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We know that big thrills are associated with big risks. And this applies to riding a motorcycle as well. Wearing the right gear can help you prevent a serious injury. Therefore, you may want to invest in quality protective gear and use it before you get on your motorcycle. Given below is a description of important gear that you should buy and use. Read on.

Pants and Jackets

Wearing pants and a thick jacket will secure your skin in case of an accident. Ideally, the fabric should be durable, such as leather. If possible, put on a jacket that is designed for motorcyclists.

Aside from this, you can also put on body armor beneath the jacket. Make sure that the armor can satisfy the safety standards.

Avoid: A Dress or Skirt

Although you may like to wear a flowy skirt and a leather jacket, it can be quite dangerous. Remember: pants are your safest option when riding a motorbike.

Use a Helmet

You can find different types of helmets these days. If you are a new rider, we suggest that you invest in a helmet based on your consultation with your local expert. This will help you choose the right size and style based on your head shape and need.

If this is your first ride, we suggest that you rent a helmet from a local gear shop. For protection, make sure that the thing can fit snugly. You can try out different types of helmets at the shop. Make sure you choose the right one.

Avoid: Dark Clothing

It's not a good idea to wear dark clothing, especially if you need to ride your motorbike at night. Ideally, the jacket you are going to wear should feature reflective stripes. In the same way, your helmet should have reflective patches or stripes on it. This will help other riders or drivers see you easily at night.

Motorcycle Boots

Most motorcyclists want to wear cool and stylish boots when they are riding. However, stylish and cool shouldn't be the only features of your boots that you should focus on. Aside from this, your boots should also be solid and sturdy.

If they are sturdy, they won't bend in case of a crash and will keep your feet stable. Also, your boots should feature non-slip soles. Ideally, your boot should extend to the ankles.

Gloves

Gloves are your best choice as far as safety is concerned. They can protect your hands from a lot of weather elements like wind, sun and cold. Besides, they can help you develop a stronger grip on your motorbike handles.

Ideally, you may want to opt for gloves that can cover your hands and won't leave any part of your skin exposed. There is no need to mention that the gloves should be thick and strong enough to provide protection and stand the test of time.

If you have ever been injured in a motorcycle accident, do you know your legal rights after such a terrible incident has occurred? You are more subjected to bodily harm because you are riding with your body unprotected and therefore are more likely to sustain serious injuries after a cycle accident, What you should do after motorcycle accidents is to follow the following steps.

Make sure the police are involved and that there is a legal record of the accident.
You need to seek medical attention whether you feel you are seriously injured or not. There may be internal injuries you are not initially aware of. Some injuries after an accident do not show up immediately.

If you are able, photograph the accident, your injuries and the surrounding area. Your insurance company needs to have proof of the occurrence to ensure that you are properly compensated for the accident.

After you seek medical attention and have documented the injuries after a motorcycle accident, get the legal records of the incident and then contact an experienced accident lawyer.

A specialized motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to help you win your case. Your chances of an agreeable settlement are greater if you take pictures of the evidence. Any incriminating photographic evidence with your camera phone will be fine. The person who hit you will more than likely not take the blame for your sustained injuries. This is why it is important to have evidence that will uphold in a court of law.

After motorcycle accidents your life is sure to change because you may have injuries that can impair your activities or you have serious trauma from the incident. That is why it always best to get a motorcycle accident lawyer involved to reach the best settlement possible. You shouldn't have to suffer because of the fault of someone who didn't respect your space on the road as a motorcycle rider.

Make sure that you seek police, medical attention, and legal assistance. You have every right to be compensated for the injuries after a motorcycle accident which would be to keep evidence of your injuries with photographic pictures, and photos of damage to your motorcycle. It would even be wise to keep the clothes you had on that day and stress the fact that you were wearing a helmet. If you can find witnesses who saw the accident exchange information with them so they can help you in your case. Don't be a victim instead take action! Know ahead of time the proper actions to take during a motorcycle accident.

Contact The Law of Jeffrey S. Dawson today at 949/861-2191 for a free consultation to discuss your motorcycle accident injury case. Jeff Dawson is a uniquely qualified personal injury lawyer. He has worked on the other side, as well - for the insurance firms, and knows how they think. If you have been involved in an accident where you have suffered injuries, contact the law offices of Jeffrey S. Dawson to discuss your potential motorcycle accident lawsuit settlement.

