*All Things Motorcycle* - General Discussion

en-us Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:22:33 -0500 ATM@msgroup.org 60 *All Things Motorcycle* - General Discussion 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 - A close call tonighthaithabuhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12239&REPLY_ID=117212General Discussion Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:41:53 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12239 Had a sudden flat with a tube tire (rear) back in the 70's. Riding on at any speed was not an option, not even with easy inputs (the bike was providing violent inputs of its own). I steered in the direction of travel as the bike flipped from left to right and back again, but it was very close to the steering lock. I considered myself lucky just to make it to the shoulder in one piece.]]>General Discussion - Dropped my bike tonight! 1st time on Ultracapozzirhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12218&REPLY_ID=117211General Discussion Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:36:57 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12218

quote:
Originally posted by bkikkert

There are very few people, experienced or not, that have not dropped a large touring bike either stopped or during a slow speed maneuver and especially two-up loaded with luggage. Those that say they have never dropped a touring bike are either little white fibbers or olympic weight lifters. [:D]

Well, I ride an GL1800 Goldwing which I guess qualifies as a "large" touring bike. I'm definately not an olympic weight lifter at 5'5" and 125lbs. I don't consider myself a fibber in this reguard either. So far after 1.5 years and 38k miles of ownership and doing mostly 2 up touring fully loaded with a luggage platform on the back, I haven't dropped it (knock on wood).

I have never "dropped" a bike. Had one roll of the kick stand while it was idling in the driveway but I wasn't on it at the time. [B)]

I have wrecked twice, on two different bikes (18 years ago now and one was on a race track). Since then, I've kept it rubber side down. I'll keep eating my wheaties and petting my rabbit's foot. [8D]]]>General Discussion - Birthdays and grandkids...twchttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12240&REPLY_ID=117208General Discussion Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:32:50 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12240

quote:
Originally posted by scottrnelson

My own opinion is that you should get a dirt bike too and go ride with him.Look at this as a good opportunity for you to do more riding and to participate in an activity that your son will enjoy too.

I have to admit that I like Scott's suggestion, but...

My first reaction to this post was incredulity that a grandparent would purchase something like this for a grandchild without first speaking to the parents, even if the parents and grandparents are all bikers.

We are all aware that riding motorcycles carries with it some risk, and we each accept that risk as part of motorcycle riding. A child of ten is not yet capable of making an informed decision about those risks; the parent must be part of the process. A grandparent is not a parent and has no right to make that decision on behalf of the parents.

Yes, I am a grandparent.
]]>General Discussion - California moves on Loud Pipesrkfirehttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12230&REPLY_ID=117198General Discussion Thu, 02 Sep 2010 06:29:37 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12230 Ray, that was the regulation that I was asking about. It simply requires the EPA stamp on the muffler.

Vance & Hines now has at least one aftermarket exhaust with EPA certification. Maybe laws like the NYC version would create an incentive to the aftermarket companies to make legal mufflers.

Right now, it's a sort of wink wink, this system is made for "offroad racing". I noticed CherryBomb running a TV ad lately that says "disturbing the peace since 1965?".]]>General Discussion - Air bag jacket in MotoGPgymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10738&REPLY_ID=117180General Discussion Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:46:19 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10738 Gary, searching around the internet yields little in the way of new developments or news pertaining to "motorcycle airbag jackets". Here is a link to a search http://www.google.com/search?q=+mot...nt=firefox-a]]>General Discussion - Co-worker showing signs...Scamperhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12232&REPLY_ID=117154General Discussion Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:44:45 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12232

quote:
Originally posted by tusome

http://savealifetour.net/motorcycle.htm

That is one brutal video. Very graphic.]]>General Discussion - AMA Lobbying PowerCaptCrashhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12236&REPLY_ID=117136General Discussion Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:05:53 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12236 AMA position paper:

http://www.amadirectlink.com/legisl...ns/sound.asp

Executive summary: AMA does NOT like loud bikes...but thinks we should solve our own problems.]]>General Discussion - Once a rider, always a rider?scottrnelsonhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12234&REPLY_ID=117130General Discussion Tue, 31 Aug 2010 21:19:56 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12234 I gave up motorcycles for about nine years while raising my kids. But I missed riding and got back into it and realize that I have to ride regularly. You can always go with dirt bikes and ride with your kids once they're old enough to ride a bicycle without training wheels. Some people put training wheels on the little motorcycles, but I've never thought much of doing that.

