Showing posts with label Motorcycle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motorcycle. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

The Right Octane Of Gas To Run In Your Motorcycle

Most owners manuals don't tell you what octane to run, they simply say: unleaded gas. If this is the best your owners manual tells you, or if you don't have one, read on. But if it tells you a certain octane of gas to go with, use that, your bike may need a higher octane due to high compression.

If your motorcycle has a turbo, a supercharger, or nitrous oxide injection, then this does not apply to you. You should know all about fuel mapping by now (if you don't learn!)

If your motor is heavily modified, with high-compression pistons etc, you will need to run a higher octane as well.

Ok, so, if your manual doesn't say what to run, you don't have a turbo, supercharger, nitrous, or really high compression, then:

There is a big misconception that you need to run the highest octane you can. This is false.

Octane: the amount of resistance to detonation

Higher Octane Gas: More resistance to detonation

Lower Octane Gas:Ignites easier and produces more horsepower, assuming no detonation is present.

Detonation: basically when the air/fuel mixture ignites at the wrong time and cause a tremendous increase in pressure in the cylinders. If it continues for a long period of time, it can ultimately destroy the engine.

However, most sport bikes are designed to run 87 octane gas, and will not experience any detonation, but will actually LOSE power by running a higher octane, plus it will make it run hotter as well.

Check the tank:

If it says: 90 ((RON+MON)/2) - Use 90 octane or better

If it "knocks" or "pings" at all, increase the octane until it stops.

Knocking and pinging: During detonation, when the explosion occurs it creates a shockwave that reverberates inside combustion chamber and raises the pressure immensely, creating a metallinc "pinging" sound. If you experience this, stop the bike immediately, turn it off, put a higher octane gas in there.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Motorcycle Maintenance - A Basic Guide

Here we have a few things you should check on your motorcycle on a regular basis. I assume you have a handbook with the specs for your bike, if not, go get one. You may be able to find some data for your particular motorcycle on the net. You can also pick up workshop manuals for various models on eBay in PDF or CD form for little money.

Whereas with a four wheeled vehicle you may get away with being lax with things like tire pressures etc, this is not the case with a motorcycle. You should not risk compromising the safety and stability of your motorcycle, for the sake of a bit of routine maintenance.

Pre-ride checks


Tires – check condition and for foreign objects in the tread.
Tire pressures – it is vitally important to keep your motorcycles tire pressures either on spec or very close to it.
Oil level – always check with the bike on level ground.
Coolant level – only if your bike’s liquid cooled, obviously.
Chain – check the tension and make sure it’s well lubed.
Brakes – check they work and that they feel good.
Lights – check all your lights, especially the brake light, you don’t want to get rear ended, do you?
Visual inspection – self explanatory.
All ok – hit the road.
Periodical checks


Check battery – see that the connections are tight; I dropped a bike once because of a loose battery connection, strange but true. Also check the electrolyte level on some batteries, a lot of newer batteries are gel filled, sealed for life types, so no need with these.
Carb balance – if your bike is multi carbed get yourself a Morgan carbtune or similar. It can be a little tricky the first time you balance them, but when you’ve done it once, the second time will be easy.
Ignition timing – only necessary on some bikes, most newer models have electronic ignition which does not need touching, normally.
Valve clearances – unless you’re a good home mechanic, take it to a dealer.
Wheel bearings – grab each wheel with it off the ground and see if there is any sideways play. There should be none or maybe a trace at most.
Steering head bearings – with the front end off the ground, grab the forks and push and pull. There should be no play.
Swinging arm bearings – with the back wheel off the ground, check for any sideways movement in the swingarm, there should be none.
Brakes – check fluid levels, brake hoses for deterioration, and pads/shoes for thickness.
Cables and levers – should operate smoothly. Get some grease on lever/pedal pivot points, and get some lube down the cables, if you can. A cable oiler is a handy tool.
Nut and bolts – go all round the motorcycle with your spanners and check that all nuts/ bolts/screws are nice and tight.
Well, that’s about it for some basic maintenance, obviously, unless you’re a good home mechanic, any bigger jobs will have to go to a dealer. The problem can be finding a good one with skilled mechanics you can trust. I manage to keep my Yamaha Fazer 1000 running sweet just using the steps listed above. It does help that this model only needs the valve clearances checking every 26,000 miles.

