Budget Dual Sport Review

If you are like me, and likely tens of thousands of others, you crave riding adventure on a budget. Fevered dreams of riding the Canadian Rockies on a Suzuki DL650 V-Strom, touring the outback of Australia on a Kawasaki Versys, ripping up some gravel roads in the US on a BMW F650GS, or doing some South American 'mountain climbing' on a KTM 990 Adventure, comes to a sweaty end when the dreamer sees the price tag.

What is a cash strapped motorcycle adventurer to do? Well, luckily there are some inexpensive new motorcycles out there that fit the bill quite nicely. This collection may not necessarily be commercially classified as "dual sport" but much of that dual sport functionality is there in most respects. All of these bikes are generally available in the US, have a price tag of less than $5,000 USD and should be street legal in North America.

The Buell Blast, one of the least expensive motorcycles from the Harley Davidson company is a fun little bike to tear up the two lane asphalt with. It is relatively inexpensive with a price tag of $4,795 which is great for a new rider determined to iron out a good amount of street muscle for a little cash.

It weighs in at a light 360 pounds dry, and with a rated fuel mileage of nearly 73 Miles per Gallon, that's a lot of two lane riding for the dime. If you are determined to take the Blast off the hard roads, beware. It is capable of a little off road adventuring but the rider should be aware of it's limited ground clearance. Visit the Buell Blast website here.


Honda has always made great little bikes that are a lot of fun on the road and in the dirt. The Honda CRF230L is a great example of that versatility. Its little 223 cc single cylinder air cooled engine provides enough energy through its six gear transmission to the rear wheel that this little motorcycle is comfortable on the single track as well as commuting to work.

Its price tag of $4,549 USD makes this a nice inexpensive choice for new riders as well as seasoned road riders wanting to get their feet dirty in the world of off-roading. Honda also offers a Motard version that is classified as CRF230M. It is a bit more expensive with an MSRP of $4,749 but still is a very reasonable, fun ride. You can view the CRF230F website here, and the CRF230M here.


The Kawasaki Super Sherpa may look like it is simply a street legal dirt bike but it is certainly more. It is a workhorse.

Its simple 249 cc single cylinder air cooled engine makes maintenance a breeze. Weighing in at only about 280 pounds, this bike is capable of some quick maneuvers.

The only drawback to this bike that we can see, is its nearly 33 inch seat height. For height challenged riders, this is not a recommended starter bike.

For more information on the Super Sherpa, browse here to the Kawasaki website. With an MSRP of $4,495, she is worth a look!

Suzuki may have struck pay dirt with this nimble, inexpensive explorer. Equally comfortable on the daily work commute as well as running down a muddy cattle trail to the local fishing hole, this bike really is a utilitarian delight.

With an MSRP of $3,995 this motorcycle is hard to not consider. The tiny 199 cc engine may sound small, but packs plenty of low end torque for a lot of on and off road fun.

But wait... There's more! According to Suzuki, the little DR200SE gets a whopping 105 Miles Per Gallon!Want to know more about this great little motorcycle? Browse on over to the Suzuki website.

Yamaha has a sturdy, some would say 'burly' looking little dual purpose bike called the TW-200. The wide tires may look a bit different but offer great traction and handling in almost any situation.

Its little 196 cc engine is set up and tuned to offer plenty of low and mid-range torque. That makes her a good fit for those who want to go off road a bit. The simple air cooled engine and five gear transmission gives this bike great off-highway commuting abilities. Seat height is only 31 inches which, for many height challenged riders, is a joy.

MSRP on this bike is a reasonable $3,990. Browse over to the Yamaha website for more information on this handy little ride.

NEC Motorcycle Show Highlights from MCN

Motorcycle News went to the NEC International Motorcycle Show in Birmingham, England. The video report is in! Hopefully some of those bikes will make their way to the states!

Today in Motorcycling History

One year ago today, motorcycle daredevil Evil Knievel died in Clearwater, Florida at the age of 69. RIP

Three Cheers for Advanced Auto Safety

Those poor souls who are destined to live out their lives on four wheels may now actually help keep us two-wheeled riders safe through advanced automotive technologies.