It is well-known that motorized bicycles are both good for the world and also a person's finances. However, we will be perfectly frank - bikes that are utilizing gas driven motors have technically been shown to crank out unclean exhaust compared to their larger sized competitors. This is because of the loss of emission control systems, predominately as a result of the total area required to attach those things.

Still, in the event you do get a fuel powered bi-cycle, your impact on the environment will likely be well less than what's produced by the littlest of cars, so you'll be adding much less to the worlds' carbon emissions. This is simply because motorized bikes use less fuel, and may get approximately one hundred miles per gallon or even more, so the CO2 discharge are not at all comparable to that of a car or truck. Be that as it may, it is accurate that the smog is filthy, so you probably will not want to operate it in a garage!

With an electric powered drive mechanism your bicycle will release absolutely no smog while you're driving. The favorite way to go is usually a human-electric crossbreed bicycle, often referred to as a "pedelec". Even if taking into consideration the pollution that is produced to generate the electricity to power up a battery, electric bikes introduce only one-tenth of the greenhouse gasses that's normally introduced by using a vehicle a similar distance. This is lowered further by simply pedaling with a hybrid electric bicycle.

If it so happens that you prefer making use of a bicycle more but realize you are going with a vehicle, seriously consider buying a DIY electric bicycle system. As a result of adding an electric motor to an old and worn bicycle, it is possible to propel yourself like one usually would, and then effortlessly turn your handlebar for power when it's needed, like driving up a large hill.

You will find there are loads of remarkable benefits from regularly scheduled biking, including physical fitness and mental fitness. Simply by making one basic alteration in your lifestyle (for instance such as biking to work) now you could get the approved amount of day to day activity to be much healthier. Riding a bicycle grows muscle in your limbs, builds your tone of muscle, betters endurance, heightens aerobic well being, burns calories, boosts coordination, minimizes stress, increases youthfulness, etc., etc.!

When contemplating the extra money you can save by getting a motorized bicycle, all of us are likely to stop at the high gas prices. While that does aggregate to loads of cash as time passes, you will find there's quite a lot of various other ways biking could conserve you money as well. Beyond just not spending money on fuel, a motor-assisted cycle can actually compensate for a secondary automobile. Doing so not only saves a bunch with the upfront price tag of a car, but additionally considerably more capital over the years when bearing in mind the many other charges.

Whether you're a biker with a building hobby or a builder with a bike hobby, you probably dream about one day creating your dream motorcycle. There is nothing more satisfying than collecting each part, carefully selecting each premium piece, and finally putting it all together. However, if your building plan includes purchasing any used motorcycle parts, make it a priority to properly clean them before stowing them away for later use.

When you get your hands on a new bike part, road elements like dirt, oil, and grease must be completely removed. To get everything sparkling clean, you will need the right tools for the job. A cleaning brush with stiff bristles will do nicely. If you are cleaning a surface that has been painted, put that bristle brush down and pick up a textured rag: you don't want to scratch a stunning vintage paint job.

After purchasing a beautiful piece such as gears or a kickstand, make sure it is perfectly clean before you store it away. Head to your local auto store and pick up petroleum solvent and a basic engine cleaner. Look for one that is soap-based, as it will combine with the grease and dirt, making it water-soluble and easy to remove. Applying this directly to the metal will allow you to remove the majority of the dirt and grease with just a spray of water. If your bike piece is extremely dirty, give it a good soak in a bucket of the engine cleaner you purchased. Use your stiff bristle brush to take off the dirt and grease, and spray the rest off with water. Finish the cleaning by using your petroleum solvent. Just dip the part in petroleum solvent and clean off any remaining dirt or grease. This will return your part to mint condition.

While most are made with aluminum, steel, and other long-lasting elements, old motorcycle parts are still susceptible to rust and decomposition. Before packing things up, make sure that your parts are not only completely clean, but also perfectly dry as well. This will prevent rust from accumulating in the future. Paper towels or a rag will work nicely. If you want to get everything perfectly dry, you can use compressed air to ensure all water droplets are removed.

That said, don't turn down a prize bike piece just because it is already a little rusty. Rust removal can also be part of the restoration process. If this is necessary, begin with a thorough cleaning as described above. Then, using steel wool or a wire brush, gently sand away as much rust and corrosion as possible. Avoid altering the shape of the part. Complete the process by priming the piece with a rust-preventive coating such as paint.

