Winter Motorcycle Riding Tips

For Bikers, winter riding is not a simple option. Their bikes hibernate in their garage, with a thick lawyer of grease to protect it until spring arrives once more.

But bike hibernation doesnt need to happen. with a few changes in your riding style and the right kit, you can ride your motorcycle averywhere.

Its important to be cautious while riding in the winter for the many dangers it brings with its beauty. Below are some tips to keep riding, and most importantly be safe while riding in cold weather.

Wrap up against weather

It may sound obvious, but investing in specialist winter riding gear can make a massive difference to your winter warmth and comfort. One-piece leathers are clearly the best as they offer less opportunity for the icy wind to find a way in. If you can't afford these, make sure your layers overlap well.

If you can only invest in one piece of winter kit, then make it a quality pair of gloves. Modern technology has created a range of waterproof, thermally efficient gloves that will keep your hands warm and dry as you ride. Failing that, make sure you keep a spare pair of inner gloves in your pocket so you can change them if they get wet. The wet pair can then dry in your pocket from your body heat ready to be changed again.

Riding in the correct kit is not just a comfort issue either. If you're wet and cold, you will tire more easily and will not respond as sharply to events around you. This is particularly true of cold fingers. Combine these slower reactions with the more hazardous roads of winter, and you've got more potential problems.

Respect the winter roads

From the autumn storms, when rain falls on roads which have accumulated grease and oil all summer, to the treacherous black ice of winter frosts, the riding conditions in winter demand your utmost respect.

The simple advice is to take it easy. Save your carefree open-road riding for those glorious summer mornings. In winter the conditions need as much care as you can muster. Not only will there be much less grip on wet and icy roads, you will also be challenged by the wind and the rain as you ride along. So use your lane, and give yourself space to adapt, adjust, and slow down. And if you have a long ride ahead, plan to stop and warm up along the way.

Stop, revive, and survive

It's worth remembering that poor conditions affect everyone else around you too. Motorists, who struggle to see bikes at the best of times, are even less likely to see you when their windows are misted up. Even pedestrians become a real hazard, as they bow their heads to the rain or hunch up against the cold, leaving them prone to walk out in front of you without looking properly.

Wet Roads

Increase the breaking distance between you and other vehicles to account for wet and greasy road conditions. By increasing your distance you will get minimal spray of other vehicles and will be able to judge and anticipate other road users driving much easier. Watch out for wet leaves on the road. These can make the surface slippery and could make you lose control.

Vision

Bad weather such as fog or even low winter sun can restrict your view. Be aware of the hazards; ride to suit the road conditions. Rider Visibility

Bikers need to be as visible as possible to other road users. By wearing reflective clothing it helps other road users to see you, especially on dark mornings and early evenings. By making contact with drivers using their mirrors, this also makes you visible to the driver.

Signal earlier

Signal earlier to give as much notice as possible to other road users of your intentions.

Lights

Check your lights regularly to make sure they are working. Also ensure your lights are visible and clear of dirt.

Tires

Check your tire pressure to ensure it's suitable for winter riding.

Mirrors

In winter months, use anti-misting spray on your visor and mirrors.

Strong winds

Try to avoid riding in strong winds, however if it is absolutely necessary then be aware of hazardous objects being swept onto the roads such as carrier bags, boxes, branches of trees, cones etc.

If you do have to go out this winter on your bike, stay alert and ride well within your limit.

But For all the problems of winter riding, it still beats standing at a bus stop in the rain, or struggling to de-ice your frozen car every morning. With a little planning and a little care, you'll be enjoying the sunshine of spring before you know it.

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Source: Bennets (AP)

EXCELLENT IDEA OF THE DAY: CUSTOM WOOD HELMETS

While many in the helmet industry are busy finding the latest technological innovations to build new, safer helmets, one man in Oregon is turning to a primitive material to make custom-designed helmets that absorb more energy than the standard plastics: wood.

Dan Coyle has been making helmets (and paddles and even eyeglass frames) since the 1990s, Outside Magazine reports. Now, with some help from Indiegogo, Coyle is selling his Tree Piece Helmets and billing them as "The First Sustainably Built Natural Fiber Bicycle Helmet."

The helmets are made of salvaged wood -- mostly Douglas fir -- and lined with cork, making them more durable than polycarbonate. At 21 ounces, they're heavier than a racing helmet, but on par with a typical recreational helmet. There's some circulation and venting from the cork liner, but the company admits the helmets are generally warmer than plastic.

Although Coyle has had the helmets tested (favorably) at an impact lab, certification calls for large-scale production. He's hoping to get funding for two of his models to be certified through his current Indiegogo campaign.

One of the most frequent questions Coyle gets is, "Won't the wood crack?" The answer is a partial yes, in an accident.

"The cracking that happens in a wood shell as in a foam helmet is energy being diverted into the destruction of the helmet rather than the skull," his website explains. "On the other hand, it is still important that the shell retain some integrity and not fragment. HMVK, the polyurea compound we coat the inside of each shell with, allows the shell to absorb energy without fragmenting in an accident."

One undeniable difference, however? The price tag. The helmets start at $375.

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Source: Discovery News (Eldred, 12/14)

Oklahoma's lack of helmet laws for adult motorcyclists still gets debate

The most recent statistics available from the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office show there were 98 motorcycle fatalities in 2011.

It's the freedom of choice they like.

They ride their motorcycles with the wind in their hair and say helmets shouldn't be required by law.

This is a motocycle helmet worn by Jim Watson, of Edmond, during motorcycle safety training Saturday July 26, 2008 at Edmond Fire Station 5.

Our position is very simple, that helmets are a very good device but it should be our choice whether to wear one.”

John Pierce, Legislative chairman for the American Bikers Active Toward Education In Oklahoma, adults 18 and older don't have to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle, only those younger than 18.

John Pierce, 69, of Collinsville, staunchly defends bikers' choice to wear a helmet. Pierce is the legislative chairman for the American Bikers Active Toward Education, a group of about 1,100 motorcycle enthusiasts in the state.

