BMW Recalls 2008 F650GS Motorcycles for Brake Disc Fastener Defect

BMW has issued a recall of certain 2008 F650GS motorcycles.

Due to production and assembly tolerances, the length of one or more of the front brake disc fasteners may be insufficient. If the length of a fastener was insufficient, this could result in the fastener not being tightened according to specifications. If this happened, the fastener could work loose from its threads. In some cases involving multiple fasteners, the brake disc could loosen, increasing the risk of a crash.

373 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

BMW Recalls 2008 F650GS and F800GS Motorcycles for Chain Sprocket Problem

BMW has issued a recall of certain 2008 F650GS and F800GS motorcycles.

The tightening of the chain sprocket fasteners may have resulted in various levels of torque being applied. It is possible for the fasteners to work loose from the sprocket, increasing the risk of a crash.

509 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Triumph Recalls 2008 Rocket III Touring Motorcycle for Pannier Rail Weld Defect

Triumph has issued a recall of certain 2008 Rocket III Touring motorcycles.

There could be a missing weld on the back of the pannier rail. The pannier rail may, after time, be weakened leading to a full fracture of the rail and possible loss of pannier and rail from the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.

8 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Top 10 Motorcycle Pictures of the Year 2008 from Motorcycle Views

The top ten motorcycle pictures were picked from pictures submitted to Motorcycle Views in 2008. The pictures are not ordered. They include three pictures of women on motorcycles, four pictures of men on motorcycles, and three pictures of motorcycles only.

The pictures were chosen for a variety of reasons. I looked at each picture, read each description, and picked those pictures that held my interest.

Check out the Top 10 Pictures for 2008.

Harley-Davidson Guarantees Sportster Trade-in Value

Even in these tough economic times, Harley-Davidson has found a way to lure more customers into their showroom: Allow trade-ins at the original sale price.

Harley has a plan to allow their customers who have already purchased a recent Sportster to trade it in on a larger model but essentially cancel the depreciation on the Sportster. Here's an excerpt from an article by Rick Barrett of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

"Harley-Davidson Inc. (HOG) has announced a new motorcycle purchase program that guarantees the trade-in value of a Sportster when traded for one of the company's more expensive bikes.



Harley riders who either buy a new Sportster or trade in their recently purchased Sportster between Dec. 26 and March 31 will get the bike's original manufacturer's suggested retail price when they trade up to one of Harley's Big Twin or VRSC motorcycles." -- Rick Barrett, Milwaukee, Wisconsin Journal Sentinel

Read the complete story.

Harley-Davidson Recalls 2009 FXD, FXDB, FXDC, FXDF, and FXDL Motorcycles for Jiffy Stand Defect

Harley-Davidson has issued a recall of certain 2009 FXD, FXDB, FXDC, FXDF, and FXDL motorcycles.

The jiffy stand spring anchor may have been built with a defective weld that may allow the jiffy stand assembly to not retract as intended. This condition could lead to a crash which could cause injury or death to the rider.

3285 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Ducati Recalls 2007-2008 1098 Models and 2008-2009 848 and 1098R Models for Charging System Problem

Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2007-2008 1098, 1098 Tricolore, and 1098R motorcycle models and 2008-2009 848 and 1098R motorcycle models.

The motorcycle charging system may be adversely affected by engine heat and stop operating. This results in damage to the voltage regulator and ensuing battery discharge.

7130 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Will Shiftless Motorcycles Become Mainstream?

An article in the New York Times by Stuart F. Brown examines why shiftless motorcycles may bring new life to motorcycling. Consider the fact that many potential riders have never even driven a car with a stick shift. Riding a motorcycle without an automatic transmission becomes a daunting task. Here's an excerpt from the article:

"CAR sales, already in a deep funk, would probably be slower yet if automakers decided to offer no alternative to manual transmissions. Makers of street motorcycles have largely painted themselves into that corner. And with the effects of stalled credit markets flattening out a 14-year streak of steady growth — despite the allure of good gas mileage in a wobbly economy — it’s no surprise that manufacturers are mounting an effort to introduce more rider-friendly bikes." -- Stuart F. Brown

Read the full story for all the details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Mel and Comanche

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Mel on her 2004 Honda VTX1800. Also see Comanche with his 2008 Suzuki Boulevard C50T. Note the artistic treatment in this picture. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Kawasaki Issues Recall of 2008 ZG1400 Models for Rear Brake Problem

Kawasaki has issued a recall of certain 2008 ZG1400A8F/A8FL and ZG1400B8F/B8FL motorcycles.

