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Motorcycle suspension-mastering a black art by

Suspension Set-up: The basicsWhether you are a road rider or a racer correct suspension setup is the key to fast smooth riding and consistent lap times. To get the best out of your bike it needs to be set up for the conditions in which you will be riding. It is considerably easier to set the bike up for the Track as you know what conditions will be like for the next hour or so and thus you can dial in the optimum settings for the that particular situation.To what extent you change your suspension settings will depend on whether your bike will also have to cope with riding on the road. Unlike Roads Tracks are generally smooth and grippy. So if you are only going to use the bike on the track you have the luxury of fitting harder springs and modifying the fork and shock internals. If you ride on the road as well as the track you will probably want to keep a certain comfort level and concentrate on just optimizing the current equipmentWith incorrect suspension setup, tire wear is increased and handling suffers, which in turn can result in rider fatigue. Lap times can be dramatically slower and in extreme cases safety can be compromised. Hopefully the following guide will help you dial in your suspension for faster and safer riding both on and off the track.Firstly you will need to check the Fork and Shock sag: this is the amount the forks and rear shock settle under load. To measure it do the following: push down on the forks a number of times to settle them, then mark the stanchion with a felt pen or put a cable tie where the dust seal is sitting. Next ask some for help to lift on the bars so the front wheel is just off the ground and measure the amount the forks have traveled down. This is the static sag (or unladen sag), This can be changed by adjusting the spring preload (more preload = less sag). Repeat the same process for the rear, this time measuring the distance from the wheel spindle to a fixed point on the tail. Now you are ready to begin setting up your suspension. The key is to do it a little at a time and make notes as you go. For road riding start with the wet track settings and work from there.Basic Setup: Check the followingForks sag 18-22 mm for dry track, 23-27mm for rain.Shock sag 8-10mm for dry track, 10-14mm for rain.Check chain alignment. If not correct, bike will crab walk and sprocket wear will be increased.Proper tire balance and pressure, starting with 30psi front and 32psi rear (both dry and wet).Steering head bearings and torque specifications - if too loose, there will be head shake at high speeds.Front-end alignment. Check wheel alignment with triple clamps. If out of alignment, fork geometry will be incorrect and steering will suffer.Crash damage, check for proper frame geometry.Stock Suspension Tuning LimitationsManufacturers plan on designing a bike that works moderately well for a large section of riders and usages. To accomplish this as economically as possible, they use valving with very small venturis. These are then matched to a very basic shim stack which creates a damping curve for the given suspension component. At slower speeds this design can work moderately well, but at higher speeds, when the suspension must react more quickly, the suspension will not flow enough oil, and will experience hydraulic lock. With hydraulic lock, the fork and/or shock cannot dampen correctly and handling suffers. The solution is to re-valve the active components to gain a proper damping curve. It does not matter what components you have, (Ohlins, Fox, Kayaba, Showa) matching them to your intended use and weight will vastly improve their action. Furthermore, if you can achieve the damping curve that is needed, it does not matter what brand name is on the component. Often with stock components, when you turn the adjusters full in or out, you do not notice a difference. In part, this is due to the fact that the manufacturer has put the damping curve in an area outside of your ideal range. Also, because the valves have such small venturis, the adjuster change makes very little difference. After re-valving, the adjusters will be brought into play, and when you make an adjustment, you will be able to notice that it affects the way the way the fork or shock performs.Another problem with stock suspension is the springs that are used. Often they are progressive, increasing the spring rate with increased compression distance. This means that the valving is correct for only one part of the spring's travel, all other is compromise. If the factory does install a straight-rate spring, it is rarely the correct rate for the weight of the rider with gear. The solution is to install a straight-rate spring that matches the valving for the combined weight of the bike, rider and gear to the type of riding intended.Remember!• Always make small adjustments, more is not always better.• Always keep notes of what you have done.• Suspension tuning is an art - be patient

About the Author

mark Thompson Lives in Spain and runs a number of websites including www.worldoftheweird.com and www.trackbikes.co.uk


Leather Jacket Blazer Coat Bomber Biker Skirt Pants Vests Handbags by

This is the world of fashion: the beautiful models, the runways, the photographers, and the clothes. Fashion is not only what we wear, it is also how we describe ourselves to the world. When you’re deciding which fashion is for you, take the time to consider your figure and style and also how you want to be perceived. Style.....! What comes in style ? Different patterns of dresses, new fashionable clothings & accessories . If you’re wearing a leather apparel , you will be the one who has a 'great new look'. Leather fashion encompass a great collection of Quality Leather Apparel - leather jacket, biker, fur coat, vest, skirt,pants, halter, shorts and accessories with an outstanding service . The hottest trend in the fashion industry is "LEATHER". The industry has emerged with trendy leather apparel & accessories for dashing men and women . Try this approach: choose a leather style that you feel comfortable and confident in, accessorize it with a few tasteful choices (such as a nice bag) and enjoy your evening out. Leather Apparels are commonly available in many different styles and colours. The Classic Italian lambskin blazers, dyed fur collections in Jackets are very soft, comfortable, well fitting and can last longer. They are great to wear in cold weather because they can retain body heat and are wind proof as well. Fits in with the "cruiser" look and style. Choose a leather apparel that flatters your individual figure : leather jackets, leather bombers, leather pants, leather bikers, leather cycle jackets, leather motorcycle jackets, leather coats, leather skirts, riding chap pants, leather handbags and accessories, leather vests, leather tank tops, leather shorts, leather hot pants, leather halter. Get all at your door step in an compatable price. About the author: Martina Jastin leather-fashion-online.com is a leading online provider of Quality Leather Apparels. For more information and an introduction to leather accessories , please visit us at www.leather-fashion-online.comfashion_leather@yahoo.com

Leather pants | Leather chaps | Leather Biker pants by


Leather motorcycle jackets, Leather cycle jackets, Leather Biker jackets and pants by

In this century everybody wants to change ,we also want to look diffrent than other. For change , some guy try to ware diffrent type of dresses ,hair style & so many things, but i think leather one of the thing that gives the diffterent look you can choose diffent variety of leather apparel like leather jackets, biker, fur coats,vests,leather motorcycle jackets, skirts,pants, halter, shorts and accessories with an outstanding service . Leather Apparels are commonly available in many different styles and colours. The Classic Italian Lambskin blazers, dyed fur collections in Jackets are very soft, comfortable, well fitting and can last longer. They are great to wear in cold weather because they can retain body heat and are wind proof as well. Fits in with the "cruiser" look and style. Leather-jacket-world Premium leather jackets, leather bombers, leather pants, leather skirts, leather motorcycle jackets, leather bikers, coats, halter. Try this approach: choose a leather style that you feel comfortable and confident in, accessorize it with a few tasteful choices (such as a nice bag) and enjoy your evening out.

About the Author

Rosly Leather Jacket World. All about Leather motorcycle jackets and biker leather motorcycle jacket,leather bomber jacket motor. http://www.leather-motorcycle-jackets.8k.com


Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan by

Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan Jay Fran

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans.

Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan.

Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan.

Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing too much.

The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not asking the right questions.

The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask: Is the interest rate fixed or variable If fixed how long will it be fixed for Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future What happens if a payment is 30 days late Does the interest rate increase What happens if a payment is 60 days late Does the interest rate increase How long is the term on the motorcycle loan If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early. What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan Is full coverage insurance required How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

Copyright c 2004, by Jay Fran

This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, authors information and an active live link to http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com is published with the article.

A complimentary copy of any newsletter or a link to the site where the article is posted is greatly appreciated.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! by

Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! Jay Fran

With the depreciation on motorcycles being so enormous after they are driven off the showroom floor, the potential for a buyer owing more on their motorcycle loan than the bike is worth it quite high. Owing more on your bike than it is worth is often referred to as the world of “up side Down#8221;.

Many people finding themselves in this situation discover that financial lessons are sometimes the hardest and most expensive to learn. Motorcycle loans of more than 48 months especially without a down payment put you in the position of owing more than the value of the bike.

Let’s take a look at this phenomenon.

First, the interest calculation your lender uses can make a big difference in your situation, especially in the first 18 months. There are two primary interest calculations, pre-computed combined with rule of 78 and simple interest.

Pre-computed interest combined with Rule of 78, is typically the worst situation for a buyer because most of the interest is paid in the first 24 months. Therefore, in the first 24 months little of the monthly payment has gone towards paying down principal. If a buyer wishes to sell or trade in the motorcycle within this timeframe they will likely find themselves owing more than the bike is worth. Statistics show that the average owner trades in every 18-24 months.

Simple interest on the other hand, is much more favorable for buyers since interest accrues on the balance of the loan. However, buyers that extend their loans for greater than 48 months can still find themselves up side down with simple interest. This is especially true if a down payment is not made. The reason this occurs is that the motorcycle depreciates faster than the principal is paid; leaving the balance owed to the lender to be more than the bike can be sold for.

A common view that many people have is that they will just surrender their motorcycle to the lender if they are caught in an “up side Down#8221; position. If you are considering this option don’t! Your worries do not just end after your bike is surrendered or repossessed; in fact they are just beginning. The lender will sell your bike at an auction for much less than it is worth. You will still owe the difference between the amount you owed on your loan and the amount the motorcycle sold for at auction. So if you owe $5000 and the bike sells for $1500, you still are responsible for owing the lender $3500. To make it worse lenders may tack on hefty auction fees which you will owe as well. So the net result is that you are now responsible for making monthly payments on a bike you can no longer ride.

So what steps can you take to prevent from being caught “up side Down#8221;

1. Find a lender that uses simple interest. Avoid lenders that use pre-computed / Rule of 78 interest calculations.

2. Always try to put money down on your purchase.

3. Try to avoid motorcycle loans that extend past 36 months.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher for a website that specializes in Motorcycle Loans: Poor Credit Approvals Available. A comprehensive resource on simple interest motorcycle financing, poor credit, new, used and bad credit motorcycle loans.

http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com/


Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket by

Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket Daniel Levy

How To Tell When to Buy an OEM or an Aftermarket Part for Your Motorcycle

This is always a difficult one to answer when shopping for motorcycle parts and I firmly believe that each one of us must decide whats best for our bikes AFTER carefully evaluating each of the possibilities.

For me

Well... it really depends on what I am looking for - just replacement or improvement - , the availability of the part, my budget and other things. Sometimes I buy OEM, others aftermarket motorcycle parts.

Keep reading. You will find some views that will hopefully help you decide the next time you shop for motorcycle parts.

What a heck are OEM parts

OEM parts stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts which not necessarily mean the OM Original Manufacturer actually produced them. You know, many motorcycle and automobile manufacturers dont manufacture each of the parts used in their vehicles. They frequently have the parts designed and manufactured by outside independent companies and then, install them in their machines or put them in their own boxes to be sold as OEM parts!

Good to know when buying OEM Motorcycle Parts:

When you buy OEM Motorcycle Parts you are buying the exact same original part the manufacturer used to build your motorcycle, that means:

Same performance as the part installed in your motorcycle right now. The part wont be better nor worse than the original part you want to replace.

Normally OEM parts a more in some cases MUCH more expensive than aftermarket parts.

Motorcycle and car agencies clerks will normally tell you OEM Parts are higher quality and the best option for replacements. Is this true Well sometimes it is, sometimes its not.

Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part! :-

BE CAREFUL if your bike is still in its guarantee period make sure you use only OEM parts and have them installed by authorized mechanics. If you dont do so, you will probably void the guarantee.

What about Aftermarket parts

Aftermarket parts should perform as well as OEM parts but are produced by companies other than the original manufacturers.

Things to know when buying Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts:

MAKE SURE YOUR GUARANTEE PERIOD IS OVER. In many cases, you can VOID your guarantee if you have an aftermarket part installed by an unauthorized mechanic in your machine. I know I said it before, but its worth repeating; I happened to me! :-

Equivalent aftermarket Suzuki motorcycle parts are normally cheaper than OEM parts. Sometimes up to 70% cheaper!

Aftermarket parts can have lower,the same or higher quality than the original.

When buying aftermarket parts make sure you are getting AT LEAST the same quality as the OEM part. If possible try to get some reviews about brands and performance. You can do it in the Internet, with your favorite mechanic or with fellow riders.

If you are looking for high performance parts and devices, you know the kind: carbon fiber, titanium, aerospace aluminum parts and gizmos, well you will probably find them as aftermarket motorcycle parts.

OEM or aftermarket motorcycle parts, sooner or later you will be shopping for them...

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... by



Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... Daniel Levy

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!

There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:

1.- In the books

2.- In the market

THE BOOKS

In the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.

Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithful information about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.

The National Automobile Dealers Association N.A.D.A. is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.

The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book".

THE MARKET

Another way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.

RECOMMENDATION

Prices may vary sometimes a lot depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.

Enjoy the Ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway by

Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway Mike Yeager

Wearing boots today is even more popular than ever. It used to be that boots were only for stomping through the mud with. Now however, boots can be as fashionable and stylish as you’d like. From motorcycle boots to cowboy boots and western boots, they’re all gaining in popularity. If you want to be on the edge of rugged fashion, get yourself some boots.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of boots are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

Both men and women are wearing boots to all occasions that would have been unthinkable a short while ago. If you’re considering adding boots to your shoes collection or if you’re looking at good solid work boots you can find anything you want on the internet.

Choose from only the best suppliers of boots. It doesn’t matter if its wolverine boots or fashionable thigh boots, you can find any style your looking for.

About The Author

Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.a1-shoes-4u.com/ mjy610@hotmail.com


A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. by

A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. Daniel Levy

A beautiful ride across cities and places named World Heritage by the Unesco, through an splendid protected natural area and ending in a surrealistic garden by artist Sir Edward James. Just keep reading...

The ride starts in Queretaro City at 5,970 ft above sea level.

Queretaro is a colonial city founded more than 500 years ago and named World Heritage by the Unesco in 1996 . Its located in the center of the country two hours North Mexico City. Nowadays it has become one of the most dynamic cities in Mexico due to the surrounding industrial parks where many international companies are located.

The first stop is just 45 minutes away: "La Peña de Bernal" The "Rock of Bernal". We are talking about the third biggest rock in the world and the highest in Mexico. At its feet a quaint little town were you can stop for a soda, lunch or spend the night. You can also find nice little souvenirs. Whatever you decide to do, this place is a must.

If you like rock climbing, you are in the right place too!

The road to Bernal doesnt present any major challenge, most of the road is straight with just a few extended curves... but just after passing Bernal it starts to get fun!

Surrounded by an arid landscape due the high content of lime in the soil, you start with a very interesting section of twisties, one after another, up and down, a technical road between the mountains for about 30 miles. The landscape changes a bit as you advance and a few miles later you are in the middle of a semidesert.

After this twisty section you then continue on a straight part of the road. A few more miles down the route and you find a military checkpoint... Dont worry about it, they are normally courteous people just looking for arm and drug smugglers.

After the control point the curves and the fun start again. As you get to "Peña Blanca" "White Rock" in English - by the way if you need gas, this is the place to stop and fill it up - you start climbing the mountains twist after twist.

I love this part: most of the ride you can clearly see three or four turns in front of you, and as it is a low traffic road, you can enjoy yourself taking the best lines always keeping it in the safe side if you know what I mean!.

After climbing for a while you notice how things start to change and suddenly what were rocks, sand and cactus are now pine trees. Its beautiful.. You feel the change of temperature and then you reach "La Puerta del Cielo" The Door of Heavens" the highest point in this ride.

We are now at about 9200 feet above sea level... The turns continue but now you are going downhill. Remember to adjust your riding to that fact. Unfortunately I have seen more than one forgetting about it that and paying the consequences.

As you start descending you ride through a small town called Pinal the Amoles... descend, turn turn, descend turn turn, descend turn turn... I love it! About 10 miles after Pinal de Amoles, the weather starts to change again and gets warmer. The vegetation also suffers a sudden transformation.

You keep devouring the road and you cannot help but getting marveled of the landscape around you... Just remember to keep your eyes on the road! Turn, turn... You are in the middle of the Sierra Gorda protected area and home of multiple plants and animals.

You continue descending till you reach Jalpan de Serra the most important town in the Sierra Gorda and place where Father Junipero Serra built one of his most important missions in the area before heading north to build the Missions in California. These missions were also named World Heritage by the Unesco in 2003.

In Jalpan you can find a couple of simple but nice hotels and some restaurants. Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a few more miles west to a place called Conca where you ll find a hotel with Spa to relax from the days ride and get ready for the rest of the trip.

After Jalpan our next stop and final destination is Xilitla, so you head north-east till you reach the state of San Luis Potosi.

A few miles after crossing the state limits in the middle of the mountains, at about 3,300 ft asl, in a rain forest of incredible vegetation you get to Xilitla.

This town was chosen by Sir Edward James, a surrealistic British artist - also noble and rich -, to spend the rest of his life. It is in this place he built a huge garden, a private zoo and a meditation place in the middle of the jungle. Its very difficult to describe it with words... Maybe the photos in this site can help: http://www.junglegossip.com/.

In Xilitla you can stay in the Castillo "The Castle" the house of former Sir Edward James right hand and friend: Plutarco Gastelum. This exclusive Bed and Breakfast is unique in its kind and you can see, feel and breath the influence of the artist everywhere.

Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a bit more to the north and stay in Ciudad Valles an important city of San Luis Potosi state where you will find all kind of hotels and restaurants, night life etc.

My recommendation... stay at the Castillo, forget about your ride and enjoy for a whole day this Mexican Shangri La.

After spending the whole day in Xilitla prepare for a long ride back to Queretaro. For this one I like to leave early in the morning and keep, if possible, a fast pace. Turn, turn...

We are talking about many miles and literally hundreds of twisties... Once my wife counted them... She stopped when she was at the 500th and we hadnt arrived back to Queretaro City yet!

Its so fun that the time flies and suddenly you realize its all over and you would like to turn around and do it again...

You know the feeling right

Another possibility from Xilitla is to head to the famous Huasteca Potosina a zone of exuberant rivers, waterfalls and springs... But that area deserves a whole article by itself. I will be writing it in the future.

If you liked the trip I described and want more information about great motorcycle rides in Mexico and/or to contact me for any other issue please visit my site at www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

P.S. Below you will find a few facts about this ride.

Facts about the ride:

Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced Recommended time to enjoy the trip: 3-4 days Total length of the ride: about 600 miles Checkpoints: Queretaro-Bernal Bernal-Military Checkpoint Military Checkpoint-Pinal de Amoles Pinal de Amoles-Jalpan de Serra Jalpan de Serra-Xilitla

Weather: normally clear and dry with the exception of the rainy season from July to September where you can find some heavy rain.

Recommended Map: Guia Roji Mexico Tourist Road Atlas. You can find it at Amazon.

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.


A beginner’s guide to Motorcycle Parts by

Once you hop in a motorcycle and realize that you have deep interest in riding it, I’m definitely sure you’ll have lots of questions in your mind. You’ll probably ask the basic questions on how to start and drive it with the use of gears. These are common questions of beginners who are willing to indulge on the road to driving motorcycles. Knowing the parts of your motorcycles and how they work together to keep your motorcycles running can be quite interesting too.In order for you to learn riding and start riding, you must first learn the basics of the motorcycle parts and how they function. If you get to know the parts very well, you can now begin your curiosity in riding your first bike.There are many different parts of the motorcycle. These parts are considered general because all motorcycles regardless of the brands contain the same parts. I’ll be giving you a short discussion on the important parts.The clutch is a lever which is found in the left-hand grip of your motorcycle. You operate it with the use of your fingers. It is responsible for releasing mechanism and operates for shifting gears more easily. Motorcycles have cylinders but they differ in the number of cylinders. Motorcycles contain between the ranges of one to six cylinders. Most of the cylinders are liquid-cooled to prevent steaming of over-heating for extreme usage. You have the brake which is very important because it slows down the speed of the motorcycles to prevent it from bumping. There are two kinds of brakes. The first is the front brake which is located at the right hand of the motorcycle. It is responsible for stopping the front wheels of your motorcycle. The second is the rear brake which operates to stop the back wheels of the motorcycles. It is operated with the use of our foot. Thought hey both work differently, they work together to prevent serious accidents.The suspension works to keep you comfortable in riding. It provides you with a stable and smooth ride on rough edges and areas. The gas tank is where you place gas which is where your motorcycle is being fed with gasoline. The gear shift which is foot-operated is responsible for shifting gears.The spark plug operates as an igniter to start the engines to cause the effect of combustion. The ignition switch is where you start the motorcycle with your keys. Once it is already witched on, the motorcycle is now ready to be operated. The handlebar is where you place your right and left arms for steering and pivoting. He throttle is found in the right grip of your hand. The throttle increases the speed of the motorcycle. It is being operated by twisting it with your hand. The side mirrors are of great help to the motorcycle rider. It allows them to look behind even in a very fast lane without looking backwards. In order to view your behind very well, these side mirrors should be at the right angle and should always be clear. The hors serves as a warning especially on a busy street where people and vehicles are rushing through.Now that you are introduced with the parts, you can now start your first motorcycle ride and enjoy safe riding!For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.aftermarketmotorcyclepartsnow.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


A Closer Look at Hydrogen Powered Motorcycles by

An innovation has recently triggered the riders’ curiosity and scrutiny. This was all about the launching of hydrogen powered motorcycles. These motorcycles are called ENV (pronounced as envy) or emissions neutral vehicle. The speed is 50 mph or 80 km/h at the range of at least 100 miles or 160 km. Said motorcycles can run for four hours before its fuel-cell needs recharging.Intelligent Energy, maker of ENV, has designed the fuel-cell motorcycle to look simple, clean and user-friendly. Aside from the fact that it is run by a fuel cell called Core, it also produces low sound compared to the rest of the motorcycles. Said Core is detachable from the motorcycle and can be used to power small household properties. The battery pack serves to provide 6 kilowatts of peak load to the motor. With it, motorcycle can tend to become too quiet eliminating the usual excruciating roar. In addition, anti-noise campaigners are welcoming it on the streets. This can open to a whole new experience to all the riders out there. The only drawback though is that said motorcycle can not more or less warn other vehicles or passersby for that matter.In one of his interviews, Harry Bradbury, chief executive of the bike's British manufacturers Intelligent Energy said, "What we are doing is introducing flexibility into it, so that you can have ambient noise that is tolerable - low-level noise sufficient for safety reasons - but which can be switched off when desired." ENV is a pollution-free motorcycle. In fact, according to its designers, even its water-vapor emissions are drinkable because they are so clean. With the state’s endeavor to clean up the air, the use of ENV can be a good alternative. What about the price? The hydrogen fill-up could cost $3. Motorcycle parts are another thing. A prototype of ENV as divulged in London could cost more than $8,300. However, riders are expecting that price will be around $6,000. But expectations may fail. The bike is expected to be open to buyers next year. The expected first’s buyers are probably the nations of China and India where motorcycles are common modes of transportation. However, it is predicted that ENV will not sell much in the United States because Americans view motorcycles as leisure vehicles and not so much for other reasons.This advancement in technology can bring about major advantage in our environment especially to the attainment of clean air. Aside from the fact that it will reduce air and noise pollution in the streets, it can still be a good source of transportation and adventure.

About the Author

For Comments and Questions about the Article you may Log - on to http://www.motorcyclepartstrade.com


Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan by

Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan Jay Fran

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans.

Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan.

Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan.

Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing too much.

The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not asking the right questions.

The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask: Is the interest rate fixed or variable If fixed how long will it be fixed for Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future What happens if a payment is 30 days late Does the interest rate increase What happens if a payment is 60 days late Does the interest rate increase How long is the term on the motorcycle loan If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early. What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan Is full coverage insurance required How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

Copyright c 2004, by Jay Fran

This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, authors information and an active live link to http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com is published with the article.

A complimentary copy of any newsletter or a link to the site where the article is posted is greatly appreciated.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! by

Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! Jay Fran

With the depreciation on motorcycles being so enormous after they are driven off the showroom floor, the potential for a buyer owing more on their motorcycle loan than the bike is worth it quite high. Owing more on your bike than it is worth is often referred to as the world of “up side Down#8221;.

Many people finding themselves in this situation discover that financial lessons are sometimes the hardest and most expensive to learn. Motorcycle loans of more than 48 months especially without a down payment put you in the position of owing more than the value of the bike.

Let’s take a look at this phenomenon.

First, the interest calculation your lender uses can make a big difference in your situation, especially in the first 18 months. There are two primary interest calculations, pre-computed combined with rule of 78 and simple interest.

Pre-computed interest combined with Rule of 78, is typically the worst situation for a buyer because most of the interest is paid in the first 24 months. Therefore, in the first 24 months little of the monthly payment has gone towards paying down principal. If a buyer wishes to sell or trade in the motorcycle within this timeframe they will likely find themselves owing more than the bike is worth. Statistics show that the average owner trades in every 18-24 months.

Simple interest on the other hand, is much more favorable for buyers since interest accrues on the balance of the loan. However, buyers that extend their loans for greater than 48 months can still find themselves up side down with simple interest. This is especially true if a down payment is not made. The reason this occurs is that the motorcycle depreciates faster than the principal is paid; leaving the balance owed to the lender to be more than the bike can be sold for.

A common view that many people have is that they will just surrender their motorcycle to the lender if they are caught in an “up side Down#8221; position. If you are considering this option don’t! Your worries do not just end after your bike is surrendered or repossessed; in fact they are just beginning. The lender will sell your bike at an auction for much less than it is worth. You will still owe the difference between the amount you owed on your loan and the amount the motorcycle sold for at auction. So if you owe $5000 and the bike sells for $1500, you still are responsible for owing the lender $3500. To make it worse lenders may tack on hefty auction fees which you will owe as well. So the net result is that you are now responsible for making monthly payments on a bike you can no longer ride.