“Our position is very simple, that helmets are a very good device but it should be our choice whether to wear one,” Pierce said. “We believe we have the right to decide whether to wear a helmet.”

Others say it is a safety issue and helmets should be mandatory. No helmet law increases insurance rates, they say.

The most recent statistics available from the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office show there were 98 motorcycle fatalities in 2011.

Of those killed, 81 percent were not wearing helmets. In 2010, the figures were 78 people killed and 85 percent not wearing helmets.

Oklahoma City police have reported 10 motorcycle fatalities this year. Seven of those people were not wearing helmets, police Capt. Dee Patty said. In 2011, Oklahoma City police worked eight fatal motorcycle crashes; six people who died did not wear helmets, Patty said.

AAA Oklahoma, a company that sells insurance, supports enacting an Oklahoma helmet law to save lives, spokesman Chuck Mai said.

“The proof is there. AAA Oklahoma strongly supports enactment of legislation requiring motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets and encourages all motorcycle riders to educate themselves of the lifesaving qualities of helmet use,” Mai said.

He said motorcycle insurance premiums can be affected by claims in a geographic area.

Texas does not require a helmet for adult riders age 21 and older who have $10,000 medical insurance coverage. Kansas requires motorcycle riders younger than 18 to wear helmets.

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Source: NewsOK (Medly, 12/17)

Motorcycle deaths, injuries cost $16 billion

WASHINGTON— Direct costs from deaths and injuries due to motorcycle crashes were $16 billion in 2010, but the full cost is likely higher because long-term medical expenses are difficult to measure, a government report said.

Motorcyclists are involved in fatal crashes at higher rates than drivers of other types of vehicles, and are 30 times more likely to die in a traffic crash than passenger car occupants, according to the Government Accountability Office report.

In 2010, 82,000 motorcyclists were injured and 4,502 were killed in crashes, the report said. The average cost for a fatal crash was estimated at $1.2 million, while the cost for injuries ranged from $2,500 to $1.4 million depending upon the severity.

It's difficult to determine the full costs with accuracy because some types of costs are difficult to measure, the report said. For example, treating serious injuries can be long and expensive, but follow-up analyses of costs are conducted only for a few years. Also, other consequences of long-term injuries such as changes in employment and living status can't be fully measured, the report said.

Laws requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets are the only strategy proven effective in reducing fatalities and injuries, the report said. Several studies have estimated helmets reduce the risk of death by as much as 39 percent, the report said. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated helmets saved the lives of 1,550 motorcyclists in 2010.

However, there has been strong opposition from motorcycle groups to "universal" helmet laws, and only 19 states have them. Another 28 states have "partial" helmet laws that require only some motorcyclists to wear helmets, usually riders under age 21 or under age 18.

Three states have no helmet laws: Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire. Earlier this year, Michigan legislators repealed that state's helmet requirement for motorcyclists over 21. Other proposals to repeal mandatory helmet laws were considered in California, Maryland, Missouri and Tennessee.

While many motorcycle groups endorse the use of helmets, they also oppose mandatory helmet laws as infringements on personal liberties and their right to assume the risk of riding without a helmet, the report said.

"We are 100 percent pro-helmet, and 100 percent anti-helmet law," Jeff Hennie, vice president of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, said. "Putting a helmet law in place does not reduce motorcycle fatalities."

Educating other motorists to look out for motorcyclists, and teaching motorcyclists how to ride safely, "is the ultimate solution for saving lives," he said.

But Jackie Gillan, president of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, which supports mandatory helmet laws, said: "Education is not a substitute for wearing a helmet." "It's like saying if you take a driver's ed class, you don't have to wear your seat belt," she said. "Now how silly is that?"

Partial helmet laws are also difficult to enforce because it's hard for police to tell the age of motorcyclists as they go whizzing by, she said.

The National Transportation Safety Board dropped mandatory helmet laws from their list of ten "most wanted" safety improvements earlier this month, angering some safety advocates.

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Source: AP (11/28)

Holiday gift ideas for bikers

The holidays are just around the corner. If you are having difficulties on getting something for that special someone, do not worry, Biker Lawyer has you covered!

Great gifts for him:

Water-resistant 100% nylon twill with poly-twill quilted lining. Zipper front. Rib-knit collar, cuffs and waist. Two zipper hand-warmer pockets and two interior pockets. Embroidered appliqué on right sleeve, front and back.

The Microwire™ is woven into a heating matrix within the glove and provides consistent heat coverage to the entire length of each finger, including the thumb as well as the back of the hand. 95% leather, 5% neoprene gloves with waterproof, breathable Aquatex™ lliner. Electrical plug-ins built into gauntlet cuff. Includes connecting harness, power switch, and three prong harness to go up jacket sleeves. Can be worn alone or with other heated clothing. Padded palms, drawcord closure and graphics in contrasting colors.

Hybrid fiberglass composite shell that results in a lighter weight than traditional fiberglass shells. Quick release face shield mechanism. Front and rear vent to provide maximum air flow. Removable, washable Nylex® liner wicks moisture away for maximum comfort. Fits P&A Helmet Headset and Road Tech™ Helmet Headset with Bluetooth® 2.0 Technology (P/N 98272-09VM) sold separately. Helmet bag included. Custom graphics.

Great gifts for her:

Ideal vest for adding patches and pins. Lightweight leather with poly-twill lining. V-neck with snap front. Embroidered graphics on left hem.

Constructed of full grain leather upper, full length cushion sock lining, and YKK® locking inside zipper. Rubber mini-lug outsole and Goodyear® welt construction. Shaft height: 12.5"; Heel height: 1.5". Riding appropriate footwear.

Fiberglass shell. Double D-ring chin strap. Chin and forehead venting. Tool-free removable face shield. Helmet bag included. Allover graphics. Meets DOT requirements. KBC®, 3 lbs. 8 oz.

