Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
If you ask 100 motorcycle riders how riding makes them feel, I’d be willing to bet that a majority of them describe a “pick me up” or peace of mind they can’t get anywhere else.
Reddit has an entire thread devoted to how riding makes people feel. Brian Steuber, a former U.S. Army staff sergeant, describes the rush this way: “My medical prescription is 800-plus pounds of American-made metal and chrome. No drug can compare; no feeling is better. That’s why I ride.” And then there’s Dan Aykroyd, who once said, “You do not need a therapist if you own a motorcycle, any kind of motorcycle!”
Maybe it’s the surge of adrenaline or that sheer feeling of freedom. It could be the thrill of hitting the road with your riding buddies—or, if you prefer going it lone wolf, the moments of solitude away from the rest of the world. But no matter how riding makes you feel, the impact of a good ride is unmistakable.
Riders instinctively know that the best cure for a tough day is two wheels and an open road. Still, research about the mental benefits of riding a motorcycle has been surprisingly spotty at best. That is, until earlier this year, when Harley-Davidson America funded a study to explore how riding affects our brains.
After decades of relative radio silence, science is now confirming what riders have known all along: getting on a motorcycle is good for your mood.
A quick rundown of the UCLA-Harley motorcycle study
In the recent University of California, Los Angeles study funded by Harley, researchers recorded the brain activity and hormone levels of more than 50 riders. The scientists tracked brain activity before motorcycles hit the road, mid-ride and afterward—plus while they were driving a car and relaxing. The ride was 22 miles, in normal weather conditions, and all participants rode their own motorcycles.
Here’s what the researchers found: A motorcycle ride decreased the participants’ stress biomarkers by almost 30%. Riding for 20 minutes boosted their heart rates by more than 10% and adrenaline by 27%—similar to the effect of getting light exercise. (Check out this article we wrote on the health benefits of riding a motorcycle, from a stronger core to better stability.)
Meanwhile, the EEG detecting the riders’ brain activity found that the ride did more good than just getting their cortisol under control—though that’s pretty significant to begin with. Changes in brain activity showed that the riders were more alert and less likely to be distracted, similar to what happens when you drink a cup of coffee.
It might feel like a bummer that Harley is planning to use the study to sell more motorcycles.
But if that news gets you down, at least there’s a science-backed remedy for easing your worried mind: going out for a ride.
Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
When you picture motorcycles on a golf course, the first thing that comes to mind is probably something like this video: a rider ripping up the green, wreaking more than a bit of havoc. But in the near future, golfers might be seeing a lot more two-wheeled vehicles on the links.
At the PGA Demo Show Day earlier this year, a number of motorized single-rider scooters made their big debut, gaining a lot of traction for their potential to infuse some much-needed speed and sense of adventure into a historically slow-moving sport. Here’s a quick primer on the rise of scooters and motorbike-style rides in the world of golf.
Two-wheelers hitting the links
Golf carts are typically designed to zip around the course at between 12 and 14 mph maximum speed. The slow speed and overall inefficiency of “hole to hole” transport has been holding back the golfing community for ages, leading to plenty of complaints on the green—and even more “DIY” approaches for making existing golf carts go faster, legally. (Why legally? Because every state has a different law for just how golf carts can be modified, and how fast they can go.)
Simply put, sharing a ride with another golfer, and potentially having to zig-zag around the course because of it, is pretty inefficient. It’s even led some to claim that the golf carts of the past will soon go the way of the dinosaur. Why? Because electric scooters and motorcycles are delivering more speed, more efficiency and a better pace-of-play overall.
One of the most talked-about electric golf cart alternatives is the FinnCycle, the brainchild of Sun Mountain Sports, the same company that brought the golf world built-in legs on golf bags. The FinnCycle electric scooter claims to shave an hour off a round of golf by getting players from one hole to the next faster. Although it tops out at 15 mph, the scooter allows for much more agile maneuvering than four-wheeled golf carts, with the major advantage of each golfer going solo to his or her ball. And where do the clubs go? They attach right to the front of the scooter.
For golfers who have never operated a scooter before, let alone a motorcycle, the creators have lessened the learning curve. Golfers can control the pedal-free scooter with a thumb throttle and hand brakes. At 80 pounds, the ride uses low-pressure tires—the back tires have turf tread—to deliver the desired traction without damaging the green.
Although the FinnCycle might make golf course transportation look and feel easy, Sun Mountain Sports’ CEO said creating it was anything but. They started out with a three-wheel tilt scooter but couldn’t get the suspension quite right. After building out a complete prototype for a four-wheel standup scooter, they realized two wheels was the way to go.
Meanwhile, the Phat Scooter—named for its fat, cruiser-style tires—is also hitting the green. But unlike the FinnCycle, this ride is actually street-ready (if you stick to the bike lane). Topping out at 20 mph, the Phat Scooter rides like a bike-scooter hybrid. Complete with a USB charger, a built-in cooler, a place in the back for your golf bag and a spot especially for keeping balls, tees and scorecards, the Phat Scooter is designed to meet the unique needs of golfers.
But does all that make for a comfortable ride? Just ask PGA Pro Pat Perez, who says using the Phat Scooter is “like riding a couch.”
