| ANDY WALLACE - SAFE MOTORCYCLE TOURING — BLOG
Andy Wallace blogs about Safe Motorcycle Touring for HometownAnnapolis.com. E-mail Andy.
2008-12-31 -- 5:58 pm 2008, I blinked, What happened! Well 2008 has come down to this, the year is gone, my bike is a year older, and plans for 2009 are in the making! I have no 'resolutions' as I just try to live each day as it comes and do the best that I can in all my activities and relationships. I try to always answer my calls regardless of what the caller ID says, get that 'to do' list done now and not tomorrow (it's amazing how fast they get done). I get a lot of feedback from riders from every state and even overseas that I talk to or email as part of my job as website administrator and support for an online parts supplier. I always make it a point to try and add some honest and well intended personal experience or note about the purchasers home state, their bike, recommended rides, or comment on the parts they have purchased. No form letters from this rider. A new rider, Kevin from Kentucky, is restoring his Uncles 78 Low Rider but got off to a great head start by taking the Motorcycle Safety Course before he started on the bike. Fixing up this shovelhead that is now running 'just fine' is a cosmetic job now. He wants to have it looking great in honor of his Uncle. But let's face it; we all want our bikes to look great either in paint, decals, chrome, accessories, or the trend to keep everything, including the pipes, black. We may be working on our bikes, upgrading exhaust, and adding accessories for that big trip in the New Year. But our underlying goal is to keep our bikes in top running order in an attempt to get away from this throwaway society. Until next time: Two fists in the wind .... Too little time (above) .... To be continued! By: Andy Wallace 2008-12-06 -- 11:24 am Well, It's Covered Up and In the Garage, Argh! For those of us in the 'colder' climates who just give up on leather and heated jackets, we resort to winterizing our bikes and then live in agony until the season starts again. Now for those at Red Rock Harley Davidson® in Prince Edward Island, they have some cold weather. I will have to get a report from my contacts, Eric and Gary , up there as to what they do to winterize or ride during the winter. I did the following: - Mixed Stabil with 1 gallon of gas and toped off my tank.
- Ran the bike for about 10 minutes.
- Shut it down and pulled the plugs.
- Sprayed some WD-40 into the cylinders and replaced the plugs finger tight.
- Pluged in my Deluxe Battery tender.
- Checked the tire pressure and installed tire pressure indicator valve caps.
- Covered the bike with my new Dowco® cover.
- Walked away thinking that I have put it away too soon.
To my friend Ron who even rides in the rain to work, I feel for you my friend. Let's hope the rubber side stays down and I will see you in the spring. Until next time, Two fists out of the wind .... Too little time .... To be continued! By: Andy Wallace 2008-11-12 -- 8:07 am It's A Big Motorcycle World I tried to submit this on the USMC birthday, 233 years, but time happens. Semper Fi!
I spent the past week with riders from Papeete, Tahiti, Singapore, Australia, and the United Kingdom to name a few. These riders were looking for parts for their bikes and parts can be a problem when it comes to application. Many motorcycle companies change production parts during the year as quality control picks up small engineering changes to make the product more dependable and trouble free.
Therefore, it's always good to know the production date of your bike. Parts may be numbered, for example, 29970-88, if the part changes during the production year or the same part is used in later years with modifications, you may see 29970-88A (B) and so on.
My discussions with this worldwide ridership was a single theme, they love to ride, they love their bikes, and they are there for other riders needing some assistance.
The underlying theme of all this is the fact that they want their bike to be safe, good tires, brakes, good battery, and all the maintenance that goes with keeping their ride ready.
So, watch out for those in need, regardless of what they are riding (or driving)!