Preventing Motorcycle Theft

The holidays are just around the corner and its a season to enjoy family, but we must not forget that it is also the season for high theft rate. Here are some tips to prevent theft during the holidays.

• Lock your ignition and remove the key. Most bike thefts occur when the ignition is shut off, but not locked.

• Lock the forks or disk brakes with locks that have large, brightly colored tags.

• If traveling with other riders, lock motorcycles together when not in use.

• If riding alone, lock your bike to a secure, stationary object that can’t be easily dismantled, such as a light pole.

• Add an audible alarm to your motorcycle.

• When traveling and spending the night at a hotel, locate an outdoor security camera and park your bike in the camera’s view. If this is not possible, park your bike close to your room.

• Keep an eye on your bike. When parking at a public event, check your motorcycle periodically, especially immediately after leaving your bike, to make sure there are no suspicious individuals lurking about.

• If parking in a garage, block your bike with automobiles, close the garage door and make sure it is locked.

• Don’t store your title in your bike’s storage compartment, tank bag or saddlebag. The safest place for your title is at home.

• Uniquely mark and then photograph your bike. If thieves take your bike, note its unique markings to law enforcement using the photos you have taken.

• Keep your bike registration and insurance identification card on you when you ride.

• Be careful about giving out private information on where you live, work or play.

If you use a trailer to transport your motorcycle, follow these safety tips:

• Park the trailer in a well-lit location near security cameras or in an area easily seen by restaurant, hotel or event staff.

• Lock the trailer doors and hitch.

• Secure doors by backing up to a wall, so there is not enough room for doors to be opened.

• Know your trailer identification and license plate registration numbers.

• When riding home, make sure you’re not being followed.

Guard against theft when selling your bike:

Using fake identities has become common in bike thefts. Don’t turn over the title until you can verify the check or money order is valid and has cleared the bank. Mail the title to the new owner.

• Ask the buyer for his or her name, address, date of birth and driver’s license number. Then ask to see the driver’s license and check that the information given matches the license.

• Be especially cautious of anyone who presents out-of-state identification.

• Make sure the potential buyer wasn’t dropped off by another party and is planning to take a one-way test ride with your bike. Verify that the buyer owns the vehicle he or she arrived with, and that the vehicle is of equal or greater value than your bike.

• Check that the buyer's driver’s license carries a valid motorcycle endorsement.

• It isn’t necessary that you provide a buyer with the title right away. A written document signed by the seller and buyer indicating price and method of payment can serve as proof of purchase. You can forward the title to the buyer once the check has cleared the bank.

• If you decide to sell your motorcycle on consignment, do not provide the signed title to the dealership until you have received your money in full. Make sure the dealership is a reputable business before you trust them as an agent.

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Source: Motorcycel Safety Foundation

Halloween Driving tips

Halloween is now upon us, and it is good to go out and enjoy it, but remember Halloween is a holiday for fun activities and candy, not for tragedies. We have a few tips that will make your Halloween experience fun and safe for you and for others.

Refrain from using your phone or any other electronic devices while driving, and even while waiting on lights. Costumes might distract your eyes from the road on occasion, but please pay attention to the road at all times. Doing this keeps you from accidentally running over a trick-or-treater, or crashing into another vehicle.

Watch out for the monsters and ghouls walking by. Pay attention to crosswalks, stop signs, and intersections these creatures of the night might be walking across. Hey, this is not a Stephen King movie! Time doesn’t slow down or speed up on this auspicious of holidays. So abide by the speed limit, and monitor the flow of traffic at all times. At twilight, and later in the evening, watch out for kids who might be wearing all black or dark colored clothing, some costumes reduce the visibility of pedestrians.

Turn on your headlights for easy visibility. Be extremely cautious in rural areas with parked or standing cars, since parents tend to drive their kids around the blocks, but wait in convenient locations as they continue to trick-or-treat.

It may prove trying at times, but please be patient with people crossing the street. Some children may not be accompanied by parents, and will want to scour over their loot while walking to the next location. And others still might have costumes that make it difficult for them to move around at all.

Just remember, it is Halloween, and some kids will be too excited to abide by the old "stop, look, and listen" techniques. Have fun, be safe, and above all be courteous.

Motorcycle sales fluctuate

WILLIAMSTOWN - As gasoline prices fluctuate from around $4 per gallon and fall to $3.70 per gallon, many people have been looking for ways to save money, but not by purchasing a motorcycle.

"A lot of people are coming in to buy bikes, but we haven't heard much from customers about gas prices," said Patsy Hardy, co-owner of S&P Harley Davidson in Williamstown.

Kenny Hardy, general manager of the Thunder Road facility, said that the store has seen a surge in motorcycle sales, but fuel savings is not a main factor.

The average motorcycle gets anywhere from 35 to 60 miles per gallon, while the average midsize car gets roughly 20 to 30 miles per gallon, according to Environmental Protection Agency 2009 gas mileage statistics. Combine fuel economy with increased motorcycle publicity and that helps explain why more people have turned to this two-wheeled form of transportation, Kenny Hardy said.

Hardy continued that gas mileage for a motorcycle is the same as for mileage for a vehicle.

"Gas mileage depends on the model of the bike and the riding style," he said. "You could have a bike that gets 60 miles per gallon and only average 40 miles per gallon because of the way it is being ridden."

Other motorcycle enthusiasts are warning potential buyers that while the fuel savings will draw you in, there are costs in bikes.

"People who enjoy riding and the sport of motorcycles are more likely to get their money's worth out of the purchase than someone who buys a bike for fuel economy," said Mike Radcliff, sales manager at Lemon and Barrett's ATV and Cycle in Mineral Wells.

Radcliff said his store has not seen an increase in motorcycle sales at all, let alone due to increased gasoline prices.

"A few years ago when gas initially spiked and prices reached $4 per gallon, we saw a huge increase in sales and people realized they could save some money in gas if they rode a motorcycle," Radcliff said. "Unfortunately, it ended up costing them more because they don't love to ride."

