While Robert Pirsig's widely popular philosophical tome, "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance", was more about discovering the quality of life while taking a road trip on a motorcycle, Pirsig failed to note that there was zen in the actual building of the motorcycle itself. Whether you create a full chopper from the ground up with a custom kit, or simply add and replace parts on a stock bike, the satisfaction derived from the process of completing your road raring beauty may just reestablish what the quality of life is all about.
Custom bike kits offer full design personalization, even if all its parts come included in the kit. You can also use other parts and accessories acquired through other means; it's pretty much anything goes when building a custom bike from scratch. It's not as easy as the bike kit company will assure you, though; it's not a tub of Lego, after all.
Adding or replacing custom parts to a stock bike will be much easier than building one from scratch, although not as impressive to other bikers, and the resale value will obviously be much less. Still, either way, putting your own bike together is bound to be both pleasurable and challenging, and ultimately, zen.
You can't change the frame of your bike, which is why it is important to choose the best frame for you when buying your custom kit. What you can personalize instead is the appearance of your street fenders, gas tank, undertails and tire huggers. Some frames will only allow compatible street fenders and bodywork sets, but within each brand, different models are being developed and you can switch them around at will.
Another way to customize these basic parts is to have them painted in a design that fits your personality, and let the rest of your motorcycle accessories follow this style guide. There is also a wide range of decals and stickers to decorate your bike, with more innovative designs to choose from. While choosing, you should also look into protective stickers, such as tank and gas cap protectors, and traction pads which will not only enhance the look of your bike but keep its parts pretty.
Change the look of your bike by simpling replacing your handlebars or handlebar grips, mirrors, tires, wheels, exhaust, pedals, seats and luggage storage space. There are additional accessories for some of these parts; for instance, you can get caps for your mirrors or hard seat covers, to protect them while parking. Also choose a durable all-weather motorcycle cover to use to keep the elements at bay, even before you finish putting your bike together.
Once you complete your motorcycle, taking it out on the road is the next level of zen that you will experience. And then, perhaps a year or a few months later, you can start re-customizing your motorcycle all over again. You may find that working on your bike in the garage heightens the quality of life just as much as racing it on the highway.
Read the latest info on motorcycle accessories and apparel at: http://www.accessory-motorcycle.com
Accessory Motorcycle.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rita_Lambros-Segur
Friday, 29 January 2010
Wednesday, 27 January 2010
What Are The Hot Motorcycle Accessories And What Will They Do For You?
The most popular motorcycle accessories are exhausts, chrome rims and air cleaners, saddlebags and fenders. In terms of riding gear the most popular accessories include helmets, riding leathers, boots, and gloves.
Motorcycle accessories allow you to personalize your bike. The number of accessories are as endless as your imagination. There are now several companies that will take your design for a custom part (rim or air cleaner, etc.) and turn it into a custom piece for your bike. These services cost more, but you get a custom-made piece that is one of a kind.
Bike exhausts are one of the first things that most people change. There are a lot of manufacturers that produce quality exhausts. On-line the most requested exhausts are m4, dd, and cobra. These exhausts are all well-built and come in a variety of styles and finishes.
When selecting an exhaust for your bike you should consider performance as well as style. Reputable exhaust manufacturers will provide dyno sheets that show their pipe's improvement over stock through the rev band. The horsepower (and more importantly the torque) improvements will vary for every application.
Chroming pieces for your bike provide a great way to step up the looks. The chroming process is quite involved, so you don't want to try to save a few bucks if the finished product isn't up to snuff. It is more expensive to do a job twice instead of doing it right the first time.
Helmets are a personal choice. Some bikers like tiny skull caps and sunglasses for cruising while the sportbike crowd prefers full face helmets with chromed shields. It doesn't matter which type you prefer, it is important that you get a comfortable, lightweight helmet that provides protection and an unobstructed field of view. If you wear prescription glasses, make sure you have those on when trying a new helmet.
The choice of leathers and other riding accessories are more important for personal safety than any bike accessories. Teknic leathers are quite popular. These leathers offer high-end features that make them some of the best leathers available.
Gloves and boots are basic safety items that will protect you in a fall. Gloves that have padding in the palm and on top of your fingers offer the best protection. Look for boots that have a thick sole and cover your ankles.
The choice of motorcycle accessories allows all of us to customize our look. The important thing to consider when researching accessories is to try to get the best quality pieces that fit your needs and your budget.
