Motorcycle Beginning Safety: Tires and Controls

Be Smart. Be Safe.

Riding motorcycles have been the cool thing to do for a long time and maybe you are just beginning to ride and you want to make sure you do it right. Well, you are reading the right article! Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience but there needs to be a reverence and respect for the power that you have when riding your bike. Vehicles have radically increased in power and speed over the past decades. They also have increased dramatically in safety but this does not mean that we are invincible on the road. This is especially the case when motorcycles don't have a large metal cage to protect you from accidents along with all the other safety precautions that a car has over a bike. All the more reason you need to be safe on your bike. You don't want to be a tragic story on the news so please drive safe.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation was nice enough to come up with a great acronym to you keep safe. It is a simple checklist to go through before you hit the open road. I'll share each word to the acronym and why it is important to check each of these in terms of road safety. This is the first article in a three part series which explains T-CLOCS. Each article will explain two of the letters of this acronym. The acronym that the Motorcycle Safety Foundation uses is T-CLOCS which stands for:

T - Tires & Wheels
C - Controls (This includes any levers, pedal, cables, hoses & your throttle)
L - Lights (headlights, turn signals, mirrors, battery and any other light your bike might have)
O - Oil (fluid levels)
C - Chassis (your frame, your suspension, your chain, etc.)
S - Stands (center stand and/or kickstand)

Tires & Wheels- It is crucial to keep checking your tires. It is beneficial for your gas mileage to check the air in your tire. The better you take care of your tires, the better they will serve you. Also it is good to know where you are going and how long you'll be on the road so that you'll know the condition of your tires. They recommend changing your tires between 8,000 miles to 12,000 miles to stay safe. You don't want to be stuck on the road with a popped tire. You also have to take into account how hard you are riding. If you are all in and hit the road at a heavy pace and very consistently then you are going to want to be checking more frequently.

Controls - This one will be more obvious to check because these are what make your bike run properly. Check and make sure that everything that is connected to a cable works properly. Make sure everything is working smoothly because don't want anything caught up. For the brakes, push the bike in each direction and use both brakes to make sure they are working properly. Make sure the when it brakes, that it is firm and not lose at all. You can also test it out as soon as you get on the road to make sure it is road worthy. Also, make sure you check your throttle that it seems firm in its position and it isn't in a loose position where it could be snapped which can leave you on the side of the road.

Make sure all your motorcycle parts are working correctly and if you are looking for parts there are great websites that sell Yamaha Parts, Honda Parts, Harley Part etc... Online is a great way to shop for bikes.

I will be addressing the rest of the explanation of T-CLOCS in "Motorcycle Beginning Saftey: Lights & Oil" and in "Motorcycle Beginning Safety: Chassis and Stands"

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What Effect Do Wide Tires Have On Motorcycle Handling?

Often times, motorcycles are running on narrow tires which do not run on flat surfaces. This is completely different than how car tires work. Lately, however, motorcycle tires have been manufactured with wide proportions. Skeptics would tend to ask, what effect do wide tires have on motorcycle handling? This article will explain about this query and more.

The Rear Difference

Motorcycle tires with wide rears do not work the same with cars that have them. They have the tendency to tread more, therefore creating a situation where the motorcycle pushes through the turns instead of going around them. Since this is a very dangerous way to go, most people, when selecting their motorcycle tires, opt to have the front wider than the rear. The motorcycle actually appears to be more responsive with this type of tire. Still, you have to be very careful because the ride may still be a bit twitchy due to the combination of a short wheelbase and a wide front tire.

In general, it is always best to go both ways if you decide to have wider tires on your motorcycles. This is because motorcycle tires will have a great overall grip while retaining the handling balance if they have wider front and rear portions. Make sure, though, that you are particular with how wide your motorcycle tires are. They should not be more than 10mm wider or narrower than the stock tire. If this is the case, then it will result in pinch flats or a possible wearing out of the tires which may even result in a blow up.

Approved Installation

Nobody is stopping you from installing additional motorcycle apparel or making changes to your motorcycle tires. You should, however, only consider doing this if you have the approval of your motorcycle or tire manufacturer. Most manufacturers are keen on having their models altered. If they would approve of the changes in your tires, it would usually be minimal. One allowable size will do. Be safe with this alternative, and it is advised to get a clearance. The main reason why manufacturers see to it that these protocols are followed is because there is an effect on stability and handling with wider tires, as explained above. You see, tires often grow in size after inflation and may continuously do so after riding on them for a hundred miles or so. So, it basically means that it's more than just the tires that would change, your other gears should as well be adjust to the changes.

The Real Score

If your motorcycle tires are wide, they will obviously make wider footprints. Apart from this, it does have an effect on how you handle your vehicle. If you check your motorcycle's manual and consult its manufacturer, you will find that there are suitable widths for various types of motorcycle tires and suitable adjustments that need to be made on motorcycle apparel.

If you fail to read the guidelines, you will see that if you happen to have your motorcycle too wide, the inner parts of your vehicle will be struck and this may interfere with your road performance. Your driving will be a bit off. So it is best to have the width proportional to your motorcycle's other parts because you do not want to risk purchasing other parts that will give you a dangerously hard time on the road.