Radcliff said that unless you enjoy motorcycles and are passionate about riding them, you will end up losing money on the cost of the bike's purchase, safety equipment and insurance than you will save on fuel.

"I have seen it 100 times," he said. "A guy comes in and buys a bike to save money and he loses money because he doesn't ride the bike enough to offset the cost.

"Unless you are someone who just loves to ride, don't invest in a bike for savings," Radcliff added.

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Source: News and Sentinel (Craig, 10/21)

How to Store Your Motorcycle for the Winter

Winter is just around the corner. Not many riders ride their motorcycles during this season, so here are a few tips to properly store your bike from the harsh weather.

Things you'll need: 

•  Cleaning items, including water, soap and towels for the exterior, and chain degreaser, engine   cleaner, and WD-40.
• Fuel stabilizer, such as any manufacturer recommended brand or Sta-Bil.
• If you'll be changing your oil, the items listed in the oil change article.
• A battery tender or trickle charger.
• Wax for paint finishes.
• A bike cover or breathable fabric sheet.
• If your chain needs cleaning and/or lubrication, the items listed in the chain maintenance article.
• If you're willing to go the extra mile, so to speak, wood blocks or devices to lift the tires off the ground if your motorcycle isn't equipped with a center stand.

Prepare Your Engine, Exhaust, and Battery for Long Term Storage

The first thing you'll want to do to prepare your engine for storage is make sure the engine oil is clean. Old oil can trap contaminants which damage rubber seals, and performing an oil and filter change before long term storage will help preserve your engine.

If you won't be riding your motorcycle for several weeks (if it's carbureted) or several months (if it's fuel injected), you'll want to make sure your fuel delivery systems are ready for inactivity. With a carbureted engine, you should turn the petcock into the "off" position, loosen the float-bowl drain screw, and catch the fuel in a container. If draining it isn't possible, you can run the engine with the petcock in the "off" position until it dies. Because moisture can accumulate in half-empty tanks, fill up with gas and top it off with a manufacturer-recommended fuel stabilizer or Sta-Bil. Some believe draining the float plugs isn't necessary if stabilizer is added to the fuel and properly run through the fuel system; do whichever process you feel most comfortable with.

If you're storing your bike for more than six months, you might want to protect your piston and cylinder rings from potentially rusting. To do so, remove each spark plug and pour a tablespoon of fresh engine oil or spray fogging oil inside. Ground the ignition leads and turn the engine several times to spread the oil before replacing the spark plugs.

Spray some WD40 into the exhaust pipe(s) in order to keep water away; the "WD" stands for water displacement, and keeping moisture out will prevent rust. You can also keep water and critters out by stuffing intake and exhaust with crumpled plastic bags.

Clean battery leads and attach a battery tender to your battery to keep it charged and ready to go when you're ready to bring the bike out of storage; if you don't have a tender, a trickle charger is better than nothing.

Cleaning Your Motorcycle for Long Term Winter Storage

Dirt and grime will damage motorcycles, both cosmetically and mechanically, so use these tips to preserve your bike during long term storage:

Wash your motorcycle before storage; check out our How to Wash a Motorcycle tutorial, and be sure to let your bike completely dry before covering it, as trapped condensation can cause rust.

In order to ensure that your chain doesn't corrode, follow our Chain Maintenance Step-by-Step tutorial.
Use a degreaser to clean sludge from the outside of the engine.

After washing your bike, apply wax to any paint surfaces, and chrome polish to chrome; this will keep moisture away.

Hopefully you'll be able to keep your bike out of the weather; if you do, use a breathable piece of fabric or a bike cover to keep dust off.

If you can't avoid leaving your bike exposed to the elements, you might not want to cover it since covers can trap moisture and do more harm than good.

Brake, Clutch, and Coolant Fluids

If your brake fluid is in need of changing, do so before long-term storage. Similarly, hydraulic clutch fluid should be changed before you store your bike; both systems may suffer failure if moisture gets in.

Also make sure your coolant is fresh, as deposits can form from old fluid. For service intervals, consult your owner's manual.

Unload the Suspension

If your motorcycle has a center stand, use it for long term storage.

If you're not riding for several weeks and don't have a center stand, you may want to consider carefully propping up the bike using blocks. Don't do more harm than good by dropping your bike while attempting to prop it up! If done correctly, lifting your motorcycle will alleviate stress on the suspension and tires.

Inflate your tires to the maximum recommended pressure will maintain their shape, since cooling temperatures will make the pressurized air contract. If the ground might potentially freeze, try to keep the tires off the ground using wood blocks.

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Source: About (Wasef)

10 Ways to Avoid Looking Like a Squid

A motorcycle is more than a fashion statement, it is a taste of freedom, danger, and responsibility. Here are ten ways to avoid looking like a squid (noob).

Your First Bike Should be a Tool, Not a Fashion Accessory

Bikes are inherently cool— which is one of the many reasons we ride— and we all want to exploit that fact when we're on a motorcycle. But your bike choice— whether you're a first time, intermediate, or advanced rider— should be chosen to make you a better motorcyclist, not make you look like you blew your 401K on a race-ready literbike, a custom paint job, and a matching helmet. Besides, you can always step up to your dream bike after you've cut your teeth on something more manageable.

Save Bare Skin for Bikini Models

One of the telltale ways to spot a squid a mile away is their blatant disregard for safety gear and their decision to wear shorts, flip-flops, and t-shirts; as any experienced rider will tell you, it's not yourself you want to look out for, it's other people on the road. Grab a DOT-approved helmet, a solid jacket, gloves and boots; if anything, going to the trouble of gearing up just might uphold Murphy's Law and ensure you keep the rubber side down.

Turn Off That Blinker!

Veteran riders can be just as guilty of this visual (and potential safety) offense as newbies. Unless your bike's equipped with self-cancelling signals, switch your blinkers off after you've completed your turn or changed lanes. Nobody, especially a new rider, wants the look like a blue-haired permablinker.

