Most people take a considerable amount of time when buying motorcycles. They scrutinize and check everything from models to features, appearance to price and maintenance. The same care and inspection should also be done while choosing motorcycle accessories, particularly motorcycle boots.
In order to improve safety and ease of riding, every biker must have a pair of reliable and dependable motorcycle boots. Wearing proper motorcycle gear, especially the boots, will make long journeys comfortable and safe.
Here are some tips that will help you find a good pair of motorcycle boots:
Boot material
Unlike driving shoes, motorcycle boots are exposed to several elements, such as mud, heat and water. Thus, it is important that you chose boots that are made of durable materials, such as leather and rubber soles. You can also opt for boots that are water resistant so that you won’t be bothered by splashes of water when you are riding your bike.
Design
Motorcycle boots come in different colors and designs to fit your mood and lifestyle. However, it is wise to choose a design that’s not only based on appearance, but also durability and safety features.
It is important to select a pair of boots that provide ankle coverage to not guard your ankles but also to help your feet handle different bike maneuvers, such as sliding, tipping over, etc. It’s also advisable to look for boots with upper-part shell protection.
Aside from the upper design, you should also pay attention to the sole design. Ensure that the boots you are going to buy provide very good grip both while using the bike or for walking. Remember that your feet are exposed to oil, water and mud while on the road.
You should also pay particular attention to the foot design of your boots. Ensure that your motorcycle boots provide a good grip of you heel and ankle to prevent unnecessary accidents. Also look for a shifter pad, even if your bike has a heel shift. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Lastly, look for a design that doesn’t have trimmings or laces that could get trapped on shift levers or other parts of the motorcycle.
Ventilation
Look for motorcycle boots that let your feet breathe. Just imagine how your feet might feel when they are next to the engine? High quality leather materials provide good ventilation.
The foot is one part of the body that carries all the weight and brunt of motorcycle riding. Thus, it is imperative that we buy a good pair of motorcycle boots that will help protect our feet.
Entries Tagged as 'motorcycles'
Motorcycle Boots Buying Basics
June 29th, 2008
More than Cool: Choosing a Motorcycle Jacket
June 26th, 2008
Getting a motorcycle jacket does more than raise your coolness factor. It also offers a lot in terms of protection, especially for long drives under natural and manmade elements. To choose a motorcycle jacket for protective purposes and for style, here are a few tips:
Buy for protection first.
The purpose of a motorcycle jacket is to protect you against the wind, sun, dust, rain and road debris like pebbles and whatnot. You might like the feel of the wind against your chest, but in colder weather, this is just not recommended. A jacket should protect your skin against scratches in case of road accidents.
If you want more ventilation, then choose jackets that are vented. These allow the wind in to circulate between your jacket and your body, so you won’t feel as hot on warmer days.
Choose a leather motorcycle jacket
One of the most popular choices for a bike jacket is leather. These are tough, water resistant and able to withstand wear and tear. Besides, the more aged they are, the better they look.
If you’re buying leather, choose one that is supple and soft. While these may be more expensive, they will score high points for the comfort that it will provide you, especially if you’re planning to go on long rides. Look for heavy stitching on the hems and lapels. Good stitching is the mark of good craftsmanship and therefore of quality.
Inspect the jacket for consistency in texture and color, unless of course you’re looking for two-toned leather. The jacket should be consistent from the sleeves to the back and front and not look that three different cows contributed to it.
You might want to consider a motorcycle jacket that is thick enough to give you protection, but light enough to be comfortable. Thickness is more often than not directly proportional to weight and the thicker the jacket is, the more protection it will give you. If you will be spending a lot of time on the road, you might want a thicker jacket for better durability.
Price = Quality
You don’t need to spend a lot for a motorcycle jacket. Good ones normally start at about $60 while more expensive and detailed ones can go for $500 up. Custom-made leather jackets can cost more and will take more time to make, so be sure you’re willing to wait.
Don’t be afraid to shop around for good quality and price. When you find one that you like, wear it to see if it’s a good fit or not. If you’re going to be a true blue rider, you and your jacket will be together for a long time.
Need Motorcycle Parts? Buy Online
June 26th, 2008
With dozens of online stores selling motorcycle parts these days, it shouldn’t be much trouble to find one who could get you the best choice for a great price. If you’re knowledgeable about motorcycle parts enough to order online, this method of buying is not only convenient, it’s also fast and easy. Since most online stores keep their overhead to a minimum, you get more discounts for a wider variety of motorcycle parts.
Many of online purchases include easy-to-install parts like lights, air filters and exhausts because these could be ordered easily by non-technical bikers although it would help to know more about motorcycle parts and numbers for more specialized order.
Here are a few tips and info about getting motorcycle parts:
Know the part and number.
Motorcycle parts come in models and sizes indicated by a number or numbers, so when ordering online, make sure you know what exactly you need. Some sites charge a little extra for an online look-up.
Expect a few days for delivery.
Unlike offline stores, online stores need anywhere from 24 hours to 7 working days for your order to reach your doorstep. If you need it fast, paying for extra shipping cost can cut down shipping time significantly.
Sites to check for info and a look-see:
www.cycle-parts.com
Carries motorcycle parts for Triumph, Bombardier, Polaris, Ski Doo, Arctic Cat and Sea Doo other than their Harley, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Honda and Suzuki parts. To get the discounted price, include the part number with your order. Otherwise, you will be charged the regular retail price.
www.jcmotors.com
Sells parts and accessories for Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki and BMW motorcycles. Their site offers a convenient drop-down menu that lists parts to choose from: brakes and rotors, chains, sprockets, steering stabilizers, handlebars and controls and various parts for body work. They offer a satisfaction-guarantee service for every order, so check out their site for more detailed info.
www.metricthunder.com
Features separate pages for different brand name parts like Suzuki, Honda, Harley-Davidson, Yamaha and Kawasaki. There are also separate links for motorcycle and specialty parts and accessories.
www.american-made.com
This site boasts of having more than 13,000 parts for Harley Davidson motorcycles at a discounted price. You might also want to check out their ’specials’ page, which regularly features huge discounts on selected parts and accessories. Inquiries may be emailed through info@american-made.com.
www.necycle.com
If salvaged motorcycle parts is more your interest, check out this site. They have thousands of used parts in stock and requests can be made for free. If you also want aftermarket parts, there’s www.aftermarketmotorcyclespartsnow.com, which sells parts for all major motorcycle brands at a good discount.
Exciting motorcycle show to watch out for
June 21st, 2008
Motorcycle enthusiasts may think that the tracks are going to rest with the onset of the Christmas season but they are wrong. They should check the schedules of motorcycle shows in their respective areas and see which ones are worth going to as a family affair during the holiday season.
One exciting motorcycle show which will definitely brighten up the Christmas season and will stir the energies of motorcycle lovers is in Roseburg, Douglas County. Leave it to the imagination of the philanthropic adults of the area to think of something exciting to please all the children as well as motorcycle enthusiasts in the area this season
Children and adults who love motorcycle shows will have their eyes feasting on multi-colored motorcycles that were called in to substitute for the missing reindeers of Santa Claus. The motorcycle show and reindeer run aims to deliver toys for every boy and girl in the area.
Majority of the motorbike enthusiasts in the area are leading the motorbike and reindeer show.
And while everyone is getting excited with motorbike shows during the season, and even after the holidays, here is one for the record. Every motorbike enthusiast will be interested to know that a one of a kind motorbike show was held in Los Angeles and this time it was a motorbike auction show.
No less than the motorbike collection of television hero six million dollar man otherwise known as Steve McQueen was auctioned during the Motorbikes Auction Show in Los Angeles.
Fans and motorcycle enthusiasts were treated to the vintage or antique motorcycle collection and other memorabilia by the late action hero. The sale from the motorbike auction show earned as much as $2.9 million, including the motorcycle jacket worn by Steve McQueen with the brand Belstaff sold at thirty two thousand dollars.
These and some other motorcycle shows prove that motorcycle shows will always be part of any season, winter or summer. Motorcycle enthusiasts and fans are surely waiting for the next round of motorcycle shows or the next motorcycle auction shows in their areas.