So what steps can you take to prevent from being caught “up side Down#8221;

1. Find a lender that uses simple interest. Avoid lenders that use pre-computed / Rule of 78 interest calculations.

2. Always try to put money down on your purchase.

3. Try to avoid motorcycle loans that extend past 36 months.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher for a website that specializes in Motorcycle Loans: Poor Credit Approvals Available. A comprehensive resource on simple interest motorcycle financing, poor credit, new, used and bad credit motorcycle loans.

http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com/


Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket by

Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket Daniel Levy

How To Tell When to Buy an OEM or an Aftermarket Part for Your Motorcycle

This is always a difficult one to answer when shopping for motorcycle parts and I firmly believe that each one of us must decide whats best for our bikes AFTER carefully evaluating each of the possibilities.

For me

Well... it really depends on what I am looking for - just replacement or improvement - , the availability of the part, my budget and other things. Sometimes I buy OEM, others aftermarket motorcycle parts.

Keep reading. You will find some views that will hopefully help you decide the next time you shop for motorcycle parts.

What a heck are OEM parts

OEM parts stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts which not necessarily mean the OM Original Manufacturer actually produced them. You know, many motorcycle and automobile manufacturers dont manufacture each of the parts used in their vehicles. They frequently have the parts designed and manufactured by outside independent companies and then, install them in their machines or put them in their own boxes to be sold as OEM parts!

Good to know when buying OEM Motorcycle Parts:

When you buy OEM Motorcycle Parts you are buying the exact same original part the manufacturer used to build your motorcycle, that means:

Same performance as the part installed in your motorcycle right now. The part wont be better nor worse than the original part you want to replace.

Normally OEM parts a more in some cases MUCH more expensive than aftermarket parts.

Motorcycle and car agencies clerks will normally tell you OEM Parts are higher quality and the best option for replacements. Is this true Well sometimes it is, sometimes its not.

Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part! :-

BE CAREFUL if your bike is still in its guarantee period make sure you use only OEM parts and have them installed by authorized mechanics. If you dont do so, you will probably void the guarantee.

What about Aftermarket parts

Aftermarket parts should perform as well as OEM parts but are produced by companies other than the original manufacturers.

Things to know when buying Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts:

MAKE SURE YOUR GUARANTEE PERIOD IS OVER. In many cases, you can VOID your guarantee if you have an aftermarket part installed by an unauthorized mechanic in your machine. I know I said it before, but its worth repeating; I happened to me! :-

Equivalent aftermarket Suzuki motorcycle parts are normally cheaper than OEM parts. Sometimes up to 70% cheaper!

Aftermarket parts can have lower,the same or higher quality than the original.

When buying aftermarket parts make sure you are getting AT LEAST the same quality as the OEM part. If possible try to get some reviews about brands and performance. You can do it in the Internet, with your favorite mechanic or with fellow riders.

If you are looking for high performance parts and devices, you know the kind: carbon fiber, titanium, aerospace aluminum parts and gizmos, well you will probably find them as aftermarket motorcycle parts.

OEM or aftermarket motorcycle parts, sooner or later you will be shopping for them...

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... by



Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... Daniel Levy

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!

There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:

1.- In the books

2.- In the market

THE BOOKS

In the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.

Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithful information about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.

The National Automobile Dealers Association N.A.D.A. is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.

The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book".

THE MARKET

Another way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.

RECOMMENDATION

Prices may vary sometimes a lot depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.

Enjoy the Ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway by

Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway Mike Yeager

Wearing boots today is even more popular than ever. It used to be that boots were only for stomping through the mud with. Now however, boots can be as fashionable and stylish as you’d like. From motorcycle boots to cowboy boots and western boots, they’re all gaining in popularity. If you want to be on the edge of rugged fashion, get yourself some boots.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of boots are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

Both men and women are wearing boots to all occasions that would have been unthinkable a short while ago. If you’re considering adding boots to your shoes collection or if you’re looking at good solid work boots you can find anything you want on the internet.

Choose from only the best suppliers of boots. It doesn’t matter if its wolverine boots or fashionable thigh boots, you can find any style your looking for.

About The Author

Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.a1-shoes-4u.com/ mjy610@hotmail.com


A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. by

A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. Daniel Levy

A beautiful ride across cities and places named World Heritage by the Unesco, through an splendid protected natural area and ending in a surrealistic garden by artist Sir Edward James. Just keep reading...

The ride starts in Queretaro City at 5,970 ft above sea level.

Queretaro is a colonial city founded more than 500 years ago and named World Heritage by the Unesco in 1996 . Its located in the center of the country two hours North Mexico City. Nowadays it has become one of the most dynamic cities in Mexico due to the surrounding industrial parks where many international companies are located.

The first stop is just 45 minutes away: "La Peña de Bernal" The "Rock of Bernal". We are talking about the third biggest rock in the world and the highest in Mexico. At its feet a quaint little town were you can stop for a soda, lunch or spend the night. You can also find nice little souvenirs. Whatever you decide to do, this place is a must.

If you like rock climbing, you are in the right place too!

The road to Bernal doesnt present any major challenge, most of the road is straight with just a few extended curves... but just after passing Bernal it starts to get fun!

Surrounded by an arid landscape due the high content of lime in the soil, you start with a very interesting section of twisties, one after another, up and down, a technical road between the mountains for about 30 miles. The landscape changes a bit as you advance and a few miles later you are in the middle of a semidesert.

After this twisty section you then continue on a straight part of the road. A few more miles down the route and you find a military checkpoint... Dont worry about it, they are normally courteous people just looking for arm and drug smugglers.

After the control point the curves and the fun start again. As you get to "Peña Blanca" "White Rock" in English - by the way if you need gas, this is the place to stop and fill it up - you start climbing the mountains twist after twist.

I love this part: most of the ride you can clearly see three or four turns in front of you, and as it is a low traffic road, you can enjoy yourself taking the best lines always keeping it in the safe side if you know what I mean!.

After climbing for a while you notice how things start to change and suddenly what were rocks, sand and cactus are now pine trees. Its beautiful.. You feel the change of temperature and then you reach "La Puerta del Cielo" The Door of Heavens" the highest point in this ride.

We are now at about 9200 feet above sea level... The turns continue but now you are going downhill. Remember to adjust your riding to that fact. Unfortunately I have seen more than one forgetting about it that and paying the consequences.

As you start descending you ride through a small town called Pinal the Amoles... descend, turn turn, descend turn turn, descend turn turn... I love it! About 10 miles after Pinal de Amoles, the weather starts to change again and gets warmer. The vegetation also suffers a sudden transformation.

You keep devouring the road and you cannot help but getting marveled of the landscape around you... Just remember to keep your eyes on the road! Turn, turn... You are in the middle of the Sierra Gorda protected area and home of multiple plants and animals.

You continue descending till you reach Jalpan de Serra the most important town in the Sierra Gorda and place where Father Junipero Serra built one of his most important missions in the area before heading north to build the Missions in California. These missions were also named World Heritage by the Unesco in 2003.

In Jalpan you can find a couple of simple but nice hotels and some restaurants. Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a few more miles west to a place called Conca where you ll find a hotel with Spa to relax from the days ride and get ready for the rest of the trip.

After Jalpan our next stop and final destination is Xilitla, so you head north-east till you reach the state of San Luis Potosi.

A few miles after crossing the state limits in the middle of the mountains, at about 3,300 ft asl, in a rain forest of incredible vegetation you get to Xilitla.

This town was chosen by Sir Edward James, a surrealistic British artist - also noble and rich -, to spend the rest of his life. It is in this place he built a huge garden, a private zoo and a meditation place in the middle of the jungle. Its very difficult to describe it with words... Maybe the photos in this site can help: http://www.junglegossip.com/.

In Xilitla you can stay in the Castillo "The Castle" the house of former Sir Edward James right hand and friend: Plutarco Gastelum. This exclusive Bed and Breakfast is unique in its kind and you can see, feel and breath the influence of the artist everywhere.

Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a bit more to the north and stay in Ciudad Valles an important city of San Luis Potosi state where you will find all kind of hotels and restaurants, night life etc.

My recommendation... stay at the Castillo, forget about your ride and enjoy for a whole day this Mexican Shangri La.

After spending the whole day in Xilitla prepare for a long ride back to Queretaro. For this one I like to leave early in the morning and keep, if possible, a fast pace. Turn, turn...

We are talking about many miles and literally hundreds of twisties... Once my wife counted them... She stopped when she was at the 500th and we hadnt arrived back to Queretaro City yet!

Its so fun that the time flies and suddenly you realize its all over and you would like to turn around and do it again...

You know the feeling right

Another possibility from Xilitla is to head to the famous Huasteca Potosina a zone of exuberant rivers, waterfalls and springs... But that area deserves a whole article by itself. I will be writing it in the future.

If you liked the trip I described and want more information about great motorcycle rides in Mexico and/or to contact me for any other issue please visit my site at www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

P.S. Below you will find a few facts about this ride.

Facts about the ride:

Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced Recommended time to enjoy the trip: 3-4 days Total length of the ride: about 600 miles Checkpoints: Queretaro-Bernal Bernal-Military Checkpoint Military Checkpoint-Pinal de Amoles Pinal de Amoles-Jalpan de Serra Jalpan de Serra-Xilitla

Weather: normally clear and dry with the exception of the rainy season from July to September where you can find some heavy rain.

Recommended Map: Guia Roji Mexico Tourist Road Atlas. You can find it at Amazon.

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.


A beginner’s guide to Motorcycle Parts by

Once you hop in a motorcycle and realize that you have deep interest in riding it, I’m definitely sure you’ll have lots of questions in your mind. You’ll probably ask the basic questions on how to start and drive it with the use of gears. These are common questions of beginners who are willing to indulge on the road to driving motorcycles. Knowing the parts of your motorcycles and how they work together to keep your motorcycles running can be quite interesting too.In order for you to learn riding and start riding, you must first learn the basics of the motorcycle parts and how they function. If you get to know the parts very well, you can now begin your curiosity in riding your first bike.There are many different parts of the motorcycle. These parts are considered general because all motorcycles regardless of the brands contain the same parts. I’ll be giving you a short discussion on the important parts.The clutch is a lever which is found in the left-hand grip of your motorcycle. You operate it with the use of your fingers. It is responsible for releasing mechanism and operates for shifting gears more easily. Motorcycles have cylinders but they differ in the number of cylinders. Motorcycles contain between the ranges of one to six cylinders. Most of the cylinders are liquid-cooled to prevent steaming of over-heating for extreme usage. You have the brake which is very important because it slows down the speed of the motorcycles to prevent it from bumping. There are two kinds of brakes. The first is the front brake which is located at the right hand of the motorcycle. It is responsible for stopping the front wheels of your motorcycle. The second is the rear brake which operates to stop the back wheels of the motorcycles. It is operated with the use of our foot. Thought hey both work differently, they work together to prevent serious accidents.The suspension works to keep you comfortable in riding. It provides you with a stable and smooth ride on rough edges and areas. The gas tank is where you place gas which is where your motorcycle is being fed with gasoline. The gear shift which is foot-operated is responsible for shifting gears.The spark plug operates as an igniter to start the engines to cause the effect of combustion. The ignition switch is where you start the motorcycle with your keys. Once it is already witched on, the motorcycle is now ready to be operated. The handlebar is where you place your right and left arms for steering and pivoting. He throttle is found in the right grip of your hand. The throttle increases the speed of the motorcycle. It is being operated by twisting it with your hand. The side mirrors are of great help to the motorcycle rider. It allows them to look behind even in a very fast lane without looking backwards. In order to view your behind very well, these side mirrors should be at the right angle and should always be clear. The hors serves as a warning especially on a busy street where people and vehicles are rushing through.Now that you are introduced with the parts, you can now start your first motorcycle ride and enjoy safe riding!For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.aftermarketmotorcyclepartsnow.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


A Closer Look at Hydrogen Powered Motorcycles by

An innovation has recently triggered the riders’ curiosity and scrutiny. This was all about the launching of hydrogen powered motorcycles. These motorcycles are called ENV (pronounced as envy) or emissions neutral vehicle. The speed is 50 mph or 80 km/h at the range of at least 100 miles or 160 km. Said motorcycles can run for four hours before its fuel-cell needs recharging.Intelligent Energy, maker of ENV, has designed the fuel-cell motorcycle to look simple, clean and user-friendly. Aside from the fact that it is run by a fuel cell called Core, it also produces low sound compared to the rest of the motorcycles. Said Core is detachable from the motorcycle and can be used to power small household properties. The battery pack serves to provide 6 kilowatts of peak load to the motor. With it, motorcycle can tend to become too quiet eliminating the usual excruciating roar. In addition, anti-noise campaigners are welcoming it on the streets. This can open to a whole new experience to all the riders out there. The only drawback though is that said motorcycle can not more or less warn other vehicles or passersby for that matter.In one of his interviews, Harry Bradbury, chief executive of the bike's British manufacturers Intelligent Energy said, "What we are doing is introducing flexibility into it, so that you can have ambient noise that is tolerable - low-level noise sufficient for safety reasons - but which can be switched off when desired." ENV is a pollution-free motorcycle. In fact, according to its designers, even its water-vapor emissions are drinkable because they are so clean. With the state’s endeavor to clean up the air, the use of ENV can be a good alternative. What about the price? The hydrogen fill-up could cost $3. Motorcycle parts are another thing. A prototype of ENV as divulged in London could cost more than $8,300. However, riders are expecting that price will be around $6,000. But expectations may fail. The bike is expected to be open to buyers next year. The expected first’s buyers are probably the nations of China and India where motorcycles are common modes of transportation. However, it is predicted that ENV will not sell much in the United States because Americans view motorcycles as leisure vehicles and not so much for other reasons.This advancement in technology can bring about major advantage in our environment especially to the attainment of clean air. Aside from the fact that it will reduce air and noise pollution in the streets, it can still be a good source of transportation and adventure.

About the Author

For Comments and Questions about the Article you may Log - on to http://www.motorcyclepartstrade.com


Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan by

Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan Jay Fran

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans.

Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan.

Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan.

Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing too much.

The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not asking the right questions.

The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask: Is the interest rate fixed or variable If fixed how long will it be fixed for Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future What happens if a payment is 30 days late Does the interest rate increase What happens if a payment is 60 days late Does the interest rate increase How long is the term on the motorcycle loan If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early. What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan Is full coverage insurance required How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

Copyright c 2004, by Jay Fran

This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, authors information and an active live link to http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com is published with the article.

A complimentary copy of any newsletter or a link to the site where the article is posted is greatly appreciated.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! by

Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! Jay Fran

With the depreciation on motorcycles being so enormous after they are driven off the showroom floor, the potential for a buyer owing more on their motorcycle loan than the bike is worth it quite high. Owing more on your bike than it is worth is often referred to as the world of “up side Down#8221;.

Many people finding themselves in this situation discover that financial lessons are sometimes the hardest and most expensive to learn. Motorcycle loans of more than 48 months especially without a down payment put you in the position of owing more than the value of the bike.

Let’s take a look at this phenomenon.

First, the interest calculation your lender uses can make a big difference in your situation, especially in the first 18 months. There are two primary interest calculations, pre-computed combined with rule of 78 and simple interest.

Pre-computed interest combined with Rule of 78, is typically the worst situation for a buyer because most of the interest is paid in the first 24 months. Therefore, in the first 24 months little of the monthly payment has gone towards paying down principal. If a buyer wishes to sell or trade in the motorcycle within this timeframe they will likely find themselves owing more than the bike is worth. Statistics show that the average owner trades in every 18-24 months.

Simple interest on the other hand, is much more favorable for buyers since interest accrues on the balance of the loan. However, buyers that extend their loans for greater than 48 months can still find themselves up side down with simple interest. This is especially true if a down payment is not made. The reason this occurs is that the motorcycle depreciates faster than the principal is paid; leaving the balance owed to the lender to be more than the bike can be sold for.

A common view that many people have is that they will just surrender their motorcycle to the lender if they are caught in an “up side Down#8221; position. If you are considering this option don’t! Your worries do not just end after your bike is surrendered or repossessed; in fact they are just beginning. The lender will sell your bike at an auction for much less than it is worth. You will still owe the difference between the amount you owed on your loan and the amount the motorcycle sold for at auction. So if you owe $5000 and the bike sells for $1500, you still are responsible for owing the lender $3500. To make it worse lenders may tack on hefty auction fees which you will owe as well. So the net result is that you are now responsible for making monthly payments on a bike you can no longer ride.

So what steps can you take to prevent from being caught “up side Down#8221;

1. Find a lender that uses simple interest. Avoid lenders that use pre-computed / Rule of 78 interest calculations.

2. Always try to put money down on your purchase.

3. Try to avoid motorcycle loans that extend past 36 months.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher for a website that specializes in Motorcycle Loans: Poor Credit Approvals Available. A comprehensive resource on simple interest motorcycle financing, poor credit, new, used and bad credit motorcycle loans.

http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com/


Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket by

Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket Daniel Levy

How To Tell When to Buy an OEM or an Aftermarket Part for Your Motorcycle

This is always a difficult one to answer when shopping for motorcycle parts and I firmly believe that each one of us must decide whats best for our bikes AFTER carefully evaluating each of the possibilities.

For me

Well... it really depends on what I am looking for - just replacement or improvement - , the availability of the part, my budget and other things. Sometimes I buy OEM, others aftermarket motorcycle parts.

Keep reading. You will find some views that will hopefully help you decide the next time you shop for motorcycle parts.

What a heck are OEM parts

OEM parts stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts which not necessarily mean the OM Original Manufacturer actually produced them. You know, many motorcycle and automobile manufacturers dont manufacture each of the parts used in their vehicles. They frequently have the parts designed and manufactured by outside independent companies and then, install them in their machines or put them in their own boxes to be sold as OEM parts!

Good to know when buying OEM Motorcycle Parts:

When you buy OEM Motorcycle Parts you are buying the exact same original part the manufacturer used to build your motorcycle, that means:

Same performance as the part installed in your motorcycle right now. The part wont be better nor worse than the original part you want to replace.

Normally OEM parts a more in some cases MUCH more expensive than aftermarket parts.

Motorcycle and car agencies clerks will normally tell you OEM Parts are higher quality and the best option for replacements. Is this true Well sometimes it is, sometimes its not.

Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part! :-

BE CAREFUL if your bike is still in its guarantee period make sure you use only OEM parts and have them installed by authorized mechanics. If you dont do so, you will probably void the guarantee.

What about Aftermarket parts

Aftermarket parts should perform as well as OEM parts but are produced by companies other than the original manufacturers.

Things to know when buying Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts:

MAKE SURE YOUR GUARANTEE PERIOD IS OVER. In many cases, you can VOID your guarantee if you have an aftermarket part installed by an unauthorized mechanic in your machine. I know I said it before, but its worth repeating; I happened to me! :-

Equivalent aftermarket Suzuki motorcycle parts are normally cheaper than OEM parts. Sometimes up to 70% cheaper!

Aftermarket parts can have lower,the same or higher quality than the original.

When buying aftermarket parts make sure you are getting AT LEAST the same quality as the OEM part. If possible try to get some reviews about brands and performance. You can do it in the Internet, with your favorite mechanic or with fellow riders.

If you are looking for high performance parts and devices, you know the kind: carbon fiber, titanium, aerospace aluminum parts and gizmos, well you will probably find them as aftermarket motorcycle parts.

OEM or aftermarket motorcycle parts, sooner or later you will be shopping for them...

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... by



Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... Daniel Levy

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!

There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:

1.- In the books

2.- In the market

THE BOOKS

In the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.

Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithful information about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.

The National Automobile Dealers Association N.A.D.A. is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.

The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book".

THE MARKET

Another way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.

RECOMMENDATION

Prices may vary sometimes a lot depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.

Enjoy the Ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway by

Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway Mike Yeager

Wearing boots today is even more popular than ever. It used to be that boots were only for stomping through the mud with. Now however, boots can be as fashionable and stylish as you’d like. From motorcycle boots to cowboy boots and western boots, they’re all gaining in popularity. If you want to be on the edge of rugged fashion, get yourself some boots.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of boots are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

Both men and women are wearing boots to all occasions that would have been unthinkable a short while ago. If you’re considering adding boots to your shoes collection or if you’re looking at good solid work boots you can find anything you want on the internet.

Choose from only the best suppliers of boots. It doesn’t matter if its wolverine boots or fashionable thigh boots, you can find any style your looking for.

About The Author

Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.a1-shoes-4u.com/ mjy610@hotmail.com


A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. by

A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. Daniel Levy

A beautiful ride across cities and places named World Heritage by the Unesco, through an splendid protected natural area and ending in a surrealistic garden by artist Sir Edward James. Just keep reading...

The ride starts in Queretaro City at 5,970 ft above sea level.

Queretaro is a colonial city founded more than 500 years ago and named World Heritage by the Unesco in 1996 . Its located in the center of the country two hours North Mexico City. Nowadays it has become one of the most dynamic cities in Mexico due to the surrounding industrial parks where many international companies are located.

The first stop is just 45 minutes away: "La Peña de Bernal" The "Rock of Bernal". We are talking about the third biggest rock in the world and the highest in Mexico. At its feet a quaint little town were you can stop for a soda, lunch or spend the night. You can also find nice little souvenirs. Whatever you decide to do, this place is a must.

If you like rock climbing, you are in the right place too!

The road to Bernal doesnt present any major challenge, most of the road is straight with just a few extended curves... but just after passing Bernal it starts to get fun!

Surrounded by an arid landscape due the high content of lime in the soil, you start with a very interesting section of twisties, one after another, up and down, a technical road between the mountains for about 30 miles. The landscape changes a bit as you advance and a few miles later you are in the middle of a semidesert.

After this twisty section you then continue on a straight part of the road. A few more miles down the route and you find a military checkpoint... Dont worry about it, they are normally courteous people just looking for arm and drug smugglers.

After the control point the curves and the fun start again. As you get to "Peña Blanca" "White Rock" in English - by the way if you need gas, this is the place to stop and fill it up - you start climbing the mountains twist after twist.

I love this part: most of the ride you can clearly see three or four turns in front of you, and as it is a low traffic road, you can enjoy yourself taking the best lines always keeping it in the safe side if you know what I mean!.

After climbing for a while you notice how things start to change and suddenly what were rocks, sand and cactus are now pine trees. Its beautiful.. You feel the change of temperature and then you reach "La Puerta del Cielo" The Door of Heavens" the highest point in this ride.

We are now at about 9200 feet above sea level... The turns continue but now you are going downhill. Remember to adjust your riding to that fact. Unfortunately I have seen more than one forgetting about it that and paying the consequences.

As you start descending you ride through a small town called Pinal the Amoles... descend, turn turn, descend turn turn, descend turn turn... I love it! About 10 miles after Pinal de Amoles, the weather starts to change again and gets warmer. The vegetation also suffers a sudden transformation.

You keep devouring the road and you cannot help but getting marveled of the landscape around you... Just remember to keep your eyes on the road! Turn, turn... You are in the middle of the Sierra Gorda protected area and home of multiple plants and animals.

You continue descending till you reach Jalpan de Serra the most important town in the Sierra Gorda and place where Father Junipero Serra built one of his most important missions in the area before heading north to build the Missions in California. These missions were also named World Heritage by the Unesco in 2003.

In Jalpan you can find a couple of simple but nice hotels and some restaurants. Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a few more miles west to a place called Conca where you ll find a hotel with Spa to relax from the days ride and get ready for the rest of the trip.

After Jalpan our next stop and final destination is Xilitla, so you head north-east till you reach the state of San Luis Potosi.

A few miles after crossing the state limits in the middle of the mountains, at about 3,300 ft asl, in a rain forest of incredible vegetation you get to Xilitla.

This town was chosen by Sir Edward James, a surrealistic British artist - also noble and rich -, to spend the rest of his life. It is in this place he built a huge garden, a private zoo and a meditation place in the middle of the jungle. Its very difficult to describe it with words... Maybe the photos in this site can help: http://www.junglegossip.com/.

In Xilitla you can stay in the Castillo "The Castle" the house of former Sir Edward James right hand and friend: Plutarco Gastelum. This exclusive Bed and Breakfast is unique in its kind and you can see, feel and breath the influence of the artist everywhere.

Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a bit more to the north and stay in Ciudad Valles an important city of San Luis Potosi state where you will find all kind of hotels and restaurants, night life etc.

My recommendation... stay at the Castillo, forget about your ride and enjoy for a whole day this Mexican Shangri La.

After spending the whole day in Xilitla prepare for a long ride back to Queretaro. For this one I like to leave early in the morning and keep, if possible, a fast pace. Turn, turn...

We are talking about many miles and literally hundreds of twisties... Once my wife counted them... She stopped when she was at the 500th and we hadnt arrived back to Queretaro City yet!

Its so fun that the time flies and suddenly you realize its all over and you would like to turn around and do it again...

You know the feeling right

Another possibility from Xilitla is to head to the famous Huasteca Potosina a zone of exuberant rivers, waterfalls and springs... But that area deserves a whole article by itself. I will be writing it in the future.

If you liked the trip I described and want more information about great motorcycle rides in Mexico and/or to contact me for any other issue please visit my site at www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

P.S. Below you will find a few facts about this ride.

Facts about the ride:

Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced Recommended time to enjoy the trip: 3-4 days Total length of the ride: about 600 miles Checkpoints: Queretaro-Bernal Bernal-Military Checkpoint Military Checkpoint-Pinal de Amoles Pinal de Amoles-Jalpan de Serra Jalpan de Serra-Xilitla

Weather: normally clear and dry with the exception of the rainy season from July to September where you can find some heavy rain.

Recommended Map: Guia Roji Mexico Tourist Road Atlas. You can find it at Amazon.

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.