Once the kids hit their teens until about when they get a drivers license, you can get them to do a lot of chores and behave themselves for the opportunity to go riding. And it's a lot of fun for everyone. And if they eventually decide that they want to ride on the street, they'll already be very good riders, so you won't have to worry about them being able to control a motorcycle on the street - only controlling themselves.]]>General Discussion - Right foot or left foot on the ground and turning from a stopAlabusahttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12206&REPLY_ID=117121General Discussion Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:47:54 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12206 Riding solo, left foot only goes down. Riding 2up, I use both feet to a complete stop then right foot back on the peg. Unless the stop is on a hill then the right never leaves the rear brake. When starting from a stop, before the tires make the first revolution both feet are on the pegs.]]>General Discussion - windshieldsMattInFlahttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12223&REPLY_ID=117103General Discussion Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:59:32 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12223

quote:
Originally posted by James R. Davis

It's not the wind that is dangerous, it's the hard things carried by or through that wind.

As Ron White says - "It isn't *that* the wind is blowin - it's *what* the wind is blowin"....

[:D]]]>General Discussion - New type of rear view mirror - I want one.johncrosbyhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11344&REPLY_ID=117019General Discussion Sun, 29 Aug 2010 15:22:53 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11344 Just sold my Reevu - the mirror leaves an image that is 2 stops darker than your normal visor view. This is fine in very bright conditions, but in country lanes with overhanging trees and shadows it's useless. Also in rain or overcast dull conditions you just can't rely on the rear image.

Secondly you'll only see sky unless you ride positioned on the bike with a straight back (dual sport or cruiser). If you ride a sports touring or full sports position then the Reevu is again useless.

This is of course just my humble opinion of having the Reevu since Jan of this year. Sold it for about $100 + postage on eBay to someone in a very sunny part of the US, so they should do fine.

John]]>General Discussion - Motorcycle passed me over 100 mphJMartinhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12205&REPLY_ID=117003General Discussion Sat, 28 Aug 2010 21:46:34 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12205

quote:
Originally posted by Alabusa

Please tell me this pass was not made in the same lane as you??

IH was right on all counts. Those types of riders tend to cull themselves from the pool quickly! Good on you for keeping your cool and please take my apologies for their actions. Not all on that type of bike ride that recklessly or with as little respect for others!!

Thanks. They passed on the center "double line" I'm glad I was in the 1/3rd track on the right of the lane or else it could have turned out worse...
]]>General Discussion - One bright color or contrasting colors?staticattichttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12213&REPLY_ID=116998General Discussion Sat, 28 Aug 2010 15:28:24 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12213 Actually, now that I am looking over the pictures again, the Tourmaster jacket combined with the vest would have the most reflective properties of all. The trade off would be mesh vs leather should I ever hit the pavement.]]>General Discussion - Does size matter (cc)FunToRidehttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11692&REPLY_ID=116995General Discussion Sat, 28 Aug 2010 10:16:13 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11692 I want to share with you my experience since I spent a significant amount of time contemplating buying a bigger bike. Since I am one of those who did not ride for more than 25 years. The itch was there but became prominent when my kids made it to college. To cut the story short, I listened to he advice of starting with a 750 bike. Mine was Honda Shadow. I used it for a year and it was an excellent choice since the few mistakes I made while building my skill back again were well tolerated by the 750cc. I had no accidents and did not drop the bile with the exception of one or two stalls and the bike tipped to the side, nothing major. The desire to move into a bigger bike was energized by two things. One is personal, you know the need for more power and acceleration. The other factor was sort of imposed by going in group rides. A shadow or similar bike does not match the other big bikes. I guess it is the need to belong to that group coupled by the sense of superior-inferior relationship. The overriding questions were
1. Do I really need a big bike
2. If I decide to change, then how many steps up. In other words, do I go to 1000cc 1300cc or jump directly to 1800cc
3. Will I be able to handle the new bike the way I managed with the shadow

