Motorcycles More Dangerous Than Cars
Posted by admin in Motorcycles on 04 28th, 2011
These figures are courtesy of yesinsurance.co.uk, who said that over the past 25 years the fatality rates of all other types of transport have dropped considerably, the risk of riding a motorcycle has maintained its dangerous fatality rate.
In 2006 6,484 motorcycle users were killed or seriously injured according to the Department for Transport, this is in comparison to 14,254 car users. Motorcyclists are 51 times more likely to be killed than car drivers, this figure is considered per mile travelled, they are also twice as likely as pedal cyclists, the next most vulnerable group.
Paul Purdy of yesinsurance.co.uk said: “The rising cost of fuel and the exemption of motorcycles from the London congestion charge have been two of the factors encouraging car drivers to switch to motorcycles.
“This has implications for other cities such as Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham, where the introduction of a congestion charging system could lead to a rise in road casualties. Deaths and serious injuries of motorcyclists in their forties have almost doubled over the past ten years, whilst figures for those in their twenties and early thirties have declined.”
He added: “Whilst we support the move to encourage car drivers to use other forms of transport in city areas, as an insurer we are acutely aware that the risk factor for motorcycles is over 50 times higher than it is for cars, as far as deaths and serious injuries are concerned.”
There is a prevalent trend for relatively inexperienced middle aged men to switch from cars to powerful motorbikes, this is something that is contributing to the rising number of accidents. The sheer number of accidents are pushing up bike insurance prices for all motorcyclists.
Motorcycle traffic has increased by 37% over the 10 years leading to 2006, this is according to Department of Transport figures. Paul Purdy recommended: “Wherever possible, we encourage drivers to turn to public transport rather than motorcycles when avoiding the congestion charge.”
Motorbikes are often seen as a dangerous form of transport, and it seems from these figures that the assumptions are correct.
Although it could be the sheer vulnerability of the motorcyclist if an accident should occur, the injury and fatality levels are higher, but unlike a car passenger there is no metal shell protecting you on a motorbike. With a car you have a metal frame work that will take the brunt of the impact in an accident, you are also surrounded by safety features such as seatbelts and airbags which minimise injuries. On a motorcycle the only protection you have is a helmet and leathers.
Motorcycles are also harder than cars to see on the road, a car can clearly see another car approaching but it can often be hard to see motorcycles approaching, especially if they are driving to one side of a car.
It is said that two thirds of motorcycle accidents are attributed to speeding, braking or manoeuvres on the UK’s roads. The two main reasons behind motorcycle accidents are collisions with fixed objects and negotiating around corners and sharp bends. Corners and sharp bends can be fatal to motorcycle users if not taken safely, bad weather conditions can also contribute to accidents, as can deteriorating road surfaces.
Jemma
http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/motorcycles-more-dangerous-than-cars-400921.html
read comments (1)Best Years For Used Motorcycles
Posted by admin in Motorcycles on 04 24th, 2011
There are plenty of reasons to opt for a used motorcycle when you are looking to buy. The newer models might not have that classic look that you want, or you might prefer to have something a little cheaper than a brand new bike. That being said, there are some years for motorcycles that just weren’t the factory’s best and you’ll want to avoid them.
Choosing the right vintage or used motorcycle could help you not only get a cheaper bike, but you could even double your money in a few years, as vintage motorcycles become less common. It’s certainly something to think about as you shop around.
Motorcycles depreciate rapidly in value once they are put into use, which means that buying new just isn’t worth it most of the time. As soon as that front tire hits the street, the bike drops 30% or so in value. That means used bikes are a far better investment, particularly if you can find one that is practically new.
Vintage Bikes: It Depends On the Brand
When it comes to vintage motorcycles, not all brands are truly classic. The ones that have the cleanest lines and are the truly sought after bikes are the ones you want. For example, a Kawasaki isn’t going to be nearly as exciting as a vintage bike, not when you look at the early Harley Davidsons, at least!
For vintage Harleys, looking way back, the 1953 model is a popular one these days among fans of the classic look. In fact, this look was so popular that Harley made a newer Sportster that uses the same lines as the original.
