Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Web site. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.
See Kelly on his Honda Gold Wing.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Pictures of the Week - Kelly (K-man)
Polar Bear Grand Tour in the Pine Barrens
Another rainy day! This is supposed to be the Polar Bear season. Even though it's now officially winter, it continues to be more like spring with 58 degree temperatures.
This was our first run to the Sweetwater Casino. It's located in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey in the middle of nowhere right next to the Mullica River. The place is big enough to hold the Polar Bears when we show up in force. They even have motorcycle parking up front on concrete -- this works fine except when the Polar Bears show up.
Here are pictures and videos from this rainy run.
Big Dog Motorcycles Recalls Bulldog, Chopper, K-9, Mastiff, and Mutt for Fender Defect
Big Dog Motorcycles has issued a recall of certain 2005 and 2007 Bulldog models, 2005-2007 Chopper models, 2006-2008 K-9 models, 2005-2008 Mastiff models and 2008 Mutt models.
On certain motorcycles, the rear fender strut attaching bolts can fail allowing the rear fender to detach from the motorcycle. This could occur without prior warning and could result in an injury or a crash.
8061 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Big Dog Motorcycles, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Honda Recalls 2006-2007 CBR1000RR for Fuel Leak
Honda has issued a recall of certain 2006-2007 CBR1000RR motorcycles.
Certain motorcycles have an improper welded vent pipe in the bottom of the fuel tank. Due to vibration the improperly welded tanks may crack and drip fuel. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.
25422 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Honda, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Top 8 Motorcycle Views Blog Posts for 2007
The top eight Motorcycle Views Blog posts have been selected from a total of 150 posts made in 2007. These eight blog posts were chosen for a variety of reasons.
If you haven't been a regular reader of the Motorcycle Views Blog, you may be missing important information about motorcycling. You might also be missing some of the personal aspects of my life that may give you a chuckle or an insight into my take on motorcycling.
Check out my picks for the Top 8 Motorcycle Views Blog posts for 2007.
Labels: motorcycle blogs, motorcycles
Top 10 Motorcycle Pictures of the Year for 2007 from Motorcycle Views
The top ten motorcycle pictures were picked from pictures submitted to Motorcycle Views in 2007. The pictures are not ordered.
They include four pictures of women on motorcycles, four pictures of men on motorcycles, and two pictures of motorcycles only.
The pictures were chosen for a variety of reasons. I looked at each picture, read each description, and picked those pictures that held my interest.
Check out the Top 10 Pictures for 2007.
Triumph Recalls Sprint ST and Tiger for Luggage Rack Problem
Triumph has issued a recall of certain 2004-2008 Tiger and 2005-2008 Sprint ST motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles equipped with an optional accessory luggage rack, undersized washers were used which prevents the sliding carriage from moving as intended. Reduced stability can occur if the motorcycle is ridden with the fitted accessory, exceeded maximum weight, and at speeds far in excess of the 80 mph limit warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
3698 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: motorcycle recalls, motorcycles, Triumph
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - VaRyder
See VaRyder with his Victory Vision Tour.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Motorcycles, Medical Problems and Christmas
Labels: GWRRA, motorcycles, polar bear runs
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Harleymike56
See Harleymike56 on his Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200. Mike is also a member of my Motorcycle Views Forum.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
arab girl photos
Labels: beautiful arabic girls
Motorcycle Santa - The Game
Recently, I mentioned in this blog that I had written five children's stories about a special character, Motorcycle Santa. I have just finished writing the sixth story in this series. It's based on a true incident in my life. I hope you'll enjoy this story of a little girl who is awakened by the arrival of Motorcycle Santa as he is placing gifts under her tree. Santa agrees to open one present for the girl to get her to go back to bed. The girl startles Santa by devising a game that uses the gift in a new way. I hope you enjoy "Motorcycle Santa - The Game."
Labels: motorcycle santa, motorcycle stories, motorcycles
Polar Bear Grand Tour Meets the Winter Head-on
A winter storm was approaching the PA, NJ, NY region this morning. Since I was still unable to put a helmet on owing to my two recent surgeries and I also had two of my grandchildren spending Saturday and Sunday with us, I was not going to the Polar Bear Grand Tour run to Montgomeryville, PA.
Labels: motorcycle pictures, motorcycles, polar bear runs
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Jeff
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Web site. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Jeff on his Harley-Davidson FXRS.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Motorcycle Daredevil Evel Knievel Dies
The end of an era. Evel Knievel has died in Clearwater, FL.
According to Mitch Stacy, AP, "Evel Knievel, the red-white-and-blue-spangled motorcycle daredevil whose jumps over Greyhound buses, live sharks and Idaho's Snake River Canyon made him an international icon in the 1970s, died Friday. He was 69."
Makes me feel old. I'm also 69. I thought he was older. In recent years his son Robbie has carried on his exploits.