Want to learn about the best deals on motorcycle accessories? Written by a husband-and-wife biker team—and Elena's the world's best bargain shopper on-line—this site provides not only one-stop shopping for motorcycle accessories, but also helpful information about everything motorcycle. http://www.UltimateMotorcycleSite.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_O'Gorman
Motorcycle accessories allow you to personalize your bike. The number of accessories are as endless as your imagination. There are now several companies that will take your design for a custom part (rim or air cleaner, etc.) and turn it into a custom piece for your bike. These services cost more, but you get a custom-made piece that is one of a kind.
Bike exhausts are one of the first things that most people change. There are a lot of manufacturers that produce quality exhausts. On-line the most requested exhausts are m4, dd, and cobra. These exhausts are all well-built and come in a variety of styles and finishes.
When selecting an exhaust for your bike you should consider performance as well as style. Reputable exhaust manufacturers will provide dyno sheets that show their pipe's improvement over stock through the rev band. The horsepower (and more importantly the torque) improvements will vary for every application.
Chroming pieces for your bike provide a great way to step up the looks. The chroming process is quite involved, so you don't want to try to save a few bucks if the finished product isn't up to snuff. It is more expensive to do a job twice instead of doing it right the first time.
Helmets are a personal choice. Some bikers like tiny skull caps and sunglasses for cruising while the sportbike crowd prefers full face helmets with chromed shields. It doesn't matter which type you prefer, it is important that you get a comfortable, lightweight helmet that provides protection and an unobstructed field of view. If you wear prescription glasses, make sure you have those on when trying a new helmet.
The choice of leathers and other riding accessories are more important for personal safety than any bike accessories. Teknic leathers are quite popular. These leathers offer high-end features that make them some of the best leathers available.
Gloves and boots are basic safety items that will protect you in a fall. Gloves that have padding in the palm and on top of your fingers offer the best protection. Look for boots that have a thick sole and cover your ankles.
The choice of motorcycle accessories allows all of us to customize our look. The important thing to consider when researching accessories is to try to get the best quality pieces that fit your needs and your budget.
Want to learn about the best deals on motorcycle accessories? Written by a husband-and-wife biker team—and Elena's the world's best bargain shopper on-line—this site provides not only one-stop shopping for motorcycle accessories, but also helpful information about everything motorcycle. http://www.UltimateMotorcycleSite.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_O'Gorman
Tuesday, 26 January 2010
Monday, 25 January 2010
Sunday, 24 January 2010
A Guide to the Annual Motor Cycle Show
Beginning on the 28th of November, the annual Motor Cycle Show will continue till the 7th of December 2008 and is sure to be an exciting event for all motorcycle and scooter enthusiasts. The show is to feature a large collection of the latest motorcycle models and motor services from various exhibitors across the globe.
The show is a launching pad for upcoming 2009 models which will be displayed at the exhibition venue for the first time in the UK. The Annual Motor Cycle Show is a prestigious event and has previously attracted visitors in huge numbers, gathering a total of 149,000 guests last year.
Since the show is to be held at the reputed venue, at NEC Birmingham, visitors should be free of all possible hassles related to travel and accommodation. The venue is easily accessible because of its central location and is very close to the Birmingham International Station, thereby working in favour of the show and attracting thousands of international visitors. Even the UK residents who reside away from Birmingham will have easy access to the show as there are many rail options including several direct links from major cities.
For those who prefer travelling by road, NEC has a spacious car parking facility. In terms of accommodation, Birmingham has much to offer visitors in close proximity to the exhibition venue at NEC with several cosy bed and breakfasts, guest houses and hotels to suit every budget.
The show has also made arrangements for those in need of special assistance inside the venue and has provided guests with wheelchairs for hire, induction loop audio systems for those with hearing impairments, medical facilities for general purposes as well as an emergency medical facility which can be accessed through security and staff personnel or through internal telephones located inside the venue. The venue also has unisex wheelchair accessible restrooms.
The highlight of the Show is undoubtedly the iconic motorcycle brand MV Agusta which will showcase its best motorcycles including the MV Agusta F4 which is said to be the most powerful motorcycle in the world. Also present will be the MV Agusta importer, Moto GB which will display brands like Benelli, Cagiva and Keeway scooters.
