Motorcycle Picture of the Week - Stef

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Stef's Self-Made Harley-Davidson Evo Chopper under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Trikes Only, or Men on Motorcycles this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Piaggio Recalls Fly 50, Vespa LX50, and Vespa S50 for Ignition Problem

Piaggio is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Fly 50 4T 4-valve scooters, model year 2010-2012 Vespa LX50 4T 4-valve scooters, and model year 2009-2012 Vespa S50 4T 4-valve scooters.

The ignition control unit may fail and alter the ignition timing.

2147 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Kuryakyn Recalls Defective Floorboards for GL1800 Motorcycles

Kuryakyn is recalling certain aftermarket floorboards, part number 607005, sold and installed for use on 2001-2011 Honda GL1800 (Gold Wing) motorcycles.

The floorboard mount may crack and break free from the mounting bolts that secure the mount to the motorcycle.

21,600 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Polar Bear Grand Tour to Schoch's H-D on Dec. 18, 2011

Check out pictures of the 7th motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Schoch's Harley-Davidson/Buell in Snydersville, PA on December 18, 2011. It was the coldest day so far.

Top 10 Motorcycle Pictures for 2011

The top 10 motorcycle pictures were picked from pictures submitted to Motorcycle Views in 2011. The pictures are not ordered. They include one picture of women on motorcycles, two pictures of men on motorcycles, two pictures of trikes only, and five 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 2011.

Motorcycle Picture of the Week - Robert

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Robert's 2012 Ural M70 Solo 70th Anniversary Edition under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Trikes Only, or Men on Motorcycles this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Polar Bear Grand Tour Toy Run to the CABIN on Dec. 11, 2011

Check out pictures of the 7th motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to The CABIN in Howell, NJ on December 11, 2011. It was our annual Toy Run.

Motorcycles Used in The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo Movie

The new movie, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, required three identical motorcycles for the character, Lisbeth Salander, to ride. Here's an article in bikeexif.com that explains how these bikes were prepared for the movie and how the star was trained to ride them. Here's an excerpt:

"About a year ago, I finished reading the final instalment of Stieg Larsson’s 'Millennium trilogy.' I found these Swedish crime novels absolutely gripping—and not just because the heroine Lisbeth Salander rides a motorcycle. In two weeks, the US movie adaptation of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo will be released—so here’s a timely look at how the motorcycles used in the film were prepared. The job was given to Justin Kell of Glory Motor Works in LA, and it’s an insight into a rarely-seen aspect of the film-making process."

Read the article.

BMW May Introduce Scooters in 2013

BMW figures to introduce a couple of scooters to its lineup in 2013. An article in latimes.com by Susan Carpenter gives the details. Here's an excerpt:

"At this weekend's International Motorcycle Shows event in Long Beach, BMW is likely to confuse its image even further when its first scooters make their North American debut. Designed to capitalize on a trend in the world's largest scooter market -- Italy -- the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT are agile enough to cut through city traffic but large enough to also take a weekend trip." - Susan Carpenter

Read more

Motorcycle Picture of the Week - William

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See William's 1970 BMW R75/5 SWB under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Trikes Only, or Men on Motorcycles this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Polar Bear Grand Tour run to Montgomeryville Cycle Center on Dec. 4, 2011

Check out pictures of the 6th motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Montgomeryville Cycle Center in Montgomeryville, PA on December 4, 2011.

Honda Recalls 2001-2012 Gold Wing GL1800 for Rear Brake Problem

Honda is recalling certain model year 2001-2010, and model year 2012 GL1800 Gold Wing motorcycles.

Under certain conditions, there is a possibility that the combined braking system's secondary master cylinder may cause the rear brake to drag.

126,000 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Richard

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Richard's 2006 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL1200 Low under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Trikes Only, or Men on Motorcycles this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Polar Bear Grand Tour to Hillbilly Hall on Nov. 27, 2011

Check out pictures and videos of the 5th motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to the Hillbilly Hall, Hopewell, NJ on November 27, 2011.

Motorcycle Picture of the Week - George

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See George's 2000 Honda Valkyrie Interstate under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Trikes Only, or Men on Motorcycles this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Polar Bear Grand Tour to Barnsider Tavern in Sugarloaf, NY

Check out pictures of the 4th motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to the Barnsider Tavern, Sugarloaf, NY on November 20, 2011.