Trapped road debris may interfere with free movement of the rear brake pedal, preventing full release of the rear brake which can lead to overheating damage and possible brake failure.

4628 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Harley-Davidson Issues Recall of 2009 FXD Motorcycles for Fuel Leak Possibility

Harley-Davidson has issued a recall of certain 2009 FXDB, FXDC, FXDF, and FXDL motorcycles.

These motorcycles have a fuel tank vent tube assembly, part no. 27389-04A, which may have been produced with a defective ultrasonic weld on the anti-slosh valve. If the valve separates and the bike is tipped over, it may leak fuel. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.

349 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Triumph Recalls 2008-2009 Thruxton for Brake Caliper Defect

Triumph has issued a recall of certain 2008-2009 Thruxton motorcycles.

The installed front brake caliper bracket bolts may be too short, reducing thread engagement of the bolts into the brake caliper bracket.

87 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ackme

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Ackme with his 2005 Triumph Tiger. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Polar Bear Grand Tour - Port Jervis, NY Ride

Last weekend, the Polar Bear Grand Tour ride was to Port Jervis, NY. I was feeling a little under the weather so I opted to take the car instead. After this ride I drove to a special Thanksgiving party held by my GWRRA NJ-F (F-Troop) chapter at Old Man Rafferty's in Hillsborough, NJ.

I encountered few bikes on the road to Port Jervis as I passed through three states (NJ, PA, and NY) to get there. However, when I arrived, the parking lot was filled with bikes whose riders were waiting for the flight leaders to show up with the sign-in books.

Usually, I'm riding Jane's white trike in memory of her but the trike was in the shop getting two new U-joints installed. I plan to have it on the road for the run to Hopewell, NJ on November 23rd.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Herb

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Herb with his 1997 Honda Gold Wing SE. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Doug

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Doug with his 2007 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

2009 Motorcycles

I've just updated my Motorcycle Makes and Models feature to include the major 2009 motorcycle models. Take a look.

Polar Bear Grand Tour - Old Bridge Ride

I've been a little behind in posting Polar Bear Grand Tour rides.

The first was to Cape May, NJ on October 26. The members of GWRRA Chapter NJ-F (F-Troop) accompanied me and waited while I took pictures.

The second ride was to Lewes, DE on November 2. This was a 360 mile roundtrip for me. I took six videos in addition to the usual pictures.

Last weekend, the ride was to Old Bridge, NJ, a staggering 26 mile roundtrip for me. I decided to stay for the complete sign-in from 11:30 to 1:30. I took four videos.

These Polar Bear runs will be helping me greatly to get through this winter season without Janie. She was always with me on these runs. Back in 1992 when I first decided to join the Polar Bears, I really didn't think she'd be interested in riding a motorcycle in freezing weather. But as soon as I brought up the idea, she said, "I want to do that too!" Thus began 16 years of winter riding, meeting hundreds of new friends and encouraging others to join the ranks of the Polar Bears.

I have dedicated this season to Janie. I'll be riding her white trike and displaying information about her Jane Ann Kern Memorial Web site where her life is discussed and her charities listed along with donation links.

God Speed Jane Ann. She loved polar bears, in general, and the Polar Bear Grand Tour, in particular. I hope you have some time now in your new celestial position to watch out for all of us and help us to stay safe.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ed

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Ed with his 2003 Honda Gold Wing GL1800. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Jonquiers

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Jonquiers on his 2007 Yamaha YBR125. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - ThFireman's Wife and Keithva99

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See ThFireman's Wife with her 1976 Honda CB750F Super Sport. Also see Keithva99 on his 2000 Kawasaki "Indian Drifter." For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

BMW Recalls 2005-2006 HP2 Enduro Motorcycles for Paralever Problem

BMW has issued a recall of certain 2005-2006 HP2 Enduro motorcycles.