Monday, May 31, 2010

7 Tips to Choosing the Best Motorcycle Helmet

So, why do you need to choose the best motorcycle helmet? What exactly is the best motorcycle helmet? It's the best if it suits your needs perfectly. What might be well suited to your friend, might not necessarily be all that suited to your needs. You need comfort, safety and the right price.

In this article we'll cover 7 tips you can take to ensure you're getting the best motorcycle helmet for your needs. Whilst it might seem obvious what features to look for, this article will go over some tips you can take to ensure you get the most for your money.

1- Does it fit?

One of the most important things any motorcycle helmet must offer is safety. Many inexperienced riders will often buy a helmet that's too big. Whilst this may be more comfortable it doesn't offer enough protection if it's too loose.

2 - Is it comfortable?

You may be wearing your helmet for long periods of time such as on long journeys. Therefore it's very important your helmet's comfortable. You don't want to get a headache half-way through your journey which will cause a distraction.

3 - Is it competitively priced?

It may seem a bit obvious, but some manufacturers can get away with charging above market value for products. However, brands such as Nolan offer helmets that give optimum performance at competitive prices. Lookout for Nolan Helmets next time you're shopping.

4 - Have you tried it on?

It's surprising how many people will buy a motorcycle helmet without trying it on. You need to make sure it fits properly and is comfortable. Even if you're buying online you can easily exchange it for the right size if it doesn't fit.

5 - Is it suitable?

What type of biking will you be doing? If you're using your bike for commuting you'll need a different sort of helmet than if you use your bike for sports. Caberg helmets are great for off-road biking and sports usage.

6 - What gender is the helmet built for?

There are differences between male and female helmets. Since head shapes vary slightly between genders. To ensure your safety and comfort you'll need to get the right gender. There can often be style differences too.

7 - Are you happy with it?

Finally, are you happy with your chosen motorcycle helmet? Can you afford it? Is it fit for the job? If the answer to all these is yes, then you have found the best motorcycle helmet for you. Being happy with you purchase is the most important thing to consider if you want to get a long life from it.

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Learning How To Ride A Motorcycle

When you have observed an experienced motorcycle driver ducking and diving through turns and accelerating and stopping both quickly and efficiently, you become aware that there is a great deal more to driving a motorcycle that you first think. To those without any knowledge of motorcycle riding it looks as if all you have to do is jump on and away you go, but really and truly nothing is further from the truth. Driving a motorcycle requires the knowledge of new skills and much patience when learning how to balance yourself on the bike.

You will, of course, need to be in possession of the correct type of clothing when driving your motorcycle which may well be something you have overlooked. You are likely to be braving the elements while you are out and about on your bike so being properly kitted out is a must. Even though some motorcycles are fitted with specially designed windscreens, this is sometimes not enough protection from the force of the wind you will be facing when driving, not to mention the insects you will find sticking to your teeth! Pay a visit to your local motorcycle dealer who will assist you to become familiar with the best type of helmet, protective gloves, jackets and boots to ensure you have a safe and comfortable ride.

Hopefully the motorcycle you intend to ride will be in a good condition. Make sure the wheels and tires are roadworthy, check on the fluid levels, and regularly inspect the safety lights and horn to make sure they are in perfect working order. The chassis and stands should also be kept an eye on too.

The experts suggest that once you are learning how to ride a bike it is important that you know or can envisage just how much it hurts to come off a bike by accident. To stop yourself from coming off the bike it is important to master the center of gravity of the bike, especially for when turning corners. Throwing your leg over your bike as you get on it should be the most physical movement you make and from then on in it is all gently gently.

The grip on the right hand side of the handlebars of the bike, known as the throttle, moves when you take a hold of it and pull it towards you. This provides the engine of the bike with the necessary gas to move forward. Whilst driving your right hand controls the front brake of the motorcycle by pulling inwards on the lever to the side of the throttle. The brakes on a motorcycle are very sensitive so normally two fingers are sufficient to stop the bike. The rear brake is located in the foot area on the right side of the motorcycle.

The changing of gears is the final thing you will need to know how to do. Many motorcycles use the "1 down-5 up" gear shifting method. Probably the most difficult aspect of learning the gears is finding the neutral gear with your foot. Once you have mastered that, it is just a matter of repetition when you engage the clutch with the left hand, find the correct gear with your left foot and then disengage your clutch.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Planning for Custom Motorcycle Parts

Most bike owners want to add a personal stamp to their machines. After market motorcycle parts make this easy no matter what your technical skill is. However before slapping on custom chrome everywhere, you want to have a plan. You want your bike to have a consistent look and feel, not a patchwork appearance.

