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Tava Reynolds 6/4/23 As a beginner motorcyclist, one of the most important aspects of your new journey on two wheels is ensuring you have the right gear. The allure of the open road is enticing, but it's crucial to prioritize your safety. Here, we'll cover the essential gear every new rider should consider. Head-to-Toe Protection First and foremost, a quality helmet is a non-negotiable piece of gear. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries in the event of an accident. Look for a full-face helmet that is DOT, ECE, or Snell certified. These helmets provide the best protection and have been tested to meet rigorous safety standards. Remember, a good fit is key—too loose, and the helmet could come off in a crash, too tight, and you'll be uncomfortable on longer rides. Next, a sturdy motorcycle jacket is crucial. Jackets specifically designed for motorcycling are made with materials like leather or abrasion-resistant textiles and often come equipped with armor in high-impact areas like the shoulders and elbows. They not only protect you in a crash but also from the elements. We recommending checking out Bohn Armor. When choosing a jacket, consider the climate and weather conditions you'll be riding in. Many jackets feature removable liners and vents for adaptability in different weather conditions.Motorcycle pants are equally important. Just like a good motorcycle jacket, pants made specifically for motorcycling provide protection in the event of a crash and from the elements. Look for pants with reinforcement or armor in the knees and hips, and consider the material—leather, textiles, or Kevlar each have their pros and cons. Hands and Feet Matter, Too Your hands are often the first thing to hit the ground in a crash, so protecting them is essential. Motorcycle gloves should have reinforcements in the palms and knuckles. They should also offer a good grip even in wet conditions. Again, consider the type of weather you'll be riding in—some gloves are better suited for cold weather, while others offer improved ventilation for hot conditions. Last but certainly not least, don't overlook the importance of proper motorcycle boots. These should be sturdy enough to protect against foot and ankle injuries and offer good traction. Motorcycle boots come in different styles, from sporty to cruiser-oriented, so you'll be able to find a pair that matches your bike and your personal style. The Final Word Starting your motorcycle journey can be an exciting time. While it's easy to get caught up in the thrill of it all, remember that safety should always come first. Invest in quality gear and wear it every time you ride. After all, the best rides are those where you arrive at your destination safe and sound. As the saying goes, "dress for the slide, not for the ride." Happy and safe riding to all the new motorcyclists out there!

J.J. Turbo 6/3/23 A good motorcycle hoodie to wear under a vest should have a combination of comfort, style, and practical features. Here's what you should look for: 1. Material: Motorcycle hoodies are typically made from heavyweight cotton or cotton blend fabrics that provide a comfortable and breathable layer. Some may also feature materials like Kevlar or aramid fibers for added abrasion resistance. 2. Fit: The hoodie should fit well, but not too tightly, to allow for freedom of movement. It's essential to find a balance between a snug fit, which will keep the hoodie from flapping in the wind, and enough room to comfortably fit over your base layers. 3. Features: Look for features that add convenience and safety. This could include things like thumb holes in the cuffs to keep the sleeves from riding up, a zipper garage to prevent the zipper from scratching your neck or chin, and a fully adjustable hood that can fit over a helmet if necessary. Some motorcycle hoodies might also have pockets for armor inserts or reinforced areas for added protection. 4. Style: While safety and comfort are paramount, style is also important. The hoodie should complement your overall biker style. Many motorcyclists prefer classic black, but there are plenty of options available in different colors and with various graphics or logos. 5. Weather Resistance: Depending on your location and the time of year, you might want to consider a hoodie with some level of weather resistance. Some motorcycle hoodies come with a water-resistant finish to help keep you dry in light rain. Remember, when riding, safety should be your primary concern, so it's worth considering a hoodie designed specifically for motorcyclists, with features like abrasion-resistant materials and space for protective armor. Now that we know the 5 keys to a great hoodie, we asked our friends at Legendary USA, how they make their motorcycle hoodie. They said that their Legendary Brawler Motorcycle Hoodie from Legendary USA is a stellar addition to any motorcyclist's wardrobe. Crafted from a perfect blend of 60% cotton and 40% polyester, it boasts an 8.3oz/yd fabric weight, striking the right balance between durability and comfort. They say the super-soft feel of the material, combined with a warm fleece inner, makes it ideal for all-day wear, whether you're out on a ride or just running errands around town. The proprietary artwork adds a unique and stylish touch, setting this hoodie apart from others in the market. However, the Brawler Motorcycle Hoodie isn't just about looks. It's packed with practical features designed with the motorcyclist in mind. As we mentioned before, not being constrained is an important feature, so their active stretch side panels provide enhanced field of motion, allowing for increased mobility. This feature is crucial when on a ride, ensuring your movements aren't restricted while maintaining comfort. The insulating double-layer drawstring hood keeps your head and neck warm, a welcome feature during those chillier rides. A classic large front kangaroo pocket not only adds to the hoodie's style but also provides ample storage space, doubling up as a hand warmer. The 8.3 oz cotton/poly composition is not only warm and comfortable but is also ideal for everyday wear. The Brawler Hoodie is available in several colors, including Black and Coyote Camo. They say this allows you to choose one that best fits your style or even to have a few options to mix and match with your motorcycle gear.

Kelly Hogart 6/1/23 Motorcycle whips, also known as get back whips or biker whips, are a type of decoration that is hung from the brake or clutch lever of a motorcycle. They typically consist of a length of braided leather with a large, often metal, clasp on one end and sometimes a tassel or additional decorative elements on the other. There are a few reasons why riders might attach a whip to their motorcycle: Visibility: One practical reason to use a motorcycle whip is to increase visibility. The whip can catch the attention of other drivers and make the motorcycle more noticeable, especially if it is brightly colored. Tradition and symbolism: The whip is also a symbol of the motorcycle club culture. Traditionally, the leather used in the whip was taken from a club member's old jacket or boots, and the length of the whip was said to represent the distance a rider could be expected to travel for a fellow member. Expression of personal style: Like other motorcycle accessories, whips can be a way to express personal style or to coordinate with a bike's color scheme. It's important to note that in some places, the use of motorcycle whips may be regulated or even prohibited due to concerns about their potential misuse as a weapon. It's advisable for riders to check local laws before attaching a whip to their motorcycle. Motorcycle whips, or get back whips, are often seen as more of a symbol of motorcycle culture rather than a symbol of a weapon. These whips were traditionally made from the lacing of a club member's old jacket, or their boot laces, and they were used as a symbolic representation of that biker's commitment to their club or brotherhood. However, the substantial length of leather and the often heavy, metal clasps could potentially be used as a weapon in a pinch, which is why they are sometimes viewed that way. In fact, in some areas, there may be laws or regulations against having them on a motorcycle due to this potential for use as a weapon. As with all symbols and traditions, interpretations can vary widely. While some might see a motorcycle whip as a potential weapon, many bikers view it as a symbol of camaraderie and commitment to the biker lifestyle. As always, it's important for motorcyclists to respect local laws and regulations when choosing how to accessorize their bikes. Check out First Manufacturers Get Back Whips.

J.J. Turbo 5/31/23 Charging a motorcycle battery is a fairly straightforward process, but it does require some care to do it properly and safely. Here's a step-by-step guide: 1. Safety First: Before you begin, make sure you're wearing protective gear, including safety glasses and gloves. Batteries contain acid that can be harmful if it comes into contact with your skin or eyes. 2. Remove the Battery: It's usually a good idea to remove the battery from the motorcycle before charging it. This isn't always necessary, but it can prevent any potential damage to the motorcycle's electrical system. Disconnect the negative cable first (usually black), then the positive cable (usually red). 3. Set Up the Charger: Plug in your battery charger, but don't turn it on yet. Make sure the charger is set to the correct voltage (usually 12 volts for most motorcycle batteries). 4. Connect the Charger: Connect the positive charger clamp to the positive battery terminal and the negative charger clamp to the negative terminal. 5. Turn on the Charger: Now you can turn on the charger. It's best to charge the battery slowly, so if your charger has a speed setting, set it to slow or low. A slow charge is more effective at getting the battery fully charged and helps to prolong its life. 6. Monitor the Charge: Keep an eye on the charger's ammeter or indicator light to see when the battery is fully charged. Most modern chargers will stop charging automatically when the battery is full. If your charger doesn't have this feature, you'll need to keep a close eye on it and disconnect it when the battery is fully charged. Overcharging can damage the battery. 7. Disconnect the Charger: When the battery is fully charged, turn off the charger before disconnecting the clamps. This can prevent any potential sparks. Disconnect the positive clamp first, then the negative. 8. Reinstall the Battery: You can now reinstall the battery. Connect the positive cable first, then the negative. Always refer to your battery's and charger's instruction manuals for specific guidance, as procedures can vary. If your battery frequently needs charging, it might be nearing the end of its life or your motorcycle might have a problem that's causing excessive battery drain.

