Push Mountain Road Motorcycle Ride

Push Mountain Road was beckoning us on Halloween of 2011. It was a beautiful sunny, blue sky, and 70F day. After a few phone calls we gathered at Doc's house at headed out for another scenic ride on Push Mountain Road (AR 341). The colors were still spectacular and the any traffic was nonexistent. As we wandered through some county roads towards Push Mountain Road we were joined by a big mule, which seemed confused being on the wrong side of the fence. It was great for a laugh and pics. Only in Arkansas.
We rode in from Mountain Home so we began the Push Mountain Road ride from the north. We stopped just past the White River to relax and enjoy a wonderful day and the magnificent autumn scenery. Jumping back on our bikes we moved on, completely owning the road as there was really no other traffic out that day. In addition to the challenge of the hairpin turns, numerous switchbacks, 100 plus curves, and hills and valleys, the best thing about this ride is the lack of traffic. All the bikers I know who often ride Push Mountain Road insists it's a new event every time.
We all enjoyed a nice leisurely ride, Joe filmed the ride for our new website, and we made a pit stop to say howdy to Chuck and his dog Cooper at his Crossroads store.
Riding this beautiful road in the land of enchantment that is the Ozarks is wonderful any time of the year. In the summer you can find little pieces of nirvana where the trees offer a shady asylum to cool yourself on a warm summer day. Trips in the spring are rich with wild flowers sprinkling the pastoral landscape. But, my favorite time of the year to ride this road is in the fall with brilliant, vivid foliage surrounding you.
Don't even bother trying to count all the curves in this road. It's the challenge of the road that first attracts motorcycle enthusiasts to it, but some of the best times will come from the people you meet from around the country who have come to Arkansas for the scenic Arkansas motorcycle trips. You can meet new people on this road everyday in the summer months motorcycle ride.
You can run into street bikes flying by you at 120 MPH or more, making you feel like you are standing still. I personally enjoy cruising, either on my trike or on my chopper. My comfort zone is forty -five to fifty MPH, which allows me to enjoy all the mountain has to offer. Heading south, Push Mountain Road ends at AR-14, just east of Big Flat.

Motorcycle Windshield Bags and Safety

Nowadays, more people are using the motorcycle as a mode of transport than ever before. In a standard bike, people cannot store things, and carrying luggage has been a difficult and dangerous task. To solve this, bike riders have resorted to a method which was used even before motorized cars were invented: saddle-type bags. Saddle-type bags are placed on the ride, rather than being held by the person riding, however, saddle bags have already been considered an outdated way to store and bring luggage, so companies are forced to bring new and innovative stylish bags into the market to attract customers. They must find ways to make these new storage bags are very beautiful and very compelling, so that riders want to have them featured on their bikes.
The motorcycle windshield bag is one type of these modern bags. This bag has a unique style which suits your bike: this kind of bag is fixed to the handlebar of the motorcycle. This bag allows you to carry useful items with you for different trips. Most people want to have personal effects such as cell phones, cameras, medicines and other small items close at hand when traveling, and this bag is specially designed for the people who love road trips and adventurous riding. This bag is also very useful for persons who have to carry cash and different official documents with them.
As windshield bags are available in different sizes and models, every person can choose the specific type of bag they need depending on their own needs and requirements. You should also take the brand and model of your bike into consideration, since not all windshield bags are compatible with every model of motorbike.
The downside is that this type of bag is relatively small, and can hold only limited items. The basic purpose of this bag is to keep only those things that are personal and essential. So you have to be very selective and keep only your most important things in it. There are different materials that go into making these bags; some bags are made of leather and some are made of parachute. If you think you should carry a waterproof bag then the parachute bag is more suitable for you. Leather bags are more durable, so you can rely on it when you have to go out for a long ride. You should never compromise the quality of this item if you want to keep your items safe and dry.
There are many types of bags in the market, which can differ in quality, design and styles. Some bags are suitable for smaller items like money and jewelry, so they have many separate compartments. Some are made for storing electronics, so they have to be waterproof and strong. You may also find a motorcycle windshield bag which is perfectly designed for your sports gadgets. However, you do not have any need to buy different bags for different occasions as these bags are very versatile.