When everything is rust-free, clean, and dry, you are finally ready to pack it away. Use airtight containers to prevent moisture from accumulating and creating more rust on the metal. Store your containers in a dark, cool location, and label them for ease of use. When the time comes to build your dream bike, your collection of motorcycle parts will be in mint condition.

Honda Motor Company is a Japanese multinational corporation producing automobiles, motorcycles and machinery. Honda bikes are generally passenger friendly guaranteeing safety, economy, durability, comfort and style. The KTM Sport motorcycle AG or simply KTM is a globally reputed motorcycle manufacturer based in Austria. KTM motorcycles are more known for their styling and off road capacity. Engine performance and fuel economy are also their highlighted features. Here is a review of their two entry level popular bikes seen nowadays - the CBR250R and the Duke 200 respectively.

In terms of styling, the CBR250R looks more cultured while KTM 200 is more modern and sharper. The CBR 250R is a fully faired, sporty looking motorcycle which has a racy design. On the other hand, KTM Duke 200 is a naked and aggressive looking bike with an urban styling. The visible difference is mainly the front fairing in the CBR which is not present in the Duke. The Honda bike has a comfortable sitting position while the KTM bike has a taller stance which may be uncomfortable during long rides. But the Duke is 20 kg lighter than CBR 250R.

Both the bikes are powered by a by a liquid cooled, four valve, DOHC engine though Honda bike has a higher displacement. CBR has a 249.6 cc displacement which is only 200 cc in KTM Duke. But this difference is not seen in the power and torque output. Both the motorcycles generate about 25 bhp of maximum power output and the torque figures are 22.9 Nm for CBR and 19 Nm for the Duke individually. The CBR 250R engine is smooth and refined with a long gearing. KTM Duke 200 is more aggressive with a shorter gearing.

The light weighted KTM Duke is no doubt easier to handle. Honda CBR 250R is heavier and also bigger in overall dimensions making it a difficult bike in city traffic. However the suspension in Honda bike is softer in CBR which is a blessing while riding over bumpy and potholed roads. The stiff suspension in the KTM bike is not a favourable one for Indian roads. And the overall ergonomics of the Duke 200 are not at all impressive because the foot pegs and the gear lever shifters are placed far away from each other unlike the CBR. Finally it can be said that KTM Duke is good only within the city boundaries, whereas Honda CBR 250R is a gentler motorcycle which can be used for long highway drives as well.

However Honda CBR 250R is dearer at a price tag of Rs 1.65 lakhs. KTM Duke 200 is relatively cheaper at Rs 1.37 lakhs.

Motorcycles open up a whole new world of driving. Not just a means to get from point A to point B, motorcycles allow drivers to navigate roads, paths, and trails only common cars could dream about. People fall in love with the sport and recreational fun of motorcycles for this reason and more. Although motorcycles are fun and exciting to ride, they are also very dangerous if handled negligently. Aside from motor vehicle accidents, weather and simple road obstacles are common unforeseen hazards that can put even the most experienced driver in danger. Continue reading to learn some helpful tips about safe motorcycle navigation on hazardous roads, as well as, who to call if you or a loved one has been negligently injured on a motorcycle.

Unpredictable Roads

There are several roads that take an unexpected turn, causing unexpected accidents and injuries. Twisty roads, loose gravel, rock beds, unleveled surfaces, mud, and more are common obstacles that motorcyclists must look out for. Gravel roads, in particular, are very difficult to brake on properly, especially for novice cyclists. One of the most frequent occurrences from riding motorcycles on gravel roads is flat tires. Although a flat tire is not a scary situation, it can be dangerous if a tire blows out while riding on dangerous roads. This can make a driver lose control, swerve, slide of the road, and wreck their bike. Often times, motorcycle accidents like this cause serious injury or death. To combat this type of road surface, simply keep steady and maintain your speed. Have your hands firmly gripped to the handlebars, but in a relaxed manner. Also, keep your distance from other vehicles, and wear your helmet shield in order to protect your eyes from flying rock or gravel. Remember, staying in motion gives drivers a better chance at stability. This means, do not panic and brake instantly when you reach gravel or rocky roads.

Muddy roads are a huge problem for motorcyclists because bikes are nearly impossible to navigate in these conditions. The best way to avoid an accident is to avoid riding on a muddy road altogether. If the road is only slightly muddy, then simply use caution and drive slowly to avoid slipping or sliding. If the bike does begin to sleep, immediately take your hand off the gas, but do not brake, and allow the bike to re-stabilize on its own.