Read the complete story.
Here's a YouTube video of Evel pronouncing his faith -- a different side of the man who lived life on his own terms.
Labels: Evel Knievel, motorcycles
Polar Bear Grand Tour Visits the Hillbilly Hall
Labels: motorcycle pictures, motorcycles, polar bear runs
Motorcycle Santa Stories
Labels: motorcycle santa, motorcycle stories, motorcycles
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Dragon Rider
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Web site. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Dragon Rider on his Honda Gold Wing.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Privacy statements
I don’t directly set cookies from http://bikepicts.blogspot.com/, but I do run a number of scripts from providers such as Google to serve the third-party ads. All of these set web browser cookies.
As this blog is intended for sharing information, pictures and also technical review of any bikes, if one of you own the contents in this blog and willing to remove please drop me a message at betacom.sales@gmail.com, immedietly I will remove the contents.
Labels: Privacy statements
Hot Sexy Stars on Motorcycles
Glam.com has an article and pictures about seven well-known stars of TV, music, and the movies who also ride motorcycles. They have some of my favorites including Vanessa Marcil of the TV show Las Vegas. Read the article and view the pictures. I blogged about this three months ago but many may not have seen it. I actually had forgotten that Vanessa was in this gallery and I just saw Keith Urban on Good Morning America today.
Stars have always ridden motorcycles. Check out my article, Famous Motorcyclists, for a few more riders who are not in the news anymore.
Do you know any other famous riders and what they ride? Tell us by leaving a comment, below.
Veteran's Day on the Polar Bear Grand Tour
Picture © 2007 Walter Kern
Labels: motorcycle pictures, motorcycles, polar bear runs
World's Largest Motorcycle Must Be Seen to Be Believed
I just had to display this YouTube video that shows the World's Largest Motorcycle. I'm not sure why anyone would want to spend $300,000 to create it but this guy thought it worth his time, talent, and treasure to bring it to the world.
Labels: motorcycle videos, motorcycles, YouTube
Falling Leaves and Motorcycles
Labels: motorcycles, trikes
Suzuki Recalls GS500 and GZ250 Motorcycles for Electrical Problem
Suzuki has issued a recall of certain 2004-2007 GS500 and 2002-2007 GZ250 motorcycles.
The rear reflex reflector on affected GS500 motorcycles and the rear and side reflex reflectors on affected GZ250 motorcycles fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard No. 108, 'Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.' The reflex reflectors have a reflected light output at some measurement angles that is less than the minimum output required by the standard. It is possible that this could contribute to a motorist's not noticing the motorcycle in darkness, which may contribute to a crash.
28221 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: motorcycle recalls, motorcycles, Suzuki
Victory Recalls 2008 Vision Motorcycles for Electrical Problem
Victory has issued a recall of certain 2008 Vision motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, the voltage regulator/rectifier assembly may have an overcharging condition. An overcharging situation in conjunction with the loose battery connection could cause a stalling condition. An unexpected loss of engine power could cause a loss of control of the motorcycle increasing the risk of a crash.
326 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: motorcycle recalls, motorcycles, Victory
First Yamaha Motorcycle 1955
In 1955 when Yamaha developed its first motorcycle, the Yamaha YA-1, there were about 150 motorcycle makers struggling to compete in Japan's young motorcycle industry, and Yamaha Motors was the last company to enter the fray. At this time, the company had 274 employees working in two single-story wooden buildings that served as factories where they produced about 200 motorcycles a month.
Labels: Yamaha Motorcycle
'07-'08 Polar Bear Grand Tour - Lewes, DE
Yesterday (Sunday) was the second run in the Polar Bear Grand Tour season. The motorcycle run was to Lewes, DE, the destination farthest south of all our runs. Since this is a long run, many riders choose to come down on Saturday and stay for the night. There was a large coastal storm sweeping up the east coast on Saturday. The storm had high winds but was located off-shore. Some riders normally staying overnight chose to cancel their Saturday plans and make the complete round-trip on Sunday. I was in that group.
Jane and I rode our trikes with some new Polar Bear riders from our local Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) Chapter NJ-F group. The run started at 8 a.m. with six bikes in the group and ended for us at 6 p.m. in the dark on the first day that Eastern Standard Time (EST) became effective for the winter. All our communication was via CB radio and our lead and drag riders kept the group together with a minimum of difficulties.
Pictures and descriptions for the Lewes run are located on the Polar Bear Grand Tour Web site. Take a look. The picture, above, shows a bike that was at Lewes and has many special features including footpegs made out of old pistons.