Until next time,
Two Fists In The Wind .... Too Little Time .... To be continued!By: Andy Wallace
2008-10-22 -- 5:55 am Tires and Brakes Not too much can be said for inspection of tires and brakes. To paraphrase an AP article from Wed., Oct. 22, 2008: WASHINGTON - Antilock brakes could help motorcycle riders avoid fatal crashes, according to a study by the insurance industry. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety said Wednesday that the fatal crash rate involving motorcycles equipped with optional antilock brakes, or ABS, was 38 percent lower than the rate involving similar motorcycles without the systems. Antilock brakes, like their counterparts on cars and trucks, help motorcycle riders stop their bikes abruptly without locking up the wheels or fishtailing. The system evaluates the brake pressure multiple times per second, allowing motorcycle riders to fully brake both wheels in an emergency situation and avoid hitting the pavement. Antilocks are more typically found on touring bikes and have been available on a limited number of motorcycles since BMW AG introduced ABS on the K100 in 1988. Even though adding antilock s will not make motorcycling as safe as going by car, it is something manufacturers can do to reduce the risk of traveling on two wheels instead of four, said Adrian Lund, president of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Rob Dingman, president and CEO of the American Motorcyclist Association, said the study shows the potential of antilock brakes, but it also underscores the need for a long-overdue federal study of the causes of motorcycle crashes. Our members would welcome an ABS option on more models, but there must be a broader strategy to reduce motorcycle accidents and fatalities that includes increased education and motorist awareness, Dingman said. Since 1999 motorcycle registrations have surpassed 6 million, compared with 3.8 million in 1998. In the report, researchers studied eight motorcycles that offer antilock brakes as an option. In a second study, the II HS found that antilock brakes appeared to reduce collision claims and insurance losses were 21 percent lower for motorcycles with antilock brakes compared with similar motorcycles without the equipment. ABS typically adds about $1,000 or more to the cost of a motorcycle. Ty van Hooydonk, the Motorcycle Industry Council director of product communications, said ABS can be effective for some riders but it depends on factors such as road conditions, skill level and the type of riding involved. For a number of experienced enthusiasts out there, they are able to stop with a non ABS motorcycle quicker than they are with an ABS equipped motorcycle, van Hooydonk said. While the above is not an option yet for all of us without ABS, the two tires are really the most critical items along with the type and condition of brakes (more on brakes later). Harley Davidson has ABS available along with some models having a reverse capability on their touring bikes. To me, theirs seems to be one of the best out there and it comes with an instructional CD. On tires, I read a Michelin article that stated that tires on motorcycles have a wear patern in pairs and should be replaced in pairs. Moreover, tread depth, check for cracks and punctures, should be a weekly item along with tire pressure. Mine is 35 lbs front and 40 lbs rear. Not without without be criticized, I always suggest new tires when the center is worn flat, cracks from ozone (yeah just motorcycle ozone) are present, tire pressure doesn't stay stable, and tread depth at a questionable level. The Lincoln Penny is often recommended as a tool to measure, but how about a real depth guage measured every 90 degrees. Hard braking cause flat spots too. Look for these. A shout out to our dear friends, the Dieters from Bowie whom now live in Florida. They lost their loving son, Greg, unexpectedely on Sunday. Greg was one of those guys that had a great smile, great personality, and was great in helping other people. I will miss this young man dearly! Until next time, Two Fists In The Wind .... Too Little Time .... To be continued .... By: Andy Wallace 2008-10-20 -- 10:15 pm About that time Well, it is about that time when we're thinking 'wonder how much longer I will be riding?' To get ready, you will need to consider the following: 1. Storage, some dealerships offer winter storage where every dollar spent on storage can be applied to work on your bike such as a service, stage 1 upgrades, chrome packages, etc.. 2. Getting the bike ready for self storage: a. Purchase a bottle of Sta-bil gasoline stablizer. b. Purchase a can of WD-40. c. Purchase a trickle charger, there are several different kinds to choose from. d. Consider changing the oil and transmission. e. Purchase a good cover, such as a Dowco which is vented. f. Purchase cleaning products and polish, I prefer the silicone type but there are many kinds. g. You will need a spark plug tool to complete the job. To get the bike ready, add Sta-bil according to directions depending on the capacity of your tank. Fill up, then add the Sta-bil. Run the bike for about 15 minutes and shut it off. If you have a carburetor, shut off the petcock and let