For meandering and winding roads, like in hills or mountain ranges, it is safer to drive slower as well. It requires ample practice and experience to learn the skills of accurate timing and best judgment required to navigate twisty or narrow roads on a motorcycle. For novice bikers, it is recommended to start on small hills and practice using good timing and navigational judgment while taking turns and twists. You will eventually learn how to set up for a curve. Ride to the outside edge, and then lean through the curve and follow it at its widest angle. As the apex approaches, throttle and speed up just enough to straighten out the bike as you come out of the curve. This skill takes years of driving experience to perfect.

If you or a loved one has been recently injured in a motorcycle accident caused by the negligence of another, contact a licensed motorcycle accident lawyer right away. You or your family might be entitled to compensation for your suffering and damages. Motorcycle safety is vital for everyone. If you enjoy riding on the open road, be sure you are protected with proper gear, licensing, insurance, and driver knowledge.

Keeping your motorcycle up and running is dependent on each part that does its own function well. For this, they need to be maintained perfectly. One such indispensable component is the battery. Often, it is taken for granted and not enough care is taken on time. Let us examine what steps need to be considered in this regard.

To begin with, where you park your motorcycle for long periods is key. Out in the open, there is always the risk of the bike, and especially the battery, having to brave the elements. The rains, in particular, can be very damaging if it is for a prolonged period. The moisture can seep in through the rubber seals on the battery panel and effect corrosion. Besides the monsoons, extreme cold can also be an enemy to your battery. A sharp drop in outside temperature could drain the battery and require recharging.

If the place where you park your bike is important, equally so is how you place the battery in the bike. Ensure that it is securely tightly and is not subject to moving or rattling with the movement of the vehicle. If not strapped, it can result in the body getting bumps and the water in the unit spilling. Remember, exposure of the acid within the battery to the bike's body can lead to the paint getting spoilt or corrosion happening.

Likewise, subjecting the battery to too much cocooning can also be bad for it. While protection is required, there should also be adequate air circulation. The hydrogen that gets produced inside the battery, in the absence of proper ventilation, can result in something as serious as an explosion also. The holes provided for circulation of air should be kept free and unhindered so that the cells in the battery can function without fail.

As for the battery's life, the maintenance required should not be ignored. From time to time, the terminals should be given ample greasing. To ensure that there is no build up of dirt or grime, it should also be cleaned from time to time.

Finally, batteries may require maintenance over and above the cleaning and greasing. The water inside does the job of keeping the cells working smoothly. Ensure that only distilled water is used to top up the battery levels as per the minimum and maximum mark displayed on the electrolyte indicator.

If available, a voltmeter can be put to use to check and test the running of the battery. Not only is it important to have one that is always in top working condition, but also to make sure that it will have a long and productive life ahead.

From a time when there were hardly a handful of car and motorcycle models plying in our cities to the modern day era when there is a never ending plethora of auto brands inundating our streets, things have changed tremendously. If this signifies a more prosperous population enjoying the benefits of a better lifestyle, it also is bad news in another respect.

Our cities and our roads are no longer safe. There are more traffic jams and more accidents all around. The worst affected out of all mishaps that happen in our streets are two wheelers. So what are some basic city riding safety tips we can look at?

1. Your bike may be fast and powerful. But speed can be your number one enemy on the road. It doesn't matter that you have excellent control of your bike. Mistakes can happen to the best of riders. Also, road condition may not be good at all. Equally unpredictable can be the driving skills and discipline of other drivers around you. It is better to exercise safe riding rather than risk your life.

2. Roads have an equal number of bigger vehicles. Given the crowded situation, the best course of action to take is to stick to one's lane. Bigger vehicles like buses and cars would be driving faster. So bikes should keep to the left lane to avoid any skirmishes.

3. The cardinal rue of safe driving or riding is not to mix drinking with it. Never ever get behind the wheel or handle if you have had even a drop of alcohol. Quite understandably, alertness of the highest order is needed while on the road. There is no room for compromise on this.

4. Equally critical a rule is not to ever use mobiles while riding a bike. Any communication that comes in the way of riding is dangerous. It is all the more risky when it happens in the form of talking on mobiles. You may have to either take off your helmet or slip in the handset to your ear. Both of these are unacceptable.