So I ended buying a Goldwing. I do not regret that move. Actually, I believe I wasted a lot of time contemplating my move. It is a big bike, yes, heaver, yes, but it handles nicely, and it s well balanced.]]>General Discussion - Side topic from "2 Seconds is not enough"Aisakhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12207&REPLY_ID=116973General Discussion Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:25:25 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12207 I agree with the second post, when I find myself behind a vehicle I cannot see through I will allow more distance between myself and them and try to position myself to see around them better. If at all possible I look to switch lanes to avoid the situation all together.]]>General Discussion - The Disappearing ManD Rhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12210&REPLY_ID=116971General Discussion Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:02:43 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12210 Before and after pictures of my helmet with super-black reflective decals. The decals are barely noticable when not reflecting light.

]]>General Discussion - "Twist the Throttle"gymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12202&REPLY_ID=116949General Discussion Thu, 26 Aug 2010 09:26:29 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12202 The electronics on the MotoGP bikes literally allows the engine tuning mapping to be changed to suit the needs from corner to corner. The electronics have become almost as important as the riders in taming and operating these machines.]]>General Discussion - Driver in MY lanerkfirehttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12204&REPLY_ID=116883General Discussion Tue, 24 Aug 2010 22:16:38 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12204 My brother always takes a wide right turn, in order to "own" the lane. I usually get over to the right, even to the right of the fog line if the shoulder is paved. I just like to give them ample room, if they are going to blow right by me. It's a dilema because I also know it will be taken as an invite by drivers.

In your case, I bet the following driver simply misread the amount of time for your turn, and ended up closing too quickly. He could have, and should have at least swerved a bit into the double yellow, assuming there was no oncoming traffic. He could put a little comfort distance as he passed, just as a curtesy.

On a 65 mph, 2 lane road, I'm going to make my exit from the road quickly, just for this scenario. I'm still going to do it from the right side of the road, or shoulder at the finish of the turn.]]>General Discussion - gear when cruisingRedbeardhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12197&REPLY_ID=116853General Discussion Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:31:23 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12197 At 25 mph, I'm turning 2600 RPM in second gear. That's low enough on my machine that anything more than gentle acceleration feels like it's lugging the engine. I try not to drop below 3500 when I'm cruising and 4500 if I'm riding frisky. My redline sits at 9100; the limiter is set to kick in at 9700, IIRC.

Here are my typical cruising gears:

25 mph: 2nd @ 2600 or 1st @ 3700
35 mph: 3rd @ 2900 or 2nd @ 3650
45 mph: 4th @ 3100 or 3rd @ 3700
55 mph: 5th @ 3400
65 mph: 6th @ 3750
75 mph: 6th @ 4300
85 mph: 6th @ 4900

The theoretical (never tested by me) maximum for my current gearing is 158 mph.]]>General Discussion - Splitting Lanesgymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=9548&REPLY_ID=116815General Discussion Mon, 23 Aug 2010 19:31:59 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=9548 In the US, "The Manual On Uniform Traffic Control Devises" is the standard for all states. Here is a link to this reference work which also deals with roadway markings.
http://www.mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/index.htm

The signs, signals, and markings used in the USA are consistent among the various States and any changes are usually initiated at the Federal level and then adopted by the states.]]>General Discussion - Where do you go to look up bike specsAisakhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12191&REPLY_ID=116800General Discussion Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:09:38 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12191 With your vin number Honda should be able to tell you. Give them a call and see if they can't answer your question.]]>General Discussion - Crazy car drivers!Scamperhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12096&REPLY_ID=116776General Discussion Sun, 22 Aug 2010 15:26:28 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12096

quote:
Originally posted by kendall
Getting off the freeway is normally a good option, but when they follow you off the freeway, straight back on to the freeway, then off the next exit and around a complete circle while zig-zagging through the side roads back to the first exit, (about 6 miles between exits) it stops being a simple bad driving habit, and becomes threatening behavior.

