Twisted Thread

Archive for February, 2012

In America, there are so many people using motorcycle everyday as a form of transportation. They choose motorcycle in stead of cars because of reasons of mileage and finances . And perhaps the most common reason motorcycle riders prefer this mode of transportation is the way riding makes them feel.

Unfortunately, as exhilarating as these vehicles may be to ride, they are also very dangerous. While almost all cars manufactured today have a number of safety features including roll bars, anti-lock braking systems and copious air bags, cycles offer virtually no form of protection for riders.

Driving Near Bikes

A major issue with motorcycles that many car drivers do not take very seriously is how susceptible they are to serious damage from cars. An average car weighs around 3,000 pounds and can take out a little motorcycle with the smallest bump.

It is therefore up to car drivers to operate in a very cautious manner when they encounter motorcycles.

Drivers should do the following in order to keep cyclists safe:

? Check mirrors and blind spots frequently for the presence of a motorcyclist. They can be very difficult to spot and not being aware of the presence of one can end in tragedy.

? Back off-drivers should allow for a large size cushion between themselves and motorcycles. Drivers should never tail gate cyclists or pass them too closely. Passing too closely can cause the car to clip a part of the motorcycle and send it spinning.  Read more... (305 words, estimated 1:13 mins reading time)

The clothes that motorcyclists wear are as much a part of the culture as the bikes themselves. But this apparel is meant to do much more than look cool; motorclothes are more about protection than any other consideration. For the most guaranteed protection, a strong leather jacket is a must for motorcyclists. Why? For two main reasons: (1) It will keep you warm and ventilated, and (2) If you hit the ground it will protect your skin from road rash better than any other material.

One of the most important aspects to take into consideration when you buy a motorcycle jacket–or any other type of motorcycle gear, for that matter–is comfort. An uncomfortable rider is a distracted one, which can lead to accidents and injuries. Take the time to shop around to find a jacket that fits you comfortably. If possible, take your bike with you and test-drive your jacket by sitting on the bike as you normally would.

Are the shoulders too snug and don’t allow for maximum movement? Can you comfortably zip up the jacket without feeling constricted? Are the arms of the jacket long enough to cover the space between it and the tops of your gloves? Asking yourself important questions like these can prevent an accident, and will ensure that you actually continue to wear the equipment after purchasing it. Remember, your protection is at stake if you choose an ill-fitting jacket that distracts you from the road ahead of you.  Read more... (313 words, estimated 1:15 mins reading time)

There is no standard definition of classic cars, but the older the car the more the more likely it is to be called classic. Usually, cars that are older than 20 years and are in good working condition are regarded as classic cars. If you own one of these beauties you may be looking for cheap classic car insurance. Insurance has evolved; it is now very easy to get insurance coverage for your classic car unlike in past years when securing insurance for the classic car category had so many restrictions. To get a policy for a classic car was a tedious process in which the insurance provider required you to provide a lot of information; the firms were also very particular on the models, age and make of the car.

Internet has become a profitable marketplace for insurance companies. It is easy to get several cheap classic car insurance quotes in minutes via internet.

These nearly instant insurance quote comparisons will save you time and money. Internet will provide you with a freedom to choose from the comparison sites which company is offering a better deal for classic car insurance coverage.  Read more... (467 words, estimated 1:52 mins reading time)

How much time do you devote to maintaining your motorcycle trailer?

Maintaining motorcycle trailers is critical for both your safety and the safety of other road users.

Also, spending a little time going over aspects of your motorcycle trailers most important components can save your a lot of time and not to mention money in the long term.

So, what aspects do you need to monitor with your motorcycle trailer? The following items are some of the important things to check on your motorcycle trailer, however it is not an exhaustive list:

a. Check your tires for wear and tear. How are the tires wearing? Are there signs of balding? Are there signs of the rubber perishing? If so, you may need to consider replacing the tires. Are the wheels aligned correctly or are they toeing?

b. Check the coupler and the bolts and nuts that attach the coupler to the drawbar or tongue.

Are all the nuts tight? If you have a 360 degree swivel coupling then you may be able to grease the swivel section to ensure it is moving freely. Also check the safety chains to ensure that they are securely attached to he drawbar or tongue. Check the drawbar or tongue to ensure it is securely attached to the trailer chassis. Do a check of the chassis for signs of rust or metal fatigue!

c. Check the wiring, lights and plug to ensure that brake, parker and indicator lights are all working correctly. If not then fix the problem immediately.  Read more... (466 words, estimated 1:52 mins reading time)

You’ve spent your life working towards the day that you could finally buy your dream car. To many, the car of their dreams is one that is fast and sleek, spanking new. Not so with you. You are a classic car buff and nothing else will satisfy your automobile needs. Bet you never considered getting classic car insurance.

You probably went to dozens of classic car shows and auctions before finding the one that was right, the car that could belong to no other but you. You’ve paid your price and are happy and ready to get the girl home. Now that you’ve signed all of the paper work and handed over that fat check, you’re ready to get the car onto a trailer or into a moving van and get it home, where it belongs.

Have you ever considered what might happen if you have an accident on the way home? If you’re in an automobile accident or collision en route to your house or other garage where you plan on keeping your new baby, you could be in trouble.

Sure your standard automobile policy will cover damage to your daily driver car or delivery vehicle, but what about your classic car?  Read more... (622 words, estimated 2:29 mins reading time)