Randy Burd 5/30/23 Motorcycle gloves serve several purposes: they protect your hands in case of an accident, shield them from the elements, and provide better grip on the handlebars. Goatskin and deerskin are two types of leather commonly used in motorcycle gloves, each offering distinct advantages. Goatskin Gloves: Goatskin is a highly durable material, making it a top choice for many motorcycle gloves. It's known for its high level of abrasion resistance, which can provide excellent protection in case of a slide or accident. Goatskin also tends to be more flexible and softer than other types of leather, which means goatskin gloves often require less break-in time and offer good dexterity right off the shelf. This can be a huge benefit for motorcyclists, who need a good feel for their controls. Furthermore, goatskin leather has high natural oil content, which makes it more water-resistant than other types of leather. We think that our friends at Legendary USA have a great affordable made in USA pair called Legendary 'Bad Billy' short wrist goat skin motorcycle gloves. Deerskin Gloves: Deerskin, on the other hand, is revered for its exceptional softness and comfort. Like goatskin, it's flexible and requires little break-in time. However, where deerskin really shines is in its ability to remain supple even after getting wet and drying. Most leathers can become stiff or brittle after they've been soaked and dried, but deerskin maintains its flexibility. This makes deerskin gloves a great choice for riders who frequently ride in changing weather conditions. Moreover, deerskin is known for its insulating properties, making deerskin gloves warmer than goatskin ones, which could be beneficial for cold weather riding. In comparison, both goatskin and deerskin offer superior comfort and flexibility, making them excellent choices for motorcycle gloves. Your choice between the two may come down to your specific needs and preferences. If durability and water resistance are your top priorities, goatskin might be the better choice. But if you value softness, insulation, and the ability to withstand repeated wetting and drying, deerskin could be the way to go. Regardless of the material you choose, it's important to remember that the quality of the glove isn't determined by the type of leather alone. The construction, stitching, fit, and protective features of the glove also play significant roles in its overall performance and safety. Always look for gloves that meet your individual needs and riding style.

Rodney McRickel 5/28/23 "Motorcycle bells," also known as "Gremlin bells," "Biker bells," "Ride bells," "Spirit bells," or "Guardian bells," are a common tradition among many bikers, and "Bravo Bells" appears to be a brand that makes such bells. These small bells are typically made of brass or pewter and are hung from the bottom of the motorcycle, usually on the frame or near the front forks. According to the legend, the bell is said to protect the rider from evil road spirits or gremlins, which are mythical creatures that cause mechanical problems and bad luck. The bell is supposed to capture these spirits and the ringing drives them insane, causing them to release their grip and fall onto the road (creating potholes). The tradition further states that the protective properties of the bell are doubled when it is purchased and installed by a friend or loved one as a gift. It's a token of care and good wishes for safe travel. While the gremlin bell is rooted in superstition, it's a charming custom that adds a bit of personal touch and represents the camaraderie and mutual care within the motorcycle community. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Bravo Bells is not a term I've been trained on, so it could be a new brand or a specific product line. It would be best to research it for the most up-to-date information. Find them at Legendary USA.

Tara Reynolds 5/29/23 Staying properly hydrated is important for anyone engaging in physical activity, especially during the hot summer months, and motorcycle riding is no exception. Here are several reasons why it's crucial to hydrate with water during motorcycle riding in the summer: 1. Maintaining Physical Stamina: Riding a motorcycle requires physical effort and can be taxing on the body. Staying hydrated helps maintain your stamina, keeps your muscles working properly, and prevents fatigue. 2. Regulating Body Temperature: Your body uses water to help regulate your body temperature. In hot weather, your body sweats to cool itself down, and this sweat is made up primarily of water. If you're not replacing the water you're losing through sweat, you can become overheated, which could lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. 3. Ensuring Mental Clarity: Dehydration can affect your cognitive functions, including your attention, memory, and motor coordination. For motorcycle riders, this can be incredibly dangerous. Staying hydrated helps ensure that your mental clarity and reflexes stay sharp, which is critical for safe riding. 4. Preventing Dehydration Symptoms: Dehydration can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. These symptoms can affect your ability to ride and enjoy your trip. To stay properly hydrated, it's important to drink water before you start riding and to take regular breaks to drink more, especially on long rides. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink, as thirst is a sign that you're already becoming dehydrated. Also, be aware that drinks with caffeine or alcohol can dehydrate you, so it's best to stick with water or other hydrating beverages. Some riders find that wearing a hydration pack, which allows you to drink through a tube without taking your hands off the handlebars, is a convenient way to stay hydrated on the go.

