Newbie Biker's Memoirs

Snake on motorcycle parts

2006-06-01T06:23:00.000-07:00

Cobra motorcycle parts and accessories have a lot in common with all the other motorcycle brands but Cobra stands out among the rest. Bike owners love the Cobra sissy bar range because it is easy to customize and anyone can do it easily. If you want to add accessories to your bike, you can easily do it because the accessories are available and easy to find.

It will just take a lot of initiative and imagination to make sure that you plan your bike’s customization properly.

Cobra motorcycle parts have a big range of bolt on add-ons that has been made available for all the motorcycle users. This has made buying motorcycle parts easier and reliable.

You will not have to worry about changing your motorcycle parts any time because you know that they are available and not difficult to look for. If you want exhaust designs, Cobra Motorcycle Parts is a good choice.

Questions about Motorcycle Tires

2005-11-18T05:40:00.000-08:00

Motorcycle parts like tires are susceptible to a lot of queries. I gathered some of the questions and here they are:

1. What’s the right tire age?

Essentially, the principle is the fresher the tire the better. In order to make a tire last longer the tire’s age is of less significance. However, if you have ample choices do not buy tires which are over six or seven years old.

2. Why are new tires better?

New tires are better because it is organic and it decomposes. Another reason is that the older the tire gets, the more it is exposed to outgassing which makes it brittle.

3. What to do in case of a flat tire?

Motorcycle tires flex from more directions. Moreover, motorcycle tire has only the other tire to prevent it from falling. Thus, the best thing to do in case of a flat tire is to replace it and not just plug it.

4. When is there a need for replacement?

Front tires may still shot even when there is still ample rubber. In fact, they may still look good even if they have gone through considerable heat cycles. They can also cup or scallop when already having uneven surface. In this state, it is best time to replace them.

5. What about size and pressure?

Run the bike in the recommended tire pressure. Stick to the manufacturers guidelines. That is the safest and the best thing that you can do. Yet, you can have some divergence depending on your desired performance.

It is a lesson in maintenance to regularly check your motorcycle's tires.

Oil vs. Wax

2005-11-10T11:47:00.000-08:00

Motorcycle parts are pretty demanding at times. In fact, they need considerable attention and maintenance so as not to develop discrepancies while we are out there enjoying the chance of a lifetime ride!

One of these parts is the motorcycle chains. It needs constant cleaning and lubricating. Some riders are using oil, some wax. However, which of the two is preferable?

To start, both motorcycle oil and wax has their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s discuss them one by one.

Oil has greater penetration compared to wax. This is the reason why it lubricates better. Aside from that, oil does not grip onto sand and dirt contamination. Therefore, several applications are necessary to fully lubricate the motorcycle chains. However, it flings off easily compared to wax. Flinging takes contaminants. As a result, oil lowers the total contamination level.

In the case of wax, it sticks firmer and more lasting than oil. Thus, it can obstruct water for a long time. The drawback though is that it grips onto sand and dirt. This results to the increase of contamination level as well as abrasions on seals.

In the above distinction, we can point out some tips. First, if you are in a coastal area or desert, oil is ideal. If you are patient and diligent, you can use oil. Automatic oilers like Pro-Oiler, Scott Automatic Chain Oilers, HawkeOiler, Lubetronic are good. On the other hand, use wax if you are in a vicinity where you get a lot of contamination.

Keep the chains lubricated and sound to prolong their life!

Troubleshooting and Maintenance of Motorcycle Chains

2005-11-07T16:35:00.000-08:00

The power of the engine is transported to the rear wheel through a drive chain (for other bikes, it is shaft drives or belts).

Basically, there are four things that we need to do in order to maintain a modern-sealed ring chain. First, to clean it from sand, grime and dirt debris. Second, to lubricate its exterior. Third, to make adjustments. And finally, to replace.

Cleaning is one of the secret factors to prolong the use of motorcycle chains. It must be thoroughly cleaned every after 500-600 miles travel. You can do it with the use of kerosene.

After cleaning, you lubricate it. Oils and waxes work best with chains. However, be reminded that some seals fail too fast thus, it is the function of lubricants to protect the seals and to keep any rollers with compromised seals working until the chain gets replaced.

After all these, chains must be adjusted. Check whether it is too slack or too tight. The rule of thumb is that slightly loose chain is safer compared to those slightly too tight. Further, we have to know the bike’s model needs in connection with adjustments. To do this, consult the bike’s manuals.

