet per minute.
How to Race as Jeff Gordon
If you don’t feel like being Dale Earnhardt, then maybe you wish to become Jeff Gordon instead? With NASCAR’s #24 Jeff Gordon car, you have stronger chances of becoming the king of the road. Although possessing similar specifications with NASCAR’s #8 as far as speed and air gun remote control distance is concerned, the #24 is at a slight disadvantage with only 27MHz frequency compared to #8’s 49MHz.
Zip Zap and Zoom
The Zip Zaps micro RC cars are probably the most familiar to the public eye. With a 1:64 scale, these tiny powerful vehicles are designed after various car models such as Mazda, Ford, Chevy, and even Jeep.
If you don’t want to waste time futilely building your own RC car then don’t. Buy a RTR toy from Radio Shack and off you go!

Unfettered Souls: The Harley Davidson

July 26th, 2008

Nothing, and I mean nothing, to me symbolizes the spirit of freedom and strength more than a Harley Davidson. Ever since Hell’s Angels gained notoriety and biker gangs started their wild roaming through the interstates of the United States, the Harley Davidson has been synonymous with classic themes of focused passion and power, most especially rock and roll music.
As a rock fanatic and a biker myself, the Harleys have long had a very special place in my heart. If you’re thinking of owning one just because you’ve got tons of money and want to show off how rich you are, I am going to wholeheartedly tell you now, DON’T. You’ll give the real bikers and rockers out there a bad name. Not to mention you’ll look funny, and everyone will be laughing at you behind your back. Or in your face, depending on how polite they are.
Okay, that said and done, let’s talk about the bike. Harleys have pretty much set a trend and there are tons of posers out there that have come up with easy riders that try to at least imitate the bad-boy look of a Harley Davidson. The real bikers spend most of their time laughing their butts off at these imitations.
There is no way to counterfeit the look, the feel, and the sound of a real Harley. Making a line of Harley look-alikes is like trying to take a mule and asking it to pretend it’s a thoroughbred stallion. No comparison, end of story.
I could go on about the specs of the machine, but that’s not the point. A Harley isn’t about numbers and figures like RPMs in the motor. It’s something you have to ride to experience and understand. If your heart doesn’t match up with the spirit of the bike, if you don’t like rock and roll and are afraid of things like noise, power, roaming around, and change, then the experience of riding the bike will most likely terrify you. Like a wild horse sensing a newbie rider, the bike will most likely throw you at the first opportunity.
It’s not for everyone, I can honestly say. That’s what makes the Harley so special. It’s all about attitude, and loving the concepts of freedom, chaos, and living life to the fullest. If you think you can handle that, then give a Harley a try, and see if you’ve got what it takes to run with the pack.

The Importance of Weather Forecast Before Flying

July 26th, 2008

Other than navigation and the airworthiness of your plane, it’s the weather that will determine whether you have a successful flight or not. When you’re flying, weather will affect everything you do and no amount of technical preparation can help you control what’s going to happen next. That is why you’ll have to consult a weather forecast before flying.
Why you should be wary of the weather
Weather changes and even with the very best instruments, it’s subject to many unpredictable things that occur when we least expect it. It would be very foolish indeed to try to fly an aircraft in the direction of gale-force winds. Not even the very best pilots can do that and neither should you. Even spiders try to read the weather before they throw out their webs to change locations. Why shouldn’t you?
Use your resources
Weather forecasts are provided by many local weather offices who regularly announce changes that should be cause for concern especially for pilots. Keep in touch with these sources whether on TV, the radio or on the internet. Your local air traffic control can also assist you in this area.
A weather forecast isn’t something you can ignore and forget about before you fly. The elements in the air are an integral part of your flight plan and you can’t leave the ground without it. Besides, it will be difficult for you to get clearance if the weather forecast isn’t good. Weather forecasters are also able to produce more accurate predictions of local weather because of newer technology, making it safer for many pilots to fly.
Don’t trust an old forecast.
Try to obtain the most current weather forecast you can find, preferably those that were made within 12 to 24 hours before your intended flight. These forecasts can be trusted for their accuracy. If what you have is a weather forecast made two to three days ago, that’s also pretty good – not as accurate, but can be a decent guide. However, if the weather forecast you’re using is 5 days old, you’d be better off not flying because accuracy is no longer reliable.
Also, when it comes to weather forecasting before a flight, the bigger picture isn’t always a good source. You’ll need details on air pressure, humidity and temperature, along with wind directions and speed in order for you to determine whether it’s safe to fly.