Labels: motorcycle pictures, motorcycles, polar bear runs
Motorcycle Trikes Becoming Popular
Labels: motorcycles, trikes
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Cat Ballou and Ian
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Transportation Secretary, Mary Peters, Wants to Lower Motorcycle Deaths
Today, Transportation Secretary Mary Peters has announced new initiatives to support motorcyclists. Peters is, herself, a motorcyclist. According to USA TODAY, she has proposed a new plan that includes:
- Training. DOT will develop national standards for entry-level motorcycle riders to achieve what Peters calls "a baseline of competency."
- Enforcement. DOT will create a training program to teach police officers about specific efforts to reduce crashes.
- Education. Public Service Announcements will feature Peters on the importance of helmets and other protective gear. A "Share the Road" campaign will remind drivers to be alert for motorcyclists.
Check out the complete story and offer your comments on this new plan, below.
2007-2008 Polar Bear Grand Tour - Cape May, NJ
Take a look at all the pictures I took, including two short videos.
My riding group encountered a very bad accident on the Garden State Parkway on the way down to Cape May. I believe it was just before the Toms River toll plaza. Traffic was halted in both directions of the Parkway while rescue helicopters landed and transported the injured. We were within 100 yards of the accident and many people got out of their cars and off their motorcycles to observe. I took a few pictures of that too.
Labels: motorcycle pictures, motorcycles, polar bear runs
Pictures of the Week - Cindy and Michael
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
100 Years of Harley-Davidson: A Picture Gallery
Harley-Davidson began selling motorcycles in 1903. In 2003, the Motor Company celebrated its 100th anniversary.
We present here a look at Harley-Davidson models over these 100 years as provided by visitors to the main Motorcycle Views site. A gallery called "100 Years of Harley-Davidson" is provided that gives a picture and description for each model year from 1903 to 2003.
Some years are vacant and await your submissions. Take a look.
Labels: Harley-Davidson, motorcycle pictures, motorcycles
47 Years of Harley-Davidson Sportster: A Picture Gallery
Harley-Davidson began selling motorcycles in 1903. In 1957, Harley-Davidson introduced the Sportster. It has continued in production ever since.
We present here a look at Harley-Davidson Sportster models from the first model in 1957 to the present as provided in pictures submitted by visitors to the Motorcycle Views Web site. A gallery called 47 Years of Sportster is provided that gives a picture and description for each model year from 1957 to 2003.
The gallery is not complete. If you own a Sportster, consider sending a picture and description of it to be considered for inclusion in the gallery.
Labels: Harley-Davidson, motorcycle pictures, Sportster
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - CC Rider and Vicki Gray
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Kawasaki Issues Recall of KL650 Models for Loose Muffler Bolts
Kawasaki has issued a recall of certain 2002-2007 KL650A and 2008 KL650E motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, insufficient tightening of the muffler mounting bolts could allow the bolts to loosen. If the bolts loosen completely, it is possible for the muffler to separate from the motorcycle and create the potential for a crash.
33365 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Kawasaki, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Ducati Recalls 2007 Monster S4RS for Cooling Defect
Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2007 Monster S4RS motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, the water impeller does not turn due to the installation of an incorrect layshaft. Improper operation of the water pump could occur causing overheating of the engine components and possibly engine seizure. If the engine stopped while the motorcycle was being driven, it could increase the risk of a crash.
Only eight (8) units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Ducati, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Women Riders Video
Here's a great visual and musical video called SHOCKING BLUE -HARLEY DAVIDSON/ GET IT ON (69/75). It's all about women on motorcycles. Not to be missed. (See other videos by the same author and read some details about the content of this video by clicking here.)
Be sure to also check out my own Women Riders subject that includes a Women on Motorcycles Picture Gallery.
Labels: motorcycle videos, motorcycles, women riders
Ducati Recalls 2008 Hypermotard for Electrical Problem
Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2008 Hypermotard motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, the battery can move side to side inside the fuel tank mounting compartment. This movement could result in main wiring harness damage at the battery terminal. This condition could cause an electrical short consequently stopping the engine. If the engine stops while the motorcycle is being driven, it could increase the risk of a crash.
385 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Ducati, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Vintage, Antique, and Classic Motorcycle Pictures
Labels: antique motorcycles, BMW, motorcycle pictures, motorcycles
Demystify Motorcycle Specification Terms
On my old forum, people would constantly ask for the definitions of motorcycle terms used in typical motorcycle specifications found on the Internet and in motorcycle magazines. These were usually newbies but not always.
I decided to prepare a set of definitions that could be used by almost anyone to help decipher motorcycle specs.
These definitions of terms should be easier to understand by riders who would rather ride than learn the technical complexities of their machines. Bear in mind that whole books could be written about each term. We are only touching the basics.
Check out my Motorcycle Specifications - Definitions of Terms as contained on my Motorcycle Views Web site.
Go Daddy Founder Saved by Proper Riding Apparel
Somewhat old story but I just saw it. Bob Parsons, founder of Go Daddy, relates his recent experience riding his Ducati when he was forced to severely brake and went down. He attributes his minimal injuries to ATGATT (All The Gear All The Time). Read his account from his own Web site.
