en-us Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:43:43 -0500 ATM@msgroup.org 60 All Things Motorcycle - Motorcycle Safety http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/ All Things Motorcycle for Guest http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/ http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/rss_32.png All Things Motorcycle RSS Feed 144 47 General Discussion - Houston source for blue reflective tape?Axiom2000http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11101&REPLY_ID=107923General Discussion Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:48:29 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11101 Take a look.


http://www.reflectivelyyours.com/]]>Sharing of Lessons Learned - Gas nozzle at some pumps hinder refillHouse_of_Dexterhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11063&REPLY_ID=107922Sharing of Lessons Learned Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:22:41 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11063
quote:
Originally posted by bluremi

I'm confused: what's wrong with putting the gas nozzle just below the level of the gas tank port and watching the gas level rise in your tank? I've been doing this since day 1 and have had no spillage or anything even close to an accident.

Am I unwittingly doing something dangerous?
I've notice around here in the Dallas area...Shell stations have vapor boots that have to be pushed back to engage the pump. If you use the McCuff you don't have to hold the vapor boot back with your hand as you pump.]]>General Discussion - Narrow track vehicles.Indiana Randyhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11097&REPLY_ID=107919General Discussion Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:41:11 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11097 I hope I live long enough for these to become popular and common.

I love the concept. I wonder how they perform in the rain? In the snow? In 110 degree desert heat?]]>Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS - Crash contributes to advancement in medical science.gymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11107Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:36:49 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11107 http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepag...SS&ATTR=News[:u]]]>Technical/Maintenance - Sound voice box on my Aero keeps draining my batt!!! Help!!!scottrnelsonhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11106&REPLY_ID=107917Technical/Maintenance Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:27:44 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11106 You should be looking for the original wires and follow them all the way back to wherever they were connected, then remove them there.

Separately, get a Battery Tender to keep your battery topped off.]]>General Discussion - Something seems wrong here.gymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11098&REPLY_ID=107916General Discussion Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:27:20 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11098 This may help clarify the context of my original topic and comment.http://tip.psychology.org/bandura.html

I question if it is possible to train effective warriors to be tame warriors. There is little doubt in my mind that is possible to train effective warriors to be disciplined warriors and that the one is nearly impossible without the other.]]>Technical/Maintenance - Tire Pressuregymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11040&REPLY_ID=107913Technical/Maintenance Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:42:01 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11040 Scott, Bachman. You guys are spot on as regards the need for "an aftermarket tire guide for motorcycles". Every time I need tires for my car or truck I go online and check out the latest reviews, check owners forums, and make my final decisions. Buying replacement tires for my motorcycles is a far more nebulous process and involves a certain reliance on the reputation of the manufacturer, personal experience, guesswork, and the patterns chicken entrails.

It is not too difficult to locate manufacturer data on the internet, however applying that data to a specific motorcycle make model and year is often next to impossible. Add in factors such as the motorcycle gross (loaded) weight, tire wear considerations and so forth and making a good selection (let alone the best selection) gets even tougher. Comparing possible tire choices across various manufacturers and model data is a fairly random process.

Perhaps the popular motorcycle publications are too dependent on their advertisers to risk alienating any of them with a good objective examination of the the subject.

]]>Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS - Motorcycle T-bones bicycleJames R. Davishttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11105Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:11:45 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11105
A bicyclist was riding in the left track of the lane on a two-lane (one in each direction) roadway and was being followed by a motorcyclist who decided to pass him on the right. That was just when the bicyclist made a right turn onto a side street and, of course, the motorcyclist T-boned his bike.

The bicycle, as you would expect, was totaled. Its rider was thrown 20 feet and suffered some serious road rash and bruises.

The motorcyclist died at the scene.

Guess which rider was wearing a helmet.
]]>Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS - What next?scottrnelsonhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11104&REPLY_ID=107902Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:23:36 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11104 If you look under the photo on the left side, there are seven little photos underneath. Move your cursor under them and they'll replace the larger photo. The first three show the Laptop Steering Wheel Desk in action, then the next four show huge pileups with many, many wrecked vehicles. I wonder if they're hinting that you, too, could cause a large wreck by using the product. [:x)]]]>General Discussion - Some thoughts regarding Inflatable protectionjbalderrhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11102General Discussion Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:55:47 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11102
Something that comes immediately to mind are the auto-inflatable Personal Flotation devices that some sailors wear. There are pros and cons and I expect the same for these new Air Jackets.

