Thursday, June 01, 2006

Snake on motorcycle parts

Cobra motorcycle parts and accessories have a lot in common with all the other motorcycle brands but Cobra stands out among the rest. Bike owners love the Cobra sissy bar range because it is easy to customize and anyone can do it easily. If you want to add accessories to your bike, you can easily do it because the accessories are available and easy to find.

It will just take a lot of initiative and imagination to make sure that you plan your bike’s customization properly.

Cobra motorcycle parts have a big range of bolt on add-ons that has been made available for all the motorcycle users. This has made buying motorcycle parts easier and reliable.

You will not have to worry about changing your motorcycle parts any time because you know that they are available and not difficult to look for. If you want exhaust designs, Cobra Motorcycle Parts is a good choice.

Friday, November 25, 2005

What You should Know regarding Motorcycle Spark Plugs

There has been a lot of puffing going out in the motorcycle market. Some are talking about horse power advantages. Nonetheless, be cautious of believing them, chances are they are just flowery words thus, misleading.

In the case of motorcycle spark plugs, there have already been several misfires. Some tend to break into two when you try to remove them. These are instances when you are wasting money over low quality and non-durable spark plugs.

In order to avoid this, we have to bear in mind some pointers about this motorcycle parts:

1. Go with the motorcycle parts manufacturer’s recommendations. That way, you can never go wrong.

2. Call the manufacturer if you have qualms over the parts in order to save you a lot of trouble. Do not experiment with parts, especially if you have little knowledge about them. They can go wrong in just a flick of the finger and can catch you off guard without any assistance and remedy.

Situation: Let us consider common motorcycle plug number: DPR9EA-9. This is a 12 mm thread 18 mm plug socket, P stands for projected electrode, R for resistor, heat range 9, E for 19mm thread reach, A for specials and 9 for .9mm plug gap. The next suffix letter is for thread reach. It can make you come unstock. If you put a plug with a too long thread reach then it puts a motivating impression in the top of the piston, if it is otherwise, it will not reach inside the combustion chamber. The next letter is again for construction features. There may appear another number after it. It refers to the plug gap which it is set at.
NGK plugs are good. The first letter prefix stands for the thread type and socket hexagon size. Their size ranges from 14mm thread to 8mm on the little 4 cylinder 250 imports. The second and third letter prefix refers to the construction feature.

With this kind of spark plugs it should be known that the higher the number the colder the plug. What’s the significance? Well, racing bike engines use cold plugs because they generate enormous heat. On the other hand, if fowling is one of your problems, use a hotter plug. Remember though that other motorcycle spark plugs have inverted heat range. Just consult the manual or your manufacturer to be sure that you are getting the right plugs.

Confused? You can always go back to the first rule.

Repairing Motorcycle Saddle Bags

Do you know that repairing motorcycle saddle bags is just as easy as eating popcorn?!

I have repaired saddle bags before - some having cracks and some are far worse. My tools are the tape, plastic pipe glue, shavings and the likes. They can make miracles. Fiberglass is also a solution. Nonetheless, it is hard to have permanent bonding to the plastic since it is slippery. However, you can try them too.

So, how do I do repairs? Actually, a friend taught me how to. First, for cracks, you can use tape on the inside and pressurize thick glue with a piece of flexible plastic into the crack. You need not use sand paper because the glue and plastic will be almost unseen. For best results, you can use plastic pipe glue that can be found in the plumbing section. This glue dries up even without heat application.

ABS shavings can also be used to repair saddle bags. It dissolves effortlessly into the liquid within five to ten minutes. If you want a richer mixture, add more shavings. Mix it properly. To make the surroundings of the crack rough, use some 220 grit sand paper. When it is already rough, apply the mixture over and into the repair area. In order not to seep out or at least minimize the chance, begin from the inside of the bag and place some foil on the other side. You can clean messy edges with wet or dry sandpaper. Make sure that ventilation is good. If you can have a fan blowing away from you - the better. It helps in achieving easy and mess-free repairs.
Motorcycle parts like saddles are provided with products that can make them look new and desirable again. These repairs are very easy. In fact, sometimes it only takes a visit to your reliable motorcycle store or home depot.