Design the entire bike

As you shop for custom motorcycle parts, you will find a piece here and there that speaks to you. It might be a set of motorcycle fenders or chrome motorcycle tanks or something else. If you just snatch up these parts and slap them on the bike then you may have a cool spot here and there, but the overall image will be weak.

Instead, use these individual parts as inspiration for an entire design. Think about how each piece compliments the other, how they fit the lines of your motorcycle, and how they match the image you want to relate. A unifying theme makes the whole bike greater than the sum of its parts and will lead to a custom creation that will turn heads.

You don't have to have a complete design plan at this point but you want some idea of your goal.

Now that you see the whole, look at the pieces

Once you have a design concept, start mentally taking the bike apart.

Start with the front end. Replacing the wheels or forks will create sweeping changes in the look of the bike, but smaller details like axle covers add subtlety that really separates you from the crowd.

Move your focus along the bike to the engine, the dominant feature of the machine. Chrome motorcycle parts like lifter block covers really draw the eye and tell everyone that you aren't riding a stock bike. Of course the engine is more than just pretty and there are many custom motorcycle parts that will improve performance.

The other important component in this area is the seat. Unless the bike is just for show, you want to consider your comfort. Options for seats and handlebars can make riding your motorcycle an even greater pleasure.

Now move along to the back end of the bike. Here again you have both functional and decorative choices. You can add bags for cargo capacity, a comfortable seat for a passenger, or you can strip off the function and chrome out the back end to leave a dazzling final impression.

Shop for the right parts

Once you have the design details down, it's just a matter of finding the right custom motorcycle parts to fit. The custom job doesn't have to cost more than the bike did, either. You can find discount motorcycle parts that are high quality additions to your street machine.

Take the time to make a plan so you will have a bike that is an extension of your true self, not an off-the-shelf carbon copy of every other one out there.

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Options to Consider For After Market Yamaha Motorcycle Seats

Not everyone wants to stick with the stock seats that come with their motorcycles. Some find these seats uncomfortable due to the amount of riding they do or a poor fit, and others just prefer a different look. Whatever your reasons for choosing to get a new motorcycle seat, there is no end to the options available. Many people choose seats by companies such as Mustang, Granucci, or Corbin, but there are other companies out there that make after market Yamaha motorcycle seats. Some choices include Pacific Coast Star, Sargent, and Ultimate Seats.

Yamaha motorcycle seats for a number of different bikes are available from Pacific Coast Star. Those with RS Warrior bikes can get either their Original or their Potato Chip style seats for this bike. If you would like to sit a bit lower on the bike (three inches or so) than the stock seat and admire seats with a seamless and sleek look, the Potato Chip will probably suit you. For those who really want a comfortable seat but like the look of the stock seat, the Original seat from Pacific Coast Star will probably be the best option. This company also makes other styles of seats for other Yamaha motorcycles.

Yamaha motorcycle seats are available from Sargent as well. The Sargent motorcycle seat for Yamaha FZS1000/FZ1 01-05 motorcycles is a good choice as it requires almost no maintenance. The inside is composed of a proprietary Super Cell Atomic Foam to make them as comfortable as possible, especially on long rides. The seat cover is made of marine-grade and UV-stabilized upholstery that can be color coordinated.

Owners of Roadliner/Stratoliner, Road Star, Royal Star, V-Star 1100 Classic or Custom, and V-Star 1300 Classic motorcycles can get custom made Yamaha motorcycle seats from Ultimate Seats. There are a lot of different options to choose from. You can choose to get front seats, passenger seats, front backrests, and/or rear backrests individually or as a set. These seats can be either plain or studded and made out of vinyl or leather in a number of different colors. A silver star logo is the standard embroidery, but you can choose from other options as well if you prefer. For those who want something a bit different, you can also get a two toned seat or one that is either partly or totally covered with synthetic ostrich. Due to the way these seats are made, they are not waterproof, only water resistant.

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Discount Motorcycle Helmets

Motorcycle helmets are a must. Many helmets are available today in different price ranges. And for our convenience, companies provide helmets at a discount.