I've got it! Next time you're in that situation, you could do us all a favour and drive to the nearest cop shop. That would've shaken them off but quick. :)]]>General Discussion - Where are we located? Member mapboondogglehttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=1841&REPLY_ID=116756General Discussion Sat, 21 Aug 2010 20:55:58 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=1841 Nice!]]>General Discussion - Local motorcyclist killed, stopped car pulls out in front of himkacinpahttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12173&REPLY_ID=116639General Discussion Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:30:55 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12173 I noted that the other rider involved was treated and released from the hospital after the crash.

I did a quick search but didn't find any articles which mentioned if the victim who passed away was wearing a helmet, since the cause of death was stated as brain injury.

Another potential lesson is that even if you can't avoid a crash, you can prepare ahead with the right gear to help minimize injury.]]>General Discussion - We abandoned a ride today - with pleasureSuperRookiehttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12159&REPLY_ID=116631General Discussion Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:42:13 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12159

quote:
Originally posted by MattInFla

Part of "riding your own ride" is examining the factors that effect your riding. If you're having an off day, there is absolutely nothing wrong with binning it. In fact, IMHO it is the smart thing to do.

Matt

+1 Matt put it succinctly. It's really about "having an "off-day"...or successive "off-moments" if you will. Everyone has them. It's not about predictive events. I did a little poking around and there's quite a bit of information about the phenomenon, which has been coined "rapid cognition", which puts Scamper (and many of us) right on point with regard to ideas about how we often process info.

It is the "unconscious mind...(sic) operating well outside the attention of the conscious mind"...or that which we ordinarily associate with reasoning. "An altered state of consciousness..." So, while we have yet to understand fully the science of it...it is indeed
highly scientific.

There's so much in existence that, had we the ability to truly comprehend, perhaps would not be relegated to silly superstition or the preternatural.]]>General Discussion - Lane position and whyIgorhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11841&REPLY_ID=116597General Discussion Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:22:19 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11841 *blows the dust off the thread*

Just to add my 2 cents... I feel it's very hard to give any quantitative answer on lane positioning because there is so much to it that is context-sensitive. Here are some qualitative observations and musings about how I handle this topic while riding:

Motorways: (i.e. any multilane divided roadway or highway)
In these parts, many of the highways have multi-lane exits, making any travel beyond the next off-ramp a bad idea if you want to stay in the rightmost lane (because you'd be changing lanes almost constantly).

My preference is typically either the left lane or the lane to the right of the left lane; While I'm in the left lane I practice "blocking position" as instructed in the Ontario BRT, therefore I spend most or all of my time in the right tire track if in the left lane.

Because I don't actually want to be going 120-130 km/h with the rest of the average left-laners, however, I'll slide a lane to the right, and take a position based on the traffic around me that: maximizes my cushion while protecting my lane from interlopers, and in practice this could be left tire track, centre, or right tire track depending on where the adjacent vehicles are.

I figure that being in the left or almost left lane I am subjected to the fewest number of cages switching into or out of my lane, which is an added bonus.

4-lane city street:
Here I tend to prefer the centre lane (left lane). The BRT course here teaches to maintain blocking position in the right tire track, which is where I'll spend most of my time, but as I approach an intersection I will position for maximum visibility by any oncoming cage that is likely to do a left-turn in front of me, while slowing 10-20 km/h as well for the intersection (in practice this may be by moving temporarily to the left tire track). As mentioned in the tip sheets, this is one of those rare times when I'd like to have a vehicle parallel to me (at other times I avoid being next to vehicles, typically by passing them and riding staggered with the cars in the adjacent lane(s).

two-lane city street: (with or without parking)
Here, again following Ontario BRT guidelines, I'll ride in the left tire track, although as above I will sometimes move a bit to the centre or right if it improves visibility of/with oncoming left-turners, while being mindful of any parked cars, merging cars, turning cars, car doors, pedestrians, animals, and cyclists/joggers/skaters.

Here's my pet-peeve about riding in Toronto, however, and I'm sure it's an issue elsewhere too... basically I try to avoid any left turn on a 4-lane street unless there is a dedicated turn lane, and here's why: the cars rushing up behind you wait till the last minute to dodge right to pass (which is bad enough) but then they'll have one or more cars right on their tail who are clueless that they're rapidly approaching a stopped motorcycle waiting to turn left.