Other miracle products are the liquid plastic by melting ABS in a solvent, thick black plastic that repairs without the application of heat and black ABS Cement. Repairing can be that easy even without heat!

Thursday, November 17, 2005

Fenders for your bikes

Motorcycle parts always go to some kind of evolution as time passes by. This is the case even with fenders for your bikes. Mind, it is essential for you to know what exactly is the kind and type of fender your bike needs. Here are certain types out now in the market:

OEM Fenders - Getting Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) motorcycle parts fenders is like buying the exact original fenders the manufacturer used to build. OEM fenders are simple, workable and widely available.

Custom or Aftermarket Fenders - Custom or aftermarket motorcycle fenders are becoming more and more popular. In fact there are a lot of motorcycle fenders manufacturers that specialize in this field some of them are Daytec and Jessie James.

* Daytec makes steel rear aftermarket fenders which are primered and undrilled. They are called Heritage or Bobbed. They are made available to fit 8-1/2 to 9 inch custom applications.

* Jessie James' motorcycle fenders are made of rolled steel with welded radius contours wire loom and reinforced lower edges. These fenders necessitate custom drilling and mounting in order to accommodate the rider’s specifications. Any rider can incorporate these fenders to a new bike or the bike he is already riding. After incorporating and just before painting, pre-finishing is resorted to.The Steeler, which is made for custom narrow glides with 18 inch or 19 inch and 16 inch wheels, is the newest selection of Jesse James. It is made for both the front and the rear wheels. Aside from Steeler, Jesse James also have classic, tombstone, roller fenders, outlaw fenders, gunslingers.

On Motorcycle's Stroke Engines

Same as deciding on what motorcycle parts to get, when you decide on what kind of motorcycle engine to have, you have to know their function and distinction so as to understand their chemistry and importance.The best way to start is to have a substantial comparison. In knowing what's the best engine for your bike, know the types of motorcycle engines in order to decide what’s best for you. You have to consider its pros and cons...

We have two types of motorcycle stroke engines – the two stroke and the four stroke engines. The first one involves two processes - compression and combustion. On the other hand, the cycle in four stroke engines involves intake, compression, combustion and exhaust.

If we are to give their advantages here are some. In two stroke engines, the engine fires, spark plugs ignite once every revolution of the crankshaft. It involves simple process with fewer parts. Its power is two times better compared to four stroke engines. In connection with the four stroke engines, they have proficient use of gas. They also give off lesser smoke than two stroke engines. Above all, they last longer.

Regarding disadvantages -- With the two stroke engines, you have to mix its oil with gas. This can be costly. They can also give off greater pollutants. The use of gas is also mot proficient. Lastly, they last less. With the four stroke engines, their drawbacks include their complicated nature since there are more parts to attend to, they only fire once every two revolutions, and they have half as powerful as the two stroke engines.

Monday, November 07, 2005

Replacing Motorcycle Grips

There are some motorcycle parts that are easy to replace. Grips, for instance are good example. It only involves few steps and here they are:

1. Ready your new grips, rubbing alcohol, hammer, socket and WD-40.

2. Remove the bar end. Be careful with its head and threads. If they are already damaged, better replace them also.

3. Pull the end of the grip and spray on the WD-40 to loosen the contact. You can remove the grips by twisting and folding its inner edge. Remember where the original location of the inner edge.

4. After the grip has been pulled, clean the handle with rubbing alcohol. Be sure to remove the glue from the Clip-on. Also, lubricate the Clip-on with rubbing alcohol and slide the new grip. While sliding it, do some twisting techniques. Do this while the alcohol has not yet evaporated otherwise it will be harder to twist.

If the new grip material will allow, you can also use oil instead of alcohol.

5. To tap the new grip into position, use the hammer and socket. Make sure that it fits well and will not impair the bike's operation. To test it, roll the throttle to full-on and let it snap back. You can ride around to be used to its stiffness.

Finally, you can enjoy your bike's new look and new grip!