The show timings are 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and while the preview tickets are priced at £28.00 for adults and £5.00 for children, tickets for other days are available at £15.00. Inclusive of all facets of the two-wheel business, the show displays mopeds, scooters, motorcycles, motorcycle accessories, clothing, components and more. A feature sure to interest visitors is that the exhibition allows visitors to test ride a range of bikes in the Mini Moto Arena, BSM training centre or the bike ride out areas.
Catherine writes about Exhibition Services & Stands and Exhibitions & Conference News.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Catherine_Gliddon
The show is a launching pad for upcoming 2009 models which will be displayed at the exhibition venue for the first time in the UK. The Annual Motor Cycle Show is a prestigious event and has previously attracted visitors in huge numbers, gathering a total of 149,000 guests last year.
Since the show is to be held at the reputed venue, at NEC Birmingham, visitors should be free of all possible hassles related to travel and accommodation. The venue is easily accessible because of its central location and is very close to the Birmingham International Station, thereby working in favour of the show and attracting thousands of international visitors. Even the UK residents who reside away from Birmingham will have easy access to the show as there are many rail options including several direct links from major cities.
For those who prefer travelling by road, NEC has a spacious car parking facility. In terms of accommodation, Birmingham has much to offer visitors in close proximity to the exhibition venue at NEC with several cosy bed and breakfasts, guest houses and hotels to suit every budget.
The show has also made arrangements for those in need of special assistance inside the venue and has provided guests with wheelchairs for hire, induction loop audio systems for those with hearing impairments, medical facilities for general purposes as well as an emergency medical facility which can be accessed through security and staff personnel or through internal telephones located inside the venue. The venue also has unisex wheelchair accessible restrooms.
The highlight of the Show is undoubtedly the iconic motorcycle brand MV Agusta which will showcase its best motorcycles including the MV Agusta F4 which is said to be the most powerful motorcycle in the world. Also present will be the MV Agusta importer, Moto GB which will display brands like Benelli, Cagiva and Keeway scooters.
The show timings are 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and while the preview tickets are priced at £28.00 for adults and £5.00 for children, tickets for other days are available at £15.00. Inclusive of all facets of the two-wheel business, the show displays mopeds, scooters, motorcycles, motorcycle accessories, clothing, components and more. A feature sure to interest visitors is that the exhibition allows visitors to test ride a range of bikes in the Mini Moto Arena, BSM training centre or the bike ride out areas.
Catherine writes about Exhibition Services & Stands and Exhibitions & Conference News.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Catherine_Gliddon
Saturday, 23 January 2010
Friday, 22 January 2010
Motorcycle Accessories for Under 100 Dollars - Five Rider Favorites
If you're gift shopping for your favorite motorcycle rider, it can be easy to overspend your budget. Many of the most popular accessories like a riding jacket or exhaust system can easily cost several hundred dollars. And with many high-end parts, there may be additional time and expense for the installation.
But not all popular bike accessories cost a fortune. With a little help, you can find plenty of motorcycle accessories for under a hundred dollars that are sure to please the biker in your life. So if you have a motorcycle fan on your shopping list, here are five gift ideas that they’re sure to like but won’t land you in the poor house.
1. Tool bags
A smaller alternative to a full set of motorcycle saddlebags, good-quality tool bags are available for under $50. Having a few essential tools on the road can be a real lifesaver for a rider. Most tool bags mount to the front forks or sissy bars with hook and loop straps that most manufacturers include with purchase. Like full-sized saddlebags, the best-value tool bags are made of synthetic leather.
Look for tool bags that are designed with reinforced plastic so they maintain their shape over the long haul. And help keep valuables secure by looking for tool bags that include lockable buckles – many of the $50 models I’ve reviewed are the lockable variety.
2. Gas Tank Chaps/Bibs
A great way to complement the look of a new set of saddlebags, tanks chaps quickly add a custom look to a bike. Tank chaps fit under the gas cap or tank speedometer and rear tank mounting hardware. Almost all models have a scratch-resistant backing that will not harm a bike’s paint job.
Tanks chaps are available in genuine or synthetic leather, are a snap to install and are custom fit for each bike’s tank shape. Many also include a small storage pouch for a phone, wallet or keys. Most tank chaps are typically priced between $50 and $100.
3. Custom Brake & Clutch Levers
Aftermarket bike levers gives you a real bang for your buck. For around $20, you can get a new pair of custom chrome or alloy finish levers designed to fit each model bike. In addition to adding a custom look, custom levers are much more comfortable than stock levers. The wider design is easier on the fingers, especially when your rider’s caught in stop and go traffic.