Different companies make DOT-approved helmets in different sizes, colors and types. Some brands which are particularly popular among motorcyclists include HJC Helmets, Shoei Motorcycle Helmets, Nolan Helmets, Bell Helmets, RBC Helmets, and THH Helmets.

Some companies which sell DOT-certified helmets are Iron Horse Helmets, Motorcycle Helmets, Helmets Etc, Inc, Rider Gear, Motorcycle Buzz, Biker Needs, the Helmet Source, Helmet Store, Bargain Price Wholesale, and many more.

An amazing variety and collection of motorcycle helmets can be found at Ride Gear. Varieties like 'adult full face motorcycle helmets', 'adult open face', and others are available. Featuring helmets of nearly all brands, it offers great discounts too. Within a price range starting at $143.95, we can get full-face graphite series HJC helmets, which have a ventilation system, anti-fog system, scratch-resistant and UV-protected face shield, and many more features. Similarly, products from Icon, Nolan, and others are all available at great prices.

Places like the Helmet Source offer 'combo deals' which gives two helmets at one price. Usually shipping is an additional price, but there are companies which offer shipping at no extra costs.

All the helmets are of good quality, and DOT-approved. Certain companies offer a guarantee, or sometimes a refund or exchange \. For example, discounted helmets can further be exchanged or refunded within a fixed time period by some companies like Motorcycle Helmets and Iron Horse Helmets.

Discounts on motorcycle helmets help us get good-quality helmets and save money. But care should also be taken to see whether they are in good condition and approved by DOT regulations. After all, safety comes first; everything else is second.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Motorcycle Rider Balance for High Speed Turns

For those who own or race street bikes you know that the rider becomes one with the bike and together you make those high-speed turns. But what happens when you leave the ground? No I am not talking about going off the cliff near the Rock Store in the Canyons above Malibu, CA, what I am suggesting really is turning our motorcycle into an aircraft.

What you say? I thought this was a legitimate online article. Oh, but it is my good friend and fellow rider, it is indeed. You see I want to take a lightweight motorcycles, perhaps an F3 Honda Hurricane a strap on some extra equipment. Such as a propeller adapter and an expandable wing using the exhaust to blow it up. Okay now you know I am serious and do not tell me you have not thought of this, because all these bikes are missing is wings, obviously they can fly.

To maintain rider balance in high speed aerial turns you will need to have a strap harness incase you go negative "Gs" in a flight maneuver you do not want to fall off and you will have to work with the bike and the gyro affect when turning and keep the skidding to a minimum, but this can be done better and better with practice, although you must never forget once you leave the ground you no longer have that friction to keep you in place, things are different up here.

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Enclosed Motorcycle Trailers

Looking for information on enclosed motorcycle trailers? It can be tough to shop for these types of equipment. Our review of the different kinds of enclosed motorcycle trailers and their pros and cons will help you to decide if they are the right motorcycle trailer for you. You'll be ready to hit the road in no time.

Is an enclosed motorcycle trailer the right choice for you? That all depends on what you are interested in hauling. If you are looking to purchase a trailer that will get you and your things across the country or world, then an enclosed motorcycle trailer is definitely necessary. If, however, you are looking for a way to haul things shorter distances or to transport certain types of equipment, you may want to reconsider getting an enclosed motorcycle trailer. Will another kind work for you?

If you still can't decide what kind of trailer to get, let us help you out. There are some pros and some cons to enclosed motorcycle trailers. Some of the pros include protection from the elements, ease of use when traveling long distances, and safety of your items when reaching top speeds. On the other hand, there are some cons. Enclosed motorcycle trailers tend to be the most expensive kind. Also, there are size restrictions. You may not be able to tow as much stuff if you don't spring for the larger trailer. Keep these things in mind when you are trying to decide what kind of motorcycle trailer to get.

There are several different kinds of enclosed motorcycle trailers. They come in a wide variety of styles and sizes. Smaller ones might be sufficient for you, and they are more affordable than medium or large trailers. If you are looking to haul a lot, however, you might be interested in a larger size. You should be able to find one large enough for anything you want to carry. Check out the different styles in person before you buy. Seeing the sizes up close will help you decide how much space you really need. And these trailers come in so many designs. Seeing them in person is the only way to decide what you prefer.

Friday, April 30, 2010

Buying a Motorcycle Helmet - Some Key Facts

Buying a Motorcycle helmet, at most times isn't such a big deal for bikers. Normally, a biker is likely to pick up an inexpensive, yet quite utilitarian motorcycle helmet from a store. He is likely to choose one that looks good and stylish too. In other cases, they may not buy the helmets themselves and ask their friends, relatives and companions to do the same.