Also, be sure to read my Basic Gear for a Motorcycle Beginner for more information.
Labels: motorcycle apparel, motorcycle safety, motorcycles
Motorcycle Road Tests Index
I just added 13 motorcycle road test entries to my Motorcycle Road Tests Index.
These give information about where you can find the actual motorcycle road tests in the major motorcycle magazines. Also given are links to online motorcycle road tests.
Check out the following links, just added:
2008 Models: H-D Rocker C, Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS, and Kawasaki KLR650
2007 Models: Benelli TnT 1130, BMW F800ST, Ducati 1098S, Ducati Multistrada 1100S, Kawasaki Z1000, KTM 450 EXC, Kymco Xciting 500, Moto Guzzi Norge 1200, Suzuki Bandit 1250S ABS, and Suzuki GSX-R1000.
Labels: Benelli, BMW, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki, KTM, Kymco, Moto Guzzi, motorcycle road tests, Suzuki
BMW Recalls 2005-2007 K1200R Sport Motorcycles for Front Brake Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2005-2007 K1200R Sport motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, during long periods of riding at sustained high engine RPM, vibration within the brake fluid reservoir can cause the brake fluid to foam. This could allow air to enter the front brake system which could lead to a loss of front braking efficiency. Air in the brake system can lead to a loss of braking capability, increasing the risk of a crash.
510 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: BMW, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
How to Start and Move a Motorcycle
Beginners can start and move a motorcycle.
This feature gives descriptions and pictures of the steps required to move a motorcycle or start a motorcycle. I'm not talking about shipping a motorcycle. I'm talking about simply moving a motorcycle a short distance. An example might be a case where the rider of a bike has parked it in the garage amidst considerable adjoining boxes, crates, ladders, and other accumulated stuff that might be contained in a garage. Let's say the rider is out of town or even serving in the armed forces and the spouse needs to move the motorcycle to complete a repair to the house. The rider cannot be reached. The job must be done. What is the spouse to do?
Another case might be a new rider who has just purchased a motorcycle and wants to get to know the motorcycle better. Now, bear in mind that I highly recommend that such a rider enroll in a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course and learn the fundamentals the correct way. That's certainly the way I learned, but I did have my own motorcycle at the time which I did not know how to ride. I also wanted to get to know the motorcycle better before I took the course. I had all the basic questions all newbie riders have. I wanted to know how to start the motorcycle, get it in gear, and ride short distances in first or second gear -- at least to the end of my driveway and back.
This article gives you a 10-step procedure to move a motorcycle without the need to start it. The article also gives you a 10-step procedure to move a motorcycle by pressing the start button, putting it in gear, and moving it under its own power.
Remember at all times that a motorcycle is a machine that responds quickly to human commands made by the hands or the feet. You should learn basic operations slowly and safely. These are best left to the experts as they teach you in the MSF course.
Steps given here are done at your own risk. There is always the chance that the motorcycle will fall over or you will not be able to control it.
10-Step Procedure to Move a Motorcycle By Starting It and Putting It In Gear
10-Step Procedure to Move a Motorcycle Without Starting It
Labels: motorcycles, move motorcycle, start motorcycle
Honda Takes Steps to Provide an Automatic Transmission for Motorcycles
Honda Motor Co., Ltd, Japan, has unveiled a new automatic transmission, the Human-Friendly Transmission (HFT), a new automatic transmission system for motorcycles using Honda’s own infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission.
Motorcyclists have ridden with standard transmissions for over 100 years. Although there have been some automatics along the way, they never proved popular with riders who want to make their own gear changes. Scooters come with automatics and they seem to be popular with some riders.
Could this be the next big breakthrough in motorcycling? Read this news release from Honda for all the details.
Motorcycle Left-Turner Accidents - Don't Be a Statistic
I've been harping on safe riding for years. I even wrote 10 Ways To Be Safe on a Motorcycle. Apparently, even with my audience at About.com, I didn't reach enough riders. Another rider just lost his life only two miles from my house. He struck a left turning driver.
Please read my article and pass it on to your friends, even those who don't ride. We need to save a few lives and it all starts with you.
Reading a newspaper account of an accident like this always leaves the reader with questions about just what were the conditions under which the accident occurred. We've all heard reports that the driver didn't see the bike at all. Well, there are conditions where the sun is in your eyes and blocks out the rider. Or, some part of the structure of the car blocks your vision. I know this happens. I have to move forward, back, and side-to-side sometimes to be sure I can see the complete roadway when I'm waiting to turn in my car. And the small profile of a motorcycle coming at you is hard to see even under good conditions. Of course, these days, the possibility of the driver having a cell phone in their ear doesn't help at all.
