Take these Haggling Tips to the Motorcycle Dealerships
June 12, 2014
There are few things more stressful and time-consuming than getting a good price out of sleazy motorcycle dealers. However, with these tips for haggling on your first bike you can get the price you want and come out ahead of the game.
1. Look mean. That is, don’t be pleasant. Don’t smile and don’t be nice. A recent study revealed that putting on an “angry face” resulted in more successful negotiating.
2. Negotiate price first. Even you are planning on financing, or possibly trading in another vehicle, you will want to negotiate a price based on what the dealer is willing to sell it for. That way, you will know how much they add or subtract from the original price when it actually comes time to pay.
3. Research dealers’ actual cost for the motorcycle. Then add $500 and set that as your maximum price. Start lower, of course, but don’t plan on going any higher than $500 over what the dealer pays.
4. Take frequent breaks. Just say you need to think about it, drive off and come back after a good meal or even a good night’s rest. You have all the time in the world, so use it to get the best deal.
5. Be prepared to “walk”. No matter how much work you’ve put into it. They’ll call you. Trust us.
Getting the right bike for the right price is something that many new buyers don’t take the time to do properly. However, with these helpful tactics you’re sure to get a good deal on your new motorcycle. Good luck!
Bikers and the Highway Trust Fund
June 11, 2014
Motorcyclists may face rough road conditions in the years to come. With Congress dragging its feet on the new highway bill, the Highway Trust Fund will have to slow reimbursements to states for highway projects, as well as funding for awareness campaigns and safety measures.
How will this legislation (or lack of legislation) affect motorcyclists specifically?
Well first of all, road construction and maintenance will come to a halt in many cities. That means more potholes for bikers to avoid, and more asphalt cracks that could lead to a serious need for road repair. Local city planners are already struggling to deal with short-term maintenance as well as long-term road projects. Without funding for long-term road projects, traffic congestion is projected to rise as well.
Also at issue is the fight against motorcycle-only checkpoints. Without any revisions to the current highway bill, motorcyclists can expect to continue to be discriminated against when traveling cross-country, making touring and motorcycle events more difficult.
The Recreational Trails Program is due to expire, and without re-authorization, the RTP will lose its authority to issue grants to fund off-highway-vehicle projects and trails.
Finally, motorcycle safety programs under 23 U.S.C. § 402 and § 405 no longer would be authorized. These programs provide grants to states for the motorcycle safety training and anti-distracted driving campaigns that have proven extremely effective in reducing motorcycle deaths in the last few years.
Besides the dire effects on the motorcycle community, the entire country is expected to suffer a loss of 700,000 jobs if the U.S. House of Representatives does not act. The Senate passed its portion of the bill on May 15, and the House version is expected sometime in July.
New Motorcycle Owners: A Beginner’s Guide
June 10, 2014
Spring and summer is prime time for newbies to begin their adventures in motorcycling. However, before you hit the road be sure to go through this new motorcycle owners’ checklist to survive your first year on two wheels.
1. Educate Yourself. Even if you have already passed your motorcycle license test, taking a motorcycle safety course will improve your riding skills. This is not just a matter of safety (which of course is the most important), but also a matter of competency. The more you know, the fewer rookie mistakes you commit, and therefore the less stupid you will look during this first season of riding.
2. Don’t Forget ATGATT. All The Gear All The Time is an essential mantra for beginning and experienced bikers alike. Even in the summer time, it is important to wear gloves, boots, riding pants and riding jackets, as well as a helmet. In fact, most summer-tailored gear will keep you cooler while riding than just wearing conventional clothes.
3. Be an Easy Rider. There’s no need to street race in your first year of riding. Take it easy, enjoy the cruise and learn the basics before your try to test your limits.
4. Pick the Right Ride. Don’t fall victim to the dealer’s sales pitch. You don’t want a brand new bike, and you certainly don’t want a mean-growling power machine for your first year. Get a decent used motorcycle with low cc’s and a durable frame that you won’t mind getting scratched. More than likely, it will get dropped.
5. Learn Proper Bike Maintenance. A well-maintained bike is a safe bike. Learn how to inspect it, fix it, clean it and prevent wear and tear. Find a trustworthy mechanic to keep your motorcycle in good condition and don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
These 5 essential tips will help all you new motorcycle owners have a fun and safe first season of riding. Enjoy!