In the whole process of helmet-buying, a person needs to clearly know what features he ought to look out for in a good motorcycle helmet. As was said in the case of a majority of bikers, just a few brief, passing glances are simply not sufficient. So what should a biker do, since helmet-buying a serious business? We will see soon.

What Helmet To Buy

There are many people who are of the opinion that helmet buying is not all that serious business. However, take my word, they're wrong! Surveys have revealed convincingly enough, that riders wearing helmets are less likely to crash than non-helmet wearing ones. Even if you meet with an accident you could come out of it with fewer injuries and avoid permanent disabilities, caused primarily due to head or neck injuries. Motorcycle helmets ARE IMPORTANT. The bottom-line is this.

Now, let me tell you that buying a helmet is not all that easy business, because there are factors apart from safety, those regarding comfort for example. The easier way to find out which helmet is of a greater quality is to ascertain if it conforms D.O.T. standard (Department of Transportation, US).

The determining factor that makes a D.O.T helmet is its impact-absorption ability and a strong fastening system that remains intact even in the face of worse accidents. They are well-made as they conform to some sort of a national norm. It is for this reason that it is wiser to choose even a non-expensive D.O.T helmet in place of an expensive one that does not meet D.O.T standards. It also provides additional features such as increased comfort and durability.

Other Functions Performed By A Helmet

There are also other things that a motorcycle helmet does. What? Well, to begin with, they cut out the extreme noise caused by winds while riding. And it also protects your eyes from insects and dirt. The helmet-visor gives you much improved vision.

Still thinking whether to buy a helmet? Don't think; start searching for your helmet right now. Also try to get a pair of motorcycle boots if you can. And don't forget a motorcycle jacket to protect your body - and help you look cool! Always keep in mind the interesting facts above when shopping for all your motorcycle goods.

And for help with your purchases, head online. Open your browser to Google or another top search engine. Type in keywords regarding the items you need, and then review listings that show up. When checking out on a site, watch for a secure browser or the "https" to be there. This means you can rest assured your transaction info remains confidential.

Friday, April 23, 2010

How to Check Your Motorcycle Before Riding It

Checking your motorcycle before you ride is very important for your safety. This will help you ensure that your motorcycle is in good condition. When your motorcycle is in top shape, you will less likely encounter an accident on the road.

Aside from wearing gears like leather motorcycle chaps, jackets, and helmets, checking your motorcycle before you leave can save your life. You have to monitor various parts every time. Keep in mind that if you fail to see that your brakes are loose or not working, you can end up crashing into another automobile or on the railings at the side of the road.

Knowing the how to check the various parts will make each of your trip safer. Here is a helpful guide to checking your motorcycle:

1. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation developed an acronym that you can use as a checklist when checking your motorcycle. This is the T-CLOCS. This stands for the tires, controls, lights, oils, chassis, and stands. The acronym is very useful. This will help you avoid missing anything when you are checking your motorcycle. You also have to remember that the T-CLOCS have sub parts that you need to look into as well.

2. The first on the list is tires. When checking the tires, make sure that it has the right level of air pressure. See to it that it is well inflated but not over the required rate. The tires are important because they are the objects that transport the entire machine. If the air is not the right amount, you will surely have difficulty balancing the bike.

3. The next items that you have to check are the controls. Most of the controls are on the handle. See to it that that the throttle, front brake, clutch, and the rest are working properly. You have to remember that there are also controls on the side of the motorcycle. Check those as well.

4. The next thing you have to check is the lights and other electrically controlled equipments in your motorcycle. All the lights should turn on when needed. You also have to see to it that the signals work when you use them. Try sounding the horn too. This is a very important device. It is the only way you can get the attention of the drivers and pedestrians who are not paying attention on the road.

5. Check the oil container and the rest of the fuel you need for the trip. You can check the gas by dipping the stick into the gas tank. Pour more gas if needed.

6. Check the frame or chassis of your bike as well. Include the other visible parts like the chain or belt.

7. Check the stands of your motorcycle too. You would not want your bike to lie on the ground because the kickstand is not working.