From a press release issued by Nationwide Insurance, “Driver awareness and riding training are the most crucial components of motorcycle and scooter safety,” said Bill Windsor, associate vice president of safety for Nationwide. “However, the latest automotive technologies are also a plus for riders because many make motorists more aware of their presence and location. Nationwide supports the technological advances from automotive, motorcycle and scooter manufacturers designed to reduce accidents.”

Nationwide goes on to salute four automotive technologies that help make the roads safer for motorcycle and scooter riders.

• Blind Spot Warning Systems
• Lane Departure Warning Systems
• Forward Collision Warning Systems
• Adaptive Headlights / Night-Vision Assist

You can read the entire article here.

Now, only if someone could invent a Stupid Driver Alert System...

Want To Be Checked by Canadian Airport Security?

Simple. Wear a Harley Davidson t-shirt. According to an article by Brian Pynn of the Price George Citizen, the "random" checks may not be so random. He writes of he and his girlfriend being checked every time they wear their Harley Davidson T-Shirts. You can read his entire writeup here.

Aprilia Mana... An Automatic?

Recently released, the Aprilia Mana 850 seems to be making only a lukewarm impression in the motorcycling world. CVT (Countinuously Variable Transmissions) are typically used in cruisers and tour bikes destined to be ridden be middle aged riders that would rather have a nice smooth ride than worry about shifting gears.

This bike does apparently have some power. However, if you are an adrenalin junkie you have been given fair warning. Can NOT wheelie.

For those adventure riders out there who dream of riding hundreds of miles to your favorite forest trail and camp ground, this bike will likely not to it. The CVT can be very flexible and useful in an urban environment, the positive, immediate control of the bike is lost once a rider takes it off the asphalt.

But, if you are just interested in a smooth, sporty ride that is well constructed, this might be worth a look. With a price tag of $16,990 you should probably have that second job lined up.

Read more about the Aprilia Mana here.

Have an Extra $110,000 USD Handy?

The Confederate Motor Company C120 Renaissance Figher was recently included in, of all places, the Neiman Marcus catalog. There, it is described as "There's the startling, dare we say sexy, design that fuses raw power with crisp simplicity. It's an evolution of the machine, at once taken back down to its core elements while being reinvented and re-engineered for optimal performance."

Is this a sport bike? Cruiser? It certainly isn't a dual-sport. The saddle looks to be even less comfortable that a 2x4 plank strapped to the frame of a classic Harley hard-tail. Maybe the description from the Confederate Motor Company can help...

"The Fighter clarifies opaqueness and nullifies hype with straight-forward true to concept certitude. At the source is a classic right triangle. Proportion is classically derived. Scale is middle way. Bearing exudes structural permanence. Human integration deploys yang energy, vitality, and power in the most simple, pure and direct form. Geometry is optimized for the medium and/or long disciplined journey of sensory heightened motion. Torque to weight is maximized. Engine, suspension and ergonomic luxury and ease of use is optimized. Materials utilization is the finest. Individual piece and component specification is highest and best.

Craft preparation and specification is uncompromised. The aesthetic is fresh, industrial, sculptural, holistic and honest. The saddle of the Fighter is your place for those outings which require extended time, geography, meditation and distance. Personal liberation will result! "

Well, that makes things as clear as mud after being trampled by a herd of V-Strom.

It is our recommendation that if you have the money and a questionable taste in motorcycles, go ahead and buy. If you happen to gain some common sense and actually want a motorcycle you can ride and look good on, slip on a $10 t-shirt, old pair of Wrangler jeans and visit your friendly, local motorcycle dealership.

**Please note** Regardless of what is written on these sites, the C120 is NOT street legal in many states. Further proof that this bike is meant to take up space, not actually be ridden.

Fail - Sorry for the interruption

This was indeed not a good technology week for yours truly. I turned on my ex-wife's televison and it greeted me with a loud POP, with a follow-up sizzle.