A beginner’s guide to Motorcycle Parts by

Once you hop in a motorcycle and realize that you have deep interest in riding it, I’m definitely sure you’ll have lots of questions in your mind. You’ll probably ask the basic questions on how to start and drive it with the use of gears. These are common questions of beginners who are willing to indulge on the road to driving motorcycles. Knowing the parts of your motorcycles and how they work together to keep your motorcycles running can be quite interesting too.In order for you to learn riding and start riding, you must first learn the basics of the motorcycle parts and how they function. If you get to know the parts very well, you can now begin your curiosity in riding your first bike.There are many different parts of the motorcycle. These parts are considered general because all motorcycles regardless of the brands contain the same parts. I’ll be giving you a short discussion on the important parts.The clutch is a lever which is found in the left-hand grip of your motorcycle. You operate it with the use of your fingers. It is responsible for releasing mechanism and operates for shifting gears more easily. Motorcycles have cylinders but they differ in the number of cylinders. Motorcycles contain between the ranges of one to six cylinders. Most of the cylinders are liquid-cooled to prevent steaming of over-heating for extreme usage. You have the brake which is very important because it slows down the speed of the motorcycles to prevent it from bumping. There are two kinds of brakes. The first is the front brake which is located at the right hand of the motorcycle. It is responsible for stopping the front wheels of your motorcycle. The second is the rear brake which operates to stop the back wheels of the motorcycles. It is operated with the use of our foot. Thought hey both work differently, they work together to prevent serious accidents.The suspension works to keep you comfortable in riding. It provides you with a stable and smooth ride on rough edges and areas. The gas tank is where you place gas which is where your motorcycle is being fed with gasoline. The gear shift which is foot-operated is responsible for shifting gears.The spark plug operates as an igniter to start the engines to cause the effect of combustion. The ignition switch is where you start the motorcycle with your keys. Once it is already witched on, the motorcycle is now ready to be operated. The handlebar is where you place your right and left arms for steering and pivoting. He throttle is found in the right grip of your hand. The throttle increases the speed of the motorcycle. It is being operated by twisting it with your hand. The side mirrors are of great help to the motorcycle rider. It allows them to look behind even in a very fast lane without looking backwards. In order to view your behind very well, these side mirrors should be at the right angle and should always be clear. The hors serves as a warning especially on a busy street where people and vehicles are rushing through.Now that you are introduced with the parts, you can now start your first motorcycle ride and enjoy safe riding!For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.aftermarketmotorcyclepartsnow.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


A Closer Look at Hydrogen Powered Motorcycles by

An innovation has recently triggered the riders’ curiosity and scrutiny. This was all about the launching of hydrogen powered motorcycles. These motorcycles are called ENV (pronounced as envy) or emissions neutral vehicle. The speed is 50 mph or 80 km/h at the range of at least 100 miles or 160 km. Said motorcycles can run for four hours before its fuel-cell needs recharging.Intelligent Energy, maker of ENV, has designed the fuel-cell motorcycle to look simple, clean and user-friendly. Aside from the fact that it is run by a fuel cell called Core, it also produces low sound compared to the rest of the motorcycles. Said Core is detachable from the motorcycle and can be used to power small household properties. The battery pack serves to provide 6 kilowatts of peak load to the motor. With it, motorcycle can tend to become too quiet eliminating the usual excruciating roar. In addition, anti-noise campaigners are welcoming it on the streets. This can open to a whole new experience to all the riders out there. The only drawback though is that said motorcycle can not more or less warn other vehicles or passersby for that matter.In one of his interviews, Harry Bradbury, chief executive of the bike's British manufacturers Intelligent Energy said, "What we are doing is introducing flexibility into it, so that you can have ambient noise that is tolerable - low-level noise sufficient for safety reasons - but which can be switched off when desired." ENV is a pollution-free motorcycle. In fact, according to its designers, even its water-vapor emissions are drinkable because they are so clean. With the state’s endeavor to clean up the air, the use of ENV can be a good alternative. What about the price? The hydrogen fill-up could cost $3. Motorcycle parts are another thing. A prototype of ENV as divulged in London could cost more than $8,300. However, riders are expecting that price will be around $6,000. But expectations may fail. The bike is expected to be open to buyers next year. The expected first’s buyers are probably the nations of China and India where motorcycles are common modes of transportation. However, it is predicted that ENV will not sell much in the United States because Americans view motorcycles as leisure vehicles and not so much for other reasons.This advancement in technology can bring about major advantage in our environment especially to the attainment of clean air. Aside from the fact that it will reduce air and noise pollution in the streets, it can still be a good source of transportation and adventure.

About the Author

For Comments and Questions about the Article you may Log - on to http://www.motorcyclepartstrade.com


Buying a Used Motorcycle Can Be a Good Choice by

Reasons For Buying A Used Motorcycle:Have you checked out the price of a new bike lately? It wasn't that long ago when you didn't have to fork out that much dough for a new car. In fact, many bikers will remember when you didn't have to pay much more than that for a modest house. The prices for houses and cars have shot up over the years. And, so has the prices of motorcycles. The point is, the price of a new bike can take a good-sized bite out of any budget. Buying a used motorcycle is one way to lessen the dent a motorcycle will make in your wallet.There are a number of benefits to buying a used motorcycle. The first is, of course, that you can save a lot of money. As a general rule, motorcycles lose a higher percent of their value when they roll out of the showroom than do automobiles. The possible exception to this is Harley-Davidson. Harleys always seem to retain a high resale value. The second reason is that many motorcycles are not ridden many miles each year, especially in colder climates. So, it is easier to find a good, low mileage bike. Makes such as Moto Guzzi are especially durable and a low mileage model will have many trouble-free miles left in it. A third reason is that if there are any quirks to be worked out of a new model or a particular machine, these will likely have been done by the time the second owner gets the bike.There are a number of sources available when buying a used motorcycle. You can buy a bike from the current owner. The classifieds online and in the newspapers are filled with ads for used bikes. You can also check with a dealership for trade-ins. Bikes at dealerships will often come with a warranty.Tips On Buying A Used MotorcycleSo, how do you make sure you get a good deal? Here are a few tips on buying a used motorcycle. First, check out a used motorcycle price guide. There are several good ones. A good one is the National Auto Dealers Association (N.A.D.A.) price guide. The prices in this monthly guide reflect the average price of motorcycles of similar make, model and condition across the nation. The price guide is issued monthly.Spend a little time reading the reviews of various makes and models. Many of these reviews are posted on the web and they can give you some subjective information on what these particular riders think about the bike.Check the condition of the motorcycle over closely. What is the condition of the drive belt, chain or drive shaft? Are the tires worn or weather checked? Has the bike ever been wrecked? Does it leak oil? Is the muffler or mufflers free of rust? Is the wiring in good shape? Does it start easily and run smoothly?If the deal likes like a go at this point, ask to take the bike for a test drive. While you are at it, if possible, take it to your mechanic and get a second opinion.If your mechanic gives you the OK, get your wallet out and enjoy the ride. Most makes of motorcycles these days are well engineered and high quality machines. Don't make the process of buying a bike a bigger deal than it needs to be. Used motorcycles are generally an excellent value, especially when compared to the price of new bikes. Besides, this is one time when it is fun to shop. So, have some fun buying a used motorcycle.

About the Author

The Motor Bookstore sells repair manuals for cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, farm tractors, and much more.


Choosing the right Tires for your Motorcycles by

All the parts of the motorcycle are essential and the tires are one of them. Basically, it is the most contributing factor that makes the motorcycles move. So if it is important, then tires should be given much attention too. There are different types of wheels for different types of motorcycles. It has different sizes and surfaces too. Some tires have spikes which are used for dirt bike races and other kinds of races. Some tires are smooth which are used in highways and concrete roads.Tires have to be maintained and checked once in a while because its durability depends on how much you use it. New tires are treated differently because it’s just like you being given a different task of work to do. You don’t get used to it easily so you need to adjust. Tires are like those too. They have to keep up or warmed in order to function well. New tires have to be used all over again several times. It’s important to keep your tires a little wasted to prevent it from sliding.Temperature affects the tire pressure and it is a contributing factor to the effects on your tires. What is meant by temperature is that when tires are not used long enough, they become a little bit cold. Time also affects the pressure of your tires. That particularly focuses on the duration of the tires. If you use your motorcycles often, don’t get shocked if you notice them getting thinner. Tire pressure should be observed and checked. If the day’s temperature is high and exceeds the normal, expect your tires to inflate. Though this may not be considered to be very dangerous, still it should be given measures.You should get the best tire suited for your motorcycle’s performance and compatibility. In purchasing tires, it is best if you would have enough knowledge in the details. If not, talk to your trusted dealers and mechanics. Of course they will sell out good products for their standard and company’s name. you should not take for granted the quality of your tires because if you think of budgeting to a low cost, you never notice your tires get spoiled in just a short time which entitles you to buy a new one again at a cheaper price. You can never go wrong in buying tires if you choose the ones with the correct brand and quality. It would be advisable if you pick commercial tires which are commonly being used by professionals and racers. Things you should consider in choosing tires are durability, level of performance, its ability to grip on wet surfaces and quality. The best way to maintain your tires is still by cleaning it up and avoiding it from scary areas.For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.aftermarketmotorcyclepartsnow.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan by

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans.

Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan.

Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan.

Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing too much.

The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not asking the right questions.

The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask:

Is the interest rate fixed or variable? If fixed how long will it be fixed for?

Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future?

What happens if a payment is 30 days late? Does the interest rate increase?

What happens if a payment is 60 days late? Does the interest rate increase?

How long is the term on the motorcycle loan?

If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest? (Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early.)

What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan?

Is full coverage insurance required?

How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan?

Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees?

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

Copyright (c) 2004, by Jay Fran

This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information and an active live link to http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com is published with the article.

A complimentary copy of any newsletter or a link to the site where the article is posted is greatly appreciated.

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Cross Country Motorcycle Riding by

Cross country motorcycle riding is an incredibly exhilarating feeling. The pungent smell of pines tingle your nose as the highway glides past beneath your feet. Trees line either side of the road flash by like a dark picket fence topped with green. Sunlight dances through the treetops drenching the gray-black highway in irregular shapes and patterns. The mountain air is fresh and clean as it pours into your lungs and tugs at your jacket and pants.Much of the hypnotic engine roar trails behind you like a jet vapor trail. Few things can match the joy of the open road while riding a well-tuned bike. The afternoon is made even better with the knowing that the trip has only begun. Days and miles of highway lay yet ahead.If you enjoy the outdoors, motorcycle travel is a great way to see the country. You can soak up the fresh air and sunshine as you drive down the highway. You have a much greater sense of being a part of your surroundings while riding a motorcycle. You feel you can almost reach out and touch the beauty of roadside flowers, trees and wildlife.There is also a special feeling of freedom and exhilaration that comes from racing down the highway with the power of the engine roaring between your legs and the wind in your face. That feeling cannot be matched with any other form of travel.Motorcycle travel is more than just the scenery and the sense of freedom. It is also the people you meet along the way. Bike riders are part of a select community of people. They invariably wave to one another when they meet along the highway. At rest stops and restaurants bikers go out of their way to meet and greet one another. As strangers they recognize they are members of this unique society. They exchange information about the highway ahead, weather conditions, and motorcycle maintenance tips. If a rider breaks down or gets into some travel-related difficulty, another motorcycle rider is almost sure to come along and offer help.There are certain precautions that should be taken when motorcycle touring, however.• First, make sure the bike is serviced and tuned up before departing on a long trip. Breaking down along the highway is a lonely and sickening feeling. This includes checking your tires and making sure they are in good to excellent condition.• Second, weather is always an issue when riding a motorcycle. Make sure you tuck a warm jacket and gloves in a saddle bag or in your trailer. Along with warm clothing you should also make sure you have rain gear. Rain somewhere along the trip is almost guaranteed.• Third, you will want to keep a plan of your route handy. An easy way to do this is to print a computer generated map of your trip and keep it in a plastic document protector or laminated in plastic. You can tape this to the tank or keep in a saddle bag for easy reference during rest stops. Another excellent way to keep on route, especially if you are a gadget hound, is with a GPS.• Fourth, maintain a means of communication. In this day of instant and easy communications there is simply no reason to go on a trip and be cut off from family, friends or help. Many touring bikes can be easily equipped with a C.B. radio. Riders traveling in a group can keep in contact with one another as well as get important information about highway conditions, etc. from truckers and other drivers.• Finally, carry a basic first aid kit in your saddle bags or trailer.Camping is fun at any time.For people who enjoy camping and the outdoors, motorcycle camping adds to the pleasure of riding. A day in the sun followed by sitting around a camp fire at night listening to the frogs and crickets is a great way to travel. Talk about getting away from the routine and the mundane.Motorcycle camping is also a great way to make new acquaintances along your journey. It is hard not to meet new people and share a fire, if not a meal, in a campground. It is a far different environment than the typical chain motel found at Interstate exits. The nice thing about motorcycle camping is that it is so easy. Ultra light, compact camping gear designed for motorcycle riders is readily available, easy to set up and use and inexpensively priced.For motorcycle riders planning a cross country trip or a camping trip while riding your motorcycle, careful planning will help make your trip more enjoyable. It is easy to capitalize on the experience of others. A few tips have been outlined in this article. A good book with tips and information about cross country motorcycle riding will give you a leg up planning your trip and avoiding travel pitfalls. One such book, which is an excellent source of information, is Going The Extra Mile: Insider Tips for Long-Distance Motorcycling and Endurance Rallies.Riding your motorcycle around your neighborhood or on day trips is a great way to enjoy your motorcycle. Taking your motorcycle on a long trip attaches a new dimension to riding your bike ownership. A motorcycle is transportation and it is recreation. A great way to combine transportation with recreation is a cross country motorcycle trip.

About the Author

The Motor Bookstore sells repair manuals and literature for cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, farm tractors, and much more.


Do you need a Part for your Harley Davidson Motorcycle? by

Need a Harley Davidson Part for your ride?Where do you get a good quality Harley Davidson Part? Can I use an aftermarket part?These questions are not easy to answer. It depends a lot on your situation, part you're looking for, and the money you want to spend.The bottom line......... you have to decide.I have a little information here that may be useful to you, so keep reading!An OEM part versus an aftermarket part.An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part are of course the genuine Harley Davidson Part you would find at an authorized Harley dealer.These parts are original in that they have the exact same specifications that came with the original part.These parts however many not have been manufactured by Harley Davidson themselves (at their physical location). Harley may get another company to manufacture these parts to Harley specs, and then they will sell them in the Harley box as OEM.OEM parts are generally more expensive, and almost always recommended by the dealer. (They make their money by selling parts not bikes)The dealer will most likely tell you that OEM parts are of a higher quality. This may or may not be true.An Aftermarket part should perform as well as an OEM but take note. These parts were made by a company other than the original manufacturer.Sometimes after a certain time period the original manufacturer of a part will allow the company that physically manufactured the part to sell it at a reduced price and in their own packaging. The part now becomes an OEM aftermarket part.Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM partSo what does this tell you about that Harley Davidson Part that you need?If you cannot find the quality in an aftermarket part, then search for the OEM provided it is in your price range.There is a lot of competition out there between vendors who want your dollar. An aftermarket Harley part, for your Harley Davidson are generally of good to excellent quality.If you own a Harley, sooner or later you will have to buy parts for it. Buying online has its conveniences and you don't have to go downtown and fight traffic.

About the Author

Keith Nivon is an avid Harley Davidson Motorcycle Enthusiast! His website contains information on all things Harley Davidson. http://www.everything-harley-davidson.com is a great article resource for anyone who shares a passion for Harley Davidson Motorcycles. Have a look at http://www.everything-harley-davidson.com/harley-davidson-part.html for more info on parts.


Extra Accessories for riding your Motorcycle safely by

If you engage too much in your riding your motorcycles, I bet you would also spend too much for your riding accessories. Those who spend many years driving their motorcycles have proven these equipments, gears and accessories to be very helpful. Aside from the common accessories like helmets and foot gear, you will also need a couple of survival outfit and equipments for which some consider as optional but I guess these would be pretty helpful in one way or the other.Some motorcyclists use earplugs. This will save your ears from the excessive noise and disturbance on the streets. Imagine if you are in a heavy traffic stuck for about a couple of hours, think of how much noise you will encounter. All those horns, engine revolutions and car beeps are very painful and throbbing to the ears. With the use of the earplugs, you will get a hassle-free feeling and noise-free traveling. You can bring along food and water containers when exposed on a sunny hot ride. You will definitely need these especially if you engage in long hours of traveling. What is five minutes of stopping to feed your thirst and stomach for a while?You should bring a little face towel for wiping once in a while your sweat. I’m pretty sure you can’t bear to drive with all your perspiration boiling down to your neck. Wiping your sweat will give you ease and comfort in riding.When it comes to safety, you should bring along a first aid kit. You never know when these will be helpful so better be always ready. You can place the kit under the seat of your motorcycle. I’m quite sure you won’t bring a medical box so it will definitely fit in there. You should bring your ID for references in case one commits an accident. ID’s have been very helpful in most accidents. Those who have been involved in accidents are easily identified and their folks are quickly informed and notified. These infos are very helpful and make it easy to track down the person’s personal infos for hospital purposes. Carrying your cell phones is pretty helpful too. If you are going to a place which you are not familiar with, you can easily call a friend for instructions and information. If you are in a hurry for an urgent meeting or appointment, you can inform them immediately if you cannot come on time because you had a flat tire or you were unluckily caught under the heavy traffic.Understanding these tips is very useful so we should not take these simple things for granted. You don’t know when these circumstances will come your way. There’s no better way to deal with it but simply just be prepared. For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


For the best in tires, try a Dunlop Motorcycle Tire. by

Dunlop motorcycle tires have been long known for their high quality and reliability. Worldwide, motorcyclists of all skill levels depend on Dunlop motorcycle tires. In fact, Dunlop tires are used by more motorcyclists than any other brand. This is largely because of Dunlop tire’s devotion to excellence. In order to learn how successful the company is today, it is necessary to look at the company’s history. In 1888, John Boyd Dunlop invented the first practical pneumatic tire. In doing so, he created a whole new industry. Using innovative technology, Dunlop introduced the first use of Kevlar belts in motorcycle tires and produced the first original-equipment radial street tire. Dunlop tire also continues to lead the industry with new ideas, like the 20-inch front tire for off-road use. Dunlop leads the motorcycle tire industry in its continuing research to improve the motorcycle tire. Also, Dunlop is still the only company to make motorcycle tires in the United States. It is important to take care of your Dunlop motorcycle tire. Be sure to properly maintain it by storing it properly and maintain suspension settings in exact compliance with the vehicle owner's manual. If your motorcycle tires are improperly maintained, it could lead to flats, low tire pressure, or other potentially dangerous situations. If you don’t have any experience maintaining your motorcycle tire, be sure to take your motorcycles in to the motorcycle dealer for regular maintenance checks. About the author: Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.my-tire-4me.com/

Frequent Mistakes Made When Looking For Motorcycle Loans by

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans. Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan. Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000. Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership. The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom. Borrowing too much. The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle. Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan. Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term. Not asking the right questions. The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions. Here are some good questions to ask: • What happens if a payment is 30 days late? Does the interest rate increase? • Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees? • Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future? • If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest? (Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early.) • What happens if a payment is 60 days late? Does the interest rate increase? • How long is the term on the motorcycle loan? • Is the interest rate fixed or variable? If fixed how long will it be fixed for? • What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan? • Is full coverage insurance required? • How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan? Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions. About the author: Copyright (c) 2005, by Jay Fran. This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information, and at least one of the below active live links is published with the article. http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com/military-motorcycle-loans.htmlAbout The Author: Jay Fran is a successful author for www.motorcycle-financing-guide.coma website that specializes in finding the best low interest rate online motorcycle loans, including used motorcycle loans.

Getting to know your Motorcycle Parts by

A motorcycle is generally defined as a vehicle with two wheels which is mainly used for the purpose of transporting in land areas. Motorcycles, though small can be compared to automobiles when it comes to speeding. Motorcycles have been enhanced and further improved. Same as mobiles, motorcycle riders need to acquire themselves driver’s license with definite rules for such. Recently, there are different kinds of motorcycle models in relief for the expensive purchase of auto mobiles. Motorcycles compared to automobiles are very handy and requires less fuelling. A motorcycle’s ability can be greatly expanded if upgraded with the best motorcycle parts and brands.If you want to enormously indulge in your motorcycle interests, you definitely need to know the different motorcycle parts. A simple motorcycle generally includes an engine for the gasoline with two steel wheels attached on it. A motorcycle contains a tank which is being located at the top of the engine. The fork is mainly used for pivoting where the wheels and the axle are connected. Handlebars play the role of pivoting the front wheels of the motorcycles which is next to the shock absorber and power which is used for ignition.The engine is considered to be the heart of the motorcycle because it is where everything runs and starts. It is responsible for starting or igniting the motorcycles within a cylinder with the use of fuel or gasoline. The engine is responsible for moving and giving energy to the piston to perform a rotary motion which turns the wheel. The unit of measure of the engine’s size is expressed in cubic centimeters which stand for the volume of cylinders. Motorcycles have transmission which is responsible for controlling the speed, gears, clutches and shifts. The wheels on your motorcycles have brakes which are activated on the hand grip and foot pedal. The suspension is responsible for maintaining the smooth run of the motorcycle in bumpy rough road areas with the help of the shock absorbers. These shock absorbers are very important for dirt bikes because it helps to avoid the engines from being extremely shaken when flying and coursing through the race tracks.Motorcycles have seats same as automobiles but they do not look alike evenly. The seats have cushion for the convenience of the riders and the back riders too. Some motorcycles have small pockets behind the seats for small storages and carry-on luggage. These are the main parts that a typical motorcycle contains. These parts work together for the whole transmission and performance of motorcycles. If you are dissatisfied with your bike’s performance, upgrading your motorcycle parts would be a great deal. But make sure it matches the configuration of your motorcycles to perform greatly. For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


Helpful Tips on how to buy Motorcycles by

Buying motorcycles isn’t just about buying because you need to know some helpful tips ant hints to get the best deals. It would even be very helpful if you consult an expert so you will never have to go wrong or think that your money has been put to waste. In purchasing a used motorcycle, every part of it needs to be checked for durability. All goes well for well-maintained parts. Whether you are and expert or novice, you can easily identify it even by just looking at it. If the parts look grumpy and all worn-out, that won’t pretty serve you much for long. So why invest in buying a cheap one when it entitles you to overspend when it crashes.In buying motorcycles, it would be better if you know the owner you are buying from. At least you will have an idea on how the motorcycle has been treated if the owner took extra efforts in maintaining the motorcycle’s performance. You can also estimate as to whether the motorcycle you are purchasing will still have a longer life or spend your time keeping it up. Some experts say that purchasing second-hand or used motorcycles are better than new ones because the motorcycle has performed several times. Used motorcycles don’t need warming ups and series of road tests. There are other options in buying motorcycles. You can buy a motorcycle from an auction in companies and the Internet usually. When motorcycles are being sold, they deal it through auctions with great deals too. But purchasing with this type is first-come first-serve basis.If you really are in desperate need to purchase a motorcycle very soon, you can easily find one in the newspapers in the ads page. Internet ads and motorcycle sites offer their selling online. They offer product information, listings, pricing and specification. For assurance and warranties, you can buy your motorcycle from an authorized dealer. You can have great deals and discounts depending upon your contract. They also offer selling their products for easy installment for a given period of time. That sure is painless if you don’t have enough money and have other priorities. The simplest and most common way to purchase a motorcycle is through your friends. You will usually hear from them talking about selling motorcycles. If you purchase from a friend, prices can get lower and you can talk about the motorcycle’s condition and performance comfortably. You can also ask for advices because they pretty know well and they are used to operating the motorcycles themselves.No matter how you want to purchase a motorcycle, don’t always be in a hurry to buy one unless you are sure especially if you are a beginner. Of course you won’t want your money to be put waste.For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


How to Save Money on Motorcycle Repair by

Getting the most out of your bike’s repair job is good. But it would be better if you yourself are able to make the repair instead of having others service it. Doing your motorcycle’s maintenance is important for you to realize its fullest potentials.

Bike enthusiasts may not be familiar with the structure of their vehicles and could be missing out on the possibilities of maximizing the use of their motorcycles. Knowing your “horse” is very important if you want to understand it and give it the attention it needs.

The beauty of motorcycles is that is has a relatively open design meaning it is easy to be familiar with the inner workings of the bike. And this fact is going to save you money if you just know what to do and when to do it.

Personal maintenance of your bike is both a learning and rewarding experience. Of course you may opt to have others check-up your bike but nothing beats the satisfaction of having done a good job on your beloved motorcycle. It is fun and very much a worthwhile activity.

If you choose to be your bike’s personal physician, a good number of repair manuals are available that are filled with important information about motorcycles. It will provide you with the needed know-how regarding troubleshooting and maintenance. It also presents a detailed discussion of the engine, clutch, transmission, electrical system, wheels and final drive. The book will also give you tips on how to improve the bike's performance.

The basics of motorcycle repair are outlined in manuals like this making it easier for you to tinker with your bike. Making the necessary repair will be very easy with these manuals as they present you with a clear picture of what it takes to bring your bike back to life. There even also are pictures to further familiarize you with what part of your bike the manual is referring to. With this manual in hand, you need not just limit yourself to making minor repairs but you can also rebuild your engine if you wish so.

Even if you choose to keep your hands clean, it still would be good to understand how you bike works and what it needs to run smoothly. Troubleshooting is easier since you’d know beforehand what is wrong and can relay this information to the repairman. You can give him additional information that is sure to help in making the needed repair for your bike.

About The Author

Ariel Velasco goes by the author alias of Paul Hood. This author is into books and writing. Reading is an essential part of his life and this has lent a considerable influence in his writing. Well traveled and would always want to travel more. He loves learning more about people and their ways. Took up a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology to further this fascination and had a fulfilling educational experience having been exposed to a wide spectrum of people. Always ready for new opportunities to learn and have a great deal of interest in different fields of expertise.

For additional legal information and inquiries about the article log on to http://www.attorneyservicesetc.com

carmelo@attorneyservicesetc.com


Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan by

Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan Jay Fran

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans.

Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan.

Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan.

Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing too much.

The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not asking the right questions.

The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask: Is the interest rate fixed or variable If fixed how long will it be fixed for Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future What happens if a payment is 30 days late Does the interest rate increase What happens if a payment is 60 days late Does the interest rate increase How long is the term on the motorcycle loan If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early. What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan Is full coverage insurance required How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

Copyright c 2004, by Jay Fran

This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, authors information and an active live link to http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com is published with the article.