First, maintenance. The CO2 cartridges sometimes become unscrewed. The firing mechanism itself can be compromised due to exposure to dampness.

Second, defects. Some have recalled their PFD's because they don't inflate properly.

Third, I wonder about quality and regulatory oversight.

The one nice thing about cushion PFD's is that I know that they will work by just looking at them.]]>Safety Gear - Educate me on pantsvivid dadashttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11084&REPLY_ID=107895Safety Gear Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:52:56 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11084 The Olympia pants are too long for me when I'm standing up or walking around, but just right on the motorcycle. (meaning the knee armour is over my knees where it should be.) The pants are made so that they can be altered without messing up the zippers.

The one thing for me is they need to be "pulled up" sorta of Urkel style, and I use meta-aftermarker suspenders I bought at the farm store.]]>Technical/Maintenance - New to biking... learning the ropesVstar_Markushttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11091&REPLY_ID=107891Technical/Maintenance Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:36:37 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11091 This is all great information. Thank you very much for taking the time and helping a new rider out!

- Mark]]>General Discussion - Air bag jacket in MotoGPscottrnelsonhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10738&REPLY_ID=107886General Discussion Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:03:38 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10738
quote:
Originally posted by Stevebr242

Seems like the Dainese suit is a lot more sophisticated than the tethered airbag jackets.

http://roadracingworld.com/news/art...rticle=38741
So now you have to wonder if they could make it so that it was capable of going off a second and maybe even a third time. It would have to detect that it had deflated before rearming.

I have much more confidence in a company like Dainese to protect riders than I do with some of the first companies to come out with airbag jackets.]]>Campfire chat - Cold weather ridingkoolskinshttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10953&REPLY_ID=107879Campfire chat Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:34:40 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10953 Last year I discovered the FirstGear one-piece, thermal, waterproof suit and proceeded to ride all winter long in the Philadelphia area down to temperatures hovering around zero degrees. Even more impressive is I'm usually only wearing gym shorts and a tee-shirt under the suit as it works better when your body heat can flow freely within the suit. I've ridden in this suit during rain based nor'easters and can also attest to the waterproof capabilities. This suit is absolutely phenomenal and was the best $180 I ever spent for motorcycle related gear. The only downside is that anything over 35-40 degrees outside and you'll find the suit too efficient. I also installed heated grips on the ride as they are easier to deal with then the heated gloves with the wiring issues and the heated grips work well enough. I ride all year, rain or shine, unless there is snow, ice or salt on the highways.]]>Technical/Maintenance - Yamaha V=Star 1100 Informationcooldadof4http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11099Technical/Maintenance Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:28:26 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11099
http://www.sloneservices.com/Silver...1100-FAQ.htm

Regards,

Don]]>Sharing of Lessons Learned - Space=Time=Less TensionHouse_of_Dexterhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11095&REPLY_ID=107878Sharing of Lessons Learned Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:43:46 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11095 I add an extra second...because I know I'm probably counting to fast...]]>Campfire chat - '87 Wingscottrnelsonhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11096&REPLY_ID=107871Campfire chat Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:28:46 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11096 What works for me when I get another bike is to ride the new one exclusively for a while until I'm used to it. Then I'll go back to the other one, which will often feel strange to me. But after switching back and forth a few dozen times I can then switch bikes and almost immediately adjust to the differences.]]>General Discussion - Riding efficiency - long distance ridinggalileohttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11094&REPLY_ID=107867General Discussion Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:28:39 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11094
quote:
Originally posted by rayg50

quote:

... One close call can shave hundreds of miles off one's endurance ...

What toll does bad weather take on endurance?



I find riding in rain to be relaxing as long as it's not too hard. It doesn't seem to have any effect on fatigue rate. Snow brings me to a stop. Wind doesn't seem to bother me at all. If anything stops me for a few hours, I just take a nap and readjust my plans if necessary. I've never riden in temperatures over 113, but up to there, I find it no problem. I have a core cooler which makes it feel like I'm wearing a swamp cooler under my suit. Cold temperatures down to the single digits aren't a problem as I have good heated gear.