The front threaded fastener of the Paralever link may not have been tightened to correct specifications. If the fastener was not tightened according to specifications, it could loosen. Over time, it is possible for the fastener to separate from its housing. If this were to occur, then the final drive of the motorcycle would not be properly supported.

365 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Ducati Recalls 2008 Desmosedici RR Motorcycles for Fuel Tank Drain Hose Defect

Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2008 Desmosedici RR motorcycles.

The fuel tank drain and breather hose clamps may be installed incorrectly. This nonconformity may cause the fuel lines to weaken and break. This can result in damage to the motorcycle and a potential hazard to the rider.

289 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Buell Recalls 2009 1125CR and 2008 1125R Motorcycles for Cam Chain Problem

Buell has issued a recall of certain 2009 1125CR and 2008 1125R motorcycles.

These motorcycles can experience a premature failure of the rear cylinder cam chain tension guide (part number F0020.1AM). This can cause plastic debris to block the oil pump screen, possibly leading to oil starvation and engine seizure.

140 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Buell Issues Recall for Windshield Problem on XB12XT and XB12XP Motorcycles

Buell has issued a recall of certain 2008-2009 XB12XT and 2009 XB12XP motorcycles.

The windshields may become dislodged and allow the windshield to either strike or distract the rider while the vehicle is being ridden at a high speed. This could result in a crash, which could cause injury or death to the rider.

624 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Habitat for Humanity Ride - I Ride for Jane

Since the death of my wife, Jane, just 49 days ago, I've received a "circle the wagons" type of protection that never seems to leave me. I receive telephone calls almost every evening from my three grown children wanting to know how I am, what has happened that day, and if there's anything they can do for me. Well, my family has tried to stay close in the past but this new communication blitz is different. I guess it is expected when a tragedy occurs that affects all members of the family equally. Before, telephone calls from the kids were normally short calls taken after the kids had already talked to their mother and just wanted to ask me for some kind of advice that only a dad can give. Now, the calls are very personal lasting from 20-60 minutes with all subjects fair game. In a way, this is kinda nice.

In addition, the motorcycle community has been providing me with a zone of security when I ride. For example, the members of my Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) chapter often go on dinner runs. They try their best to make sure that I'm getting out of the house on a regular basis and getting a decent meal so I get calls to remind me that an event is coming up. Such was the case when I got called to go to Big Ed's BBQ on October 2, 2008. Mike calls and says that they will be over to pick me up. That means that at least two motorcycle riders will show up in my driveway at an appointed time. I pull my trike out and fall in behind the lead rider while the second rider falls in behind me. I am now in the protected position. All moves in traffic are communicated over the CB radios we have on all the bikes. Lane changes are announced as the rider in back seizes the lane first and then notifies me and the lead rider to move over. We move as a unit with military precision. This is a very neat way to travel.

We had a great time at Big Ed's and on the way back to my house -- again in the protected mode -- Mike says over the CB, "You know, we'd really like to see you come out this weekend for the Habitat for Humanity Ride."

I knew about the ride. It was to be an escorted ride of up to 1000 motorcycles. Each rider had to register and make a donation or get sponsors to pledge money for their participation in the ride. The goal was to raise enough money to buy materials to build a new house for a disabled military veteran in the Freehold, NJ area -- a worthy cause, indeed.

I told Mike, "I'll think about it."

Mike came back with, "Well, listen Walt, this will be a great ride and you won't want to miss it."

The wheels in my head were going round and round as I arrived home and said my farewells and thanks for the escort to Mike and his wife as they headed back to their own home five miles away.

There were only two more days until the Habitat ride and I hadn't registered or donated anything yet. So I got an application by emailing another chapter member, "Just Bob."

I decided that I would ride my wife's white 1998 Honda Gold Wing Motor Trike with the pegs down in her honor. Jane was going to take this ride with me.

On Sunday, October 5, 2008, I rode Jane's trike -- without any security detail -- two miles to where we were to assemble at 8 a.m. This picture was taken just after I arrived at the chapter staging area. You can see the white trike on the right. Note my red helmet on the seat with special tiger ears and tail affixed. My chapter, known as F-Troop, often rides with these tiger ears and tail to attract attention and be seen better (and to just have fun). Jane always wore these so I wore them also for this ride.



One of the members of F-Troop, known as Blondie, likes to carry the tiger tail and ears to its extreme manifestation and rides with a full-size tiger character in the pillion position. Also, note the tiger ears and tail on her helmet.



After all the F-Troop riders had arrived, we rode over to the main parking lot at the local theater and parked up front so as to be near the beginning of the parade. Seen in front of the two columns of F-Troop bikes is "Just Bob."



There were several people who wanted to ride in the parade but were not motorcyclists. A few sidecar rigs were provided to give these folks a ride to remember. Here is another Bob with his sidecar top up, waiting for a guest passenger.



The parking lot quickly filled up with motorcycles. Riders registered, got coffee and donuts, and chatted waiting for the opening ceremonies.



Here's a closeup showing F-Troop members in red.



Here's a picture up front showing the mass of machines.



There were many beautifully painted motorcycles with military themes. The following two pictures show one such motorcycle.





The color guard formed and a young woman prepared to sing the National Anthem.



A local priest gave the invocation and blessing of the bikes and prayed for a safe ride for all.



Then the ride began. This was an escorted ride. That means that all traffic on the side streets is stopped and the police stand at all traffic lights and stop signs to allow us to pass without stopping.

The problem with parades of this sort is that the riders in front will get way ahead of the riders in back forcing the riders in back to speed up to extremely high speeds to keep up. Therefore, it's necessary for riders in front to go slower to keep the group together.

We proceeded on a route through western Monmouth County that covered approximately 70 miles before turning onto the Route 33 Bypass at Millhurst Mills. From there it would be a straight ride for 5-6 miles before leaving that road and winding around country roads to reach the destination at the Colts Neck Firehouse on Route 537.

But before that, we traveled over scenic, winding country roads past horse farms and protected farm land. F-Troop members had a great time chatting on the CB about various points of interest along the way and making jokes and side comments. It was a great way to spend a fall Sunday afternoon.

At times, we were in open areas with curves both ahead of us and behind us. You could look forward and see 50-100 bikes winding left and right in front of you and you could look in your rear view mirrors to see similar movements behind you. There were no interspersed cars, just motorcycles for as far as the eye could see in front and to the rear. Quite a sight!

When we arrived at Millhurst Mills and turned onto the Route 33 Bypass, there was some confusion and slowness of the motorcycles ahead of me. When I turned onto Route 33 and headed east, it was a straight stretch of highway and since our speed was well under the speed limit, the bikes had bunched together in a mass formation. It was beautiful. A solid mass of machines tightly formed and moving with precision. I thought of Jane whose spirit was riding with me in the pillion seat. She would have loved this ride. She loved formations like this that displayed the beauty of motorcycling to non-riders. I had to wonder what the people in the cars on the other side of the road were thinking seeing a solid mass of motorcycles traveling in the other direction. Would they know that we were out raising $55,000 to build a house for a disabled veteran? Probably not. We were the ones who knew what we were doing and that's all that mattered. Did anyone know that I was riding with Jane's trike and Jane's spirit on the back. Not a chance. But I knew and many of my fellow riders knew. That's all I cared about.

When we arrived at the Firehouse and parked on the grass, we lined up for a great lunch put on by a local restaurant, The Cabin. Here's a few pictures of that scene.





It was announced that $55,000 had been raised by the ride and that was enough to buy the materials to build a house for a disabled veteran. Also, there had been 767 bikes in the ride -- a new record.

Here's a picture of that great F-Troop group that accompanied me on the Habitat Ride. That's me, second from the left. Jane wasn't riding with me this year but her spirit surrounded us for the whole trip and made her trike run the smoothest it's ever run.