If in case the chain have become too stretched or elongated, sprockets are wearing off or if the rollers do not turn freely, it has to be replaced. A well maintained chain can go between 8,000 - 15,000 miles. On the other hand, those that are poorly maintained can only go less than 5,000 miles. If you wonder about ignored chains, well they rarely go beyond 2,500 miles.

Whew! This was really an exciting day to focus on chains. Now, I’m learning the right things about them! Thanks Ryan.

Rusty Gas Tank

2005-11-04T13:42:00.000-08:00

I’m still on an indefinite leave from my work to take care of my husband. However, if you have are in an environment like mine, you will most likely feel bored and crave for the activities that you’re used to.

So, I tried to wipe self-pity out of my system. I told myself, today I’m gonna relive my 2^nd on the list passion – which is of course BIKE!

Just this afternoon, Ryan came. I told him that Mike’s old bike is already developing rust inside the gas tank. He told me that oxidation caused it since it was not kept full of fuel these past few months.

Here are also some pieces of advice he had given me (I just wanna share this to those newbies out there):

To prevent rust, tank must be filled with gas to the maximum level in order to displace air.
If ever the bike will not be used for more than 6 weeks, fuel stabilizer must be placed into the tank before filling it with gas up to the rim.
If it will be more than 3 months, you must drain ½ cup of fuel from the bottom of the tank and fill it with gas. Nevertheless, replace gas every 3 months.
If it is for more than 11 months, tank must be drained completely and air dried. After that place silicate packets inside and seal tank.

He will tell me the methods on how to eliminate rust the next time he visit us. Now, I’ll spend my free time in knowing the ins and outs in motorcycle parts and apparel. I’m looking forward to ride again. I hope Mike can already walk alone and eventually get better to ride with me in the future.

Goin’ Soft and Impotent

2005-10-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

They are saying that the crown jewel of a motorcycle is its seat. What will you feel when your crown jewel is the one responsible for your sexual impotence?

It can true. In fact that news is alarming. According to the study, rider’s will soon be composed of two groups - those who are impotent and those who will be impotent.

According to the studies conducted by researchers at Boston University and in Italy, the more a person rides, the greater the risk of impotence or loss of libido. Also, researchers in Austria have found that many riders experience saddle-related trauma that leads to small calcified masses inside the scrotum.

Scientists are also saying that some saddle designs are more harmful than others. Further, they said that even the so-called ergonomic seats, to protect the genitals, can be harmful. Dr. Steven Schrader, a reproductive health expert at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health said that it was no longer a question of “whether or not bicycle riding on a saddle causes erectile dysfunction.”

Riders must be more cautious in purchasing motorcycle parts like the saddles. Otherwise, they’ll gonna spoil their chance of having a lifetime of good sex!

Better and better..

2005-10-26T17:08:00.000-07:00

To those who are asking about Mike’s condition, well, he’s getting better and better everyday only that he’s still mad at Ted. I hope time can alter loathe into forgiveness for the sake of their being cousins.

N’way, thank you folks for all the support you have given us. I will never get tired of thanking you guys for the care you have showed us.. Thank you…

Another person that is worth mentioning is Ryan (Mike’s best buddy). Thanks for visiting Mike always – to talk to him in his most unpredictable behavior is a hard thing to do but you are there for him. Thank you also for giving me pieces of advice to stay strong and hold on to the situation. Your acts are greatly appreciated.

Now, that things are beginning to go back to normal for Mike, I hope my marital life will soon be all right. I miss the days when my husband and I tour around the country while he takes pride of the scenic spots, when we drop by an espresso shop and enjoy a chat over a cup of coffee - simple things yet worthy… Still wishing for the old Mike to come back...

So Drastic..

2005-10-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

It’s kinda awful when things you less likely expect change so drastically…

After that fateful afternoon of Mike’s accident, things have really changed. He became indifferent and strangely aloof (which he never was. I’ve known him to be a jolly and good-natured man). He wanted to spend the whole day inside our room. He also prefers to be alone most of the time. I have encouraged him to take early morning stroll on a wheelchair (he still finds it difficult and painful to walk) to get the early morning warmth of the sun but he just sit in bed as if hearing nothing. Mike has also become temperamental. Petty things can trigger his anger and he will just shout at you if he wanted to.

One time, a friend and his wife visited him but he just pretended to be asleep. Sometimes he doesn’t want to talk to people – even to me. Still, it is rude for him not to talk to our visitors. I just hope they will just understand him.

On the first week after his accident, I find it easy to deal with his behavior. I told myself that Mike is just adjusting to his condition and is having a hard-time accepting that he will be in bed for a number of weeks. He will not be able to ride, go to work and enjoy his free time. Aside from that he was not used to being dependent on other people. But now, he has to. I just appease myself by thinking that he will recover fully - in time.

He’s very unusual now. I don’t know if I can still handle the situation well. Ryan, our common friend, told me in jest to load more patience. I think that’s what I’m doin’ now. And I do hope I can still deal with it for long…

Thank goodness he’s fine now!

2005-10-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

I haven’t blog for how many weeks now because a terrible thing happened to my husband. I’m thankful he is good now and is recovering from his burns.

The accident happened last Wednesday, Sept. 28. He was then fixin’ his old Yamaha bike. He drained the leaking tank and lay on the ground to fix the problem with motorcycle parts, when Ted, his cousin, arrived. The bike cannot be easily seen from Ted’s direction because Ted’s Ducati bike comes before it. Ted threw his cigarette butt to the bin but it accidentally bounced to Mike’s direction near the gasoline leaks. In a split second, blades of fire began. All I heard was Mike’s cry of pain. I stood there –shocked and unable to move. Good thing Ted has reached out for a fire extinguisher mounted nearby to stop the fire that has nearly caught the vehicles in the garage. He also carried my husband to the nearest hospital for treatment. My husband was diagnosed with second degree burns in his left leg. We stayed there for 5 days and then he insisted to go home.

Now, I am personally attending to his needs. I’m pretty grateful he’s fine. The doctor advised him to take ample time to rest so he will not be that active as before.

I’m also thankful to those who visited Mike while we are in the hospital as well as to those who called up.

Did we learn our lesson? (After Katrina and Rita)

2005-09-26T15:38:00.000-07:00

It seems that storms are visiting us a few weeks after the other. Why is this so? It is known that hurricanes are brought about by global warming. Thus, the warmer the oceans are, the greater the possibility of hurricanes.

But does this also affect the frequency of hurricanes. Before it was Katrina, now Rita I am wondering if there could be another hurricane this year. Our damage is already overwhelming, deaths are countless and the threat of another hurricane is very alarming.

The pattern is repeating but we are not doing anything to plan for the future. Problems and troubles in the past can reoccur. The question is are we ready to combat them? Are we learning our lessons or just sleeping on the cot and wait for the news to subside.

The matter is not simply to be thankful because the gasoline's price has been slashed down. There is something more in it. Our children may soon be riders or maybe not. But the thing is we have to secure a safe environment for the future generation. We owe it to them.

This is not just a simple issue of giving donations, foodstamp and all sorts for these are only part of the present. How about the future? Does the government think, these events are still manageable? How many of these hurricanes are we still awaiting to think of the safety of today's people and tommorow's generation?

We need to conduct studies. We have to analyze, plan for our safety and good!

Are you on the Hot Seat?

2005-09-10T02:28:00.000-07:00

Doug Klassen in his blog Forty Years on Two Wheels has written an article entitled Aprilia Caponord: On the Hot Seat. In said article he emphasized the importance of riding comfortably even in warm weather.

With the use of a FLIR thermocamera, he worked on a test and took some images of my '02 Aprilia Caponord set under the blazing heat of the sun. The temperature was about 98° - 100° F outside. First, he recorded some images of the seat and then he tossed his sheepskin from Alaska Leather to cover it. Comparing the two images side by side it can be seen that the one without the sheepskin has a white area of 177°F. Obviously, the one with the sheepskin cover is cooler than the bare vinyl seat cover.

According to Doug, “the hottest part of the sheepskin cover is approximately 137°F, 40° cooler than the bare vinyl, still plenty warm but because of the low mass of the sheep fur the heat doesn't really bite the way the bare vinyl cover does”.

To conclude, long hours of ride will surely give you an easily ruined expensive seats and a ‘roasted butt’!

Biker vs. Motorcyclist (Any difference?)

2005-09-09T02:22:00.000-07:00

In our ordinary parlance, we use bikers and motorcyclists synonymously. One may mean the other and vice versa. However, some are using them with different meaning.

James of whybike.com has written an article entitled Are you a biker?. In said article he made a comparison between biker and motorcyclist. And here is what he said: “So what is the difference between a biker and a motorcyclist? First things first. A motorcycle is needed to be a biker. Now I know that just because you own a motorcycle, that alone does not make you a biker, but a biker is not a biker without a motorcycle. Motorcyclists also own motorcycles but here is where attitude comes in. A motorcyclist rides his bike because of the thrill, rush, relaxation, etc. A biker will ride for the same reasons, but will do so even when it is inconvienent, illogical, or frowned upon. The biker places the ride above all else; even society’s conventions, personal stigmas, and prejudice.”