For about the cost of a takeout dinner, you really can’t go wrong with a new pair of aftermarket levers.
4. Chrome Side Covers
Add a healthy dose of chrome to a motorcycle without needing a single wrench. Chrome side covers look great and replace the standard painted covers in a snap. The only catch is the covers are one of the more expensive accessories on our list – with prices starting at $95.
Side covers are designed specifically for each make and model bike and are typically sold in pairs. A great add-on if you’re looking for a custom part that offers your rider some instant gratification.
5. Saddlebags
Because they are so handy, saddlebags are the first accessory I get for a new bike. Saddlebags are essential for the long rides but also great for quick trips to the store. Even the smallest saddlebags can save a rider from cramming all of his or her stuff uncomfortably into pants pockets or riding jacket.
Many folks don’t realize you can get decent saddlebags for as little as $50. Smaller, throw-over saddlebags that hang from the seat or rear fender and do not require support brackets. I recommend synthetic materials over leather as they are more weather resistant and are typically less expensive than genuine leather models.
Jim Thompson is an avid motorcycle enthusiast with over twenty-eight years of riding experience. Jim manages http://performance-motorcycle-parts.com a no-nonsense resource for motorcycle fans that provides free motorcycle accessory buying tips, in-depth motorcycle dealer reviews and veteran motorcycle buying secrets.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Thompson
But not all popular bike accessories cost a fortune. With a little help, you can find plenty of motorcycle accessories for under a hundred dollars that are sure to please the biker in your life. So if you have a motorcycle fan on your shopping list, here are five gift ideas that they’re sure to like but won’t land you in the poor house.
1. Tool bags
A smaller alternative to a full set of motorcycle saddlebags, good-quality tool bags are available for under $50. Having a few essential tools on the road can be a real lifesaver for a rider. Most tool bags mount to the front forks or sissy bars with hook and loop straps that most manufacturers include with purchase. Like full-sized saddlebags, the best-value tool bags are made of synthetic leather.
Look for tool bags that are designed with reinforced plastic so they maintain their shape over the long haul. And help keep valuables secure by looking for tool bags that include lockable buckles – many of the $50 models I’ve reviewed are the lockable variety.
2. Gas Tank Chaps/Bibs
A great way to complement the look of a new set of saddlebags, tanks chaps quickly add a custom look to a bike. Tank chaps fit under the gas cap or tank speedometer and rear tank mounting hardware. Almost all models have a scratch-resistant backing that will not harm a bike’s paint job.
Tanks chaps are available in genuine or synthetic leather, are a snap to install and are custom fit for each bike’s tank shape. Many also include a small storage pouch for a phone, wallet or keys. Most tank chaps are typically priced between $50 and $100.
3. Custom Brake & Clutch Levers
Aftermarket bike levers gives you a real bang for your buck. For around $20, you can get a new pair of custom chrome or alloy finish levers designed to fit each model bike. In addition to adding a custom look, custom levers are much more comfortable than stock levers. The wider design is easier on the fingers, especially when your rider’s caught in stop and go traffic.
For about the cost of a takeout dinner, you really can’t go wrong with a new pair of aftermarket levers.
4. Chrome Side Covers
Add a healthy dose of chrome to a motorcycle without needing a single wrench. Chrome side covers look great and replace the standard painted covers in a snap. The only catch is the covers are one of the more expensive accessories on our list – with prices starting at $95.
Side covers are designed specifically for each make and model bike and are typically sold in pairs. A great add-on if you’re looking for a custom part that offers your rider some instant gratification.
5. Saddlebags
Because they are so handy, saddlebags are the first accessory I get for a new bike. Saddlebags are essential for the long rides but also great for quick trips to the store. Even the smallest saddlebags can save a rider from cramming all of his or her stuff uncomfortably into pants pockets or riding jacket.
Many folks don’t realize you can get decent saddlebags for as little as $50. Smaller, throw-over saddlebags that hang from the seat or rear fender and do not require support brackets. I recommend synthetic materials over leather as they are more weather resistant and are typically less expensive than genuine leather models.