the bike run until it runs out of fuel. Fuel Injected you can just turn off the run switch. Afterwards, let the bike cool off, remove the spark plugs and spray some WD-40 into the cylinders. Then replace the plugs. Hook up the battery trickle charger, clean those areas you didn't notice, add some polish, spray areas prone to rusting such as the pegs with WD-40. Now, just cover it up and wait for next week when you wish you had waited another week! A couple of sites to purchase the trickle charger are the Harley Davidson site, Dennis Kirk, JC Whitney, and a new site called narleychoppers.com. If you have specific questions about your bike, email me and we'll get it started for you. Until then, Two Fists In The Wind .... Too Little Time .... To Be Continued! By: Andy Wallace 2008-10-12 -- 8:10 pm 1st Helmet Review Full Face and 3/4 For the past few days I have been checking out Harley Davidson's ® 3/4 and full face helmets. My inpressions are: The 3/4 helmet fit perfectly and the padding was comfortable. The venting was somewhat marginal as there were only 2 small openings in the top. I guess I would have vented the air through the padding someway, perhaps with tubing or a channel to get the air around the top of the helmet. The weight was good although I have been wearing a skull half helmet all summer. I like to add reflective tape to the back and sides of all my helmets so I did so here. I could have used some help to get a better 'design' for the tape as the cuts are not exactly even. The face shield worked well and you can ride with the visor up at moderate speeds and with the visor down, it is hard to realize that it is down because it is so clear. Removing and replacing the visor took some doing, but once mastered, it was a breeze and the system works well because of the design. The strap was well designed but the elastic that holds the excess strap just doesn't do the job. I will replace the standard release with a quick release, cut the strap and heat the end so it doesn't fray. Now the full face was the same size, the padding was ok, venting not any better, but the main complaint was that my chin was against the bottom of the helmet. The visor was clear but I would have preferred a lighter weight. I will have to compare it against the others I have coming. My bother purchased a helmet with a flip up sun screen behind the visor. That would have been handy yesterday as we rode with the Deale Elks Poker Run. My next post will have the pictures and hopefully my next helmet review. In any case, a good helmet to me, must feel like it belongs there. If you know what I mean. Until then, Two Fists In The Wind .... Too Little Time .... To Be Continued .... By: Andy Wallace 2008-10-06 -- 1:50 pm Helmets, slow in coming, but soon So, Captain Andy What have you been doing? "Training Sir!" What kind of training? "Motorcycle training Sir!" Yes, this stuff takes time when you're waiting on helmets to compare, but I will report on the 3/4 and full face this week. New helmets are being introduced weekly as everyone tries to get on the modular train. It seems that the popularity has grown, and once the word gets out, I believe that this design will be in a majority of new helmet sales. Until later this week, Two Fists In The Wind .... Too Little Time .... To be continued .... By: Andy Wallace 2008-09-24 -- 8:11 am Helmets, So many but why the price range? Over the past month, I have been reviewing helmets, testing, DOT, Snell, and materials. While there are certainly budget differences between buyer selection and why one helmet is picked over another seems to drop down to either price, design (color, graphics, shape, weight), or I'm in a hurry to ride "give me that one!". While manufacturers test their own helmets and determine themselves if they are D.O.T. rated, the helmets may be tested and rated by D.O.T. during the current year and unless there is a problem, you may not see any helmet that passed this test published by someone other than D.O.T.. Then, there is the Snell test. Who is Pete Snell? Pete SnellCheck out this video: Snell Video The Snell test has an administrative fee and testing fees which could be $2000 for 10 sample helmets. Manufacturers who pay for this test pass this fee on to the consumer, but they must have satisfaction of knowing the results. Excerpts from the Missouri Motorcycle Safety Program are in the following PDF FYI. Missouri State Info    Just remember, each manufacturer may have a different sizing chart depending on where the helmet is manufactured. In the near future, I will publish reviews on helmets. I hope to discuss fit, comfort, ventilation, quality of strap, visor, materials, features, and personal preferences. Two Fists In the Wind .... Too Little Time .... To Be Continued!
By: Andy Wallace 2008-09-12 -- 7:24 am Jackets and Other TIps During my trip to Ohio and back, I picked up a few things that should be filed away in your motorcycle do's and don'ts. - Early in the morning, when the roads are dark and traffic is light, keep watching the rider(s) with you and don't become a 'deer in the headlights' and let your mind wander off so your attention to direction, brakes, and throttle are lost in the moment.