5. Another tip on safety while riding a bike in the city is to avoid tailgating. Often it is seen on Indian roads that there is a penchant to get too close to the vehicle in front. This results in very little distance between the two drivers and leads to a mishap due to shortage of braking space and time. Adequate distance should be maintained, whether to the front or back or to the side.

6. Finally, never ride without a helmet. It is the most elementary mistake that a rider can make. Always strap up before getting on to the bike.

You own the road. That's why you bought a motorcycle in the first place. The freedom that comes with riding is unlike any other; the open sky, the wind between your knuckles, the escape from society. However, with greater freedom comes even greater responsibilities. Read on for important tips on DIY motorcycle repair, maintenance, and how to keep your bike rollin' forever.

Follow Ownership Manual Recommendations

I'd be willing to bet that the people who built your sled know a little more than you when it comes to the inner workings of your bike. You wouldn't deprive a horse from water during a long ride, would you? The same principles apply when it comes to maintaining a healthy bike. Always refer to the manual's recommendations, which advise you on oil type (weight), service procedures, maintenance schedules, and more. Use it or lose it, man!

Break Your Engine In Right

The most critical miles on your horse are the first few hundred. If you mishandle or abuse your bike during these early stages, you'll regret it later. Each bike comes with its own set of procedures for engine breaking. Some may be as ambiguous as "Take it easy," while others may be more specific with complex directions that involve RPM limits and the like. Nevertheless, chill out and let the wind do the talking.

Change The Oil

This one's a no-brainer, right? Wrong. So many riders become so busy staring at the endless sky that they forget to regularly change their oil. See your sled's manual for specific instructions on how to do this and for scheduling intervals.

Air Em' Up

Keeping the right tire pressure will help save your bike's chassis. It'll also help save you money at the pump. Who doesn't want that? But the most important reason why you need to maintain the correct tire pressure is because it's downright dangerous to ride on soft tires. Soft tires mean less traction, and less traction could lead to an accident. Be safe and keep those tires checked!

Grease Your Bearings

Some riders think that only motocross bikes need greasy bearings. That is not true! Whereas the sealed bearings are relatively maintenance free, exposed areas like suspension linkages need regular care. Keep em' greasy, and your ride stays sleazy.

Check Your Drivetrain

Oiling your bike and greasing your bearings make up two-thirds of your sled's overall health. But to keep your bike running smoothly at optimum performance, you need to keep up on the drivetrain (the chain, belt, or shaft that connects the engine to the transmission). A worn out chain, tethered belt, or beat up shaft can ruin your bike. Check these for excessive oil deposits regularly; if you're not sure what to look for, take it in to a motorcycle repair shop for a checkup.

Ride Right, Ride Smart

Gunning the engine in order to feel your sled's awesome power race through your spine is one thing, but blatantly breaking local speed laws and general rules of safety doesn't make you cool. Nobody wants to share the road with a clown. Additionally, you'll get years more of pleasure out of your bike by treating it good. Always obey traffic laws and just ride smart. Your motorcycle repair shop will love you for it.

The Indian scooter industry has come a long way. Many of the newly launched scooters have fuel-economies matching those of the more powerful bikes. A lot of buyers, both male and female, are seeing scooters as a new style statement as their designs are getting better and swankier with every passing year. The scooters are getting better technology and cutting-edge tools and their power figures are getting better.

Yamaha Motors has realised that India is a potent market for scooters and they had announced in a press report that they would be concentrating on their scooter segment in India. The Japanese automobile giant is all set to make its debut in the 125 cc scooter category with a new scooter. Yamaha currently offers three scooters - Alpha, Ray and Ray-z - all with a 113 cc engine. The scooter industry in India is currently being led by Honda with their scooters from the Activa, Aviator and Dio series.

The new scooter, now codenamed as 04X, will see the light most probably by mid-2015. The new Yamaha scooter will be produced at Yamaha's upcoming manufacturing facility at Chennai from April 2015. As per a source, Yamaha will be producing more than 10,000 scooters annually from this facility.

Though the specifications are still under wraps, the 04X is expected to be powered by a new air-cooled fuel injected engine with a power displacement of 125 cc. The power and torque figures and other technical details are unknown at present. The fuel mileage of this scooter is expected to be around 54 kmpl which is quite remarkable. It will also be an environment friendly scooter as its auto emissions will be significantly lower. The price and specifications are expected to be similar to the recently launched Nozza Grande, which was codenamed as 08X in Vietnam, and is powered by an air cooled and fuel injected engine.

