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The 6 Most Important Annual Motorcycle Maintenance Updates

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Contributed post for our North American readers

A motorcycle is an intricate machine composed of many parts. These should all be checked on a regular basis. Just like if you owned a car and the windshield was cracked, you would take it to
an auto glass shop such as www.richmondhillautoglass.ca, a motorcycle also needs routine maintenance. It helps to detect and fix any small issues that can balloon into major problems.

Here, the goal is to narrow it down to the most important items in need of annual maintenance.

Let’s jump into the most important annual motorcycle maintenance updates.

Tired Tires

An under-inflated tire can easily lead to a blow-out, which can become a major issue on a highway ride. Definitely check on tire inflation regularly to ensure they are balanced just right.

This can be done with a tire gauge and visual inspections. Over time, you’ll learn how to instinctively know if the tire is at a good pressure point.

Tires should also be replaced when the tread wears down. If the tread depth is around 1-2 millimeters, it is replacement time. A motorcycle isn’t worth much without a good set of tires,
so don’t skimp out when replacing them.

Break for the Brakes

Over time, brake fluid becomes less effective and therefore more dangerous on a ride. Brake fluid should typically be replaced every one or two years to ensure the best performance.

Motorcycles typically have two reservoirs for brake fluid. One is near the front on the handlebars and another in the back. Both need to be checked annually.

Additionally, brake pads need to be checked for replacement. If they are thin, they might be due for replacement. If brake pads wear down to the metal, the brake disc will lead to an expensive replacement. This is easily avoided by checking brake pad thickness regularly.

Check the Chain (and Sprockets, Shaft Drives, and Belts)

The combination of chains, sprockets, shaft drives, and belts are essential to the function of the motorcycle. Poor maintenance of these parts will lead to expensive repairs and replacements down the road.
Chains: Chains on the motorcycle need to be constantly lubricated. Experts suggest spraying it with a chain spray whenever you refuel or at the end of the ride. If you do it after each ride, the chain will still be warm, and the oil will be able to soak in and get all of the chain covered. Spray liberally where the chain touches the sprockets. Be careful not to dirty the rear wheel and rim while spraying. A way to avoid that is to put newspaper between the chain and tire before spraying. Allow the oil to soak in for five minutes or so before removing excess oil.
Shaft Drives: This piece requires a little less maintenance, but still deserves attention. Replace the shaft drive oil whenever it is time for an oil change. This will prolong the life of the shaft drive and the bike overall.

Belt Drives: Again, another piece requiring little maintenance. Check and adjust the belt tension anytime the oil is being changed. The belt should always be cleaned for the health of the bike.

Fill the Fuel

This doesn’t just mean to gas up the bike for the obvious purpose of getting the bike to go. Fuel maintenance requires replacing the fuel filter every two years and checking for clogs annually. Fuel filters can be easily damaged by weather, and if it is, should be replaced immediately. If the bike, and therefore the gas, sits for a long time, it should be replaced. Running on gas older than 6 months can lead to damage to the bike. If the bike is sitting for an extended period of time, turn the fuel tap off. This will help prevent fuel from leaking and flooding the carbs or engine.

Always Check the Oil

Oil and oil filter changes will keep your bike healthy and running for a long time. Changing the oil is a great time to check a lot of the other maintenance issues listed here. The oil level shouldbe kept at a high or max level as much as possible. A low oil level can be damaging for the bike.

Battery for life

Just like a car, the battery can lead to breakdowns and a stranded rider. The location of the battery on a motorcycle means it is often overlooked, but it is no less important for maintenance. Batteries need monthly maintenance. It should always be kept at 100% and recharged as needed.

Some tips for maintaining the battery include:

  • Checking the electrolyte level
  • Topping up in a well-ventilated area with deionized or distilled water while wearing gloves and protective glasses
  • Keeping the battery top free of grime
  • Checking all cables, case, and clamps for damage or any loose connections
  • Cleaning terminals and connectors
  • Looking inside for a build-up of sediment, sulfation, or mossing
  • Keeping the exhaust tube free from clogs and kinks
  • Replacing caps
  • Testing the battery with a hydrometer or voltmeter
  • Checking all of this monthly to extend the life of the bike

The goal of a motorcycle owner is to keep the ride running smoothly and safely for as long as possible. Following these maintenance tips will help extend the longevity of the bike and make sure you are safe while doing it.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Kawasaki Updates Ninja H2 Models for 2019

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2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE+
2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE+

Kawasaki blew minds and went on to set records when it released the supercharged 200-horsepower Ninja H2 and 300-horsepower, racetrack-and-experts-only Ninja H2R in 2015. From its 998cc in-line four-cylinder engine force-fed by a 130,000rpm supercharger to its trellis frame, downforce-generating bodywork, Mirror Coated Black paint and Kawasaki River Mark insignia, the Ninja H2 was and continues to be a very special motorcycle.