- Stop every hour as you may find that your legs may fall 'asleep' and you will notice that moving from highway bar pegs to regular pegs becomes difficult. Making the switch every 15 minutes or so should keep you active and remember that moving at 65 (speed!) will make your legs colder especially early in the morning.
- Berm: If you need to stop in traffic, you have to watch where you are in the lane. Most riders put their left foot down to balance the bike at a stop. This may be fine on a 2 lane highway, but riding the left lane on a dual lane, you may find that the drop off on the left side may be a problem because you won't be able to get your left leg to the ground without loosing balance. So, I suggest you ride right of center in the left lane and left of center in the right lane. However, in ridin with a group, you have to stagger bikes so if this is a problem keep extra distance between riders.
- Trailer loading. This was the first time I loaded my bike on a trailer. The 1st step is to have the trailer ramp at the lowest angle possible. You may have to back the trailer to a spot where the ramp is extended to the top of a small slope. 2nd be sure to center the bike to the center of the trailer. 3rd start about 15 feet away if possible so you have control of the speed and brakes. Usually your target is the front wheel chock in the front. Finally, once you have the front wheel up, let off the throttle and coast so you can stop with both feet down before you maneuver the front wheel, with the engine OFF, into the chock. Tie downs are not tricky but you don’t want to use the handlebars as a tie down spot, this could result in some expensive repairs if they bend.
Jackets: After researching jackets for the past few months, I am of the opinion that you need to consider at minimum a good quality leather jacket and if possible get a jacket that has the padding in the back, shoulders, and elbows. Jackets are made with zip off panels so you have the ventilation in warmer weather and wind and rain resistance when you need it. To go with your purchase, get a good quality wide leather belt that will hold your cell phone case and you may also consider getting a wallet with the chain clip. It's a real problem if something flies off at speed. When it comes to your purchase get something that is in your budget. Joe Rocket and Harley Davidson® FXRG® have top quality products. Harley has great style and most products have a great classic design for men and women. Joe Rocket has good products and their design is more of a sport style. You can find some really expensive gear on the net, but get started and used to a jacket all the time. I prefer the fabric FXRG® removable panel type and it is really comfortable. For cooler temps I will go with my midweight leather jacket. For sites an places to look, just shoot off an email and I will return the links I checked. I spent the day reflecting and remembering the loss of life on 09/11. The announcer stated that a pilot lost his way and accidently hit the World Trade Center. Duh! My sister in law was working at the Pentagon and was lucky to have been about 500 feet from the impact area. My brother from Denver keep calling me at work and telling me that the towers were falling to the ground. I couldn't imagine that, but I wish I were on one of the planes because, believe me, I would have been giving the order to 'let's roll' to the cockpit. God bless America, don't forget the service of our WWII, Vietnam, Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine, Navy veterans! Two fists in the wind .... Too little time .... To be continued! By: Andy Wallace 2008-09-01 -- 9:37 am On The Road To Ohio and Back Well, what a trip! A little extended but back with tips on the ride that probably are not covered in a motorcycle riders course. A shout out to those folks from the Sugar Shack in Friendsville, Maryland whom we met while taking a break off Route 68. As for the trip, I packed light, took my Nelson-Rigg 'RiggPak' 450, one change of clothes, some tools, a camera, rain suit, flashlight, tire plug kit, extra bungee cords, water, vest, gloves, and basic essentials. As it turned out, the weather was absolutely perfect! The ride, although 489 miles long, was very scenic and comfortable. The extra seat padding that Sandy Payne added for me was like an easy chair going down the road. My brother rode half way with me (we split in Friendsville) and I missed riding with someone as I feel it makes the ride safer when you're with others. Next time I will give you the safety details of the trip which will include loading and unloading your bike on a trailer. You may be surprised, I know I was when 'stuff happens'! Two fists in the wind .... Too little time .... To be continued! By: Andy Wallace 2008-08-18 -- 9:53 am Kevlar and other armor jeans/pants I spent the weekend reading articles on jeans and the different brands. I summarized from these postings that competition is keen and the sales are there because most riders are, in my opinion, looking for a stylish jean with good protection.