Motorcycle Tire Safety From NHTSA
June 9, 2014
Summer is a deadly time for tires, and therefore, a deadly time for motorcyclists. There are only two tires on a motorcycle. Two tires to stand between the biker and the asphalt. To prevent unnecessary deaths, riders should be well educated when it comes to motorcycle tire safety. They should know about PSI, inflation guidelines, adjusting tire pressure, checking for tire damage, and measuring tire tread… among other essential tire safety skills. For new riders, or any rider looking to learn more about motorcycle tire safety, these tips from the NHTSA (Natinoal Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are a good place to start:
http://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/psimotorcycle/pages/McycleTireSafTips.htm
A More Articulate Hand: Armored Gloves with Better Flexibility
June 7, 2014
There is a common conundrum when choosing motorcycle gloves: a decision you must make between true protection and improved flexibility. Traditional gloves allow your fingers more agility and tactile function. Meanwhile, the modern “hand armor” style provides better protection and less tactile control. However, Del Rosario is working on a solution to this age-old dilemma: a glove that allows fingers to move with the freedom of traditional gloves while providing the protection of modern-day hand armor. Just before the company hit the production line, the good folks at gizmodo.com had a few questions to ask. See the full story here:
Summer Motorcycle Tips: The Hidden Dangers of Heat
June 5, 2014
Not many novice riders consider the dangers of long rides in extreme summer heat. Without the proper gear and preparation, a casual country ride can quickly turn into a test in survival skills.
One of the most important things a motorcyclist can do before any cruise is HYDRATE! This is especially true during the summer. Dehydration is exacerbated by sweating, and can lead to a state of mind similar to driving while intoxicated. If you are planning a ride through the desert or hill country – where gas stations are few and far between – be sure to pack some bottled water or an iced down water jug for the trip.
Wearing the right gear is another important aspect of summer riding. Riding in a full-leather getup will result in the sauna-effect, which is sure to fog the mind. So invest in some good summer riding gear, such as mesh jackets and breathable under-armor that can create an air-conditioning effect as you ride.
Motorcyclists can also try to avoid riding during the peak heat hours, around 2 PM to 4 PM. Morning and evening rides are always nice and cool on a motorcycle, so why not just plan accordingly?
These are just a few summer motorcycle tips to think over as the weather warms up, but rest assured, we’ll have more advice for hot weather riding as summer gets into full swing.
Tire Tips for Motorcyclists
June 3, 2014
For those riding on 2 wheels, good tire maintenance is an essential skill. Without reliable tires, your bike becomes a much more dangerous vehicle. That rubber is the only thing that connects your bike to the pavement, and without it, you’ll be churned into 100% Grade A ground beef in no time.
So take some time to read through our helpful list of tire tips to ensure a safe riding season.
- Keep a low pressure tire gauge in your bike at all times. Use it to check your tire pressure every time you fill up with gas, or daily, depending on your driving habits. Keeping your tires correctly inflated improves tire life and bike control, and prevents irreversible tire damage.
- Perform routine inspections. Look for tread wear, debris, bubbles, cracks and tire damage.
- Replace tires sooner than later. If the tread is running below 1 – 2 mm, it’s time to replace. If there is any damage or cracks, it’s time to replace. And usually, it’s time to replace motorcycle tires after a long winter storage.
- Get the right tires. You wouldn’t put racing tires on a Harley cruiser, and you wouldn’t want touring tires on your off road bike. Be sure to research which tires are best for your motorcycle before making a purchase.
Keep these “tire tips for motorcyclists” at the top of your brain throughout the riding season, and be sure to share your knowledge with other riders.
Summer Motorcycle Jackets: Best of the Mesh
June 2, 2014
Today we’re sharing a great piece for all bikers in need of a cool summer motorcycle jacket. RideApart.com has put together a mighty fine list of mesh motorcycle jackets for under $300, complete with pics, reviews and comments to give buyers all the info they need. See the full post here:
http://rideapart.com/2013/08/the-best-mesh-motorcycle-jackets-under-300/
Summer Motorcycle Pants
May 31, 2014
It’s really starting to heat up these days, and a good set of summer motorcycle gear is a must. In case you missed the last post on summer motorcycle boots you can click here. Otherwise, let’s continue to work our way up and discuss summer motorcycle pants.
Summer motorcycle pants come in a variety of materials: from perforated leather pants to mesh-textile combos that allow for exceptional airflow. A good pair of pants will feature reinforcements in impact areas, giving you the perfect combination of comfort and safety.
To browse a great selection of summer motorcycle pants, check out the link below:
Summer Motorcycle Boots
May 29, 2014
Summer riding is a spectacular experience… if you have the right gear. When it comes to summer riding gear, there are endless considerations to take into account. So, let’s just start at the bottom and work our way up.
Summer motorcycle boots are a great investment for hot weather riding. Hot feet are uncomfortable and, well, stinky. So today we’re sharing a helpful buying guide for summer motorcycle boots. This comprehensive post over at motorcyclenews.com will tell you all you need to know to keep those feet cool this summer: