February 24th, 2010 by engineering magazines
Many people love the freedom of riding a motorcycle as well as the economical value it offers, especially now with fuel costs at an all time high. However, some people just aren’t comfortable operating a motorcycle. A great alternative is to choose an electric scooter. They are also very economically as well as easy to operate. This is a great option for riding around town. I know many parents who compromise purchasing their teenager a scooter rather than an actual motorcycle. Scooters also cost less than a motorcycle.
Safety is still a necessity while operating an electric scooter. It is important that you wear a helmet as well as long sleeved shirts and pants to prevent road rash. You also need to follow the rules of the road. Too many people have the misconception that a scooter can be operated like a bicycle rather than a motor vehicle on the road. In many states you have to obtain a motorcycle license to legally operate one on the street. Children must be the legal age to drive one as determined by their state regulations.
Electric scooters are frequently referred to as mopeds as well. They are very environmentally friendly so you don’t have to worry about pollution issues. Many of the features on these scooters are similar to those of a motorcycle including the seat, brakes, tires, and turn signals. While scooters are definitely easier to learn to ride, they won’t offer you the same speed as a motorcycle. Don’t expect to get on one and take off like the wind. You also won’t want to ride them on the highway or interstate as they just aren’t designed for that type of speed or travel.
Depending on the type of electric scooter you purchase, you can anticipate spending from $200 to $1,000. The prices are very reasonable, so that your time finding one that fits you perfectly. There are many styles and colors available from a variety of manufacturers. Many women love operating a scooter as opposed to a motorcycle because of the weight difference.
You will also find scooters that feature a stand up or a sit down design. The younger kids definitely seem to favor the stand up type but it certainly isn’t going to be comfortable when you are on it for a length of time. You also won’t have the storage space if you need to carry anything with you.
Most electric scooters require very little maintenence, further adding to your transportation savings. In most cases you will be able to do the basic maintenance and even repairs on your own. You may be wondering how fuel efficient an electric scooter is. While the specific savings will vary by model, many of them can get 60 miles per gallon of fuel.
Since electric scooters don’t take up much space and they are light weight, may college kids prefer to use one instead of a car. They can even ride it around campus and secure it on the bike rack. Most of them can get up to 30 MPH so a quick trip to town or the grocery store is even possible with one.
Electric scooters have continued to grow in popularity in areas where the fuel is high and the weather is nice most of the year. Consumers are looking for an economical means of transportation and they have found in with electric scooters. You can find a great deal of information about them on the internet as well as motorcycle and electric stores.
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February 24th, 2010 by engineering magazines
Motorcycles are very popular, with thousands of them on the road. You will find them in a variety of makes and models for your enjoyment. Finding exactly the style you want that fits your body can prove to be difficult, especially if you are extremely short or very tall. Having a customized motorcycle made to your specifications is a great alternative, but it is also more expensive.
One of the most well known custom motorcycle makers is Jesse James, owner of West Coast Choppers. Jesse James has been passionate about motorcycles since he was seven years old. He has customized motorcycles for many celebrities including Shaquille O’Neal, Kid Rock, and Kyle Petty. The bikes range in price from $50,000 to $150,000.
While this is going to be much to expensive for the average individual, you can still get a great customized motorcycle from some other sources. There are many things you need to consider to get started. First, what is it that you need from a motorcycle that you can’t get from a standard one at any retailer? If it is simply the color, you will save a great deal of money by purchasing it from the retailer and having it repainted. In some cases, you may be able to contact the manufacturer and have the bike painted your ideal color at the factory.
Most of the time, individuals need to have a motorcycle customized to fit them properly. Take Shaquille O’Neal for example. He is such a large person, that the average motorcycle just doesn’t work well for him. Jesse James was able to use O’Neal’s measurements to create a motorcycle that was comfortable for him to ride. Customized motorcycles are a great choice for those with a disability that prevents them from being able to operate a standard motorcycle.
If you are determined to have a customized motorcycle, take the time to research the various manufacturers you have to choose from. Keep in mind that you may have to wait several months or even years to get the motorcycle you want if the manufacturer is very busy. Always discuss the options you want in great detail as well as the price. If the manufacturer won’t agree to your specifications then look for someone who will.
It is a good idea to conduct research about the manufacturer. Find out how long they have been customizing motorcycles. Ask for references and to see samples of their work. You will also want to inquire about warranty information and a guarantee if you aren’t pleased with the work. In most cases, you will have to pay a deposit before work begins on your customized motorcycle. Make sure they are familiar with working with the model of motorcycle you want to have customized.
Having your very own motorcycle is a great recreational item to spend your time with. However, investing in a customized motorcycle will allow you to have the very best motorcycle that fits your style as well as your body. Being comfortable on your motorcycle will allow you more enjoyment and you can also use it for long road trips. You are less likely to be involved in a motorcycle accident if the motorcycle is a proper fit. While a customized motorcycle is more expensive than a traditional model, it is an investment that is well worth it.
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June 25th, 2009 by engineering magazines
So you want to buy a motorcycle? Believe it or not, you have a lot of decisions to make before you are ready to make a purchase. There are dozens of types of motorcycles on the market today, and you will need to make sure you get one that is the right fit for you.
Main Types of Road Bikes
Road bikes are the bikes you will use on paved roads. Most people who are in the market for a motorcycle will choose this type of bike. These bikes are very fuel-efficient and typically have top speeds between 100 and 125 mph. There are multiple types of road bikes you can choose from.
Cruisers include bikes made by Harley-Davidson and Excelsior-Henderson among other manufacturers. When you sit on this bike, your feet will be facing forward. Most cruisers require you to keep your hands up and your spine straight. Choppers are a common type of cruiser. These are designed for comfort on long rides, not necessarily great speed. Many cruisers are custom made for their owners.
A sport bike is a bike that is designed for speed and handles well. It can stop and accelerate quickly and is incredibly maneuverable. These are sometimes called “crotch rockets.” They have a lightweight frame and a high performance engine. The foot pegs are typically quite high, requiring the rider to hold his legs close to the body. The rider generally has to lean forward in order to reach the hand controls.
Those who travel long distances on a regular basis or use their bikes for a long commute may wish to look for a touring model. These bikes have large screens, hold more fuel, and have more comfortable seats than other models. They are less sporty than the first two types, but are far more practical.
Naked bikes are bikes that have few extras. These street bikes are not covered with shiny body panels and do not have screens. They are simply an engine and a seat with the necessary controls. Functionality and performance are the main goals of these bikes.
If you are unsure about the bike you want, head to a dealership and test-drive a few different types. You will find one that is comfortable for you. This is the type of bike you should look for once you are ready to buy.
Scooters
While you may not think of a scooter as a motorcycle, it is does fall in this category. Scooters or motor scooters typically have small wheels and engines. They do not have foot bars, but the rider’s feet sit in front of him on a platform that is part of a step-through frame. These are not designed for speed, but they are designed to be a convenient, portable means of transportation. These are becoming more and more sporty in design as they gain popularity, especially among city dwellers.
Off-Road Motorcycles
Off-road bikes, which are sometimes called dirt bikes, have small, lightweight engines. They have simple construction and have little to no bodywork, because they are not designed for show. The tires are designed for rugged trail riding, and are large and knobby to aid the bike in maintaining traction. These bikes are used for off-road sports, not as a means of transportation. They are usually not street-legal.
Dual-Sport Motorcycles
For those who want to enjoy off-roading with their bikes but also want their motorcycle to be a means of transportation, dual-sport bikes are probably the best option. These bikes can be legally driven on the street, but they are also built durably enough to handle riding off road. There are several types of dual-sport bikes available.
A hypermotard has a powerful engine and is equipped with road tires and rims. The rest of the bike resembles an off road bike. Supermotards are similar bikes. They are known for their good handling on concrete and fast acceleration.
Adventure-touring bikes are road bikes that can go off road on gravel and dirt paths. They are not intended for use in motorbike sports, but those who enjoy touring the outdoors and do not want to be confined to paved roads will find these a good fit.
Get Your License
Before you can ride your bike, you need to have a motorcycle license. Check with your local DMV to find out the rules and regulations in your state regarding motorcycle riders on the road. You may need to take a motorcycle riding safety course. Remember, very little stands between you and the pavement when you are on a motorcycle, so you need to make sure you know how to handle the bike safely. Be sure to practice riding in a variety of conditions, especially wet conditions, before you head out on the open road. If you are not fully prepared for varying road conditions, you could be putting your life and the lives of those around you at risk when you take your bike on the road.
Getting the Right Gear
One of the most important pieces of gear you will need is a helmet. Some states do not require a helmet, but it is a very necessary piece of safety equipment. You will want to get a leather coat and gloves to protect your skin when you ride. Eye gear is required in all states, even those that do not require helmet use. Make sure you purchase eyewear that is designed to be used by motorcycle riders.