The Motorcycle Tool Bag: A Perfect Road Companion

Nobody can predict when a machine might stop working. Imagine what will happen if you are far away from your home and your motorcycle breaks down because of engine failure or loose bike nuts and you have no way to call a mechanic to repair it. That is why you always need to take essential repair and maintenance tools with you, especially if you are going for a long drive. Motorcycle tool bags fulfil this need and can help you in difficult times. You can carry many essential and basic machine tools with you and keep them securely in a bag.
A good tool bag comes equipped with straps on it so that it can be attached on your motorcycle's handlebar, fork, front lights, or wherever you want. Another option is for you to attach the bag behind your seat or above the rear wheels. This way, you can store more goods in a more comfortable and convenient manner, as the bag does not hinder or block your view of the road at all. Buckles at the ends of the straps give it a new look and strengthen its grip. Some come with the heavy zipper instead of straps and some have studs that keep it attached in place. This type of bag is relatively small, and ranges from nine to twelve inches in length.
It has different sections inside it to hold different tools. Some have the inside straps so that long tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches can be held in place. Strapped tool sections make it easier to pick up a particular tool and replace it without hassle.
The storage of tools in the motorcycle tool bag makes it heavier than the other traditional motorcycle storage leather bags. Because it has to put up with more abuse and use, it is made up of heavy-duty material such as leather or nylon. These materials are used to increase the durability and usability of this bag. Most bags only have the space to store basic tools used for maintaining your motorcycle, such as tightening nuts and bolts of tires or changing spark plugs.
Before buying a bag, there are several quality checks that you have to keep in mind in order to get a highly durable and usable bag. It must be made up of hard leather so that it can maintain its shape even when empty; and it must be able bear the weight of the tools easily. It must be waterproof so it can prevent your tools from getting water damage.
It can also be used to store your personal items. You can put your accessories like mobile phones, gloves, wallets, etc. It can be fixed in front of your motorcycle to make it more easily accessible.
This bag is not only a bag for your bike but it also provides safety for yourself and the people around you. Many riders keep medicines in it and provide useful medical assistance to other riders in case of any accidents.

Features of Hard Saddle Bag

There might be times when you've found yourself yearning to take a ride, but found that there is little space on your motorbike to take all the items you want with you. If you want to make your trip memorable, you will want to bring some important things so that you may spend your vacation time happily, conveniently and well-prepared. If you are facing storage problems on your bike, you don't have to worry anymore. A lot of bikers are unaware of the existence of certain biking gadgets and accessories that can resolve this problem. In this modern era, where comfort and efficacy has been the focus of invention, and life is becoming easier than ever before, shortage of luggage space on bikes is no longer a big issue. Hard saddle bags will help you get rid of this problem.
This kind of bag can help provide you enough space in your bike to carry many things. Even if you don't have enough money to get a car, you can still enjoy the storage capacity of a car by installing such bags on your bike. These bags are designed to increase the storage capacity of your bike, while keeping your items safe and secure during riding.
The bag is installed on the back-end of your bike, and can be mounted on either side of the rear wheel. If they are made of good quality, these bags are very durable, and will provide full protection for your items. This type of bag is the best option for the safety and security of your items, because of the hard and solid leather used for its body cover. You will find that this bag more expensive than other smaller leather-made bags, but investment of a few extra dollars is worth the safekeeping of your belongings. This type of bag can also feature a lock, which keeps your things from getting stolen, and increases the security of the items.
Hard saddle bags have a very hard body which can protect the items stored in it. The hard material can also be a good place to put tools, since it can withstand heavy and sharp objects inside it. This bag is very durable and last for a long period of time.
The usage of this type of saddle bag is very common for police officers, fast food delivery vehicles, and other companies that have high motorbike use, because of the space, security and the peace of mind that it offers. No doubt, it allows you to have ample space where you can put your things easily, but there is a common problem associated with using hard saddle bags. It does add a significant amount of weight on your bike, and if you have loaded it with many things, it is very difficult to control your motorbike. Decreased maneuverability can increase the chance of accidents, so it is essential that all bikers are aware of the importance of not overloading their bags. If you want to remove these heavy bags, you can unload them as easily as you have installed them on your bikes.