I'm also not a fan of the 5-lane roads where the centre lane is explicitly for turning into our out of the flow of traffic because most people seem clueless about how to use (or not use) that shared centre lane.]]>General Discussion - Motorcycle Magazines - what do you read?madmachttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12126&REPLY_ID=116590General Discussion Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:47:38 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12126 Beside Motorcycle Consumer News, I read American Motorcyclist from AMA,Ultimate Motorcycling, Motorcycle Cruiser and Cycle World. MCNews is by far and away my favorite.]]>General Discussion - Plea For HelpAxiom2000http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12170General Discussion Tue, 17 Aug 2010 17:59:13 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12170 A Plea For Your Help area at the top of the screen and follow the instructions.]]>General Discussion - This sort of thing gives motorcyclists a bad namemarco-polohttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12139&REPLY_ID=116549General Discussion Tue, 17 Aug 2010 10:05:18 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12139 I have (in the distant past) seen a state police officer drive slightly below the speed limit in the right lane for fairly long distances, causing a long line of cars to form behind them, in the right lane, leaving the left lane empty. When I (stupid, I know - a Canadian in the South for the first time) went into the left lane to gently pass, I was immediately pulled over and given a really harsh talking to - for disrespecting the police officer(???). No ticket and really no grounds for one, but I found the experience on the whole very frightening. Suffice to say that I find the "blocking" story unwise but entirely feasible, especially with squids on sportbikes weaving through traffic.

I have doubts about the rest of the story on factual grounds. I grew up in Vancouver, BC, so I have some knowledge of the Seattle area. The accident occurred on northbound I-5 in the burbs immediately south of Seattle. This isn't a backroad, this is an interstate through a built-up urban area on a weekday at the end of rush hour.

Both parties were acting dangerously - blocking the flow of traffic, running from the police, giving chase in traffic, and driving unsafely in an urban area. This is a clear chain of errors that could have resulted in tragedy. Even though it didn't, everyone involved is tainted by it. The lesson to us - reasonable, intelligent motorcyclists - is to be conscious of errors compounding each other, and to act swiftly and decisively to break the chain.
]]>General Discussion - Choke usage - was: abandoning a rideIgorhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12168&REPLY_ID=116541General Discussion Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:37:34 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12168 Scott,

I must agree that fuel injection is a huge spoiler :)

My first bike was an '82 Yamaha Seca XS400, obviously with carbs. When it was the cold part of the year that thing was a real pain to start, and I certainly lost count of the number of times I had to tow-start it... (don't tow-start, boys and girls, it's not safe).

Now that I have my '07 C50 with it's fuel injection, it starts right up, even when the temps are below freezing. It runs pretty smooth right away, but I let it warm up for about 30 seconds, typically, because it has a wet-clutch that complains if I shift into first before it's been properly lubricated.

It would be difficult to go back to carbs now!]]>General Discussion - Yosemite Sequoia Kings Canyon & KernvilleDavid13http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12157&REPLY_ID=116510General Discussion Sun, 15 Aug 2010 21:06:40 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12157 Scott
I read your account of a few years ago.
I'll see about getting a Moro Rock hike in there.
Thanks.
dc]]>General Discussion - The Good and the Badaa6vhhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12149&REPLY_ID=116492General Discussion Sun, 15 Aug 2010 11:25:27 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12149 I am with Scott on this. I worry that if I pause too long checking out the cross streets, the person coming up behind me may see the green light and not realize that I am still stopped.

I always check the side streets even when my light is green, but I also remain very aware of what could get me from the rear.]]>General Discussion - Brake light switch?kendallhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=8388&REPLY_ID=116490General Discussion Sun, 15 Aug 2010 10:58:00 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=8388 Why not just mounting a switch on the throttle at the carb or throttle body?
Advantage is when you close the throttle the brake light comes on. When sitting at a light it's on, and doesn't depend on inertia so will work at any speed, or incline. Could be set up with a simple microswitch.