Three days ago my microwave oven decided to try and imitate an arc welder. Funny... all I wanted was popcorn.

Then, Wednesday night after cleaning the house from an early Thanksgiving dinner with my daughter, her boyfriend and my ex, my laptop decides to start having problems. Files are lost, all of my motorcycle wallpaper was digitaly shredded. Luckily I have backups, so only a little was lost. The laptop itself is not completely trashed, the hard drive probably just had a minor crash.

Now, where are those backups? Not in the computer room. Not in the living room. Not in my makeshift motorcycle shop. Oh... At work. Secure in a nice locked desk drawer.

So, I took that opportunity to do something that has not happened in about four years. I bought a new laptop. So, now that I am online and doing well, I should be back on track and posting again.

(photo from icanhascheezburger.com )

Suzuki - What Global Recession?

According to Katsumi Takata of Suzuki, one of motorcycling's "Big Five", the global recession has not affected their global operations. As a mater of fact, they just recently released their Hayabusa to the folks in India.

Read more about the Hayabusa's release to India and Katsumi's remarks about Suzuki's performance in the global recession here at theindian.com

Riders for Health Opens in Chicago

Riders for Health recently opened their first USA office in Chicago. This group helps raise money to support healthcare efforts in third world nations. They also actively support motorcycle training for health care professionals in areas where other forms of transportation are unreliable or otherwise not an option.

Check out their press release here, at Road Racing World.

Jagermeister Becomes Moto Race Sponsor

The folks at Jagermeister recently announced their sponsorship of the 2009 Monster Energy Supercross races. This is the first time any hard liquor company has sponsored the Supercross.

Not only will they be sponsoring the 17 race series, they will also support the MDK/KTM 450 team and their Freestyle Motocross Jump Team. The exhibition jumping team hopes to show off their stuff at each of the races.

Don't forget the first race in the Supercross will be in Angels Stadium in Anaheim, CA on January third, 2009. You can read the entire write-up here, at MarketWatch. Bottom's Up!

Baja 1000 top Ten Motorcycle Finishers

The final round of the five round race in Baja California, Mexico is complete. Here are the top ten motorcycle finishers.

1. Robby Bell, Kendall Norman, Johnny Campbell (California), Honda CRF450X.
2. Caleb Gosselaar, Timmy Weigand, Quinn Cody, Tim Morton, Johnny Campbell (California), Honda CRF450X.
3. Scott Myers, Shane Esposito (California), Francisco Septien (Ensenada, Mexico), Kawasaki KLX450.
4. Ryan Penhall, Brent Harden, Mike Childress (California), Honda CRF450X.
5. Jim O'Neal, Jimmy O'Neal Jr. (California), Jason Trubey, (Arizona), Mac Stewart, (Nevada), Gerardo Rojas (Vicente Guerrero, Mexico), Luke Dodson (California), Honda CRF450X.
6. Colton Udall, Justin Seeds, Bryce Stavron, Ron Wilson (California) Honda CRF450X.
7. Grant Steele, Jeff Kargola, Max Eddy (California), Honda CRF450X.
8. Mike Johnson (Texas), Kyle Abney, Rex Cameron (New Mexico), Honda CRF450X.
9. Brett Helm, Jeff Kaplan, Lou Franco, Jon Ortner, Craig Adams, Bob Johnson (California), Honda CRF450X.
10. Francisco Arredondo (Guatemala), James West (England), Ivan Ramirez (Mexico), Victor Rivera (Spain), Honda XR250R.

More results can be found here at motorsport.com

HD XR1200 Comes to America!

Well, Harley Davidson has done it. They are bringing a small run of the dirt-track, off-road inspired, sporty looking XR1200 to the US. Introduced in 2008 to audiences in Europe, the XR1200 received praises from many in the motorcycling world. It is powerful, agile and it's a Harley.

Anyone interested should contact your local dealer and ask about it. If your local dealer hasn't a clue, give these folks a call.