Batten Down the Hatches

Saddlebags can be lifesavers when it comes to carrying cargo. But if they're not fastened properly, they can end up bouncing across the highway like a pinball. Learn how your saddlebag latches lock into place, and give them a good shakedown before starting your ride—otherwise, you might not be the only thing hitting the road.

Get to Know Your Kickstand

Kickstands are squirrelly little contraptions. Their spring-loaded mechanisms can make them trickier to operate than you might think, and if they're not completely deployed, all it takes is a light graze of a boot to quietly load them back into a stowed position. Few things are as disconcerting as the slow-motion horizontal parking maneuver, and making sure your kickstand is all the way down will help you avoid that fate.

Resist the Urge to Showboat

Adrenaline's pumping, the engine is eager, and the light just turned green. You may be tempted to pound the throttle, drop the clutch and wheelie your way through the next quarter mile, but don’t get suckered into showing off your misguided motorcycle prowess; chances are you don't have the chops to pull off that mind-blowing maneuver, especially if you're a new rider. Resist the urge to impersonate pros like Jason Britton, and you'll save yourself the dishonor of looking like a chump.

Work on Getting Slow Speed Maneuvers Right

Going fast is easy; it's slow speed maneuvers that take serious skill. Practice parking lot drills like figure 8's and slaloms, and you'll sharpen your balance and bike control, which will eventually help you become better at more delicate moves like u-turns. A squid focuses only on speed, while a serious motorcyclist can make an 800 pound bike move with the grace of a bicycle.

Focus, Grasshopper

Your early experiences aboard a motorcycle usually involve a boatload of distracted thoughts: "Which one's the clutch again? Did I leave my blinker on? Am I going to die today?" Manage your mindcloud and think like a Buddhist monk by breathing calmly and focusing on only the purest essentials; practice this discipline enough, and everything else will fall into place.

Don't Be a Jerk

A squid gives himself (or herself) away by grabbing the front brake and making the fork dive, yanking the throttle and lurching ahead, and taking a turn by cutting four imaginary apexes when only one is necessary. Learn the art of smooth controls, and you'll up your cool quotient exponentially while also becoming a better rider.

Ride Within Your Limits

This relates to the "No showboating" tip, but applies towards the general dynamics of everyday riding. Cross the line, and the consequences usually aren't pretty; learn how to master proper braking, smooth shifting and speed management, and you'll soon taste the sweet challenge of becoming a better, more controlled, and ultimately safer rider.

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Source: About. (Wasef)

Happy Almost S.R.V. Day!

October 3 is considered Stevie Ray Vaughan Day, so what better thing to do than to come celebrate the life and music of Texas' one and only Stevie Ray Vaughan with the 18th annual S.T.V. Remembrance Ride and Concert, October 7. It will be held in the world's largest Hooters 11:15 sharp in the heart of West End Dallas.

The Stevie Ray Vaughan Remembrance Ride & Concert was started in the early 90's as a way of honoring the life and music of Stevie, who passed away in a tragic helicopter accident during the late 80's. All the proceeds from the concert will be going to the S.R.V. Memorial Scholarship Fund.

There will be various parties being held before and after the Remembrance ride and concert . A day before the big day there will be a pre-party held at Rick Fairless' Strokers Dallas and the day of the parade and concert, which will be held in the Cowboys Dance Hall in Arlington from 12-6:30pm, there will be an after party at All Star Diamond Jim's Saloon from 7pm to 2am.

Concert will showcase both famous and local talent blues bands like the Ian Moore Band, Kayla Reeves, Van Wilks, and the Harles Brothers, just to name a few. Pre-ordered tickets cost $20 and $25 at the door. All tickets are general admission and all seats are considered great seats. Parking is free.

So join in on the fun and the endless hours of music this October 7!

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Source: Stevie Ray Vaughan Remembrance Ride and Concert

“No Hand Man” motorcyclist attempting hands-free 525-mile ride

Phil Comar has a bit of a double life. The 63-year-old Adrian, Mich., man works as a motorcycle safety trainer, teaching proper techniques to new riders. But for the past 20 years, Comar has been putting extra danger into his Harley rides by training himself to steer without using his hands. This weekend, he'll attempt to beat his own world record for charity by riding 525 miles hands free, without stopping. That's one way to keep from being distracted.

Comar -- nicknamed the "No Hand Man" -- says he encourages no one to follow in his wake and attempt to go 70 mph without using the handlebars. "I am about as close to being a professional as anyone has been when it comes to riding with no hands," he says, telling The Cincinnati Enquirer that he's never had an accident.

After Comar's father died in 2008 from Parkinson's disease, Comar began a series of fund-raising rides. His first ride in 2010 went 314 miles; last year he attempted the same 525-mile trip from the Mackinac Bridge to Covington, Ky., but only made 327 miles -- still good enough for the Guinness Book of World Records. His bike has a couple of modifications to make the trip, namely an extra fuel tank for range, but there's no secret device to keeping it on the road beyond Comar's legs.

Keeping a 550-lb Harley cruiser going straight without hands might not sound so hard. But as the video from one of Comar's rides shows, steering with your body requires a whole different set of skills. It looks impossible to make the smaller, constant corrections as you would with handlebars, and Comar has to plan ahead for any combination of traffic and turns. While a freeway offers far fewer corners, it also raises the speed to dangerous levels; Comar takes some precautions by having chase vehicles and another rider always nearby.

There are easier ways to raise money for charity, and if you want to help Comar reach his goal of $25,000 for the Michael J. Fox Foundation, you can donate here.

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Source: Yahoo (Hyde, 9/26)

Sheriff suspends deputy who seized biker's camera

This is a follow up on two of our previous stories that can be found here and here.

DALLAS — The Dallas County Sheriff's Department has issued a 38-day suspension to a deputy who stopped a motorcycle rider without cause and seized his helmet camera.

