If I lose at play, I blaspheme; if my fellow loses, he blasphemes. So, God is always the loser. John Donne, 1623
Customized Motorcycles
Motorcycles are very popular, with thousands of them on the road. You will find them in a variety of makes and models for your enjoyment. Finding exactly the style you want that fits your body can prove to be difficult, especially if you are extremely short or very tall. Having a customized motorcycle made to your specifications is a great alternative, but it is also more expensive.
One of the most well known custom motorcycle makers is Jesse James, owner of West Coast Choppers. Jesse James has been passionate about motorcycles since he was seven years old. He has customized motorcycles for many celebrities including Shaquille ONeal, Kid Rock, and Kyle Petty. The bikes range in price from ,000 to 0,000.
While this is going to be much to expensive for the average individual, you can still get a great customized motorcycle from some other sources. There are many things you need to consider to get started. First, what is it that you need from a motorcycle that you cant get from a standard one at any retailer? If it is simply the color, you will save a great deal of money by purchasing it from the retailer and having it repainted. In some cases, you may be able to contact the manufacturer and have the bike painted your ideal color at the factory.
Most of the time, individuals need to have a motorcycle customized to fit them properly. Take Shaquille ONeal for example. He is such a large person, that the average motorcycle just doesnt work well for him. Jesse James was able to use ONeals measurements to create a motorcycle that was comfortable for him to ride. Customized motorcycles are a great choice for those with a disability that prevents them from being able to operate a standard motorcycle.
If you are determined to have a customized motorcycle, take the time to research the various manufacturers you have to choose from. Keep in mind that you may have to wait several months or even years to get the motorcycle you want if the manufacturer is very busy. Always discuss the options you want in great detail as well as the price. If the manufacturer wont agree to your specifications then look for someone who will.
It is a good idea to conduct research about the manufacturer. Find out how long they have been customizing motorcycles. Ask for references and to see samples of their work. You will also want to inquire about warranty information and a guarantee if you arent pleased with the work. In most cases, you will have to pay a deposit before work begins on your customized motorcycle. Make sure they are familiar with working with the model of motorcycle you want to have customized.
Having your very own motorcycle is a great recreational item to spend your time with. However, investing in a customized motorcycle will allow you to have the very best motorcycle that fits your style as well as your body. Being comfortable on your motorcycle will allow you more enjoyment and you can also use it for long road trips. You are less likely to be involved in a motorcycle accident if the motorcycle is a proper fit. While a customized motorcycle is more expensive than a traditional model, it is an investment that is well worth it.
Fuel Efficient Motorcycles: Updating Your Old Bike
By Ben Anton
Soaring fuel prices have made gas-guzzling cars very unpopular. Welcome to the resurgence of the motorcycle. Why? Because properly maintained motorcycles and motorcycle engines can get between 40 and 60 miles a gallon. Smaller scooters get upwards of 90 miles a gallon, pretty good for an economy with -per-gallon gasoline.
Because of this, bike sales have soared. Motorcycle repair, too, can come in handy. Do you have a bike in storage that you haven't dusted off for awhile? There's a good chance you can be among those restoring motorcycles so that you can ride your old road hog again.
Restoring your older motorcycle to working condition starts with some basic steps:
Check Fuel
If you didn't use a fuel stabilizer before you put the bike into storage, drain your old fuel (including tank, fuel lines and carburetor as applicable) before you run the engine, and put new in. Lubricate spark plug ports with a little oil, too, before you start things up.
Check Oil
Change the oil and filter if you didn't do so before you started. If you did, top levels off.
How Is Your Battery?
Make sure leads are not corroded and that the battery will fully charge and then hold a charge. If it doesn't, replace the battery.
Inspect The Chain
Because your chain transfers power from the engine to the rear wheel, it is very important that it be in excellent shape. Look the chain over for the following:
-- Is the chain the proper tension? You should be able to grasp it in the center and move it about one inch in either direction, up or down.
-- Are front and wheel sprocket teeth in good condition? If the teeth have grooves or "waves" in them or they show other signs of wear, you probably need new sprockets (chain will probably show similar wear and need replacement).
-- Check every single section of the chain for signs of wear and for proper tension. It should move about an inch when you pull on it. Tighten the chain if it's loose, and loosen it if it's tight. If the links themselves are too tight, you might need to replace the whole chain.
-- Clean dirt off the chain with a clean towel or rag before you apply lubricant. Make sure you thoroughly lubricate all sprocket teeth and links.
-- Lubricate the chain well. Remember that some solvents should not be used with rubber if your chain has rubber parts to it. Use a proper solvent and wipe off any excess lubricant with a clean rag.
-- Set chain tension properly by moving your rear wheel and axle forward or backward. Both sides of the axle should be aligned properly before you tighten things up or the chain and sprockets might wear out quickly. Tighten the axle nuts and replace the cotter pin with a new one if needed.
Fluid Levels
Brake, clutch and coolant levels should be checked as necessary. Make sure you replace missing brake fluid with a new container of the same brand you used last time. Let your bike idle for a few minutes before you take off so that all fluids circulate properly.
Tires and Suspension
Inspect everything thoroughly before you take your first ride. If you kept your bike stored upright on a kickstand, make sure your tires aren't cracked, marked, or flat. In addition, check to make sure tire wear and air levels are good.
The PDF version of the Motorcycle Safety Foundations Inspection checklist is available here: http://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/T-CLOCSInspectionChecklist.pdf. It's a good idea to go through it before putting your old bike on the road again.
The above tips on repairing motorcycles should have you up and running in no time. So go on, and get ready to feel the pull of the open road again.
Ben Anton lives in Portland, OR and works for Labworks Design, Northwest-based web design firm.
Read more about repowering from the experts on small engine vehicle repower kits at the Repower Specialists site for small Honda engines for golf carts and mowers.