Personally, I don't care for automatic safety equipment. Since automatic headlights got common, I see too many cars going down the road at night with no tail lights. Automatic headlights, but tail lights that require action leads to that. ABS has spawned a whole generation of people have no idea how to use their brakes.
If I hear "I don't worry, I have airbags" one more time from some moron, I'm going to smack them upside the head with a 2x4.

When safety is automatic, people forget how to be safe.

]]>General Discussion - Group ride newbie questionrayg50http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12151&REPLY_ID=116449General Discussion Sun, 15 Aug 2010 07:41:54 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12151 Welcome Scamper. Thank you for your post.

I had had some questions on group rides that the members of the forum were kind enough to answer and the thread might be of interest to you.

]]>General Discussion - James, have you thought about a book?MD11Pilothttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12114&REPLY_ID=116479General Discussion Sun, 15 Aug 2010 00:41:24 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12114 Let me know when to send in a payment!

I would like a signed copy.]]>General Discussion - What you say here WILL be read!James R. Davishttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10022&REPLY_ID=116432General Discussion Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:27:20 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10022 If I didn't want the older messages to be read or replied to, I would archive them. What difference does it make how old the messages are if the information contained in them is of current interest?]]>General Discussion - Update and request for advice.Alabusahttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12144&REPLY_ID=116400General Discussion Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:51:51 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12144 A lot of good advice and opinions have been given already. Always follow your "gut feeling" when riding and when preparing to ride. If you're not comfortable or don't "feel" right,then DON'T DO IT!!!

I think the ride could be doable for you, depending on a few variables. Group size, your immediate riding party, and the position in the big group you take. I take it from your post that the group that invited you will be your immediate riding group? You also made it sound that they are a fairly responsible group of riders? What size is the big group estimated to be? Would your immediate group and yourself be ok with taking the trail position in the big group?

The biggest group ride I have ever been involved in is the Trail of Tears. This is an annual ride from Chattanooga Tn to Waterloo Al. Most years it has 20-30,000 bikes involved. I rode in it one year for about 20 miles and will NEVER do it again. I will now only ride with people I know personally and respect as riders. Their lives and mine demand no less.

]]>General Discussion - Article on motorcycle helmets got a journalist firedradan2http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12010&REPLY_ID=116352General Discussion Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:49:52 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12010

quote:
Originally posted by lessthanthree

I personally believe that the UK's SHARP has the best methods of testing. They exceed the European, US and Snell standards in almost every way.

Instead of having the manufacturer pay for a certification and send a select quantity to Snell to test, this independant organization (SHARP) buys helmets from the same distributors that you and I do. They then test the helmets (bought from actual stores) to a degree higher than current certification standards.

Unfortunately they haven't had the opportunity to test all manufacturers or helmets, and they do not test US helmets, only those sold in the UK.

http://sharp.direct.gov.uk/

I especially like the graphic for each helmet that shows the protection level for each area of the head.]]>General Discussion - Hand gesturesaidanspahttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12131&REPLY_ID=116351General Discussion Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:43:20 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12131 A short but very informative video demonstrating the essential hand signals all riders should know. Feel free to move to "Humor". [:D]
]]>General Discussion - The shorts issue!marco-polohttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12101&REPLY_ID=116327General Discussion Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:10:43 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12101 When you're riding a road bike, dress for a road bike ride, but when you're riding a motorcycle, dress for a motorcycle ride. So take off the shorts and jersey, put on the armored pants and jacket. In other words, take what you're doing, whatever you're doing, seriously.

PS. Check out newenough.com - I bought my mesh pants and mesh jacket there for under $200 all told. A decent set of mesh gear is remarkably comfortable, even in the 90+ degree temperatures that we've been having lately.]]>General Discussion - The Postman lives to Ride AgainRobushttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12125&REPLY_ID=116311General Discussion Tue, 10 Aug 2010 10:16:49 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12125 Speedy recovery!]]>General Discussion - Prioritizing potential hazardsgymnasthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12119&REPLY_ID=116295General Discussion Mon, 09 Aug 2010 16:35:51 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12119 Proximity, closure potential, consequence are problems that one deals with after the search, identification, phases of SIPDE. Predict the relative position of yourself to an ACTUAL hazard based on path position and closing potential and alter speed and/or path accordingly.]]>General Discussion - Name brand vs off brand helmetsstaticattichttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12012&REPLY_ID=116287General Discussion Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:01:58 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12012

quote:
Originally posted by Donryu

Having said that I've read in several different places that the DOT standard is self-enforced, meaning a manufacturer is responsible for testing their own products and certifying them to the DOT standard.