Motorcycle Picture of the Week - Herb

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Herb's 2007 Honda VTX1800 w/Champion trike conversion under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Bikes Only, or Men on Motorcycles this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

CFMOTO Recalls 2005-2009 CF250T V3 and V5 for Rear Brake Control Misplacement

CFMOTO Powersports is recalling certain model year 2005 through 2009 CF250T V3, and CF250T V5 automatic motorcycles manufactured from January 1, 2005, through December 31, 2009.

These models were built with a left hand rear wheel brake instead of the required right foot operated rear wheel brake. Therefore, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 123, "Motorcycle Controls and Displays."

6405 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Polar Bear Grand Tour to Old Bridge on November 13, 2011

Check out pictures and videos of the 3rd motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Old Bridge on November 13, 2011.

Riding Motorcycles in the Gambia

The following story was submitted by David Beardsley, Siofe Village, The Gambia in Africa. David had sent me three YouTube videos for my YouTube Motorcycle Videos feature. He then offered to write an article about his life with motorcycles in this far off place to most of us. Here's his story:

"I decided it was the ideal time to have a mid-life crisis and search for my long-forgotten childhood, so about four years ago I decided that I should do something about it. Having given it much thought and being a practical sort of guy, I decided that a new motorcycle was in order -- decision made. “Easy” I hear you say - but there was a slight problem. I live in The Gambia, West Africa, and new motorcycles are rarer than chickens’ teeth and anything required has to be imported and manufacturers’ warranty is not something mentioned here. The only dealer importing motorcycles brings in SYM from China - designed for anyone vertically challenged as the seat height is lower than the ground clearance on most children’s bikes and the acceleration is something akin to paint drying on a damp day.

The Internet is a wonderful medium for finding information - and more importantly - specifications so I spent time comparing specs and reading of other bikers’ views. I must point out that I am not exactly new at riding having started in my teens when BSA, Royal Enfield and Triumph ruled the roads and Japanese bikes were few and very far between.

My first motorcycle was a Francis Barnet, a whole 125cc, not quite as fast as a striking slug, but it did get me to and from work, etc. During the ensuing years, I rode an assortment of machines and, whilst a member of HM Forces, spent many happy years on a BSA B40. Along with some of my colleagues, I became quite involved in the Trials scene and this led to organizing events that were open to civilian riders. I rode the Welsh Two-Day several times on an Army B40 and have the medals to prove it! Anyone who has ridden one will tell you it is not the ideal cross-country machine as the suspension travel is only a few inches and it needs either a very skilled rider to negotiate the terrain or someone with considerable strength to pull it out of the Welsh Bogs, of which there were many. I fell into the second class of rider but what has that got to do with The Gambia and buying a new bike I hear you ask? Absolutely nothing but it was nice to reminisce.

Having hit the web, I decided on a Honda from Motosport of Tampa but, being a little on the chunky side, decided that I needed a reasonable amount of horsepower to move that bulk without strain. The chosen bike was the Honda XR650L, air-cooled, designed to withstand rough terrain but also built to an exceptionally high standard of engineering - what did we do wrong all those years ago that lost Britain the motorcycle industry? These were not being imported into the UK so went “States-side” to find what I wanted. I might just add that the dollar was at two to the Pound Sterling at this time so I got a terrific deal. I was also in the fortunate situation that someone was bringing a container from the USA and had some spare space - just ideal for the Honda that was still in its protective cladding from the factory.

The USA has some strange rules; one of them being the machine had to be removed from said cladding, built up, tested to make sure it was ok and then dismantled and repacked. This done, the bike was sent to the shippers and I sat and waited for my boat to come in. Eventually it arrived and was delivered to our house. For those who are interested, we live in the middle of the Bush near a village called Sifoe (visit: www.reducetheuse.org.uk) and just getting things delivered can be a trauma. Fortunately, a friend of ours, Paul, (an American missionary and working here) was also buying a bike, a Kawasaki, from the same supplier so the deal was he would deliver them to our house and I would put them together.

Have you ever seen two boys drooling whilst looking in the sweet shop window? Well that was us! It’s amazing how fast we managed to unpack the boxes just so that we could see what was inside.

As Paul lives quite a distance from us, his was first to be assembled so that he could get home before dark - roads are not good here because of the absence of street lighting and also there are the hazards of drivers who do not turn on the lights in case they might wear out the bulbs! There were absolutely no problems putting them together and we even put Airseal in the tyres to reduce the likelihood of punctures from the debris that litters the roads and tracks here.

The Honda went together very easily and looked stunning. Getting on it is quite easy if you have a step ladder or are 7-feet tall as the ground clearance is an impressive 13 inches, making the saddle height a daunting 31 inches from Terra Firma. This gives a whole new meaning to getting your leg over! This is a tall bike but it handles magnificently and corners superbly despite what you may think.

The engine was carefully run in. As an ex mechanical engineer, I still believe that easy treatment during the first couple of hundred miles pays dividends at a later date. Time will tell! During this time, it was noticeable that the engine was definitely not delivering the power of which it was capable because of the smog prevention kit and spark arrestor that are fitted to comply with Californian legislation.

Baja Designs are whiz kids with the XRs and a quick email resulted in a Smog Block Off kit and the replacement Dynojet goodies. These arrived at about the time that the running-in was completed and I got to work on removing the air pump, smog canister and rubber piping that was surplus to requirement. I must praise Baja for their superb after sales service and the helpful, knowledgeable staff they employ. Carburettor duly modified, I gave the bike a road test; the response was amazing - and I still had to do the exhaust. The Gambia does not, as yet, have noise or emission controls so there was no problem in taking out the spark arrestor from the exhaust - it now sounds superb and has even more power. Ultimately I purchased a Big Gun exhaust that sounds fantastic and improved the response even more.

The road conditions here are ok but tarmac is only laid on the main roads so it really is an off-road paradise but care has to be taken as goats, donkeys and monkeys tend not to observe the Highway Code. Children are not taught even the basics of road safety so great care is needed at all times. The surface can change from tarmac to compacted earth to loose sand faster than a speeding bullet so tyre choice is very important. The bike was fitted with Bridgestone TWs, good on the road, not bad on the hard pack but awful on loose sand and, as I needed something that would be suitable for all surfaces, I hit the web again.

Life is full of surprises and, whilst searching, came across Trellesport Tyres in The UK. They were advertising a tyre designed for the Swedish Army that met all my criteria so I telephoned them. I last saw Gwyn Barraclough in the early ‘80s when we both competed in Army Motorcycling at National and International level. Gwyn competed in the ISDE on numerous occasions - but then he was good. When I spoke to the person at the other end of the telephone, I had no idea who it was but, when I gave my name, he asked, “Are you by any chance Dave Beardsley?” They do say it’s a small world; suffice to say, I now buy all my tyres and heavy duty tubes from him or Janet (when Gwyn is away instructing riders at a well respected off road experience centre) - and always get excellent service. The tyres are the best I have used and are great in all conditions. Wear rate is also acceptable but could be improved if the throttle was used more gently.

The bike is now well and truly run in, having done 36,000 miles since delivery, hasn’t missed a beat and goes wonderfully well. The oil and filters are changed every 2500 miles and I only use Castrol oil as it is a known brand – lots of poor quality stuff is imported into Africa so it is a case of buyer beware. Fuel consumption is not brilliant, about a hundred miles to a 2.77 gallon tank (that’s the smaller American Gallons - and they say everything is bigger in America) but consumption would be much better if the throttle wasn’t kept in the fully open position by a rider searching for his childhood.

To see exactly where I live go to Google Earth, Latitude 13°11'37.41"N Longitude 16°40'51.63"W

I certify that this document is wholly written by me and no liability for any inaccuracies may be laid at the door of the publisher." -- David Beardsley, Siofe Village, The Gambia. 09 November 2011.

Be sure to look at David's three videos to see how he gets around his part of Africa.

Polar Bear Grand Tour Run to Lewes, DE on November 6, 2011

Check out pictures and videos of the 2nd motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Irish Eyes in Lewes, DE on November 6, 2011.

Honda Recalls 2010 NT700V for Incorrect Tire Label

Honda is recalling certain model year 2010 NT700V motorcycles manufactured from November 26, 2009, through November 27, 2009, for failing to comply with the requirements of Part 567, "Certification."

A tire information label applied to the swingarm may display incorrect tire size and air pressure specifications.

The number of units affected is 120.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Yamaha Recalls 2012 XTZ12B/BC for Fuel Pump Problem

Yamaha is recalling certain model year 2012 XTZ12B/BC (Super Tenere) motorcycles, manufactured from June 01, 2011, through August 31, 2011.

During the assembly process, the fuel pump o-ring may have been installed incorrectly in its groove.

The number of units affected is 1069.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Yamaha Recalls 2007 XVS1300/CT and 2009-2012 XVS95/CT for Fuel Leak

Yamaha is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 XVS95/CT (V Star 950/V Star 950 Tourer) motorcycles, manufactured from October 2008 through August 2011, and model year 2007 XVS1300/CT (V Star 1300/V Star Tourer) motorcycles, manufactured from August 2006 through March 2007.

There may not be a proper seal between the fuel pipes for the fuel injectors and the fuel hose that connects them due to an improperly molded fuel hose.