Last year, I did cut a day short because of threatening fog and it was getting dark. Then at the other end, I stopped early because of thunderstorms ahead of me. What was supposed to be a 2 day trip ended up being a couple hours into 3 days. The year before, I set out on a 2,400 mile, 4 day ride and got stopped 74 miles from home by a freak snowstorm. The next day, I went home. Sometimes one has to have the maturity to realize a ride isn't working out and just try it another time.

From the context of my meaning when I said that a close call can reduce endurance, bad weather can have an effect, but not in the same sense as when one gets an adrenaline rush from a close call.

]]>General Discussion - Rocket almost T-Bonedjheberthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11087&REPLY_ID=107858General Discussion Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:52:52 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11087 I would suggest that whenever you see a gap in stopped traffic, assume that something is about to drive or walk through it, even if the gap appears where there doesn't seem to be a driveway or side street.

27 years of driving cars and trucks has taught me an important lesson: any behavior that other drivers don't expect puts you at a much greater risk of having an accident.]]>Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS - Maintaining Minimum 2 Second Rulehaithabuhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11089&REPLY_ID=107855Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:28:24 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11089 dhalen32
quote:
It seems that current thinking has our hands at 8 and 4 o'clock (or 7 and 5) rather than 10 and 2 or 9 and 3 as I learned many moons ago.


I learned the 9 & 3:00 in driver's ed way back when and my father promptly retrained me to use the current grip. Works way better when you're pulling a trailer. The high grip tends to amplify trailer sway while the low grip dampens it.]]>Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS - Tumbling dicehaithabuhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10980&REPLY_ID=107849Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:44:44 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10980 Thank you Paul. I'm not immune from making mistakes, but I try not to make the same mistake twice!]]>Campfire chat - Up (Ohio) River Without PaddleJames R. Davishttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11049&REPLY_ID=107847Campfire chat Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:27:07 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11049 This is certainly one of the big reasons we ride: to have great stories to tell! Glad your day was "challenging" and not a disaster. You must have had to bite your tongue about the fourth time you heard, "You can't stay here."


]]>Sharing of Lessons Learned - Toolbooth = deathtrapRichC10http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11090&REPLY_ID=107845Sharing of Lessons Learned Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:41:59 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11090
quote:
Originally posted by MattInFla

I am keeping an eye on him in the mirror as I slow for the tool lane. Sure enough, he's not slowing, and is closing on my read end quite quickly.


Just a reminder, we really need to check the rear view every time we slow. A few weeks ago I was riding in the left lane of one of our major roads, approaching a red light. There was a car in the right lane going about the same speed, about 55mph. For some reason there was a line of traffic stopped in the right lane, none in the left. I began to slow so as to have a margin of safety if anyone pulled out from the right lane to the left, but the car didn't slow at all. It felt pretty helpless watching this guy barreling towards a stopped van at 55, but at the last moment he woke up/dropped his cell phone. He had plenty of time and space to serve around the van, but he just locked the wheels and ended up with a fairly light impact. That impact would still have resulted in serious injury or death if it were a motorcycle he hit instead of a van.
I check the rear view mirror much more now, every time I slow.....]]>Sharing of Lessons Learned - Are you being followed?Daddiohttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11086&REPLY_ID=107826Sharing of Lessons Learned Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:53:47 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11086 Welcome back Capt - I sense a bit of experience in this thread. Me - I am Mr. Anonymous. I don't tend to make folks mad at me. Sounds like you have been followed to purpose. I do take notice of patterns. I would notice the "Yellow Gremlin". Your avoidance tips are useful. I will be passing this to Mommio and three daughters. I will not leave out my son.

Glad to see you back!



]]>General Discussion - Life cycles of the motorcycle business.gymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11085&REPLY_ID=107817General Discussion Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:43:25 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11085 Midlife, good point about the used motorcycle buyer. The motorcycle industry consists of far more than the production of new vehicles. First, new vehicles are not sold to the public, as is commonly believed by most people, the new vehicles are sold to dealers who resell them to the public.