Monday Morning Motorcycle Cartoons

Sometimes a rider needs a little motorcycle levity to get through a day. What better day than a Monday to share these.

• Motorcycle Cartoons on Cartoon Stock
• Some cute ones from T. McCracken
• Road Rash by Harry Martin
• K-n-j Moto (thanks again to Mike Werner for this one).
  

Happy Monday!

100 Year Old Rides Motorcycle on her Birthday

Two thumbs up to Eloise Bullock of Collegedale, Tennessee on her 100'th birthday this month. Ms Bullock, as is her tradition, rode a motorcycle around the parking lot where she lives. Here's to many more rides for this strong woman. Read the news blurb here at the WDEF website.

Keep the rubber side down and the shiny side up, Eloise!

(Picture from the Chattenoogan.com )

200 Million Hondas

Announced late in October by Honda Worldwide, they have officially produced 200 million Honda Motorcycles. The Japan based company started motorcycle production with the Dream in 1949. They even hope to sell 18 million bikes worldwide in 2010!

Congratulations, Honda! You may read their official page about this milestone here at the Honda Worldwide website.

Winter Riding Tips

As much of the northern hemisphere goes into its motorcycle hibernation, there are those intrepid riders that continue to enjoy the motorcycling lifestyle. Through snow and ice and freezing temperatures they continue onward.

Some are older riders who simply can't imagine not riding their bikes to work, or not going on weekend rides. Then there are those new riders looking for another challenge, another conquest. Here is a list of things a winter time motorcyclist can do to help them ride safe and stay warm.

• Staying warm sounds fairly easy to do. It's not so easy when riding a bike with no fairing at 60 MPH in freezing tempretures. A key to staying warm is to wear many thin layers of clothing, rather that a single shirt, coat and riding jacket. Wearing layers traps air which is a great insulator.
• Do your hands get cold when riding? Consider getting a pair of motorcycle mittens. Since the fingers are not separated, the body loses less heat and your hands stay warm. Mittens can affect how you ride, so you should practice using them before you need them.
  
• Are your hands still cold in your mittens? Don't like wearing mittens? Try putting a small chemical warming pouch in each glove. Just be careful you don't get burned.
• Try wearing your full rain gear. The pants and jacket will help reduce wind chill and improve the insulation provided by your other gear.
• Use a full-face helmet. It will definitely help keep you warm. Other types of helmets will help, but full-face is the best.
• Use other head wear. One of the most common and effective winter head wear items is the balaclava. This great invention is like a snug hood that goes over your head and around your neck.
• If you don't have a balaclava, use some other form of tight fitting head wear.
• Put a bandanna or scarf around your neck.
• If your bike's electrical system can handle it, consider electrically heated clothes, like gloves, vest and socks. If your motorcycle's electrical system can't handle the load, or it has no electrical system, look into battery operated attire.
  
• Drink plenty of water. In most places, the air is drier in the winter months. The typical motorcyclist may not think of becoming dehydrated in the wither but it is really rather easy to do.
• Put extra emergency food in your saddle or tank bags. Don't have bags? Stash some in your jacket. Good emergency food should be high in protein and durable. Many riders carry Power Bars.
• Make sure you have an emergency Mylar blanket; those silver ones that typically cost less than $2 USD.
  
• Pack emergency chemical warmers. If you don't need them (and hopefully you won't) you can store them throughout the summer months and they should be ready for next winter.
• Make sure you have a good flash light with extra, fresh batteries.
• Keep your bike in peak condition. Do not skimp on maintenance.
• Consider getting tires specific for snowy travel.
• Look into getting, and using Snow Claws. They are a form of snow chain for motorcycles. Before buying, check your local laws.
  
• Can't afford Snow Claws? Toss some larger zip-ties in your bags. If the going gets tough, Just zip a few on your tires.

By taking the right precautions and riding very carefully, winter riding can be very enjoyable.

Vespa Plates Too Small. What the???