The raw video of the Memorial Day weekend arrest by Deputy James Westbrook has been seen by almost half a million people around the world on YouTube.

The suspension — which Westbrook can appeal — amounts to almost two months off without pay.

“I think we should applaud the agency," said Dr. Robert Taylor, a criminal justice expert at the University of Texas at Dallas. "There were days in American law enforcement when nothing would've happened. And those weren't too far off."

However, Taylor said other departments would have surely fired Westbrook.

Westbrook made the arrest on Memorial Day weekend, when local law enforcement departments were on high alert. They wanted to prohibit reckless behavior by motorcycle riders on the anniversary of a biker event where they shut down North Central Expressway in Dallas and sprayed graffiti on the road.

During his arrest of biker Chris Moore, Westbrook said: "The reason you're being pulled over is because I'm gonna take your camera and we're gonna use it as evidence of in the crimes that have been committed by other bikers."

It is not illegal to wear a camera on your helmet. And experts say Westbrook’s reason did not constitute probable cause to make a traffic stop.

But what bothers Taylor more than Westbrook's traffic stop is the deputy's verbal outbursts and how he slammed the squad car door on the biker's leg.

"Those are the kinds of things that smack of all the ugly things we see in law enforcement,” Taylor said.

Hunter Biederman, Moore's lawyer, said Westbrook should have been fired. "I think they're sending the message that what he did was okay,” Biederman said.

He is prepared to take this to trial, a rare step for a small offense. But Biederman said it was necessary after his client was arrested, mistreated, and then held in the Dallas County Jail.

"I don't think this person should be out patrolling our streets. I don't that type of person should be stopping and arresting our citizens,” he said.

Prior to responding to the biker situation, Westbrook had arrested a drunk driver. Eight of Westbrook's 38 suspension days were related to him leaving his prisoner at the jail without booking him in while he went out on the biker call.

Deputy Westbrook declined to comment on the case to News 8. He has not served the suspension yet and can still appeal.


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Source: WFAA (Schechter, 9/12)

Getting Started: The First Steps to Riding a Motorcycle

Riding a motorcycle isn't a right. It is a privilege one must not take for granted.  Here's a checklist for newbie riders to consider before jumping in the saddle:

Safety Gear

Motorcycling is a high-risk activity, and the most vulnerable riders are new ones. Protecting yourself with proper safety gear is an easy way to save yourself from injury, but the cost of gear adds up, and you'll want to add this to your biking budget.

Training Courses

Though it's common practice to experience your first ride in a parking lot, leave motorcycle training to the pros and take a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course. The skills you'll learn will last you a lifetime, and MSF instructors will educate you with fundamental skills that will make you a better, more competent rider.

Consider Your Bike Options

Will you be borrowing a bike? Are you considering buying your first bike? Plan ahead by either borrowing, renting, or buying a bike, and you'll be more committed to following through with your path to motorcycling.

Start Slow

As a newbie, you're most likely to make potentially dangerous mistakes. Relax, take it easy, and learn at your own pace; motorcycling is an acquired skill that takes plenty of practice, and it's important that you keep that in mind while you learn.

Learn The Rules of the Road

Traffic laws are different for motorcycles, and each state's Department of Motor Vehicles has online manuals for motorcyclists. Download one, and educate yourself on the laws that govern motorcycling.

Get Licensed

There's no excuse for riding on public roads without a license. Once you've taken a MSF course and learned the basics, schedule an appointment at your local DMV office and take the test.


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Source: About: Motorcycles (Wasef)

Ten Things All Car & Truck Drivers Should Know About Motorcycles

We tend to give a lot of advice to motorcycle riders in, but this blog is for all the other motorists on the roads. Too often we hear “I just didn’t see the motorcycle.” The Cole Legal Group is committed to changing this. While many drivers are only looking for cars or trucks, motorcycles have as much right to the road as any other vehicle.

• There are a lot more cars and trucks than motorcycles on the road, and some drivers don't "recognize" a motorcycle; they ignore it (usually unintentionally). Look for motorcycles, especially when checking traffic at an intersection.
• Because of its small size, a motorcycle may look farther away than it is. It may also be difficult to judge a motorcycle’s speed. When checking traffic to turn at an intersection or into (or out of) a driveway, predict a motorcycle is closer than it looks.
• Because of its small size, a motorcycle can be easily hidden in a car’s blind spots (door/roof pillars) or masked by objects or backgrounds outside a car (bushes, fences, bridges, etc). Take an extra moment to thoroughly check traffic, whether you're changing lanes or turning at intersections.
• Because of its small size a motorcycle may seem to be moving faster than it really is. Don't assume all motorcyclists are speed demons.
• Motorcyclists often slow by downshifting or merely rolling off the throttle, thus not activating the brake light. Allow more following distance, say 3 or 4 seconds. At intersections, predict a motorcyclist may slow down without visual warning.
• Turn signals on a motorcycle usually are not self-canceling, thus some riders, (especially beginners) sometimes forget to turn them off after a turn or lane change. Make sure a motorcycle's signal is for real.
• Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane to be seen more easily and to minimize the effects of road debris, passing vehicles, and wind. Understand that motorcyclists adjust lane position for a purpose, not to be reckless or show off or to allow you to share the lane with them.
• Maneuverability is one of a motorcycle's better characteristics, especially at slower speeds and with good road conditions, but don't expect a motorcyclist to always be able to dodge out of the way.
• Stopping distance for motorcycles is nearly the same as for cars, but slippery pavement makes stopping quickly difficult. Allow more following distance behind a motorcycle because it can't always stop "on a dime."
• When a motorcycle is in motion, don't think of it as motorcycle; think of it as a person.