The Benefits of Tail Bags

Motorbike enthusiasts differ in terms of how they like riding their bikes; some riders love short, quick rides, while other prefer a longer, more leisurely adventure on their bikes. These people prefer riding bikes over cars because of many reasons: bikes are preferable for long drives because they are easy to manoeuvre in tight traffic, which makes it great for riding in congested areas. The open style of riding also makes the traveling experience more refreshing; this is the reason why bikes are becoming the ride of choice when it comes to tourists who love to experience nature. The cool breeze and the close proximity to nature makes the experience even more exciting and memorable.
During these trips to nature, you still want to be able to bring creature comforts with you, like a good amount of clothes, your beloved gadgets and other personal items. However, this is the one drawback of riding a bike: there is very little storage space on the bike itself. So there must be a bag which is used to hold the personal electronic gadgets, foods and different tools. If you're in the market for such a bag, then the tail bag is definitely the bag for you.
Tail bags are placed on the back of your bike and are designed in a way which fits the bike securely and safely. It is easily detachable so that you can remove and carry it to some other place whenever you want. There are different styles of these bags found in the market. Some people match the bag color and design with their bikes, while others prefer function over style. There are also different kinds of dimension and storage size. These sizes are made corresponding to their specific use and requirement. Small or tiny ones have enough space to hold your electronic gadgets, cash or light snacks. The bigger tail bags are made to carry your clothes, books, and travel gear. Conventional lengths fall within the range of ten to thirty inches, and some bag models have expandable spaces concealed by zippers to give you extra space when you need it. When you have to choose, you have to think both about dimensions and its storage space.
The price of the bag varies, depending on the material of production and design. But you may find a tail bag in the market from $30 to $200. If you want to purchase it online, it would be available for as cheap as $25. This bag carries your things safely and tightly, so that are you are not distracting while riding. One great advantage about having this kind of bag is that you can place your tools inside it, so you always have the tools you need to repair and maintain your bike, even while on the road. You won't have to worry about misplacing your bike tools ever again!
A little money spent on this creative bag is a good investment to save your time. Whether you have to go to a long journey or to have a short ride, this bag can help you in emergencies and securing your items. Tail bags are not only a bag but also a companion at the time of traveling.

Windshield Bags for Safekeeping Items

For a lot of motorists, one of the biggest headaches is packing, especially if it's hurried packing. At the eleventh hour, they are reminded of a lot of things to carry with them, and forget other essential things as well. Even if they get to pack ahead of time, most people will just throw everything they need into a bag without worrying about storage space. But what do we do if we have a bike rather than a car? Motorcycles don't have a lot of space, so riders would need to be able to choose through their items more carefully. What will a bike rider do while he/she is in a hurry?
To solve this problem of bike riders, windshield bags are out in the market as a way to make sure that a rider can keep all of their essential items close at hand and ready to leave at a moment's notice. These types of bags are mounted between the dashboard and the windshield of the bike.
Windshield bags are small, and are used to store small-sized items. These bags provide a perfect storage space to store urgent things which can be easily accessible at any given time. These items are normally personal items such as sunglasses, gloves, mobile phones, diary, map, pen, battery, camera, etc. Usually they store smaller things that you do not want to waste your time to search in larger bags for. They can also give more protection while storing these items, since these items are prone to damage when stored in larger bags with bigger, heavier things.
Windshield bags are made up of leather. They not only solve the problems of a bike rider being able to store items and use them at a moment's notice, but also enhance the beauty and attractiveness of the bike's handlebar by giving it a more rugged look. Some of the bags have the straps that keep it attached more tightly on the dashboard. There are different pockets in this kind of bag, which keep your things in a systematic way that you can easily find them in it.
When you are going to buy this bag, there are some points that you must keep in mind. First, the quality of the material from which it is made must be good. It is preferable to buy a bag that is waterproof, so that even during bad weather, you will know that your items are still safe and dry, and you won't worry about having to find shelter. Good quality leather also increases the bag's durability. Solid leather bags ensure more security for your items. Bags with the multiple pockets provide you better facilities to keep your things separately and in a more organized way. The mounting method of these bags must be considered before purchasing it. You best check if all the materials that you should use to mount them, such as straps, nuts, bolts or zippers, come complete with the bag. Heavy-duty bags are considered a good choice because they consist of folded ends, which increase their robustness and adds another dimension to the rugged look.