Another great year for vintage was 1928, with the BMW Indian Scout. This bike features one of the early V-twin engines and is still a great looking bike if you can find one in good condition. Since this motorcycle is so old, chances are you won’t find one, but if you should, you’ll know it’s worth every penny.
Coming in as just barely a vintage motorcycle is the Suzuki 500 Titan. This bike doesn’t really have the looks that we aim for in a classic bike, but there’s no denying its popularity. The motorcycle uses a two-stroke engine that is quite large for the time period and features clean, smooth lines.
Modern Used Motorcycles
Again, it depends on the brand name when you are looking at which year was best for used motorcycles. Many people will give you different answers if you ask, so it’s also a matter of personal taste. However, some years were simply better than others all around, so we’ll be focusing on these here.
Most people find that more recent years are the best option since they aren’t too used. A fairly recent model will be less likely to have serious problems than much older models. In addition, you will be able to find parts for more recent models easier, as well. In general, the previous 5-10 years would be a good time period to look at.
2001 – Yamaha
The Yamaha YZ426F was the Bike of the Year in 2001. This off-road version of the Yamaha motorcycle is a good choice if you are looking for a used bike for more adventurous riding. It features titanium valves and a four stroke engine for some heavy duty power. The bike is light and well-built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding.
2005 – Harley Davidson
2005 was a good year for Harleys. The Road King, in particular, is the best model from this year and has been a favorite of many bikers to date. It was considered to be the smoothest running of all the bikes built in the new millennium and has a reputation for being very reliable, as well as looking great. The Road King is often recommended for use on longer road trips.
2008 – Honda
Despite technically being a 2009 model, Honda’s “Big Red” model was released in 2008, which is why it’s featured under this year. Big, bold and beautiful, this motorcycle was originally designed for comfortable long distance travel. Since it’s such a new model, chances are you won’t find many used, but if you do, they should still be in excellent condition.
There are plenty of different models in different years that will be excellent investments, as well, but these are some of the absolute best.
What to Look for in a Used Motorcycle
No matter what the make or year, it’s important that you take a careful look at any motorcycle that you are interested in buying used. Even the seller might not realize what the problems with the bike are, so you’ll need to check everything. The best used motorcycles will only have a few minor issues, such as scratched paint or loose bolts. These can be easily be fixed. It’s the bigger problems that you really need to watch for.
Here is a quick list of what to check:
Battery: Does it hold a charge? Check by starting and turning off the bike a couple of times.
Lights: Check all lights, front and back. Bulbs can be replaced, but smashed or flickering lights will need a little more work, which can be expensive.
Engine: Does it start up easily? The bike should be able to run without having to constantly use the throttle.
Gauges: Make sure the gauges all work, since these are important for the information they give about your speed and the amount of gas left.
Feel: When you take the bike out for a test run, does it make odd noises or vibrate more than it should?
Buying a used motorcycle is about more than just saving money, you’ll be getting a bike that has a special feel to it, particularly if you opt for a vintage or classic model. This is something that more and more people are moving toward since it is far more cost effective and a better investment to go with a second hand bike, as opposed to brand new.
JR Ulderport
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/best-years-for-used-motorcycles-748034.html
Good Qualities of Honda Motorcycles
Posted by admin in Motorcycles on 04 22nd, 2011
Honda Motorcycles have been considered as the most efficient riding machinery, both on the tracks and off the tracks. And since these motorcycles are manufactured to be the best in the league, they are guaranteed to deliver the most pleasurable ride than any other bike. The Japanese company has grown leaps and bounces over the last 30 years and has been designing vehicles for every need and requirement. Honda Motorcycles promise to deliver satisfaction and that is exactly what they have been doing over the years.
The Honda Motorcycles are unique in many technical as well as physical aspects. Buying Honda motorcycles put you into the club of those who have made the right decision at the right places. And if you already are a proud owner of one you must be aware of what I?m talking about. Satisfaction par excellence is what Honda promises and delivers.
Honda manufactures motorbikes for every terrain and reason. Whatever the climatic conditions might be, the Honda motorcycles turn out to be the most reliable machinery of all. Whether it be racing, off road trekking or the day to day house hold activities, the Honda bikes are all that you need. Honda motorcycles are unarguably the best and they constantly keep proving their metal through all the impossible tasks that they accomplish.
