Motorcycle Insurance Tips

Motorcycle Insurance Tips

In many states, it is mandatory to have insurance on your motorcycle. In addition to covering any loans on the bike, the insurance is designed to cover medical bills for personal injury as well as for collision costs. Even if motorcycle insurance isn’t mandatory in your state, it is still a good idea to have it. You never know when you may need it. Many people think motorcycle insurance is too expensive to have, but it is really affordable. There are some great tips to help you get the best possible rate.

If you haven’t taken a motorcycle safety course, you should. Not only will it help you become a better motorcycle rider, it will also help you earn a discount on your motorcycle insurance. This is because motorcycle companies feel an informed rider is less likely to make common mistakes or to indulge in reckless behaviors. If you currently have any kind of insurance on your home or other vehicles, that particular company will likely offer you a significant discount on insurance coverage for your motorcycle.

When comparing motorcycle insurance rates, make sure you are comparing apples against apples. This simply means you should only compare the cost once you have determined what the insurance covers. Ask for information about he dollar amount of coverage as well as the deductible amount. A deductible is the amount you will have to pay out of pocket for each claim filed before the insurance will pay the remainder.

If you are able to store your motorcycle inside a storage unit or garage, then do so. Most insurance companies will give you additional discounts for your motorcycle being in a secure location that reduces the chances of it getting hit, vandalized, stolen, or damaged by the natural elements. Many insurance companies will give you an added discount if you won’t be riding your motorcycle during severe winter months. This is a great option for those of you who live in colder parts of the world. However, keep this coverage in mind because you will likely be tempted to get that bike out when a warm spell appears for a few days during the winter months.

Keeping a clean driving record both in your motor vehicles and on your motorcycle will save you a great deal of money on your motorcycle insurance. Insurance companies love to reward those who have remained a low risk. They also want to keep your business. If you have paid your premiums on time for six months and have not have any claims or moving violations, then contact your insurance company and ask for them to review your policy for a lower price. Many insurance companies will automatically do this upon renewal of your policy, but if you have an annual policy then you should contact them after six months.

If you are just learning to ride a motorcycle but don’t have a valid motorcycle license yet, you may want to consider purchasing Learner Motorcycle Insurance. This is a great way to ensure you are covered in the event of an injury or accident. While this type of insurance is going to cost you more than basic motorcycle insurance, you can’t put a price tag on safety.

The internet is a great place to look for motorcycle insurance as well. Some insurance companies don’t offer motorcycle coverage while others specialize in it. The internet gives you a convenient place to enter your information once and then receive quotes by email from various insurance companies. This definitely reduces the amount of time you will spend on the process as well as allows you to easily compare rates.

Having motorcycle insurance is a good idea regardless of it being mandatory in your state or not. While operating any type of motor vehicle comes with a risk, you can help lower the financial risk involved in operating one by covering the cost of damages and medical expenses should you be involved in an accident.

Electric Scooters

Many people love the freedom of riding a motorcycle as well as the economical value it offers, especially now with fuel costs at an all time high. However, some people just aren’t comfortable operating a motorcycle. A great alternative is to choose an electric scooter. They are also very economically as well as easy to operate. This is a great option for riding around town. I know many parents who compromise purchasing their teenager a scooter rather than an actual motorcycle. Scooters also cost less than a motorcycle. 

Safety is still a necessity while operating an electric scooter. It is important that you wear a helmet as well as long sleeved shirts and pants to prevent road rash. You also need to follow the rules of the road. Too many people have the misconception that a scooter can be operated like a bicycle rather than a motor vehicle on the road. In many states you have to obtain a motorcycle license to legally operate one on the street. Children must be the legal age to drive one as determined by their state regulations.

Electric scooters are frequently referred to as mopeds as well. They are very environmentally friendly so you don’t have to worry about pollution issues. Many of the features on these scooters are similar to those of a motorcycle including the seat, brakes, tires, and turn signals. While scooters are definitely easier to learn to ride, they won’t offer you the same speed as a motorcycle. Don’t expect to get on one and take off like the wind. You also won’t want to ride them on the highway or interstate as they just aren’t designed for that type of speed or travel.

Depending on the type of electric scooter you purchase, you can anticipate spending from $200 to $1,000. The prices are very reasonable, so that your time finding one that fits you perfectly. There are many styles and colors available from a variety of manufacturers. Many women love operating a scooter as opposed to a motorcycle because of the weight difference. 

You will also find scooters that feature a stand up or a sit down design. The younger kids definitely seem to favor the stand up type but it certainly isn’t going to be comfortable when you are on it for a length of time. You also won’t have the storage space if you need to carry anything with you. 