I don't want to leave the motorcycle rider out here. We, as riders, don't always look out for ourselves. We know that we need to consider ourselves invisible to other drivers (and motorcyclists). That means always riding with space around us and constantly practicing defensive riding. Anticipate what a driver will do and allow space in case they do what you expect.
In the case of trying to prepare for a left-turner in front of you, always make sure you don't ride close to the car in front of you. A left-turner will see the car in front of you but you may be blocked from their view. The left-turner sees the car in front of you pass and makes a sudden left turn and you smash into them.
I heard of another accident where a car waiting to make a left turn did nothing wrong except they had their wheels turned left anticipating the turn when a vehicle behind them crashed into them and forced their car into the oncoming lane killing a motorcyclist. Folks, I thought everyone knew that you never turn your wheels at rest while waiting to turn. Always keep them straight ahead. If you're hit, you won't go into the oncoming lane.
I guess one could go on and on about left-turners and how to prevent motorcycle fatalities. However, I know these accidents will keep happening. But we all can prevent a few from happening. Reading my 10 Ways To Be Safe on a Motorcycle will help to put a few ideas in your head that may save your life. And really, all I'm trying to do is save you and keep you riding and riding and riding until the day you choose to stop riding. Hopefully, that day will never come.
If you have any comments on how to be safe on a motorcycle, leave them below.
Labels: motorcycle accidents, motorcycle safety, motorcycles
Motorcycle Pictures
Labels: motorcycle pictures, motorcycles
Ducati Recalls 1098 for Engine Stalling Problem
Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2007 1098 models.
On certain motorcycles, the electronic control unit (ECU) ignition timing and idle mixture were improperly set during production causing the engine speed to drop and stall the engine when the temperature of the cooling system exceeded 180F. If the engine stops while the motorcycle is being driven, it could increase the risk of a crash.
1516 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Ducati, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Are Motorcycles Safer than Horses?
The old motorcycle helmet debate may be shifting to the equestrian world where many horse riders are being seriously injured since they don't wear helmets or protective apparel. Here's a quote from globeandmail.com:
"Hour-per-hour in the saddle, more riders are seriously injured riding horses than motorcycles.
That is the surprising revelation of a new study from researchers at the University of Calgary.
Equally surprising is that those being hurt and killed are not rookie equestrians but, in large part, veteran riders." -- ANDRÉ PICARD
Read more.
Offer your own comment below.
Labels: motorcycle helmets, motorcycle safety, motorcycles
10 Motorcycle Riders Create Art by Burnout
Last Monday, an unusual art exhibition was held at the Seventh Regiment Armory in New York City. It involved 10 motorcycle stunt riders who rode for seven minutes on 288 panels of painted plywood. So much smoke was expected that a special test run was done with smoke machines to confirm that the air would still be breathable. Here's a quote from the New York Times article by Carol Vogel, entitled, "After Test Runs, an Armory Is Ready to Declare, ‘Artists, Start Your Engines’ ."
"Look, it’s going in the right direction,” said Doreen Remen, a founder of the Art Production Fund, a nonprofit organization that presents unusual public art projects. With her co-founder, Yvonne Force Villareal, and the artist Aaron Young she gazed upward with relief as the smoke began filtering out the open windows along the rafters."
At the actual show played to 500 invited guests including members of the Hells Angels, art history was made. Read more.
Labels: motorcycle art, motorcycles
Two Motorcycle Worlds
This week finds me somewhat between two motorcycle worlds. A few days ago I received the new riding schedule for the 2007-2008 Polar Bear Grand Tour. It’s my job to convert this schedule into something readable on the Polar Bear Grand Tour Web site. Then when the season starts, I take pictures at each run and post them on the site. The season doesn’t start until October 28th, the last Sunday in October. However, over 500 participants will be looking for the new schedule shortly so it’s important that not a lot of time goes by before it’s posted. Unfortunately my wife and I were scheduled to attend a state rally here in NJ for the GWRRA (Gold Wing Road Riders Association) so all work on the schedule stopped.
As I’m thinking about winter riding again with the Polar Bears, I see many riders in the north starting to think about slowing down their riding and putting their bikes away. Of course, most riders will prolong this until riding just gets too cold. The Polar Bears see no benefit in putting their bikes away and so don heavy protective clothing, most opting for electrically heated vests, gloves, pants, and even socks as the temperatures drop into the 40s, 30s, 20s, and lower.
Meanwhile, the GWRRA rally turns out to be a pretty late rally falling this year on September 6-8. That’s after Labor Day so people have stopped thinking about vacations and are now concentrating on school and jobs. That means it’s hard to attract people to attend. Next year, this rally will be held in early August.