Rules of Thumb in Motorcycles

To help motorists, here are the rules of thumb in riding a motorcycle:

1. Ready your motorcycle. Do not go into a battle with a defective sword. Thus, inspect first your motorcycle. Are the parts in good riding condition? If there are parts that need to be replaced, replace it. If there are those that need to be fixed, then fix it first. If these parts are overlooked, they will not only spoil your ride but spoil your life as well.

2. Wear your protection. Helmet, jacket/vest, gloves, pants and footwear must not be neglected. If you want total protection then, do not dare neglect any of these gears. You do not know which body part will be hit. You do not even know if there will be a fatal crash just after mounting on your bike so you must protect everything from your head to your toe!

3. Be conspicuous. Try to use motorcycle parts and gears that reflect or emit lights. This will help you become obvious to other motorcyclists. Most accidents happen because the road is a blurry du to rain or snow. Moreover, the use of neon colors can very well help.

4. Keep Distance. Be an island. Leave ample space all around your motorcycle to avoid bumps. Most of the time, mishaps happen because of tailgating and not keeping safe distance.

5. Expect accident. Every time you drive, expect an accident. That way you will be extra careful and drive defensively. Beware of the curves, intersections, oncoming left turners, school zones and other populated places so as to prevent road accidents.

6. Avoid riding during nighttime. It's hard to see other motorists at night this is especially true when there are lesser lights used. Aside from conspicuity another possible problem that may arise during nightime are the drunken drivers who are mostly coming from bar hopping spree or teenagers having their weekly night-out.

7. Ride you Own Ride. You do not have to impress others. Know your limits and always remember safety more than anything else!

Live yor life and enjoy your ride to safety!

Saturday, October 29, 2005

Why Bother About Bike Chains?

Every motorcycle part is as important as the other. Neglecting your chains may mean future bike discrepancy. Chances are, you may end up in the hospital wing, operating room or morgue. To preclude this from happening, we must avoid chain and chain related failures through bike maintenance and inspection.

To keep mud, water and rust away, cleaning, lubricating, tightening, alignment or replacement of chain can be resorted to. The most thorough cleaning is that which detaches the chain from the bike and soaking it in kerosene, diesel fuel and other recommended solvents. However, beware of solvents that can destroy especially the o-ring chains. The remedy is not soaking but just wiping them with a solvent-soaked rag.

If you choose to lubricate other than the rest of the available remedies, the secret is thorough emersion. Soak the chains in a pan of oil for several days so as to allow the oil lubricant to flow in the chain rollers, bushigs and pins. Aside from oil, there are also spray on lubricants like WD40, TFF, CRC and more. The newest lubrication nowdays is chain wax. They provide chain a thick water and corrosion blocking coating. There are reliable motorcycle parts and accessories dealer where you can get this from.

Winterize the Bike!

Winterizing is a personal choice of a biker. He may or may not practice the same since it is mainly a product of discretion. But for those who are interested to winterize their bikes, here are some tested tips that they can bank on.

7 Steps to Winterize:

1. Before you winterize, check first if the bike has mechanical problems. If you have detected a defect, especially on its motorcycle parts, fix it first before you proceed.

2. The engine oil and the oil filter must be replaced or changed.

3. Fill the gas tank. Then add stabilizer. To gauge the right quantity of the stabilizer, consult the instructions on its can. After that, run the bike for a few minutes.

4. After the run, check the bike's battery. Clean its battery terminals and connect a Battery Tender or similar trickle-charger.

5. Wash, clean, wipe and wax the bike.

6. Use motorcycle cover to protect the bike from other elements. Keep the bike in a warm garage.

7. Lastly, make it certain that the bike is locked up and its registration and papers are removed so as to avoid liability if in case the bike was stolen.

Ready yourself and your motorcycle apparel to action-packed spring adventures because by then, your bike will be in good working conditions without the hazards of the freezing winter!

Thursday, August 18, 2005

Motorcycle Parts Plagued the Net

Whenever I need something so badly in a short period of time, I rely on the prowess of the Internet. I am pretty convinced that it has already made the society shrink into a chamber where you can find all you want.