The number of units affected is 2800.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Picture of the Week - Bruce Mills

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Bruce Mills's 1981 BMW R100RT under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles, or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Polar Bear Grand Tour Run to Cape May - Oct. 30, 2011

The first meeting of the Polar Bear Grand Tour was in Cape May, NJ on October 30, 2011. This was the day after the great pre-Halloween snowstorm that devastated northern NJ, NY, and CT. See pictures from Cape May which was pretty much untouched by the snow. See pictures

Two Women Riders Receive BMW Mileage Award

According to an article published in Clutch and Chrome, two female motorcyclists have received the million mile award from BMW. Here's an excerpt:

"Travelling epic distances is nothing new to BMW Motorrad adventurers, but while many ride tens, or even hundreds of thousands of miles, two American women have racked up a record few could even contemplate. Enter Ardys Kellerman and Voni Glaves, who are officially recognized as the first female BMW riders in North America to cover one million miles (1.6 million kilometers). The distance, which is more than 40 times the circumference of the globe, took decades to accumulate and between them, the women have used 31 different motorcycles." -- Digits

Read the complete article.

Not Many Harleys are Sold in China

Sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in China are far less than sold in Milwaukee, WI, home of Harley-Davidson. Liza Lin of Bloomberg Businessweek reports:

"China’s population is almost 2,300 times greater than that of Milwaukee, where Harley-Davidson (HOG) is based. Yet after six years operating in China, the motorcycle maker still sells more bikes in its hometown. The reason: About 100 cities in the world’s most populous nation, including Beijing and Shanghai, have restrictions on motorcycles, including banning them from elevated highways and major thoroughfares to curb noise and thefts, according to the state-affiliated Society of Automotive Engineers of China." -- Liza Lin

Read more.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Bernie

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Bernie on his 2009 Yamaha Royal Star Venture w/2011 Hannigan Trike Conversion under Men on Motorcycles. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Bikes Only, or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Harley-Davidson Recalls 2009-2012 Touring, CVO Touring, and Trikes for Brake Switch Heat Problem

Harley-Davidson is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 touring, CVO touring and trike vehicles manufactured from June 6, 2008, through September 16, 2011. 25 models are included in the recall. The rear brake light switch may be exposed to excessive heat from the exhaust system. The number of units affected is 250,757. Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Picture of the Week - J. Marini

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See J. Marini's 1995 Honda Shadow A.C.E. 1100 under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Bloomberg Receives Chopper from OCC

Just saw this article and video in All About Bikes about Mayor Bloomberg of NYC receiving a chopper from Orange County Choppers' Paul Teutul Jr. The bike was commissioned by Dan Tishman, CEO of the company now rebuilding the World Trade Center. Take a look.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ted Hagen

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Ted's 2005 Kawasaki Mean Streak under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ted Hagen

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Ted's 1997 Boss Hoss custom trike under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Yamaha Recalls 2009-2011 V-Max for Oil Pump Problem

Yamaha is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 VMX17 (V-Max) motorcycles, including the YB, YCB, ZR, ZCR AG and ACG variants, manufactured from September 2008 through April 2011.

On affected motorcycles, high oil pressure can build up inside the oil pump causing it to malfunction.

The number of units affected is 2300.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Chris

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Chris's 2010 VW trike under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Gary A. Heil

Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Gary A Heil's 2007 Big Bear Sled Chopper converted to a trike under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Harley-Davidson "No Cages" Ad Excitement

Harley-Davidson has a couple of new commercials out that are different. The theme is "No Cages." Now we all know what the term cages means. But take a look at this article from Clutch and Chrome and view the two new Harley commercials. Harley wants you to get out of your cage. Here's an excerpt:

"While the battle between those who love Harley-Davidson's and others who don’t (sometimes with a passion) one thing is for sure, the most famous motorcycle company in the world certainly knows how to produce a commercial. The latest advertisement set in the theme of 'No Cages' was seen this week in the season premiere of the highly popular FX motorcycle drama 'Sons of Anarchy'." -- Digits from Clutch and Chrome

Read more.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Bill Robertson

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Bill Robertson's 2006 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL1200C under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

9-11 Stories - NYPD First Responder on a Motorcycle

I remember September 11, 2001. On the eve of the 10th anniversary of this tragic event, I encountered a report from Cape-Coral-Daily-Breeze.com by Meghan McCoy that lists many first-person stories from that day. One involved a motorcycle rider who was an NYPD first responder. Here's an excerpt:

"Andujar, who lived 75 miles northwest of the city, jumped on his motorcycle and traveled more than 100 miles per hour into the city. He said his was the only vehicle on the roadway and he encountered many roadblocks along the way. After showing his credentials he was allowed to continue." -- Meghan McCoy

Read more.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Gail

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Gail Smith's 1999 Honda Gold Wing 1500 w/Lehman trike conversion under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) to Sponsor Real-Time Accident Study

100 motorcycles, specially equipped with sensors and cameras, will be used in a first-ever MSF study to better understand motorcycle accidents. Here's an excerpt from an article published by Motor Sports Newswire:

"The first rider participating in the first-ever MSF 100 Motorcyclists Naturalistic Study rode off with a fully instrumented, data-logging bike from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) last week, marking the start of the year-long research project. Each of the 100 bikes, routinely being ridden in real-world traffic, and equipped with an array of data acquisition systems, will provide comprehensive, real-time, near-crash, pre-crash and actual-crash information that is unprecedented in motorcycle research."

Read more.

My New Motorcycle Book

I have written my first book, Getting Started Riding a Motorcycle.

The book is available only on Amazon.com in a Kindle edition.

For those who don't have a Kindle reader, you can download an app from Amazon for a PC, Mac, iPhone, Android phone, Blackberry, iPad, or Windows Phone 7.

Be sure to check out my new book. This link gives all the details including downloading the apps and buying the book. By the way, the book is only $2.99.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Doug

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Doug's 1986 Harley-Davidson FLHTC under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Triumph Recalls Tiger 800 & 800 XC for Defective Center Stand

Triumph is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Tiger 800 and Tiger 800 XC motorcycles manufactured from September 2010 through June 2011.

The optional accessory center stand assembly contains a defective return spring that may break.

The number of units affected is 668.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Triumph Recalls 2011-2012 Tiger 800 & 800 XC for Engine Management Software Problem

Triumph is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Tiger 800 and Tiger 800 XC motorcycles manufactured from September 2010 through June 2011.

There is a problem with the engine management software.

The number of units affected is 1485.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - John

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See John's 1998 Honda Shadow VT750 ACE under Men on Motorcycles. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Bikes Only, or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Ducati Recalls 2011 Diavel for Side Stand Problem

Ducati is recalling certain model year 2011 Diavel motorcycles manufactured from May 18, 2010, through June 13, 2011.

The side stand was manufactured with insufficient material in the pivot area.

The number of units affected is 919.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Liam

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Liam's 1970 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH Custom Chopper under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles, or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Triumph Recalls Sprint GT, Tiger 800, and Tiger 800 XC for Top Box Problem

Triumph is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Sprint GT, Tiger 800 and Tiger 800 XC motorcycles manufactured from June 2010 through June 2011.

The top box locking handle is missing a clip on the locking mechanism and thus it is possible that the top box may detach from the machine.

The number of units affected is 134.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally - August 8-14, 2011

Each year, hundreds of thousands of motorcyclists head toward what many feel is the motorcycling mecca of the world, Sturgis, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota takes place this year August 8-14.

Check out my article on this great motorcycle rally. See if you can see me waving in the picture when I attended the 1993 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. I really need to go back to this great rally. How about you?

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - John

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See John on his 2007 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL-50 under Men on Motorcycles. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Bikes Only, or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Kawasaki Recalls 2011 ZX1000 for Wiring Harness Problem

Kawasaki is recalling certain model year 2011 Ninja ZX-10R/ZX-10R ABS (ZX1000JBF/JBFL/KBF/KBFL) motorcycles.

It is possible for a portion of the wiring harness to become pinched between the rear subframe and the rear fender or between the rear subframe and the bolt holding the seat cover. This can damage the harness and wiring and result in a short between wires and the frame or within wires, which could result in the engine stopping suddenly.

The number of units affected is 2560.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Paul Duguay

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Paul Duguay's 1998 Honda Shadow Aero under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles, or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Joe Faltinek

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Joe Faltinek's restored 1952 Cushman Eagle under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles, or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Honda Recalls 2008-2010 ST1300 Motorcycles for Rear Brake Reservoir Hose Problem

Honda is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 ST1300 motorcycles manufactured from November 15, 2007, through May 27, 2010, model year 2008 through 2010 ST1300A motorcycles manufactured from November 7, 2007, through April 6, 2010, and model year 2009 ST1300PA police motorcycles, manufactured from November 18, 2008, through December 8, 2009.

When the rear suspension of the motorcycle is repeatedly bottomed out (fully compressed), the rear brake reservoir hose may become damaged and leak brake fluid.