Before you wear your leather motorcycle chaps and the rest of your gears, check your bike properly first. This will ensure a smoother trip.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Snell Approved Motorcycle Helmets

The majority of motorcycle injuries often include some type of head injury, it is so important that you be wearing a good quality helmet when you are riding your motorcycle. However, with so many brand names out there today, how do you choose which one has the highest standards for crashes? All motorcycle helmets, by law must pass a Department of Transportation or DOT test and that sticker can be found on all motorcycle helmets, if it's not there, don't purchase it. Going above and beyond the DOT testing is the Snell Company.

Snell Memorial Foundation or SMF approved motorcycle helmets are tested in the Untied States only - Europe has there own brand of testing - and Snell require a higher standard of safety issues such as impact tolerance. Operating since 1957, Snell has been independently testing other manufacturer's helmets for safety concerns. Snell does not manufacture helmets themselves, only tests them. And they are a non-for-profit organization whose soul purpose is 'research, testing, education and development of helmet safety standards.' The SMF standards deal with the structural impacts and very high energy distribution centers upon impact.

Helmets must pass all four categories, quality control, retention system, environmental resistance and energy management in order to receive the Snell seal of approval. It is said that a Snell helmet is able to 'shrug off' all the things most probable to happen to the motorcycle helmet before it crashes and just after a crash. Leading to a wide inconsistency in performances is the fact that many manufacturers will test their own helmets which already have received a DOT certification, which could be the lowest possible rating.

There are four reasons to have the Snell certifications:

1. The riding of motorcycles can pose the risk of death or other permanent impairments due to head injuries.

2. The protective capacity of a motorcycle helmet is hard to measure.

3. The proper use of motorcycle helmets can reduce the risk of permanent impairments and death.

4. Snell certifications, backed by random sample testing identifies and maintains the highest levels of head protection available.

Snell currently purchases and test motorcycle helmets from the abundant supply available, in order to continually test and monitor the quality of the helmets available today. Testing is performed in a Snell research facility and only by trained Snell researchers. The following are Snell's standard testing procedures - Impact management, how well does the motorcycle helmet do with a collision against a large object; Extent of protection, the area of the head protected by the helmet; Retention system strength, are the chin straps satisfactorily strong enough to hold the helmet through a head impact, and finally, Helmet position stability, is the helmet going to stay in place - on the head - when it's needed?

Snell's standards are some of the most stringent in the world. They exceed DOT, The Consumer Product and Safety Commission (CPSC), the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). They only test one thing and that is motorcycle helmets and they do it well.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

How to Ship Your Motorcycle to a Rally

Want to ride the Black Hills of South Dakota, but don't want to spend half of your vacation just getting there? How about concentrating on enjoying the party at Sturgis or Daytona without the worry of a long haul home? Shipping your motorcycle is easier than you think, as long as you work with a reputable shipper, you can enjoy your trip more, and ship your bike without worries or hassles.

A few things to think about when you ship your motorcycle:



Can your bike be shipped in "ready to ride" condition? Unless you want to spend the first day of your trip unpacking and putting your bike back together, make sure your bike is shipped "ready to ride." This way, you don't need to drain the gas, disconnect the battery, crate or palletize, and your bike will be ready to play when you are.

Will your motorcycle be protected? Find out what kind of rig your bike will be shipped on. You don't want an open truck, or one where your bike will be wedged in with furniture or livestock. Consider working with someone who specializes in motorcycle shipping, so there are appropriate tie-down and suspension systems to protect your bike.

Door-to-door or pick up point? Find out if you can request your bike be picked up and dropped off right at your door or if you need to bring it to a pick-up point. Door to door delivery is a little more expensive, but the time and hassle savings are often well worth it.

Do you have enough insurance? Make sure your bike is insured for the full value in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Some shippers include insurance in the rates, with options to purchase more if you need it.

Plan well ahead.  Shipping cross country averages from 7 to 28 days. If you need your bike by a specific day, make sure you plan ahead.

Inspect your motorcycle.  Check out your vehicle and photograph or note any dings or scratches prior to shipping. Detailed documentation will help if an insurance claim needs to be filed.

Did you remember your keys? Attach your keys to your bike's handlebars with a plastic tie wrap. Also remember to bring a spare set with you. Or if you are sending the vehicle to another party, you can opt to ship the keys through an overnight carrier or with certified U.S. mail.

Shipping your motorcycle can open up a whole new world of cycling vacations. With a little planning, wherever you want to go, your bike can meet you there!