The GWRRA gathering we attended was small and most of the participants knew each other. Although the organization is divided into chapters located across the state and nation and even internationally, there is considerable interaction of members among chapters. That makes many GWRRA gatherings seem like family reunions to outsiders. That’s what outsiders have remarked after seeing so much hugging and kissing going on as member couples run into each other at functions. Often it’s difficult to go from point A to point B without getting stopped by other couples for lengthy conversations. After one conversation ends you almost immediately run into another couple which starts another conversation. And so it goes.
Of course, historically, GWRRA tends to attract husband and wife riding couples who ride two-up on the same motorcycle. Lately, however, in the last five or six years, I’ve seen a steady increase in the number of women riding their own bikes. Thus, where ten years ago, almost no GWRRA women rode their own bikes but instead chose to ride pillion, now many GWRRA couples have two bikes, a Gold Wing for the husband and a separate bike (not necessarily a Gold Wing) for the wife. The couple concept remains except one bike has been replaced by two in some cases.
There has also been an increase in the number of riders preferring to ride motorcycle trikes. Again, within GWRRA the Gold Wing motorcycle is the basis for the trike with the rear wheel removed and replaced by two automotive wheels and an automotive rear end. The trike part has extra trunk space needed since the normal saddlebags have been removed. Again, in keeping with the need in some cases for both the husband and wife to ride their own motorcycle, some couples have opted to ride individual trikes. Such is the case for my wife and me.
At these small GWRRA gatherings, the standard rally activities occur such as seminars, bike contests, people games, bike games, organized tours, self-guided tours, vendor sales, light parade, entertainment, and awards dinners. There’s plenty of time for socializing, admiring bikes, and eating too. The gathering we attended was heavy on ice cream, birthday and anniversary cakes, laughter, fun, eating, and picture taking. There wasn’t much drinking except for soda, tea, and coffee. That may be the reason that you won’t find many underweight Wingers. Along with all this socializing, the Wingers are very safety conscious taking skill improvement courses all the time to learn how to be safe on the road.
I’m not giving away any inside stories here. If you want to participate in all this fun, you’ll have to join your local GWRRA chapter and go to a rally on your own. However, what happens at GWRRA gatherings can be pretty tame. It’s certainly family oriented. I saw quite a few children who attended with their parents and even two girls who appeared to be about 9-10 years old who won youngest passengers arriving on a motorcycle.
Now, I’m back from the rally and need to get back working on that Polar Bear schedule. Of course, all 500 of us Polar Bears are continually having to explain to outsiders that we don’t go in the water on New Year’s Day. That’s those “other” Polar Bears.
Polar Bear picture by Walter Kern. Cake picture courtesy of Barbara Malone.
Got any comments about your own motorcycle gatherings? Post them below.
Labels: GWRRA, motorcycle rallies, motorcycles, polar bear runs
Big Dog Motorcycles Recalls 2006-2007 Models for Sissy Bar Problem
Big Dog Motorcycles has issued a recall of certain 2006 K-9 and 2007 K-9, Bulldog, and Mastiff models for an equipment problem with an accessory sissy bar.
Certain Big Dog aftermarket sissy bar assemblies were sold as an accessory part for the motorcycles associated with this recall. The sissy bar assemblies may be undersized, allowing excessive movement of the sissy bar. Over time, this could cause the bolts that retain the sissy bar to break allowing the sissy bar to detach from the motorcycle. This condition could occur without warning and could result in injury and/or a crash.
1800 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Big Dog Motorcycles, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
BMW Recalls 2007 G650X Models for Fuel Pump Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2007 Motorcycle models including G650X Challenge, G650X Country, and G650X Moto.
On certain motorcycles, the fuel pump wiring set has not been manufactured according to specification. The contacts in the plug for the fuel pump can break. The fuel pump will fail and fuel delivery to the engine would cease causing the engine to stall increasing the risk of a crash.
764 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: BMW, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Big Dog Motorcycles Recalls 2007 Bulldog for Tachometer Short
Big Dog Motorcycles has issued a recall of certain 2007 Bulldog models.
On certain motorcycles, the tachometer board may have been improperly installed. Improperly installed tachometer boards may develop a short circuit that could cause the motorcycle to shut down. This could occur without prior warning and result in a crash.
181 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Big Dog Motorcycles, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
BMW Recalls 2007 F650 GS Motorcycle for Handlebar Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2007 F650 GS Motorcycle models.
On certain motorcycles, the clamping blocks and the top fork bridge were not manufactured according to specifications. Consequently, the handlebars might not be held securely in position. It is possible for the handlebars to move out of their correct position when the motorcycle is being maneuvered, or when it is being ridden, increasing the risk of a crash.
425 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: BMW, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
BMW Recalls 2007 G650X Models for Chain Tensioner Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2007 Motorcycle models including G650X Challenge, G650X Country, and G650X Moto.
