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Basic Motorcycle Riding Techniques

There are three basic techniques that every motorcycle rider should know. Even advanced motorcycle riders can use a refresher on the basics:


1. Head & eyes
2. Using the friction zone
3. Controlling the rear brake


First, you must master the "head and eyes" technique. This means exactly that wherever you look is where the motorcycle will go. The reason the phrase "head and eyes" is used is that if you turn your head to the left, but your eyes look straight ahead, this motorcycle riding technique won't work. Both your head and eyes must turn in the direction you want the motorcycle to go. Don't ever look down unless you want to go down. The "head and eyes" technique takes practice to become second nature. Fortunately, you can practice this riding technique every time you ride your motorcycle. For instance, if you are turning to the right from a stop sign, turn your head and eyes to the right, look down the road where you want the motorcycle to go and you'll immediately notice you will be making a much tighter turn than normal. When you stop at a stop sign and are about to make a left hand turn, turn your head and eyes to the left, avoid looking at the curb or the center line of the road and focus on where you want the bike to end up and you will find you will never drift towards the curb or the center line of the road. You can even practice the "head and eyes" technique while riding a bicycle by making U-turns on the road in front of your own house.


Second, you must learn how to use the friction zone. The friction zone is the area on the clutch between fully open and fully closed. In other words, as you let the clutch out and the motorcycle starts to move, you're entering the friction zone. A simple way to become accustomed to riding a motorcycle in the friction zone is to practice what's called the slow race. That is merely going as slow as you possibly can without releasing the clutch all the way.


Third, you need to properly use the rear or controlling brake. With the bike in the friction zone, keep your foot on the rear brake and feather it as the motorcycle starts to move. By doing this you are making the bike think it's going faster than it is. When you apply power and keep your foot on the rear brake, it keeps the bike from falling over at low speeds that is where most people have difficulty. I've never heard of anyone having problems balancing their bike at 50 or 60 MPH. If you don't use these motorcycle riding techniques at 5 or 10 MPH, the motorcycle feels clumsy and wants to fall over on its side.


AVOID using the front brake at all costs when riding at parking lot speeds, as applying the front brake at 5 or 10 MPH with the handlebars turned even slightly will pull you to the ground like a magnet. Of course, once above parking lot speeds, you must use the front brake as well as the rear brake, as 70% of your braking power comes from the front brake.


Avoid dragging your feet along the ground as this tends to upset the balance of the bike, and of course, if your feet are dragging on the ground you cannot have your foot on the brake. As soon as you start to move your bike from a complete stop, both feet should automatically come up to the pegs or floorboards and your right foot should be feathering the rear brake. Once you conquer these 3 simple techniques, you will be amazed at the tight maneuvers your motorcycle can perform. You'll know you've gotten it right when you can make full lock turns in both directions at 5 MPH with the pegs or boards scraping a perfect circle in the pavement.


Even if you have been through advanced motorcycle training, a refresher on the basics is always a good idea.


Remember, all it takes is a little practice on your motorcycle. Good Luck!


Jerry "Motorman" Palladino began teaching the Ride Like a Pro classes in 1999 and has expanded to ten franchises throughout the US. Operated by fellow motor officers these rider courses teach life saving techniques that every motorcyclist should master. A "Motorman" is the term used in police circles to identify a motorcycle officer. Police Motor Officers are the top 2% of riders in America. They are able to handle 800 lb. motorcycles with agile confidence. Jerry "Motorman" Palladino has demonstrated over 3,000 Motorcycle Safety seminars all over the Country while continuing his work as a part time deputy sheriff. For over thirteen years ride like a pro courses have taught thousands of students and have never had a single injury or incident. Go to RideLikeaPro.com to learn more about the power of control.

Efficient Motorcycle Saddlebag Accessories

It is not surprising to find an extensive range of motorcycle saddlebag accessories at the ecommerce stores. The craze for motorcycles is always on the rise. This is one among the best mode of transportation due to various reasons. In this era of economic crisis, it is important to find fuel efficient travel solutions. Using these would help you save non-renewable sources of energy. At the end of the month, you would be happy to see that you have saved considerably well on your travel expense. While it is the comfort and cost effectiveness that motivate many to choose this, there are others who love motorcycles over any other vehicles. Even if they are given an opportunity to choose a luxury car for their commutation, they would stick to this. They enjoy every moment of their motorbike rides.


