Tech Tips
This section describes the Tech Tips articles from previous issues. If you would like to order the
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June 2008 Restoring Motorcycle Performance, Part 1
The laissez-faire philosophy "If it runs, let it be" might work with your bike for a while, but eventually it will catch up to you. Over time and mileage, the performance of a motorcycle slowly declines, usually at such a slow rate that we don't notice…
May 2008 Inspecting a Used Motorcycle, Part 2
Last month we covered looking for frame cracks and other evidence of a crashed or neglected bike, checking the engine and clutch for unusual wear and tear, and ensuring that the final drive is in good condition. This month we continue with other things to look for that may indicate that what you think is a great buy isn't so great after all…
April 2008 Inspecting a Used Motorcycle, Part 1
Used motorcycles vary tremendously in condition, from junkers to jewels and everything in between. Therefore it's essential to do some homework before shopping. Familiarize yourself with the normal used price range, original appearance, and spare parts availability of the bike. Take a bike-savvy friend along who may notice things you overlooked, and bring a flashlight to aid inspection…
March 2008 Toolkits for the Road—Be Prepared or Walk Home
I may be the king of breakdowns, thanks to decades of riding old motorcycles and driving decrepit cars. Call it over-optimism or foolishness (or poverty), I've often found myself on the side of the road or trail with too few electrons in my battery, too much air in my gas tank or on the outside of my tires, or less parts than I left home with. This was especially true in my younger college years, when my lack of experience was mercilessly paired with my impecunious condition. As they say, experience is something you get right after you need it. Let me share a few things I've learned over the years the hard way, so that you don't have to…
February 2008 How to be Clean and Green
Motorcycles are generally far less damaging to the environment than cars, SUVs, and trucks. They require fewer resources to manufacture; use less fuel to operate; and take up less space on the road and when parked, so less land needs to be paved over. In fact, if everyone in the United States switched over to motorcycles, we could stop importing oil and we'd probably eliminate gridlock and the need for expanding highways all at the same time. But as concerned, responsible motorcyclists, there's even more that we can do…
January 2008 Winterizing Your Motorcycle
Whether you live in an area where winter weather includes low temperatures causing icy and/or snow-covered roads that make riding unpleasant or unsafe, or plan to vacation for an extended period sans motorcycle, it's important to prep your beloved machine for periods of inactivity. A few simple tasks can protect your investment and have you up and running quickly when it's time to ride again…
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