Over in Sweden, Eduard Gray has launched the Ellwee, a four-wheel ATV-inspired golf course vehicle with specialized features like a downhill brake. It claims to increase the speed of completing a round by 25% while delivering the lowest rate of wear and tear.
But are they really ‘motorcycle-style?’
As these golf cart alternatives appear more frequently on the green, there’s been talk of them delivering “fairway freedom.” One article even said the FinnCycle “lets you channel your inner Steve McQueen,” pairing the headline with an image of someone from Sun Motor Sports ‘popping a wheelie’ on the scooter. But although riders can relate to the thrill of the open road, it’s impossible to compare these golf course scooters to motorcycles themselves. (And as some forums share, these rides also remove the barrier between golfer and the elements, which might be an undesirable reality of riding that many golfers aren’t quite ready to embrace just yet.)
Will there soon come a day when the icon Caddyshack-style golf carts disappear from greens altogether? And will these golf cart alternatives continue to evolve from their current scooter-esque functionality and get closer to delivering the experience we know so well as riders?
Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
You’ve searched far and wide for the motorcycle of your dreams. And then, after countless hours of researching models and even more hours scouring sale listings, the moment you’ve been waiting for has arrived. You’ve finally found your perfect bike.
The catch? It’s sitting pretty three states away.
As more of us choose to purchase motorcycles online, we’re faced with a choice: ship the motorcycle or move it ourselves. There are definite advantages to making the drive, strapping down the bike in your pickup truck and driving it home yourself. There’s nothing like seeing the motorcycle in person and being able to hand the seller cash when you confirm you love what you see. And what rider would pass up an opportunity to try out their new motorcycle on a nice long ride? Or maybe you’re planning to make a mini-road trip out of it, flying to pick up the motorcycle and then riding it home.
No matter your reason for moving your motorcycle yourself, keep these logistics issues in mind to ensure you’re making the choice best for your bike (and your wallet).
Choose the correct tie-downs
How you tie down your bike can mean the difference between a safe arrival and a damaged motorcycle—and the damaged ego that comes along with it. Use high-quality tie-downs with ratchet or cam buckles .
Which model of tie downs you choose may vary, but one thing is for sure: don’t trust the $10 4-pack of tie-downs from Home Depot when your motorcycle’s safety is at stake. Now Home Depot is a fine establishment, but they certainly aren’t in the business of transporting motorcycles.
Check your tie-downs for a manufacturer’s rating that matches the needs of your motorcycle. Many tie-down brands boast about the “web rating” of their product. This is simply the amount of weight that can be applied to the strap portion before it breaks. Don’t be fooled by the web rating alone as usually the assembly or the hooks are the first to fail. Look for a strap with an assembly rating of at least 800 lbs, and a hook rating of 1000 lbs. Higher quality tie-downs are expensive, but their cost pales in comparison to your motorcycle’s value or the cost of repairs from a motorcycle transport gone wrong.
Your straps should have a soft, nylon portion in which to connect to your bike. Avoid attaching the metal hooks directly as they may cause damage. The best strap is one that has a built in soft loop. Or you might simply use a simple soft tye attachment with your metal hook.
Make sure your truck is properly equipped for the job
Having a truck is a good start. Having high-quality tie-downs is even better. But once you’ve got these basic elements in place, it’s time to consider all the logistics of getting your motorcycle securely strapped down, loaded and unloaded.
You’ll want four ties for a street bike—at the front and on both sides—and as many as six for a larger motorcycle, situated at the front and back. Make sure your truck has strong hooks capable of holding down your new ride. These points should be part of your vehicle’s structural body. Factory installed hooks are the best, don’t rely on aftermarket clamp-on style hooks. Don’t make the mistake of attaching a strap to the sheet metal of your fender, or worse yet, your removable bed liner. The best location is low in the bed. You want to achieve a 45-degree angle as shown in the diagram if possible.
Next, you’ll also need a proper ramp to load your motorcycle in and out of your truck bed. You may think it’s easy enough to get a motorcycle into your truck, but we can tell you from experience that it’s simply not. Just for fun, type “motorcycle loading fails” into YouTube and you will see a few examples of this.
One of the most important things to remember about your ramp, is that it is secured to your truck so that it doesn’t slide off when loading. This can be accomplished with just about any ramp if you run straps from the ramp to secure points on your truck. Here is a ramp that will get the job done for you. Spring for the ramp; your back (and bike) will thank you.
Position your vehicle properly
Common sense will tell you to find a level place to park your truck, but here are two more tips to consider that are even more helpful. First, it’s always better to load on concrete or asphalt instead of dirt. This will make the base for the ramp more stable and give you and anyone helping you much better footing. Next, try to find a low spot in which to place the rear wheels of your truck. Sometimes the best is to simply back your truck into a driveway and leave the rear wheels in the gutter or next to a curb.
Set your parking brake. Whether you’re driving an automatic, or a stick shift, the last thing you want is your truck to move even a couple of inches while you in the middle of loading your new bike.
Get people to help
You may be more of a “lone wolf” rider, but when it comes to moving your motorcycle, don’t go it alone. We have seen people who successfully load their motorcycle, using the engine to drive bike up the ramp, but this is not the preferred method. It’s best to have at least one person on each side of the ramp to assist with balance, and one person at the back of the bike. You should have people ready to help you at both ends of your journey: loading the motorcycle onto your truck and unloading once you’ve made it home.
Tie your bike properly
One person should steady the bike while another starts the process of strapping the bike in the front. Make sure the kickstand is up during this process. The most important part here is to choose the correct location and method of connecting the strap to the bike. As mentioned previously, it is best to start with a soft tye, but always look for a structurally solid place to wrap the tye. My favorite is the lower triple clamp or fork assembly. Just be sure that you wrap the strap around the clamp or fork and avoid pinching any wires, cables or brake lines. You sometimes need to really work the nylon strap into the right position to avoid any damage.After you have the strap connected, extend the other end to your connection point inside the truck bed. Make sure the strap does not put any pressure on bodywork, fenders, light bars etc. If so, choose another strapping location or connection point.
Repeat this procedure on the other side and add straps to the back of the bike as well for a minimum total of four.
Check your vehicle pre-trip
When you’re riding high on the thrill of your new motorcycle, the last thing you want is car troubles. Check your tires, brake pads, fluids and other essentials before you embark upon your road trip. Also keep in mind that moving a motorcycle will put wear and tear on your vehicle (in addition to racking up miles, depending on how far away your motorcycle is located).
Factor in your true trip costs
When you’re finally going to pick up your new motorcycle, it’s easy to overlook the true costs of moving it yourself. But be sure to factor in gas/fuel, wear and tear, materials like tie-downs—and the value of your time—when budgeting for your road trip.
With spring weather here and summer right around the corner, there’s never been a better time to buy your dream motorcycle and have some fun. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, safe way to get your bike from Point A to Point B, Motorcycle Shippers can help as well. Get a free quote today to see if we can save you some time and money when buying that new bike.
Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
We assist 1000’s of riders every year that are buying and selling motorcycles. Through all of this, we have learned a thing or two. We thought we would share a few tips that will help you find the best way to sell your motorcycle and get more money.
We’ve all experienced the moment when the thought first enters our mind: Should I sell my motorcycle? Maybe you’re ready for an upgrade, or maybe you just don’t have enough garage space for your second bike anymore. But no matter the reason, selling your bike is a big decision—especially if you’re as passionate about riding as we are.
You’ve probably already heard the statistics on motorcycle sales, which peaked at around 700,000 in 2006 and have been skidding ever since. In 2016, riders bought around 370,000 new bikes, about half the amount they did 10 years earlier. To entice new bike enthusiasts, manufacturers are touting less expensive bikes, with Harley famously promoting “nine bikes for less than $12,000.”
Given the current market, what should riders do when they decide it’s time to sell their bike?
First, breathe a sigh of relief, because it’s not all doom and gloom. A recent Foremost Insurance study found that nearly half of the motorcycle owners surveyed planned on purchasing another bike within the next two years—and that’s good news when you’re in the market to sell. Harley CEO Matthew Levatich has called used motorcycles “a great entry-point” for new riders and those coveted millennial motorcycle enthusiasts.
When it does come time to sell, use these tips to maximize the value you get for your used motorcycle—no matter the market.
Get your motorcycle in top shape
Cleaning your ride might sound obvious, but it’s crucial to commanding the best price from prospective buyers. Forego a typical wipe-down in favor of a deep cleaning, paying attention to often-overlooked areas: grime under your seat, surface rust clinging to metal or chrome, buildup around your battery and more. (For a full rundown of how to clean your motorcycle, check out this article.)
Some other tune-up tips:
If your bike could use some touch-ups, make sure the paint color matches as closely as possible. Otherwise, it could be a detriment rather than a selling point. Here is a company that I have been using since 1995 who specializes in motorcycle touch up paint .
If your paint has minor scratches for is sun-faded, try some rubbing compound to reclaim that original finish. Here is an amazing product called Farecla that not many riders know about, but one that is used by professional body shops . It’s not cheap, but the results are worth the cost.
Make sure your bike is running properly, and capture it in your sales video. (More on that below.)
Make sure you do all the above before taking the photos for your listing. You’d be surprised how much high-quality product photos can build trust and influence a buying decision.
Organize your service history records
Savvy buyers will undoubtedly ask for service history records—and if they don’t, they’re likely not serious about buying. Likewise, having all your documents ready will show buyers you’re serious about the sale. Minimize back-and-forth and maximize your sale prospects by gathering your service history records before listing your bike. If you don’t have a organizer for your documents, but one and include photos of them in your listing.
If you’re meeting the buyer in person, you can bring your record organizer but when listing your bike online, you can upload your documents to a folder on Dropbox or Google Drive and then simply
share the link on your listing. With this detail, you’re sure to impress your prospective
buyers by showing them all the ways you’ve meticulously cared for your motorcycle over the years.
Include (or chase down) an original owner’s manual
Many buyers want to see the original owner’s manual when deciding whether to pull the trigger. If you have lost the original or in any case simply don’t have one, consider purchasing one on eBay, which has a surprising number of originals at good prices.