Read our 2015 Kawasaki Ninja H2 first look review

Since the original models were introduced a few years ago, the Ninja H2 lineup has expanded and it has been updated for 2019. Highlights include the following:

2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2 and Ninja H2 Carbon

2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2 Carbon
2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2 Carbon
  • More powerful supercharged, 998cc in-line four thanks to a new air filter, revised intake chamber and new sparkplugs
  • New Brembo Stylema Monobloc front brake calipers
  • New Bridgestone Battlax RS11 sport tires
  • New TFT full-color instrument display with four selectable modes
  • New smartphone connectivity with Kawasaki’s Rideology the App
  • New all-LED lighting
  • New Highly Durable Paint with “self repairing” top coat on high-touch areas
  • Ninja H2 is available in Mirror Coated Spark Black and MSRP is $29,000
  • Ninja H2 Carbon, which features a carbon fiber upper cowl, is available in Mirror Coated Matte Spark Black/Candy Flat Blazed Green and MSRP is $32,500

2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE+

2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE+
2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE+ with accessory KQR 28L Hard Saddlebags
    • New Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension, with a Showa 43mm upside-down cartridge fork and a Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) lite shock
    • New integrated riding modes (Sport, Road, Rain, Manual)
    • New Brembo Stylema Monobloc front brake calipers
    • New smartphone connectivity with Kawasaki’s Rideology the App
    • New Highly Durable Paint with “self repairing” top coat on high-touch areas
    • Ninja H2 SX SE+ is available in Metallic Graphite Gray/ Metallic Diablo Black/Emerald Blazed Green and MSRP is $25,000

Read our 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE road test review

2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2R

2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2R
2019 Kawasaki Ninja H2R
      • New Brembo Stylema Monobloc front calipers
      • Redesigned supercharged emblem
      • New Highly Durable Paint with “self repairing” top coat on high-touch areas
      • Ninja H2R is available in Mirror Coated Matte Spark Black and MSRP is $55,000

Check out Rider’s Guide to New/Updated Street Motorcycles for 2019

Source: RiderMagazine.com

News

Fusion M1 hybrid has rotary engine

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No, it’s not the 1970s again — Furion Motorcycles of France plans to resurrect the Wankel rotary engine for their hybrid M1 motorcycle that also has an electric motor.

Rotary engines were big news in the 1970s, most notably in the Mazda RX-8.

There were also many motorcycles with rotary engines. Norton had several models. Others included the Hercules/DKW W-2000, Yamaha RZ201, Kawasaki X99 RCE, Van Veen OCR1000 and Suzuki RE5.

Hercules Wankel rotary engine
Hercules Wankel

Wankel rotary engines seemed a stroke of genius at the time with the cylinders rotating around the stationary camshaft. They were light and compact with high power and smooth revving.

But they had poor fuel economy and high emissions. Furion has now been resolved that by using a back-up electric motor.

Furion M1 Hybrid

Furion Motorcycles’ hybrid M1 sportsbike is so far only CAD images on a computer screen.

However, they say they will power it with a 654cc Wankel rotary engine, an electric motor and five lithium-ion batteries.

The rotary produces 93kW of power (125hp) at 9000rpm and 105Nm of torque at 6000rpm, while the bike weighs 209kg.

An electric motor adds 41kW (55hp) and 100Nm for a total of 134kW (180hp) and 205Nm.

Despite all that power, they claim range of 400km on just 16 litres of fuel.

Furion M1 sits in a tubular trellis frame on 43mm upside-down forks and rear monoshock with 310mm dual disc brakes and six-speed transmission.

Furion M1 Hybrid SportBike with Wankel rotary engine
Instruments

Hybrid future

Furion is not the only company looking at hybrid technology for the future.

Honda is making hybrid scooters, Yamaha is helping to develop hybrid engines for cars, Indian motorcycle company TVS is planning a hybrid motorcycle and the American Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has developed a stealth off-road motorcycle powered by a petrol engine and an electric motor.