The number of units affected is 2232.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Polaris Recalls Kingpin and Jackpot for Backrest Support Problem

Polaris is recalling certain model year 2004-2011 Victory Kingpin motorcycles and model year 2006-2011 Victory Jackpot motorcycles manufactured from January 1, 2004, through May 1, 2011, equipped with accessory seats, part numbers 2876641-01 seat, Kingpin Touring, double backrest and part number 2875961-01 seat, Jackpot Touring w/backrest.

The backrest support can separate from the motorcycle while in use.

The number of units affected is 1688.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Yamaha Recalls 2011 FJR1300 for Brake Light Problem

Yamaha is recalling certain model year 2011 FJR1300 motorcycles manufactured from January 2011 through April 2011.

The brake light may not illuminate when the front brake lever is applied because the activating mechanism in the front brake switch can bind.

The number of units affected is 260.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Polaris Recalls Indian for Side Stand Problem

Polaris is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Indian motorcycles for failing to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 123, "Motorcycle Controls and Displays."

The side stand may not fold rearward and upward if it contacts the ground when the motorcycle is moving forward.

The number of units affected is 699.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Polaris Recalls Indian for Body Control Module Defect

Polaris is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Indian motorcycles for the Body Control Module (BCM) which can cause the headlight to turn off in some circumstances.

If the headlight switch is slowly moved from one position to another (high beam to low beam or low beam to high beam), both beams may be on momentarily and the BCM interprets this as an overload condition.

The number of units affected is 699.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Ducati Recalls 2011 Diavel for Loose License Plate Holder

Ducati is recalling certain model year 2011 Diavel motorcycles manufactured from September 23, 2010, through May 12, 2011.

The brass inserts installed in the chain guard may deform over time, resulting in the possible loosening of the license plate holder retaining screws on the rear swing-arm. This situation could cause the license plate holder to become loose during normal operation of the motorcycle.

The number of units affected is 964.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Yamaha Recalls 2006-2009 FJR1300 for Electrical Problem

Yamaha is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 FJR1300 motorcycles manufactured from February 2006, through March 2009.

The ground joint connector of the wire harness could overheat and become deformed, possibly causing an intermittent ground wire connection. If the electrical system is not properly grounded, the ignition system and/or other electrical components could malfunction, which could cause the engine to stall.

The number of units affected is 9850.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Fatality Facts

The U.S. Department of Transportation has issued its 2009 report on motorcycle fatality facts. AllAboutBikes.com has reviewed the report. Here's an excerpt from their report:

"Motorcycle fatalities only represent about a fifth of all fatalities on the road. In 2009, there were 23,437 fatalities involving passenger vehicles. But that doesn't mean that motorcycles are a safer way to travel. If you look at the amount of miles traveled, the government estimates that motorcycle deaths are 37 times more likely to occur." -- AllAboutBikes.com

Read more.

Best State in which to Ride a Motorcycle

Progressive Insurance has ranked the top states in which to ride a motorcycle. And the winner is ... Florida? Here's an excerpt by Bart Madson of Motorcycle-USA.com who comments on this ranking:

"Progressive Insurance came up with the rankings, publishing the top-20 states to ride based off its own research data. Florida topping the list nearly made me choke, but the inclusion of corn-covered, flat-as-a-board Kansas as fifth and Nebraska 14th! But, but, but… How?!" -- Bart Madson, Managing Editor, Motorcycle-USA.com

Read more.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Sundance Kid

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See the Sundance Kid's 1972 Harley-Davidson Sportster under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles, or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Kawasaki Recalls 2011 VN900D for Tire Problem

Kawasaki is recalling certain model year 2011 VN900D, Vulcan Classic LT, motorcycles.

The tire inner tubes might have been pinched during the mounting of the tires. Damage to the inner tubes could result in loss of air pressure.

The number of units affected is 436.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Bill

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Bill's 2006 Harley-Davidson Dyna Glide w/Champion Trike Kit under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles, or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Women are Riding Motorcycles in Greater Numbers

More and more women are getting off the back seat and climbing on the front seat of a motorcycle. Most are learning in special training classes. Here's an excerpt from a story and video from FOX 13 TV in Tampa Bay:

"Tammy Perkins is enamored when she gets on her motorcycle. 'It is freedom,' she said. Perkin's husband bought her a bike for Mother's Day. It is something she has wanted since she was a kid. Now that she is 40, and the youngest of her kids is out of high school, Perkins thinks she deserves it." -- Ken Suarez, FOX 13 News Polk County Reporter

Read more of this story and watch the video.