The Honda Super Cub has been the most popular product of Honda for over the decades. These are one of the longest running models any company has ever produced. Honda Super Cup were started in 1958 and it has been delivering the goods ever since. And by now there must be millions of satisfied customers who must eagerly await another super machine like it. These bikes are best suited to today?s economy as they are much more fuel efficient than any other motor bike in its league. And of course it has been the most popular vehicle all across Asia.
The multipurpose utilities of Honda vehicles make them the most popular choices among the everyday users and the racers alike. Producing champions in sports like Moto GP has been just another hobby for Honda.
Gen Wright
Matchbox Cars & Hot Wheels as Collectables
Posted by admin in Cars on 04 19th, 2011
Matchbox and Hot Wheels cars flourished as popular toys for decades, and continue to do so. However, in recent years, these die-cast cars have also spurred on a new realm of collecting. Toy collecting has been around for some time and those individuals naturally started to collect toy cars as well. However, there have been many individuals that got their start in, and stayed exclusively in, die-cast toy cars.
Collecting Matchbox cars and Hot Wheels is something that wide varieties of people have come to enjoy. One of the reasons for this is that most people, especially men, enjoy cars. In fact, some are ecstatic about cars. People’s love for cars naturally draws them to toy cars. People also dream of owning cars well beyond their reach, and while a die-cast car cannot be enjoyed the same way, they allow people to own their dream car. In fact, they could own dozens of dream cars.
One of the major reasons that collecting Matchbox cars and Hot Wheels became so big is because of the multiple variations of models. This is especially true of older Matchbox cars. In the process of painting a line of cars, if they ran out of paint, they would simply use extra paint left over from another run, often of a different color. This usually meant that only a small portion of that particular model was the second color, and therefore much rarer. As every collector knows, the rarer an item, the more its value goes up. Matchbox was also known, especially early on, to make other slight variations within one run similar to this. These were often due to manufacturing adjustments. There are also cases where factory workers would accidentally apply incorrect elements to the wrong model. These two facts created multiple variations of cars and are often not discovered until years later when someone realizes that their car is different.
Other variations also create rarity. Another very common one is the fact that the same model would be reissued multiple times over the years, usually with changes or improvements. These variations included graphics/paint schemes, wheels (rim style), door & hood lines and even opening parts like hoods and doors. Obviously, the older cars are worth more but occasionally flawed cars are not caught until after some make it to the stores. The numbers of these incorrect cars that make it out, depend on how fast the company catches the mistake.
Die-cast toy car companies are now also catering to the collectors with special releases and lines of cars. This is especially true of Hot Wheels. They have begun to release a ‘Treasure Hunt’ series that highlights popular past models with new paint jobs, usually chrome in color. This series releases twelve cars per year and occasionally a thirteenth that can only be received through a mail offer and proof of purchasing the other twelve Treasure Hunt models for that year. Hot Wheels also releases cars enclosed in a black blister pack, concealing the car from the buyer. These ‘Mystery Cars’ are often black themselves. One last thing that contributes to collector’s interest is the special edition cats that companies make for their employees as holiday, anniversary or special occasion gifts. It is also important to mention that some collectors are interested in models designed to replicate vehicles from other companies, race cars, farm machinery and many others.
Wesley Skiles
http://www.articlesbase.com/collecting-articles/matchbox-cars-hot-wheels-as-collectables-675229.html
The History Of The Legendary Harley Davidson Motorcycles
Posted by admin in Motorcycles on 04 19th, 2011
Harley Davidson is a famous brand of motorcycles, and it all started back in 1901 when a young man by the name of William Harley crafted a blueprint of an engine that would fit onto a bicycle.
In 1903 the very first Harley Davidson motorcycles were made available to the public when William Harley and his friend Arthur Davidson produced one built as a racing motorcycle. It was purchased by one of their childhood school friends, Henry Meyer. During this time, the Harley Davidson production plant was nothing more than a crude wooden shed with the words “Harley Davidson Motor Company” scratched across the front door.
1905 was an important year for Harley Davidson, as they hired their first full time employee and one of their motorcycles won a race in Chicago, putting them on the map in a sense. Years and years go by, and the 1950′s find Harley Davidson’s winning races, being featured on magazine covers with Elvis Presley, and becoming a household name among race and motorcycle enthusiasts everywhere.