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Source: Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Loading the Motorcycle for Trips

Whether it is a carton of milk from the convenience store, or camping gear for a three-week trip, you will end up carrying more than people on your motorcycle. All loads should be tied to the machine. Do not balance a bag of groceries between your legs for a short ride home. Strap it to the back seat with bungee cords or an elasticized cargo net. A great carrying device is the tank bag. It puts the weight where it should be – near the bike’s center of gravity. Make sure it is properly secured and remember never to carry anything on the gas tank or inside the fairing that might interfere with the steering of the bike. Just imagine what happens if the bars won’t turn far enough – big trouble.

There are appropriate places to carry loads on a motorcycle, but they do not include your front forks or fenders. If your machine comes with saddlebags a travel trunk, you’re set. If you have none of this, you can always buy a luggage rack or throw-over bags; they are very useful items. When you load saddlebags, keep equal weight on both sides. This is even more important when you are using soft throw-over bags, as an imbalance can cause one side to drop down and rest on the muffler. A blazing saddlebag is no joke. Keep the weight relatively light in your travel trunk or on your luggage rack. Being aft of the rear axle, this is the worst place on the motorcycle to carry much weight. It can turn a well-handling motorcycle into a poor handling terror. Sleeping bags go great back there; a 50-pound sack of dog food does not.

Check the security of the load frequently, and make sure nothing is dangling. It is one thing to lose part of your luggage, quite another to get it tangled up in a wheel.

Above all, DO NOT EXCEED THE GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of your motorcycle! You might find that figure on the plate attached to the steering head; sometimes it is found on the frame; but the best place to look is in the owner’s manual. It is written in pounds, and it includes the weight of the motorcycle, all gasoline, oil and coolant, the rider(s), and the luggage.

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Source: Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Drugs, Drinking & Riding

We kid you not. Mixing alcohol or other drugs with motorcycles is like putting nitro with glycerine: there’s a dangerous reaction. Alcohol is a depressant. The first thing to go is your judgment – and good judgment is essential. Bad judgment gets you into trouble. Drinking riders tend to run off the road more often, have a high percentage of rider error, and use excessive speed for conditions around them. Those are the statistics – and that spells trouble.

It takes a long time for the effects of alcohol to be cleared from your body, roughly one hour for each bottle of beer, glass of wine, or shot of liquor. Nothing but time will shed that alcohol - not showers, coffee, or other so-called remedies.

Have a couple of beers if you wish, but have them at home. Then you don’t have to go anywhere afterward. If you are going to drink, don’t even think about riding.

Alcohol is not the only drug that affects your ability to ride safely. Whether it is an over-the-counter, prescription, or illegal drug, it may have side-effects that increase the risks of riding. Even common cold medicines could make you drowsy – too drowsy to ride – and mixing alcohol and drugs is even more dangerous than using either alone.

Drunk Driving Crashes are no “accident" and are usually life changing. Drunk drivers get behind the wheel due to series of horrific choices and should be penalized through punitive damages. DWI/DUI claims are unique considering criminal charges may be pending, driving and employment records can be key when commercial vehicle drivers are involved; and restaurants, bars, party hosts and other parties who supplied drugs or alcohol can often be held responsible when accidents occur.

DWI/DUI accidents are serious threats to the safety of our community and deserve serious investigation. The Cole Legal Group has a proven track record of obtaining substantial insurance settlements and jury awards for people hurt or killed by drunk or impaired drivers.

Let our experience, commitment and fight work to get you the money you deserve to rebuild your life. Our commitment to you: We will not be out worked!

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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Source: Motorcycle Safety Foundation

4B Wild West Bike Rally

The 4B Wild West will be holding it's 4th annual bike rally August 10th through the 11th, at 1761 Country Club Rd in Brownfield, TX (79316).

With over 400 acres of FREE camping, it is one of the biggest bike rallies in Texas! Gates open at 12 pm and admission cost $20 for the whole weekend.

There will be 8 live bands such as an AC/DC tribute band Back in Black, and the infamous Whips and Kisses. There will be an afternoon "Cancer Rides 2 Remember," 4 Brigade FMX stunt show,  burlesque shows, biker games, and so much more.

Since 2009, the 4B Wild West's profits for the event have benefited local cancer patients who are in need financially, and continues to help out those in need. You must be 18 or older to enter.

How to deal with motorcycle equipment failures

If your motorcycle is properly maintained, you greatly reduce the possibility of any equipment failure. However, just in case ...

Blowouts and how to deal with them

If you use tires of good quality, keep them at the proper pressure, and change them when the tread is worn, the chances of having a blowout are small. However, should it happen to either of your tires, you must act quickly and properly.

1. Do not use the brakes; braking hard will only make things worse. If you must use some brake, apply gradual pressure to the brake on the good tire and ease over to a safe spot to stop. 
2. Ease off on the throttle and slow down gradually; rapid deceleration could throw the bike out of control. 
3. Hold those handlebars firmly; a great shuddering may take place as the out-of-round tire flops against the pavement, but you are concerned only with keeping that front wheel pointed ahead until you stop.

Stuck Throttle

Most riders have had bad dreams about this, but few have experienced the problem. That is why all contemporary motorcycles have a cut-off switch by the right thumb. Just in case. Practice flipping the cut-off switch. Chances are you will never have a throttle stick, but if you do, you’ll know how to deal with it. As you hit the cut-off switch, pull in the clutch (you will probably be in gear); then look for a safe place to coast to a stop.


Broken Clutch Cable

Imagine you are cruising along in fifth gear; you want to shift down; you pull in the clutch lever – and there is no return action. It just lies up against the hand grip. No fun, but not dangerous. You can shift the bike without a clutch. This is not advisable unless necessary, but it can be done. Back off on the throttle and shift down a gear. If you have a sensitive foot, you can probably find neutral before coming to a complete stop. If not, get set for a jerky halt.

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source: Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Ride for Teal

While the trip is still a work in progress, Ride for Teal is a charity ride that benefits ovarian cancer research. Teal is the designated color for ovarian cancer charities, just as pink is the designated color for breast cancer charities.

Along with "We Fight Like A Girl," a non-profit organization, and riders, 100% of the proceeds will go to Ovarian Cancer Research: Awareness and Education.