Most electric scooters require very little maintenence, further adding to your transportation savings. In most cases you will be able to do the basic maintenance and even repairs on your own. You may be wondering how fuel efficient an electric scooter is. While the specific savings will vary by model, many of them can get 60 miles per gallon of fuel. 

Since electric scooters don’t take up much space and they are light weight, may college kids prefer to use one instead of a car. They can even ride it around campus and secure it on the bike rack. Most of them can get up to 30 MPH so a quick trip to town or the grocery store is even possible with one. 

Electric scooters have continued to grow in popularity in areas where the fuel is high and the weather is nice most of the year. Consumers are looking for an economical means of transportation and they have found in with electric scooters. You can find a great deal of information about them on the internet as well as motorcycle and electric stores. 

Motorcycles by Honda

Motorcycles by Honda

Soichiro Honda, the developer of Honda motorcycles, didn’t set out to manufacture them. In fact, his passion was vehicles. He also loved the idea of driving fast and enjoyed racing. He worked from the time he was a teenager in an auto repair shop, so he had a great understanding of the mechanical end of things. He also owned a Harley and an Indian, giving him plenty of motorcycle riding experience.

In 1928, Honda opened his own repair shop. As a hobby he also indulged in building race cars. He did not start the Honda Motor Company until he was 41 years old in 1948. They manufactured several two stroke and four stroke motorcycle models. He focused on the areas of quality and design, offering well made products to compete in the industry.

While the motorcycle sells continued to rise over the next two decades, the company almost went under in 1953. This was due to the end of the Korean War and economic depression in Japan. However, they continued to sell a small amount of motorcycles and continue production. The main reason Honda did not close the factory was because he did not want to see more people out of work.

It was a good choice as by 1958 Honda was again profitable. In July of that year they introduced the C100 Super Cub which is known as the most successful motorcycle in the world. It was marketed as a cheap and versatile model that could be used by anyone. The bike featured a four stroke motor and a three speed transmission. The bike was very easy for new motorcycle riders to operate as well. Women even used it as a means of commuting. As a result, Honda became the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world by 1959.

Honda decided this was a good time to think about international expansion. They focused on Asia and Europe instead of the United States. This is because they felt there was too much competition with American made bikes to be profitable. However, the decision was made to come to the United States because Honda felt if the American people accepted their models, then it would set precedence for the rest of the world to do so.

The first Honda retail store in the United States was based in Los Angeles, California; opening its doors in June of 1959. Honda fought hard to promote their products in the United States with a positive image. This ploy worked well, and Honda had more than 75 successful dealerships in the United States by 1960.

Honda is also credited with establishing the Motorcycle Industry Council and the Motorcycle Safety Council. They provided half of the funding needed to start both organizations. Their community involvement was noticed and highly appreciated by the motorcycle enthusiasts of the United States, resulting in more trust in Honda products.

Throughout the 1970’s Honda continued to rule the motorcycle industry, developing new motorcycles that people around the world couldn’t get enough of. They also got a reputation for the fastest bikes around, as their models won more than 70 high profile races around the world in 1973. In 1975 Honda took another leap that paid off well for them. They introduced the GL1000 Gold Wing as a touring bike. It brought a whole new level of comfort and style to touring bikes that other manufacturers quickly copied.

Since then, Honda has continued to produce innovative motorcycle models that appeal to the various cultures around the world. They have also continued to invest in the public interest. Honda donates thousands of motorcycles to worthy causes each year. They also help fund motorcycle training courses to help ensure motorcyclists have the best information to operate their bikes safely.

Honda has proven themselves to be a manufacturer of reliable motorcycles for the past several decades. They are among the top sellers in the motorcycle industry because of their unique designs, long lasting equipment, and low cost motorcycle models. While they have taken some huge risks over the years, they have helped them to build the successful motorcycle empire they have today.

Motorcycle Safety

Riding on a motorcycle is fun and exciting. Nothing feels better on a warm afternoon then being on one, feeling the light breeze and the sun as you travel. However, it is vital that you take motorcycle safety very seriously as it only takes a second for you to be involved in an accident. Keep in mind that you don’t have the protection of a vehicle around you. Your motorcycle and your body are going to come into direct contact with another vehicle as well as the road. 

Most accidents involving motorcycles are the result of another vehicle not being able to see the motorcycle. I can remember one of the scariest moments in my life involved my husband on a motorcycle. He was about a mile ahead of me and I was traveling in my car with our children. My husband went to pass a semi truck. As he was preparing to go around the semi truck decided to pass the car in front of him. He put on his signal light and my husband had to get to the shoulder to avoid being hit. The semi truck driver never knew he was there. 