Jim Thompson is an avid motorcycle enthusiast with over twenty-eight years of riding experience. Jim manages http://performance-motorcycle-parts.com a no-nonsense resource for motorcycle fans that provides free motorcycle accessory buying tips, in-depth motorcycle dealer reviews and veteran motorcycle buying secrets.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Thompson
Thursday, 21 January 2010
Motorcycle Accessories Go Beyond Basics
Twenty years ago, the standard accessories for a motor bike where a helmet and goggles. These days there are a lot more accessories available and standard equipment has been significantly upgraded, mainly due to safety concerns. Today accessories are not just a helmet and a pair of goggles, today's accessories includes things like specialized apparel in addition to old style accessories.
Several generations of road rash and burn has given rise to a variety of accessories designed to eliminate such issues. Things like leather pants, and leather jackets as well as long heavy pants like jeans to protect skin. Boots are common as well since they work to protect ankles, shins and feet.
Helmets have been upgraded as well to consist of harder materials, padding to help provide the maximum amount of protection as well as face guards, ventilation systems and anti glare coatings in order to provide maximum visibility at the same time they provide the maximum amount of protection for the head and neck areas.
No matter what type or style of bike you ride there is sure to be a set of accessories that not only fit the style of your bike but your own personal style as well. It does not matter what type of accessory you are looking for or even if you mix and match.
Accessories are not just better able to protect you from an accident; they are also designed to be able to protect you better from the elements. Riding any style of motorbike leaves you at the mercy of rain, snow and wind not to mention ice, sleet, hail and debris. Accessories like gloves, boots, pants, jackets and helmets are designed not just to protect you when you hit the pavement but also protect you from the elements. This ensures you have the best opportunity to enjoy a safe and pleasant ride no matter what the weather.
Accessories do not just have to be for those that own a motorbike there are a wide range of accessories that can be used to show off your love of motorbikes whether you actually own one. All of the major brands carry a number of products to show off your love of motorbikes. These include brand tee shirts, jackets and other apparel as well as sportswear, glasses, mugs, license plates and bumper stickers.
Motorbikes are full of horsepower and action and there are hundreds of thousands of people who love hopping on a bike throwing on a helmet, many come with built in communication systems to allow conversations with others on your bike or in your group and heading out on the road.
One thing is for sure though, not matter the style, the age, or the brand of motorbike there are a number of specially designed accessories that will fit into the lifestyle of your bike and the lifestyle that is completely you. Take a look at your local motorbike shop or online to browse through the amazing selection of styles and choices that are available compared to the styles and choices available twenty years ago.
Read the latest info on motorcycle accessories and apparel at: http://www.accessory-motorcycle.com - Accessory Motorcycle.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rita_Lambros-Segur
Several generations of road rash and burn has given rise to a variety of accessories designed to eliminate such issues. Things like leather pants, and leather jackets as well as long heavy pants like jeans to protect skin. Boots are common as well since they work to protect ankles, shins and feet.
Helmets have been upgraded as well to consist of harder materials, padding to help provide the maximum amount of protection as well as face guards, ventilation systems and anti glare coatings in order to provide maximum visibility at the same time they provide the maximum amount of protection for the head and neck areas.
No matter what type or style of bike you ride there is sure to be a set of accessories that not only fit the style of your bike but your own personal style as well. It does not matter what type of accessory you are looking for or even if you mix and match.
Accessories are not just better able to protect you from an accident; they are also designed to be able to protect you better from the elements. Riding any style of motorbike leaves you at the mercy of rain, snow and wind not to mention ice, sleet, hail and debris. Accessories like gloves, boots, pants, jackets and helmets are designed not just to protect you when you hit the pavement but also protect you from the elements. This ensures you have the best opportunity to enjoy a safe and pleasant ride no matter what the weather.
Accessories do not just have to be for those that own a motorbike there are a wide range of accessories that can be used to show off your love of motorbikes whether you actually own one. All of the major brands carry a number of products to show off your love of motorbikes. These include brand tee shirts, jackets and other apparel as well as sportswear, glasses, mugs, license plates and bumper stickers.
Motorbikes are full of horsepower and action and there are hundreds of thousands of people who love hopping on a bike throwing on a helmet, many come with built in communication systems to allow conversations with others on your bike or in your group and heading out on the road.
One thing is for sure though, not matter the style, the age, or the brand of motorbike there are a number of specially designed accessories that will fit into the lifestyle of your bike and the lifestyle that is completely you. Take a look at your local motorbike shop or online to browse through the amazing selection of styles and choices that are available compared to the styles and choices available twenty years ago.
Read the latest info on motorcycle accessories and apparel at: http://www.accessory-motorcycle.com - Accessory Motorcycle.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rita_Lambros-Segur
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