Finding the Right Bike
Once you have determined the general style of motorcycle you want, the search begins to find the one that best fits your tastes and needs. There are many places you can go to find the perfect bike. The most obvious option is a motorcycle dealership. If you want a brand new bike, this is the only option. However, if you are shopping for a used bike, you may find that an individual owner will offer you a better price.
If you decide to buy from an individual, you need to spend some time searching motorcycle classifieds. You can find these online or in your local paper. If you want something very specific, shopping with Internet motorcycle classifieds is going to be the best option. You will have a larger base of motorcycle owners from which to choose when you shop online.
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June 17th, 2009 by engineering magazines
There is no bike on the road that looks like a Harley-Davidson. Over the manufacturer’s century-long history, the look of the Harley has changed and the true enthusiast can tell the year of a bike at a glance. One of the most obvious clues is the distinctive Harley engine.
For twenty years, Harleys got their look from the Shovelhead engine, the engine that many people even today automatically associate with the bike.
The End of the Panhead
In the mid 1960s, Harley Davidson motorcycles used the Panhead engine, so called because of the shape of the rocker covers. As the bikes got heavier they required engines with more power than the Panhead could deliver. In 1966, Harley introduced the next evolution of this engine design.
This new engine, like its predecessor, got its name from the shape of the rocker covers. The covers were shaped like coal shovels and these shovelhead parts inspired the Shovelhead engine’s name.
The Shovelhead had more powerful cylinders and pistons and was meant to provide stronger acceleration to meet the demands of bikers of the day.
The engine had its drawbacks. It was more powerful but also heavier so didn’t give as much power as had been hoped. That weight also affected the bike’s steering and could cause it to weave at top speeds.
Some of these shortcomings were because it had not originally been designed as a motorcycle engine. It was supposed to be used in an outboard motor but engineers discovered that it didn’t work well in humid environments, which is rather a significant drawback for a marine engine.
The Shovelhead Era
Although the Shovelhead was not perfect, it still provided a lot of power for the new generation of bikes.
Harley continued to improve the engine throughout its life. In the 1970s there were a number of changes made to the design of Shovelhead parts that resolved many consumer complaints about its performance.
However, the engine never became what bikers wanted it to be. Some of the reasons for this were government regulations that came out of the energy crisis of the 1970s. Harley was limited as to how much power they could give the engine.
One real improvement in Shovelhead parts was the FLH Electra-Glide Package, also known as the Police Option. Although this option made the bike harder for the amateur to maneuver, a skilled rider could get more power and speed.
The End of the Shovelhead
Despite Harley’s efforts, this engine struggled to keep pace with the innovations that were sweeping the industry. Shovelhead parts such as oil management systems were considered archaic when compared to other engines and the machine fell out of favor.
Harley stopped producing the engine in 1984, although manufacturers still make custom engines in the same style. The Shovelhead was replaced by the Evolution engine that Harleys still use today.
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June 12th, 2009 by engineering magazines
A decade ago motorcycles had speed, looks, and style. They have certainly improved with each passing year. Year after year motorcycle manufacturers get more innovative, produce faster, lighter and more comfortable motorcycles, and learn what works and what doesn’t. What are the favorites from 2007?
- Yamaha V Star 1300 Tourer.
These motorcycles have a V2 engine with an electric starter and a liquid cooling system. The seat was 28.1 inches and the dry weight was 668 pounds. It was made with a double cradle frame and a telescopic fork front suspension with a swingarm rear suspension. These motorcycles had single disc rear brakes and double disc front brakes. They have a fuel capacity of 4.88 gallons.
- BMW R1200GS
These motorcycles have a two cylinder boxer engine. They also have an electronic fuel injection with an electric starter. These motorcycles had oil and air cooled engines and a 6-speed gearbox. At 438 pounds, they were meant for speed. These off road motorcycles came in desert yellow metallic, rock red metallic, ocean blue metallic, or granite gray metallic. Though the fuel capacity is a whopping 5.28 gallons, the consumption is 1.45 gallons for every 6.2 miles.
- Yamaha WR 450 F
These are also off road motorcycles. They have a single cylinder engine, with a liquid cooling system. At just 246 pounds, it is nearly two-thirds the weight of the BMW R1200GS motorcycles. The front suspension is a telescopic fork, the rear a swingarm. The fuel capacity on these motorcycles is a mere 2.10 gallons. These motorcycles had single disc brake systems for both front and rear.