The lesson here is for both the motorcycle rider and for other vehicles. Make sure you look for motorcycles behind you and on the side of you before you make a move. This is especially true during times of warmer weather. Motorcycle riders need to drive attentively, understanding that other vehicle drivers won’t always be able to see them. 

Operating a motorcycle doesn’t mean you have any special privileges on the streets or the highways. I think I speak for most of us when I say that we have all seen reckless driving involving motorcycles. I have been passed on the right shoulder more times than I can count. I few times traffic has been at a complete stop when a motorcycle operator decides to weave in and out of traffic to get ahead of the mess. 

Motorcycle riders often travel together, and they like to ride side by side. This is a safety hazard for everyone. Each rider needs to remain in single file and pay attention to what is going on around them. This also needs no wheelie tricks or excessive speeds while traveling. 

It is very important to always wear eye protection and a helmet when you are riding on a motorcycle. In many states, it is mandatory. It is very easy to get a bug, dust, or other debris in your eye while riding a motorcycle if you don’t have eye protection on. A helmet can save your life as a head injury will be less likely than without one. 

It is a good idea to always wear a long sleeved shirt and pants while riding a motorcycle as well. They will offer you protection from road rash and debris. If you ride your motorcycle at night make sure your headlight works properly and that you have on reflective tape or clothing. 

Many motorcycle accidents are the result of road conditions. Pay attention to the road and watch for areas of spills, sand, water, or foreign items. We have all seen boards, wood pieces, and even furniture on the road. Can you imagine hitting such an object with a motorcycle? Likewise, watch for such items being hit by another vehicle and becoming airborne. Never ride your motorcycle in rain, sleet, or snow. The risk is too great.

Operating a motorcycle is a great way to spend your leisure time. It is also a very cost effective way of commuting to and from work. Operating a motorcycle is also a responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. You need to be more assertive and observant of your surroundings on a motorcycle than you do when operating a car. Make sure you have plenty of experience on how your motorcycle functions before you attempt to ride it in a location where there are other vehicles. 

Motorcycles Designed for Women

Motorcycles Designed for Women

Most motorcycles are designed with men in mind, and it is true that they are the majority of the operators. However, there are many women who want to do more with a motorcycle than just ride on the back of it. Finding a motorcycle designed to fit a woman is more difficult and the choices are limited. However, it is very possible to find one if you know what to look for. More and more motorcycle manufacturers are becoming aware of this market.

For too long female motorcycle owners have been stereotyped as reckless women wearing all leather, smoking and drinking with a wild gang of bikers. Approximately 10% of motorcycle owners are women, and many more are interested in purchasing one. These women come from all walks of life. Some of them enjoy the thrill of riding their own bike while others find it a very economical way of commuting each day. The majority of women who do own motorcycles are in their 30’s, they have a family, and they are educated.

More than 80% of the motorcycles women purchase are cruiser models. Sports motorcycles are also very popular. Women prefer a motorcycle that is lighter weight, but they still want the power males crave with many motorcycle models. Today, many of the major motorcycle manufacturers are providing women with options for motorcycles that are light weight yet fast. These manufacturers include Harley Davidson, Suzuki, Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha.

Harley Davidson offers three models designed specifically for women – the Sportster, DynaGlider Low-Rider, and the XL 1200 Custom. Kawasaki offers women dirt bikes including the Ninja 500R and the ZZR600. Honda has followed suit with the Nighthawk 250CC and the Rebel 250CC. Suzuki offers the 650 Savage, Marauder 800CC, and the 800 Intruder.

If you are considering purchasing a motorcycle designed specifically for a woman, then these models give you plenty to choose from. Make sure you take your time and find the one that fits your body correctly. Sit on the motorcycle and make sure your feet are able to touch the ground on both sides. Make sure it is light enough that you can handle it. If you are struggling with it, then pass it over as you will have difficult controlling it on the road. Look for a motorcycle with a low, narrow seat. You also want long handle bars so that you can ride the motorcycle comfortably. If you plan to ride your motorcycle a great deal, you may consider having one custom built to fit your style and body.

Keep in mind that motorcycles for women are available in models that are recommended for a new rider and some that are for a more experienced operator. Make sure you take this into consideration while you are contemplating the motorcycle to purchase.

There are many online motorcycle clubs for women and magazines as well. Most of them are operated by other female motorcycle owners. This is a great place to ask questions and get valuable information as you look for one of your own. Online websites for female motorcycle owners are a great place to meet other women and to find out about various events and motorcycle rallies. You can even help set up a motorcycle event in your area. Fit out how other female motorcycle owners enjoy their bike. This is also a great place to find out reviews on various models and even to find used bikes for sale.