Tank Bags Provide Easy Access, More Storage on Motorcycles

Packing for a motorcycle trip is totally different than any other kind of packing. If you're traveling by car you can always squeeze something else in. If you're flying you can check an extra bag, though it may cost you to do so these days.
It's not as easy on a bike. It doesn't matter if you're riding a Star Motorcycles Royal Star Tour Deluxe, those hard bags on the sides at the rear only hold so much. If you don't have a passenger you can bungee a bit more on the seat behind you; if you do have a passenger, forget it.
But there is one other spot where you can create space: on top of your gas tank.
The beauty of a tank bag is that it uses space that would otherwise be empty, it doesn't upset your weight distribution, and it's amazingly convenient. How many times have you stopped in the rain and had to dig through your side bags to find your rain suit? Keep that baby in your tank bag and it's right there when you need it. How about a camera? Keep it in your tank bag and you don't even have to get off the bike to grab that terrific shot.
Most tank bags come with map pockets on top, so all you need to do to check on your route is pull over and look down. In our group it has gotten to be common procedure when we're getting ready to roll for everyone to gather around my bike and look at the map. It's right there all the time, in the clear plastic pocket of my tank bag.
Not all tank bags are created equal, of course, so it pays to be clear on what you want when you go shopping.
Do you want a bag that straps on or will a magnetic one do? Straps are the more secure approach, but you need to have someone to attach them. Not all bikes do. Magnetic bags are very easy to just slap on go, and most of them do have some other means of attachment for added security. But what if your gas tank is plastic? Those magnets aren't going to do you a lot of good. Air flow is another consideration. On my Kawasaki Concours the fairing protects my tank bag from wind and it sits there just fine. On my other bike, an old-school standard, the one time I traveled on it with the tank bag I ended up spending the whole time holding it in place because a stiff wind would overpower the magnets. Straps would have been a much better option.
You'll want to be sure to consider the backing on the bag that sits on your tank. Particularly is you get a bag that is held on with straps, the bag needs to be attached very securely or else any abrasive tendencies the bag might have will rub paint off if the bag is slipping around. Magnetic bags tend not to slip like that, so that's another thing in their favor.
Waterproof is a very good thing. The bag may not get very wet if it is shielded by a fairing but in heavy rain it is going to pick up some moisture. And water will soak past zippers. A properly designed tank bag will have baffles that keep water away from the zippers, or else perhaps plastic zippers, of the sort that plastic zip bags use. You don't want that expensive camera in your tank bag getting wet.
A good tank bag can be a blessing. They come in a wide variety of sizes and designs and any well-stocked motorcycle shop will have a good selection. Do yourself a favor.

Choosing the Right Motorcycle Tail Bag

If you have a motorbike, then you know that most motorbikes do not have enough space to store the things you need while traveling. There are times when you will find yourself in need of tools while on your bike, and there are several options how you can store these tools safely and comfortably. One of these options is having a motorcycle tail bag. This bag does not have the largest storage space but it is very useful in times of urgency. Having this kind of bag will give you both tranquility of mind when you travel, and relief when you need it. It may also be used with the windshield bag, so that you will be able to increase your storage space. By using this, you can have a more comfortable and pleasurable journey than ever.
Motorcycle tail bags have enough storage space to hold your gloves, keys, maps, glasses, mobile phone, chargers and other personal effects. There are varieties of bags available in the market with different colors, sizes, designs and models, so you will be able to find the best bag for you. Depending on your preference, you can choose a model based on your storage needs, your bike model and the overall appearance that you want to achieve.
There are some guidelines are very important to remember if you are going to buy a new motorcycle tail bag. Mainly, you have to remember that not every bag is suitable for you or your bike. The material, size and color vary from bag to bag. The most important factors while buying this bag includes the quality, cost, and the size of the bag in question.
Quality cannot be compromised, since this will determine how useful the bag will be for you. Hence, the first thing that you must consider is the quality. A bag's quality includes a lot of things, ranging from the material from where the bag is made, to how well it is stitched together, to how durable the material is. The last point is very important, because if you have an accident, the quality of the bag must be strong enough to preserve it from any significant damage. The higher the quality of the bag, the more likely it would be durable and strong, and you will be confident in keeping your sensitive items like mobile phones or camera in it while riding.
While it is not a guarantee, the price usually decides the quality of the product. Good quality bags are valued at $50 or more. However, if you really want to have a good quality bag, you should look for branded bags from companies that have been in the business for a long time. A lot of motorcycle companies create bags that are specially designed to be durable, hardy and waterproof.
There is a wide variety of motorcycle tail bags with different styles that are suitable for different models of bikes. Before purchasing any type of bag, the size of the bag must be considered. Keep in mind your bike model and then select the one that perfectly matches, fits and suits it, and one which does not create any disturbances during riding. Do not purchase one whose storage capacity, size or quality cannot be of any use for you. Remember, quality does come at a price!