Thanks Jane for 47 years of wedded bliss. It was quite a ride. Godspeed.

All pictures ©2008 Walter F. Kern

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Laurie and Terry

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Laurie on her 2008 Yamaha V-Star Silverado 650. Also see Terry on his 1998 Suzuki RM250. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Piaggio Recalls Aprilia Scarabeo 500 for Fuel Hose Problem

Piaggio has issued a recall of certain 2006-2008 Aprilia Scarabeo 500 motorcycles equipped with Bitron Spa fuel pump/fuel filters. The fuel hose connecting the fuel filter to the fuel pump/fuel filter mounting flange may come loose. If this connection is loose, or has become completely disconnected, there will be a drop, or loss of, fuel pressure to the engine.

850 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Roger "ThFireman"

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Roger "ThFireman" with his 1982 Honda CB900 Custom. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Kawasaki Issues Recall of 2008 KL650E8F/KL650E8FL for Turn Signal Defect

Kawasaki has issued a recall of certain 2008 KL650E8F and KL650E8FL (California) motorcycles.

The turn signal stalk(s) can break, resulting in the signal assembly hanging by the wire harness. This could create a possibility of a crash resulting in injury or death.

5804 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Joan and SpyderTom

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See SpyderTom on his Ironhorse Legend Trike. Also see Joan on her Piaggio MP3 250 motor scooter. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Kawasaki Recalls 2008-2009 Vulcan Models for Gas Tank Leak

Kawasaki has issued a recall of certain 2008 Vulcan VN900C8F and VN900D8F and 2009 Vulcan VN900B9F and VN900B9FL motorcycles.

Fuel can leak from between the tank filler neck and the fuel cap gasket. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.

604 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Bob

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Bob with his prize-winning 1982 Honda CB900 Custom. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Yamaha Recalls XC50 and XF50 for Cracked Connecting Rod

Yamaha has issued a recall of certain 2007 XC50 and XF50 motorcycles.

A crack may develop on the connecting rod. If the engine continues to be run, the crack will develop further and the connecting rod may break. If the connecting rod breaks, the engine will stop and cannot be restarted increasing the risk of a crash.

4800 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Triumph Recalls Sprint ST1050 for Rear Suspension Defect

Triumph has issued a recall of certain 2008 Sprint ST1050 motorcycles.

There is a possibility that the single bolt that is used in the 3 positions on the rear suspension drag link assembly can become brittle and fracture.

372 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Victory Recalls 2008 Vision Motorcycles for Engine Stalling

Victory has issued a recall of certain 2008 Vision motorcycles.

The terminal nuts that secure the main power supply wires could be loose at the circuit breaker, which can cause an unexpected loss of electrical power to the motorcycle and the current fuel ignition map pre-programmed into the electronic control module (ECM) can cause engine stalling.

2444 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Sons of Anarchy - New Motorcycle TV Show on FX

Check out The Sons of Anarchy on the FX TV channel this Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at 10 pm ET. This is an original series centered around both a family that rides motorcycles and the motorcycle club family of which they are a part.

I had heard of the new HBO series, 1%, but it's going to come out much later than this one on FX. There was controversy about 1% because Sonny Barger, founder of the Hells Angels, had brought a lawsuit against HBO. The folks involved with Sons of Anarchy do not seem worried about any legal action by anyone.

Here are a couple of links to stories about this drama that some are referring to as "Easy Rider Meets the Sopranos."

http://blog.meevee.com/my_weblog/2008/08/sons-of-anarchy.html

http://vtwinshow.wordpress.com/2008/06/04/biker-wars/

The show also has its own fancy website:

http://fxnetworks.com/shows/originals/soa/#Nav/Homepage

I'm sure there will be mixed reviews on this new show. It will be portraying the lives of motorcycle riders who come from a small segment of motorcyclists. It will be dramatic and might result in non-motorcyclists tending to paint you with the same brush that the creators of Sons of Anarchy used to define its players.