For those who get frustrated with not so good weather which is often during winter, they can still feast their eyes on motorcycle shows and exhibits being held inside the malls. Some exhibits allow spectators to try the motorcycles and this would surely be fun for those who are itching to buy or just ride top motorcycle models.
Passion for the Motorcycle Collection
June 18th, 2008
Every individual has a strong passion for something that they are willing to give it every thing they can.
Most motorcycle enthusiasts will understand this passion. They know what it feels like to feel strongly about their motorcycle and the thrill it brings.
Consequently, motorcycle lovers will definitely bank on having their own motorcycle collection.
Motorcycle Collection
There are many motorcycle enthusiasts out there who will put their effort to come up with their own motorcycle collection.
This collection can showcase the various styles, features and specifications an individual prefers.
However, not everyone can indulge in buying anything that they desire. Some have to resort to saving their money to support the passion.
Some may have to limit their collection to a specific area just to have a definite expression.
This is why motorcycle collectors are very meticulous in buying the bikes.
They are also peculiar to certain details that an ordinary person wouldn’t give much attention.
To beginners out there who want to learn more about collecting motorcycles, here are some things to consider.
1.There are 4 general classifications in motorcycles that you can choose from, the American, the European, the Japanese and the multi-purpose types.
Each has its own style, detai, color and specification. It is all up to the taste of the individual and to what his or her heart really feels strongly for.
2.Vintage is good. They bring with them such good stories that come from the past. They also have this sense of history that you can always tell to friends and peers.
Just make sure that you have enough money to focus on this collection.
3. Choose the brand new ones. It should be in top condition. This can’t be undermined considering that you will use the motorbike when you go out in the road too.
4.Scooters aren’t motorcycles in the sense of a collector. Never mix up your purchase to small scooters or anything lower than 125 cc.
5.Choose the makes of your motorcycles properly. Most enthusiasts will definitely recommend the Japanese makes at the least.
6.The larger bikes are definitely the more desirable ones. They have more capacity and they look more beautiful to the eye.
However, if you consider entering races just keep in mind that more precaution will be needed.
7.Learn more from the internet. This is a good repository of useful information when it comes to makes, models and dealers.
The internet community is also a place where motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world meet to share views, passions and tips with regard to the collection.
Conclusion
Go ahead. Express yourself with people who share the same passion.
Motorcycle shops galore
June 17th, 2008
First things first, a motorcycle is basically a bicycle that is motorized. Though for some people, motorcycles have been synonymous with crime gangs, etc., They are currently quite popular as a practical alternative to vehicles.
Motorcycles are especially practical to use in urban areas where car sizes could be constrictive and eventually not ideal due to area’s limited urban space.
Fortunately, the motorcycle’s small size has an advantage. It is also quicker to maneuver, accelerate and run compared to a bulky car.
Also, motorcycles are a lot more affordable than the common car.
There is also another motorcycle misconception which claims that riding motorcycles is more dangerous.
Though there are cases where injuries were sustained from accidents via motorcycles, most of such accidents are actually caused by drivers of four-wheeled vehicles.
Thankfully, there are now motorcycle shops that offer training to riders of motorcycles both new and those that have considerable motorcycle riding experience. Doing such helps prevent serious injuries and accidents in the long run.
Motorcycle shops are everywhere
There are now many motorcycle shops in various areas, the same way that there are car shops and companies.
One such motorcycle shop is Harley Davidson. This famous motorcycle company now offer dealerships which exclusively sell their latest models of motorcycles.
One motorcycle shop is called Total Motorcycle. This particular shop carries anything and everything for the biker who is just beginning to enjoy motorcycling to the experienced rider.
Some of the motorcycle-related items available at this shop include batteries, apparel, helmets, books, gloves, jackets, spares, tires, suits, bike loans, magazines, insurance, security, manuals, among others.
The following motorcycle brands are also carried in this motorcycle shop: KTM, Hinda, Harley, Buell, BMW, Ural, Triumph, Moto, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Victory, Hsyung.
Also, any motorcycle preference you may have in terms of style is also available at this motorcycle shop. This includes supersport, cruiser, classic, naked, standard, custom, MX, dirt, enduro, off road.
This particular motorcycle shop also offers shipping to any area in the United States, Canada, UK or Australia for free.