In 1983 the Harley Owners Group was formed, and was referred to as H.O.G. It became the largest motorcycle club in the world to be sponsored by a factory. In a mere six years, the club had grown to include more than 90,000 members. In 1987, Harley Davidson became listed on the New York Stick Exchange, and owners everywhere realized what a wise investment they had made!
More years pass, with Harley Davidson inventing new motorcycles on a regular basis, winning more races, and selling more motorcycles than any other manufacturer. In 2006, Harley Davidson appointed the first authorized dealer of their motorcycles in China.
Today, Harley Davidson produces a wide variety of motorcycles that come in all different styles, shapes and colors. Harley Davidson not only makes recreational and sport racing motorcycles, they also make touring bikes. The Ultra Classic Electra Glide is the king daddy of them all, loaded with extra features and offering the ultimate in comfort. It even comes with an advanced audio system!
While Harley Davidson is most well known for their motorcycles, they also produce a full line of accessories to compliment their motorcycles. Some of the available accessories include sidecars, saddlebags and pouches, chrome covers, windshields, seats, mirrors, backrests, hand controls and sissy bars.
They also make a full line of clothing including leather goods, warm, cold and wet weather gear, helmets, gloves, jackets, vests, shirts, pants, boots, eyewear, as well as racing attire. There clothing accessory line is available in a wide range of sizes for men and women, as well as children.
If you are in the market to buy a Harley Davidson, you’ll be able to find one no matter where you are in the world. Harley Davidson has dealerships in over 60 countries, and as a company employs more than 9,000 people.
Joe Goertz
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/the-history-of-the-legendary-harley-davidson-motorcycles-61432.html
Rinspeed’s first underwater Car
Posted by admin in Cars on 04 18th, 2011
Rinspeed will present its new sQuba, the worlds first diving car, at the Geneva Motor Show (March 6-16). The car is not only able to drive on roads autonomously with a push of a button (thus without a driver, passenger or further assistance), but can also transform into an amphibious vehicle which can be submerged in water up to 10 meters (33 feet). An electric motor with powerful torque drives the rear wheels, while the propulsion on the water is ensured by two propellers in the stern and two powerful jet drives in the bow propelling the vehicle under water while diving. When underwater, the driver and passenger are enclosed in the vehicle thanks to light weight body components made of futuristic Carbon Nano Tubes and are supplied with fresh breathing air by the self-contained on-board system.
Duration : 0:5:18
How to Ride a Motorcycle for the Very First Time!
Posted by admin in Motorcycles on 04 18th, 2011
More info below in this video’s description V V V
If you want more advice and videos about riding check out http://www.m13online.com
Alright, regarding the braking issue…a few people have said that you should learn to use both brakes from the beginning……and I agree. But just not the VERY beginning. Because the VERY FIRST time you use a bike it’s confusing enough without two different brakes being thrown in….one of which if pulled too hard can drop the bike on it’s side in a flash. So the point of this video is to learn how to use the clutch….and while focusing on that….it’s best to just focus on that. And when coming to a complete stop…..you should be braking rear 90% and front 10%. Which is the opposite of how you brake when traveling at speed.
Please check out my YouTube profile and my newer videos: http://www.youtube.com/user/13mordeth
“I’m about to turn 42 and bought a motorcycle a week ago. I always wanted to ride one but never did and figured my time for trying new things is running out.
Until now, I have had zero luck getting my bike on the road. Time after time, I’d let out the clutch, lurch forward a foot and stall out. I haven’t taken my motorcycle instruction class yet, but my experiences so far left me feeling too incompetent to ever drive the thing.
I’ve talked to a number of my friends who have bikes, and none of them gave me any useful advice. Your video, however, let me get it going in first gear. I actually moved the bike without lurching and stalling.
I just wanted to say thanks.”
Duration : 0:8:37
Seized Property Auction – Buying Cars and Real Estate for Cheap
Posted by admin in Cars on 04 18th, 2011
Nearly everyday law enforcement agencies across the country seize various properties that are connected to criminal activities. Once this property has been processed and used as evidence during the criminal trial phase the government no longer needs to keep this property. To offset storage and processing costs these properties are then offered for sale at a seized property auction.