The used vehicle segment of the market is rapidly becoming a critical as well as major "profit center" for the dealers through the sale of the trade ins which fueled a significant portion of new bike sales, consignments, and the sale of repossessed bikes and bikes purchased at auctions for resale. Additional profit centers for dealers that are affected by the used bike market include Parts and accessories, F&I (Finance and Insurance sales), clothing and protective gear, rentals, and what I shall term "enthusiast support services" which build dealership loyalty.

While person to person sales make up a portion of used bike sales overall, the bikes involved in such transactions tend to be made of of older, often obsolete bikes that the dealerships would rather not spend time or floorspace on. The dividing line between a bike that a buyer can pay cash for or needs financing for will vary with individual circumstances.

The sale of $500 dollar motorcycles will not support a multi-million dollar dealership operation with monthly overhead expenses that may easily exceed $1,000,000 while the sale of a $4,000 or $5,000 bike does contribute to the bottom line. The contribution of a $2 or 3,000 dollar sale is marginal. The sale of $20,000 motorcycles is more closely aligned to the marketing of "Leisure Products" than basic needs and as economic times change and the interests of various demographic groups shift with emerging technologies and circumstances those manufactures (and dealers) that position themselves properly may succeed and those that err will eventually become extinct. The availability of credit is a major issue for the motorcycle industry as well as motorcycle purchasers at this time and for the foreseeable future.

A further "joker in the deck" for the motorcyclist and the motorcycle industry as a whole is the possibility of "mandatory health insurance coverage" which could effect significant change on may aspects of motorcycling as we currently know it.]]>General Discussion - seeking advice on newer bigger bikegalileohttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11067&REPLY_ID=107811General Discussion Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:12:16 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11067 The best direction to move isn't always bigger. Sometimes smaller is better. I sort of inherited a Yamaha Majesty 400. Yes, a scooter. Surprisingly, for a single rider, it's quite capable and comfortable. It also has great range and I can go 200 miles between fillups. Maintenance is simple to do yourself. Oil changes take about 10 minutes. Valves only need adjusted every 26,000 mile. Tires last about 14,000 miles. I can carry everything I need for a tour under the seat.

In the past 6 weeks, I've put about 4,000 miles on it and it will do anything legal without a problem.

I like it so much, I'm going to use it for a 48 state tour this summer.

]]>General Discussion - My new bikejhaakehttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11081&REPLY_ID=107810General Discussion Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:55:48 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11081 I'm a much newer biker than yourself, 2008 being my first season. I started out with a Honda Nighthawk CB250 and I'm 6'4" and 250 pounds. The nighthawk was/is great -- I even commuted two-up with my wife on the freeway -- my maximum speed with my wife as about 65 mph -- full throttle and given sufficient time. Solo and perfect conditions (flat smooth freeway - no wind - straight - laying down on the tank) I could hit 76 mph. I thought I was pretty safe.

This season I got myself a Suzuki DL650 V-Strom (kept the Honda 250) and all I can say is WOW. I didn't realize how risky that 250 was. The 650 really put it into perspective. Being on the freeway on the 250 without any acceleration left is a dangerous proposition. I now use the 250 for local grocery shopping and puttering around my small town.

I tend to cruise at much higher speeds than you, but the larger bike was a good move for me. My wife feels much safer now too.]]>Physics and the theoretical - Question about centrifugal forceJames R. Davishttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11082&REPLY_ID=107800Physics and the theoretical Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:34:58 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11082 Centrifugal force is as real a force as any other. It IS an inertial force, as you say. Though it feels like it is pushing you 'outward', it is actually, again as you say, simply trying to keep you moving in the same direction you were in before turning.]]>Technical/Maintenance - Oil leak on V Star 650WarHawkhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10996&REPLY_ID=107799Technical/Maintenance Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:11 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10996
quote:
Originally posted by tim.vstar650

Oil leak resolved!

The cover holding the oil filter in place was slightly warped, the shop ground down the plate a little bit and that has resolved the issue. They also re-did one of the center screws holding the cover on that was starting to strip out. So all is well and there is no oil leak anymore.

Thanks for everyone's feedback and advise - I did appreciate it!