Another motorcycle shop is Concord. They have been in the motorcycle business for more than three decades. They claim that they are the best in the field thanks to their highly-knowledgeable sales staff.
All in all, there are also motorcycle shops that sell varying motorcycle brands. Therefore, for those who do plan to buy a motorcycle, wear your leather suits, helmet and begin to shop for the motorcycle ride of your life.
Can You Bear the Weight of a Motorcycle Trailer?
June 13th, 2008
Traveling out of town is always a difficult trip to manage for motorcycle drivers because of the lack of space for their baggage. As such, remaining baggage that can’t be strapped down to your motorcycle must be strapped to your body. And no matter how securely you strap them, you still won’t be able to complete guarantee that your things won’t fall out once you hit a rough patch.
Motorcycle Riding with a Trailer
The solution to your problems is traveling with a motorcycle trailer. Although the term trailer makes us think of huge camping vans that are several times bigger than the largest Harley, don’t underestimate the power of your two-wheeled machine. Although it’s impossible for a motorcycle to bear the weight of a normal-sized trailer, any motorcycle however can easily carry a smaller version of it!
Loading and Packing Tips for Motorcycle Trailers
Balance is the key to effortless control of motorcycle drivers. Do your best to place your load or baggage on the middle part of the trailer. If this isn’t possible, the front part of the motorcycle trailer should carry the greater weight. Secure the load with straps to ensure that it won’t rock back and forth when the motorcycle starts moving. Unsecured luggage can ultimately affect the driver’s ability to control the motorcycle trailer while traveling which can then lead to an unfortunate accident.
No matter how tempted to do so, never overload your motorcycle trailer. In the worst case, the excessive weight of your motorcycle trailer can cause your motorcycle to overturn and for you to suffer from various and potentially serious injuries.
Tips for Driving with a Motorcycle Driver
Always make sure that the motorcycle trailer’s door is securely locked.
Always make sure that the motorcycle trailer is securely attached to your motorcycle. Try driving for a few miles and observe whether the motorcycle trailer shows signs of breaking away. Of course, make sure that you’re tying in the motorcycle trailer in such a way that it won’t cause damage to your motorcycle.
Never forget that you’re pulling a motorcycle trailer behind you. Having a motorcycle trailer behind will require you to make slight changes on your driving style. Once you forget that very important fact, you might as well sign away your life.
The market is filled with various types of motorcycle trailers so make sure that you choose one that’s most suitable to your needs. Motorcycle trailers can be pop-ups and foldable and even come with their own screened porch!
How to Buy and Take Care of Your Motorcycle Apparel
June 12th, 2008
Everyone who has been riding motorcycles knows very well the utmost importance of protecting one’s body. With a motorcycle you are more vulnerable than when you are in a car and thus you have to take all necessary precautionary measures to maintain safety. The helmet is a given in terms of biking protection, however, you shouldn’t overlook what you wear when riding. You should also take into consideration the motorcycle apparel you wear.
Motorcycle apparel should be designed for riding and one that keeps you insulated and dry during your rides. It should also be sturdy enough to protect your from scrapes and bruises in case of accidents. Motorcycle apparel serves as your second skin and keeping you warm in cold weather, or ventilated during warm weather. A good material for motorcycle apparel is leather.
When buying your motorcycle apparel you should ask the store or the manufacturer about the materials used for the gear. You should know whether it uses synthetic or natural fibers and materials. This also determines what kind of caring and cleaning steps are appropriate for its materials. This is especially important with leather gear, because with proper care motorcycle apparel can last to up to 10 years or even more.
Ask the store for maintenance or cleaning products that they recommend for the motorcycle apparel you are buying. If you are choosing leather gear, be sure to know the type of finish it has because that would greatly determine what kind of care would be appropriate. Stores sometimes have their own set of cleaning solutions for motorcycle apparel and it would be recommended to use them. If they are too expensive for your budget, look at their ingredients and find similar products in the supermarket.
Motorcycle apparel may cost a lot more than your regular clothes because they are made for riding. Despite the costs, they could be worth every penny because of the protection they could provide you. They can also help you build on your style as a rider. By wearing real motorcycle apparel you can definitely look and feel like a bike rider.