Draggin Jeans, Bohn Armor, Joe Rocket, Sliders, and Harley Davidson® Motorclothes® FRXG® are some of the ones to consider. Some are just plain jeans with armor and others are an over pant.
I would look for function, a high denier count, location of armor, and of course, price.
I couldn't recommend one over the other, suffice it to say that protection will help minimize road 'burn' should that need occur.
I witnessed a rider who was wearing a leather jacket and jeans with a wallet and papers in the rear pockets. Even with the jacket shredded and the jeans torn, he was unscathed after failing to negotiate turning into a newly paved section of the road (about 2" above the old road) and he went down.
Again, judgment when maneuvering is something you can pickup from a riders training class.
Next time we'll move into the more popular jackets knowing that the boots, jeans, jackets, and helmet are essential riding gear.
Tuesday I am riding up 70, to 68, to 77, and then on to Ohio to meet my Vietnam veteran brother for some family  time, and I give a shout out to my retired U.S. Park Police brother in North Carolina just to say that I know you'll be there in spirit.
This long ride alone will be my first and I hope to have some 'good' reports when I return.
This is your Phelps Phan saying until next time,
Two fists in the wind .... To little time .... To be continued ....
By: Andy Wallace
2008-08-11 -- 8:19 am Motorcycle Safety Gear, Jeans and Other Choices  Well, this weekend was the opportunity for riders to ride up to the 'East Coast Sturgis' in Little Orleans, MD. I understand from Rusty and Christine that there were about 5000+ motorcycles attending. The ride was about 3 hours and beautiful all the way. Little Orleans is contigious to the Green Ridge State Forest with this link: Campground and then check this motorcycle link: East_Sturgis . In the meantime, I have been reviewing the somewhat limited availablity of jeans with armour padding in the knees, hips, and backside. It seems that the style of jeans is lacking although the function is there. Women especially, need a 'designer' style to get their attention. As for us guys, well do we really care as long as they're some shade of blue or faded?
 Later this week, I will have this limited topic complete with pictures and links, however, with the Olympics and rooting for one of our local Olympic Athletes, Michael Phelps: I have been tied up watching 24/7 and offering my 'GO MIKE' to those within earshot.
Two fists in the wind .... Too little time .... To be continued! By: Andy Wallace 2008-08-04 -- 9:16 am Motorcycle Safety Gear, Boots are very important! The 1st installment on boots is below. Look for state recommendations, state laws on helmets and gear, and actual product reviews of gear discussed when possible. Boots: I have been doing some research on boots and the concerns are below with the note that these boots are really made for walking if you're going to like them. As for women riders, there are many boots out there that are safe and have nice designs on the uppers. If the boot is heavy now, give it a few weeks, it will become a part of you if your feet are comfortable. 1. Is the sole sewn or bonded. (will the sole easily come off if in contact with the road or ground. 2. How comfortable are they, can you walk in comfort and are they too heavy? 3. Will the color stay fast and not stain your socks? 4. How will they hold or will they abraise up if caught between the road and the bike or some other object, moreover, boots help protect you from hot exhausts.5. Does the sole extend beyond the edge of the boot and are they soles thick? 6. Are they waterproof, or can you use spray waterproofing? 7. Do they look good and protect you when needed? 8. Can you pull them off by hand or do you need to unzip or untie first? 9. Does the top of the boot extend above the ankle as required? 10. What is your budget? Aside from these considerations, the most important ones are a sturdy sole on the boot and thick uppers for protection. And, don't forget to take an extra pair of socks along for the ride. I have looked at Doc Marten, Bates, Harley Davidson®, Magnum, Fox Racing, and Teknic among others. As for me, I have selected a study boot from Harley Davidson® that has a zipper (Titanium parts) and I sprayed them with waterproofing. They still leak through the zipper in the rain, so maybe I will get some boot covers for those long trips. I have a pair of Magnums and they are easier on and off because the zipper curves forward toward the toe. They are light but have cloth uppers. They do have a sturdier boot with a composite toe which is nice to save the 'dent' when shifting. Stay tuned, next we will discuss the jeans and other clothing that have a trend to include safety padding in the knees and hips! Two fists in the wind .... To little time .... To be continued .... By: Andy Wallace 2008-07-28 -- 8:28 am Motorcycle, Motor Scooter, or Moped? Maryland has redefined what is classed as a motorcycle, a motor scooter, or a moped. With the price of gasoline rising, I am sure we will see these vehicles on in the right lane and limited in some cases to 30 or 35mph. Drivers will now have to yield to these vehicles until such time as it is safe to pass. I have a personal experience with being in a line of traffic behind a moped. It was patience that ruled as we were on a 40mph road with plenty of curves and hills. On Maryland's MVA website, the redefinitions can be found along with restrictions and right of way rules @ MDMVA. If you do not have a drivers license, you must obtain a moped license @ MD Moped License A motor scooter in Maryland must be registered redefinition can be found @ MD Moped LicenseLet's watch out for these vehicles and as you will find, the mopeds come under the bicycle rules for helmets and safety gear. Until next time: Two fists in the wind .... Too little time .... To be continued.