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Can You Make Your Motorcycle Tires Last for Longer?

Your bike is worth nothing without good quality tires to back it up. In response to the question in the title of this article: it is possible to make your tires last for a long time as long as you make the right selection and use the motorcycle tires diligently. The internet has become an important element in helping people to find the right products at the right price. It is possible to get some deductions on the standard costing models for this product as long as you use the comparison websites. For $25 you can get a second hand tire but there may be problems with it which increase the costs considerably. You also need to be wary of companies that insist that you have to buy all components from them. Try to extend the lifespan of your tires in these ways:

1. Your driving patterns: One of the single most important factors that you have to look at is the type of driving pattern that you expect to have. Try to find items that can stick on the road and ensure that there is enough "grip" capability for those racing moments. Tires with a good rubber compound are likely to last longer than those manufactured using alternative materials.

2. Understand how the tire responds: A soft compound will enable the motorcycle to stick to the road. However you will be faced with a problem in as much as you are expected to replace these tires fairly quickly. Hard compounds can last for a long time but they are not able to stick to the road. This can be unnerving for the driver.

3. Cruiser bikes have specific requirements: If you are planning on using a cruiser bike then you should look for hardy compounds. This will allow you to travel for long distances even if you are using an aggressive stance. A softer tire can give you better handling but it is really a matter of personal tastes and preferences.

4. Sports bikes have to be given the most appropriate tires in the set: Softer compounds are preferred by the professionals. The track that you are working with has an impact on your selection. Avoid the soppy compounds unless your trainer specifically recommends then in order to improve your technique. At the end of the day your comfort is one of the most important considerations.

5. Learn from the brands that have been successful: You should always follow the brands that seem to retain their popularity. For example the Bridgestone BT014 and the Dunlop 207 represent some of the best functionality within the industry. Generally speaking you should be able to keep your motorcycle going for six months without changing the tires.

Try to find good quality motorcycle tires if you want them to last longer. Keep away from aggressive riding because it tends to increase wear and tear. Once the tires are worn out then you need to replace them as a priority.

Further information can be obtained from here: Motorcycle Tires, Motorcycle Race Tires

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Tips for Selecting Good Motorcycle Race Tires

Motorcycle racing is a sport that has been around for centuries. This sport is enjoyed by experts and amateurs alike. There are several distinct kinds of motorcycle racing that are conducted and along with the sorts of racing there are a number of unique track sorts that are utilised as well. The varieties of racing that are the most well-known incorporate: Speedway racing, motorcycle trials, drag racing with motorcycles, motocross, ice racing and hill climbs.

Each and every different type of motorcycle race will demand a specific type of tire. As imagined all tires for any kind of motorcycle racing will need to have to have extreme traction. Most tires are created with extra grips on the surface. When racing a motorcycle it will grow to be essential to change the tires, just as you would if racing a car. This of course depends on the sort and length of the race you are involved in.

If purchasing a track day bike it will come stock with a super high quality race tire. This type of tire has been described as a racing tire that has been built for use on the street. DOT race tires will provide the rider the most grip of any tire and are created specially for motorcycle racing. These tires have a extremely brief tread life as they are not developed for riding for long periods of time. An off-road tire is knobby so it can dig into the dirt, mud, sand, or gravel.

There are no two tires that are created the identical. This is simply because there is a certain science behind the design of each and every motorcycle tire. These tires are all created for a certain style of riding. When racing motorcycles you will have to have to comprehend specifically what kinds of tires will give you the greatest feasible traction for the track that you are racing on.

Motorcycle racing is a science as nicely as a sport. As with most sports there is a lot of behind the scenes preparation that is involved in getting ready for an event. Motorcycle racers recognize that in order to have the finest race possible they will want to invest time and effort in finding their bikes ready. The tires that are chosen are possibly 1 of the most essential aspects of the bike. Without the correct tire, turns will be harder and the track will be more hard to navigate. Of course the engine and other essentials are required as properly, but beginning with a good tire will help you win races.

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Some Important Tips for Buying and Using Car Tires

For many people tires are the most import safety feature on the vehicle. They have been serving drivers for over a century. Because of the contact that they have on the road and the weight of the vehicle, it is important to buy the hardy ones. They can affect the function of your breaking and anti skid systems. The basic moves of driving including braking, steering and accelerating are transmitted to the tires through the contact patches. The basic structure of the part includes fabric, an inner liner, steel belts, the tread, the bead and the sidewall. These are the things that you need to watch out for.

1. Avoid defective tires: Do not use these tires if they are under inflated, worn out or even inappropriate for the terrain that you are travelling in. Their appearance alone cannot give you all the information you need. Therefore it might be necessary to get a professional assessment of the product before making a purchase.

2. Check the air levels: The basic tire is a flexible container with compressed air. It is therefore given the task of the supporting the load in all positions from side to back and forward. It is an important element in stopping and can cushion the occupants from road imperfections. A local garage can check the pressure to ensure that it is accurate.