A complimentary copy of any newsletter or a link to the site where the article is posted is greatly appreciated.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! by

Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! Jay Fran

With the depreciation on motorcycles being so enormous after they are driven off the showroom floor, the potential for a buyer owing more on their motorcycle loan than the bike is worth it quite high. Owing more on your bike than it is worth is often referred to as the world of “up side Down#8221;.

Many people finding themselves in this situation discover that financial lessons are sometimes the hardest and most expensive to learn. Motorcycle loans of more than 48 months especially without a down payment put you in the position of owing more than the value of the bike.

Let’s take a look at this phenomenon.

First, the interest calculation your lender uses can make a big difference in your situation, especially in the first 18 months. There are two primary interest calculations, pre-computed combined with rule of 78 and simple interest.

Pre-computed interest combined with Rule of 78, is typically the worst situation for a buyer because most of the interest is paid in the first 24 months. Therefore, in the first 24 months little of the monthly payment has gone towards paying down principal. If a buyer wishes to sell or trade in the motorcycle within this timeframe they will likely find themselves owing more than the bike is worth. Statistics show that the average owner trades in every 18-24 months.

Simple interest on the other hand, is much more favorable for buyers since interest accrues on the balance of the loan. However, buyers that extend their loans for greater than 48 months can still find themselves up side down with simple interest. This is especially true if a down payment is not made. The reason this occurs is that the motorcycle depreciates faster than the principal is paid; leaving the balance owed to the lender to be more than the bike can be sold for.

A common view that many people have is that they will just surrender their motorcycle to the lender if they are caught in an “up side Down#8221; position. If you are considering this option don’t! Your worries do not just end after your bike is surrendered or repossessed; in fact they are just beginning. The lender will sell your bike at an auction for much less than it is worth. You will still owe the difference between the amount you owed on your loan and the amount the motorcycle sold for at auction. So if you owe $5000 and the bike sells for $1500, you still are responsible for owing the lender $3500. To make it worse lenders may tack on hefty auction fees which you will owe as well. So the net result is that you are now responsible for making monthly payments on a bike you can no longer ride.

So what steps can you take to prevent from being caught “up side Down#8221;

1. Find a lender that uses simple interest. Avoid lenders that use pre-computed / Rule of 78 interest calculations.

2. Always try to put money down on your purchase.

3. Try to avoid motorcycle loans that extend past 36 months.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher for a website that specializes in Motorcycle Loans: Poor Credit Approvals Available. A comprehensive resource on simple interest motorcycle financing, poor credit, new, used and bad credit motorcycle loans.

http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com/


Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket by

Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket Daniel Levy

How To Tell When to Buy an OEM or an Aftermarket Part for Your Motorcycle

This is always a difficult one to answer when shopping for motorcycle parts and I firmly believe that each one of us must decide whats best for our bikes AFTER carefully evaluating each of the possibilities.

For me

Well... it really depends on what I am looking for - just replacement or improvement - , the availability of the part, my budget and other things. Sometimes I buy OEM, others aftermarket motorcycle parts.

Keep reading. You will find some views that will hopefully help you decide the next time you shop for motorcycle parts.

What a heck are OEM parts

OEM parts stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts which not necessarily mean the OM Original Manufacturer actually produced them. You know, many motorcycle and automobile manufacturers dont manufacture each of the parts used in their vehicles. They frequently have the parts designed and manufactured by outside independent companies and then, install them in their machines or put them in their own boxes to be sold as OEM parts!

Good to know when buying OEM Motorcycle Parts:

When you buy OEM Motorcycle Parts you are buying the exact same original part the manufacturer used to build your motorcycle, that means:

Same performance as the part installed in your motorcycle right now. The part wont be better nor worse than the original part you want to replace.

Normally OEM parts a more in some cases MUCH more expensive than aftermarket parts.

Motorcycle and car agencies clerks will normally tell you OEM Parts are higher quality and the best option for replacements. Is this true Well sometimes it is, sometimes its not.

Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part! :-

BE CAREFUL if your bike is still in its guarantee period make sure you use only OEM parts and have them installed by authorized mechanics. If you dont do so, you will probably void the guarantee.

What about Aftermarket parts

Aftermarket parts should perform as well as OEM parts but are produced by companies other than the original manufacturers.

Things to know when buying Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts:

MAKE SURE YOUR GUARANTEE PERIOD IS OVER. In many cases, you can VOID your guarantee if you have an aftermarket part installed by an unauthorized mechanic in your machine. I know I said it before, but its worth repeating; I happened to me! :-

Equivalent aftermarket Suzuki motorcycle parts are normally cheaper than OEM parts. Sometimes up to 70% cheaper!

Aftermarket parts can have lower,the same or higher quality than the original.

When buying aftermarket parts make sure you are getting AT LEAST the same quality as the OEM part. If possible try to get some reviews about brands and performance. You can do it in the Internet, with your favorite mechanic or with fellow riders.

If you are looking for high performance parts and devices, you know the kind: carbon fiber, titanium, aerospace aluminum parts and gizmos, well you will probably find them as aftermarket motorcycle parts.

OEM or aftermarket motorcycle parts, sooner or later you will be shopping for them...

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... by



Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... Daniel Levy

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!

There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:

1.- In the books

2.- In the market

THE BOOKS

In the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.

Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithful information about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.

The National Automobile Dealers Association N.A.D.A. is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.

The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book".

THE MARKET

Another way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.

RECOMMENDATION

Prices may vary sometimes a lot depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.

Enjoy the Ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway by

Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway Mike Yeager

Wearing boots today is even more popular than ever. It used to be that boots were only for stomping through the mud with. Now however, boots can be as fashionable and stylish as you’d like. From motorcycle boots to cowboy boots and western boots, they’re all gaining in popularity. If you want to be on the edge of rugged fashion, get yourself some boots.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of boots are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

Both men and women are wearing boots to all occasions that would have been unthinkable a short while ago. If you’re considering adding boots to your shoes collection or if you’re looking at good solid work boots you can find anything you want on the internet.

Choose from only the best suppliers of boots. It doesn’t matter if its wolverine boots or fashionable thigh boots, you can find any style your looking for.

About The Author

Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.a1-shoes-4u.com/ mjy610@hotmail.com


A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. by

A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. Daniel Levy

A beautiful ride across cities and places named World Heritage by the Unesco, through an splendid protected natural area and ending in a surrealistic garden by artist Sir Edward James. Just keep reading...

The ride starts in Queretaro City at 5,970 ft above sea level.

Queretaro is a colonial city founded more than 500 years ago and named World Heritage by the Unesco in 1996 . Its located in the center of the country two hours North Mexico City. Nowadays it has become one of the most dynamic cities in Mexico due to the surrounding industrial parks where many international companies are located.

The first stop is just 45 minutes away: "La Peña de Bernal" The "Rock of Bernal". We are talking about the third biggest rock in the world and the highest in Mexico. At its feet a quaint little town were you can stop for a soda, lunch or spend the night. You can also find nice little souvenirs. Whatever you decide to do, this place is a must.

If you like rock climbing, you are in the right place too!

The road to Bernal doesnt present any major challenge, most of the road is straight with just a few extended curves... but just after passing Bernal it starts to get fun!

Surrounded by an arid landscape due the high content of lime in the soil, you start with a very interesting section of twisties, one after another, up and down, a technical road between the mountains for about 30 miles. The landscape changes a bit as you advance and a few miles later you are in the middle of a semidesert.

After this twisty section you then continue on a straight part of the road. A few more miles down the route and you find a military checkpoint... Dont worry about it, they are normally courteous people just looking for arm and drug smugglers.

After the control point the curves and the fun start again. As you get to "Peña Blanca" "White Rock" in English - by the way if you need gas, this is the place to stop and fill it up - you start climbing the mountains twist after twist.

I love this part: most of the ride you can clearly see three or four turns in front of you, and as it is a low traffic road, you can enjoy yourself taking the best lines always keeping it in the safe side if you know what I mean!.

After climbing for a while you notice how things start to change and suddenly what were rocks, sand and cactus are now pine trees. Its beautiful.. You feel the change of temperature and then you reach "La Puerta del Cielo" The Door of Heavens" the highest point in this ride.

We are now at about 9200 feet above sea level... The turns continue but now you are going downhill. Remember to adjust your riding to that fact. Unfortunately I have seen more than one forgetting about it that and paying the consequences.

As you start descending you ride through a small town called Pinal the Amoles... descend, turn turn, descend turn turn, descend turn turn... I love it! About 10 miles after Pinal de Amoles, the weather starts to change again and gets warmer. The vegetation also suffers a sudden transformation.

You keep devouring the road and you cannot help but getting marveled of the landscape around you... Just remember to keep your eyes on the road! Turn, turn... You are in the middle of the Sierra Gorda protected area and home of multiple plants and animals.

You continue descending till you reach Jalpan de Serra the most important town in the Sierra Gorda and place where Father Junipero Serra built one of his most important missions in the area before heading north to build the Missions in California. These missions were also named World Heritage by the Unesco in 2003.

In Jalpan you can find a couple of simple but nice hotels and some restaurants. Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a few more miles west to a place called Conca where you ll find a hotel with Spa to relax from the days ride and get ready for the rest of the trip.

After Jalpan our next stop and final destination is Xilitla, so you head north-east till you reach the state of San Luis Potosi.

A few miles after crossing the state limits in the middle of the mountains, at about 3,300 ft asl, in a rain forest of incredible vegetation you get to Xilitla.

This town was chosen by Sir Edward James, a surrealistic British artist - also noble and rich -, to spend the rest of his life. It is in this place he built a huge garden, a private zoo and a meditation place in the middle of the jungle. Its very difficult to describe it with words... Maybe the photos in this site can help: http://www.junglegossip.com/.

In Xilitla you can stay in the Castillo "The Castle" the house of former Sir Edward James right hand and friend: Plutarco Gastelum. This exclusive Bed and Breakfast is unique in its kind and you can see, feel and breath the influence of the artist everywhere.

Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a bit more to the north and stay in Ciudad Valles an important city of San Luis Potosi state where you will find all kind of hotels and restaurants, night life etc.

My recommendation... stay at the Castillo, forget about your ride and enjoy for a whole day this Mexican Shangri La.

After spending the whole day in Xilitla prepare for a long ride back to Queretaro. For this one I like to leave early in the morning and keep, if possible, a fast pace. Turn, turn...

We are talking about many miles and literally hundreds of twisties... Once my wife counted them... She stopped when she was at the 500th and we hadnt arrived back to Queretaro City yet!

Its so fun that the time flies and suddenly you realize its all over and you would like to turn around and do it again...

You know the feeling right

Another possibility from Xilitla is to head to the famous Huasteca Potosina a zone of exuberant rivers, waterfalls and springs... But that area deserves a whole article by itself. I will be writing it in the future.

If you liked the trip I described and want more information about great motorcycle rides in Mexico and/or to contact me for any other issue please visit my site at www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

P.S. Below you will find a few facts about this ride.

Facts about the ride:

Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced Recommended time to enjoy the trip: 3-4 days Total length of the ride: about 600 miles Checkpoints: Queretaro-Bernal Bernal-Military Checkpoint Military Checkpoint-Pinal de Amoles Pinal de Amoles-Jalpan de Serra Jalpan de Serra-Xilitla

Weather: normally clear and dry with the exception of the rainy season from July to September where you can find some heavy rain.

Recommended Map: Guia Roji Mexico Tourist Road Atlas. You can find it at Amazon.

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.


A beginner’s guide to Motorcycle Parts by

Once you hop in a motorcycle and realize that you have deep interest in riding it, I’m definitely sure you’ll have lots of questions in your mind. You’ll probably ask the basic questions on how to start and drive it with the use of gears. These are common questions of beginners who are willing to indulge on the road to driving motorcycles. Knowing the parts of your motorcycles and how they work together to keep your motorcycles running can be quite interesting too.In order for you to learn riding and start riding, you must first learn the basics of the motorcycle parts and how they function. If you get to know the parts very well, you can now begin your curiosity in riding your first bike.There are many different parts of the motorcycle. These parts are considered general because all motorcycles regardless of the brands contain the same parts. I’ll be giving you a short discussion on the important parts.The clutch is a lever which is found in the left-hand grip of your motorcycle. You operate it with the use of your fingers. It is responsible for releasing mechanism and operates for shifting gears more easily. Motorcycles have cylinders but they differ in the number of cylinders. Motorcycles contain between the ranges of one to six cylinders. Most of the cylinders are liquid-cooled to prevent steaming of over-heating for extreme usage. You have the brake which is very important because it slows down the speed of the motorcycles to prevent it from bumping. There are two kinds of brakes. The first is the front brake which is located at the right hand of the motorcycle. It is responsible for stopping the front wheels of your motorcycle. The second is the rear brake which operates to stop the back wheels of the motorcycles. It is operated with the use of our foot. Thought hey both work differently, they work together to prevent serious accidents.The suspension works to keep you comfortable in riding. It provides you with a stable and smooth ride on rough edges and areas. The gas tank is where you place gas which is where your motorcycle is being fed with gasoline. The gear shift which is foot-operated is responsible for shifting gears.The spark plug operates as an igniter to start the engines to cause the effect of combustion. The ignition switch is where you start the motorcycle with your keys. Once it is already witched on, the motorcycle is now ready to be operated. The handlebar is where you place your right and left arms for steering and pivoting. He throttle is found in the right grip of your hand. The throttle increases the speed of the motorcycle. It is being operated by twisting it with your hand. The side mirrors are of great help to the motorcycle rider. It allows them to look behind even in a very fast lane without looking backwards. In order to view your behind very well, these side mirrors should be at the right angle and should always be clear. The hors serves as a warning especially on a busy street where people and vehicles are rushing through.Now that you are introduced with the parts, you can now start your first motorcycle ride and enjoy safe riding!For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.aftermarketmotorcyclepartsnow.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


A Closer Look at Hydrogen Powered Motorcycles by

An innovation has recently triggered the riders’ curiosity and scrutiny. This was all about the launching of hydrogen powered motorcycles. These motorcycles are called ENV (pronounced as envy) or emissions neutral vehicle. The speed is 50 mph or 80 km/h at the range of at least 100 miles or 160 km. Said motorcycles can run for four hours before its fuel-cell needs recharging.Intelligent Energy, maker of ENV, has designed the fuel-cell motorcycle to look simple, clean and user-friendly. Aside from the fact that it is run by a fuel cell called Core, it also produces low sound compared to the rest of the motorcycles. Said Core is detachable from the motorcycle and can be used to power small household properties. The battery pack serves to provide 6 kilowatts of peak load to the motor. With it, motorcycle can tend to become too quiet eliminating the usual excruciating roar. In addition, anti-noise campaigners are welcoming it on the streets. This can open to a whole new experience to all the riders out there. The only drawback though is that said motorcycle can not more or less warn other vehicles or passersby for that matter.In one of his interviews, Harry Bradbury, chief executive of the bike's British manufacturers Intelligent Energy said, "What we are doing is introducing flexibility into it, so that you can have ambient noise that is tolerable - low-level noise sufficient for safety reasons - but which can be switched off when desired." ENV is a pollution-free motorcycle. In fact, according to its designers, even its water-vapor emissions are drinkable because they are so clean. With the state’s endeavor to clean up the air, the use of ENV can be a good alternative. What about the price? The hydrogen fill-up could cost $3. Motorcycle parts are another thing. A prototype of ENV as divulged in London could cost more than $8,300. However, riders are expecting that price will be around $6,000. But expectations may fail. The bike is expected to be open to buyers next year. The expected first’s buyers are probably the nations of China and India where motorcycles are common modes of transportation. However, it is predicted that ENV will not sell much in the United States because Americans view motorcycles as leisure vehicles and not so much for other reasons.This advancement in technology can bring about major advantage in our environment especially to the attainment of clean air. Aside from the fact that it will reduce air and noise pollution in the streets, it can still be a good source of transportation and adventure.

About the Author

For Comments and Questions about the Article you may Log - on to http://www.motorcyclepartstrade.com


Buying a Used Motorcycle Can Be a Good Choice by

Reasons For Buying A Used Motorcycle:Have you checked out the price of a new bike lately? It wasn't that long ago when you didn't have to fork out that much dough for a new car. In fact, many bikers will remember when you didn't have to pay much more than that for a modest house. The prices for houses and cars have shot up over the years. And, so has the prices of motorcycles. The point is, the price of a new bike can take a good-sized bite out of any budget. Buying a used motorcycle is one way to lessen the dent a motorcycle will make in your wallet.There are a number of benefits to buying a used motorcycle. The first is, of course, that you can save a lot of money. As a general rule, motorcycles lose a higher percent of their value when they roll out of the showroom than do automobiles. The possible exception to this is Harley-Davidson. Harleys always seem to retain a high resale value. The second reason is that many motorcycles are not ridden many miles each year, especially in colder climates. So, it is easier to find a good, low mileage bike. Makes such as Moto Guzzi are especially durable and a low mileage model will have many trouble-free miles left in it. A third reason is that if there are any quirks to be worked out of a new model or a particular machine, these will likely have been done by the time the second owner gets the bike.There are a number of sources available when buying a used motorcycle. You can buy a bike from the current owner. The classifieds online and in the newspapers are filled with ads for used bikes. You can also check with a dealership for trade-ins. Bikes at dealerships will often come with a warranty.Tips On Buying A Used MotorcycleSo, how do you make sure you get a good deal? Here are a few tips on buying a used motorcycle. First, check out a used motorcycle price guide. There are several good ones. A good one is the National Auto Dealers Association (N.A.D.A.) price guide. The prices in this monthly guide reflect the average price of motorcycles of similar make, model and condition across the nation. The price guide is issued monthly.Spend a little time reading the reviews of various makes and models. Many of these reviews are posted on the web and they can give you some subjective information on what these particular riders think about the bike.Check the condition of the motorcycle over closely. What is the condition of the drive belt, chain or drive shaft? Are the tires worn or weather checked? Has the bike ever been wrecked? Does it leak oil? Is the muffler or mufflers free of rust? Is the wiring in good shape? Does it start easily and run smoothly?If the deal likes like a go at this point, ask to take the bike for a test drive. While you are at it, if possible, take it to your mechanic and get a second opinion.If your mechanic gives you the OK, get your wallet out and enjoy the ride. Most makes of motorcycles these days are well engineered and high quality machines. Don't make the process of buying a bike a bigger deal than it needs to be. Used motorcycles are generally an excellent value, especially when compared to the price of new bikes. Besides, this is one time when it is fun to shop. So, have some fun buying a used motorcycle.

About the Author

The Motor Bookstore sells repair manuals for cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, farm tractors, and much more.


Choosing the right Tires for your Motorcycles by

All the parts of the motorcycle are essential and the tires are one of them. Basically, it is the most contributing factor that makes the motorcycles move. So if it is important, then tires should be given much attention too. There are different types of wheels for different types of motorcycles. It has different sizes and surfaces too. Some tires have spikes which are used for dirt bike races and other kinds of races. Some tires are smooth which are used in highways and concrete roads.Tires have to be maintained and checked once in a while because its durability depends on how much you use it. New tires are treated differently because it’s just like you being given a different task of work to do. You don’t get used to it easily so you need to adjust. Tires are like those too. They have to keep up or warmed in order to function well. New tires have to be used all over again several times. It’s important to keep your tires a little wasted to prevent it from sliding.Temperature affects the tire pressure and it is a contributing factor to the effects on your tires. What is meant by temperature is that when tires are not used long enough, they become a little bit cold. Time also affects the pressure of your tires. That particularly focuses on the duration of the tires. If you use your motorcycles often, don’t get shocked if you notice them getting thinner. Tire pressure should be observed and checked. If the day’s temperature is high and exceeds the normal, expect your tires to inflate. Though this may not be considered to be very dangerous, still it should be given measures.You should get the best tire suited for your motorcycle’s performance and compatibility. In purchasing tires, it is best if you would have enough knowledge in the details. If not, talk to your trusted dealers and mechanics. Of course they will sell out good products for their standard and company’s name. you should not take for granted the quality of your tires because if you think of budgeting to a low cost, you never notice your tires get spoiled in just a short time which entitles you to buy a new one again at a cheaper price. You can never go wrong in buying tires if you choose the ones with the correct brand and quality. It would be advisable if you pick commercial tires which are commonly being used by professionals and racers. Things you should consider in choosing tires are durability, level of performance, its ability to grip on wet surfaces and quality. The best way to maintain your tires is still by cleaning it up and avoiding it from scary areas.For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.aftermarketmotorcyclepartsnow.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan by

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans.

Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan.

Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan.

Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing too much.

The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not asking the right questions.

The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask:

Is the interest rate fixed or variable? If fixed how long will it be fixed for?

Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future?

What happens if a payment is 30 days late? Does the interest rate increase?

What happens if a payment is 60 days late? Does the interest rate increase?

How long is the term on the motorcycle loan?

If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest? (Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early.)

What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan?

Is full coverage insurance required?

How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan?

Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees?

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

Copyright (c) 2004, by Jay Fran

This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information and an active live link to http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com is published with the article.

A complimentary copy of any newsletter or a link to the site where the article is posted is greatly appreciated.

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Cross Country Motorcycle Riding by

Cross country motorcycle riding is an incredibly exhilarating feeling. The pungent smell of pines tingle your nose as the highway glides past beneath your feet. Trees line either side of the road flash by like a dark picket fence topped with green. Sunlight dances through the treetops drenching the gray-black highway in irregular shapes and patterns. The mountain air is fresh and clean as it pours into your lungs and tugs at your jacket and pants.Much of the hypnotic engine roar trails behind you like a jet vapor trail. Few things can match the joy of the open road while riding a well-tuned bike. The afternoon is made even better with the knowing that the trip has only begun. Days and miles of highway lay yet ahead.If you enjoy the outdoors, motorcycle travel is a great way to see the country. You can soak up the fresh air and sunshine as you drive down the highway. You have a much greater sense of being a part of your surroundings while riding a motorcycle. You feel you can almost reach out and touch the beauty of roadside flowers, trees and wildlife.There is also a special feeling of freedom and exhilaration that comes from racing down the highway with the power of the engine roaring between your legs and the wind in your face. That feeling cannot be matched with any other form of travel.Motorcycle travel is more than just the scenery and the sense of freedom. It is also the people you meet along the way. Bike riders are part of a select community of people. They invariably wave to one another when they meet along the highway. At rest stops and restaurants bikers go out of their way to meet and greet one another. As strangers they recognize they are members of this unique society. They exchange information about the highway ahead, weather conditions, and motorcycle maintenance tips. If a rider breaks down or gets into some travel-related difficulty, another motorcycle rider is almost sure to come along and offer help.There are certain precautions that should be taken when motorcycle touring, however.• First, make sure the bike is serviced and tuned up before departing on a long trip. Breaking down along the highway is a lonely and sickening feeling. This includes checking your tires and making sure they are in good to excellent condition.• Second, weather is always an issue when riding a motorcycle. Make sure you tuck a warm jacket and gloves in a saddle bag or in your trailer. Along with warm clothing you should also make sure you have rain gear. Rain somewhere along the trip is almost guaranteed.• Third, you will want to keep a plan of your route handy. An easy way to do this is to print a computer generated map of your trip and keep it in a plastic document protector or laminated in plastic. You can tape this to the tank or keep in a saddle bag for easy reference during rest stops. Another excellent way to keep on route, especially if you are a gadget hound, is with a GPS.• Fourth, maintain a means of communication. In this day of instant and easy communications there is simply no reason to go on a trip and be cut off from family, friends or help. Many touring bikes can be easily equipped with a C.B. radio. Riders traveling in a group can keep in contact with one another as well as get important information about highway conditions, etc. from truckers and other drivers.• Finally, carry a basic first aid kit in your saddle bags or trailer.Camping is fun at any time.For people who enjoy camping and the outdoors, motorcycle camping adds to the pleasure of riding. A day in the sun followed by sitting around a camp fire at night listening to the frogs and crickets is a great way to travel. Talk about getting away from the routine and the mundane.Motorcycle camping is also a great way to make new acquaintances along your journey. It is hard not to meet new people and share a fire, if not a meal, in a campground. It is a far different environment than the typical chain motel found at Interstate exits. The nice thing about motorcycle camping is that it is so easy. Ultra light, compact camping gear designed for motorcycle riders is readily available, easy to set up and use and inexpensively priced.For motorcycle riders planning a cross country trip or a camping trip while riding your motorcycle, careful planning will help make your trip more enjoyable. It is easy to capitalize on the experience of others. A few tips have been outlined in this article. A good book with tips and information about cross country motorcycle riding will give you a leg up planning your trip and avoiding travel pitfalls. One such book, which is an excellent source of information, is Going The Extra Mile: Insider Tips for Long-Distance Motorcycling and Endurance Rallies.Riding your motorcycle around your neighborhood or on day trips is a great way to enjoy your motorcycle. Taking your motorcycle on a long trip attaches a new dimension to riding your bike ownership. A motorcycle is transportation and it is recreation. A great way to combine transportation with recreation is a cross country motorcycle trip.

About the Author

The Motor Bookstore sells repair manuals and literature for cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, farm tractors, and much more.


Do you need a Part for your Harley Davidson Motorcycle? by

Need a Harley Davidson Part for your ride?Where do you get a good quality Harley Davidson Part? Can I use an aftermarket part?These questions are not easy to answer. It depends a lot on your situation, part you're looking for, and the money you want to spend.The bottom line......... you have to decide.I have a little information here that may be useful to you, so keep reading!An OEM part versus an aftermarket part.An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part are of course the genuine Harley Davidson Part you would find at an authorized Harley dealer.These parts are original in that they have the exact same specifications that came with the original part.These parts however many not have been manufactured by Harley Davidson themselves (at their physical location). Harley may get another company to manufacture these parts to Harley specs, and then they will sell them in the Harley box as OEM.OEM parts are generally more expensive, and almost always recommended by the dealer. (They make their money by selling parts not bikes)The dealer will most likely tell you that OEM parts are of a higher quality. This may or may not be true.An Aftermarket part should perform as well as an OEM but take note. These parts were made by a company other than the original manufacturer.Sometimes after a certain time period the original manufacturer of a part will allow the company that physically manufactured the part to sell it at a reduced price and in their own packaging. The part now becomes an OEM aftermarket part.Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM partSo what does this tell you about that Harley Davidson Part that you need?If you cannot find the quality in an aftermarket part, then search for the OEM provided it is in your price range.There is a lot of competition out there between vendors who want your dollar. An aftermarket Harley part, for your Harley Davidson are generally of good to excellent quality.If you own a Harley, sooner or later you will have to buy parts for it. Buying online has its conveniences and you don't have to go downtown and fight traffic.