Honda PCX Hybrid scooter battery swap rotary
Honda hybrid and electric PCX scooters

Furion M1 tech specsFurion M1 Hybrid SportBike with Wankel rotary engine

  • Dual-rotor + electric engine 40kw
  • Capacity : 2 × 327 (654cc)
  • Power: 93kW/125hp @ 9000rpm + 41kW/55hp (electric)
  • Total Power: 134kW (180hp)
  • Torque: 105Nm @ 6000rpm + 100Nm (electric)
  • Total Torque: 205Nm
  • Compression: 10.1: 1
  • Mileage: 4L/100km
  • Length: 2095mm
  • Seat: 810mm
  • Clearance: 140mm
  • Wheelbase: 1435mm
  • Wet weight: 209kg
  • Fuel capacity: 16litres
  • Tyres: 120/70/17; 190/50/17
  • Frame: Tubular trellis frame, motor carrier
  • Suspension: USD 43mm forks (adjustable rebound, compression and pre-load); Monoshock horizontal gas type back-link (adjustable pre-load, and rebound)
  • Brakes: Dual 310mm petal discs, 4-piston radial calipers; 250mm petal disk, single-piston caliper transmission
  • Final drive: Chain
  • Clutch: Multi-disc in oil bath
  • Transmission: 6-speed

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

News

Wild nostalgia version of BMW R nineT

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Would you believe this wild nostalgia custom motorcycle started life as the BMW R nineT and that you can buy actually buy one?

The R nineT is the Bavarian company’s most customisable production bike, but this Nmoto Nostalgia machine has to be the wildest custom version yet.

The Florida custom motorcycle company plans to sell the handmade custom bike for $US49,500 (about $A67,700) on a limited-run basis.

That compares with the standard production R nineT which sells in the States for $US12,995 and $22,49 in Australia.

Nmoto say it will take up to six months to make each Nostalgia to meet customers’ exact specifications.

Inspired Nostalgia

It is inspired by the legendary “unicorn” BMW R7 – the 1934 one-off prototype considered by many to be the Mona Lisa of motorcycles.

BMW R7 nostalgia
BMW R7

Nmoto founder Alexander Niznik says the Nostalgia consists of more than 96 handcrafted parts.

“It offers all the style of the original vintage model with all the peace-of-mind of the new model,” says .

Nmoto Nostalgia BMW R nineT
BMW R nineT and Nmoto Nostalgia

“It’s the perfect combination that makes a statement unlike anything else on the road.”

While it is based on the R Nine T with a 1170cc boxer engine with 81kW of power (110hp) and 86Nm of torque, Nmoto claim it is lighter and will top out at 225km/h.

Peak power and torque remain the same and they don’t say what they have done to make it 25km/h faster than the production model.Nmoto Nostalgia BMW R nineT

However, the power-to-weight ratio will be improved as it now weighs 205kg instead of 220kg. 

Even though it looks like it came from pre-WWII Bavaria, the Nmoto Nostalgia has a modern six-speed gearbox, traction control, anti-lock braking system and keyless ignition.Nmoto Nostalgia BMW R nineT

Unlike the original, it also features front and rear suspension!

The modern ignition lock and speedometer have been cleverly incorporated into the headlamp housing for that true nostalgia effect. 

It comes in 11 colour combinations, with customisation options that include adjustable steering, seat trim finish, luggage box and passenger seat.Nmoto Nostalgia BMW R nineT

 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

Salvador chosen to race in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup

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Since 2017, Dorna and Red Bull have run a talent promotion program to support a rider from the European Talent Cup to move into the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup the following season. Last year it was Danish rider Simon Jespersen, and in 2018 the rider chosen to become a Rookie is Spaniard David Salvador.

Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here

News

Three Effective Ways to Reduce Your Life Insurance Premium

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Contributed article

If you are single with no direct dependents such as children or other close relatives, then it won’t be as beneficial to get life insurance. But if you have a partner and children, then a life insurance policy is a good way to extend your love and care for them, at least financially, even after you’re gone.

We understand that getting life insurance is going to be an extra cost for you. A sizeable part of your monthly income will have to be given up to pay for the policy. But it doesn’t really have to be this way. There are things that you can do to lower your premium, and we will discuss some of them here.

Quit smoking

Paying a cheaper monthly premium for your life insurance policy is going to be beneficial in a lot of ways. For one, it will put you in a better position to purchase other insurance such as car insurance.

One sure way to lower the amount that you have to pay as premium is to stop smoking. According to a summary created by the US Department of Health and Human Services in 2014, smoking is the cause of at least 400,000 premature deaths in the country each year. It’s not difficult to see why this is so; it has been known that cigarette smoke contains at least 250 harmful chemicals, 69 of which have been linked to cancer.