Dedicated Motorcycle Parking Reduces Cost, Congestion

Traffic is the bane of all commuters, and once you reach your destination you have to park. In most parts of the world, motorcycles and scooters are what many people turn to in order to make the commute faster, easier, and cheaper. The U.S. is not most parts of the world, but we're getting better.
When a commuter rides to work on his/her motorcycle, they accomplish several things. They make the highways and streets less congested, because they take up less space. Their lighter vehicles do less damage to the road surface. And when they park, they take up less parking space-sometimes.
It's that parking aspect that some communities have taken to improve by designating certain parking areas specifically for motorcycles. And yet, in other communities, it's almost as if they want to discourage people from riding. That's how different the laws are.
Let's say you're making your commute on your slim, light, Suzuki GSX-R600. If you work in Edmonton, WA, you can park alongside a lot of other bikes in special, no-charge areas. Not only do you save the money you would otherwise pay to park, but with six or more bikes fitting easily into the space one car would use, you're helping other motorists find their parking spaces more easily.
In other cities, however, you would face an entirely different proposition parking your bike. Some cities require all vehicles to park parallel to the curb in areas designated for parallel parking. That might leave you with room for only two bikes is that space, and that's if the city allows more than one vehicle per parking space. Some do not, even when you're talking motorcycles.
The absurdity of that mandate was demonstrated a couple years ago when one city police department started coming down hard on bikes they considered improperly parked. The bikers banded together and appealed to the city to change their rules but no relief was provided. So a plan was hatched. Early one morning, before most commuters were arriving at work, several hundred motorcyclists came in very early and parked one bike to a parking space all over the downtown area. As far as you could see there were acres of unused space between these solitary motorcycles but nowhere at all for people in cars to park. The city quickly changed its ordinances.
While some four-wheeled motorists might complain that it is unfair for motorcyclists to get preferential parking, the fact is, designated motorcycle parking can be created using curb space that is currently going unused. In Denver the city's traffic department was hard at work on a designated motorcycle parking plan when the recession hit. Although it would have cost very little, with budgets in deficit, any non-essential costs were eliminated and the project stalled before it got off the ground.
Nevertheless, the department was working on an eminently sensible plan. City blocks are frequently marked with paint to designate parking spaces, but often there is not enough room near the corners for another space, even though safety research might show that parking would be OK closer to the corner. Voila. Put a little paint on the asphalt and designate this space for motorcycles. It's just that simple. Now commuters who own motorcycles are encouraged to ride rather than drive because they have convenient, free parking, and that helps everyone else in cars. It's a win-win. Plus, motorists who see motorcyclists getting such a nice benefit might decide it's time for them to buy that bike they've wanted for so long and start riding to work, too.

Tech Advancements Mean Big Improvement In Helmet-To-Helmet Communication for Motorcycles

Maybe it was that time on that bike trip when one of your buddies got separated from the group. You were on your Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero and the other guys were on their cruisers, but your sportbike buddy on his Ninja 1000 got a little tired of your sedate speed. He blasted ahead, right past that turn you were making onto that other highway. There was nothing to do but wait for him to figure out something was wrong and turn around.
Or maybe it was just all the times coming through a town when someone wanted to make a pit stop but was too far in the rear to get everyone's attention.
Heck, maybe it's from all those times when you just wanted to tell your buddy that he left his turn signal blinking, but he wasn't paying any attention to your hand signals.
One way or another, you've been thinking about helmet to helmet communicators. How cool would it be to be able to talk with your buddies while cruising down the highway?
Then again, maybe you've been down this road before. If so, you may have some bad stories to tell. It probably depends on how much money you spent and when you made the purchase. Things have come a long, long way in this technology.
The first thing you need to know is that going cheap is not the answer. Early in our days of week long summer motorcycle trips we stopped by an electronics store and found communicators that worked just fine when one of us stayed in the store while another walked out into the parking lot. And best of all, they only cost about $15 per set. Each of us bought one. What a waste!
It turns out there are laws of physics that you would never know apply in these matters, but communicating via radio waves is affected by speed. It takes specially designed gear to communicate at high speed, as opposed to standing still or walking. Those $15 communicators weren't really even very good at communicating when we were stopped at a traffic signal. The noise of our (quiet) bikes was too much.
Next time around, my wife and I paid some real money-about $175-for a communicator set so we could talk while she rode behind me. These actually worked-for a while, at least-although we got a lot of static and interference, occasionally picking up other people's cell phone conversations. At times we'd get a high-pitched squealing and we would both just start saying "Blah, blah, blah" in order to squelch it.
On top of that, the communicators included a boom, that is, an extension that came forward and had to be positioned in front of our mouths to pick up what we were saying. And if it wasn't perfectly positioned it didn't do its job very well. We only had some regrets when these units died.
Oh, how times have changed. As has happened so many times, technological advancements developed in order to provide our soldiers with good-working gear has trickled down to us motorcyclists. Today you can buy helmet to helmet communicators that incorporate this made-for-military technology and the difference is night and day. That annoying boom? Gone. Now the speakers that sit close to your ears also hold a microphone that picks up every word you say. Noise canceling technology filters out wind and road noise, the rumble of your motorcycle, and everything else except your voice. And with advancements in speaker quality, the sound comes through much, much better than before. Heck, these things are designed so you can sync it up with your MP3 player and listen to music while you ride, wirelessly.
Of course, there are other types of communicators, too. Each has plusses and minuses. But it's worth going down to your local motorcycle dealer and seeing what's out there. You're going to get a lot more for your money today than you would have 10 years ago.