Tim


Yah..those things are light weight and require a slight torque, the head from the engine will make the metal expand and the "torque" stretch magically increases...imagine if you ran them down to alot more than max and when the engine heats it stress fractures or warpage.]]>Rider Training Courses - Does anyone get kicked out of BRC?Night Trainhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10696&REPLY_ID=107792Rider Training Courses Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:12:19 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10696 Jguynn, I didn't want to impart a "paranoid mindset", just wanted to keep your feet on the ground before you spread your wings too soon[;^)] The braking and obstacle avoidance workshop sounds interesting. Would like to hear about it once you've taken it.
]]>General Discussion - I give up trying to influence....Texasphotographerhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11070&REPLY_ID=107790General Discussion Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:08:39 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11070
quote:
Originally posted by radan2

It is important to remember the continuing influence of a good example. I have noticed that many riders who at first deride ATGATT slowly begin to come around to better safety gear with experience. Having a few acquaintances who die or suffer painful injuries opens eyes of those who are not in accidents themselves. But if they have never seen ATGATT, how do they know what real safety gear looks like?



Jim, that is an excellent point. I am alive today because I wore a properly fitting full face helmet. Although I rolled 4 times on the ground after hitting a deer, my face and head received no injuries or scratches. I also had tall heavy leather boots on and did receive a severe ankle sprain. Had I worn my armored jacket and protective trousers, I may not have broken my shoulder or cracked 5 ribs not to mention a punctured elbow and lots of road rash.

I have learned my lesson the hard way, but I am here to try again the correct way.]]>Safety Gear - Discounts on First Gear Jacketsscottrnelsonhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11075&REPLY_ID=107783Safety Gear Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:04:13 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11075
quote:
Originally posted by scottrnelson

http://www.newenough.com/protective..._jacket.html

$109 if you pick the right color.

I bought one for colder weather riding and am now using it regularly.
I've been using my First Gear Kilimanjaro jacket for the past few weeks, without the internal liner, and it's been a bit cool on 45-50 degree mornings. I decided that since I no longer had the issue of feeling too warm in the jacket anymore, it was time to put the warmer liner back into the jacket.

I rode to work this morning with the frost on everything and my thermometer showing 34 degrees. The jacket did a good job of keeping me warm for the two mile ride. My gloves could have been warmer and I should have put on my First Gear riding pants to keep my legs warm, but everything covered by the jacket was warm enough. This tells me that I have all of the right riding gear for cold weather riding with the exception of warm gloves.

The above link is a great deal on a textile riding jacket that works well for temperatures between 30 and 90 degrees.]]>Technical/Maintenance - Forks questiondhalen32http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11079&REPLY_ID=107781Technical/Maintenance Mon, 16 Nov 2009 06:13:09 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11079 Hawk:
Like Scott, I would recommend asking your question first on a Hawk GT and then a CBR 600 forum to understand the differences in models years and their front end hardware. I also assume that F2, F3 and F4 which you refer to are a succession of models in the CBR 600 line of Honda supersport machines. I believe you will find that going from F2 to F4 that the fork tube diameters get larger and the later models even have what are called upside down or inverted forks. You will likely need to change triple clamps (and perhaps more) to make any of these changes. I assume that part of the reason to make the swap is to go from the single disc Hawk front braking system to the twin disc CBR system so you will also need to deal with replacing a master cylinder and adding brake plumbing. You can likley find all of this information on a race oriented Hawk GT forum. Good luck!
Dave
]]>Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS - Lost an internet friend today - moderator of another forum I followbachman1961http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11080&REPLY_ID=107777Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:44:48 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11080
Sad news John, my thoughts are with you and that of his family and the community that he has influenced.

In a day and age when we are so 'teleported' by technology, I am reminded that my early memories are that of a close-nit family and friends that all enjoyed sharing our time together doing things of common interest such as motorcycling. Life has become 'busy' and we are often far off the path of spending as much time with these others, yet the technology does mend the fences a bit and I appreciate what would otherwise be a broken link in these connections ... the extended network of family and friends by sites like this.