This one falls into the "What The???" department. Apparently scooter riders who bring their trusty Vespas along for their riding tests are being failed in South Africa. There seems to be confusion in the government and the populace as to what the proper size should be!

This news article was just too odd to pass up this morning. Read the whole thing over at motoring.co.za

Austrian Klaudia Honeder Takes Fifth in the Raid De Himalaya

Klaudia Honeder, the only woman to enter into the Raid De Himalaya placed fifth out of a field of 15. This eight day challenge of will and riding skill through the Himalayas include more than ten high mountain passes and the second highest motorable road in the world. You can read more of the race and this woman's fantastic achievement here at motoress.com

Winter Riders

Are you one of those hardened motorcycle riders that think winter is just another riding season? Does snow and ice just seem like another challenge to you? Are you the kind of motorcyclist that thumbs their nose at winter storm warnings? If so, you should check out some of these photos!

More Ducati Desmosedici RRs Are Coming!

Attention all Ducati sportsbike fans in North America! Why? Ducati North America recently announced that more Desmosedici RR MotoGP replicas will be produced and made available to buyers in the North American market.

They likely will not be cheap. In early 2008 they were being sold for $70,000 USD. At that price, buyers must really be fans to pick one up. Read more here at Canadian Motorcycle News.

Database Helps European Riders

Europe, being an amalgamation of countries and laws can be tremendously confusing for any motorcyclist. Those who ride in Europe now have help from TISPOL, The European Traffic Police Association.

Going from country to country can be quite confusing with different laws and speed limits. Not knowing the countries' laws and regulations can not only put the rider at risk of a ticket but can also put them in danger of having an accident. More information is brought to us by Mike Werner and can be read here at motorbiker.org

Help the AMA Name Road Rider of the Year

The American Motorcycle Association needs your help! Until January 31, 2009 they are accepting nominations for the prestigious AMA Road Rider of the Year award.

AMA staff with varied backgrounds will evaluate the nominees with both subjective and objective criteria. Typically this award is given to recognise a lifetime of riding achievements. However, recent activities and accomplishments will hold a great amount of weight.

Previous winners of this award include Dennis Schaeffer (2006), Ron and Jill Andrews (2005), Piet Boonstra (2002) and Marilyn Vershure (1991). For more information, browse to the AMA website.

Riding France

This is the first in a running series of articles that highlight certain riding attractions in different parts of the world. This inaugural article will highlight France's fabulous Pyreneese Mountains.

When most people think of France, it is of fine wine, or of the people and their language, or of Normandy Beach. Motorcyclists and adventurers think of the French Pyreneese Mountains. The Pyreneese Mountain range forms a natural geological border between France and its southern neighbor, Spain.

Even older than the Alps, the Pyreneese mountains are even mentioned in Greek Mythology. This is an area where most any adventurer could enjoy themselves. Mountaineering, bicycling, backpacking, skiing, hiking and motorcycle riding are all quite popular in the area.

Accommodations range from primitive camping to inns that are more than a century old. The beginning rider should consider riding a smaller, road friendly bike and staying on the tarmac. With the fantastic views and deep history, there are plenty of adventures not far from the road.

Anyone deciding to take the next step, riding a dual-sport off the beaten path should check with authorities and riders in the area. The Pyreneese National Park has a great website that may answer several questions for first time visitors.

Motorcycle rentals are available from companies such as Moto Provencale.

Buy a Buff Online!

As an addendum to the Product Alert about Buff Multifunctional Headwear, there is a place to purchase them on-line. Simply browse over to buyabuff.com and enjoy. Prices are inexpensive and there are a HUGE number of designs.

Some Global Motorcycle Statistics

Did you know that motorcycle theft is on a large decline? Did you know that the United States has the highest person -to- motorcycle ratio? In Malaysia, there is one motorcycle for every three people!

If you like motorcycle and scooter statistics, there are a few here at webBikeWorld. Not enough to be very satisfying, but just right for a cup of tea or coffee.

MSF and Germany's General German Automobile Association

Just recently the Motorcycle Safety Foundation of the United States and the General German Automobile Association of Germany agreed to collaborate on several motorcycle safety projects.