Get savvy with your marketing
In today’s buying landscape, it’s not enough to simply park your bike in your neighborhood with a “For Sale” sign and hope a buyer comes by. The name of the game today is online listings. Here are a few market places that might help you get top dollar for your bike. Autotrader (motorcycles only) , Motorcycle Classics, and of course Cycle Trader. For local listings you might even try Oodle, Pennysaver, or one of my favorites, Offerup. Local listing platforms usually have lower or zero fees to sell.
Remember, your looking for that one person who will fall in love with your bike and ultimately pay more than anyone else for the chance to own it. Emotional attachment is a valuable factor for any purchase, so make sure you reach as many people as possible with your listing. Take advantage of all the listing opportunities that you can, and use “featured” listings when available to help boost exposure.
Because your listing’s content largely determines who will find it, it’s crucial to apply online marketing best practices. (Don’t worry; you don’t have to be a digital influencer to implement them.) Give your listing a title that’s descriptive but also general enough to show up in a variety of related searches. Take a look at the tags other listings are using and make sure yours uses them, too. And be sure that your description answers these common questions honestly:
How long have you owned the bike?
What’s the status of the title and registration?
What modifications, if any, have you made? (More on that later)
How often do you get maintenance? Who handles your maintenance and repairs?
Round out your online ad with high-quality images and video; all can be captured with your smartphone using these simple tips. (If you think a video isn’t really necessary, consider this statistic: 73% of consumers are more likely to buy after watching a video about the item being sold.)
Your first image will likely show up as a thumbnail for mobile shoppers, so be mindful about snapping a shot that makes sense for that format. Use natural lighting when possible, take shots from many angles and choose a neutral or de-cluttered background so your motorcycle is what stands out. For the video, hold your smartphone horizontally and capture crucial details like the look and sound of your motorcycle starting up.
Document and tout your customizations
According to Foremost Insurance’s 2015 Motorcycle Market Facts Study, 33% of owners put $100 or more into customizing their bikes, with the average amount weighing in at well over $3,000. If those customizations improve performance or have wide appeal, that could be a good thing for your sale. If they’re unique or only appeal to someone with very particular tastes, keep that in mind when pricing your motorcycle.
Because customizations can have a major impact on your bike’s value, secure the original invoices to help assess their real worth. Like your other documentation, this paperwork should ease a buyer’s mind and show them you’re ready to sell. If you still have the original components that you replaced, include those to sweeten the deal for your buyer.
Take a hard look at your accessories
The reality is that you might get more for your accessories selling them separately than including them in your motorcycle sale itself. Do your research and make the smart choice about whether you’ll wind up with more in your wallet if you sell your accessories on their own or with your bike.
Offer to ship the motorcycle to the buyer
With the rise of eCommerce, today’s shoppers are less hesitant about making major purchases online. Although it’s always important to keep your eyes wide open when you’re not dealing locally, opening up sales to out-of-state riders can also significantly boost your chances of finding the right buyer. If you’re open to nationwide buyers, consider offering to ship the motorcycle to its new owner.
At first glance, this may sound prohibitively expensive, especially if the buyer is a thousand miles away. But with the right shipping partner, transporting your used motorcycle can be surprisingly affordable—and a key perk that seals the deal.
If you’re offering to ship your motorcycle to the buyer, be smart. Get a free transparent quote so you know exactly how much it will cost to get your former ride from Point A to Point B. Consider wrapping that cost into the price tag of your bike so that it’s a win-win for you and the new owner.
Ready to sell your used bike online? Let a trusted partner like Motorcycle Shippers get your motorcycle to its new owner affordably and efficiently. A shipping offer just might be the boost you need to find the perfect new home for your motorcycle.
Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
Why I’m Sharing My Entrepreneur Story
For years, I’ve been asked a question that business owners hear a lot: What made you start your company? I’ve told the simplified story at local Entrepreneurs’ Organization events here in Orange County and have shared it with customers from time to time. But I have never publicized what really started it all. I guess I didn’t value my journey at a young age as much as I do now. Recently, I was compelled to share the story more widely in a series of articles published on Medium.
Whether you’re interested in how a farm kid from Idaho started a motorcycle business in Southern California or are a rider who can relate to a dramatic crash story, I hope you’ll walk away from these articles with the feeling that you know me, and our philosophy here at Motorcycle Shippers, just a little bit better.
The first article in that series, which I aptly named “It All Started With a Crash,” tells the story of the motorcycle accident that indirectly led me to start Motorcycle Shippers more than 25 years ago. (That article was published today on Medium; you can read it here.) In Parts 2 and 3 , I dive deeper into how I started Motorcycle Shippers and my approach to running the business amid the changes in the motorcycle industry.
And if you happen to be an entrepreneur yourself, I hope it compels you to share the ups and downs of growing your company. Running a business isn’t easy. But just like riders, entrepreneurs always manage to get through the bumps in the road—even if they’re as serious as the crash I had 25 years ago.
Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
Where the Trump-Harley Feud Stands Now
Summer may feel like ages ago, but the feud that President Trump ignited with Harley-Davidson in June is still smoldering. Although the president has shifted his Twitter focus away from Harley (at least for now), the repercussions of the scuffle, the trade war and the motorcycle market dynamics have created a perfect storm for Harley-Davidson. (It’s a situation so stark that a recent Fortune Magazine headline reads, “Harley-Davidson Profit Wiped Out by Trump Tariffs.”)
Where does the Trump-Harley feud stand, and has the iconic motorcycle brand’s bottom line really been decimated by the dispute? Here’s the latest on Harley’s position in the motorcycle world and what factors are contributing to it.
In September, Harley-Davidson celebrated its 115th anniversary with an event that drew 150,000 bikers to Milwaukee. The President had recently recommended that riders boycott the iconic brand, and unsurprisingly, reporters were in attendance to gauge the Trump-Harley fallout. One reporter summed it up this way: Although the riders were indifferent about Harley’s response to the feud, they loved Trump.
That same month, bikers halfway across the country shared a much different sentiment with USA Today, pledging their loyalty to an iconic American brand. And in September, just months after Trump called a Harley boycott a “great idea,” the U.S. Secret Service put in an order for new Harleys with sidecars. Their justification? Secret Service mechanics already know how to service Harley-Davidsons; despite the political perceptions, the switch wasn’t worth the time or money.
Meanwhile, a key Harley competitor, Indian, saw a 4% surge in sales this fall. Following Harley’s decision to move some production overseas, Indian dealers reported a significant uptick in HOG trade-ins. Where does all this leave Harley-Davidson?
It’s impossible to fully gauge the biker community’s response to the Trump-Harley feud that exploded over the summer. But where the market is concerned, the impact has been crystal clear. Harley’s retail sales dropped 10% in the final three months of 2018. The company barely broke even in its most recently posted earnings
Mainstream media headlines were quick to cite the impact of the Trump tariffs. “Once Lauded by Trump, Harley-Davidson is Now Sputtering,” read one CBS News piece from last month.
What’s really to blame?
Are the Trump tariffs the only reason for the brand’s decline? You can easily point to the lack of enthusiasm among Millennial riders, and you wouldn’t be out of line to cite the rise in electric motorcycles as a threat to the Harleys of the past. Harley’s LiveWire electric motorcycle hits stores in August, with a cool $30K price tag.) Although it’s not the only factor making Harley sputter, the Trump tariffs have undoubtedly worsened the situation. The company told the SEC that the new EU tariffs added $2,000 to the cost of each motorcycle.
Keep in mind that it’s not all doom and gloom for the motorcycle market. Recent research shows that women riders have hit record numbers; they now account for 19% of the total U.S. rider population. And innovations like the ones from CES are becoming more prevalent in the motorcycles hitting dealerships, which could help entice more Millennials to embrace the ride. Still, Harley’s executives predict 2019 will be another tough year for the brand.
Harley estimates that it will ship between 217,000 and 220,000 bikes to the U.S. this year—one of Harley’s lowest shipment rates since 2010. Between already-declining sales and the continuing trade war, the situation begs the question: Will extravagant anniversary bike rallies in Milwaukee soon be a thing of the past?
Where do you stand on the Trump-Harley feud? How important is it for your motorcycle (and its parts) to be manufactured in the U.S.?
Ed Merati, Director of Logistics and lifetime motorcycle enthusiast, garage guru. [email protected]
Top 7 Motorcycle Winterizing Questions
It has turned into a seriously cold winter. The Polar Vortex that swept across the Midwest and East Coast brought, as one professor of atmospheric science put it, “temperatures dropping rapidly to values that are dangerous to human life and damaging to buildings and infrastructures.”
We all know what that means for us and our families: extra layers, limited outdoors time and lots of hot drinks. But what does all this extreme weather do to your motorcycle? From corrosion and rust spots to a dead battery, motorcycles feel the effects of cold weather and snow just like we do—especially if they’re sitting idle for months at a time.
Maybe you’ve never winterized your bike before to get it ready for storage. Or maybe you do winterize but aren’t sure if your techniques will stand up to this winter’s freezing temperatures. Either way, we’ve compiled this quick list of common questions and answers to help you keep your motorcycle in perfect form until spring comes back around.
(And in case you’ve got an adventurous streak like this rider trekking across Siberia right now on his Yamaha XT660Z, we’ll also provide a few links to essential cold-weather riding gear.)
1) Do I need to winterize my motorcycle even if I’m going to be riding it before spring?
The word “winterizing” might bring to mind months on end devoid of riding, during which your motorcycle sits hibernating in your garage. But even if you’re going to be riding during the winter, you should still follow some winterizing best practices to keep your motorcycle running at top shape in cold weather conditions.
If you were putting your bike away for the winter, you would be replacing all your fluids (more on that later). But just because you’ll be winter riding doesn’t mean you can skip this step entirely. Make sure to maintain your fluids—especially your coolant, which can become acidic quickly in the cold weather.
Wash and wax your motorcycle. Dirt, grease and water spots can affect your bike’s finishes; an all-over cleaning with a motorcycle-specific wash product will help prevent corrosion. Once you’ve washed and dried your ride, wax it. This will help repel salt water that’s common on the road in the winter—and that could otherwise cause corrosion.