About the Author

Keith Nivon is an avid Harley Davidson Motorcycle Enthusiast! His website contains information on all things Harley Davidson. http://www.everything-harley-davidson.com is a great article resource for anyone who shares a passion for Harley Davidson Motorcycles. Have a look at http://www.everything-harley-davidson.com/harley-davidson-part.html for more info on parts.


Extra Accessories for riding your Motorcycle safely by

If you engage too much in your riding your motorcycles, I bet you would also spend too much for your riding accessories. Those who spend many years driving their motorcycles have proven these equipments, gears and accessories to be very helpful. Aside from the common accessories like helmets and foot gear, you will also need a couple of survival outfit and equipments for which some consider as optional but I guess these would be pretty helpful in one way or the other.Some motorcyclists use earplugs. This will save your ears from the excessive noise and disturbance on the streets. Imagine if you are in a heavy traffic stuck for about a couple of hours, think of how much noise you will encounter. All those horns, engine revolutions and car beeps are very painful and throbbing to the ears. With the use of the earplugs, you will get a hassle-free feeling and noise-free traveling. You can bring along food and water containers when exposed on a sunny hot ride. You will definitely need these especially if you engage in long hours of traveling. What is five minutes of stopping to feed your thirst and stomach for a while?You should bring a little face towel for wiping once in a while your sweat. I’m pretty sure you can’t bear to drive with all your perspiration boiling down to your neck. Wiping your sweat will give you ease and comfort in riding.When it comes to safety, you should bring along a first aid kit. You never know when these will be helpful so better be always ready. You can place the kit under the seat of your motorcycle. I’m quite sure you won’t bring a medical box so it will definitely fit in there. You should bring your ID for references in case one commits an accident. ID’s have been very helpful in most accidents. Those who have been involved in accidents are easily identified and their folks are quickly informed and notified. These infos are very helpful and make it easy to track down the person’s personal infos for hospital purposes. Carrying your cell phones is pretty helpful too. If you are going to a place which you are not familiar with, you can easily call a friend for instructions and information. If you are in a hurry for an urgent meeting or appointment, you can inform them immediately if you cannot come on time because you had a flat tire or you were unluckily caught under the heavy traffic.Understanding these tips is very useful so we should not take these simple things for granted. You don’t know when these circumstances will come your way. There’s no better way to deal with it but simply just be prepared. For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


For the best in tires, try a Dunlop Motorcycle Tire. by

Dunlop motorcycle tires have been long known for their high quality and reliability. Worldwide, motorcyclists of all skill levels depend on Dunlop motorcycle tires. In fact, Dunlop tires are used by more motorcyclists than any other brand. This is largely because of Dunlop tire’s devotion to excellence. In order to learn how successful the company is today, it is necessary to look at the company’s history. In 1888, John Boyd Dunlop invented the first practical pneumatic tire. In doing so, he created a whole new industry. Using innovative technology, Dunlop introduced the first use of Kevlar belts in motorcycle tires and produced the first original-equipment radial street tire. Dunlop tire also continues to lead the industry with new ideas, like the 20-inch front tire for off-road use. Dunlop leads the motorcycle tire industry in its continuing research to improve the motorcycle tire. Also, Dunlop is still the only company to make motorcycle tires in the United States. It is important to take care of your Dunlop motorcycle tire. Be sure to properly maintain it by storing it properly and maintain suspension settings in exact compliance with the vehicle owner's manual. If your motorcycle tires are improperly maintained, it could lead to flats, low tire pressure, or other potentially dangerous situations. If you don’t have any experience maintaining your motorcycle tire, be sure to take your motorcycles in to the motorcycle dealer for regular maintenance checks. About the author: Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.my-tire-4me.com/

Frequent Mistakes Made When Looking For Motorcycle Loans by

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans. Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan. Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000. Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership. The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom. Borrowing too much. The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle. Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan. Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term. Not asking the right questions. The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions. Here are some good questions to ask: • What happens if a payment is 30 days late? Does the interest rate increase? • Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees? • Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future? • If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest? (Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early.) • What happens if a payment is 60 days late? Does the interest rate increase? • How long is the term on the motorcycle loan? • Is the interest rate fixed or variable? If fixed how long will it be fixed for? • What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan? • Is full coverage insurance required? • How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan? Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions. About the author: Copyright (c) 2005, by Jay Fran. This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information, and at least one of the below active live links is published with the article. http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com/military-motorcycle-loans.htmlAbout The Author: Jay Fran is a successful author for www.motorcycle-financing-guide.coma website that specializes in finding the best low interest rate online motorcycle loans, including used motorcycle loans.

Getting to know your Motorcycle Parts by

A motorcycle is generally defined as a vehicle with two wheels which is mainly used for the purpose of transporting in land areas. Motorcycles, though small can be compared to automobiles when it comes to speeding. Motorcycles have been enhanced and further improved. Same as mobiles, motorcycle riders need to acquire themselves driver’s license with definite rules for such. Recently, there are different kinds of motorcycle models in relief for the expensive purchase of auto mobiles. Motorcycles compared to automobiles are very handy and requires less fuelling. A motorcycle’s ability can be greatly expanded if upgraded with the best motorcycle parts and brands.If you want to enormously indulge in your motorcycle interests, you definitely need to know the different motorcycle parts. A simple motorcycle generally includes an engine for the gasoline with two steel wheels attached on it. A motorcycle contains a tank which is being located at the top of the engine. The fork is mainly used for pivoting where the wheels and the axle are connected. Handlebars play the role of pivoting the front wheels of the motorcycles which is next to the shock absorber and power which is used for ignition.The engine is considered to be the heart of the motorcycle because it is where everything runs and starts. It is responsible for starting or igniting the motorcycles within a cylinder with the use of fuel or gasoline. The engine is responsible for moving and giving energy to the piston to perform a rotary motion which turns the wheel. The unit of measure of the engine’s size is expressed in cubic centimeters which stand for the volume of cylinders. Motorcycles have transmission which is responsible for controlling the speed, gears, clutches and shifts. The wheels on your motorcycles have brakes which are activated on the hand grip and foot pedal. The suspension is responsible for maintaining the smooth run of the motorcycle in bumpy rough road areas with the help of the shock absorbers. These shock absorbers are very important for dirt bikes because it helps to avoid the engines from being extremely shaken when flying and coursing through the race tracks.Motorcycles have seats same as automobiles but they do not look alike evenly. The seats have cushion for the convenience of the riders and the back riders too. Some motorcycles have small pockets behind the seats for small storages and carry-on luggage. These are the main parts that a typical motorcycle contains. These parts work together for the whole transmission and performance of motorcycles. If you are dissatisfied with your bike’s performance, upgrading your motorcycle parts would be a great deal. But make sure it matches the configuration of your motorcycles to perform greatly. For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


Helpful Tips on how to buy Motorcycles by

Buying motorcycles isn’t just about buying because you need to know some helpful tips ant hints to get the best deals. It would even be very helpful if you consult an expert so you will never have to go wrong or think that your money has been put to waste. In purchasing a used motorcycle, every part of it needs to be checked for durability. All goes well for well-maintained parts. Whether you are and expert or novice, you can easily identify it even by just looking at it. If the parts look grumpy and all worn-out, that won’t pretty serve you much for long. So why invest in buying a cheap one when it entitles you to overspend when it crashes.In buying motorcycles, it would be better if you know the owner you are buying from. At least you will have an idea on how the motorcycle has been treated if the owner took extra efforts in maintaining the motorcycle’s performance. You can also estimate as to whether the motorcycle you are purchasing will still have a longer life or spend your time keeping it up. Some experts say that purchasing second-hand or used motorcycles are better than new ones because the motorcycle has performed several times. Used motorcycles don’t need warming ups and series of road tests. There are other options in buying motorcycles. You can buy a motorcycle from an auction in companies and the Internet usually. When motorcycles are being sold, they deal it through auctions with great deals too. But purchasing with this type is first-come first-serve basis.If you really are in desperate need to purchase a motorcycle very soon, you can easily find one in the newspapers in the ads page. Internet ads and motorcycle sites offer their selling online. They offer product information, listings, pricing and specification. For assurance and warranties, you can buy your motorcycle from an authorized dealer. You can have great deals and discounts depending upon your contract. They also offer selling their products for easy installment for a given period of time. That sure is painless if you don’t have enough money and have other priorities. The simplest and most common way to purchase a motorcycle is through your friends. You will usually hear from them talking about selling motorcycles. If you purchase from a friend, prices can get lower and you can talk about the motorcycle’s condition and performance comfortably. You can also ask for advices because they pretty know well and they are used to operating the motorcycles themselves.No matter how you want to purchase a motorcycle, don’t always be in a hurry to buy one unless you are sure especially if you are a beginner. Of course you won’t want your money to be put waste.For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


How to Save Money on Motorcycle Repair by

Getting the most out of your bike’s repair job is good. But it would be better if you yourself are able to make the repair instead of having others service it. Doing your motorcycle’s maintenance is important for you to realize its fullest potentials.

Bike enthusiasts may not be familiar with the structure of their vehicles and could be missing out on the possibilities of maximizing the use of their motorcycles. Knowing your “horse” is very important if you want to understand it and give it the attention it needs.

The beauty of motorcycles is that is has a relatively open design meaning it is easy to be familiar with the inner workings of the bike. And this fact is going to save you money if you just know what to do and when to do it.

Personal maintenance of your bike is both a learning and rewarding experience. Of course you may opt to have others check-up your bike but nothing beats the satisfaction of having done a good job on your beloved motorcycle. It is fun and very much a worthwhile activity.

If you choose to be your bike’s personal physician, a good number of repair manuals are available that are filled with important information about motorcycles. It will provide you with the needed know-how regarding troubleshooting and maintenance. It also presents a detailed discussion of the engine, clutch, transmission, electrical system, wheels and final drive. The book will also give you tips on how to improve the bike's performance.

The basics of motorcycle repair are outlined in manuals like this making it easier for you to tinker with your bike. Making the necessary repair will be very easy with these manuals as they present you with a clear picture of what it takes to bring your bike back to life. There even also are pictures to further familiarize you with what part of your bike the manual is referring to. With this manual in hand, you need not just limit yourself to making minor repairs but you can also rebuild your engine if you wish so.

Even if you choose to keep your hands clean, it still would be good to understand how you bike works and what it needs to run smoothly. Troubleshooting is easier since you’d know beforehand what is wrong and can relay this information to the repairman. You can give him additional information that is sure to help in making the needed repair for your bike.

About The Author

Ariel Velasco goes by the author alias of Paul Hood. This author is into books and writing. Reading is an essential part of his life and this has lent a considerable influence in his writing. Well traveled and would always want to travel more. He loves learning more about people and their ways. Took up a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology to further this fascination and had a fulfilling educational experience having been exposed to a wide spectrum of people. Always ready for new opportunities to learn and have a great deal of interest in different fields of expertise.

For additional legal information and inquiries about the article log on to http://www.attorneyservicesetc.com

carmelo@attorneyservicesetc.com


Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan by

Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan Jay Fran

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans.

Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan.

Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan.

Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing too much.

The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not asking the right questions.

The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask: Is the interest rate fixed or variable If fixed how long will it be fixed for Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future What happens if a payment is 30 days late Does the interest rate increase What happens if a payment is 60 days late Does the interest rate increase How long is the term on the motorcycle loan If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early. What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan Is full coverage insurance required How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

Copyright c 2004, by Jay Fran

This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, authors information and an active live link to http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com is published with the article.

A complimentary copy of any newsletter or a link to the site where the article is posted is greatly appreciated.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! by

Welcome To The World Of "Upside Down" Motorcycle Loans! Jay Fran

With the depreciation on motorcycles being so enormous after they are driven off the showroom floor, the potential for a buyer owing more on their motorcycle loan than the bike is worth it quite high. Owing more on your bike than it is worth is often referred to as the world of “up side Down#8221;.

Many people finding themselves in this situation discover that financial lessons are sometimes the hardest and most expensive to learn. Motorcycle loans of more than 48 months especially without a down payment put you in the position of owing more than the value of the bike.

Let’s take a look at this phenomenon.

First, the interest calculation your lender uses can make a big difference in your situation, especially in the first 18 months. There are two primary interest calculations, pre-computed combined with rule of 78 and simple interest.

Pre-computed interest combined with Rule of 78, is typically the worst situation for a buyer because most of the interest is paid in the first 24 months. Therefore, in the first 24 months little of the monthly payment has gone towards paying down principal. If a buyer wishes to sell or trade in the motorcycle within this timeframe they will likely find themselves owing more than the bike is worth. Statistics show that the average owner trades in every 18-24 months.

Simple interest on the other hand, is much more favorable for buyers since interest accrues on the balance of the loan. However, buyers that extend their loans for greater than 48 months can still find themselves up side down with simple interest. This is especially true if a down payment is not made. The reason this occurs is that the motorcycle depreciates faster than the principal is paid; leaving the balance owed to the lender to be more than the bike can be sold for.

A common view that many people have is that they will just surrender their motorcycle to the lender if they are caught in an “up side Down#8221; position. If you are considering this option don’t! Your worries do not just end after your bike is surrendered or repossessed; in fact they are just beginning. The lender will sell your bike at an auction for much less than it is worth. You will still owe the difference between the amount you owed on your loan and the amount the motorcycle sold for at auction. So if you owe $5000 and the bike sells for $1500, you still are responsible for owing the lender $3500. To make it worse lenders may tack on hefty auction fees which you will owe as well. So the net result is that you are now responsible for making monthly payments on a bike you can no longer ride.

So what steps can you take to prevent from being caught “up side Down#8221;

1. Find a lender that uses simple interest. Avoid lenders that use pre-computed / Rule of 78 interest calculations.

2. Always try to put money down on your purchase.

3. Try to avoid motorcycle loans that extend past 36 months.

About The Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher for a website that specializes in Motorcycle Loans: Poor Credit Approvals Available. A comprehensive resource on simple interest motorcycle financing, poor credit, new, used and bad credit motorcycle loans.

http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com/


Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket by

Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket Daniel Levy

How To Tell When to Buy an OEM or an Aftermarket Part for Your Motorcycle

This is always a difficult one to answer when shopping for motorcycle parts and I firmly believe that each one of us must decide whats best for our bikes AFTER carefully evaluating each of the possibilities.

For me

Well... it really depends on what I am looking for - just replacement or improvement - , the availability of the part, my budget and other things. Sometimes I buy OEM, others aftermarket motorcycle parts.

Keep reading. You will find some views that will hopefully help you decide the next time you shop for motorcycle parts.

What a heck are OEM parts

OEM parts stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts which not necessarily mean the OM Original Manufacturer actually produced them. You know, many motorcycle and automobile manufacturers dont manufacture each of the parts used in their vehicles. They frequently have the parts designed and manufactured by outside independent companies and then, install them in their machines or put them in their own boxes to be sold as OEM parts!

Good to know when buying OEM Motorcycle Parts:

When you buy OEM Motorcycle Parts you are buying the exact same original part the manufacturer used to build your motorcycle, that means:

Same performance as the part installed in your motorcycle right now. The part wont be better nor worse than the original part you want to replace.

Normally OEM parts a more in some cases MUCH more expensive than aftermarket parts.

Motorcycle and car agencies clerks will normally tell you OEM Parts are higher quality and the best option for replacements. Is this true Well sometimes it is, sometimes its not.

Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part! :-

BE CAREFUL if your bike is still in its guarantee period make sure you use only OEM parts and have them installed by authorized mechanics. If you dont do so, you will probably void the guarantee.

What about Aftermarket parts

Aftermarket parts should perform as well as OEM parts but are produced by companies other than the original manufacturers.

Things to know when buying Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts:

MAKE SURE YOUR GUARANTEE PERIOD IS OVER. In many cases, you can VOID your guarantee if you have an aftermarket part installed by an unauthorized mechanic in your machine. I know I said it before, but its worth repeating; I happened to me! :-

Equivalent aftermarket Suzuki motorcycle parts are normally cheaper than OEM parts. Sometimes up to 70% cheaper!

Aftermarket parts can have lower,the same or higher quality than the original.

When buying aftermarket parts make sure you are getting AT LEAST the same quality as the OEM part. If possible try to get some reviews about brands and performance. You can do it in the Internet, with your favorite mechanic or with fellow riders.

If you are looking for high performance parts and devices, you know the kind: carbon fiber, titanium, aerospace aluminum parts and gizmos, well you will probably find them as aftermarket motorcycle parts.

OEM or aftermarket motorcycle parts, sooner or later you will be shopping for them...

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... by



Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling You will need the motorcycle values... Daniel Levy

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!

There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:

1.- In the books

2.- In the market

THE BOOKS

In the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.

Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithful information about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.

The National Automobile Dealers Association N.A.D.A. is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.

The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book".

THE MARKET

Another way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.

RECOMMENDATION

Prices may vary sometimes a lot depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.

Enjoy the Ride!

Daniel Levy

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/. If you need motorcycle parts, check this page: http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html.


Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway by

Boots, Motorcycle Boots, Work Boots And Even Dress Boots! Who Wears Them Anyway Mike Yeager

Wearing boots today is even more popular than ever. It used to be that boots were only for stomping through the mud with. Now however, boots can be as fashionable and stylish as you’d like. From motorcycle boots to cowboy boots and western boots, they’re all gaining in popularity. If you want to be on the edge of rugged fashion, get yourself some boots.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of boots are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

Both men and women are wearing boots to all occasions that would have been unthinkable a short while ago. If you’re considering adding boots to your shoes collection or if you’re looking at good solid work boots you can find anything you want on the internet.

Choose from only the best suppliers of boots. It doesn’t matter if its wolverine boots or fashionable thigh boots, you can find any style your looking for.

About The Author

Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.a1-shoes-4u.com/ mjy610@hotmail.com


A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. by

A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro. Daniel Levy

A beautiful ride across cities and places named World Heritage by the Unesco, through an splendid protected natural area and ending in a surrealistic garden by artist Sir Edward James. Just keep reading...

The ride starts in Queretaro City at 5,970 ft above sea level.

Queretaro is a colonial city founded more than 500 years ago and named World Heritage by the Unesco in 1996 . Its located in the center of the country two hours North Mexico City. Nowadays it has become one of the most dynamic cities in Mexico due to the surrounding industrial parks where many international companies are located.

The first stop is just 45 minutes away: "La Peña de Bernal" The "Rock of Bernal". We are talking about the third biggest rock in the world and the highest in Mexico. At its feet a quaint little town were you can stop for a soda, lunch or spend the night. You can also find nice little souvenirs. Whatever you decide to do, this place is a must.

If you like rock climbing, you are in the right place too!

The road to Bernal doesnt present any major challenge, most of the road is straight with just a few extended curves... but just after passing Bernal it starts to get fun!

Surrounded by an arid landscape due the high content of lime in the soil, you start with a very interesting section of twisties, one after another, up and down, a technical road between the mountains for about 30 miles. The landscape changes a bit as you advance and a few miles later you are in the middle of a semidesert.

After this twisty section you then continue on a straight part of the road. A few more miles down the route and you find a military checkpoint... Dont worry about it, they are normally courteous people just looking for arm and drug smugglers.

After the control point the curves and the fun start again. As you get to "Peña Blanca" "White Rock" in English - by the way if you need gas, this is the place to stop and fill it up - you start climbing the mountains twist after twist.

I love this part: most of the ride you can clearly see three or four turns in front of you, and as it is a low traffic road, you can enjoy yourself taking the best lines always keeping it in the safe side if you know what I mean!.

After climbing for a while you notice how things start to change and suddenly what were rocks, sand and cactus are now pine trees. Its beautiful.. You feel the change of temperature and then you reach "La Puerta del Cielo" The Door of Heavens" the highest point in this ride.

We are now at about 9200 feet above sea level... The turns continue but now you are going downhill. Remember to adjust your riding to that fact. Unfortunately I have seen more than one forgetting about it that and paying the consequences.

As you start descending you ride through a small town called Pinal the Amoles... descend, turn turn, descend turn turn, descend turn turn... I love it! About 10 miles after Pinal de Amoles, the weather starts to change again and gets warmer. The vegetation also suffers a sudden transformation.

You keep devouring the road and you cannot help but getting marveled of the landscape around you... Just remember to keep your eyes on the road! Turn, turn... You are in the middle of the Sierra Gorda protected area and home of multiple plants and animals.

You continue descending till you reach Jalpan de Serra the most important town in the Sierra Gorda and place where Father Junipero Serra built one of his most important missions in the area before heading north to build the Missions in California. These missions were also named World Heritage by the Unesco in 2003.

In Jalpan you can find a couple of simple but nice hotels and some restaurants. Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a few more miles west to a place called Conca where you ll find a hotel with Spa to relax from the days ride and get ready for the rest of the trip.

After Jalpan our next stop and final destination is Xilitla, so you head north-east till you reach the state of San Luis Potosi.

A few miles after crossing the state limits in the middle of the mountains, at about 3,300 ft asl, in a rain forest of incredible vegetation you get to Xilitla.

This town was chosen by Sir Edward James, a surrealistic British artist - also noble and rich -, to spend the rest of his life. It is in this place he built a huge garden, a private zoo and a meditation place in the middle of the jungle. Its very difficult to describe it with words... Maybe the photos in this site can help: http://www.junglegossip.com/.

In Xilitla you can stay in the Castillo "The Castle" the house of former Sir Edward James right hand and friend: Plutarco Gastelum. This exclusive Bed and Breakfast is unique in its kind and you can see, feel and breath the influence of the artist everywhere.

Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a bit more to the north and stay in Ciudad Valles an important city of San Luis Potosi state where you will find all kind of hotels and restaurants, night life etc.

My recommendation... stay at the Castillo, forget about your ride and enjoy for a whole day this Mexican Shangri La.

After spending the whole day in Xilitla prepare for a long ride back to Queretaro. For this one I like to leave early in the morning and keep, if possible, a fast pace. Turn, turn...

We are talking about many miles and literally hundreds of twisties... Once my wife counted them... She stopped when she was at the 500th and we hadnt arrived back to Queretaro City yet!

Its so fun that the time flies and suddenly you realize its all over and you would like to turn around and do it again...

You know the feeling right

Another possibility from Xilitla is to head to the famous Huasteca Potosina a zone of exuberant rivers, waterfalls and springs... But that area deserves a whole article by itself. I will be writing it in the future.

If you liked the trip I described and want more information about great motorcycle rides in Mexico and/or to contact me for any other issue please visit my site at www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

P.S. Below you will find a few facts about this ride.

Facts about the ride:

Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced Recommended time to enjoy the trip: 3-4 days Total length of the ride: about 600 miles Checkpoints: Queretaro-Bernal Bernal-Military Checkpoint Military Checkpoint-Pinal de Amoles Pinal de Amoles-Jalpan de Serra Jalpan de Serra-Xilitla

Weather: normally clear and dry with the exception of the rainy season from July to September where you can find some heavy rain.

Recommended Map: Guia Roji Mexico Tourist Road Atlas. You can find it at Amazon.

About The Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.


A beginner’s guide to Motorcycle Parts by

Once you hop in a motorcycle and realize that you have deep interest in riding it, I’m definitely sure you’ll have lots of questions in your mind. You’ll probably ask the basic questions on how to start and drive it with the use of gears. These are common questions of beginners who are willing to indulge on the road to driving motorcycles. Knowing the parts of your motorcycles and how they work together to keep your motorcycles running can be quite interesting too.In order for you to learn riding and start riding, you must first learn the basics of the motorcycle parts and how they function. If you get to know the parts very well, you can now begin your curiosity in riding your first bike.There are many different parts of the motorcycle. These parts are considered general because all motorcycles regardless of the brands contain the same parts. I’ll be giving you a short discussion on the important parts.The clutch is a lever which is found in the left-hand grip of your motorcycle. You operate it with the use of your fingers. It is responsible for releasing mechanism and operates for shifting gears more easily. Motorcycles have cylinders but they differ in the number of cylinders. Motorcycles contain between the ranges of one to six cylinders. Most of the cylinders are liquid-cooled to prevent steaming of over-heating for extreme usage. You have the brake which is very important because it slows down the speed of the motorcycles to prevent it from bumping. There are two kinds of brakes. The first is the front brake which is located at the right hand of the motorcycle. It is responsible for stopping the front wheels of your motorcycle. The second is the rear brake which operates to stop the back wheels of the motorcycles. It is operated with the use of our foot. Thought hey both work differently, they work together to prevent serious accidents.The suspension works to keep you comfortable in riding. It provides you with a stable and smooth ride on rough edges and areas. The gas tank is where you place gas which is where your motorcycle is being fed with gasoline. The gear shift which is foot-operated is responsible for shifting gears.The spark plug operates as an igniter to start the engines to cause the effect of combustion. The ignition switch is where you start the motorcycle with your keys. Once it is already witched on, the motorcycle is now ready to be operated. The handlebar is where you place your right and left arms for steering and pivoting. He throttle is found in the right grip of your hand. The throttle increases the speed of the motorcycle. It is being operated by twisting it with your hand. The side mirrors are of great help to the motorcycle rider. It allows them to look behind even in a very fast lane without looking backwards. In order to view your behind very well, these side mirrors should be at the right angle and should always be clear. The hors serves as a warning especially on a busy street where people and vehicles are rushing through.Now that you are introduced with the parts, you can now start your first motorcycle ride and enjoy safe riding!For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.aftermarketmotorcyclepartsnow.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


A Closer Look at Hydrogen Powered Motorcycles by

An innovation has recently triggered the riders’ curiosity and scrutiny. This was all about the launching of hydrogen powered motorcycles. These motorcycles are called ENV (pronounced as envy) or emissions neutral vehicle. The speed is 50 mph or 80 km/h at the range of at least 100 miles or 160 km. Said motorcycles can run for four hours before its fuel-cell needs recharging.Intelligent Energy, maker of ENV, has designed the fuel-cell motorcycle to look simple, clean and user-friendly. Aside from the fact that it is run by a fuel cell called Core, it also produces low sound compared to the rest of the motorcycles. Said Core is detachable from the motorcycle and can be used to power small household properties. The battery pack serves to provide 6 kilowatts of peak load to the motor. With it, motorcycle can tend to become too quiet eliminating the usual excruciating roar. In addition, anti-noise campaigners are welcoming it on the streets. This can open to a whole new experience to all the riders out there. The only drawback though is that said motorcycle can not more or less warn other vehicles or passersby for that matter.In one of his interviews, Harry Bradbury, chief executive of the bike's British manufacturers Intelligent Energy said, "What we are doing is introducing flexibility into it, so that you can have ambient noise that is tolerable - low-level noise sufficient for safety reasons - but which can be switched off when desired." ENV is a pollution-free motorcycle. In fact, according to its designers, even its water-vapor emissions are drinkable because they are so clean. With the state’s endeavor to clean up the air, the use of ENV can be a good alternative. What about the price? The hydrogen fill-up could cost $3. Motorcycle parts are another thing. A prototype of ENV as divulged in London could cost more than $8,300. However, riders are expecting that price will be around $6,000. But expectations may fail. The bike is expected to be open to buyers next year. The expected first’s buyers are probably the nations of China and India where motorcycles are common modes of transportation. However, it is predicted that ENV will not sell much in the United States because Americans view motorcycles as leisure vehicles and not so much for other reasons.This advancement in technology can bring about major advantage in our environment especially to the attainment of clean air. Aside from the fact that it will reduce air and noise pollution in the streets, it can still be a good source of transportation and adventure.