You see, an insurance premium rises when the company senses by looking at your medical records that you are exposing yourself to situations that unwittingly increase the chances of you dying prematurely and them paying out to your beneficiary even before you’ve paid them a considerable amount of cash.

Lose weight

Being overweight – or worse, obese – does not only slow you down and make moving around a chore, it also predisposes you to different types of cancers. In overweight women who have been through menopause, for example, breast cancer is going to be their number 1 enemy. 

Excess fat in the body also makes it difficult for your body to resist the development of other chronic and probably fatal illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Given this knowledge, it is only normal for the insurer to anticipate your death quite early, and an increased premium is their way to also protect their business. If you strive for and actually achieve a certain level of fitness right before you apply for life insurance, the probability is high that your premium will be at its minimum.

Avoid traffic violations

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that more than 37,000 lives were lost in traffic mishaps in 2016. Many of the recorded accidents are caused by totally preventable factors such as intoxication and distracted driving. If you’ve been apprehended for drunk driving and texting while driving, for example, you are basically telling the insurer that you will soon join NHTSA’s statistics.

More than ensuring your safety on the road, following traffic rules enforced by the city government of Des Moines also helps pay less for your life and car insurance. If you’re involved in an accident, it can become really tricky to get your benefits if you don’t get the help of Des Moines auto insurance claims lawyers. You see, some insurance companies are hesitant to give payouts on car damage that is brought about by potentially ambiguous causes.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

News

Harley-Davidson’s First Electric Motorcycle Coming

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Contributed post

Harley-Davidson recently unveiled its first ever electric motorcycle during the EICMA (Esposizione Internazionale Ciclo Motociclo e Accessori) or otherwise known as the Milan Motorcycle Show. This event was held from November 8 to November 11 and it was here where motorcycle manufacturers, whether they be giants in the industry or ambitious startups, show off their best and upcoming electric motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, and mopeds.

However, like anyone who knows how to play the game well, Harley-Davidson did not show their cards during the event. Despite showing off their upcoming electric motorcycle, they kept mum about important specs such as the motorcycle’s effective range, speed, and charging rate.

What Was Its Prototype?

Harley Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle
Harley Davidson LiveWire prototype

The electric motorcycle was based on a prototype codenamed “LiveWire”, which was first put on public display in June 2014. The electric motorcycle was then commented on by a Fox Sports reporter as being “the most radical departure in the 111-year history of the brand.”

And it was rightfully said to be so, as the general public have always known Harley-Davidson for its loud, heavy and, of course, expensive motorcycles. The LiveWire prototype looks far sportier and more futuristic than any other Harley-Davidson motorcycle before it and this is a valiant attempt at attracting a wider customer base.

What Exactly Is The New Harley-Davidson Electric Motorcycle?

Electric Harley-Davidson LiveWire leads parade smart desert charging
LiveWire unveiled in Milwaukee

The motorcycle company’s first ever electric motorcycle is going to retain its prototype’s codename, but that’s about where the similarities end. The final retail product looks much more refined than its prototype (which was already in itself a futuristic-looking motorcycle relative to most Harleys).

While Harley-Davidson have yet to reveal the technical specifications of LiveWire, we can at least get a point of reference from the prototype. The LiveWire prototype could accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than four seconds. As far as effective range goes, it was capable of traveling up to around 55 miles. Though, it’s important to note that this result is under the presumption that the electric motorcycle is in “economy mode”.

What Makes This Electric Bike A Harley?

Despite the overhauled aesthetics and functional design, the LiveWire still stays true to tradition where it truly matters most. And no, I’m not talking about the hefty price tag that comes with every Harley bike. There isn’t even an official price for this electric motorcycle.

I’m referring to the loudness of the motorcycle. Because, well, if it isn’t loud and shiny, it’s probably not a Harley. The LiveWire is built uniquely so that its drivetrain creates a whirring sound, something that sounds like a jet turbine.

And that, my friends, is where the LiveWire stays true to Harley-Davidson tradition.

LiveWire is being released next year around the world will arrive in Australia and New Zealand in late 2020.

As you can already tell, the market is shifting. Newer models are being built with the environment in mind. And that’s a good thing. The one thing, however, that will never change, is the fact that no matter how fancy your vehicle gets, the responsibility that comes with owning and riding a vehicle will never be replaced.

Always adhere to traffic rules. And even if you do, there are many cases where it might be someone else who causes an accident. Luckily, a seasoned motorcycle and car accident attorney is not difficult to find.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com