This new series may not be as great as The Sopranos -- which took early barbs for misrepresenting the Italian population -- but give it a chance. It could be like most of the big screen motorcycle club movies of the past with emphasis on violence and mayhem. Then again, with the extra time accorded by episodic TV, it may allow character development so we can begin to know the people involved in the story.

I know I'll be watching. Expect a review after I've seen the pilot and one episode.

Buell Recalls 2007-2008 Blast for Fuel Leak Defect

Buell has issued a recall of certain 2007-2008 Blast motorcycles.

The fuel tank may experience some local deformation under high-heat conditions that creates contact of the tank with the cylinder head. In some of these cases, the cylinder head rubbing on the fuel tank has created a fuel leak. This could result in a crash or fire, which could cause injury or death to the rider.

1307 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motion Pro Recalls Aftermarket Brake Levers for Suzuki Motorcycles

I usually only publish motorcycle recalls specific to the manufacturer but I'm making an exception in this aftermarket case involving Motion Pro and Suzuki.

Motion Pro, Inc. is recalling 10,000 aftermarket brake levers, model no. 14-0415, sold for use on certain 1999-2008 Suzuki motorcycles.

The lobe height on some of these levers are smaller and do not properly engage the stomp lamp switch which will not deactivate when the drive releases the brake lever. If this occurs, the stop lamp will remain on which could possibly result in a crash.

10,000 Suzuki motorcycles are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Wear a Motorcycle

What a concept! Just walk up to your motorcycle, strap it on, and move off at up to 75 mph.

One future-looking college student, Jake Loniak, has come up with a design concept and even has a realistic animation of how it might work.

Read the complete story by Annemarie Conte and Esther Haynes, view the animation, and glimpse into the future.

Motorcycle Pictures - Our Readers and Their Motorcycles

I think everyone likes to show off their motorcycle to others. That's why I started a motorcycle picture gallery nine years ago on the old site and continued it here on Motorcycle Views.

When I started my motorcycle pictures galleries, I didn't realize that it would be desirable to break down the pictures into sub-galleries. One of the first sub-galleries was Women on Motorcycles. That was a widely successful picture gallery since it allowed other women who were thinking about learning to ride, an opportunity to see other women motorcycle riders and their motorcycles and read descriptions of the motorcycles firsthand from the women riders. In essence, we were motivating women to learn how to ride a motorcycle.

All the pictures on the site come from visitors. I have a submission link to get the motorcycle pictures and motorcycle descriptions to me.

Here are all the motorcycle pictures galleries on this site. Click on the links to go to the gallery. If you want your bike in one of these galleries, send me a picture and description:


Motorcycle Pictures of the Week


Women on Motorcycles


Men on Motorcycles


Motor Scooter Pictures


Chopper Pictures


Trike Pictures


Old Motorcycle Pictures


21 Years of Honda Shadow Pictures


29 Years of Honda Gold Wing Pictures


47 Years of Sportster Pictures


58 Years of Indian Motorcycle Pictures


81 Years of BMW Motorcycle Pictures


100 Years of Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Pictures


All Motorcycle Pictures


All Motorcycle Pictures by Year, Make, and Model

Harley-Davidson Recalls 2008 FLH and FLTR for Fuel Filter Shell Defect

Harley-Davidson has issued a recall of certain 2008 FLHP, FLHPE, FLHR, FLHRC, FLHRSE4, FLHT, FLHTC, FLHTCU, FLHTCUSE3, FLHTP, FLHX, and FLTR motorcycles.

These motorcycles may experience a cracking of the fuel filter shell leading to loss of fuel pressure. This loss of fuel pressure can cause diminished performance and, in some cases, may cause an engine stall or a no-start condition. This condition could lead to a crash which could cause injury or death to the rider.

47579 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Chloe and Winter Warrior

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See new rider, Chloe, on her 2007 Kawasaki 125cc. Also, see Winter Warrior on his 2006 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

New Motorcycle Runs on Air?