About the Author

For Comments and Questions about the Article you may Log - on to http://www.motorcyclepartstrade.com


Buying a Used Motorcycle Can Be a Good Choice by

Reasons For Buying A Used Motorcycle:Have you checked out the price of a new bike lately? It wasn't that long ago when you didn't have to fork out that much dough for a new car. In fact, many bikers will remember when you didn't have to pay much more than that for a modest house. The prices for houses and cars have shot up over the years. And, so has the prices of motorcycles. The point is, the price of a new bike can take a good-sized bite out of any budget. Buying a used motorcycle is one way to lessen the dent a motorcycle will make in your wallet.There are a number of benefits to buying a used motorcycle. The first is, of course, that you can save a lot of money. As a general rule, motorcycles lose a higher percent of their value when they roll out of the showroom than do automobiles. The possible exception to this is Harley-Davidson. Harleys always seem to retain a high resale value. The second reason is that many motorcycles are not ridden many miles each year, especially in colder climates. So, it is easier to find a good, low mileage bike. Makes such as Moto Guzzi are especially durable and a low mileage model will have many trouble-free miles left in it. A third reason is that if there are any quirks to be worked out of a new model or a particular machine, these will likely have been done by the time the second owner gets the bike.There are a number of sources available when buying a used motorcycle. You can buy a bike from the current owner. The classifieds online and in the newspapers are filled with ads for used bikes. You can also check with a dealership for trade-ins. Bikes at dealerships will often come with a warranty.Tips On Buying A Used MotorcycleSo, how do you make sure you get a good deal? Here are a few tips on buying a used motorcycle. First, check out a used motorcycle price guide. There are several good ones. A good one is the National Auto Dealers Association (N.A.D.A.) price guide. The prices in this monthly guide reflect the average price of motorcycles of similar make, model and condition across the nation. The price guide is issued monthly.Spend a little time reading the reviews of various makes and models. Many of these reviews are posted on the web and they can give you some subjective information on what these particular riders think about the bike.Check the condition of the motorcycle over closely. What is the condition of the drive belt, chain or drive shaft? Are the tires worn or weather checked? Has the bike ever been wrecked? Does it leak oil? Is the muffler or mufflers free of rust? Is the wiring in good shape? Does it start easily and run smoothly?If the deal likes like a go at this point, ask to take the bike for a test drive. While you are at it, if possible, take it to your mechanic and get a second opinion.If your mechanic gives you the OK, get your wallet out and enjoy the ride. Most makes of motorcycles these days are well engineered and high quality machines. Don't make the process of buying a bike a bigger deal than it needs to be. Used motorcycles are generally an excellent value, especially when compared to the price of new bikes. Besides, this is one time when it is fun to shop. So, have some fun buying a used motorcycle.

About the Author

The Motor Bookstore sells repair manuals for cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, farm tractors, and much more.


Choosing the right Tires for your Motorcycles by

All the parts of the motorcycle are essential and the tires are one of them. Basically, it is the most contributing factor that makes the motorcycles move. So if it is important, then tires should be given much attention too. There are different types of wheels for different types of motorcycles. It has different sizes and surfaces too. Some tires have spikes which are used for dirt bike races and other kinds of races. Some tires are smooth which are used in highways and concrete roads.Tires have to be maintained and checked once in a while because its durability depends on how much you use it. New tires are treated differently because it’s just like you being given a different task of work to do. You don’t get used to it easily so you need to adjust. Tires are like those too. They have to keep up or warmed in order to function well. New tires have to be used all over again several times. It’s important to keep your tires a little wasted to prevent it from sliding.Temperature affects the tire pressure and it is a contributing factor to the effects on your tires. What is meant by temperature is that when tires are not used long enough, they become a little bit cold. Time also affects the pressure of your tires. That particularly focuses on the duration of the tires. If you use your motorcycles often, don’t get shocked if you notice them getting thinner. Tire pressure should be observed and checked. If the day’s temperature is high and exceeds the normal, expect your tires to inflate. Though this may not be considered to be very dangerous, still it should be given measures.You should get the best tire suited for your motorcycle’s performance and compatibility. In purchasing tires, it is best if you would have enough knowledge in the details. If not, talk to your trusted dealers and mechanics. Of course they will sell out good products for their standard and company’s name. you should not take for granted the quality of your tires because if you think of budgeting to a low cost, you never notice your tires get spoiled in just a short time which entitles you to buy a new one again at a cheaper price. You can never go wrong in buying tires if you choose the ones with the correct brand and quality. It would be advisable if you pick commercial tires which are commonly being used by professionals and racers. Things you should consider in choosing tires are durability, level of performance, its ability to grip on wet surfaces and quality. The best way to maintain your tires is still by cleaning it up and avoiding it from scary areas.For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.aftermarketmotorcyclepartsnow.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


Common Mistakes Motorcycle Buyers Make When Looking For A Motorcycle Loan by

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans.

Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan.

Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000.

Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership.

The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom.

Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan.

Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term.

Borrowing too much.

The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle.

Not asking the right questions.

The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions.

Here are some good questions to ask:

Is the interest rate fixed or variable? If fixed how long will it be fixed for?

Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future?

What happens if a payment is 30 days late? Does the interest rate increase?

What happens if a payment is 60 days late? Does the interest rate increase?

How long is the term on the motorcycle loan?

If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest? (Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early.)

What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan?

Is full coverage insurance required?

How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan?

Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees?

Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions.

Copyright (c) 2004, by Jay Fran

This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information and an active live link to http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com is published with the article.

A complimentary copy of any newsletter or a link to the site where the article is posted is greatly appreciated.

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Cross Country Motorcycle Riding by

Cross country motorcycle riding is an incredibly exhilarating feeling. The pungent smell of pines tingle your nose as the highway glides past beneath your feet. Trees line either side of the road flash by like a dark picket fence topped with green. Sunlight dances through the treetops drenching the gray-black highway in irregular shapes and patterns. The mountain air is fresh and clean as it pours into your lungs and tugs at your jacket and pants.Much of the hypnotic engine roar trails behind you like a jet vapor trail. Few things can match the joy of the open road while riding a well-tuned bike. The afternoon is made even better with the knowing that the trip has only begun. Days and miles of highway lay yet ahead.If you enjoy the outdoors, motorcycle travel is a great way to see the country. You can soak up the fresh air and sunshine as you drive down the highway. You have a much greater sense of being a part of your surroundings while riding a motorcycle. You feel you can almost reach out and touch the beauty of roadside flowers, trees and wildlife.There is also a special feeling of freedom and exhilaration that comes from racing down the highway with the power of the engine roaring between your legs and the wind in your face. That feeling cannot be matched with any other form of travel.Motorcycle travel is more than just the scenery and the sense of freedom. It is also the people you meet along the way. Bike riders are part of a select community of people. They invariably wave to one another when they meet along the highway. At rest stops and restaurants bikers go out of their way to meet and greet one another. As strangers they recognize they are members of this unique society. They exchange information about the highway ahead, weather conditions, and motorcycle maintenance tips. If a rider breaks down or gets into some travel-related difficulty, another motorcycle rider is almost sure to come along and offer help.There are certain precautions that should be taken when motorcycle touring, however.• First, make sure the bike is serviced and tuned up before departing on a long trip. Breaking down along the highway is a lonely and sickening feeling. This includes checking your tires and making sure they are in good to excellent condition.• Second, weather is always an issue when riding a motorcycle. Make sure you tuck a warm jacket and gloves in a saddle bag or in your trailer. Along with warm clothing you should also make sure you have rain gear. Rain somewhere along the trip is almost guaranteed.• Third, you will want to keep a plan of your route handy. An easy way to do this is to print a computer generated map of your trip and keep it in a plastic document protector or laminated in plastic. You can tape this to the tank or keep in a saddle bag for easy reference during rest stops. Another excellent way to keep on route, especially if you are a gadget hound, is with a GPS.• Fourth, maintain a means of communication. In this day of instant and easy communications there is simply no reason to go on a trip and be cut off from family, friends or help. Many touring bikes can be easily equipped with a C.B. radio. Riders traveling in a group can keep in contact with one another as well as get important information about highway conditions, etc. from truckers and other drivers.• Finally, carry a basic first aid kit in your saddle bags or trailer.Camping is fun at any time.For people who enjoy camping and the outdoors, motorcycle camping adds to the pleasure of riding. A day in the sun followed by sitting around a camp fire at night listening to the frogs and crickets is a great way to travel. Talk about getting away from the routine and the mundane.Motorcycle camping is also a great way to make new acquaintances along your journey. It is hard not to meet new people and share a fire, if not a meal, in a campground. It is a far different environment than the typical chain motel found at Interstate exits. The nice thing about motorcycle camping is that it is so easy. Ultra light, compact camping gear designed for motorcycle riders is readily available, easy to set up and use and inexpensively priced.For motorcycle riders planning a cross country trip or a camping trip while riding your motorcycle, careful planning will help make your trip more enjoyable. It is easy to capitalize on the experience of others. A few tips have been outlined in this article. A good book with tips and information about cross country motorcycle riding will give you a leg up planning your trip and avoiding travel pitfalls. One such book, which is an excellent source of information, is Going The Extra Mile: Insider Tips for Long-Distance Motorcycling and Endurance Rallies.Riding your motorcycle around your neighborhood or on day trips is a great way to enjoy your motorcycle. Taking your motorcycle on a long trip attaches a new dimension to riding your bike ownership. A motorcycle is transportation and it is recreation. A great way to combine transportation with recreation is a cross country motorcycle trip.

About the Author

The Motor Bookstore sells repair manuals and literature for cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, farm tractors, and much more.


Do you need a Part for your Harley Davidson Motorcycle? by

Need a Harley Davidson Part for your ride?Where do you get a good quality Harley Davidson Part? Can I use an aftermarket part?These questions are not easy to answer. It depends a lot on your situation, part you're looking for, and the money you want to spend.The bottom line......... you have to decide.I have a little information here that may be useful to you, so keep reading!An OEM part versus an aftermarket part.An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part are of course the genuine Harley Davidson Part you would find at an authorized Harley dealer.These parts are original in that they have the exact same specifications that came with the original part.These parts however many not have been manufactured by Harley Davidson themselves (at their physical location). Harley may get another company to manufacture these parts to Harley specs, and then they will sell them in the Harley box as OEM.OEM parts are generally more expensive, and almost always recommended by the dealer. (They make their money by selling parts not bikes)The dealer will most likely tell you that OEM parts are of a higher quality. This may or may not be true.An Aftermarket part should perform as well as an OEM but take note. These parts were made by a company other than the original manufacturer.Sometimes after a certain time period the original manufacturer of a part will allow the company that physically manufactured the part to sell it at a reduced price and in their own packaging. The part now becomes an OEM aftermarket part.Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM partSo what does this tell you about that Harley Davidson Part that you need?If you cannot find the quality in an aftermarket part, then search for the OEM provided it is in your price range.There is a lot of competition out there between vendors who want your dollar. An aftermarket Harley part, for your Harley Davidson are generally of good to excellent quality.If you own a Harley, sooner or later you will have to buy parts for it. Buying online has its conveniences and you don't have to go downtown and fight traffic.

About the Author

Keith Nivon is an avid Harley Davidson Motorcycle Enthusiast! His website contains information on all things Harley Davidson. http://www.everything-harley-davidson.com is a great article resource for anyone who shares a passion for Harley Davidson Motorcycles. Have a look at http://www.everything-harley-davidson.com/harley-davidson-part.html for more info on parts.


Extra Accessories for riding your Motorcycle safely by

If you engage too much in your riding your motorcycles, I bet you would also spend too much for your riding accessories. Those who spend many years driving their motorcycles have proven these equipments, gears and accessories to be very helpful. Aside from the common accessories like helmets and foot gear, you will also need a couple of survival outfit and equipments for which some consider as optional but I guess these would be pretty helpful in one way or the other.Some motorcyclists use earplugs. This will save your ears from the excessive noise and disturbance on the streets. Imagine if you are in a heavy traffic stuck for about a couple of hours, think of how much noise you will encounter. All those horns, engine revolutions and car beeps are very painful and throbbing to the ears. With the use of the earplugs, you will get a hassle-free feeling and noise-free traveling. You can bring along food and water containers when exposed on a sunny hot ride. You will definitely need these especially if you engage in long hours of traveling. What is five minutes of stopping to feed your thirst and stomach for a while?You should bring a little face towel for wiping once in a while your sweat. I’m pretty sure you can’t bear to drive with all your perspiration boiling down to your neck. Wiping your sweat will give you ease and comfort in riding.When it comes to safety, you should bring along a first aid kit. You never know when these will be helpful so better be always ready. You can place the kit under the seat of your motorcycle. I’m quite sure you won’t bring a medical box so it will definitely fit in there. You should bring your ID for references in case one commits an accident. ID’s have been very helpful in most accidents. Those who have been involved in accidents are easily identified and their folks are quickly informed and notified. These infos are very helpful and make it easy to track down the person’s personal infos for hospital purposes. Carrying your cell phones is pretty helpful too. If you are going to a place which you are not familiar with, you can easily call a friend for instructions and information. If you are in a hurry for an urgent meeting or appointment, you can inform them immediately if you cannot come on time because you had a flat tire or you were unluckily caught under the heavy traffic.Understanding these tips is very useful so we should not take these simple things for granted. You don’t know when these circumstances will come your way. There’s no better way to deal with it but simply just be prepared. For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


For the best in tires, try a Dunlop Motorcycle Tire. by

Dunlop motorcycle tires have been long known for their high quality and reliability. Worldwide, motorcyclists of all skill levels depend on Dunlop motorcycle tires. In fact, Dunlop tires are used by more motorcyclists than any other brand. This is largely because of Dunlop tire’s devotion to excellence. In order to learn how successful the company is today, it is necessary to look at the company’s history. In 1888, John Boyd Dunlop invented the first practical pneumatic tire. In doing so, he created a whole new industry. Using innovative technology, Dunlop introduced the first use of Kevlar belts in motorcycle tires and produced the first original-equipment radial street tire. Dunlop tire also continues to lead the industry with new ideas, like the 20-inch front tire for off-road use. Dunlop leads the motorcycle tire industry in its continuing research to improve the motorcycle tire. Also, Dunlop is still the only company to make motorcycle tires in the United States. It is important to take care of your Dunlop motorcycle tire. Be sure to properly maintain it by storing it properly and maintain suspension settings in exact compliance with the vehicle owner's manual. If your motorcycle tires are improperly maintained, it could lead to flats, low tire pressure, or other potentially dangerous situations. If you don’t have any experience maintaining your motorcycle tire, be sure to take your motorcycles in to the motorcycle dealer for regular maintenance checks. About the author: Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.my-tire-4me.com/

Frequent Mistakes Made When Looking For Motorcycle Loans by

Whether interest rates are high or low or it’s the end of a model year with lots of incentives, motorcycle buyers tend to make the same mistakes when shopping for a motorcycle loan. Here are four common mistakes motorcycle buyers make with motorcycle loans. Shopping for a motorcycle before shopping for a motorcycle loan. Many motorcycle buyers enter the showroom looking for a motorcycle before they determine how much money a motorcycle lender is willing to loan to them for the purchase of a motorcycle. There is no need to shop for a $20,000 Harley Davidson motorcycle, if a lender is only willing to provide a loan amount of $10,000. Additionally, once motorcycle buyers enter the showroom slick salespeople often pressure them into motorcycle loans with much higher internet rates than they could have gotten had they shopped for a motorcycle loan at a bank, credit union or online. Salespeople do not like motorcycle buyers to leave the dealership to get a motorcycle loan. In the salespersons mind this only increases the chance of loosing a sale and commission. Therefore, salespeople frequently try for a quick sale which normally results in pushing motorcycle buyers to get motorcycle financing at the dealership. The bottom-line is that it is always best to shop for a motorcycle loan before entering the showroom. Borrowing too much. The most common mistake the first time motorcycle buyer makes in not having a clear sense of how much motorcycle they can afford. This is especially true for young motorcycle buyers who look to buy the top sport bikes that cost up to $10,000 - $15,000. What they fail to realize is that financing a $10,000 - $15,000 motorcycle can stretch them to thin, resulting in them having little cash to enjoy themselves and the motorcycling lifestyle. They may also have too little cash to pay for insurance, maintenance, registration or new accessories for their motorcycle. Diving into the unknown motorcycle loan. Motorcycle buyers often jump into motorcycle loans that they do not completely understand or may not be the best alternative for them. For instance, in today’s age manufacturers frequently run credit card motorcycle loan promotions on their private-label credit cards. But these promotions typically offer a low interest rate for a short term like 12 or 24 months and have a much higher interest rate after the short promotional term. On a credit card promotion if motorcycle buyers can not afford to pay off the loan during the short promotion period, then they are typically better taking a slightly higher interest rate on an installment motorcycle loan for a longer term. Not asking the right questions. The first warning sign that motorcycle buyers should see is that if they do not understand the type of motorcycle loan, then they should be sure to ask a lot of questions. Here are some good questions to ask: • What happens if a payment is 30 days late? Does the interest rate increase? • Are there any administrative fees to get the motorcycle loan and if so how much are the fees? • Are there circumstances that can make the interest rate on the motorcycle loan change in the future? • If the loan is an installment loan, does it use rule of 78 or simple interest? (Simple interest is always better because it does not penalize the motorcycle buyer if the loan is paid off early.) • What happens if a payment is 60 days late? Does the interest rate increase? • How long is the term on the motorcycle loan? • Is the interest rate fixed or variable? If fixed how long will it be fixed for? • What is the down payment requirement to get the motorcycle loan? • Is full coverage insurance required? • How much is registration and are these fees included in the motorcycle loan? Overall, motorcycle buyers can avoid these common mistakes by spending a little extra time focusing on shopping for a motorcycle loan and asking lots of questions. About the author: Copyright (c) 2005, by Jay Fran. This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information, and at least one of the below active live links is published with the article. http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com/military-motorcycle-loans.htmlAbout The Author: Jay Fran is a successful author for www.motorcycle-financing-guide.coma website that specializes in finding the best low interest rate online motorcycle loans, including used motorcycle loans.

Getting to know your Motorcycle Parts by

A motorcycle is generally defined as a vehicle with two wheels which is mainly used for the purpose of transporting in land areas. Motorcycles, though small can be compared to automobiles when it comes to speeding. Motorcycles have been enhanced and further improved. Same as mobiles, motorcycle riders need to acquire themselves driver’s license with definite rules for such. Recently, there are different kinds of motorcycle models in relief for the expensive purchase of auto mobiles. Motorcycles compared to automobiles are very handy and requires less fuelling. A motorcycle’s ability can be greatly expanded if upgraded with the best motorcycle parts and brands.If you want to enormously indulge in your motorcycle interests, you definitely need to know the different motorcycle parts. A simple motorcycle generally includes an engine for the gasoline with two steel wheels attached on it. A motorcycle contains a tank which is being located at the top of the engine. The fork is mainly used for pivoting where the wheels and the axle are connected. Handlebars play the role of pivoting the front wheels of the motorcycles which is next to the shock absorber and power which is used for ignition.The engine is considered to be the heart of the motorcycle because it is where everything runs and starts. It is responsible for starting or igniting the motorcycles within a cylinder with the use of fuel or gasoline. The engine is responsible for moving and giving energy to the piston to perform a rotary motion which turns the wheel. The unit of measure of the engine’s size is expressed in cubic centimeters which stand for the volume of cylinders. Motorcycles have transmission which is responsible for controlling the speed, gears, clutches and shifts. The wheels on your motorcycles have brakes which are activated on the hand grip and foot pedal. The suspension is responsible for maintaining the smooth run of the motorcycle in bumpy rough road areas with the help of the shock absorbers. These shock absorbers are very important for dirt bikes because it helps to avoid the engines from being extremely shaken when flying and coursing through the race tracks.Motorcycles have seats same as automobiles but they do not look alike evenly. The seats have cushion for the convenience of the riders and the back riders too. Some motorcycles have small pockets behind the seats for small storages and carry-on luggage. These are the main parts that a typical motorcycle contains. These parts work together for the whole transmission and performance of motorcycles. If you are dissatisfied with your bike’s performance, upgrading your motorcycle parts would be a great deal. But make sure it matches the configuration of your motorcycles to perform greatly. For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


Helpful Tips on how to buy Motorcycles by

Buying motorcycles isn’t just about buying because you need to know some helpful tips ant hints to get the best deals. It would even be very helpful if you consult an expert so you will never have to go wrong or think that your money has been put to waste. In purchasing a used motorcycle, every part of it needs to be checked for durability. All goes well for well-maintained parts. Whether you are and expert or novice, you can easily identify it even by just looking at it. If the parts look grumpy and all worn-out, that won’t pretty serve you much for long. So why invest in buying a cheap one when it entitles you to overspend when it crashes.In buying motorcycles, it would be better if you know the owner you are buying from. At least you will have an idea on how the motorcycle has been treated if the owner took extra efforts in maintaining the motorcycle’s performance. You can also estimate as to whether the motorcycle you are purchasing will still have a longer life or spend your time keeping it up. Some experts say that purchasing second-hand or used motorcycles are better than new ones because the motorcycle has performed several times. Used motorcycles don’t need warming ups and series of road tests. There are other options in buying motorcycles. You can buy a motorcycle from an auction in companies and the Internet usually. When motorcycles are being sold, they deal it through auctions with great deals too. But purchasing with this type is first-come first-serve basis.If you really are in desperate need to purchase a motorcycle very soon, you can easily find one in the newspapers in the ads page. Internet ads and motorcycle sites offer their selling online. They offer product information, listings, pricing and specification. For assurance and warranties, you can buy your motorcycle from an authorized dealer. You can have great deals and discounts depending upon your contract. They also offer selling their products for easy installment for a given period of time. That sure is painless if you don’t have enough money and have other priorities. The simplest and most common way to purchase a motorcycle is through your friends. You will usually hear from them talking about selling motorcycles. If you purchase from a friend, prices can get lower and you can talk about the motorcycle’s condition and performance comfortably. You can also ask for advices because they pretty know well and they are used to operating the motorcycles themselves.No matter how you want to purchase a motorcycle, don’t always be in a hurry to buy one unless you are sure especially if you are a beginner. Of course you won’t want your money to be put waste.For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


How to Save Money on Motorcycle Repair by

Getting the most out of your bike’s repair job is good. But it would be better if you yourself are able to make the repair instead of having others service it. Doing your motorcycle’s maintenance is important for you to realize its fullest potentials.

Bike enthusiasts may not be familiar with the structure of their vehicles and could be missing out on the possibilities of maximizing the use of their motorcycles. Knowing your “horse” is very important if you want to understand it and give it the attention it needs.

The beauty of motorcycles is that is has a relatively open design meaning it is easy to be familiar with the inner workings of the bike. And this fact is going to save you money if you just know what to do and when to do it.

Personal maintenance of your bike is both a learning and rewarding experience. Of course you may opt to have others check-up your bike but nothing beats the satisfaction of having done a good job on your beloved motorcycle. It is fun and very much a worthwhile activity.

If you choose to be your bike’s personal physician, a good number of repair manuals are available that are filled with important information about motorcycles. It will provide you with the needed know-how regarding troubleshooting and maintenance. It also presents a detailed discussion of the engine, clutch, transmission, electrical system, wheels and final drive. The book will also give you tips on how to improve the bike's performance.

The basics of motorcycle repair are outlined in manuals like this making it easier for you to tinker with your bike. Making the necessary repair will be very easy with these manuals as they present you with a clear picture of what it takes to bring your bike back to life. There even also are pictures to further familiarize you with what part of your bike the manual is referring to. With this manual in hand, you need not just limit yourself to making minor repairs but you can also rebuild your engine if you wish so.