Treat your fuel every time you come back in from a cold-weather ride. (Keep reading for more on this point.)
Another important note: If you’re serious about braving cold weather on your next ride, make sure to do so safely. This Popular Mechanics article outlines top-rated cold weather gear, from a dry pack to boots to a Carhartt helmet liner we won’t leave home without. You’ll find a road-tested set of heated grips and even a full-body heat suit in this list from Motorcycle.com.
2) What should I do if I’m storing my bike outside?
In an ideal world, every motorcycle will be stored carefully inside a heated garage with a breathable, waterproof dust cover. But not everyone has the luxury of a garage or shed. If you fall into the latter camp, then follow these tips:
Bring the battery and seats inside; these are the parts of your bike most affected by cold weather. Storing your seat indoors and conditioning it with vinyl protector will help prevent it from cracking. To keep your battery in good shape between now and spring, hook your battery to maintainer/charger quickly via quick connector (watch how it’s done in this Revzilla video).
Even though it might feel counter-intuitive, if your motorcycle is staying outdoors during the winter, it could be best to keep it uncovered. A cover that’s out in the elements can do more harm than good, collecting moisture and pinning it against your motorcycle. (And remember, moisture often equals corrosion.) Note that the same goes for bikes stored indoors: if your cover isn’t breathable and shifts around rather than staying secure, you’re better leaving your motorcycle uncovered.
Whether storing your motorcycle indoors or outdoors, avoid using a tarp as a cover. Although it may be conveniently sitting around your house, it’s just not designed to get the job done. Tarps trap moisture where as a quality motorcycle cover is designed to ventilate.
3) Is it better to empty or fill up my motorcycle’s fuel system?
After you’ve taken your motorcycle for a ride, one of your first major steps should be to treat your fuel. You likely fall into one or two camps on this issue: either you’re the type of person who empties the fuel system completely or the one who insists on filling it up.
But which is best for your bike?
If you have a fuel-injected bike, filling it up is a whole lot easier. And it’s also effective: by filling up your fuel system, you drive out any air space and minimize the possibility of water. (Water and oxygen are two major reasons why your fuel gets gummy.) Because an empty tank is also vulnerable to corrosion, we recommend the fill-up method.
Once you’ve filled up your fuel system, add some treatment to top it off completely. Then, run the motor so the treated fuel makes it all the way through your motorcycle’s intakes and injectors.
Pro tip: While your bike is still warm, wax the chain. This gets the chain lubricated more easily and ensures it’s protected from salt and rust.
4) What fluids do I need to replace?
Don’t leave old, broken-down oil in your motorcycle all winter long. Make it a priority to change your oil; a winter-weight oil like a 5W30 will make it easier to start up your bike when spring rolls around.
Also check your coolant system to make sure there’s enough anti-freeze. This is crucial for any rider, but especially if you’re not going to be using your bike until the weather gets warmer.
5) Is fogging oil worth the time and money?
If you’re truly not going to be riding your motorcycle until spring, consider fogging the cylinders—aka, lubricating the inside of your motor with fogging oil, a heavy lubricant that comes in the form of an aerosol spray. Fogging oil runs about $5 per can, so it’s likely worth the extra few bucks to keep the expensive parts of your bike in good shape. But you can also use motor oil instead.
6) Do I really need to put cardboard under the tires?
After you’ve finished filling up your tank, replacing your fluids and giving your motorcycle a full wash and wax, it’s time for the finishing touches: adding a cover and, according to many, cardboard under the wheels. It may seem unnecessary, but putting something underneath your tires—carpet squares will also work—can keep the moisture in your floors from affecting the rubber.
You can also try a bike stand, which brings the added bonus of keeping the weight off the tires. If you’re going the carpet or cardboard route, rotate the wheels every few weeks to prevent flat spots.
7) Do I need to ride my motorcycle once per week until spring?
This is a question you hear a lot, especially when Mother Nature makes a weekly ride difficult. Although regular use is good for your motorcycle, if you commit to a weekly ride during the winter, make sure it’s more than just a quick spin. You need to run your motorcycle to its full operating temperature to cook off moisture and recharge your battery. Otherwise, that quick start can be hard on your motor and moisture could end up where you don’t want it.
Although every rider has their own winterizing routine, the goal should always be to keep your motorcycle in top shape during the winter months. This not only keeps your bike running better for longer, but also helps you get right back to riding as soon as the warm weather rolls back around.
Feel the need for a warm weather ride? Ship it to motorcycle to Florida or California for winter get away! Get a free quote on our world-class motorcycle shipping service.
Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
In a motorcycle market where competition is more heated than ever, brand loyalty is the Holy Grail. And perhaps no group has been more unwavering in its brand loyalty than American law enforcement. Since Harley-Davidson delivered its first police motorcycle to the Detroit Police Department in 1908, Harley has been a fixture among the nation’s police force—helping officers arrive at the scene quickly, maneuver with ease and go where four wheels simply won’t allow.