~brian]]>Roadcraft - Differences Motorcycle vs. TrikeThe Meromorphhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11074&REPLY_ID=107776Roadcraft Sun, 15 Nov 2009 22:06:43 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11074 There are also some add-on kits that deploy outrigger wheels only at slow speeds (say under 15-20 mph) They are, I think only available on relatively few bikes, Gold Wings, some of the large Harleys that I know of for sure. They essentailly retain all the characteristics of the motorcycle, but allow people who cannot hold up the bike at slow speed or a standstill to continue to ride safely.
When that time comes for me, that's what I'll get... [:)]

Edited to add reference...

http://msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic...rms=disabled]]>Safety Gear - Motoport Kevlar GearThe Meromorphhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11036&REPLY_ID=107774Safety Gear Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:43:15 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11036 Also be aware that Motoport makes both Mesh Kevlar (as described in the WebBikeWorld articl)e, and Stretch Kevlar. I have read a report by one guy that his wife bought the mesh Kevlar suit, and he was so impressed he went to buy one, but chose the Stretch Kevlar instead. His was so much more comfortable, that when his wife checked it out, she made him buy her a Stretch Kevlar suit as well... [88].]]>General Discussion - PLP stopsscottrnelsonhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11019&REPLY_ID=107768General Discussion Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:46:20 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11019
quote:
Originally posted by Texasphotographer

If you are looking for a very light weight helmet and one that provides marvellous head and face protection I strongly recommend the Shoei RF1000. This is the 2nd lightest weight full face helmet on the market that I found. It is about $300 less than the lightest one.
Be aware the the RF1100 is now out for a similar price, and it's a little bit lighter than the RF1000 (although there seem to be some discount prices on the remaining RF1000 helmest now).]]>General Discussion - Got back on the bike yesterdayalblancherhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11069&REPLY_ID=107750General Discussion Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:42:13 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11069 You know sometimes I miss the obvious.

PLP is where I should begin. Along with the rest of you I always recommended PLP be part of rider's continuing education. If there was ever a time I should take this advice it is now. It may be overkill but I think I will reread the BRC and ERC literature, practice the skills detailed in them, look back over Hough's books and spend some time rebuilding my confidence.

I am still concerned about what caused the accident and I do not know if I will ever be really comfortable on the bike until I nail it down and address it. I do and will continue to monitor my blood sugar, especially before a ride and during longer rides. I will try to be more conscious of where my head is during a ride. If I become "day dreamy" it's time to pull off and make an assessment of my frame of mind.

Thanks again my friends,

time to cutup the hogshead cheese and warm up the gumbo. The Saints are on TV in a couple of hours.]]>Safety Gear - Battery Terminal Problem-Heated GearNieborhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11077&REPLY_ID=107767Safety Gear Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:35:35 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11077 If the battery lug is the correct size, not a defect, a simple cathodic issue. Two reasons, OK, three including overfill, incompatible metals and loose connections. As far as incompatible materials, it's perfectly normal for materials that don't get along well to exist in a battery environment. Acids, liquid and vapor, take their toll on many metals, as does water and salts. There are many products designed specifically to inhibit corrosion. You may find only slightly less opinions in this area than asking the "whats the right oil to use" question. [:D]

How to prevent it? First, make sure all connections are sized properly for the post and have clean metal-to-metal contact. Make sure they are tight, not macho-man tight, but considerably more than too-small a phillips screwdriver is capable of. Then use a good anti-corrosion coating system. I like the brush applied coating from Permatex, YMMV.

Inspect those connections periodically, at least every six months or so. Repeat the drill above for any exceptions. My experience suggests the coatings need to be reapplied every couple years. More so in the first, and last years of battery life.]]>General Discussion - Do not think there is a best time to rideScooter riderhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11073&REPLY_ID=107765General Discussion Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:01:49 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11073 This is tough one hunters an bringing in crops can have them moving
any time of the day. The noise makers they sell don,t work.
After the crops are in an hunting season is over things should settle
down. An with crops in you will have a better chance of seeing them

The only thing I have found that seems to work is a hunting license.
An it only works during hunting season with that in my pocket an a deer tag.
There is not a deer to be found.
A day after hunting season
There will be five of throes over sized road rats in my back yard[:u][:D]


]]>Technical/Maintenance - 1982 Yamaha Maxim xj750 dies!Nieborhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11024&REPLY_ID=107764Technical/Maintenance Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:25:26 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11024
quote:
Originally posted by Multi-Bike
I dont know if its coincidental or not but the first time we took the seat off and tapped or bumped on and around the ignitor, rectifier, fuse box area and it starts then. The second time I just tapped around the side cover again and it started, I ask earlier with no answer but what does the ignitor do? I dont know if it is the ignitor or not but I believe that is a CDI box which are usually the brains. Maybe? Maybe not?