Even if you choose to keep your hands clean, it still would be good to understand how you bike works and what it needs to run smoothly. Troubleshooting is easier since you’d know beforehand what is wrong and can relay this information to the repairman. You can give him additional information that is sure to help in making the needed repair for your bike.

About The Author

Ariel Velasco goes by the author alias of Paul Hood. This author is into books and writing. Reading is an essential part of his life and this has lent a considerable influence in his writing. Well traveled and would always want to travel more. He loves learning more about people and their ways. Took up a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology to further this fascination and had a fulfilling educational experience having been exposed to a wide spectrum of people. Always ready for new opportunities to learn and have a great deal of interest in different fields of expertise.

For additional legal information and inquiries about the article log on to http://www.attorneyservicesetc.com

carmelo@attorneyservicesetc.com


Motorcycle Frame Sliders - Design and Selection by

Frame Slider Design And Installation. Call them crash protectors, crash bobbins, fairing protectors or frame sliders, all these products ultimately seek to do one thing - protect your expensive bodywork or the essential and often expensive structural parts of your motorcycle from damage in the even of a fall or tip-over. The frame slider concept is as old as the proverbial 'crash bar' and today there are as many designs and brands as there are models of bikes. The proliferation of these types of products testify to the success of the idea of providing a sacrificial item to absorb some of the damage in the event of a fall. We are by no means experts on this concept nor were we the first to come up with it, but in this article we hope to provide you with an unbiased view so that you can make an informed decision when you're ready to put down your hard earned cash. Cost: Cost of the frame sliders must be appropriate to the items that they are designed to protect. Price is not necessarily the best indicator of quality. Poorly designed frame sliders made of the nicest shiniest materials may not serve their purpose as well as well designed but less 'bling' ones. Mounting Configurations: The frame slider must be designed to mount securely onto a strong enough part of the motorcycle so that impact forces can be adequately distributed or absorbed. Here are some popular mounting configurations. Fairing Mounted Frame Sliders Sliders that mount onto the fairing with small fairing screws may provide some protection in a minor tip-over but offer very minimal protection in a slide. These sliders are not generally recommended for serious riders. Frame Mounted Sliders - Direct The most popular and viable mounting option is directly to a selected strong point of the frame. Sliders with this design offer the most protection and impact force distribution. The installation of this type of slider often require modification of the fairing and in some cases like the Honda VFR800, as extreme as requiring the modification of the coolant bottle. For this reason, many choose the first or the third option as fairing modification can at times be quite intimidating. This option is the most popular for serious sportsriders, amateur and semi-professional racers alike as they provide the best protection for the money. One other thing to consider when choosing these types of sliders is where they will be mounted to. Many models of sportbikes offer several places to mount them, frame slider manufacturers all have their personal reasons for choosing the mounting location for theirs and many of them make that choice for the wrong reasons. An example is cost - a location that offers a two short bolt mounting location is cheaper than one using a long through the engine bolt choice. The former being a much weaker location. If you own an SV650 you will know what we mean. Another choice is the use of a bracket so that cutting of the fairing is avoided - see below (Frame Mounted Frame Sliders-Through-Engine Bolts). Frame Mounted Sliders - In-Direct To address some of the concerns owners may have about modification of the fairing, some manufacturers have opted for a design that allows for the slider to mount onto an offset bracket that then mounts onto the frame. This offset introduces a whole new set of variables into the mix. Depending on the degree of the offset, impact forces now include amplified torque stresses which will be applied to the frame mounting points. Offset brackets will need to be of beefier construction, but not so beefy as to stay intact during an impact while severely damaging the frame mounting points. This is often the most costly type of slider configuration as most brackets require ingenious CNC work and design. In some situations employment of a bracket is a calculated risk, in others it is just not feasible. No cut sliders are attractive to most bikers so do your homework and ask the manfacturer questions before you buy them. Frame Mounted Frame Sliders-Through-Engine Bolts The third mounting option found only on certain models of bikes like the Suzuki DL1000 Vstrom, TL1000S, SV650 and Ducati models of bikes allow for use of the long, through-the-engine mounting bolt. This method is by far the strongest available as impact forces are allowed to be distributed over a much larger area. This is also the second more costly design as these long bolts are quite expensive to manufacture. The design must be structurally strong enough not to break off when encountering the various types of impact forces but not so strong that these forces would be transmitted entirely to and damage the considerably more costly frame mounting points. In other words you want to sacrifice your slider before your fairing and then your frame in that order. It's a delicate balance and there is no sure way to ensure that any one design will accomplish this desired goal. Frame Slider Material: The choice of material used for the frame slider should be a balance of the following 3 requirements: Abrasion Resistance - the material should be hard enough to be able to slow the bike down in a slide and not be totally worn down to the bolt half way through a slide Structural Strength - the material should be strong but not brittle and snap off too easily on impact Energy Absorption-the material used should have some energy absorbing properties but not be so hard that all impact forces are transmitted to the mounting points or fasteners (solid steel or aluminum materials are examples of non-energy absorbing materials). Most high quality frame sliders today are made of some kind of nylon or other for energy absorption and with aluminum inserts for strengthening of the fastening points. The range of nylon types, with different levels of abrasion resistance and "brittleness" used is also quite varied. Fasteners and Components: Quality of materials used, aesthetics and quality of workmanship should also be considered when choosing the right frame slider for your bike. Look for high quality anodized steel bolts. Black non-coated bolts will rust in a week or less depending where you live. Stainless steel washers between your steel bolts and aluminum inserts in the slider also reduce potential corrosion problems. Socket head cap screws offer the smallest footprint allowing for a thicker and stronger slider dimensions and are generally much more expensive then regular hex-head screws. Nyloc lock nuts where applicable are another added safety feature. True, these are all minor considerations in the overall scheme of things but they all add up to the cost of manufacturing. One last thing to remember is to always try to use some form of thread lock compound like Loctite and to properly torque the mounting bolts to the manufacturer's recommendations. If you're not sure check out our torque reference guide. CONCLUSION: Where does that leave you the consumer? Well, we all don't want to think about the day when we will be able to justify the purchase of frame sliders. The reality is that as long as bikes have only two wheels, you can expect them to fall over sooner or later. Frame sliders are one of the surest and least expensive ways to ensure some protection for the expensive or sometimes irreplaceable parts of your bike. After all some protection is still better than none. Think about broken rear brake levers, gear shifters or even worse - punctured radiators or coolant bottles, when you're miles from civilization. The rule is the same in our opinion no matter what you're spending your money on - buy the best you can afford and don't be afraid to ask the manufacturer why their product is better than the plethora of other brands available out there. Any good manufacturer will be very clear about what differentiates their products form others so that you will be able to make the correct purchase decision. For more information about this article please visit: http://www.motovationusa.com © 2003 MotovationUSA.com Copyright Roland Lee - http://www.motovationUSA.com

Motorcycle Helmets for your safety by

Riding the motorcycle has always been hazardous. That is the main reason vehicles riders prefer automobiles rather than motorcycles. More and more motorcycle accidents have been reported each year that is why there have been strict rules implemented in motorcycle riding to decrease such cases.Helmets are specially made to protect the motorcycle rider form encountering hazards in the highways. The rules on wearing helmets have been strictly implemented and it has been found out that cases of accidents have been lessened. This was achieved and continuously helped the people understand that it’s not just about wearing one but for life saving matters too.Helmets can save your head from a deadly accident. Helmets should be worn properly and should fit your head size properly. Wearing a well-fitted helmet is appropriate and more secure especially if it has fastening belts for you to tighten and adjust with comfort. There are different kinds of wearable helmets for your choice and depending upon the type of motorcycle you drive. There are exclusive helmets for dirt bikes, sport bikes and speed bikes. For fast riding, a full face covered helmet should be worn to prevent too much air from getting into your face and eyes. Imagine riding a fast lane at top speed with the air smashing into your face? That’s very rude. This type of head gear offers full protection and comfort features. It also protects your ears from too much engine noise on the road.The open face helmet is still quite risky because it only protects the upper half of your head but not entirely. This kind of helmet is not really very advisable for usage. The only advantage of this is that it’s cheap. But would you cut short your money for an expensive hospital bill when you aren’t caught by luck on the streets? Very few riders purchase this kind of helmets because it offers slight protection and for some, they consider it not cool because of its design and built.Off road are dirt helmets which are used for racing purposes. In racing, riders should be very sure of their helmets because racing invites most of the risk to committing accidents. Before riding, they should make sure that their head gears fit their size. If not very exact, at least choose the helmet which is next to your head size.No matter how heavy you feel in wearing these head gears, think twice and think of your safety and it will pay off everything. If you aren’t comfortable in wearing one, think of its worth and life-saving offers and it will pay off everything. Don’t put your life to risk over some laziness. For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.bestmotorcycleparts.com

About the Author

Karen Nodalo came across writing when she was about 11. The whole craze for writing started when she first wrote her diary during elementary years. After school, she would write in it first before doing homework. She finds it cool and until now she still keeps one. Her passion for writing started and improved. She joined in the school publications and they made her the editor.


Motorcycle Leather: A Purchasing Guide for Leather Motorcycle Apparel by

Since the dawn of the age of motorcycling, it was apparent that something was needed to protect the exposed human body from the elements. The natural solution was leather. The leather motorcycle jacket, a style made popular by such movie icons as James Dean and “the Fonz”, not only serves as a fashion statement, but is an essential piece of equipment to any serious biker for keeping warm, dry, and in one piece. A good “riding grade” leather jacket combined with motorcycle chaps or leather pants, will act as a second skin between you and the road, and can quite literally “save your hide”. With all this in mind, let’s explore the things to consider when purchasing motorcycle leathers.The most common material for motorcycle leather is cowhide, chosen for its strength and durability. Buffalo hide, another high quality leather, is made not from the U.S. buffalo, but the water buffalo most commonly found in India and Pakistan. Many leather products come from this part of the world, and the Pakistanis are world renown for their expertise in the manufacturing of leather garments. Whichever type of hide you choose, you must understand the tanning process, and how it adds or detracts from the quality of the leather. Leather was of course once the skin of an animal, and therefore must go through a tanning process to strengthen it, and to keep it from decomposing. Tanning makes the skin stable and rot proof without sacrificing its structure and strength. The tanning process involves several stages, including the removal of the hair and the outer layer of skin, as well as the fatty part of the flesh. The hide is then stabilized by one of several methods using animal oils, alum, chrome salts or vegetable tanning. How it is actually finished determines the quality, or riding grade, for our purposes. Types of LeatherTo fully understand the types of leather available, one must first know the term “grain”. The grain is simply the epidermis, or outer layer of the animal’s skin. While imperfections such as cuts, scars, and scratches will exist, the grain in its natural state has the best fiber strength, and therefore the best durability. The grain also has natural breathability, resulting in greater comfort to the wearer.Finished Split LeatherThe middle or lower section of a hide that has been split into two or more thicknesses. A polymer coating is applied and embossed to mimic grain leather. Finished splits should only be used in low stress applications because they basically have no grain. If the polymer coating is left out it is often used to make suede. Not considered to be riding grade, but can look good nevertheless.Top Grain LeatherTop grain leather has been sanded to remove scars and imperfections, then sprayed or pasted for a uniform look. The smooth side is where the hair and the natural grain used to be. Top grain is not the same quality as full grain or naked leather, but thicknesses of 1.2-3mm make this type of leather a very strong and durable riding grade material. Full-Grain and Naked LeatherFull-Grain leather is made from the finest hides, and has not been sanded to remove imperfections. Only the hair has been removed. In the case of Naked Leather, where nothing other than the dye is added; this very soft leather requires no breaking in period. Hides are typically 2mm thick, and must be hand picked for uniformity. The natural full-grain naked leather will wear better than other leather, and will actually improve over the years. This type of leather is the ultimate riding grade; the most sought after, and consequently, the most expensive.Now that we know what type of leather we want, we must understand the fact that leather is hot, and understand the options that we have for the climate we live in. For winter biking, a jacket with side laces and a belt will allow you to adjust the jacket to fit snugly against the upper body. Of course, being able to fully zip up only adds to your protection from the wind. You can also wear a leather vest underneath your motorcycle jacket for extra warmth. For hot summer days, a leather jacket with air vents allows the air to circulate underneath the jacket and around your body. For an all year round jacket, consider one with a zip or snap out insulated lining. Leather is not meant to get wet, as that tends to deplete the natural oils, and it is advisable to wear a rain suit over your leathers in inclement weather. However if they do get wet, allow them to dry naturally away from extreme heat. If the leather seems to be losing its luster, it can be oiled to improve its appearance. This supplements the natural oils in the leather itself, which can be washed out through repeated exposure to water. Frequent oiling of leather with mink oil or other commercially available products will keep your leathers supple and improve their lifespan dramatically.Now that you have found the perfect biker jacket, take care of it, and it will reward you with years of wear. The typical lifetime of a heavy textile jacket will be from 3 to 6 years at the most. A well maintained top quality leather motorcycle jacket will easily give you 10 years and more of riding pleasure!

About the Author

Michael Talbert is the founder of Florida based Biker Leather Ltd., an online retailer of leather and textile motorcycle apparel. For more information on leather and leather care, you can visit this web site at NakedLeatherBiker.com


Motorcycle Loans - Steps To Prevent You From Being Caught Up Side Down by

With the depreciation on motorcycles being so enormous after they are driven off the showroom floor, the potential for a buyer owing more on their motorcycle loan than the bike is worth it quite high. Owing more on your bike than it is worth is often referred to as the world of “up side down”.Many people finding themselves in this situation discover that financial lessons are sometimes the hardest and most expensive to learn. Motorcycle loans of more than 48 months (especially without a down payment) put you in the position of owing more than the value of the bike.Let’s take a look at this phenomenon.First, the interest calculation your lender uses can make a big difference in your situation, especially in the first 18 months. There are two primary interest calculations, pre-computed (combined with rule of 78) and simple interest.Pre-computed interest combined with Rule of 78, is typically the worst situation for a buyer because most of the interest is paid in the first 24 months. Therefore, in the first 24 months little of the monthly payment has gone towards paying down principal. If a buyer wishes to sell or trade in the motorcycle within this timeframe they will likely find themselves owing more than the bike is worth. Statistics show that the average owner trades in every 18-24 months.Simple interest on the other hand, is much more favorable for buyers since interest accrues on the balance of the loan. However, buyers that extend their loans for greater than 48 months can still find themselves up side down with simple interest. This is especially true if a down payment is not made. The reason this occurs is that the motorcycle depreciates faster than the principal is paid; leaving the balance owed to the lender to be more than the bike can be sold for.A common view that many people have is that they will just surrender their motorcycle to the lender if they are caught in an “up side down” position. If you are considering this option don’t! Your worries do not just end after your bike is surrendered or repossessed; in fact they are just beginning. The lender will sell your bike at an auction for much less than it is worth. You will still owe the difference between the amount you owed on your loan and the amount the motorcycle sold for at auction. So if you owe $5000 and the bike sells for $1500, you still are responsible for owing the lender $3500. To make it worse lenders may tack on hefty auction fees which you will owe as well. So the net result is that you are now responsible for making monthly payments on a bike you can no longer ride.So what steps can you take to prevent from being caught “up side down”?1. Find a lender that uses simple interest. Avoid lenders that use pre-computed / Rule of 78 interest calculations.2. Always try to put money down on your purchase.3. Try to avoid motorcycle loans that extend past 36 months.Copyright (c) 2005, by Jay Fran This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information and the below active live link with anchored text is published with the article:Motorcycle Loans, Bad Credit Motorcycle Loans, Motorcycle Loan Guide

About the Author

Jay Fran is a successful author and publisher at http://www.motorcycle-financing-guide.com. A comprehensive resource on how to have the best experience and get the best deal on motorcycle financing, bad credit motorcycle loans, high risk motorcycle loans and motorcycle buying.


Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket ??? by

This is always a difficult one to answer when shopping for motorcycle parts and I firmly believe that each one of us must decide what's best for our bikes AFTER carefully evaluating each of the possibilities. For me?Well... it really depends on what I am looking for - just replacement or improvement - , the availability of the part, my budget and other things. Sometimes I buy OEM, others aftermarket motorcycle parts. Keep reading. You will find some views that will hopefully help you decide the next time you shop for motorcycle parts.What a heck are OEM parts??OEM parts stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts which not necessarily mean the OM (Original Manufacturer) actually produced them. You know, many motorcycle and automobile manufacturers don't manufacture each of the parts used in their vehicles. They frequently have the parts designed and manufactured by outside independent companies and then, install them in their machines or put them in their own boxes to be sold as OEM parts!Good to know when buying OEM Motorcycle Parts:When you buy OEM Motorcycle Parts you are buying the exact same original part the manufacturer used to build your motorcycle, that means:>> Same performance as the part installed in your motorcycle right now. The part won't be better nor worse than the original part you want to replace.>> Normally OEM parts a more (in some cases MUCH more) expensive than aftermarket parts.>> Motorcycle and car agencies clerks will normally tell you OEM Parts are higher quality and the best option for replacements. Is this true? Well sometimes it is, sometimes it's not.>> Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part! :-)>> BE CAREFUL if your bike is still in its guarantee period make sure you use only OEM parts and have them installed by authorized mechanics. If you don't do so, you will probably void the guarantee.What about Aftermarket parts??Aftermarket parts should perform as well as OEM parts but are produced by companies other than the original manufacturer(s).Things to know when buying Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts:>> MAKE SURE YOUR GUARANTEE PERIOD IS OVER. In many cases, you can VOID your guarantee if you have an aftermarket part installed by an unauthorized mechanic in your machine. I know I said it before, but it's worth repeating; I happened to me! :-(>> Equivalent aftermarket Suzuki motorcycle parts are normally cheaper than OEM parts. Sometimes up to 70% cheaper!>> Aftermarket parts can have lower,the same or higher quality than the original.>> When buying aftermarket parts make sure you are getting AT LEAST the same quality as the OEM part. If possible try to get some reviews about brands and performance. You can do it in the Internet, with your favorite mechanic or with fellow riders.>> If you are looking for high performance parts and devices, you know the kind: carbon fiber, titanium, aerospace aluminum parts and gizmos, well you will probably find them as aftermarket motorcycle parts.OEM or aftermarket motorcycle parts, sooner or later you will be shopping for them...Enjoy the ride!Daniel Levy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com . He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/If you need motorcycle parts, check out BikeBandit: my favorite online store for motorcycle parts. You will find a full review of their business in this page:http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html


Motorcycle Parts - OEM or Aftermarket ??? by

This is always a difficult one to answer when shopping for motorcycle parts and I firmly believe that each one of us must decide what's best for our bikes AFTER carefully evaluating each of the possibilities. For me?Well... it really depends on what I am looking for - just replacement or improvement - , the availability of the part, my budget and other things. Sometimes I buy OEM, others aftermarket motorcycle parts. Keep reading. You will find some views that will hopefully help you decide the next time you shop for motorcycle parts.What a heck are OEM parts??OEM parts stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts which not necessarily mean the OM (Original Manufacturer) actually produced them. You know, many motorcycle and automobile manufacturers don't manufacture each of the parts used in their vehicles. They frequently have the parts designed and manufactured by outside independent companies and then, install them in their machines or put them in their own boxes to be sold as OEM parts!Good to know when buying OEM Motorcycle Parts:When you buy OEM Motorcycle Parts you are buying the exact same original part the manufacturer used to build your motorcycle, that means:>> Same performance as the part installed in your motorcycle right now. The part won't be better nor worse than the original part you want to replace.>> Normally OEM parts a more (in some cases MUCH more) expensive than aftermarket parts.>> Motorcycle and car agencies clerks will normally tell you OEM Parts are higher quality and the best option for replacements. Is this true? Well sometimes it is, sometimes it's not.>> Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part! :-)>> BE CAREFUL if your bike is still in its guarantee period make sure you use only OEM parts and have them installed by authorized mechanics. If you don't do so, you will probably void the guarantee.What about Aftermarket parts??Aftermarket parts should perform as well as OEM parts but are produced by companies other than the original manufacturer(s).Things to know when buying Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts:>> MAKE SURE YOUR GUARANTEE PERIOD IS OVER. In many cases, you can VOID your guarantee if you have an aftermarket part installed by an unauthorized mechanic in your machine. I know I said it before, but it's worth repeating; I happened to me! :-(>> Equivalent aftermarket Suzuki motorcycle parts are normally cheaper than OEM parts. Sometimes up to 70% cheaper!>> Aftermarket parts can have lower,the same or higher quality than the original.>> When buying aftermarket parts make sure you are getting AT LEAST the same quality as the OEM part. If possible try to get some reviews about brands and performance. You can do it in the Internet, with your favorite mechanic or with fellow riders.>> If you are looking for high performance parts and devices, you know the kind: carbon fiber, titanium, aerospace aluminum parts and gizmos, well you will probably find them as aftermarket motorcycle parts.OEM or aftermarket motorcycle parts, sooner or later you will be shopping for them...Enjoy the ride!Daniel Levy

About the Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com . He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/If you need motorcycle parts, check out BikeBandit: my favorite online store for motorcycle parts. You will find a full review of their business in this page:http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com/bike-bandit.html


Motorcycle Protective clothing That works! by

There is some great looking motorcycle clothing on the market these days, but believe me not all of the motorcycle clothing offers as much protection as you think. In Europe, for motorcycle clothing to be lawfully sold as “safety clothing, it has to pass a series of European standards, which are pretty lengthy but are available on my website. The standards cover the clothing’s performance in abrasion, tearing and impact tests, and when they have passed; they are sold with the CE mark. However, no such regulation is available in the USA, so what should you look for?Protection in the right places…Not many people realise that most motorcycle injuries occur below the belt. Your legs and feet are extremely vulnerable, so make sure that you wear a decent pair of high boots and some protective pants. The pants should be reinforced at the knees and hips; ideally they should attach to your jacket by a zipper. Boots should be thick leather, with a sole that can flex with the foot but has a resistance to crushing across the foot.Traditional material for motorcycle clothing is leather, but thick nylon and other synthetic materials work well too. Kevlar reinforced jeans are better than normal jeans .Normal jeans last 0.6 seconds in the European standard abrasion test, while protective motorcycle pants will last 5 seconds or more. You don’t really want to be ripping your skin open within less than half a second of falling of your bike do you? Thought not.Same principles apply to jackets. Make sure they are hardwearing, if they are leather make sure it is thick leather not fashion leather like some jackets. Stitching should be uniform with no dropped stitches, and all your “sharp bits”, your elbows and shoulders should be reinforced, ideally with some impact protection included.A decent pair of gloves is a must; your palms will be at risk in an accident; you instinctively put out your hands palm side down to stop yourself in a slide, so the palms of your gloves should be reinforced with patches. Knitted Kevlar is especially good for this kind of abrasion resistance, but reinforced leather works well too.Impact protection can be bought separately like back protectors and so on, but remember where your most vulnerable areas are. And make sure if you buy impact protection you actually wear it! If you have any doubts it may be better to go for motorcycle clothing with a degree of impact protection included so that you know when you put on your jacket and pants, the protection is always going to be there.Last but not least, pick out a helmet you can wear and wear it always. You may have a greater chance of getting injured below the waist in a motorcycle accident, but the consequences of being involved in an accident without a helmet just don’t bear thinking about….So, next time you are shopping for motorcycle clothing, give a bit of thought to the level of protection it offers before you buy it. You never know it could save you a lot of unnecessary pain!Copyright Michael Holmes 2005 Permission is granted to reproduce this article provided a live link is provided to http://www.motorcycleparts-accessories-andmore.com

About the Author

Michael Holmes is a enthusiast for all thing motorcycle. His website, http://www.motorcycleparts-accessories-andmore.com, is a great resource of articles aimed at motorcyclists of all levels, including a page specifically for motorcycle clothing.


Motorcycle Riding in Style: Check Out These Bike Gears! by

There are so many choices in purchasing a motorcycle. Often what you’d consider and compare with others are in terms of handling, speed, luggage, space and its overall appearance. Of course, these factors, among many others, would generally be based on your choice between the type of bike you that’s most preferable for your lifestyle and personality: touring, sport-touring, sport, standard, cruiser, enduro, dual-sport and off-road. Each type also comes with its very own riding attitude and of course, riding gears and accessories. Notice this, Harley-Davidson bike riders would not go out riding in the same biking outfit and accessories as Ducati sports bike riders. Here are several gears and accessories worth checking out for sport bike riders. These gears would ensure riding safety and enable you to go out riding in style, too!Shoei RF-1000 metallic helmet – this helmet combines safety, fit and style. It ensures comfort because of the lightweight material its shell is made of. It has a superior ventilation and anti-fog system, removable interior cheek pads and sturdy, removable chinstraps. It provides increased peripheral vision, optical clarity and 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays. The stylishness of Shoei’s RF 1000 helmet would most probably be as impeccable as your other riding gears.You can also check out HJC, Arai and Nolan for other high-quality and stylish motorcycle helmets.AGV laser one-piece riding suit – considering that leather is the way to go for motorcycle gears, this fashionable suit is made from 1.44 mm premium cowhide and features double and triple stitched seams in all high impact areas. It has a ventilated design with Schoeller Kevlar Keprotec stretch panels inside the sleeves and behind the knees for added comfort and plastic knee cups and sliders for added protection. It could be easily slipped on easily, too.Teknic Sturgis overpants – this is made to be worn over jeans for added protection. Composed of top grade cowhide leather, these overpants have full-length two-way side zippers, elastic leather waistband with a Velcro adjustable waist belt, and leather stretch panels at the knees. It ensures the ease of your leg movements. Joe Rocket black leather jacket – safe and sound is an understatement with this jacket handy. What more could you ask when it has a plastic body armor, dual density spine pad and Full Flex windproof sleeve panels. It is made from 1.3 mm Armor Tan ceramic infused leather. Ventilation and added protection is also provided by its fitted and adjustable waistband and reflective stripe. >> If you want to try out other fashionable and trusted brands for motorcycle one-piece suits, jackets and overpants try out Aerostich, Joe Rocket, Tourmaster, and FirstGear.Icon barrier gloves – wearing of motorcycle-specific gloves to protect your hands is highly recommended. Thus, there’s nothing more preferable than Icon gloves. These stylish hand gears feature padding on the back and padded rivets on the palm. It is also made of flexible Stretch Schoeller chassis with a half-fingered glove overlay for protection, rubberized rigid armor, Aramid stitching, and integrated soft armor in the wrist for impact protection and abrasion resistance.Sidi Vertebra 2 Te-Por boots – superior protection is the overall statement of these boots due to its patented Vertebra protection system. They are reliable riding boots to protect your feet, ankles and shins. Other features include easy-to-use screw-on scuff pads, malleolus guards on the outer edge of each boot, a replaceable bolt on the plastic shin plate, and optional panels that are available in chrome and carbon fiber.However, whatever boots you choose to wear as riding gear, remember to tuck in your laces. This way they stay out of the chain preventing them to hook onto the foot peg once you try to put your feet down.When motorcycle riding, you must always check your tires for pressure, wear, cuts and stones. You must also check out your engine oil and coolant levels and ensure that your headlights, brake lights and turn signals are operational. And to further make your bike riding enjoyable and satisfying, do not forget your riding gears. Fashion statements can really go hand-in-hand with motorcycle riding! -30-For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.motorcyclepartsbin.com

About the Author

Kay Zetkin discovered the pleasure of writing through her daily journals as a teen-ager. Writing in it helped sort out her thoughts, relieve her feelings and record what she observes of the world.For her, writing is an effective tool to express your viewpoints... To write is already to choose, thus, writing should be done along with a critical mind and a caring soul. She hopes to become more professional, skilled and mature in her craft.