"With more than 15 million members, the General German Automobile Association, also known as ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobile Club), offers advanced riding and driving courses and is Germany's, and Europe's, largest automobile club. It is also the largest motorcyclist association in the world.

Once approved by the Army Service Component Command, U.S. military personnel and their families will be able to enroll in any one of four advanced ADAC riding courses recognized by the MSF, as well as the MSF Experienced RiderCourse, and receive the MSF Experienced RiderCourse completion card to satisfy the military's requirements for ongoing rider training. Regulations for the U.S. Army in Europe require that all military riders complete the MSF Basic RiderCourse or the MSF Experienced RiderCourse every three years."

The complete article is here on MotorcycleUSA.com

More Women Riders - It's a Good Thing!

According to the Los Angeles Times, a recent study shows that an influx of women riders have driven the recent increase of motorcycle sales. The Motorcycle Industry Council's 2008 Owner's Survey also showed some other interesting trends in the world of motorcycling, like "Sales of cruisers, sport bikes, tourers and off-highway or dirt models are all down in 2008 compared with last year, but scooters and dual sports (bikes that can be ridden on the street or off-road) have seen 50% and 30% gains, respectively."

The entire thing can be read here at the Los Angeles Times.

Product Alert! Buff Multifunctional Headwear.

Shoganai from ADVRider brought this company's products to my attention. They produce fine quality headgear for all types of adventurers. Their items are versatile; many functioning as a scarf, balaclava, mask, bonnet or even neckercheif. They are sold throught the world and are reasonably priced.

So, if you or the adventurer in your life need some quality gear to provide protection from winter chills, check them out at www.buff.es

Motorcycle Tours

As the fall weather brings a close to this year's motorcycle riding season, many look to next year's rides. The more adventurous riders persist and push the season onward, donning layer and layer of clothing. While those brave few are out challenging hypothermia, hundreds of thousands are inside, dreaming of warm summer days.

A great way for a budding adventure rider to gain skill and confidence is to go on a guided tour. And, really, those who have ridden around the proverbial block once or a dozen times might find a guided tour relaxing and low stress.

The next best thing to riding, could likely be thinking about riding. Interested in trying something new? Want to go for a ride and know someone is watching out for you? Kick back in your warm home while the fall and winter wind howl. Thinking of the fun you may have next riding season just may be the thing to stop that twitchy throttle hand.

Here is a list of some popular tour companies in the US and Canada.

• Pashnit Motorcycle Tours - Are you interested in a little California two lane asphalt riding? Pashnit has it for you!
• Northeastern Motorcycle Tours - The North Eastern part of the US offers some of the best twisty asphalt riding anywhere. They tour through picturesque Vermont, Massachusetts and the Adirondacks. They also offer tours of Maritime Canada!
• Elite Motorcycle Tours - Want something really challenging? These folks offer offer off-road adventures in Moab, Utah and Western Colorado. Go on one of their rides and you may well yell "Got Dirt?" at the end.
• Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Tours - Want to mix it up in the Rockies? These tours are for you. Rocky Mountain asphalt and small one lane mountain roads are their forte.
  
• Nevada Motorcycle Adventures - These tours are not for the faint of heart. Do your motorcycle dreams involve stark yet beautiful landscapes and a dual-sport or off-road bike? This might be the kind of tour for you.
• Alaska Rider Motorcycle Tours - Do you really want to get out there? Try these folks out and go for a ride in Alaska. Not only do they offer guided tours, but they offer many other things like unguided tours, ride support and motorcycle rental. They are definitely a full-service touring company.
• Blue Ridge Motorcycle Adventures - These folks are a full service tour company with motorcycle rental and support services. The also offer support for charity rides.

There are a many more tour companies that offer a complete range of services. While sipping coffee, thinking of your upcoming motorcycle adventures, give tours a though.

Rentals make Southern California roads easier to ride?