There is no cost associated with attending a government auction as they are open to anyone who is at least eighteen years old who has a valid driver’s license or ID. Just be sure to do some up front research so as to familiarize yourself with how property auctions work. One thing is for sure, there will be no shortage goods and items to bid on. Here’s a short list of what you can expect to find.
1. Vehicles – Cars, trucks, and SUVs are probably the most common items to be found. You will also find RVs, boats, ATVs, motorcycles, and in some cases even aircraft. Most of these vehicles have low starting bids and can be successfully purchased for much less then their market value.
2. Real estate property – The government and local law enforcement agencies seize all forms of real estate. Homes, businesses, undeveloped land, commercial property can all find its way to government seizure auctions. And much like vehicles it can be had for well below market value.
3. Furniture and household items – When real estate is seized everything inside the building has to be dealt with as well. This can be a great way to furnish your home for pennies on the dollar. Plasma TVs, Xbox’s, Playstations’s, stereo equipment, couches, dining room sets, and just about any other household item you can think can be purchased at big discounts.
4. Art work, antiques, jewelry, and designer clothing – There is no shortage of stuff to bid on at an auction. People who run afoul of the government soon find all their stuff being auctioned off to the highest bidder, including the clothes off their backs. It is the government’s way of recouping money that otherwise would fall on the tax paying public.
A great way to find out what you can bid on is using an online government seized property auction website. They keep up to date on all government auctions occurring all across the country as well as all the items that will be up for bid. This can give you a head start on other auction goers as you prepare your list of items that you wish to purchase.
Andrew Bicknell
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/seized-property-auction-buying-cars-and-real-estate-for-cheap-680327.html
Buying Used Motorcycles
Posted by admin in Motorcycles on 04 18th, 2011
There are lots of motorcycles to see and decide about especially if you want to buy used motorcycles. With these babies you really need to know what you want and need other wise you are definitely heading for trouble. When you start your search for used motorcycles check out the various well known and if possible reputed motorcycle dealers.
These are the places where you will find great bargains when you decide that you want to buy used motorcycles. You can also see what the internet has in the way of used motorcycle dealerships. From these you can see what the various types of used motorcycles are like and if they fit your plans.
When you have chosen a few different bikes find out what the selling price is first off. This way you can figure out if you want to spend your money on this road monster or if you want to shop around for a couple of other models. Now on the off chance that the price of the motorcycle is what you have earmarked to buy used motorcycles then you need to go much deeper into the motorcycles various attributes.
From looking at its engine size to finding out where you can take this bike there are lots of items that you need to investigate. Of course if the dealer or person who is selling the motorcycles has no time or doesn’t want you to check the bike out then you should drop the matter like a hot potato.
Any motorcycle that you can’t check out to see if it’s in good condition for you has lots of flaws and problems that are being hidden. Therefore spending your money to buy used motorcycles that have way too many problems is ridiculous unless you want to buy used motorcycles that are of a vintage make and style.
Now when you start your investigation, first look over the tires and see if they are in good shape. Any tires that are worn out will need to be replaced immediately. You should see if then braking mechanism and the engine are also in good working condition. To find this matter out ask if you can take a test drive. With a test drive you can get the feel of the motorcycle.
There is one important consideration that you will need to take into account before you buy used motorcycles. The matter of vehicle insurance and registration must be taken care of before you start riding your new motorcycle. So you will need to find out from the seller or the owner what the status of these items is like. You should clear this matter up before you buy any used motorcycles.
When you want to buy used motorcycles there are many items that you will need to take into account before you can begin the joy of motorcycle riding. For this very reason take the time to choose a good condition used motorcycle.
John Pawlett
http://www.articlesbase.com/motorcycles-articles/buying-used-motorcycles-93865.html
Motorcycle Insanity
Posted by admin in Motorcycles on 04 18th, 2011
Can this guy ride or what…… way insane….
This was filmed in Athens, Greece.
The (Greek) rider Sakis Sinioris, who is editor in chief, for the magazine Moto, made this video (disc included with magazine Moto), to draw attention to the magazine, in turn it drew in to much negative attention, The magazine Moto, has promised not to do anything like this again.
Duration : 0:5:41