Though the scooter is designed to appeal more to the young female population, the all-new 125 cc scooter may also attract the male population as this scooter has a high displacement engine.

The 04X is expected to come in attractive colours like most of its fellow scooter brands. It is also expected to come within an affordable price range of Rs 55000 to Rs 65000. Honda Activa 125 and Suzuki's Access and Swish, the Vespa LX125 and Mahindra Two Wheelers' Rodeo and Flyte seem to be its potential rivals in this particular segment. But with its fresh looks and overall build quality along with the trusted brand name, Yamaha can be assured of a secured place in the highly competitive scooter market.

Modern day biking is all about speed and style. Continental GT is one such simple, yet contemporary, fun to ride sports bike, which arouses memories of a highly stylized bygone era. It is basically a cafe racer which really shows what it is capable of. Continental GT is much more than just getting you from one point to another. This racer bike is owned by the prestigious Royal Enfield Motors based at Gurgaon who has produced a series of excellent bikes in India. The Continental GT made its debut in the year 2012 at the Delhi Auto Expo and was on the roads by the end of 2013. Royal Enfield Continental GT is one bike which has a great demand in other markets across the world as well.

Royal Enfield bikes are known for their high power engines. Royal Enfield Continental GT is powered by a single cylinder, 4 stroke and air cooled UCE engine with a displacement of 535 cc. It is mated to a 5 speed manual constant mesh transmission gear box and has a digital electronic ignition. The engine can churn out a peak power of 29.1 bhp at 5100 rpm and releases torque of 44 NM at 4000 rpm. The fuel tank has a maximum capacity of 13.5 litres. It has a light, wet multi-plate type clutch. The light clutch and five speed gearbox ensure good ride ability. This 535 cc motorcycle gets brembo disc brake in the front and bybre disc at the rear which gives it excellent stopping power. The top speed at which a Continental GT can be driven is 142 kilometres per hour. It has a kerb weight of 184 kilograms.

The bike is truly an eye-catcher, with an exposed steel frame and a masculine retro silhouette. The much traditional Royal Enfield lettering in plain white on the elongated and bright coloured fuel tank add to the visual appeal. It features low slung racing handlebars, single-person humped seat, tubeless tyres and wheel rims. The instrument cluster has an analogue speedometer and tachometer and a digital trip meter and fuel gauge.

Bright red and GT yellow are the 2 colours offered in this bike normally. Two more colours have been added more recently. Continental GT is a pretty expensive bike at Rs 2.05 lakhs which may go up even more depending on the additional features opted and place of purchase. Furthermore, this is only an approximate price exclusive of tax, registration, insurance and other related costs. But with more money in the hands of middle class families, such bikes are nowadays ever more seen on the roads. Continental GT is definitely the correct choice for those looking out for style and splendour.

Are you a fan of mean speed machines that set the pulse racing? Then there could be few adventures as fulfilling and exciting as a motorcycling trip down a trodden trek which is known to delight!

Nevertheless, you must make sure that you get it right right from the word go.

Let's run through a checklist that you must bear in mind before hitting the road for that much longed for road trip with your friends.

A drawback you are likely to have to put up with is that a motorbike is unlikely to offer you the same storage capacity as in line with a car. A conventional motorbike would let you carry a nice rucksack over your shoulders and a saddle bag for some additional storage.

Now you are sure to find some chic options for the saddle bags. A hard saddle bag is sure to look suave and stylish, as it shines in the sun. But suede is equally charming and impressive.

Another very common type of storage accessory for your bike is tank bags. Tanks bags may not be as common as saddle bags, but these are placed directly over the top of fuel tanks.

A tank bag may even have a glassy window which displays maps.

If it is weather protection which forms a constraint, harder bags are the right option to go for. But these need more time for installation.

If you require even more storage space, you may consider going for tail bags.

We can now run through the inspection checklist. The T-CLOCS method is a fine way to inspect your bike just before you get set for your journey.

    T: Tires. The tires should be well inflated. If you carry a pressure monitor with you, that should meet its purpose. If you feel that a tire might need replacement while the journey lasts, why not have it replaced!

    C is for controls. Are your entire clutch, brakes and cables operating well?

    L stands for lights. Make sure that high and low beam lights, turn indicators and tail light are all in excellent condition.

    O is for oils and fluids. You must check everything, starting from engine oil, coolant and brake fluid.

    C: Chassis. Frame, chain and fasteners should all be intact and in a great working condition.