Suzuki Offers Full Motorcycle Line-Up for 2012

Time was just a couple years ago, in 2010, that motorcycle sales were off so badly that Suzuki only offered two 2010 models in the U.S. What a difference a couple years make!
Suzuki is back this year with more than two dozen updated 2012 models, across their entire product line.
There are five 2012 sportbike models in the line-up, two Hayabusas and three GSXs. They include the basic 1340cc Hayabusa and the 1340cc Hayabusa Limited Edition, as well as the GSX-R1000, GSX-R750, and GSX-R600. Prices range a base MSRP of $14,299 for the Hayabusa Limited Edition down to $11,599 for the GSX-R600.
There are also five bikes offered in the cruiser category for 2012, all variations on Suzuki's Boulevard model. You have your choice of the Boulevard M109R, Boulevard M109R Limited Edition, Boulevard C50T Classic, Boulevard C50T, and Boulevard S40. Engine sizes range from 652cc for the Boulevard S40 to 1783cc for the two Boulevard M109R models. Prices at the top end run $14,799 for the Boulevard M109R Limited Edition down to a scant $5,399 for the Boulevard S40.
There's only one bike in the touring category for 2012, and that's the same Boulevard C50T that is also listed as a cruiser. This bike has an 805cc engine and the MSRP is $9,499.
Motocross bikes include the RM-Z450, RM-Z250, RM85, and RM85L. The numbers in the names indicate the engine size and the biggest of the four has an MSRP of $8,399 while the smallest is listed at $4,199. The RM85 and RM85L are also listed under the category of kids' bikes.
There is one standard in Suzuki's 2012 line-up, the 249cc TU250X, which carries an MSRP of $4,099. Suzuki describes it as having "classic styling, including spoked wheels, a round headlight and sweptback muffler - and plenty of chrome."
In the dual-sport category, there are six 2012 bikes to choose from, including the newly returned V-Strom 1000 and its close kin, the V-Strom 1000 Adventure. You also have the options of the V-Strom 650 ABS and V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure, as well as the DR650SE and DR-Z400S. With adventure riding one of the fastest-growing segments in motorcycling, Suzuki has taken its already highly rated V-Strom to the next level with the two Adventure models. Hard side bags are stock on both Adventure models and the bigger one also comes with a top case.
Trending closer to out-and-out dirt bikes, the DR650SE and DR-Z400S are still great for pavement or the dirt, and lighter than the V-Stroms. Prices for the group range from $10,999 for the V-Strom 1000 Adventure to $5,000 for the DR650SE.
And as to dirt bikes, or off-road as Suzuki categories them, the 2012 offerings include the DR-Z125 and DR-Z125L. As Suzuki says, "When you've got a DR-Z, the whole world looks a little different. You start seeing whoops, jumps, and washboards everywhere you look. Even a rainy day just means more mud to play in."
Finally there are the scooters. Suzuki offers two scooters for 2012, the Burgman 650 Exec and the Burgman 400 ABS. Ranging in price from $9,899 to $7,599 respectively, the scoots offer the power of a full-sized motorcycle with the convenience and comfort commonly associated with scooters. Scooter seats are known for being large and comfortable and the Burgmans do not disappoint on that count. Add to that the impressive cargo space that will accommodate two full-face helmets and you may find your car being left in the garage more and more