A couple of university researchers from Taiwan have developed an air-powered motorcycle. Here's an excerpt from a report by Jessica Marshall from Discovery News:

"We may be driving on air in the next few years. That is, we may be driving vehicles powered by compressed air, instead of gasoline or diesel fuel.

Researchers Yu-Ta Shen and Yean-Ren Hwang of the National Central University in Taiwan have developed an air-powered motorcycle, which uses the energy in compressed air, rather than gas, to drive the motor." -- Jessica Marshall, Discovery News

Of course, the real benefits of such a system might best be achieved in an air-powered automobile that has more room to house the bulky mechanism necessary to pull this off.

Let the alternative fuel games begin.

Here's the complete story. Feel free to comment on this story in the Comments section, below.

Motorcycle Pastimes in the August Sun

It's been a slow week. Maybe people have finally decided to take a motorcycle vacation since gas prices are starting to inch downward again. Some have gone to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally but I hear that vendors and attendance there are taking a hit this year.

A lot of people are taking staycations this year. I guess I'm one of them. I have to save up to be able to participate in the Polar Bear Grand Tour that starts the last weekend of October. Gasoline for two trikes could end up costing $1000 for that six month tour throughout the winter. I take all the pictures at the various runs and maintain their website.

For those not out on their motorcycles, here's a few things you can do on my website:

• Take my Motorcycle Quizzes to test your knowledge of bikes.
  
• Play around with my online Motorcycle Jigsaw Puzzles. These puzzles use pictures I took on Polar Bear runs.
  
• Check out my Motorcycle Tattoos gallery. Got your own tattoo? Send it in.
  
• Look at my Women on Motorcycles gallery. Be inspired by women who ride their own motorcycles.
  
• Look at my Antique Motorcycle Ads gallery. See how motorcycles were advertised when they sold for only a few hundred dollars.
  

Now if only they had motorcycle racing or motorcycle trials in the 2008 Summer Beijing Olympics, there would be more to do.

BMW Recalls Certain 2007 Motorcycle Models for Steering Damper Problem

BMW has issued a recall of certain 2007 F800S, F800ST, K1200GT, K1200R, K1200R Sport, and R1200R motorcycles.

It is possible for the coating to separate from the inside face of the steering damper housing. If this happened, the coating could partially clog the oil bores within the damper. If this occurred, the steering damper could become stiff increasing the risk of a crash.

428 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

A Visit to Orange County Choppers - Road Trip

The regular monthly gathering of Chapter NJ-F (F Troop) of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) was held at the Empire Diner in Freehold, NJ on July 27, 2008. After the gathering, many members and guests rode to the Orange County Choppers (OCC) headquarters in Newburgh, NY.

We rode in three groups, each with a leader and drag rider. Most members communicated via CBs to keep the groups together and informed.

I had seen the guys from OCC in June, 2004 when I was at the Americade Rally in Lake George, NY. At that time they were becoming well known through their TV show, American Chopper.

The motorcycle community was split as to whether they were amateurs who got lucky or genuine biker craftsmen who knew how to create a masterpiece chopper. I think that most were amazed that they caught on so fast and made a bundle of money doing what backyard mechanics had already been doing for 30 years.

Sometimes when I attend a motorcycle rally, something unexpected happens. At Americade 2004, I found out that the Orange County Chopper (OCC) cast from the Discovery Channel's American Chopper (now on The Learning Channel), was going to be in the area. This was not an official Americade event. It was thought up by the town fathers of Bolton Landing, a town 10 miles north of Lake George. They felt that they needed to do something to attract some of the 60,000 or so Americaders and get them to spend some money in their town. Turns out that a few emails and a phone call did the trick and the whole cast of Orange County Choppers (OCC) showed up for a 4-day run to meet with their fans and sell a few autographed T-shirts.

The Teutuls: Paul Sr, Paul Jr, and Mikey have to choose carefully their visits to rallies to allow them time to build the theme bikes required on their TV show. They skipped Laconia that year and instead did Bolton Landing where they brought 20 of their most popular theme bikes. Here's a picture of Paul Jr signing my OCC T-shirt. My wife, Jane, stood in a long line to get these shirts signed.