Well, according to this article at Clutch and Chrome, a certain motorcycle rental company is indeed making Southern California roads easier to ride:
"People visiting California don't want to rent a car to drive somewhere to rent a motorcycle," says Jack Reynolds, President of WeRentMotorcycles.com, "They want the bike and gear delivered to their hotel so nothing cuts into their riding time."

The folks at We Rent Motorcycles also offers guided and self-guided tours. Read all of the info here at Clutch and Chrome.

In the News: Bike Bandit

Popular on-line motorcycle part and supply company Bike Bandit was in the San Diego Business Journal earlier this month. According to the article, Bike Bandit ships out more than 10,000 parts per day! Browse here and read the entire article.

Winter Bike Storage Tips

Well, it is that time already in much of the US. Snow. The nemesis of motorcycle riders almost everywhere. Some brave riders do indeed accept the challenge of cold, snowy, icy riding but winter riding is definitely not easy and meant for everyone.

Only skilled riders should venture out into the snow and ice and cold weather. Those not skilled enough or not willing to take their bikes out into the elements of a sub-freezing winter day should properly store their bikes. Parking it in the garage for three months is just asking for trouble.

Here are some things that will help your two wheeled pride and joy hibernate safely through the winter.

• Battery - Letting a battery sit in a bike over the winter is a perfect invitation for it to be dead come springtime. Minimally, disconnect your battery from the bike and bring it indoors, out of the freezing temperatures. If you can't get it out of the winter elements, be sure to clean the terminals and attach it to a battery tender or trickle charger. Even if you do bring the battery indoors, a trickle charger is a good idea.
• Exhaust - Give a couple sprays of WD-40 into the ends of the exhaust pipes. This helps keep water from forming and causing rust. You can also wrap a baggie around the ends of the pipes to help keep out moisture.
• Fuel System - Fill the tank and make sure the petcock is turned off. Use some sort of fuel stabilizer like SeaFoam. Follow the directions carefully and make sure it is safe for motorcycle usage.
• Oil - Make sure you change your oil just before storage.
• Drive Train - Inspect the chain and be sure it is completely and amply lubricated. For bikes with shaft or belt drives, read your manual for specific instructions.
• External - CLEAN your bike. That means a nice complete washdown, including wax on painted parts, chrome cleaner on the chrome areas and degreaser on the engine.
• Fluids - Ensure brake, clutch and coolant are clean and fairly fresh. Change if necessary. Test the coolant to be sure it will not freeze given the lowest possible temperatures you may have.
  
• Tires - Ensure the tires are correctly inflated to the proper pressure. If your bike has a center stand, use it. If not, try to prop up the bike on wooden blocks so that the tires are not touching the ground.
• Covers - Bikes being stored outside may be better off with no covering at all. Covered bikes outside can cause water to condense on the bike and cause rusting. If storing a bike indoors, a simple, breathable cover is best.

These are not 100% guaranteed to keep your bike in super working order over the winter. Just a few helpful hints that may help.

Harley Owners Group Announces 2009 Events

The Harley Owners Group (HOG) has released their 2009 National and Touring Rally Schedule. Oklahoma City, OK has been selected for their 2009 CLUB H.O.G. This is the annual world wide get-together of HOG owners and should not be missed. If you love the rumble of a Harley, you may want to plan on being in Oklahoma City, OK on June 26 and 27. Read the press release here, at Total Motorcycle.

Proper Countersteering

Counter steering is a very important aspect of safe, effective motorcycle riding. This YouTube video from IanJSeattle describes and demonstrates the proper technique. After watching it, take your bike to a nice, safe, unpopulated parking lot and practice, practice, practice.

Testing 123

Moto Today will be a place to find interesting daily articles, links and information pertaining to the lifestyle of motorcycling. Whether you ride a Harley or Honda; a Moto Guzzi or BMW; Kawasaki or Suzuki, this will be a great place to get information and links.


For the next week, this site will be under massive development and will likely change. As the design is fine-tuned, an official 'opening date' will be announced. Please stand-by while we change the oil, adjust the forks and air up the tires.