In that particular article, biker’s views were also solicited. Two of which are the following:

1. In many ways I envy true bikers. In others, I don’t. I have several friends who are fanatics, and wouldn’t likely consider marriage/kids/etc. because it would interrupt the ride. Those are the bikers I’m talking about.

I love my wife and kids and find my fair weather habit(s) a very sufficient balance.

So I don’t consider myself a true biker in that context…and I’m cool with it.

2. I’m personallly not really into restrictive definitions and rules about what qualifies someone as a biker. After all, freedom is a major part of why we’re out there on the road in the first place.

As far as I’m concerned, if riding a motorcycle is an important part of your lifestyle or your identity, you’re a biker. I think we all recognize the look in each other’s eyes when we pass on the road. Whether you choose to use the word “biker” to express that is secondary.

Based from the aforegoing it is evident that there are varying opinions or interpretations regarding the use of these words. Biker may connote a negative thing unlike motorcyclist. However, the difference may lie on every person’s point of view and the surrounding circumstances.

Katrina’s Debris

2005-09-07T15:38:00.000-07:00

It’s so depressing to see part of the globe destroyed by hurricane Katrina. Thousands of people died and a lot more are missing.

As I browse the daily papers and scan the news on the Net, I feel choked. I feel the chill. Imagine the ignominy, torture, loss, hurt and ruin. It’s unbearable. Just the mere death of a loved one is debilitating. What more if there are multiple death plus other destruction. It’s a total devastation!

The rescue and relief operations are ongoing and the survivors are still struggling. You can see exhaustion from deep within them but they are courageous than ever. You can see pregnant women and children sharing foodstamp. They do not mind the heat of the sun. All they care about is to line up in order to have their meal and survive.

New Orleans, as the center of destruction experienced great flooding and wreckage. The houses and buildings were submerged in the water. Bridges fell, pipes broken, edifices destroyed and people hungry and in pain.

On the other side of the world, here we are, safe yet upset because we cannot take a ride due to the weather and flood in some areas. Why don’t we lend a helping hand? A lot of people are in dire need. Little things to us may mean a lot to them. All we need to do is reach out….

Buell XB12X Ulysses: Bike to Watch Out For

2005-09-07T02:16:00.000-07:00

It’s nice to know that Buell gets dirty through its XB12X Ulysses. This new bike, part of the 2006 series of Buell, can be used in bumpy rides over unpaved roads.

Angrybob and I share the same plight in connection with Buell bikes. I also dislike Buell for several grounds. In his blog at motorcyclebloggers.com, angrybob said: “I have never had a favorable opinion of Buells either for a couple of reasons. First, they are over-priced IMO for what you get out of them. Second, they use too many HD parts that are vital to reliability. Third and most important…they are ugly as hell.”

However, he further added, “That may be changing. I heard of the Buell XB12X through the grape vine and decided to take a closer look (dealer was closed for the holiday, so none in person). But I like what I see and have read about its on and off-road capability. People seem to highlight the tire performance and the seat comfort. Read that extensive review for a lot of real world info and pics if you are interested.”

I have seen several pics of Ulysses and I’ve told myself this is different from the rest of the Buell’s series. It is simple yet elegant. The colors are barricade orange and midnight black with graphite gray frame. Looks great huh! But it’s not only the looks but the built. It has Thunderstorm 1203 V-Twin engine and a chassis tuned to have smooth turns and quiet maneuver. The Triple Tail system organizes the seat, luggage rack, grab rail to make a comfortable ride. The tires are optimized to cater to on and off long-travel road ride.

I must say that this bike is every rider’s ‘must-have’. In fact, a number of riders are planning to have one after its release.

Women and Riding

2005-09-04T15:01:00.000-07:00

Are you one of the ‘gender sensitivist’? Or a feminist? Well, I’m not one of them but I must say its unique to see women is action or doing a tough job like for instance riding a motorcycle.

Women and riding has its simple beginning in the 1800s. The knights are used to mount on horses so women also desired to mount on it. And then it happened. Come 1900s, it opened a new dimension to both men and women. Free-willed, high-spirited women enjoy a protracted bike ride. Sometimes they do stunt riding. To our amazement, when they take off their helmets, we just give off a sigh to see they are women. Who would think women will dare do the ‘men thing’.

Men and women are created with both strengths and weaknesses. Nevertheless, to see them collide in their interests is uniquely different. Men are tough. Women are fragile. Those were the basic concepts – but not for long…

Man ride with dominion and power. Women ride with stirring passion and grace. This two is a striking combination…And our roads welcome both of these species. So riders keep rockin’ the terrains. Anyway, it’s not a question of gender but one of might!

