Archive for June 24th, 2009

Motorcycle Buying Tips

Wednesday, June 24th, 2009

Motorcycle Buying Tips
If you are anything like me, and for your sake, I hope you are not-when you want something, you don’t always take the time to think things through and get the best possible product For some reason this seems especially true when dealing with items that are very costly, which makes that instant gratification habit doubly worse Today I want to discuss some steps to take when purchasing a motorcycle . .Sure, it would be cool to buy the biggest baddest bike on the block, but you will be much better off if you can display a little patience, which in the long run could save you some trouble and lots of money . .Research . .First, you need to decide which bike is the best for you Figure out what you are going to use your motorcycle for-cruising on the road, taking on trails, going super fast, etc Talk to someone knowledgeable and do some research online Really try to narrow down your choices of the type of bike you want One of the most important starting points is-what can you afford to pay? It’s vital to remember that insuring a motorcycle can be costly, particularly if you are young . .More Research . .Getting the idea? Knowledge is power, and in this case, it’s the power to make a better decision There is nothing worse than running out to get a motorcycle only to find that it’s too much for you to handle, has too much upkeep, you can’t afford it, etc Look at the market What benefits are offered by each brand, and more importantly, which benefits work for you the best Find out all you can about the models you are interested in, visit online forums, read reviews, and by all means don’t be afraid to ask the dealer questions Make sure you get what you want-if the bike you want isn’t available, go somewhere else to find it, or wait until it becomes available Take it for a test ride, see how you feel while riding, is it easy for you to handle? Does it fit you? . .Go with Your Gut . .Finally, after going through the data gathering stages, narrowing down your choices, and taking the bike for a test ride, if you feel a little odd about the bike, if something doesn’t feel quite right, allow yourself some time to think about it before you make the commitment to buy Another bike will always come around, so you should never feel like you are being forced into anything . .The bottom line is make sure you get something that you want, and are happy with it will make the riding experience that much better .
Source: www.rsstnx.com

Motorcycle Leather Types and Quality
Most people think of leather as being cowhide and indeed, it is the most common Capable of expressing numerous textures and quality, cowhide is quite durable and suited to various uses A natural byproduct of the meat industry, cowhide is suitable for use in furniture, garments and accessories . .Thickness is a primary factor in how leather is used and for what purpose Thicker leathers are suitable to uses that require extra durability, such as in motorcycle leathers They not only offer superior protection but can also offer exceptional style This is typical in the case of jackets and chaps where you may need a second skin between you and the elements . .Fashion leather is often made from softer, more supple leathers that can be lambskin, pigskin, buckskin or goatskin Lambskin is known for being a very soft, luxurious leather often used in form fitting vests, skirts, pants and light jackets Pigskin has its own delicate textures and soft silky naps that make excellent shirts, sportswear and blazers . .When choosing leather, you may run into terms that can be confusing Here are some definitions . .Naked Leather is a term that refers to unblemished leather without scars or uneven grain in the garment . .Split grain refers to any leather that is not from the actual outside of the hide and is better known as suede It has better flexibility than top grain leather but is not as durable or as waterproof as top grain . .Full top grain is from the smooth top layer of the hide With more durability and stiffness than split grain, it better resists water and abrasions . .Leather adjusts to the temperature, which will keep you warm in winter and still cool in spring and fall When selecting garments for waterproofing, look for items constructed with as few seams as possible, since stitched seams become weaker as the materials degrade, inviting leaks . .There are four basic methods of waterproofing for leather; oil based, wax based, silicone based and water based Oil based compounds soften leather making it more pliable and more rip resistant . .Wax based water proofing tends to cut down on breathability However, this method is commonly applied to boots and can be quite effective, if reapplied regularly Be sure to buff off the excess as it can attract dirt and grime Wax is not recommended for application to jackets or vests since it cuts down on air transference when perspiring . .Silicone will stiffen leather when exposed to low temperatures and does not aid in conditioning the leather Silicone is recommended over wax for boots with a Gore-Tex liner, because it is more breathable . .Fluoropolymer is water based, comes in a spray can and has been rated the best by authorities on the subject Suitable for use on leathers that have been treated previously by a different method, it dries quickly, repels stains, and does not change the appearance of most leather However, it does not condition the leather and if concerned about possible staining, treat a small inconspicuous area first . .To see years of quality wear from leather, carefully choose an item made from the best thickness and type for its function .
Source: www.rsstnx.com