I have read that in several places as well. From what I am gathering, a company must submit a helmet for testing, if that one passes, then they can put the DOT sticker on the rest of the same design helmets coming off the assembly line.

Here's how I am guessing the real world works should a motorcycle helmet company come under fire:

A motorcycle rider is involved in a crash causing a fatality. The crash scene re-constructors (I think this is what Mr Davis does) would investigate using math and physics to determine what happened. The coroner's office would also release the autopsy results indicating the rider died due to severe trauma to the head. An investigator somewhere in the chain would be responsible for analyzing the 2 reports. Their findings would then determine if the rider was travelling at X mph and struck Y object at angle Z, his injuries should not have been life threatening. I would assume the next step would be to look at the damage received by the helmet. Then someone would determine the helmet should have provided better protection. It would then fall on an investigator to determine if Widget motorcycle helmets are falsely claiming to be DOT compliant or if the rider was unfortunate enough to buy the one helmet that slipped through the cracks.

This type of investigation would be lengthy and expensive, so if it were an isolated incident, I would assume it would have to be the family that would press for more answers. Regardless, once the investigation was started, I would think random Widget motorcycle helmets would be purchased and tested. If they also failed, someone would pay a visit to the Widget motorcycle helmet factory and randomly pull helmets off their assembly line for testing. If those failed, government action would take place and sanctions would be placed on the Widget motorcycle helmet company and the lawsuits would come pouring in. A recall would be issued, and lengthy, expensive hearings, testing, and settlements would be made. In the end, a family would still be mourning their loss, lawyers for both sides would walk away with fat paychecks, and the Widget motorcycle helmet company, if they were still alive, would end up spending millions in ad campaigns to restore their image.

None of my ideas are based on experience. I am just making a guess based on things I have read concerning DOT self policing and making assumptions based on other events, such as the Toyota recall. Am I close in my assumptions? Somewhere in the process I would guess the helmet company could also fight back by bringing up things like if the rider had a weak bone structure, if the rider had been cleaning his helmet with chemicals, if the helmet was being worn properly, etc. However, with multiple helmets failing inspections, I wouldn't think these arguments would work, but I am sure they would be brought up somewhere in the fight. Can someone with more experience in this help clear the fog?]]>General Discussion - Downhill Braking questionbachman1961http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12118&REPLY_ID=116274General Discussion Mon, 09 Aug 2010 01:06:22 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12118
Just as a reminder, don't forget to check the tire pressure as others have mentioned, new tires or not.
If not the bikes OEM tire brand, model and size, variations leave lots of room to fumble.
If the tires were put on by someone else, they may have them set as stated on the tire and that could be way off the bikes spec. Even if everything is perfect with tire match and pressure setting a month ago, I have been constantly amazed at the times I've found my tire pressure to hold for months at a time with little variations in loss and other times find them off a few times within 2 weeks. It's something I've become very quick and handy at checking ... especially since I found one of my gauges to be 4 to 7 psi off the mark at different pressures.

I'm getting to be more and more the guy that checks his oil after I get home from the lube shop. Anyone can make a mistake or have a wacky gauge and the cost benefit of catching a mistake early on is immeasurable. [:)]

~brian

]]>General Discussion - Trike rolls backward while parked in gearNight Trainhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12116&REPLY_ID=116263General Discussion Sun, 08 Aug 2010 17:30:36 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12116 Tex, you crack me up! [88]]]>General Discussion - conspicuous lighting arrangementtomwrighthttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=11795&REPLY_ID=116256General Discussion Sun, 08 Aug 2010 09:53:16 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=11795 I'm a big proponent of being seen. I have Moto-Lights on my front lower forks and small LED white lights under my headlight. I also have a yellow stone guard over my headlight.
On the rear I use a Priority Plus unit. It sounds like the Kisan unit. It makes my rear turn signals (amber) stay on as running lights. When the brake is applied the turn signals flash a few times then become steady burning bright. It doesn't affect the turn signal operation and the stoplight is steady burning not flashing. The key to meeting the federal (and state) standard is the brake light must be steady burning not flashing.