Buying motorcycle apparel should be considered as an investment by any rider. With god motorcycle apparel, you can ride with style and at the same time feel confident about your warmth and safety. So go ahead to your local motorcycle apparel store and find the gear that fits you and your taste.
The pros and cons of motorcycle stunt
June 11th, 2008
Motorcycle riders and fans all over the world are always on the lookout for motorcycle stunts that will keep them hooked to their seats or on any stable ground from where they are watching. The truth is that fans all over the world live for motorcycle stunts.
The word stunt is usually associated with action scenes or dangerous movements made by any person either on stage, on television or movies and even live performances. The common denominator is that a stunt involves risk to the performer or the person doing the stunt.
Some stunts are done by bare hands such as jumping on top of a building while some stunts are done using vehicles or motorcycles. Motorcycle lovers flock to motorcycle shows and exhibitions because of the stunts that the riders do no matter how dangerous.
Motorcycle stunts are more dangerous because the rider only has two wheels to support him and there is always the danger of his head being heavily injured despite the use of helmets and padding.
Any stunt for that matter requires prior planning as to the safety of the performer as well as the audience. There are stunts that are done to shock the performers without looking into the possible harm that may be caused to all the people involved in the stunt.
In the first place, motorcycle stunts should only be done by riders who are already considered experts in their field. Novices in the world or motorcycle riding and racing shouldn’t be allowed to do stunts that would endanger their safety and even their lives.
Even experienced stuntmen should ask themselves whether or not doing the stunt is worth the danger posed to them. Some do stunts for enjoyment, others for fame and glory while some do it for money. Others simply do it for the adrenaline.
Every motorcycle stunt should follow a plan or a script which should be implemented to the letter to minimize the risks on the safety of the performer and the audience.
Motorcycle riders should be honest with themselves and evaluate their capabilities. They should be responsible enough to know the risks involved in doing the stunts. Everyone has their own limits and they shouldn’t push themselves too hard to do motorcycle stunts that are beyond their capabilities.
Riders are a wild bunch and they will always go for broke. It may be the excitement that gives them the energy and the resoluteness to do dangerous motorcycle stunts. Whatever the reason is, they should always be ready to face the consequences of such acts.
Buying a Used Motorcycle
June 10th, 2008
If you are thinking of buying a motorcycle, you might as well consider buying a used one. If it is your first time to buying a motorcycle, buying a used one have several advantages.
Aside from the lower amount that you would spend on a used motorcycle, a second-hand will be vital on your future spending for motorcycles. If you don’t really know the type and brand of motorcycle that would best fit your needs, then it would be advisable to buy a used one so that you can evaluate the concern personally.
What are some important things to know about buying a used motorcycle? Here are some useful tips:
a) Be aware of your needs
If you are buying a motorcycle, you have to consider your needs. Do you need a motorcycle for commuting to and from your office? Or do you want to feel the wind as you travel across the country? Do you simply want a machine that can get you around your subdivision? Different types of motorcycles are used for different purposes. Know the one that you need.
b) Know your options
You shouldn’t rush into buying a motorcycle, even if it’s a cheap used one. There are many venues where you can look at available motorcycles. A good place to start is on the Internet. Auction sites such as ebay.com offer a virtual market place which can be accessed by everyone around the world. The vast amount of information online can be used to compare prices and know the reviews for certain motorcycles.
Another option is for you to attend a local motorcycle auction. These auctions usually post their announcements in conspicuous places but you’d better check with the local partners regarding the schedule.
The classified sections of newspapers can also be used as a guide to buy a used motorcycle. You can contact the seller and see the item personally.
c) Bring a mechanic with you
For first-time buyers, it’s always important to have someone who has the knowledge about the nitty gritty details of motorcycles with you. A normal person, even though he some knowledge about motorcycles, will only see half as much details as an ordinary mechanic.
c) Test drive
If your mechanic says that a certain motorcycle is worth its price, then you can go ahead with testing it. A test drive is necessary because once you buy it, you can’t give it back.
Motorcycles are fun and versatile machines, this is why many people are buying used ones. Make sure that you know what you are buying and why you are buying it so that you can enjoy.