I guess I'm leaning away from the coil. You can usually attribute intermittant behavior to either higher temperatures or moisture. I'm not hearing that.

I am hearing two for two taps, thumps, whatever, that resulted in restart were in the same area. Not quite a pattern, but clearly a hint. I'm thinking maybe you missed one? [;)]

Hint: Often when a wire fails, the insulation remains intact. Lightly tug on a length, watch for any movement, especially at connectors and bends. Lose any corrosion, retention the female connector to make a nice tight connection. Add a little no-ox if available, if not Vaseline will do. Position all connections so that any moisture that does sneak in, drains immediately.]]>Roadcraft - Great Advicegymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11076&REPLY_ID=107759Roadcraft Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:41:45 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11076 Riding a motorcycle or operating any other type of vehicle which requires guidance and tracking inputs for control requires optimum physical conditioning and performance. By "optimum" I mean performance that is adequate to perform the task without without overloading a persons capacity or capability to perform and respond to contingencies which can be foreseen as a normal or expected.

Most people never reach their maximum physiological capacity and our normal lifestyles in modern society do not require us to reach and then maintain our maximum physiological capabilities throughout our lifetimes. As we grow older and more sedentary our strength and eventually our sense of balance wanes. By the time the average person reaches their 60s they not only are far heavier than they were than when in their twenties, they are weaker, slower to react, and their sense of balance and spatial orientation are significantly diminished. A persons ability to withstand the effects of given G loading and peak impact loadings without injury are greatly reduced and the probability of significant or disabling injury increases.

Fortunately there is a way to overcome the inevitable negative effects of aging and it's effects on our physiological status and ability to participate in the activities that give our lives adventure and meaning. The most important single element of overcoming the ravages of the ailing process is a structured program of regular physical exercise designed to rehabilitate weakness and optimize the physiological capability that an individual possesses regardless of their age. The program is ideally structured for the maximum stresses on is subjected to.

If one is going to be a rider one should develop a routine of training activities that that develops optimum balance, upper body, core and leg strength. Three one hour sessions a week in the gym should be sufficient to improve and maintain ones level of fitness to ride a motorcycle.

If a persons feel that the demands of a regular exercise program are beyond their capacity, they should not consider riding a motorcycle in my opinion. My friend George Hery (Google "George Hery Performs")is 75 years old and regularly exercises on the Trampoline and can still perform triple twisting somersaults however he is not nearly as resistant to injury as when he was younger and stronger. He cannot walk comfortably for long distances as a result of injuries to his feet from tumbling on concrete. He compensates for his previous injuries and "disabilities" by controlling his exposure to the level of activity and physiological stress that he once took in stride and by exercising intelligently and often.

Motorcycles are extremely deceptive in that virtually everyone that can get one in motion finds it extremely easy to twist the throttle with minimal physical effort. All to often that twisting of the throttle results in a situation where the right hand has written a check that our body has insufficient reserves to cash.

]]>Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS - Deer, Bike, Michigan, againbachman1961http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11071&REPLY_ID=107738Motorcycle Accident Reports - WITH COMMENTS Sun, 15 Nov 2009 02:58:27 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11071
That Thumb area was 1/3 of my sales/service area from '84 through '92 .. pretty country, wide open and begs for speed. Deer country in those days was to my north as Standish, Gladwin or Au Gres.
My biggest Thumb fear was the bumpkins that would occasionally blow stop signs (and at pretty impressive speeds).
Never had the opportunity to ride a cycle out in those parts but the ride up through Caseville - Pt Austin and over by Harbor Beach is peppered with great scenery and nice town-folk. Michigan has a great network of Hospitals. I hope the rider fairs well in his recovery.

~brian

]]>Safety Gear - SPOT discountgalileohttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11072Safety Gear Sat, 14 Nov 2009 19:56:16 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11072
http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/f...php?t=252137

With the pricing, it amounts to about 6 months of free tracking.