The Importance of Tank Bags

There are many reasons why people may prefer riding motorbikes instead of cars. Motorbikes are cheaper, more maneuverable in traffic and are easier to maintain. They are also great for riding if you're riding in the country or if you are sightseeing. So now, in this modern era, there are varieties of bikes available in the market with different and unique features and designs. As more and more bikes are selling out in the market, different bike gadgets are coming up which gains the attention of the people.
When going to any expedition or any trip, it is important to bring along all the necessary items to make the trip more convenient and memorable. It is sometimes very difficult for riders to tie their luggage on their bike, especially if they have a lot of luggage with them. Thus, a very useful item for the bikers is the tank bag. Tank bags provide rider with the solution of securing the luggage tightly and safely on the bike. This bag works well for tourists who want to spend their day or night out and have some needed stuff to carry with them like tents, clothes, mobile phones, light batteries, medicines, food and money, etc.
Mostly riders choose the matching color of their bags with the color of the bike they ride. They also have to choose the size of their bag according to their need and the size of their bike's tank. If the size of the bag is bigger than that of bike, it will interfere or occupy the riding seat, which not only interferes with the rider, but can also make riding hazardous. There are two types of tank bag. Some are mounted to the tank by using magnets that latch onto the bike tank, but if the bag is overloaded then the grip of magnets would not be strong enough and the bag may slip off. The other type uses straps to bind it with the bike's tank.
Some of the bags are designed in such a way that the size can be adjusted by zipping up or zipping down the extra space zipper. It also has some insulated inside pockets to hold electronics mobile phones, iPods or radios. Some of them have a clear, outside map pocket that is used to store maps. The shape of the bag is usually horizontally flat and the base of it is made of a solid panel to prevent it from slipping off the bike tank. They are also usually made from parachute fabric, so that the bag is waterproof, and the items inside are dry even when the rain pours.
Some considerations that must be remembered to use the tank bag are as follows:
1. You must keep in mind to clean your bike's tank before installing it.
2. You must use a rubber pad inside it to prevent scratching and to increase the security of your items.
3. While using a magnet holder, do not put magnet sensitive things near it; if you need to, you must pack them in a way to prevent interference with the magnets.
4. Do not reposition it before lifting it, otherwise it will leave scratches on your bike's tank.
5. Do not overload the bag.
Using this type of bag will give you the peace of mind that you need to be able to completely focus on the road because you will be secure in knowing that your items and personal effects are safe, dry and within sight at all times.

10 Tips for Purchasing a Motorcycle

Many of you may be thinking of purchasing a new or new-to-you motorcycle. With the plethora of models, brands, and styles out there, filtering all the information you're going to be hearing and seeing to find the bike that's just right for you can be a daunting exercise. It can also be lots of fun.
Here are some general guidelines to follow whether you're buying new or used.

1. Determine what kind of riding you want to do. If you are fortunate enough to have more than one in your stable, it's less of an issue. For most of us, we have to decide which model best incorporates the kind of riding we will be doing most of the time. Not only do you need to think about whether it's a cruiser, sport bike, touring or off road - think about whether you'll be regularly carrying a passenger and luggage and the weight capacity of the bike.


2. Purchase a bike that's compatible with your skill level and riding experience. Don't buy something that you can "grow into". This is risky behaviour and will jeopardize your safety. It's much better to become proficient on a bike suitable to your skill level and then, when you're ready, move up to a more powerful bike.


3. Sit on the bike in the riding position. How comfortable is it for you? Is it a stretch to reach the controls or the ground? Can you picture yourself in this position for extended periods? Feel the wind in your face.


4. Consider how often you are going to have to take it in and how convenient the location and their hours of operation are. Talk to others who have used the service resource to determine their credibility and service level.Ask about the frequency of maintenance and the subsequent costs.


5. Assess. If you like to perform routine maintenance yourself, how simple is it to do? Do you need to purchase other equipment such as a lift? How readily available are replacement parts?


6. Purchase from a salesperson who is also a rider. Enough said.


7. Remember that all bikes can be customized - at least to a certain extent. If you see one that's just right for you except for a few adjustments or accessories, ask what's available (and where) in parts and accessories to make that bike yours.


8. Bring an experienced rider with you. They may pick up things that you miss.


9. Resist the temptation to purchase the 1st bike you see. There are lots to choose from. It's an important purchase and even more important to make an objective decision.