The Teutuls were just getting started then. They still had a small shop but millions of fans were watching them on TV every week to see that next theme bike being built and to hear the yelling and screaming as Paul Sr and Paul Jr clashed.

Years passed and they built a bigger and bigger reputation. Now they were in a huge building in Newburgh, NY that contained a showroom of their merchandise and products. Tucked in the back of the building is a small factory where their choppers are built in the glare of TV lights and multiple cameras taping everything going on in the creative process including the antics of the Teutuls and their employees.

Many motorcyclists now visit the facility. It's almost a motorcycle mecca. In fact, our group from New Jersey was only a small part of the riders present that day.

I took a few pictures of the new digs for OCC. The place is quite impressive. I have written descriptions and captions for each picture. Take a look.

If you'd like to know more about choppers, take a look at my Choppers article, my Chopper Gallery, and my Choppers subject. I also wrote a book review, Orange County Choppers: The Tale of the Teutuls - A Motorcycle Book Review.

If you decide to take a trip to Orange County Choppers, you won't be disappointed. Just don't expect to see any of the Teutuls there on Sunday, the day we chose to visit.

First picture ©2008 Jane Ann Kern; second picture ©2004 Walter F. Kern

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Jimi

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.

See Jimi with his 2005 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic. Jimi is shown with his daughter. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.

Harley-Davidson Introduces the Tri Glide Ultra Classic for 2009 - a Trike

Yesterday, Harley-Davidson introduced its models for 2009. One of them is a motorcycle trike called the Tri Glide Ultra Classic.

Harley-Davidson hasn't made a trike since the Servi-Car that started out as a vehicle that could be attached to a customer's car so a mechanic could deliver the car and then use the Servi-Car to return to the garage.

Later the Servi-Car had other uses mainly for police use. Here's a YouTube video of a 1954 Servi-Car now owned by an enthusiast. He shows off the trike with the siren blaring.

Servi-Cars were made from 1932-1973. 35 years have elapsed since then without a trike in the product line -- until now.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has an article by Rick Barrett that gives more details about the new Tri Glide trike. Here's an excerpt:

"There’s a Harley-Davidson coming for those of us seeking more comfort or who have a fear of falling. Harley-Davidson Inc. has introduced a motorcycle for those of us with a taste for comfort or a fear of falling. The Tri Glide Ultra has three wheels and a brand-new chassis design. It retails for $29,000. The maker of Fat Boy and Softail bikes has sized up its customer base and found that many riders would rather be on three-wheelers than two-wheel behemoths that are too tall and too heavy for some people. Starting in the next few weeks, Harley will begin offering three-wheel touring bikes called trikes." -- Rick Barrett

Here's what Harley-Davidson has to say about the Tri Glide in a Press Release on its Website.

It appears that trikes are now more than just kits added to an existing motorcycle. They have attained a new level of acceptance as Harley-Davidson embraces them in its product line and, more importantly, backs them up with Harley-Davidson service.

I've been riding a motorcycle trike for eight years. My wife got hers before I got mine. I wrote an article about her experience in getting her trike.

In the beginning there weren't too many of us out there and we got a lot of attention on the road, in parking lots, and especially at gas pumps. I even wrote an article with standard questions I get and my answers.

I also wrote a How To about learning to ride a trike.

Then I created a Trike Picture Gallery.

Maybe trike riders are becoming mainstream after all. Thanks Harley-Davidson. Let's hope that Harley's 42 year run of Servi-Cars will be surpassed by a 50 year run of Tri Glides.

Picture ©2008 Harley-Davidson

Motorcycle Pictures by Year, Make, and Model

I have a lot of motorcycle pictures on my site. I've always had a feature that listed motorcycle pictures by year, make, and model. However, many of my motorcycle pictures were in sub-galleries and could not be reached by this method. That has just been revised so all motorcycle pictures can now be reached.

Take a look at the new Motorcycle Pictures by Year, Make, and Model.

If you have a picture of your motorcycle, please send it in along with a description of the motorcycle.