But now, as the CHiPS era fades from our memory, a new kid on the block is changing the police motorcycle game. Enter Zero. If there’s any indication that electric motorcycles are gaining mainstream appeal, look no further than police departments, which are embracing Zero bikes in record numbers.
A shifting police motorcycle landscape
Since the first motorcycle police unit was launched in Berkeley, California in 1911, motorcycles have been a fixture for forces across America. Harley-Davidson plays an undeniable leading role in that long history. It shipped 20,000 bikes overseas during World War I to help soldiers dispatch wartime messages faster. When the war ended, a surplus in motorcycles made their wider adoption on police forces a no-brainer. By the 1920s, more than 3,000 police departments were using Harleys.
Fast-forward to 2019, and police departments still swear by motorcycles to help them go where cars can’t, accelerate more powerfully than four-wheeled vehicles and weave through traffic with ease. Although a lack of storage can make them unsuitable for certain tasks and hours of riding can bring the inevitable discomfort, motorcycles are being used for much more than traffic stops and parade details.
Nearly 80% of today’s police motorcycles are Harleys. But as the needs of the modern police force change, so has its ride of choice. More than 100 law enforcement agencies have begun using Zero electric motorcycles, and signs show the trend isn’t slowing down any time soon.
Why Zero? As one officer explains, the fuel-free bike lets officers accomplish things that traditional gas cruisers don’t. The Zero model used by the Clovis PD, the Zero DSP, can handle on- and off-road terrain with ease, is exhaust-free and needs virtually no maintenance. An added bonus? Its whisper-quiet system lets officers sneak up on suspects a lot more efficiently than the rumbling models of the past.
Three years since tackling the police market with force, the Santa Cruz-based Zero is adding about two new law enforcement agencies per month. It’s now becoming the more agile ride of choice for units in both the United States and our neighbor to the north, Canada.
Still, the electric motorcycle has its drawbacks. A 90 mph highway chase, for example, will run down the Zero DSRP battery in just 60 miles. That’s just one reason why the Michigan State Police Precision Driving Unit told Fast Company that its highway patrols will stick with their current rides. The result is that rather than replace Harleys on a force, the Zero is finding a niche as another tool—one that falls somewhere between a Harley and a bicycle.
More electric motorcycles on the horizon
In the exceedingly crowded electric motorcycle landscape, Zero is an undeniable leader. Although niche—the brand only sells between 2,000 and 10,000 bikes per year internationally, compared to Harley’s 168,240 in the U.S. alone—Zero has maintained an impressive 40% YOY growth rate. That matches the overall forecasted growth for the electric motorcycle space, which one leading market research firm puts at around 41% by 2021.
Zero’s extensive 2019 lineup demonstrates that it’s continuing to invest big in the electric motorcycle space. The Zero S and DS models are getting a 35% power boost and a top speed increase of 8%. But while Zero is building on its initial success, other motorcycle companies are snapping at its heels—including Harley itself.
Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire, coming with the promise that “the loudest sound you hear will be your heart racing,” launches this year. Brutus is now offering a law enforcement option of its full-size Brutus V9 bike. And in the dirt bike arena, Swedish brand Cake is marketing an electric bike about half as heavy as a typical motocross bike, with a 15kW motor, a 52-volt battery and three “power modes” aimed to satisfy beginners and experienced riders alike.
It’s yet to be seen what technologies motorcycle brands like Yamaha and BMW showcase at the annual Consumer Electronics Show next week. But one thing is for sure: in an increasingly techie motorcycle landscape, electric motorcycles are developing a niche all their own.
Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
With a nasty snowstorm sweeping across the Midwest and East Coast, many of us are already wistfully counting down the days until spring. But for riders, the relief from bone-chilling winter weather is just one reason to get excited for the months ahead. Another major reason? Daytona Bike Week 2019.
Since 1937, hundreds of thousands of riders have flocked to Daytona’s sandy shores each spring for a week packed with socializing, perusing new bikes and equipment, eating good food and, of course, tons of riding. Last year’s event drew a jaw-dropping 500,000 motorcycle enthusiasts, and bike week organizers expect this year to be the biggest one yet.
Daytona Bike Week 2019 is scheduled for March 8 to 17. That means it’s time to finalize your plans for the most exciting motorcycle event of the year. Here’s a quick guide to help you rev up for Daytona Bike Week 2019.
The 78th Annual Daytona Bike Week
Dates: March 8 to 17, 2019
Location: As with previous years, Main Street in Daytona Beach is the epicenter of the action, which goes from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. But there’s much more where that came from, as events are scheduled throughout Volusia, Flagler and other neighboring counties. The major races, including the Daytona 200, are held at Daytona International Speedway (1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114).
Accommodations: Back in November, organizers reported a record number of advance registrations at area hotels. Many were already sold out come the holidays, which means it’s time to move fast if you haven’t already booked your hotel for the event.
Food: You’ll find plenty of food trucks and other food vendors at the main event. But if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, explore the thriving food scene that Daytona Beach has to offer. Here’s a list of six biker favorites to whet your appetite.
Events: Daytona Bike Week is filled with more action than we could possibly list here. But as a starting point, check out these events at the speedway and along Main Street.