The stereotype of a “biker chick” is still in the minds of many people, but you would be surprised how many women have passed you on their motorcycle. It is often hard to tell if they are wearing a helmet. As the number of female motorcycle owners continues to grow, you can be sure there will be more models to select from. Manufacturers aren’t going to pass up this target population. The American Motorcyclist Association now has 265,000 registered female motorcycle owners, proving this to be more than a passing fad.

Should I Allow My Teenager to Get a Motorcycle

As teenagers get older, the prospect of soon being able to drive on their own is very exciting for them. However, it can be a complete nightmare for a parent. Many teenagers start asking for a motorcycle rather than a passenger vehicle as this type approaches. Should you allow your teenager to get a motorcycle? This can be a hard decision to make and one that shouldn’t be make quickly.

There are a few advantages to allowing your teenager to have a motorcycle. For one, they will only be able to have one other passenger with them. That is if you allow it. Some parents make the rule of no passengers for the first year. That is a personal decision. Many passenger vehicle accidents occur because of the car being full of kids and that is a major distraction. They also won’t be able to hide any alcohol on a motorcycle as they can with a passenger vehicle. Having been a teenager once ourselves we know this is a likely scenario in a car. 

For the most part, purchasing a used motorcycle for your teenager will be less expensive than purchasing a used car for them. The insurance can also be cheaper too in many cases. The cost of gas that they will be burning up is also going to be significantly less than will a car. 

You are going to have to take an honest look at how responsible your teenager is. For those who have allowed their teenager to ride on and operate off road motorcycles for years, then the issue won’t be as large. This is because you know they are capable of handling the equipment and know how to properly operate it. If your teenager has a need for speed or is a risk taker you will need to be more cautious with this decision. You will also have the issue of how your teenager is going to get around when the weather is cold or too bad to operate a motorcycle in. 

For the most part, if you agree to allow your teenager to get a motorcycle, you should be able to come to agreement on the terms and conditions of this taking place. Start with safety requirements. Is your teenager willing to wear a motorcycle helmet without fail all the time when operating the bike? Some teenagers are too concerned with their hair or looking like a dork in front of their peers to agree to this. If they won’t then the motorcycle definitely should not be considered.

Is your teenager willing to take a motorcycle safety course? If they aren’t willing to give up one weekend to be involved in such an activity, do you really want to turn them loose with such a machine? Regardless of the power behind a particular model of motorcycle, it is still a bike they will be riding with other cars on the road. 

Once you have discusses the guidelines and terms of your allowing your teenager to get a motorcycle, you will have a clearer picture of what your teenager is willing to do for it. If they are willing to abide by your rules then you should trust them to make the right decisions. It is a good idea to put the agreed terms in writing as well as the consequences for breaking them. This way everyone is clear on what is expected from them regarding this decision.

It can be difficult allowing our children to grow up. The rite of passage that comes with obtaining a driver’s permit isn’t easy for most parents. Allowing them to be on their own and operate a motorcycle is a tough decision and one parents have to make all the time. As a parent, it is your responsibility to do what is in the best interest of your teenager even if they don’t agree with the decision. 

The History of Motorcycles

The History of Motorcycles

Most of us have ridden on a motorcycle at one time or another. The idea for their design came from the development of the bicycle. I guess people were looking for a faster way to move their bicycle along, or perhaps one that wasn’t as physically exerting for them. The first motorcycle every made is credited to Gottllieb Daimler in 1885. This gas powered motorcycle was basically a gas engine attached to a standard bicycle. However, Gottllieb decided not to pursue making motorcycles and choose instead to focus on manufacturing cars.

During this time period, many other individuals were also tinkering with the motorcycle concept. A couple of the men behind this experimenting were William Harley and Arthur Davidson. You guessed it, the dynamic duo behind the amazing line of Harley-Davidson motorcycles that have become popular all around the world since 1903.

People were very interested in this convenient mode of transportation because it was very economical. The public loved the idea of motorized transportation, but cars were still more expensive than most people could afford. However, some people soon realized that they would need to purchase a car instead of a motorcycle in order to transport their entire family.

A few of these motorcycle pioneers were able to successfully establish companies such as Harley-Davidson. However, many never had the money to start the venture properly and make it prosperous. Others left to go fight in the war and still others went bankrupt trying to market their motorcycle ideas during the Depression.

One downfall to motorcycles in the 1950’s is that you had to have a great understanding of mechanics to be able to operate one. The American bike manufacturers didn’t pursue making advances in that department until they started facing competition from Japan. They developed the electric start system that motorcycles offer today. This important feature allowed motorcycles to transform from small mopeds and scooters to powerful machines.