Personally, I like SPOT. I'm not associated with the company in any way. I just consider it a great safety device.]]>General Discussion - New RiderSilver Girlhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10934&REPLY_ID=107728General Discussion Sat, 14 Nov 2009 19:04:50 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10934 I have just finished my first riding season and can certainly relate to your challenges Carolfay. I too am an R.N. and b/c I work in Health Promotion and Injury Prevention, like you, I was pretty scared the first few rides on my bike. I took the safety course last August and got my bike this Spring. The safety course was one of the most challenging things I have done physically and emotionally since labour and delivery! I was nicknamed "Crash" (one incident involved me crashing into my classmates) so that tells you all. But I forced myself to go back every day b/c I'm not a quitter.

My experiences in the course also contributed to my nervousness when I got my bike. This is what has really helped me gain confidence and skill:
  • Lots and lots of PLP especially #249 & 194. Once I mastered the clutch and throttle, I wasn't afraid to go anywhere that required slow speed maneuvering. So kudos to you for recognizing that you're not ready for the road. I drive a standard car but that didn't help with learning to ride. A bike is a different animal!

  • Leave the boyfriend at home! My husband was absolutely useless for mentoring me. He was impatient and couldn't explain anything ("Duh. I just do it...") and made me feel stupid. Granted I'm the type that thinks things through - alot - but that's how I'm hardwired. He thinks I'm crazy doing PLP and following Ride Like A Pro and reading other helpful literature including this forum. I rode twice with my husband and then rode solo. That way I could "ride my own ride" (as someone already mentionned). Very important! I actually prefer solo riding now!

  • Keep at it! One day you'll just get it! It took me til my 7th ride before I felt that I WAS born to ride. Then the smile and the tears of joy came...

  • Again...RIDE YOUR OWN RIDE...trust your intuition...us women are gifted with that...use it!
]]>General Discussion - Deer avoidance equipmentbachman1961http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11066&REPLY_ID=107695General Discussion Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:45:19 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11066
I agree with the others here. Those things come by various names but I'll grant you the XP3 Hornet may just take the cool name prize. [:D]

You are better off with out since they may provide you some subconscious level of security that does not exist.

Your concern regarding deer and other migrating varmints is an very valid one for sure!

If not commuting most of the time, consider adjusting your time of day for riding. This is something pretty commonly used by those that ride for recreation and have options to mitigate hazards by route, weather and time of day or traffic conditions.

BTW ... Greywolf covers the essentials pretty well on this one; moderating speed, good braking skills and interference where practical.

~brian

]]>General Discussion - Owners of bikes and pickup trucks seem to have issues navigating curves...Razzoohttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11064&REPLY_ID=107690General Discussion Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:52:26 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11064
quote:


Just wondering out loud, how many of the "lost control" wrecks, were caused by speeding?

I once read, that anyone can ride/drive in a straight line, it takes skill to turn



The major contributing factors in crashes overall are following too closely or failure to yield, in comparison fatal crashes more often involve driver lost control or speed.

Following too close - this entirely up to the biker, you can't blame anyone else, it's completely under the biker's control.

Driver lost control or speed. -- As you mention, most likely they were just going too fast for their ability -- again this is completely under the biker's control. The easy answer is don't speed or go too fast for the turn - however not all rural roads have speeds marked on the turns.

What is unfortunate is there is the possibility that if the rider had more skill they might have been able to make the corner. There are flight simulators and auto racing simulators but no simulation or trainer that I am aware of for bikes and cornering. Track time might help, but even so if you exceed your capability at the track you still crash. The difference is that if you were in full leathers and there were no fixed objects to hit it would most likely not be fatal - (just thinking out loud).

It's a conundrum...




]]>Campfire chat - Illinois Driver Hits Two Deer in 10 MinutesNieborhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11055&REPLY_ID=107688Campfire chat Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:29:07 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11055 Scan well, master braking skills, ride at speeds you can stop witnin sight distance.

Swerves fall into the gotcha category as a bambi avoidance maneuver. [;)]]]>General Discussion - A plea for helpangieorrhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10902&REPLY_ID=107670General Discussion Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:24:32 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10902 Thanks, Axiom, for the gentle friendly reminder about James' graciousness in hosting this website for all of us. Donation made and I must say, I get a lot of bang for my buck here!]]>Trip Reports - My first trip of a lifetimeananga73http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10600&REPLY_ID=107668Trip Reports Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:15:07 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10600 Never head back from Leaky about the trip. Or perhaps did he document it elsewhere?]]>