On certain motorcycles, a left-side chain tensioner has been incorrectly installed on the right side. As a result, a hex nut, which is used to secure the chain tensioner, is improperly seated against the tensioner. Loosening of the chain tensioner and the rear wheel axle may occur. This could lead to a condition in which the motorcycle is unstable, increasing the risk of a crash.
173 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: BMW, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Piaggio Recalls 2008 MP3 250RL Motor Scooters for Loose Bolt Problem
Piaggio has issued a recall of certain 2008 MP3 250RL Motorcycles.
On certain motor scooters, the head of the engine attachment bolt (P/N 597080) may break. If the bolt were to break, the engine could become loose and detach itself from the vehicle frame, increasing the risk of a crash.
159 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: motorcycle recalls, motorcycles, Piaggio
Suzuki Issues Recall of 2007 GSX-R1000 Motorcycles for Idle Speed Control Problem
Suzuki has issued a recall of certain 2007 GSX-R1000 Motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, each time the ignition switch is turned off, the engine control module (ECM) pre-sets the position of the idle speed control (ISC) valve for subsequent engine starting by opening the valve completely and then closing it to a start-up position. Due to improper shape of the internal mechanism that moves the ISC valve, the valve may remain in the open position instead of moving to the correct start-up position. This can result in no-load engine idle speeds as high as 5000 rpm the next time the engine is started. If the rider chooses to operate the motorcycle in this condition, the rider may have difficulty operating the motorcycle, which could result in a crash.
13398 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: motorcycle recalls, motorcycles, Suzuki
Honda Issues Recall of 2002-2005 VFR800 Motorcycles for Electrical Problem
Honda has issued a recall of certain 2002-2005 VFR800 models.
On certain motorcycles, the front fairing sub-harness (section of the wiring harness) transfers the electrical grounding load of the headlights, front turn signals, instrument panel, and various relays to the main wiring harness via an 18-pin connector. Under certain conditions, the ground wire terminals inside the connector can overheat, resulting in melting of the connector and a loss of power to various circuits. As a result, a loss of critical lighting or engine power could occur without warning, which could cause a crash.
An unspecified number of units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Honda, motorcycle recalls
Big Dog Motorcycles Recalls 2005-2006 Models for Voltage Regulator Problem
Big Dog Motorcycles has issued a recall of certain 2005 motorcycle models including Bulldog, DT Chopper, Mastiff, N-Chopper, Pitbull, and Ridgeback. Also included in the recall are certain 2006 motorcycle models including Chopper, K-9, Mastiff, Pitbull, and Ridgeback.
On certain motorcycles, a warped bus bar within the voltage regulator can cause a short circuit. This could possibly result in a fire.
7611 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Big Dog Motorcycles, motorcycle recalls
Harry Potter's Motorcycle Rides
Since I was one of the people who started reading the Harry Potter 7-book series just as the new movie based on book 5 came out, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. It turns out that Harry first appears riding on a flying motorcycle in the first book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Then in the last book (book 7) just released, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, he again rides on the same flying motorcycle, this time with an attached sidecar.
The rider of the bike is the character Hagrid, a giant of a man. The owner of the bike is Sirius Black. You'll be following these two main characters throughout the books.
J. K. Rowling's astounding work of fiction took me the better part of six weeks to get all the way through to the end of book 7. You say this is a children's book? Maybe book 1 with 319 pages is but from then on, it gets darker and darker as Harry ages from 11 to 17. Book 7 is 759 pages of pretty much non-stop battle scenes. The new movie, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, is based on book 5 that has 870 pages.
I was startled to see a motorcycle in book 1. When I got to book 7, the motorcycle was there again, this time outfitted for battle.
Harry Potter was a very good read and even better since it had a magic motorcycle in it. Way to go Ms. Rowling.
Motorcycle Forums and Lots More
Motorcycle Views is more than just this blog. It has a newsletter, a main site, and a motorcycle forum.
Signup for the newsletter to keep up-to-date with site changes and important forum discussions. I always have four forum discussions listed in the newsletter.
The main site has most of the content that I created for the old About.com site. I continue to add to that content. I have many features on that site including motorcycle pictures, women on motorcycles, user reviews, motorcycle recalls, motorcycle tattoos, makes and models, and a motorcycle tests index.
My motorcycle forum is now on Delphi and has attracted most of the regulars from the old site. So, if you've missed hearing from a former member, check out the forum and see if they're now in the new forum. This is a very active motorcycle forum with a good mix of experience and we ride all brands of motorcycles. Both men and women riders are represented.
So, be sure to check out the complete site so you don't miss anything.
Motorcycle User Reviews
Labels: motorcycle user reviews, motorcycles
Stars Riding Motorcycles
Here are a few pictures of your favorite stars riding their motorcycles. This comes from Glam.com.
I also have a feature on the Motorcycle Views site called Famous Motorcyclists. Take a look.
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Webcams
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally officially opens today in Sturgis, SD.