The LED lights (Bike-Vis) were not mounted when this picture was taken.

I don't rely on the lights to be seen but everything helps.
[IMG]http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll234/twvtr/d12957.jpg[/IMG]]]>General Discussion - Crampy McHandcrampsTexasphotographerhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12098&REPLY_ID=116225General Discussion Fri, 06 Aug 2010 20:52:16 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12098

quote:
Originally posted by Indiana Randy

If the pain is in the joint(s), this may help;

I suggest you work to keep those fingers RELAXED when riding. If you are keeping your fingers tense or the little muscles flexed, they will tire regardless what you do.

When my shoulder did not heal properly one orthopod sent me to a shoulder specialist in Austin, TX for a shoulder replacement. The doctor evaluated my MRI and told me I had a choice. A shoulder replacement or a shot of cortisone and go on a glucosamine and chondroiton regimen. I now take three 1200MG of this stuff daily and my shoulders although racked with arthritis do not hurt.

Keeping your hands relaxed, a crampbuster and this stuff work wonders.]]>General Discussion - Sidecarsfnotneyrodhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12113&REPLY_ID=116221General Discussion Fri, 06 Aug 2010 15:34:11 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12113 My wife and I just bought a 2007 Ural Tourist. We looked into getting a sidecar installed on the Harley, but the Harley sidecar, plus the bits, pieces and labor, was going to cost $12,000. The Ural was about 1/2 that. They also make a model with a "quick disconnect" sidecar, so the bike can be ridden solo.

My first ride with the sidecar scared the bejeepers out of me. As has been mentioned, it handles nothing like a motorcycle. It's more like riding a snowmobile; you move your body from side to side, depending on which way you are turning. It is more of a workout than riding on 2 wheels.

It is said, that people that have never ridden a motorcycle have fewer problems getting used to a sidecar rig, than those that have. If you are an experienced motorcycle rider, you have certain expectations, once you throw you leg over the saddle. You expect to lean in the corners. With a hack, you lean, but the bike doesn't. With a 2 wheeled bike you expect to accelerate in a straight line, but with a hack, the sidecar wants to pull you toward the ditch. When you stop, it wants to push you into the oncoming traffic.

Having said all of that, you learn to compensate, to make the sidecar work for you. You roll on the throttle in the right hand turns and roll of the throttle in the left hand turns. You use more rear brake to keep the hack from pushing you around. You move your body to the right to help keep the tub wheel on the ground.

Cool things about a sidecar rig:
Not having to put your feet down at a stop sign.
Having reverse gear and being able to back into that parking spot

Not so cool:
Putting your foot down at the stop sign anyway.
Forgetting that you left the rig in reverse.

They are not for everyone, but they can be fun.

]]>General Discussion - Stung by a bee - againbachman1961http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=10193&REPLY_ID=116185General Discussion Thu, 05 Aug 2010 20:52:00 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10193
Is this some sort of test or something?
Anyone can see that Scott is Yellow and Black (by his picture) on that Duke with leathers .. [8D] Bees ... Hello ? ?

Really though ... I forgot to mention that even if feeling somewhat immune to stings, the rolled up gator on your neck offers some padding in case you do take a big bug hit stinger or not,to the neck.

Happy to hear these sudden and painful episodes don't cause bigger problems by distraction.

~brian]]>General Discussion - Hard to watchkendallhttp://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?whichpage=-1&TOPIC_ID=12106&REPLY_ID=116150General Discussion Wed, 04 Aug 2010 20:54:32 -0500http://www.msgroup.org/forums/mtt/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=12106 Personal view is that videos like that should be shown on a regular basis, would at least put into peoples minds the consequences of getting stupid behind the wheel or bars.

]]>