Cost: Most events, activities and vendors are free. But if you want to attend the Daytona 200 or the other major races at the Daytona International Speedway, you’ll need to purchase a ticket. (Purchase your ticket for the Daytona 200 here.)
Bike Week Welcome Center: Have questions once you’re on the ground? Visit the event’s official welcome center, located at Riverfront Park on Beach Street south of the News-Journal Center performing arts complex in downtown Daytona Beach.
Rides: And last but definitely not least, take the opportunity to explore the many rides in and around Daytona. Aside from the iconic ride along Daytona Beach, you can try The Loop, a 22-mile scenic ride that will immerse you in Florida’s natural beauty and its beautiful weather.
You can also ride to St. Augustine (55 miles north), Orlando (60 miles northeast), Jacksonville (88 miles north), Tampa (150 miles southwest) and beyond. With Daytona Beach as a starting point, the options are endless.
Clint Lawrence, founder of Motorcycle Shippers. Helping give riders more freedom to enjoy the bikes they love. [email protected]
This week, more than 182,000 tech enthusiasts from around the globe flocked to Las Vegas for CES, the world’s most important tech show. Motorcycle Shippers was right there with them, trekking the conference’s 2.7 million square feet of exhibits, interactive displays and other experiences in search of the latest and greatest in motorcycle innovation.
Given that LiveWire preorders are now open, it’s no surprise that Harley-Davidson had its first all-electric motorcycle front and center at CES—even if its two other electric bike concepts were actually a lot more exciting. Meanwhile, the helicopter company Bell dominated the showroom floor—literally!—with its massive Nexus air taxi. And while self-driving cars were an unavoidable trend at the show, there’s no denying the excitement surrounding flying cars, Hyundai’s walking car and electric scooters at CES 2019.
Here are a few standout motorcycle technologies from the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show—some available now, and one that hasn’t hit shelves just yet.
AR is coming to your motorcycle helmet
Head-up AR display options have already been gaining steam in the auto industry, and one startup is now taking a bold step toward bringing a similar experience to motorcycle riders everywhere. Dubbed the “first AR motorcycle helmet,” LiveMap’s prototype projects a virtual image 20 meters ahead, directly from a small screen on your visor. The idea, the startup told us from the CES showroom floor, is to let riders see navigation and driving indicators in front of them while keeping their eyes on the road—not looking down at a navigation panel.
With a built-in camera light sensor, headphones and optics mic, the LiveMap helmet is applying the best of AR and integration to the world of rider safety and navigation. Other features worth noting? Customizable alerts and calls, a built-in camera, robust audio and voice controls, and visibility technology that keeps the helmet’s image looking crisp no matter what Mother Nature has in store for your ride.
This one might not be ready to hit shelves just yet, and the price tag is estimated to be a hefty $1999. Still, the LiveMap moto helmet could be a significant sign of what’s to come in the world of motorcycle accessories. (: BMW and Skully both reportedly have augmented reality helmets in the works.)
Hovercrafts and motorcycles collide
Another awe-inducing model on the showroom floor was the Hoversurf Hoverbike. As its name implies, it’s essentially a motorcycle that hovers or flies. Hoversurf wasn’t permitted to fly the Hoverbike S3 2019 indoors during the conference—no surprise there—but it did do a mini demo showing just how powerfully its flying motorcycle booted up.
At more than 250 pounds, the single-seater can fly up to 16 feet above ground level at speeds up to 6 mph. But keep in mind that, much like electric motorcycles, the Hoverbike is no match for the duration that a traditional motorcycle allows. Depending on the weight of the driver, the model can only be airborne for 10 to 25 minutes at a time.
If the Hoverbike seems lightyears from reality, think again: Last year, the Dubai Police Force tested out hover-motorcycles to help its officers arrive to the scene without suffering in traffic. But then again, this is the same police force that has pledged to replace 25% of its officers with robots by 2030.
The Hoverbike S3 2019 is fully launched and could be yours for a cool $150,000.
The Niken steals the show, again
It’s no surprise that a brand selling 5.4 million motorcycles annually had a supersized presence at CES. Fitting in right among the most tech-forward companies of the era (think: Google and Microsoft), Yamaha Motors took the opportunity to showcase eye-catching innovation: its widely lauded three-wheel Niken motorcycle and the Tritown three-wheel scooter concept, plus demos of its unmanned helicopter and AI technologies.
You may have heard that Yamaha acquired Brudeli, a three-wheel motorcycle manufacturer, last year. Given that news, and the buzz surrounding the Niken ever since its debuts at the Tokyo Motor Show and Europe’s EICMA, it’s no surprise that Yamaha made the Niken the centerpiece of its sizable CES booth. Joining it was the Tritown scooter, which employs the same three-wheel system to let the rider, as the brand puts it, “just glide.”
What motorcycle technology are you most excited about in 2019? Do you think technology is enhancing or taking away from the experience of the ride?
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok
chain lubricated more easily and ensures it’s protected from salt and rust.
![3 Must-See Motorcycle Technologies from CES 2019 [Video]](https://motorcycleshippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/hover-bike-672x372.jpg)