Motorcycle Shipping. by

Is motorcycle shipping any different to car shipping?There are quite a few main differences between car shipping and motorcycle shipping. While a car has a reliable handbrake and four wheels for extra stability a motorcycle is quite different by design and has only two wheels with nothing to keep the bike stationery apart from the stand. You might think that motorcycle shipping would be cheaper than car shipping because of the difference in size of vehicles but this is rarely the case. The closed carriers that are often used should be specially designed to carry motorcycles and this will mean that there will either be palettes specially designed for the purpose of motorcycle shipping or there will be specially fitted tracks that serve the same purpose. What this means is that a motorcycle basically takes up the same room as a car when it needs to be shipped anywhere.How expensive is motorcycle shipping?This is dependant on two main factors. How far you are travelling and what services the company you intend to use has to offer. There are a variety of different services that a shipping company can offer you and you would be better using a specialist motorcycle shipper than a car shipper that offers motorcycle shipping as an extra service.The further you are travelling and the more services you require the higher the price is likely to be, but you will receive a discount from the right company if you are transporting more than one motorbike so do shop around and check any quotes you receive carefully.Is motorcycle shipping safe?A reputable specialist motorcycle shipping company will know exactly what they are doing with your bike. Many companies employ motorbike enthusiasts and owners to drive the carriers so you can be sure that the driver knows how much your motorbike means to you. This isn’t to say there isn’t the occasional accident, it’s only to be expected when transporting vehicles across long distance.A good shipping company will include some insurance with your quote and will try their utmost to ensure that nothing does go wrong. While the Insurance will cover you for scratches and careless damage by the shipping company it is unlikely to cover for ‘acts of god’ like the ship sinking or damage due to rough waters. If you’re especially worried about this, either because of the time of year, the expected weather or simply because you are transporting your pride and joy you can buy extra Insurance that covers for virtually any eventuality and your shipping company should be able to offer you a little advice on the relevant policies.

About the Author

For more more information about motorcycle shipping please visit www.vehicle-shipping-tips.com


Motorcycle suspension-mastering a black art by

Suspension Set-up: The basicsWhether you are a road rider or a racer correct suspension setup is the key to fast smooth riding and consistent lap times. To get the best out of your bike it needs to be set up for the conditions in which you will be riding. It is considerably easier to set the bike up for the Track as you know what conditions will be like for the next hour or so and thus you can dial in the optimum settings for the that particular situation.To what extent you change your suspension settings will depend on whether your bike will also have to cope with riding on the road. Unlike Roads Tracks are generally smooth and grippy. So if you are only going to use the bike on the track you have the luxury of fitting harder springs and modifying the fork and shock internals. If you ride on the road as well as the track you will probably want to keep a certain comfort level and concentrate on just optimizing the current equipmentWith incorrect suspension setup, tire wear is increased and handling suffers, which in turn can result in rider fatigue. Lap times can be dramatically slower and in extreme cases safety can be compromised. Hopefully the following guide will help you dial in your suspension for faster and safer riding both on and off the track.Firstly you will need to check the Fork and Shock sag: this is the amount the forks and rear shock settle under load. To measure it do the following: push down on the forks a number of times to settle them, then mark the stanchion with a felt pen or put a cable tie where the dust seal is sitting. Next ask some for help to lift on the bars so the front wheel is just off the ground and measure the amount the forks have traveled down. This is the static sag (or unladen sag), This can be changed by adjusting the spring preload (more preload = less sag). Repeat the same process for the rear, this time measuring the distance from the wheel spindle to a fixed point on the tail. Now you are ready to begin setting up your suspension. The key is to do it a little at a time and make notes as you go. For road riding start with the wet track settings and work from there.Basic Setup: Check the followingForks sag 18-22 mm for dry track, 23-27mm for rain.Shock sag 8-10mm for dry track, 10-14mm for rain.Check chain alignment. If not correct, bike will crab walk and sprocket wear will be increased.Proper tire balance and pressure, starting with 30psi front and 32psi rear (both dry and wet).Steering head bearings and torque specifications - if too loose, there will be head shake at high speeds.Front-end alignment. Check wheel alignment with triple clamps. If out of alignment, fork geometry will be incorrect and steering will suffer.Crash damage, check for proper frame geometry.Stock Suspension Tuning LimitationsManufacturers plan on designing a bike that works moderately well for a large section of riders and usages. To accomplish this as economically as possible, they use valving with very small venturis. These are then matched to a very basic shim stack which creates a damping curve for the given suspension component. At slower speeds this design can work moderately well, but at higher speeds, when the suspension must react more quickly, the suspension will not flow enough oil, and will experience hydraulic lock. With hydraulic lock, the fork and/or shock cannot dampen correctly and handling suffers. The solution is to re-valve the active components to gain a proper damping curve. It does not matter what components you have, (Ohlins, Fox, Kayaba, Showa) matching them to your intended use and weight will vastly improve their action. Furthermore, if you can achieve the damping curve that is needed, it does not matter what brand name is on the component. Often with stock components, when you turn the adjusters full in or out, you do not notice a difference. In part, this is due to the fact that the manufacturer has put the damping curve in an area outside of your ideal range. Also, because the valves have such small venturis, the adjuster change makes very little difference. After re-valving, the adjusters will be brought into play, and when you make an adjustment, you will be able to notice that it affects the way the way the fork or shock performs.Another problem with stock suspension is the springs that are used. Often they are progressive, increasing the spring rate with increased compression distance. This means that the valving is correct for only one part of the spring's travel, all other is compromise. If the factory does install a straight-rate spring, it is rarely the correct rate for the weight of the rider with gear. The solution is to install a straight-rate spring that matches the valving for the combined weight of the bike, rider and gear to the type of riding intended.Remember!• Always make small adjustments, more is not always better.• Always keep notes of what you have done.• Suspension tuning is an art - be patient

About the Author

mark Thompson Lives in Spain and runs a number of websites including www.worldoftheweird.com and www.trackbikes.co.uk


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling? You will need the motorcycle values... by

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:1.- In the books2.- In the marketTHE BOOKSIn the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithfulinformation about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.The National Automobile Dealers Association (N.A.D.A.) is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book". THE MARKETAnother way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.RECOMMENDATION Prices may vary (sometimes a lot) depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.Enjoy the Ride!Daniel Levy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com . He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com .


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling? You will need the motorcycle values... by

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:1.- In the books2.- In the marketTHE BOOKSIn the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithfulinformation about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.The National Automobile Dealers Association (N.A.D.A.) is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book". THE MARKETAnother way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.RECOMMENDATION Prices may vary (sometimes a lot) depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.Enjoy the Ride!Daniel Levy

About the Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com . He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com .


Necessity of Motorcycle Parts by

If you are one of the many people who consider your bike as invaluable as your family, then we know you’re head over heels. We may be judged heavily for this perception but you might even be willing to dump your partner just so you could spend time riding and caring for your bike… though, we hope you are not that obsessed. Of course, once you’ve discovered the thrill and speed of the open road, there’s really nothing quite alike the exuberance you felt. Eventually, it will not only be a way to travel for you, it becomes a way of life. Many other motorcycle enthusiasts discover these at certain stages after acquiring their motorcycles. You find these dedicated enthusiasts like yourself all over the country. It’s no surprise to know that you would also demand nothing but the best motorcycle parts for your bike. Getting the right motorcycle parts is not only a matter of vanity or style. Necessity is the most important consideration. Once you do not have sturdy replacements for important parts and even accessories like worn brakes, cracked windshield, bent kickstand, you’re in trouble. All the more worse if your local parts store has no replacement parts available. Most motorcycle parts should be found not to make your bike look nice and sleek. You simply can't afford to be without these motorcycle parts which are equal to that of our limbs and joints. You may never know what sort of disaster may arise that would make you realize just how important it is to have extra or replacement motorcycle parts and accessories handy all time. Equally important, too, you have to know where you could easily get the specific parts you need that suits the model of your bike. It is frustrating to find out that the motorcycle parts store in your state doesn’t have any of the items you badly need. Motorcycle parts suppliers can be hard to find in a lot of areas of the country. There may be some that you can find but they may not have stocks on the parts that you need. With a reverent understanding of these situations, it is good news to report that motorcycle parts industries and retailers have gone online with their motorcycle parts catalogs. Huge selection, large inventory, and convenience are the factors that make shopping for your motorcycle needs online the best way to get exactly what you’re looking for.The Internet has hundreds of catalogs full of any motorcycle parts you may need. As a true biker, you have to be complete with all the motorcycle parts and facilities that will enable you to ride out with the finest bike, sturdy, dependable and lovely piece of machine, too. -30-For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.motorcyclepartsbin.com

About the Author

Lala C. Ballatan is a 26 year-old Communication Arts graduate.Book reading has always been her greatest passion -- mysteries, horrors, psycho-thrillers, historical documentaries and classics. Her writing prowess began as early as she was 10 years old in girlish diaries. With writing, she felt freedom – to express her viewpoints and assert it, to bring out all concerns -- imagined and observed, to bear witness.


Need A Harley Davidson Part For Your Motorcycle? by

Where do you get a good quality Harley Davidson Part? Can I use an aftermarket part? These questions are not easy to answer. It depends a lot on your situation, part you're looking for, and the money you want to spend. The bottom line......... you have to decide. I have a little information here that may be useful to you, so keep reading! An OEM part versus an aftermarket part. An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part are of course the genuine Harley Davidson Part you would find at an authorized Harley dealer. These parts are original in that they have the exact same specifications that came with the original part. These parts however many not have been manufactured by Harley Davidson themselves (at their physical location). Harley may get another company to manufacture these parts to Harley specs, and then they will sell them in the Harley box as OEM. OEM parts are generally more expensive, and almost always recommended by the dealer. (They make their money by selling parts not bikes) The dealer will most likely tell you that OEM parts are of a higher quality. This may or may not be true. An Aftermarket part should perform as well as an OEM but take note. These parts were made by a company other than the original manufacturer. Sometimes after a certain time period the original manufacturer of a part will allow the company that physically manufactured the part to sell it at a reduced price and in their own packaging. The part now becomes an OEM aftermarket part. Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part So what does this tell you about that Harley Davidson Part that you need? If you cannot find the quality in an aftermarket part, then search for the OEM provided it is in your price range. There is a lot of competition out there between vendors who want your dollar. An aftermarket Harley part, for your Harley Davidson are generally of good to excellent quality. If you own a Harley, sooner or later you will have to buy parts for it. Buying online has its conveniences and you don't have to go downtown and fight traffic.

About the Author: Keith Nivon is an avid Harley Davidson Motorcycle Enthusiast! His website contains information on all things Harley Davidson. http://www.everything-harley-davidson.com is a great article resource for anyone who shares a passion for Harley Davidson Motorcycles.

Source: www.isnare.com

Motorcycle Shipping. by

Is motorcycle shipping any different to car shipping?There are quite a few main differences between car shipping and motorcycle shipping. While a car has a reliable handbrake and four wheels for extra stability a motorcycle is quite different by design and has only two wheels with nothing to keep the bike stationery apart from the stand. You might think that motorcycle shipping would be cheaper than car shipping because of the difference in size of vehicles but this is rarely the case. The closed carriers that are often used should be specially designed to carry motorcycles and this will mean that there will either be palettes specially designed for the purpose of motorcycle shipping or there will be specially fitted tracks that serve the same purpose. What this means is that a motorcycle basically takes up the same room as a car when it needs to be shipped anywhere.How expensive is motorcycle shipping?This is dependant on two main factors. How far you are travelling and what services the company you intend to use has to offer. There are a variety of different services that a shipping company can offer you and you would be better using a specialist motorcycle shipper than a car shipper that offers motorcycle shipping as an extra service.The further you are travelling and the more services you require the higher the price is likely to be, but you will receive a discount from the right company if you are transporting more than one motorbike so do shop around and check any quotes you receive carefully.Is motorcycle shipping safe?A reputable specialist motorcycle shipping company will know exactly what they are doing with your bike. Many companies employ motorbike enthusiasts and owners to drive the carriers so you can be sure that the driver knows how much your motorbike means to you. This isn’t to say there isn’t the occasional accident, it’s only to be expected when transporting vehicles across long distance.A good shipping company will include some insurance with your quote and will try their utmost to ensure that nothing does go wrong. While the Insurance will cover you for scratches and careless damage by the shipping company it is unlikely to cover for ‘acts of god’ like the ship sinking or damage due to rough waters. If you’re especially worried about this, either because of the time of year, the expected weather or simply because you are transporting your pride and joy you can buy extra Insurance that covers for virtually any eventuality and your shipping company should be able to offer you a little advice on the relevant policies.

About the Author

For more more information about motorcycle shipping please visit www.vehicle-shipping-tips.com


Motorcycle suspension-mastering a black art by

Suspension Set-up: The basicsWhether you are a road rider or a racer correct suspension setup is the key to fast smooth riding and consistent lap times. To get the best out of your bike it needs to be set up for the conditions in which you will be riding. It is considerably easier to set the bike up for the Track as you know what conditions will be like for the next hour or so and thus you can dial in the optimum settings for the that particular situation.To what extent you change your suspension settings will depend on whether your bike will also have to cope with riding on the road. Unlike Roads Tracks are generally smooth and grippy. So if you are only going to use the bike on the track you have the luxury of fitting harder springs and modifying the fork and shock internals. If you ride on the road as well as the track you will probably want to keep a certain comfort level and concentrate on just optimizing the current equipmentWith incorrect suspension setup, tire wear is increased and handling suffers, which in turn can result in rider fatigue. Lap times can be dramatically slower and in extreme cases safety can be compromised. Hopefully the following guide will help you dial in your suspension for faster and safer riding both on and off the track.Firstly you will need to check the Fork and Shock sag: this is the amount the forks and rear shock settle under load. To measure it do the following: push down on the forks a number of times to settle them, then mark the stanchion with a felt pen or put a cable tie where the dust seal is sitting. Next ask some for help to lift on the bars so the front wheel is just off the ground and measure the amount the forks have traveled down. This is the static sag (or unladen sag), This can be changed by adjusting the spring preload (more preload = less sag). Repeat the same process for the rear, this time measuring the distance from the wheel spindle to a fixed point on the tail. Now you are ready to begin setting up your suspension. The key is to do it a little at a time and make notes as you go. For road riding start with the wet track settings and work from there.Basic Setup: Check the followingForks sag 18-22 mm for dry track, 23-27mm for rain.Shock sag 8-10mm for dry track, 10-14mm for rain.Check chain alignment. If not correct, bike will crab walk and sprocket wear will be increased.Proper tire balance and pressure, starting with 30psi front and 32psi rear (both dry and wet).Steering head bearings and torque specifications - if too loose, there will be head shake at high speeds.Front-end alignment. Check wheel alignment with triple clamps. If out of alignment, fork geometry will be incorrect and steering will suffer.Crash damage, check for proper frame geometry.Stock Suspension Tuning LimitationsManufacturers plan on designing a bike that works moderately well for a large section of riders and usages. To accomplish this as economically as possible, they use valving with very small venturis. These are then matched to a very basic shim stack which creates a damping curve for the given suspension component. At slower speeds this design can work moderately well, but at higher speeds, when the suspension must react more quickly, the suspension will not flow enough oil, and will experience hydraulic lock. With hydraulic lock, the fork and/or shock cannot dampen correctly and handling suffers. The solution is to re-valve the active components to gain a proper damping curve. It does not matter what components you have, (Ohlins, Fox, Kayaba, Showa) matching them to your intended use and weight will vastly improve their action. Furthermore, if you can achieve the damping curve that is needed, it does not matter what brand name is on the component. Often with stock components, when you turn the adjusters full in or out, you do not notice a difference. In part, this is due to the fact that the manufacturer has put the damping curve in an area outside of your ideal range. Also, because the valves have such small venturis, the adjuster change makes very little difference. After re-valving, the adjusters will be brought into play, and when you make an adjustment, you will be able to notice that it affects the way the way the fork or shock performs.Another problem with stock suspension is the springs that are used. Often they are progressive, increasing the spring rate with increased compression distance. This means that the valving is correct for only one part of the spring's travel, all other is compromise. If the factory does install a straight-rate spring, it is rarely the correct rate for the weight of the rider with gear. The solution is to install a straight-rate spring that matches the valving for the combined weight of the bike, rider and gear to the type of riding intended.Remember!• Always make small adjustments, more is not always better.• Always keep notes of what you have done.• Suspension tuning is an art - be patient

About the Author

mark Thompson Lives in Spain and runs a number of websites including www.worldoftheweird.com and www.trackbikes.co.uk


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling? You will need the motorcycle values... by

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:1.- In the books2.- In the marketTHE BOOKSIn the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithfulinformation about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.The National Automobile Dealers Association (N.A.D.A.) is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book". THE MARKETAnother way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.RECOMMENDATION Prices may vary (sometimes a lot) depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.Enjoy the Ride!Daniel Levy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com . He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com .


Motorcycle Values $ - Buying or selling? You will need the motorcycle values... by

And Japanese Motorcycles Only is here to help!There are basically two ways to obtain motorcycle values:1.- In the books2.- In the marketTHE BOOKSIn the United States the two main pricing guides are: the Kelley Blue Book and the N.A.D.A. guides.Personally I like very much the N.A.D.A. guides. They give faithfulinformation about almost every motor vehicle produced since 1933, and several configuration options to help you get an accurate value of your motorcycle or the one you want to buy.The National Automobile Dealers Association (N.A.D.A.) is nowadays the largest publisher of Appraisal Guides in the world. Their guides provide information for most of the motor vehicles ever made: cars, motorcycles, boats, recreation vehicles and more. Since 1933, N.A.D.A. has been helping buyers to make informative, responsible and safe decisions when buying motor vehicles.The N.A.D.A. guide for motorcycles are better know as: the "Motorcycle Blue book". THE MARKETAnother way to check for prices is to look into your local market. You can do it online and/or offline. Search in the newspaper, bulletin boards, classified adds, E-Bay, shops, friends. Compare prices take a look at the physical condition of different used motorcycles.RECOMMENDATION Prices may vary (sometimes a lot) depending where in the world you are located in. So, always check in the books AND in your local market to get accurate values.Enjoy the Ride!Daniel Levy

About the Author

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com . He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com .


Necessity of Motorcycle Parts by

If you are one of the many people who consider your bike as invaluable as your family, then we know you’re head over heels. We may be judged heavily for this perception but you might even be willing to dump your partner just so you could spend time riding and caring for your bike… though, we hope you are not that obsessed. Of course, once you’ve discovered the thrill and speed of the open road, there’s really nothing quite alike the exuberance you felt. Eventually, it will not only be a way to travel for you, it becomes a way of life. Many other motorcycle enthusiasts discover these at certain stages after acquiring their motorcycles. You find these dedicated enthusiasts like yourself all over the country. It’s no surprise to know that you would also demand nothing but the best motorcycle parts for your bike. Getting the right motorcycle parts is not only a matter of vanity or style. Necessity is the most important consideration. Once you do not have sturdy replacements for important parts and even accessories like worn brakes, cracked windshield, bent kickstand, you’re in trouble. All the more worse if your local parts store has no replacement parts available. Most motorcycle parts should be found not to make your bike look nice and sleek. You simply can't afford to be without these motorcycle parts which are equal to that of our limbs and joints. You may never know what sort of disaster may arise that would make you realize just how important it is to have extra or replacement motorcycle parts and accessories handy all time. Equally important, too, you have to know where you could easily get the specific parts you need that suits the model of your bike. It is frustrating to find out that the motorcycle parts store in your state doesn’t have any of the items you badly need. Motorcycle parts suppliers can be hard to find in a lot of areas of the country. There may be some that you can find but they may not have stocks on the parts that you need. With a reverent understanding of these situations, it is good news to report that motorcycle parts industries and retailers have gone online with their motorcycle parts catalogs. Huge selection, large inventory, and convenience are the factors that make shopping for your motorcycle needs online the best way to get exactly what you’re looking for.The Internet has hundreds of catalogs full of any motorcycle parts you may need. As a true biker, you have to be complete with all the motorcycle parts and facilities that will enable you to ride out with the finest bike, sturdy, dependable and lovely piece of machine, too. -30-For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.motorcyclepartsbin.com

About the Author

Lala C. Ballatan is a 26 year-old Communication Arts graduate.Book reading has always been her greatest passion -- mysteries, horrors, psycho-thrillers, historical documentaries and classics. Her writing prowess began as early as she was 10 years old in girlish diaries. With writing, she felt freedom – to express her viewpoints and assert it, to bring out all concerns -- imagined and observed, to bear witness.


Need A Harley Davidson Part For Your Motorcycle? by

Where do you get a good quality Harley Davidson Part? Can I use an aftermarket part? These questions are not easy to answer. It depends a lot on your situation, part you're looking for, and the money you want to spend. The bottom line......... you have to decide. I have a little information here that may be useful to you, so keep reading! An OEM part versus an aftermarket part. An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part are of course the genuine Harley Davidson Part you would find at an authorized Harley dealer. These parts are original in that they have the exact same specifications that came with the original part. These parts however many not have been manufactured by Harley Davidson themselves (at their physical location). Harley may get another company to manufacture these parts to Harley specs, and then they will sell them in the Harley box as OEM. OEM parts are generally more expensive, and almost always recommended by the dealer. (They make their money by selling parts not bikes) The dealer will most likely tell you that OEM parts are of a higher quality. This may or may not be true. An Aftermarket part should perform as well as an OEM but take note. These parts were made by a company other than the original manufacturer. Sometimes after a certain time period the original manufacturer of a part will allow the company that physically manufactured the part to sell it at a reduced price and in their own packaging. The part now becomes an OEM aftermarket part. Normally after a certain period of time, the manufacturer will allow the company that originally designed/produced the part to sell it in their own box at a considerably lower cost, making it: an Aftermarket OEM part So what does this tell you about that Harley Davidson Part that you need? If you cannot find the quality in an aftermarket part, then search for the OEM provided it is in your price range. There is a lot of competition out there between vendors who want your dollar. An aftermarket Harley part, for your Harley Davidson are generally of good to excellent quality. If you own a Harley, sooner or later you will have to buy parts for it. Buying online has its conveniences and you don't have to go downtown and fight traffic.

About the Author: Keith Nivon is an avid Harley Davidson Motorcycle Enthusiast! His website contains information on all things Harley Davidson. http://www.everything-harley-davidson.com is a great article resource for anyone who shares a passion for Harley Davidson Motorcycles.

Source: www.isnare.com

Motorcycle Shipping. by

Is motorcycle shipping any different to car shipping?There are quite a few main differences between car shipping and motorcycle shipping. While a car has a reliable handbrake and four wheels for extra stability a motorcycle is quite different by design and has only two wheels with nothing to keep the bike stationery apart from the stand. You might think that motorcycle shipping would be cheaper than car shipping because of the difference in size of vehicles but this is rarely the case. The closed carriers that are often used should be specially designed to carry motorcycles and this will mean that there will either be palettes specially designed for the purpose of motorcycle shipping or there will be specially fitted tracks that serve the same purpose. What this means is that a motorcycle basically takes up the same room as a car when it needs to be shipped anywhere.How expensive is motorcycle shipping?This is dependant on two main factors. How far you are travelling and what services the company you intend to use has to offer. There are a variety of different services that a shipping company can offer you and you would be better using a specialist motorcycle shipper than a car shipper that offers motorcycle shipping as an extra service.The further you are travelling and the more services you require the higher the price is likely to be, but you will receive a discount from the right company if you are transporting more than one motorbike so do shop around and check any quotes you receive carefully.Is motorcycle shipping safe?A reputable specialist motorcycle shipping company will know exactly what they are doing with your bike. Many companies employ motorbike enthusiasts and owners to drive the carriers so you can be sure that the driver knows how much your motorbike means to you. This isn’t to say there isn’t the occasional accident, it’s only to be expected when transporting vehicles across long distance.A good shipping company will include some insurance with your quote and will try their utmost to ensure that nothing does go wrong. While the Insurance will cover you for scratches and careless damage by the shipping company it is unlikely to cover for ‘acts of god’ like the ship sinking or damage due to rough waters. If you’re especially worried about this, either because of the time of year, the expected weather or simply because you are transporting your pride and joy you can buy extra Insurance that covers for virtually any eventuality and your shipping company should be able to offer you a little advice on the relevant policies.

About the Author

For more more information about motorcycle shipping please visit www.vehicle-shipping-tips.com