The ride from Sturgis, Nebraska to Houston, Texas can be viewed more like a Ride-A-Thon, where riders pledge cents to dollars per mile they ride.

The Route: August 1- Arriving to Sturgis, NE to the Buffalo Chip Campground, were the Iron Cowgirl Missy will be performing through the entire rally August 2 through 11- Riding and Partying August 12- Head to Texas. Sturgis to Grand Island, NE August 13- Grand Island, NE to Norman, OK August 14- Norman, OK to Houston, TX

This is not an escorted ride. If you'd like to learn more, check out Houston, Tx to Sturgis '12 on Facebook.  You may also look at the Texas Biker Lawyer Event Page.

iPhone Apps for Motorcyclists

If you ride a motorcycle and own an iPhone here are a few iPhone Apps that can help you enjoy both a little more.

Greatest Road: This app helps you find cool roads to ride in your local area. The roads are submitted by local riders, so if you have favorite roads to ride on you can submit some your self. The interface for this App is great, and it is fun to search for nice twisty roads when you have a Saturday afternoon to kill.

Motorcycle Minder: If you ride a motorcycle, you know it takes regular maintenance to keep you and your bike happy. This app helps you keep up with all the maintenance details for your motorcycle, oil change, chain maintenance, tire pressure, etc. It also has a fuel mileage tracker if you want to keep track of mpg’s.

N-Drive GPS: N-Drive is a great GPS App, whether you are on two wheels or four. It provides turn by turn directions, a POI database, and is one of the more feature rich GPS Apps for the iPhone. If you plan on using a GPS on your bike you will need a good mounting system. I recommend using Ram Mounts, they have tons of mounting applications for phones, gps, and any other goodies you might need out on the road. If you do not have a DC plug you may consider installing one of those also, as the GPS feature on the iPhone sucks the battery quick.

Weather Bug App: This App can keep you out of some hairy situations if you are hitting the open road. It provides accurate weather reports and a live radar. No one wants to get caught in a hail storm, this App can save your bacon.

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[via: Rider Groups]

Road Trip!

Tired of Dallas and need to get out of the city for a while? Why not take a road trip to San Antonio? July is the great time to head down there, since there is so much to look at, especially out on the road. Biker Lawyer has a few suggestions on what to check out.

While traveling south on I-35 to San Antonio, you'll pass Waxahachie, which has one of the most interesting buildings: the Ellis County Courthouse. Built in 1894, the "Unrequited Love Carvings" made this 9 stories tall court house famous. Legend has it that Harry Herley, a stone mason who fell in love with Mabel Frame, daughter of the boarding house where he stayed. At first, Herley carved her face in the sand stone that is now part of the court house, but she ignored his feelings for her, knowing that she would never pay attention to him, those beautiful carvings of her face slowly became twisted demons. This is something interesting that catches the attention from anyone.

After walking around the courthouse for a while, you'll probably work up an appetite. An hour or so further down from Waxahachie, you'll want to make a stop in Waco for some barbecue. Michna's BBQ is located on 2803 Franklin Avenue, two quick turns from the freeway. They are known for their amazing ribs and their southern hospitality; a John Wayne lover would love it.

While you're in Waco, you can't afford to miss a trip to the Dr. Pepper Museum. Located on 300 South 5th Street, here you'll learn anything and everything you could know about the Dr. Pepper brand. A fair warning: this place used to be the easiest place to get the best Dr. Pepper had to offer, the infamous pure can sugar Dublin Dr. Pepper, but after losing a lawsuit last year it is no longer in production. They may still have some in stock, but if you miss out, you'll have to try their infamous XXX Root Beer instead.

After getting your motorcycle back on the road, you'll want to travel a little further down I-35 to Austin. While in Austin, if you ever need something extra for your bike, you can stop at Cycle Gear. They have just about anything one needs for their bike. Should you decide to stop for a while longer, check out the Bat Bridge, where a literal a swarm of bats can seem turn the day into night. It's great for sightseers and nature lovers.

When you finally reach San Antonio, there is no time to rest. You must go out and see it all! The Toilet Museum, Gravity Hill, The World's Largest Boots, The River Walk, and last but not least, The Alamo. San Antonio is a beautiful city, with beautiful people, and great places to eat. Don't forget to have fun and enjoy your escape from DFW while it lasts.

Four motorcycle boot recommendations for men and women

When buying motorcycle boots, a rider generally looks for comfort, flexibility, protectiveness, breathability, waterproof, and something one can wear without losing the feel of one's foot. But the truth is there is no boot yet made that contains all of these qualities.

When trying out boots the most important factor is the initial fit and feel, as the first try usually indicates the comfort or discomfort. Texas Biker Lawyer has two great choices for both men and women.

First, for the ladies, is the Harley Davidson Studded Strut. This is a sexy and stylish boot for women that has an inside zipper for easy on and off, and comes with a comfortable fashionable 2 1/2" heel. Made of full grain leather and a rubber outsole, stacked heels with a narrow toe, the Harley Davidson Studded Strut boots cost roughly around $114.99.

The Durango 11" leather western boots are long lasting, comfortable, great looking uppers for women who are more laid back. They come with a cushion insole with flexible forepart for all day comfort. The hand stained composition outsole looks and feels like leather should. The Durango 11" leather western boots come with a fashionable 1 1/2" heel and costs around $99.99.

The Harley Davidson Men's Booker engineer boots are made out of leather, have a full size side zipper, and are mid-calf length. They are easy to slip on and off and extremely comfortable. Their engineer boot styling and buckled straps at the vamp and the shaft give it a gothic look. They can be found for around $140.99.

The Alpinestars Soho Gore-Tex Boots are a great choice for any man. They have grip on the soles and are easy to step in and out of, thanks to the velcro closure on one side, and it comes equipped with a full length zipper. Made out of full grain leather, they are reinforced on critical stress points, and once broken in they can be extremely comfortable. These waterproof boots costs around $329.95.