For more about women riders, check out Women in Motorcycling.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Men on Motorcycles - Jim

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Jim with his 1983 BMW R 65 under Men on Motorcycles. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Trikes Only, or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Honda Recalls 2010-2011 VT750 Motorcycles for Bank Angle Sensor Problem

Honda is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 VT750 motorcycles produced from June 25, 2009, to March 28, 2011.

The bank angle sensor may be incorrectly manufactured creating the possibility of an erroneous reading which could cause the engine to stall.

The number of units affected is 3020.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Jim

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Jim's 1999 Honda Gold Wing 1500SE Motor Trike under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles, or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

KTM Recalls 2010-2011 Motorcycles for Handlebar Problem

KTM is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 motorcycles manufactured from November 2009 through November 23, 2010.

Due to improper heat treatment, the handlebar clamps can develop cracks, allowing the handlebar to move from its set position.

The number of units affected is 1228.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Victory Recalls 2011 Cross Country for Handle Bar Problem

Polaris is recalling certain model year 2011 Victory Cross Country motorcycles manufactured from January 1, through April 11, 2011.

The handlebar clamps and/or risers may have been machined incorrectly which could cause the handlebars to slip in the clamps.

The number of units affected is 840.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Americade Motorcycle Rally - June 6-11, 2011

Americade is June 6-11. It's a big touring rally held the first full week of June each year in Lake George, NY. This year the headquarters has been moved from Roaring Brook Ranch to the Fort William Henry Resort, overlooking Lake George, on the hill above the Beach Road Parking Lot where Americade's daily MiniTours assemble. It's a little late to find a place to stay for the whole week but day trips can be fun too. This is the 29th annual Americade rally and probably the best organized family oriented rally you'll ever find.

Mary Murphy, Star of "The Wild One," Dies

The girl-next-door waitress, Mary Murphy, who played opposite Marlon Brando in "The Wild One," has died at 80.

For a classic picture of Mary with Brando in a scene from "The Wild One," read about her life and death.

Check out my feature, Motorcycle Movies: 10 Famous Motorcycle Movies, to learn more about "The Wild One."

Zero Motorcycles Recalls 2009-2010 DS and S for Front Brake Problem

Zero Motorcycles is recalling certain model year 2009 Zero S motorcycles built from September 2, 2009 through December 22, 2009; model year 2009 Zero DS motorcycles built from July 27, 2009 through December 28, 2009; model year 2010 Zero S motorcycles built from February 1, 2010 through March 31, 2011; and model year 2010 Zero DS motorcycles built from January 20, 2010 through March 31, 2011.

The front brake caliper bracket may experience permanent deformation when subjected to high braking loads. This condition could induce misalignment of the front brake pads with respect to the front brake rotor.

The number of units affected is 160.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Coming and Going on Bikes: Essaying the Motorcycle

I review this new Kindle book of motorcycle essays written by Jack Lewis. Here's an excerpt from one of the essays:

"Crank 'er up with the button, or use the kick lever if you feel nostalgic (and why wouldn't you?). The Ural sits panting like a puppy with a ball, slyly inviting you to play outside." -- Jack Lewis

Read the review.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Jenny and Ken

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Jenny on her 2008 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883L under Women on Motorcycles. Also see Ken on his 2007 Honda CBR600RR-7 under Men on Motorcycles. There are no Trikes Only or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Triumph Recalls 2010 Thunderbird for Fender Mounting Problem

Triumph is recalling certain model year 2010 Thunderbird and Thunderbird ABS motorcycles manufactured from September 2009 through August 2010.

These motorcycles were built with an incompatible thread locker/screw combination at the front fender mounting.

The number of units affected is 1955.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Polar Bear Grand Tour Dinner April 30, 2011

Check out pictures of the Polar Bear Grand Tour Dinner at Old Bridge, NJ on April 30, 2011. This was the last event of the 2010-2011 Polar Bear Grand Tour season.

Military Personnel Advised to Ride Safe in the Spring

It's May Motorcycle Awareness Time again. All the major publications are advising motorists to watch out for motorcycles. But the military has the same problem on its bases. At Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey, they take extra precautions to train their personnel in safe riding techniques and to promote safe riding including wearing proper protective riding apparel. Here's an excerpt from an article on their website by Staff Sgt. Carlton Anthony:

"No one expects to be seriously injured or die in a motorcycle mishap when Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst warriors begin hitting the roadways. Unfortunately, every spring the number of motorcycle mishaps spike due to several factors: inexperience, risky riding, alcohol, speed, distractions and fatigue. All these factors are preventable and may lead to fewer accidents during this time of year." -- Staff Sgt. Carlton Anthony

Read more of this article.