Last week my husband requested me to buy him vintage motorcycle parts because he urgently needed the same however circumstances deter him from doing so. After he has discussed what particular the motorcycle parts he needs and went off to an important seminar, I found myself in front of my computer searching for the parts online. Viola! After a reasonable time, I have already found what my husband is looking for so I purchased them through the Net with the use of my credit card.

When my husband came home from the seminar, I showed him my purchased products and he was happy with the results. In fact, he is planning to purchase Honda oem motorcycle parts next month and guess what, he is going to do it on the Net!

Foresee and Prevent Street Injuries

As I have observed some incidents and accidents are foreseeable. We already have an idea why these things occur. We know the elements that may constitute injuries and those that can prevent them. We know that the right choice of motorcycle parts and motorcycle parts performance accessories is part and parcel of safety riding. We also know that the simple act of wearing motorcycle apparel like helmet can steal a rider from death. Maintenance of motorcycle parts is another thing. In addition, compliance of traffic rules and regulations is a must to avoid future aberrations – both legal and otherwise.

However, stubbornness is precluding us to do what is supposed to be done. The act or omission brought about by the riders’ recklessness and negligence leads us to dangerous and harmful injuries and fatal consequences.

Preventing injuries is a very indispensable issue. The American Academy of Surgeons stated that almost always a lot of motorcycle accidents is happening at least one every few days. It further stated that “most injuries noted from the people brought in the Level One Trauma Units range from serious musculoskeletal injuries, open fractures and head traumas from motorcycle accidents”. We can prevent all these things by relying on our keen and sound foresight.

Friday, July 22, 2005

Self-inflicted Peril…

Riders most of the time create a big hoax out of themselves. They consider it a favorable thing to drive thousand of miles away on a motorcycle. Nevertheless, according to experts this is a hazardous thing to do.
Driving at excessive speed is risky especially at nightime. It cuts the time to react and be prepared. It also cuts the distance to save the plight or to avoid the headlight beam. Countless accidents can be traced with this cause so prioritize your safety when driving so as not to fall the next-in-line victim.

Another risk is when a rider pauses long enough to refill his tank. Therefore he loses the opportunity to check on his tire if there is a bubble or drop, his chain loose or tailliight burnt out. His focus is to get back to the road. Hence, if a sudden failure occur, a fatal fall can result.
Fatigue, drunkenness, sleepiness also contribute to the formula for a fatality. This state is considered as a diminution of thinking ability and reaction. This make attention astray that may result to a gruesome mishap.

The physical, emotional and psychological conditions of a rider can lead him to his morbid death. This is the reason why riders must be cautious so as not to inflict danger to himself as well as to the innocent bypassers and riders.

Negligence can be the little pin to purge your safety. Your life may be at stake and it is not worth it. Better yet, use aftermarket motorcycle parts or aftermarket custom motorcycle parts to be secured of the results.

Limits that limit us

Nothing is absolute. Everything has limits. In fact even riding motorcycles are limited by three factors. Sometimes we stretch these limits to our own detriment. Nevertheless, we turn out to be the ones on the losing end. One by one, I want to elaborate the three limitations to serve as backgrounder at the same time a warning:

Personal Limits. Aging is the crux of personal limits. As we grow old, we become susceptible to poor vision and hearing. Thus, it is hard for us to drive safely and attentively. We can tend to ignore road signs and crossing pedestrians, as a consequence - a terrible mishap.
Another limitation is health problems like sickness, deformities and the likes. These further limit our capacity to drive and be safe.

Environmental Limits. Aside from personal limits, we are also limited by environmental factors like storm, rain, flood, and other force majeur. We have to drive slowly and cautiously during these times so as to avoid accidents.

Motorcycle Limits. Defective motorcycle parts and accessories are also considered limitations to our driving. Low quality motorcycle parts and accessories must not be used. Instead, use aftermarket accessory motorcycle parts and aftermarket motorcycle parts services to be sure of the outcome. If motorcycle needs repair, it is but advisable to have it repaired so as to preclude accidents that can take lives.

Knowing these limits and their entertwined character can affect us and others so much. Be responsible enough in driving to enjoy your driving more!