Here's a link to my Sturgis article that includes a link to the new Sturgis Webcams. You can see what's going on there via many Webcams trained on the street and updated frequently.
Sturgis is a rally not to be missed. Many go every year. My last trip was in 1993, the year of the floods. This year it may be the year of the heat.
Labels: motorcycle rallies, Sturgis
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Labels: Harley-Davidson, Honda, motorcycle pictures, motorcycles, women riders
Biker Tribute to CBR600 Hottie
I've ridden in a few biker tributes and funeral processions. It's sad to know that a fellow rider has died while riding his or her bike. Here's the story of Sherri Linkous of Largo, FL killed while riding to work on her sportbike on July 17, 2007. Known as CBR600 Hottie, Sherri had friends all over. Read her story on sptimes.com and then view the tribute video, below.
Labels: motorcycle accidents, motorcycle videos, motorcycles
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally - August 6-12
Each year, hundreds of thousands of motorcyclists head toward, what many feel, is the motorcycling mecca of the world -- Sturgis. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota takes place this year August 6-12. Check out my article on this great motorcycle rally. See if you can see me waving in the picture when I attended the 1993 rally. Getting about time to go back at least one more time.
Labels: motorcycle rallies, motorcycles, Sturgis
Harley-Davidson Recalls 2006 VRSCR Models for Exhaust Hazard
Harley-Davidson has issued a recall of certain 2006 VRSCR motorcycles.
Certain motorcycles were built with a condition whereby the pant leg of some riders can have direct contact with the exhaust pipe. This condition could cause the pant leg to char or burn, which could lead to the possibility of injury to the rider.
2403 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Harley-Davidson, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Harley-Davidson Recalls 2006-2007 Sportsters for Exhaust Hazard
Harley-Davidson has issued a recall of certain 2006-2007 Sportster XL1200L and Sportster XL1200N motorcycles.
Certain motorcycles were built with a condition whereby the pant leg of some riders can have direct contact with the exhaust pipe. This condition could cause the pant leg to char or burn, which could lead to the possibility of injury to the rider.
18784 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Harley-Davidson, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles
Family of Dead Motorcyclist Sues Over Lack of Enhanced 911
From the Northwest Herald regarding a suit brought by the family of a motorcyclist who died in a cornfield in Illinois after he was unable to identify his location by cellphone:
"The family of a Capron motorcyclist who rescue workers could not find for hours filed a wrongful death lawsuit Monday against officials from two counties. The man had called 911 from his cell phone after he crashed in a cornfield near Harvard.
An attorney for the family of Kurt A. Regnier alleged McHenry and Winnebago County officials were negligent for not using available funds to promptly upgrade their emergency telephone systems, upgrades that would allow police to pinpoint within 500 feet from where cellular 911 calls were dialed."
This story has received considerable online comments (over 120) with almost every viewpoint represented. The rider was legally drunk according to the story and the county had already received funds to upgrade their 911 service to allow GPS location capability but had not even begun work on the project. Read the details of this tragic story and don't forget to scan through the many comments.
Labels: motorcycle accidents, motorcycles
Harley-Davidson Announces Lineup for 2008
Harley-Davidson has announced its 2008 lineup to include three new models: Dyna Fat Bob, Rocker, and Rocker C.
Also being celebrated in 2008 is the 105th anniversary of Harley-Davidson with many events being planned.
New for 2008 will be an optional Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS).
Here's a link that gives details and also provides a link to the Harley-Davidson site.
Labels: Harley-Davidson, motorcycles
Vespa Recalls 2757 GTS Motorcycles for Brake Problem
Vespa has issued a recall of certain 2006-2007 GTS motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, the graphite exhaust bushing, which seals the connection between the exhaust pipe and the muffler, must be replaced each time the muffler is removed and reinstalled. If the exhaust bushing is not replaced, exhaust gases may be permitted to leak past the bushing. The rear brake hose may be impaired or melted, increasing the risk of a crash.
2757 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: motorcycle recalls, motorcycles, Piaggio, Vespa
Moto Guzzi Recalls 1044 EV Motorcycles for Fork Yoke Defect
Moto Guzzi has issued a recall of certain 2003-2004 EV motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, the lower fork yoke could fail. A crack can form around the lower fork bearing.
1044 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Moto Guzzi, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles, Piaggio
Moto Guzzi Recalls 232 Griso Motorcycles for Fuel Pump Defect
Moto Guzzi has issued a recall of certain 2006-2007 Griso motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, a fuel pump hose may swell and change dimensions, thereby loosening its fit around the fitting at the fuel pump. The fuel pressure could drop. This could cause erratic motor operation, difficulty in starting the vehicle or stalling, increasing the risk of a crash.
232 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Labels: Moto Guzzi, motorcycle recalls, motorcycles, Piaggio