    S: Stands. The side stands and centre stand should both not be cracked or bent. Stand springs should be in an excellent condition, such that these hold the assembly away from the pavement when you set the bike into motion.

A full faced helmet is sure to offer better protection. This is not just from accidents but also elements of nature. Refuel frequently to make sure you reach your destination with ease.

Do you own a motorcycle? If so, you know that riding this two wheeler provides a phenomenal experience. When it comes to riding a motorcycle, safety should be our number one priority. After all, you can enjoy life only when you are alive. Therefore, nothing can be more important than wearing a helmet before leaving for a journey on your bike. Before you get your hands on a helmet, make sure you do some research. Below are some helpful tips to help you.

Types of helmets

Helmets that are designed for motorcycles are rounder than those designed for bikes. Moreover, you have a lot of options to choose from, such as open face helmet, modular helmet, half shell helmet, dual sport and full face helmets, just to name a few. You can choose one based on your needs.

Purpose

If you need one for your daily commute to work, make sure you go for a high end helmet. These units are comfortable and provide improved dynamics in addition to reduced noise of the wind. As a matter of fact, versatility and comfort are two things that you need for traveling, riding or touring. On the other hand, if you need one for racing or riding, you may want to go for one that offers extra features, such as aggressive venting and tear off posts.

Features

Following features should be considered when making a choice.

1. Material

The material of the unit you buy effects other factors, such as the weight, safety rating and comfort. Common materials used in the making include carbon fiber, fiberglass composite and polycarbonate along with a layer of expanded polystyrene foam. Polycarbonate is cheap, flexible and absorbs energy. Fiberglass composite may flex, split and crush as it absorbs energy, but it costs more. So, make sure you know what your unit is composed of.

2. Weight

The weight of helmets is between 1.4 kg and 1.8kg. Make sure the one you choose properly fits. If the weight of the unit is not even on your head, it may feel heavy on your shoulders and head. Your neck may also get strained. Unlike a Full Face, modular units weight more.

Other features

Nowadays, helmets provide many technological features, such as communication provisions, wind reduction measures and integrated sunshade, to name a few. These features improve you riding experience.

Additional Safety Features

You may also want to ensure that your unit has extra safety features, such as emergency cheekpad release system. This system allows you to take off the helmet in case of a medical need.

Price

Often, the price of a helmet is based on the features and materials. In short, if you opt for an expensive unit, you can enjoy better technology, comfort and protection. However, even if you spend a bit less, you can still get a decent unit.

So, if you are going to invest in a good motorcycle helmet, we suggest that you consider the tips given in this article. Hope this helps.

A lot has been written about the comparison of technical specifications and design of both Royal Enfield and Jawa, but in this article I am going to discuss the points that are likely to influence the decision of buyers when they choose between the two legendary motorcycles.

Competing with RE is not going to be easy for Jawa as the legendary bikemaker is a force to reckon with in the Indian motorcycling scene. It takes a lot more than just a good price, a superior engine specs and a classic design to beat Royal Enfield in its own backyard.

Iconic and legendary, RE is much more than the technical specifications it offers. As an ardent Royal Enfield rider I can say this with conviction that the motorcycle has a very special place in hearts and souls of its riders and all those who aspire to own it someday. It's a feeling that cannot be expressed in words, it can only be felt when you ride it and feel the thump of its exhaust. To sum it up, "Royal Enfield is a feeling". I am sure that similar is the case with the ardent fans of legendary Jawa.

Jawa is not only back but back with a bang and they mean business. The launch has stirred a debate with respect to its inevitable comparison with another legend that has been ruling the Indian roads like a boss, the iconic RE. Jawa always knew that they are going to compete with Royal Enfield directly, so they have come prepared and launched, not one, not two but three motorcycles, the Jawa, the Forty Two and the Perak (Perak will be available around mid-2019) to take on the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Standard 350, and Thunderbird 350 with premium features and excellent engine specs. Perak being a Bobber has no direct competition in the market in its price and category. Perak surely is a winner at Jawa's hand when it will be available next year provided Royal Enfield doesn't launch a Bobber in coming couple of months before Perak becomes available... You never know.

Below are some of the factors that may influence the decision of the buyers who looking to own one of these legends.