10. Research. Talk to other trustworthy riders, retailers, insurance companies. Beware of forums - they can have valuable advice; on the other hand, you usually don't know who you're talking to so can't reliably assess their level of expertise - even though they may sound like an expert.

Why Take Motorcycle Riding Classes Before Riding

Riding a motorcycle is something that many people enjoy. Whether they like to feel the wind as they go down the road or simply observe the world around them, there is always something positive for a rider to point out. If you are attracted to motorcycles and want to try the activity yourself, consider taking a riding class first.
1. You Will Gain Confidence
Some people that are just entering the world of motorbikes feel unsure. They may not believe that they have the skills needed to keep the motorcycle steady, among other things. When you choose to partake in a riding class, you will gain the confidence you need to get you through. You will realize that you have the ability to take on new skills, raising your self-esteem a great degree.
2. Motorcycle Shops May Give You a Discount
Motorcycle shops like to do what they can to connect to current and potential customers. In some cases they may give discounts to people that have learned to ride properly. While the discount or other incentive given may not be large, it can still make all of the difference when you are looking for your first bike. If you are on a budget it can leave you with money to spend on other things. If the motorcycle shop does not advertise their discount for taking a riding class, make sure that you ask. Do not be afraid to take the chance.
3. Insurance Companies May Provide a Discount
If you cannot get a discount at your local motorcycle shop, chances are high that you can still cut back on your insurance costs. Many insurance companies will reward people that are safe drivers or have taken steps to become one. This is because, in the long run, the company will not have to pay money for frequent and damaging accidents. The better you are on the road the more you will be rewarded. Once you take the class, do not simply expect your insurance company to notice what you have done. Take it into your own hands and talk to a representative.
4. You Will Learn Important Skills
If you think taking a riding class would only help you when it comes to motorcycles, you would be wrong. In a riding class you can learn safety measures for the road in general. Whether you are riding a motorbike or driving a car, the skills that you receive can help you. You will be more aware of the people on the road, and you can plan around possibly dangerous weather. What you learn can change your life in some way, and you can spread your knowledge to loved ones. This is something to keep in mind, if nothing else.

Movies That Feature Motorcycle Riders

There are movies made in Hollywood that makes everyone want to go out and purchase a motorcycle. There are even characters played within the films or shows that make riding a motorcycle cool. Those characters and movies defined how a rider should ride a motorcycle. Take a look at the featured movies and see if you can remember watching the movie and recall your reactions during the scenes.
The first movie that comes to mind is, "The Principal," a story of triumph. This movie is more on the drama side, in which, the principal Rick Latimer is played by actor James Belushi. Belushi is trying to bring order and structure to a struggling school while fighting the criminals within. The last scene of the movie shows the principal fighting the schools number one criminal, who tried to rape one of the teachers, but is caught by the police and taken into custody. At the end of the fight scene the principal screams "No More!" As Principal Rick is leaving on his motorcycle someone asks him, who do you think you are? His response, "I'm the Principal!"
Then there's the movie "Ghost Rider!" This movie features Nicholas Cage as Johnny Blaze. This movie is a story of adventure and life on the wild side. It almost reminds you of the movie "Evel Knievel," but it is more evil. Johnny Blaze played by actor Nicholas Cage sells his soul to the devil to save his father from dying. What he didn't know was that he would sign a life-long contract with his blood turning him into a ghost rider.
Who can forget the movie "Batman: The Dark Knight!" This was one of the few times we saw batman not driving his famous bat-mobile. Instead, he trades it in for his bat-motorcycle. Although, many will remember this film as being the last for actor Heath Ledger, the action packed thriller was one for the ages. The scene starts when batman is trapped in an accident and looks like his bat-mobile is damaged beyond repair. Out the rubble his bat-mobile turns into a bat-motorcycle. Then batman goes on to pursue the infamous joker riding over cars, buildings and fighting the bad guys along the way.
Finally, there's the movie that defined motorcycle riding, "Evil Knievel!" This classic film is about the life of Robert Craig Knievel, who was an American stunt devil and entertainer, giving audiences of all ages something to remember. Knievel had several up and downs in his riding entertainment career. One of the most memorable jumps attempted was in Las Vegas at the Caesars Palace Hotel. He was scheduled to jump the hotel's famous fountain, which was filmed for the American Broadcasting Company, but the jump failed. Knievel was severely injured and in a coma for 29 days. Now, I wonder what kind of insurance he must have had to cover such death-defying acts.