By: Andy Wallace 2008-07-26 -- 5:42 am Freedom of riding To me, the freedom of riding a motorcycle comes from when I rode bareback in Virginia. You just give your horse the reins and the faster he goes, the smoother the ride. Maybe Kevin Costner in Dances with Wolves was demonstrating this freedom when he rode in front of the Confederate lines.  Two things that happened today have a background and will make this article on the verbose side. First, I had Harley pickup my bike because it had an oil leak and it needed a 10,000 mile service. And second, I received permission to link to a great website for women that coincidentally led me that evening to Christina’s birthday party where most of the women had their Harley shirts on (now there is a Brad Paisley song!). Most of these women either had their own bike or rode with their husband or boyfriend. In the first case, after a hard run which average 53mpg back from North Carolina, my brother and I came to the Wilson Bridge where it took 45 minutes of stop and go a few feet to finally break out after going over the bridge. Two things that you learn fast are that you keep one foot on the ground and stay off the front brake and the engine gets so hot that you’re waiting for Al Gore to give you a citation for global warming. I think this is what started my oil leak from the rocker cover. Your riding gear comes in handy in these cases, especially the boots. Well, it’s a good thing that I have roadside assistance on my motorcycle policy. The second thing ties into the rest of my day. The topic of women motorcycle riders is a growing story of freedom in America. After my bike was picked up, I received a reply to my email to Genevieve Schmitt of (click here) Women Riders Now where I asked permission to reference her site. I highly recommend this link to any women reading this writer’s comments today. Genevieve has the background for publishing this site as well as an organized web page of relevant topics for women who are thinking about getting a motorcycle or women (and men) who want a good read on the pertinent topics listed down the left side of the site. So don’t miss anything, it’s all good! The second event continues at Christina’s birthday party. It was a fun event, everyone was happy and friendly especially her beautiful family. Feliz Cumpleaños Christina, as we sang happy birthday and cheered as she blew out the candles on the cake. Christina and her husband had just returned from Niagara Falls which was a 1200 mile trip. Preparation was in making sure the bike was properly loaded while staying within the bikes load capacity. The trip was taken at a leisurely pace keeping safety on the road in the forefront. I thought about how this group of Christina, family, and friends could be the focus of an article on Genevieve's website. This article is a story of my brother and I being able to share our motorcycle experience as brothers and Christina and her family being able to enjoy life with her family and friends because of motorcycles. It’s the freedom and glue that binds riders together across the country. I am sorry, but you don’t just meet the nicest people on a Honda anymore! Two fists in the wind …. Too little Time …. To be continued …. By: Andy Wallace 2008-07-24 -- 3:50 am The 09's are out! Well, a few '09 models of most motorcycles are on their websites, but all of the Harley Davidson® motorcycles are on their website. I have been looking for safety and mileage improvements this year and the rumors about water cooled engines, ABS standard, and a Touring V-Rod are not there. Instead, they introduced a new V-Rod Muscle™ and they have the new Slipper/Assist clutch for safety and performance! The most significant changes were made to the Touring and Sportster® models, which will be welcome. Touring bikes have been given a larger Dunlop® Multi-Tread™ rear tire, improved suspension, and changes for larger load capacity which are a safety plus. The Sportsters® have improved suspension. For good tire tips you can use these links to Dunlop Tire Tips and Michelin Tyre Tips. In a later post, I will relate some tire maintenance stories! As for my luggage bag I am putting together, my shipping notice has an ETA of 07/30, so my report on that will follow. I did make one change to a smaller bag 12"x 22" for a volume of approximately 1.44 cubic feet (π x r² x l = 2488 cu. in. / 1728 cu in = 1.44 cu. ft). This compares to most