American motorcycle manufacturers did not see Japanese bikes as a threat, but this was as serious miscalculation on their part. It didn’t take long for American manufacturers to realize that they were losing consumers to the Japanese market. This lead to the introduction of many new models to prevent them from losing more of the market. Baby boomers continued to purchase Japanese bikes as they offered more power and were sold at an excellent price.

Motorcycles have certainly changes since their introduction. Today, the market is saturated with brand names that are well known in the motorcycle industry. Each one offers a variety of models to choose from as well as unique styles and designs. Regardless of the type of motorcycle you are interested in, you are sure to find one with the features and power you are looking for.

As the top motorcycle manufacturers continue to strive to come up with models that will please the consumer while out shining their competitors, you will have even more choices. As technology advances you will find faster, more durable, and less expensive motorcycle options on the market. Harley-Davidson continues to be in the top position, selling more motorcycles than any other manufacturer. In fact, the majority of their bikes are sold before they even leave the factory. While they remain one of the most expensive motorcycle producers, consumers are willing to pay for the quality and the power behind them.

When it comes to the motorcycle industry, consumers have come to learn that quality and reliability are more important than saving a few dollars along the way. A motorcycle is generally a large investment, and consumers want to be happy with the product they choose. The issue of brand name loyalty also comes into play with motorcycles. Since each manufacturer now offers a full line of different models and types of motorcycles, there is no reason why you can’t purchase both the brand and the style you are looking for.

The Yamaha V-Max – One of the Fastest Motorcycles Around

Are you looking for a very fast motorcycle that you can use for racing or even for leisure riding? The Yamaha V-Max, introduced in 1985, is one of the fastest motorcycles around. The term V-Max is short for Velocitus Maximus. This is a heavier bike that is not recommend for beginner riders. Instead, it is a solid machine built for the experiences rider who is looking for speed to add to the excitement of riding a motorcycle. Since its introduction, this model has continued to be a top seller. Many people consider V-Max to be synonymous with top speed. 

The most amazing feature on the V-Max is the V-Boost, raising the power to 800 RMP. There are four downshaft carburetors that feed the cylinders. Each one is separated by butterfly valves. The amount of horsepower the V-Boost adds to the motorcycle is something other hot rod models just can’t offer. This feature also allows the V-Max to accelerate quickly and smoothly. 

The first V-Max in 1985 offered a 145 HP and V-Boost. It came with a V4 1200 CC engine. This model was only introduced in the United States. Yamaha releases a slower version in 1986 to Europe and France, offering a 104 HP. The Europe models did not feature the V-Boost. The design was slightly changed for 1990 including a digital electronic ignition. This was the first year the V-Max was offered in Japan. Changes had to be made to the European model as they were enforcing stricter noise restrictions.

In 1996 Yamaha decided to switch to a black exhaust system. It wasn’t as well received at they had hoped, so the design was switched back to chrome for the 1998 model. 

While some motorcycle enthusiasts find the V-Max to be much too powerful for their likings, those who own them are very proud of their bikes. The V-Max Owners Association features thousands of members from around the world. They also schedule racing and motorcycle rallies for their members. 

The Yamaha V-Max has found its way into the heart of drag racing as well. Many competitors find this bike offers them a great chance for winning as it is fast and reliable. It isn’t uncommon to see modified V-Max bikes in major competitions, clocking more than 200 miles per hour in the quarter mile. 

The Yamaha V-Max has been a hot selling motorcycle since it was introduced in 1985. Just looking at the bike, you can see the power behind the design. The black and chrome color gives it a very muscular look. For some V-Max owners that has been the only drawback. There is no originality when it comes to the color of the motorcycle. However, many owners of the V-Max have enhanced theirs to make it unique. 

This has been done by adding a different exhaust system as well as pegs. Some have even added small decals to areas including cross bones or another graphic. Others choose to replace the factory mirrors with shorter, stockier versions. Other consumers complain that the seat isn’t comfortable for long rides, choosing to exchange it for a softer and wider customize seat that is. 

If you are looking for a hot rod motorcycle that is durable as well as fast, then check out the Yamaha V-Max. The 2007 models appear as hot as ever, and the speed is still above what you will find from many motorcycle competitors. The biggest change for 2007 is the model will move away from its trademark black and chrome look. Instead, it will feature red with white. 

Yamaha has made history with the V-Max, as for more than 20 years this bike has been viewed as the hottest muscle bike on the market. It has proven to deliver from looks to performance along the way. Perhaps the biggest surprise of all is the moderate price of this high performance motorcycle, starting around $12,500. Yamaha also offers a full one year warranty.