Tava Reynolds 5/27/23 Riding a motorcycle requires a specific set of gear for safety, comfort, and performance, and socks are part of that equation. Here's why motorcycle socks are important: 1. Comfort: Motorcycle socks are designed to provide comfort during long rides. They can offer added padding in areas where your feet might feel the most pressure, such as the heel and the balls of the feet. 2. Temperature Regulation: Depending on their material, motorcycle socks can help keep your feet cool in hot weather and warm in cold conditions. They also help wick away sweat, keeping your feet dry and preventing blisters. 3. Protection: Some motorcycle socks are designed with additional protection, like shin guards, to protect you from impacts. They can also protect your skin from chafing against the interior of the boots. 4. Improved Fit: Socks can help ensure a snug fit of your motorcycle boots, which can prevent your foot from sliding around inside the boot. As for what kind of motorcycle socks to use, it depends on your specific needs, the weather conditions, and the type of riding you do. However, here are a few things to consider: Material: Look for moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic blends. These materials can help keep your feet dry and comfortable. Height: The height of the sock should match your boot height. For example, if you're wearing tall boots, you'll want to consider over-the-calf socks. Padding: Some socks come with extra padding or reinforced areas for comfort and durability. Fit: Make sure the socks fit well. They shouldn't be so tight that they restrict circulation, but they also shouldn't be loose enough to bunch up. Popular brands for motorcycle socks include Dainese, REV'IT!, Legendary USA, and Alpinestars. Remember to consider your personal comfort and the type of riding you'll be doing when choosing your motorcycle socks.

Reggie Trig 5/26/23 Your vest or jacket needs to be kept in shape! Our friends at Legendary USA give some good comprehensive advice. Leather jackets, especially those used for motorcycle riding, can take a beating from the elements. Proper care and maintenance can extend their life and keep them looking good. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to recondition your leather motorcycle jacket: 1. Clean the Jacket: Before you can recondition the leather, you need to clean it. Use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or dust. For stubborn stains or grime, use a leather cleaner. Make sure to test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won't discolor or damage the leather. 2. Dry the Jacket: Let the jacket dry naturally after cleaning. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers as they can cause the leather to dry out and crack. 3. Apply Leather Conditioner: Once the jacket is clean and dry, apply a high-quality leather conditioner. Leather conditioners replenish the natural oils in the leather, keeping it supple and preventing it from drying out and cracking. Apply the conditioner with a soft cloth, working it into the leather in a circular motion. Avoid over-saturating the leather; a little goes a long way. 4. Let the Jacket Absorb the Conditioner: After you've applied the conditioner, let the jacket sit overnight to absorb it. This gives the conditioner time to penetrate the leather and replenish its natural oils. We recommend using Obenaufs heavt duty leather conditioner. 5. Buff and Polish: After the conditioner has been absorbed, buff off any excess with a clean, dry cloth. If you want your jacket to have a bit of a shine, you can apply a leather polish. Just remember to test it on an inconspicuous area first. 6. Regular Maintenance: To keep your jacket in the best shape, it's a good idea to clean and condition it regularly. How often depends on how much you wear it and the conditions it's exposed to, but generally, conditioning it once or twice a year should be sufficient. Remember to always check the manufacturer's care instructions before cleaning or conditioning your jacket, as some leathers may have specific care requirements or may not react well to certain products. Remember to always check the manufacturer's care instructions before cleaning or conditioning your jacket, as some leathers may have specific care requirements or may not react well to certain products.

Tava Reynolds 5/25/23 Picking up a fallen motorcycle can be a daunting task, especially considering the weight of the bike. However, there's a safe method to do this that requires more technique than brute strength. Here's a step-by-step guide: Assess the Situation: Before attempting to lift the motorcycle, make sure it's safe to do so. If the bike is leaking fluids or if there are other hazards, it may be best to wait for professional assistance. Prepare the Motorcycle: Put the motorcycle in gear if it's not already, to prevent it from rolling. Make sure the side stand is down on the side that the bike will be lifted onto. If the bike fell on the right side, you might need to move it slightly to get the stand down. Position Yourself Properly: Stand with your back to the bike and your feet hip-width apart. Lower your body into a squatting position - this is important, as lifting should be done with your legs, not your back, to prevent injury. Get a Good Grip: Reach down and grab the lower handle with one hand, and find a sturdy part of the bike to grip with the other hand. This could be the back seat handle, the edge of the seat, or a part of the frame. Avoid gripping any parts that might move or that could be hot. Use Your Legs to Lift: Push your body upward with your legs while holding onto the bike. Keep your back straight and don't twist your body. As you lift, the weight of the bike will gradually shift to the tires and become easier to manage. Steady the Motorcycle: As the bike comes upright, be careful not to push too hard and tip it over the other way. Once it's upright, make sure it's stable before letting go. Remember, safety is paramount. If the bike is too heavy, don't hesitate to ask for help. It's better to wait for assistance than risk an injury.