Five-Year-Old Brings His Harley to Preschool

Conor, a five-year-old preschooler, won a real Harley and decided to bring it for Show-and-Tell. Here's an excerpt from the article appearing in the Wausau Daily Herald by Molly Newman:

"Conor led a line of classmates past the Harleys parked outside the preschool at First Presbyterian Church, 200 S. Lincoln Ave. The 20-child class collected stickers, candy and toys and explored a firetruck and police car. The students also were outfitted with Harley T-shirts. 'It's my leader day. I get to be the leader,' Conor said." -- Molly Newman

Check out the rest of the article and see a picture.

Honda Seeks Patent on Motorcycle Airbag System

Could an airbag find its way to your next new Honda motorcycle? Honda seems to be serious about this. Check out this recent United States patent application for a motorcycle airbag system, complete with drawings. What are your feelings about an airbag for your motorcycle? Are there better alternatives available?

Ducati Recalls 2010-2011 MTS1200 and 2011 Diavel Motorcycles for Steering Defect

Ducati is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Multistrada 1200, and model year 2011, Diavel motorcycles.

The electronic steering lock may fail to disengage during the motorcycle "key-on" process. This has been linked directly to a certain revision of the hands free device software. It could result in a situation where the motorcycle's engine might start while the steering lock is still engaged. A rider could start the motorcycle and attempt to ride away while the steering is still locked.

The number of units affected is 1051.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Kunya

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Kunya's 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 650 under Women on Motorcycles. There are no Trikes Only, Men on Motorcycles, or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Polar Bear Grand Tour - Cape May, NJ on 4/17/2011

Check out pictures and videos of the 23rd and last motorcycle run of the Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Cape May, NJ on April 17, 2011.

Polaris Acquires Indian

From Business Wire:

"Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) today announced the acquisition of Indian Motorcycle. The business was acquired from Indian Motorcycle Limited (“IML”), a company advised by Stellican Limited and Novator Partners LLP, U.K. Private Equity firms. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed."

Read more.

For more information on Indian, read my article: Indian Motorcycles.

Polar Bear Grand Tour to Cheeburger Cheeburger in Flemington, NJ

Check out pictures and videos of the 22nd motorcycle run of the Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Cheeburger Cheeburger in Flemington, NJ on April 10, 2011.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - the Road Runner

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See the Road Runner's 2008 Honda Gold Wing under Men on Motorcycles. There are no Trikes Only, Women on Motorcycles, or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

MV Agusta Recalls 2010 F4 Motorcycles for Subframe Cracking

MV Agusta is recalling certain model year 2010 motorcycles for the rear subframe.

The upper fixture points may not be sufficiently robust, which may result in the subframe cracking and failing, local to the fixture points, during use.

The number of units affected is 211.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - pops14 and Frances Gomes

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Frances Gomes' 1994 Honda Gold Wing Trike under Trikes Only. Also see pops14's 1982 Honda Shadow CX500 under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles or Men on Motorcycles this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Polar Bear Grand Tour to Brian's H-D on 4/3/2011

Check out pictures of the 21st motorcycle run of the Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Brian's Harley-Davidson in Langhorne, PA on April 3, 2011.

Polar Bear Grand Tour to the Chatterbox on 3/27/2011

Check out pictures of the 20th motorcycle run of the Polar Bear Grand Tour season to the Chatterbox in Augusta, NJ on March 27, 2011.

Polar Bear Grand Tour - Long Valley Pub on 3/20/2011

Check out pictures and videos of the 19th motorcycle run of the Polar Bear Grand Tour season to the Long Valley Pub in Long Valley, NJ on March 20, 2011.

Polar Bear Grand Tour - Firehouse Eatery on 3/13/2011

Check out pictures and videos of the 18th motorcycle run of the Polar Bear Grand Tour season to the Firehouse Eatery in Rahway, NJ on March 13, 2011.

Polar Bear Grand Tour - Bahr's Landing, Highlands, NJ on 3/6/2011

Check out pictures and videos of the 17th motorcycle run of the Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Bahr's Landing in Highlands, NJ on March 6, 2011.

Motorcycle Haiku

Motorcycle Haiku are simple 3-line poems that express a beautiful motorcycle thought. Read some Haiku and see what I mean. Anyone can write one and submit it for the collection. Read the Haiku.

Polar Bear Grand Tour to Hooters on 2/27/2011

Check out pictures and videos of the 16th motorcycle run of the Polar Bear Grand Tour season to Hooters in Wayne, NJ on February 27, 2011.