Single Cylinder

Just what the name says, this type has a single chamber with one piston. Used almost exclusively in off-road bikes, they produce loads of torque at lower rpm (revolutions per minute). Unfortunately, since there’s nothing to counter-balance the movement of the single piston, they also produce a lot of vibration. The sound produced is something only a motocross fan could love…..read full article at Single Cylinder Motorcycle Engines

Style, safety, comfort… all important factors when looking for just that right motorcycle jacket.

Though nostalgia for the past is a healthy trait, there are today a dozen different basic types - and hundreds of individual styles - to choose from. Look at a few. Jackets have come a long way since the days of James Dean when a fancy accessory was the zip-off fur collar.

Today, jackets come in all colors, materials, fits and have a variety of liners, pocket configurations and price ranges. Here are a few things to keep in mind when picking out the one just right for you.

Long before Brando or Dean straddled a hog, the Barbour International was adorning motorcyclists in the UK and around the world. Since 1936, these waxed cotton jackets have been worn by racers and casual weekend riders alike……read full article at Motorcycling - Choosing the Right Jacket

There are some things you just can’t do without.

A helmet. Riders tend to be an independent lot. They don’t like being told what to do. So, naturally, they resent the existence and enforcement of helmet laws.

Helmets can be uncomfortable and some think they look ridiculous.

But not even the government can be wrong all the time. And nothing is more uncomfortable than banging your head off the street. Besides, you’ll look even more ridiculous lying in the hospital with your head bandaged.

Buy one that fits. With the advance of materials science and helmet design, head gear has become an engineering marvel. Strong composite resin shells help protect the head, but keep you feeling and looking cool at the same time……read full article at Essential Motorbike Gear 

Maybe you’re old enough to remember Brando in a leather jacket and thought he looked cool sitting on a motorcycle.

Maybe you’ve seen moto-cross races on TV and said it had to be more fun than bungee jumping. Or, maybe you’ve envied your friends who took off on a two-week ride around the country on the open road.

However you got here, you’ve arrived. Motorcycling is making you hot to go.

But before you hop on the first tin can you can get your legs over and take off down the road, there are a few things you might want to know. If you want to enjoy the experience a second time, that is.
Riding a motorcycle isn’t like driving a car.

Think of the difference between flying a plane and piloting a helicopter. In a plane you keep the wings level and you’re good until landing.

Flying a helicopter requires continual adjustments to keep the chopper level and to avoid a spin. Something similar happens riding a motorcycle.

Balance, coordination, operating multiple levers while paying attention to everything around you at the same time - all necessary to keep you up and out of danger.

And insurance companies aren’t fond of you. You’ll need insurance separate from, or as an add-on to your car insurance. Helmet laws vary from state to state and insurance rates change in tandem…..read full article at Motorcycle for life