    Royal Enfield has enjoyed a cult following in India for generations. BULLET has always been considered a symbol of machismo right from grandfather to grandsons who covet the legend and ride one with pride. On the other hand Jawa missed a whole generation of bikers who never rode it and have almost forgotten that this legend once graced Indian roads and was a worthy competitor of Royal Enfield. During all those years that Jawa lost, RE built a loyal customer base which gives it a big edge over Jawa. During all those years Royal Enfield expanded its reach, range of models and upgraded its engines, came up with merchandise and modernized its dealerships. It will take a lot of time and effort for Jawa to fill that gap.
    RE has a very wide spread network (More than 800 dealerships) that will not be easy for Jawa to match right away though they have started with 105 dealerships, out of which 64 will be operational by the first week of December 2018 as per the Classic Legends.
    Repair and availability of spare parts of Royal Enfield is not a big deal these days as in last 2 decades the company has developed a dealer networks which is spread to the farthest corners of India and can only be matched perhaps by carmaker Maruti Suzuki. Due to this, they manage to sell huge numbers of motorcycles year after year. So much so that when other motorcycle manufactures begin to feel the heat of low market sentiments RE motorcycles sell with a waiting period of 3-4 months.
    There is no doubt that Jawa is technically superior to Royal Enfield, and I give full credit to Jawa here, which beats RE engine hands down with its Engine Specifications. With its 293 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine that develops 27 Bhp and 28 Nm, which clearly gives then an edge over Royal Enfield 350 Classic that sports a 346 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled motor that makes 19.8 Bhp and 28 Nm. Jawa engine despite being lower capacity, produces more power and its torque is same as produced by Royal Enfield 350 cc engine. Jawa's engine is Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) with liquid-cooling and a higher compression ratio of 11:1, as compared to the RE's 8.5:1. Both motorcycle come with an ABS. Jawa sports a single-channel ABS as standard, while the Royal Enfield offers dual-channel ABS. Both the motorcycles sport classic designs but Jawa has used some modern cues in their Forty Two Model to give it an urban-retro look.
    Royal Enfield has a definite price advantage as its lower end range of Bullet Twinspark 350 starts as low as 1.20 Lac and even the Classic 350 range including Gunmetal Grey and Classic Signals 350 with ABS is very competitively priced at 1.55 lacs and comes in the same price bracket as Jawa and Forty Two.

I think it's a wait and watch situation because it's definitely going to be a battle of giants that is going to benefit riders. It's good for the bikers that Royal Enfield's supremacy is challenged as this will result in enhancements in its quality and cut throat pricing which may follow next year.

We all fall under the same trapdoor, we want to buy a perfect or great bike for ourselves but most of the time, we are completely lost with the kind of bikes that would suit us and why it should be in the list of contention too. We want to own a stunning bike, but where do you even start from? What bike would you choose first? Would it be apt to start with the engine specs you want or the fuel efficiency? It is never going to be easy, but the option to get all of this on your list is spot on.

What are the first few things you would have to add to your list and more importantly, how would you decide before you even start a bike comparison? When you compare bikes, you need to ace out the top few things you feel would be most important for you as a user. What features you would want to get onto the list of the most important features?

Engine capacity: This is without doubt the first thing you add because it means you have the basic and most important part of your bike decided - the engine. You would want to base this on the kind of person you are. Do you want a really super powered bike that is going to fill your need for speed or do you compare two wheelers completely on design? That pretty much defines so much of what you think is perfect for yourself. When you have a bike comparison with the engine capacity right on top, you are keeping yourself as grounded as it gets. If you are looking for use in a city, you want a bike that is not really powerful but enough to get you through the traffic and jams. So something below 400cc at all times makes perfect logic. Anything more and you might be asking for too much.

Design and styling: No way you can keep this out of any two wheeler comparison, but if you have a good looking bike - you are bound to have heads turning. Any bike enthusiast would have this right on the top of the list because you need it to look good and keep the feel on the road. Depending on the kind of person you are, decide between sporty, placid and cruiser. These are the top three to choose from.

Costing and fuel efficiency: This is completely on the kind of wallet you have and how much you are willing to splurge on. If you have a deep pocket that is willing to go the distance, you can be spending anywhere close to 1.5L on a good bike and any bike comparison India will give you a decent list out of that lot. Make sure you are looking at healthy mileages because you do not want to spend excessively on a bike's fuel. Compare bike options that gives you similar mileage for the closest comparisons.

The best bike comparison would have these few points covered and at the end of the day, that defines a great bike that you buy. You need to bike compare before you make the most important choice - so do it right and do the ride!