of the T-Bag and Nelson Rigg bags selling for over $129, and they are not water proof. Knowing that 1 liter = 0.0353146667 cubic feet, the Nelson Rigg CTB-450, which is my sissy bar bag, converts to 1.29 cu. ft. The T-Bag Tahoe I looked at is 1.76 cu. ft.. So the question is, do you want a smaller bag for everyday riding to hold those items you have to pickup and then another bag for your trip, or do you lug around large bag? My cost (which is on the compression bag high side) including shipping and the form tube is only $53. I still need a secure way to attach it to the motorcycle so that the bag is balanced, and looks like it belongs there (hence the smaller bag). Pictures to follow. Oh well, I can't see it behind me! There are some exciting rides ahead for me and I am looking forward to going to New Holland, Ohio. I used to publish some rides on another site including one to Little Orleans, Maryland. And, don't forget the ride to the wall where there is a reflection and emotion that stirs inside everyone, regardless age or military experience. You should check out these one or two day tours. If requested, I can email or post links with with maps. There are some great rides in Maryland and at least once a month I take the  " tail of the gecko" just to ride the twisties locally and end up in a seafood restaurant somewhere on the water for lunch. (More on this later) So, until next time, keep your distance, drive defensively, and watch that tire pressure! Two fists in the wind .... Too little time .... To be continued .... By: Andy Wallace 2008-07-20 -- 12:10 am Improvised Tour Bag In my travels and web browsing, I picked up a way to make a tour bag for under $75 and though I would give it a try. I am going to order a waterproof compression bag from this link: Cabelas and then it's off to The Home Depot or Lowes tomorrow for a 16" diameter concrete form tube which I will cut to length (30") for support. The left over piece will be used to support a smaller length bag. The straps should give good support in securing the bag to my sissy bar and the bag will be on the rear passenger seat. I plan to use this on my next long tour to Ohio in August. I found that saddlebags are just not my favorite way of packing my gear. Will keep you advised with pictures. So check it out! Two fists in the wind .... To little time .... To be continued. By: Andy Wallace 2008-07-18 -- 9:45 am Ready to Ride? Now that you've completed the riders safety course, passed your motorcycle license exam, purchased your bike, and have your motorcycle insurance let's get ready to ride! Your safety riding gear is ready and you've decided to take a scenic trip for a day. Let's check the bike out. Check the oil level (some transmissions have a separate gauge), gas level or mileage since last fill, check brake, tail, and headlight(s), and most important the tires. Tires should be checked for proper pressure based upon load and passenger. Then check the tread for safe depth, wear, and tread and sidewalls for any signs of damage from running over something in the road. I recently installed the tire pressure caps that show green if pressure is correct, however, I am concerned that they may leak and you have to remove them to put use gauge or add air. More on this later. To figure how much you can carry, you need to know the GVWR, or gross vehicle weight rating of the bike, the weight of the bike with gasoline and oil, and the weight of rider, passenger, and any luggage your taking along (saddlebags, sissy bar bag, tank bag, etc.. Your owners manual should have this number and some motorcycle manufacturers give the running order weight which includes gasoline and oil. Or add, 6 lbs for each gallon of gasoline/oil capacity to the weight of the bike. Compute the weight of rider, passenger, safety gear, and luggage. 