Clean It Up!

2005-09-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

If you open it, close it. If you turn it on, turn it off. If you unlock it, lock it up... If you can’t fix it, call someone who can... If you value it, take care of it. If you make a mess, CLEAN IT UP! (This was an excerpt from Golden Rules for Living). It has its general application. Every person can in fact, relate – even riders…

Riders love their bike. But no matter how much degree of care they exercise, part of their nature is to get dirty when used. They are also susceptible to other destructive elements. Dirt, mud, dust, smoke, weather and other elements damage the bike’s appearance and condition.

What I do to controvert them? Before donning the covers, it’s important to clean the bike first. I apply cleaners, lubricants and polishes for the its precious motorcycle parts. My Ducati 999 is not hard to maintain. It’s easy to clean and check the same with the usual Honda and Kawasaki bikes. In just a few hours of washing, lubricating and waxing, my bike looks sparkling clean and new again.

Now, I’m ready for the next stop…

Cover with Passion

2005-09-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

I love my flashy red Ducati 999R bike. My husband gave it to me as a birthday present. I do not want it to be damaged that easy so I requested for some tips. He said, "save it from the destructive acid rain, dirt and smog to have it longer. As much as possible avoid pricking, scratching, fading and breaking instances. To save it, put on motorcycle cover after using it."He based it from his long bike exposure. And I must say that it has really helped him a lot in preserving his precious motorcycle possessions.

From the time he bought it, up until this moment , My husband's Ducati GSX-R 750 bike has not yet encountered a major dilapidating change. Safe environment, durable oem motorcycle parts, gentle handling, washing, waxing and motorcycle parts cover are part of his maintence regimen that restores the condition and look of his most loved ‘partner’.

Shoei X-11 vs. Arai RX7-RR4

2005-08-31T02:25:00.000-07:00

There have been debates regarding which between Shoei and Arai produces the best helmets. A number of riders are giving their viewpoints and significant experiences. In fact, I have spotted an article in motorcycle bloggers.com entitled Product Review – Arai RX7-RRA vs. Shoei X-11 authored by angrybob. In said article, he made a comparison between the two helmet models. He focused on the ventilation, vision and noise levels.

The conclusion he made was: The X-11 flows large amounts of air immediately. The top of the faceshield cannot be seen when wearing the helmet and peripheral vision is almost 100%. The noise levels seemed (no dB testing…sorry) much lower and single-tone versus the helicopter over head sound. Unfortunately for me, nothing beats the paint and finish quality and durability of an Arai. Shoei did not have a ‘graphic’ helmet that I liked, so I ended up with a solid. I already have scratches on the Shoei. Finally, the pricing of the Shoei helmets are simply more affordable. Mine was $403 delivered. The winner: Shoei X-11 by a good amount.

For me, nice fit is relative. It depends on several factors: the rider’s head, the composition of a helmet, its design, materials and performance. The design must complement the head and the materials used are hard to avoid pricks at the same time light so as not to burden the head with its weight. In connection with its performance, it must be well-tested to feel comfortable and safe. It must control noise to enable the rider to hear the horns blowing nearby, the sounds of passersby, animals and other sounds.

If a certain helmet model is out of stock and can only be found in another outlet. He can make a good deal if he can have someone to pick up the helmet near the location of the store so that shipping fees will be cut off. That will be something to the savings!

Can’t Get Enough…

2005-08-24T08:11:00.000-07:00

Can’t get enough of my newly found world…I haven't imagine it'll be this EXCITING.

An amateur in the field of riding has still a wide world to explore and learn, especially about
Harley Davidson Motorcycle Parts. I can’t get it on my head in just a matter of days or perhaps months. It needs time and more importantly - plenty of effort. Moreover, I grab every opportunity to make me a better and a skilled rider.

Lately, I’m busy completing my gears. My husband Mike (the one who’s responsible why I am now ‘one of the riders’) had already given me a nice fitting feminine riding pants. I’m grateful he let me experience the thrill of riding. Before, I'm kinda afraid to try it. Now that I've tried it, I'm hooked!

I’m already through with helmets and boots. I now have Shoei RF-1000 Helmet and Ladies Harley-Davidson Emotion Boots. I came across an article entitled How are Motorcycle Jackets Chosen and it gave me an idea on how I'm gonna choose mine. Now, I’m planning to buy Xelement’s Classic black women’s biker motorcycle jacket. I find it trendy, comfortable and sexy. Using it will not lose the feminine aura in me. Said jacket costs $59.95. I’m not sure if I can get a good deal over the price. I just wish I can or have an alternative for that matter.