- Yamaha FZ1 Fazer
These naked motorcycles had in line four engines with an electric starter. They also had a liquid cooling system, a final drive chain transmission, and digital ignition. Like the BMW R1200GS, these Yamaha motorcycles weighed 438 pounds. The frame was aluminum die cast and the front suspension was telescopic upside down forks. The rear a swingarm suspension. These motorcycles had double disc front brakes and single disc rear brakes. Fuel capacity on these motorcycles is 4.76 gallons.
- Harley Davidson VRSCX
These custom or cruiser motorcycles have a V2 engine. They have an electronic sequential port fuel injection system and liquid cooling system. The seat is a mere 27.1 inches high and the weight 637 pounds. These motorcycles are 5-speed with a final drive belt transmission. The front and rear brakes are both single disc four piston. These motorcycles came in two tone mirage orange pearl or brilliant silver pearl. It has a 5 gallon fuel capacity.
- Victory Vegas Jackpot
Like the Harley Davidson VRSCX, these motorcycles are also custom or cruiser motorcycles. With a V2 engine, an air cooling system, and final drive belt transmission, it has many of the same features as the Harley Davidson VRSCX motorcycles. It has an electronic fuel injection system and a 6-speed gearbox. These motorcycles had an even shorter seat at 25.7 inches high. Though the seat was lower, they were a bit heavier weighing 659 pounds. The fuel capacity was 4.5 gallons and colors included black, orange crush, or sunset red.
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June 10th, 2009 by engineering magazines
Custom motorcycle parts Honda come very handy when you are looking for cool options to upgrade your vehicle. You can get rid of many stock parts to replace them with new and more powerful customizable motorcycle accessories. You can modify your seat, get new fenders, and change the heavy handlebars to adjust them according to your height and stature. These are only some of the options you can consider when upgrading your chopper. Useful knowledge about all motorcycle parts will be very helpful when you finally go shopping for all these exciting custom-designed parts.
The easiest way to search for different motorcycle parts is to browse through an online collection. There are many reputable manufacturers that now have their own websites where you can easily order all the parts you require. Another option is to buy a complete custom motorcycle kit which is cost-effective and very easy to install. However, most people want to have their own customizable parts according to their specifications and liking and therefore they select individual motorcycle parts. Some of the most popular modifications are new exhaust systems, customized frames, wheels and tires, electrical parts and engine modifications.
To find the best motorcycle parts Honda, you are presented with quite a handful of options from CBR parts, CB, CBF, ST, GL, Shadow and VTX models. These parts include fenders, pedals and pegs, batteries, mirrors, handlebars, suspension, helmets, tail lights, fuel systems and many more. You can choose these parts according to your requirements and the model of your Honda motorcycle. You can customize your bike the way you want by using these state-of-the-art motorcycle parts from reputable manufacturers. The overall effect produced by these custom-designed parts is compelling and overwhelming.
There is a separate category of small accessories that you can buy for your Honda motorcycle. These accessories are used to improve the appearance of a bike and also help to make it more functional. If you are a stylish person, you would love these small parts custom-designed for different models. These parts are also known as ‘add-ons’ for complete customization. Honda produces some of the finest and most powerful accessories for all its motorcycle models including Magna, Super Hawk, Nighthawk, VFR, ST 1300, VTX 1800, VTX 1300, and all CBR and Shadow models.
Motorcycle parts Honda also include caps covers, windshields, air intake systems, frames, engine parts and fairings. You can find some really cool and sturdy tires for your bike to enjoy a smoother and safer ride. Similarly, a strong intake system can be installed to improve your bike’s intake performance. There are custom-designed kits available out there to increase carburetor efficiency and overall performance of the engine. The result is an enhanced horsepower and a better drive. Factory installed motorcycle parts often wear out quickly. Some of the examples are stock tail lights and bar-end mirrors. You can install new lights and mirrors to enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding ride.
Whether you are looking for individual parts or complete custom motorcycle kits, Honda has everything you need. If you are planning on upgrading your dull bike to convert it into an exciting and stylish machine, then do check out all these parts and accessories. The best thing about motorcycle parts is that they are not very expensive at all and anybody can afford them. You can consider buying a custom-designed fuel system which is optimized to bring maximum performance, or new handlebars to enjoy a more relaxed journey. Similarly, for safety measures high quality bar-end mirrors and strong fenders are also required. Helmets and adjustable seats are again two of the most beneficial modifications you can make.
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Tags: Automobile, Bicycle, Electric motorcycles and scooters, fuel efficiency, Mobility scooter, Moped, Motorcycle, Scooter
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