1. Let's say the weight of the rider and passenger is 295 lbs. 2. The weight of the helmet, boots, jacket, and clothing is 24 lbs. 3. The weight of the sissy bar bag you are packing is 35 lbs. 4. The weight of the luggage rack, saddle bags, windshield, and other equipment added is 25 lbs. 5. The weight of the fuel and oil is 8 gallons x 6 lbs or 48 lbs. Subtract this number from the GVWR from your manual or manufacturer or from your VIN sticker on the motorcycle. If the front GVWR is 335 lbs. If the rear GVWR is 665 lbs. Total GVWR is 1000 lbs 1000 lbs, Less bike weight 557 lbs. Load carrying capacity: 443 lbs.Less weight on bike: 427 lbs. Margin: 16 lbs.Now make sure your luggage is secure on the bike with either bungee cords or straps. This is where a luggage rack and/or sissy bar come in handy. There are also bungee cord posts available that you can place on the end of a bolt on the bike. Check your route, weather, and have a great ride! Next we’ll cover luggage and some inexpensive alternatives. Two fists in the wind …. Too little time …. To be continued …. By: Andy Wallace 2008-07-15 -- 4:21 pm Getting ready to ride? If your not riding at present and you're getting ready to make that motorcycle purchase to save on gas or just for the fun of it, these are some things to consider knowing that you must have been tested by the state before you can get your class M motorcycle license in Maryland. 1. If I purchase a bike, what kind of warranty does it have? 2. Where will I get the bike serviced and do they have qualified technicians? 3. Can I afford to make a purchase that I may not like 4 months from now, or should I look for a good used motorcycle? 4. How much is the insurance on a motorcycle and what coverage options are there? 5. Where will I take my safe riding course and at what cost? 6. If I purchase brand 'X', what kind of value does it hold in the market place? 7. How often do I have to service the bike and at what cost? 8. I know there are a lot of optional accessories, which ones do I need it any? 9. Do I have friends who ride now? If so, what do they say? 10. Did you know that the friendliest people on the road are other riders who will literally give you the shirt off their back to help you if in distress? There is no one answer to any of these questions, so if you have concerns, email me and I will return some references such as business locations or web sites to check. Next I will cover maintenance and safety concerns of motorcycle owners and the various differences of opinions about maintenance intervals and costs involved.
Two fists in the wind .... Too little time .... To be continued .... By: Andy Wallace 2008-07-14 -- 8:53 am Riding in the rain. In doing my research for rain suits on my ride through the Blue Ridge mountains, I found there are many types of suits, colors, prices, and construction. I looked for these features: 1. The pants: a. Both legs had to have heat shields on the inside of the lower leg. b. Full outside zipper so that you didn't have to fight pushing your boots through. c. A 'seat pad' that will keep you from slipping when wet. d. A highly visible color with reflective tape (you can add this) e. Suspenders if a two piece suit (my preference). 2. The jacket: a. It should have a hood that you can place your helmet over. b. Reflective tape and high visibility color. c. Extra length in the rear of the jacket so that rain will not enter the bottom. d. Water proof pockets for those items you need access to. e. Pass through pockets so you can get to your inside pants pockets. f. The new 'waterproof' zipper and a large cover flap. g. Wrist velcro and elastic wrist band (I recommend waterproof gauntlet type gloves. (Many waterproof gloves have a shield wiper built into the right thumb). While my preferences may cost you some extra bucks, safety should not be compromised. Your helmet should be a full face type with good ventilation. Boot 'gaiters' can be used if you don't have water proof boots. My boots leaked through the inside zipper because of poor design. Which brings us to the ride. Keep it slow and stay to the inside or outside of the lane to avoid the center which usually has oil residue that is really slippery when wet. Keep extra distance from the vehicle in front to allow more easy braking time. In this regard, your tires must be at proper pressure and have good tread. Take extra caution when turning and stopping. I personally try to coast to a stop when I can and I prefer minimal use of the front brake. Be especially careful on exit ramps, they come up fast and hitting a curb will put the bike down fast. Then there is driving rain, standing water, and wind. If the conditions are too bad, head for the nearest comfort zone and wait it out. My ride through light rain for about 2 hours was dry, except for the boots, and a chance for me to get an experience and a few lessons. Two fists in the wind .... Too little time .... To Be Continued .... By: Andy Wallace
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