J.J. Turbo 5/24/23 Changing the oil in your motorcycle is crucial for several reasons, primarily related to the longevity, efficiency, and performance of your bike. Firstly, oil serves as the lifeblood of your motorcycle's engine. It lubricates the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction and wear that can lead to significant damage over time. By replacing the oil regularly, you ensure that your engine is consistently lubricated with fresh, high-quality oil, which can help to extend the life of your engine. Secondly, oil plays a vital role in cooling the engine. As the engine operates, it generates a significant amount of heat, which can damage the engine if not adequately managed. The oil absorbs some of this heat as it circulates through the engine, helping to prevent overheating. Over time, however, oil breaks down and loses its ability to absorb heat effectively. Regular oil changes ensure that your engine always has a supply of fresh oil to assist in cooling. Lastly, changing your motorcycle's oil regularly helps to maintain its performance. Over time, tiny particles of dirt and metal can accumulate in the oil, which can reduce engine efficiency and power output. Changing the oil removes these contaminants and helps to keep your engine running at its best. In addition, clean oil helps to improve fuel efficiency, meaning you'll get more miles per gallon, saving you money at the pump. Therefore, regular oil changes are a relatively small investment that can yield substantial benefits for your motorcycle in the long run. Motorcycle Oil We Recommend Mobil 1 96936 20W-50 V-Twin Synthetic Motocycle Motor Oil: This oil is designed for four-cycle motorcycles and is known for its excellent performance under high temperatures. It provides excellent wear protection and helps keep engines clean. Castrol POWER1 4T 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil: This oil is designed to optimize performance and protection for motorcycle engines. It offers excellent acceleration and power due to its Power Release Formula. Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic Heavy Duty Engine Oil 5W-40: While not specifically marketed for motorcycles, many riders use Rotella T6 for its high quality and synthetic protection. It's known for its excellent heat resistance and engine cleaning properties. Motul 7100 Synthetic Oil 4T: This 100% synthetic oil is designed for high-performance motorcycles. It offers excellent shear resistance, and its formulation is known for optimizing fuel economy and reducing engine wear. Liqui Moly Motorbike 4T Synth 10W-50 Street Race: This fully synthetic high-performance engine oil is designed for sporty motorcycles. It promises fast oil delivery at low temperatures and high lubrication reliability at high and low temperatures. Remember, always check your motorcycle's manual for the manufacturer's oil recommendations, as using the wrong type or viscosity can harm your engine.

Tava Reynolds 5/24/23 Legendary USA is a world renowned brand in the motorcycle gear industry, with a particular emphasis on leather products. Founded over 30 years ago, Legendary USA has built a strong reputation for manufacturing high-quality, American-made leather goods, including motorcycle vests and jackets. Their products are designed with both style and functionality in mind, offering customers robust protection and a classic aesthetic. What sets Legendary USA apart is its commitment to American manufacturing. Every item in their catalog is American-made, which is a rarity in today's globalized market. This dedication to domestic production not only ensures a high level of quality control but also supports local economies and job creation. Hillside Leather is a well-known purveyor of fine leather goods, specializing in motorcycle gear. The company prides itself on the craftsmanship and quality of its products, with each item being handcrafted in the United States. Hillside Leather offers a wide range of products, including jackets, vests, chaps, and accessories, all designed with the motorcycle enthusiast in mind. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, they utilize only the highest grade, domestically sourced leather in their pieces, ensuring longevity and durability. Both Hillside Leather and Legendary USA are testaments to the enduring appeal of well-crafted, American-made leather goods. While each company has its own unique approach and product offerings, they share a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. For motorcycle enthusiasts seeking durable, stylish, and reliable gear, both Hillside Leather and Legendary USA offer compelling options. In addition to their standard product offerings, Hillside Leather also offers custom design services. This allows customers to create unique, personalized pieces tailored to their specific needs and style preferences. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction, combined with their use of high-quality materials and craftsmanship, has earned Hillside Leather a solid reputation in the industry.