3. Check the components: You need to ensure that all the components of the tire are available. In most cases they range from nineteen to twenty five. The inner liner is important for providing shape and holding the air. The bead is required in order to fasten the fabric belts.

4. Look at the steel belts: These are meant to provide stability and create a flat tread pattern. This will help you when you are try to keep contact on the road. Look at the sidewall to ensure that it is not damaged. You should consider a softer but tall sidewall because it can absorb the bumps on the road. On the other hand a shorter or stiffer sidewall will help you with steering around corners.

5. Learn to interpret the tire codes: Every passenger car or light track will be given a code which tells the driver about the types of tires that are suitable. The code is alphanumeric and starts with "P". It might start with the letters "LT" which signify that it is to be used for light trucks. Most of them have a maximum load which you should not exceed.

You should not ignore the important indicators when selecting a brand of tires. Whether it is Michelin, Dunlop or Pirelli race tires, the kind of usage will determine their durability. It might also affect the safety of the passengers.

Further information can be obtained from here: Motorcycle Tires, Motorcycle Race Tires

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Buying and Using the Right Motorcycle Tires

Finding a bargain on your motorcycle tires might appear to be straightforward until you start to actually use then when you realize that the deal is problematic. They may not have the basic requirements and might actually affect the safety of any person that is seated on the motorcycle. Moreover you may end up spending even more money through the constant replacements and repairs that are associated with cheap products. It does not have to be this way. You can take some precautions to keep your product going for ages:

1. Use the correct air pressure: In most cases the riders will not worry about the air pressure until it becomes a serious problem that is hindering their driving experience. This is very dangerous because over time the tires will lose all their PSI capability. You may also be breaking the law if you continue to ride in low pressure tires. By the time you increase the PSI, there will be irreversible damage to your vehicle.

2. Do not hesitate to go online if the standard stores are acting up: Stores tend to charge you high fees for mounting the tire if you bought it from another outlet. On the other hand they will install it for free if you get it from their branches. Moreover they will refuse to guarantee the tire and will charge you hourly rates that eat up all the savings.

3. Make sure that you take advantage of any warranties: Most tires will come with a warranty. For ordinary purchases there are two varieties of warranty that you can consider. The first is offered by the manufacturer while the second is bought from the store. Make sure that you are allowed to drive on the model of motorcycle that you have without breaking the terms of the warranty. Do not forget the dates because they may be critical for determining liability.

4. Check the quality of free mounting which is open to you: You can get mounting off the bike and on the bike. If you are working off the bike then the wheels are detached from the vehicle and taken to the garage to be mounted. On the other hand you may prefer mounting on the bike where they handle everything and you only get the motorcycle when it is ready for the road.

5. The designs tend to be fitted to a specific model: The market is full of models which are specifically linked to specific brands. A case in point is the Dunlop K491 which was meant for touring bikes including the Honda GL1500. In addition Avon created the Venom X as a possible alternative.

The use of motorcycle tires is dependent upon the brand that manufactured them as well as the terrain. You need to find products that are covered by warranties. Likewise you need to replace or repair them after a certain level of mileage.

Further information can be obtained from here: Motorcycle Tires, Motorcycle Race Tires

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Building Your Knowledge About Motorcycle Racing Tires

You will notice then when you attempt to buy new motorcycles, the patterns and requirements will be markedly different from anything that you have ever seen. The use of jargon language is intimidating for the people that are not experienced within the industry. The wealth of information from the internet can end up confusing you if you do not set the priorities correctly. Do not throw good money after bad if you realize that you are out of your depth. Instead you need to work backwards and consider the main reasons why you need to select a particular brand or model.

1. Do not treat motorcycles as a side issue: The racing tires have an advantage in as much as you are forced to confront their basic requirements. The assumption is that you will be looking for a competitive advantage and will therefore take your time during the selection process. Failure to make the right choices might mean that you are the victim of a very serious accident. Most professionals understand the need to have a systematic approach to any product or accessory that they are buying.

2. Knowing when to change your tires: First of all you have to understand that a visual test may not be enough. You have to get the mechanic to test the tire under the professional conditions that are standardized within the industry. Using commonsense might sound applicable but in fact this is not a scientific method. In all likelihood you are going to get inaccurate results from your experimentation.

3. The signs that the bicycle needs a check: If you find that your back hurts after some riding then probably the tires are to blame. Around the corners you may begin to feel as if the motorcycle is loose. This is yet another indicator that you have to take action. There are in-built wear indicators which are of benefit. The standard reading should be no more than 1/32 of an inch of 0.8 millimeters. Check the groove depth to ensure that it is not abnormally low.

4. The penny test: Perhaps one of the oldest tricks in the book is to use a penny. A poor tread will make it easy for foreign objects such as pins to penetrate the tire. You need to stick a penny in the grove. If the face is too high then you should get a new tire. Where the bust is exposed then you should make the replacement as a matter of urgency.

When you acquire the relevant knowledge that relates to car tires then you will be in a position to protect the bike from damage. It will also mean that you save time since you are not forced to run around looking for solutions.

Further information can be obtained from here: Motorcycle Tires, Motorcycle Race Tires

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