Chevys - Classic Radio Control Models and More

July 25th, 2008

As far as variety goes, there are about as many RC cars as there are models of the real thing, and probably even more. Take for instance the Chevy. There is no lack of RC models available if you go for the classics in this arena; or for their sports car line, like the Chevy Corvette.
Chevy RCs are definitely more for the collector than the racer, unless you custom-make your RC racer to have the body of a Chevy, that is. Let’s take a look at some of the more popular Chevy RCs:
Muscle Machines 1957 Chevrolet
This comes in pretty big at a 1:8 scale and is truly a classic. Accessories included are the charger, battery pack, and features working headlights, a decidedly detailed interior, custom wheels, and super glossy paint. Average price is between $60-$80. Other Chevy Muscle Machine models available are the 71 Camaro and the Camaro Z28, also in 1:8 scale and similarly priced to the 1957 Chevrolet.
1969 Chevy Camaro Z28 RC Electric Car
Made by Playmaker Toys, this 1969 Camaro model is produced at a 1:18 scale and features working head and tail lights, and is a four-function car (as in forward, backward, left, and right). This is definitely for the real Chevy collectors out there, and at $30-$40, it’s not a bad deal at all.
1998 Chevrolet Corvette GTS IR Control Mini RC Car
For the mini RC fans out there, this Chevy is for you. It features a body that is all metal, racing tires made of rubber, and a miniature Corvette engine. The remote control wristwatch doubles as just that, a watch, and the mini RC car itself claims to mimic everything that its real nemesis does; this is probably because General Motors itself is said to have licensed this baby as a true 1:32 mini RC. This has a MSRP of $49.95 to $69.95 but can be bought at less than half that price at many online hobby stores.
Chevy truck models are also available as RCs - such as the Chevy SSR RC Truck and the Chevy 4×4 Monster Truck. Average prices for RC trucks are a little over $100, but if you’re lucky, some websites have them on sale for as much as 50% off.
Many Chevy owners who have at one point in their lives owned a classic are thrilled when they find model RCs that resemble the very cars they once owned. So, whether you’re just a beginning collector of classics, or if you’re a seasoned collector looking to expand your line of cars, then the Chevy is definitely the way to go.

Must Haves Motorcycle Gear

July 25th, 2008

If you are a motorcycle enthusiast and starting to collect motorcycle gear that will give you that perfect ride, this article will provide you just the basic information to start up.
Many starting motorcycle riders are in confusion on what clothing, motorbike accessories and other survival kits are needed in order to enjoy the fun of this exciting vehicle. More often than not, given all the available resources and accessories around, it’s just so hard to decide what to buy.
If you are conscious, you will come up with a long list of motorcycle gear, but the question now falls on the frequency of usage of the accessories in question. Will you be using all of these accessories that often? Are there more needed accessories that you need?
With all those questions in mind, it is best that we have all the needed answers in order to and keep you from frustration and protect your savings at the same time. Below are the lists of motorbike accessories that you need to have before you hang off that driving seat and get the ride of your life!
Clothing
Clothing style is very important if you are a motorbike user. Although it isn’t required that you have all the motorbike clothes, there are specifics that you will need to consider.
a. Top. T-shirts decorated with all motorcycle-related stuffs similar to what you see with famous motorcycle riders are the best. Leather jackets are a needed top accessory.
Get one which allows the air to circulate inside the jacket in order to prepare you in the summer season. Some signature jackets like Joe Rocket, Roadgear and Hein Gericke are the jacket brands of choice.
b. Pants and Boots. Pants shouldn’t be that of ordinary pants. Leather pants and chaps are OK. Boots with soles made up of genuine rubber are necessary in order to keep your foeet on the ground when you stop down the road.
c. Helmets. It is a fact that most governments around require motorcycle users to wear helmets at all times. Since motorbikers are prone to accidents, it is necessary to wear one. Wear a full-face helmet that will keep your head from the distracting sun rays, bugs and water when raining.
Survival Kits
a. Reflective Vest. Keeps you visible along the road.
b. Ear plugs. Protects your ears from any induced effects of air pressure while travelling.
c. First Aid Kits and Tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, sparkplugs, and loc-tite.

How to purchase a NASCAR radio-controlled racing car

July 24th, 2008

First things first, have you ever drooled over a Corvette or that enticing Dodge Viper; or wanted to own your very own NASCAR radio-controlled racing car? Relax; there are people out there who want the same things you do. This list is made for those who want to know how to buy that perfect radio-controlled car - NASCAR or any other type.
You have to read
It is very important that you research good and relevant information prior to your purchase of a radio-controlled vehicle. Doing this allows you to acquire a wealth of knowledge that may be enough to help you make a well-informed choice.
You have to search
One of the effective sources of information is on the internet where anyone could find out virtually all there is to know about anything and/or anyone. As much as possible, surf the internet and Google for as much information as you can on your radio-controlled vehicle interests.
Subscribe, subscribe, subscribe
Subscribe to a publication that has radio-controlled cars as its main interest - or visit a hobby local shop and ask to scan their literature on radio-controlled vehicles. You can get a fair idea of how to choose the RC vehicle that would work for you.
Visit a club
Contact and/or join a radio-controlled car club, especially if you plan to purchase a NASCAR RC vehicle. It pays to know who drives what and how.
Do not forget to attend events
By this it is meant those races that are sponsored or organized by NASCAR or any of the RC clubs you have in your local area. This allows you to be exposed to a lot of people and RC vehicles for your review and viewing.
Decide, decide, decide
As much as possible, decide on the money you are considering or willing to spend. This limitation allows you to narrow your purchase options. Also, try to decide what kind of action you want to start with, are you looking for an on- road or off- road action for your RC vehicle? This is important as there is a significant difference between a racing track that is paved and rough terrain.
Determining these details ensure that you will purchase a NASCAR RC vehicle that is perfect for your wants, needs, preferences and budget. Work from there and you will never go wrong.