If you are a regular traveler, you would know the inconvenience of carrying a bag with you. You might have to compromise on your balance and safety. The use of appropriate saddlebags will help you to keep your bike well balanced. Those who travel on the two wheelers often end up leaving behind something that they had always wanted to purchase because they cannot carry it home all by themselves. You would be amazed to see the wide range of specious bags available online. The bags would occupy the rear end of the motorcycle without causing any trouble for the riders. This would enhance the quality of your journey. The bikers are attention seekers. They would always want to purchase the most stylish saddlebags that would complement their style.


Motorcycle saddlebag accessories would ensure that your journey is not exhilarating. The leather bags might shrink if they come in contact with water. The ones that are fixed with the help of appropriate saddlebag support systems cannot be removed each time when you wash your motorbike. Over a period of time, these bags can become saggy. Restoration services can help you reinstate the shape of the bags. This can help you save ample of money which would have been used in purchasing a new one.


Motorcycle saddlebag accessories include restoration systems that can be installed without professional help. The system comes with complete and detailed instructions about the installation procedure. The reliable ecommerce stores would provide technical support to assist you with any concerns that you have. Leather lid inserts are one among the bag accessories that enhance the efficiency, functionality and looks of these bags. The lids are available to suit almost all types of bags. The hard and sturdy lids are made of highest quality materials.


The saddle support system includes an extensive range of products, like snap kit, utility pouch and drink holder. Motorcycle saddlebag accessories come with lifetime warranty. By purchasing a range of tools, you can keep these in shape without seeking the help of professionals. The flat and smooth appearance of these bags would always make them look new. This is a lucrative investment for the motorbikes.


Willie Smith is the author of this article on Saddlebag Support Systems. Find more information, about Motorcycle Saddlebag Accessories here

The Different Types of Kawasaki Motorcycle

Kawasaki are known for being one of the world's leading motorcycle manufacturers. Not only do the bikes look amazing, but they have performance, comfort, reliability and safety features that are second to none. This article provides a list of some of the most common types of Kawasaki motorcycles, and what each of their benefits are.


Offroad


Offroad bikes are designed with special features that make them appropriate for use on offroad environments. The KLX450R combines a powerful 4 stroke engine technology along with a race orientated chassis, making it Kawasaki's fastest offroad bike ever. Other models in the offroad range include the 2012 Stockman, and the KLX140.


Motocross


Kawasaki are world famous for their incredible and powerful range of motocross bikes. From 2 stroke to 4 stroke systems, Kawasaki provides a range of motocross models that are designed to beat the competition. Motocross models include the 2013 KX250F, and the 2013 KX65.


Cruisers


Cruisers are designed to travel long distances in both style and comfort. They are perfect for road-trips, as they combine powerful touring features, along with ample space and storage. The Vulcan 1700 Voyager is one of Kawasaki's flagship cruisers, other models in the range include the Vulcan 900 Classic, and the Vulcan 900 Classic Special edition.


Sport


Sport bikes are designed to be high-performing, yet rider-friendly. The 1400GTR ABS is designed to reach blistering speeds, while maintaining precision handling. Its four cylinder engine, shaft drive, comfortable ergonomics and integrated luggage storage make it the world's first trans continental supersport motorcycle. This motorcycle really is in a class of its own, and has to be driven to be believed!


Fun Bikes


Fun bikes make up a range of models that are specially designed to introduce young riders into the fun of off road driving. They are made with safety in mind, and they have a number of features which make them suitable for use by children, teenagers and young adults. The four stroke KFX90 quad is suitable for children age 12 years old and up. It has an easy to operate system, including and electric start feature, and a speed limiting throttle, which allows children to learn how to ride at safer, slower speeds.


Learner Approved


Kawasaki have produced a range of bikes which are learner approved. The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) was first introduced in NSW, Australia, and since a successful trial period it has been introduced into other states. Some of the Kawasaki motorcycles that are learner improved include the 2013 KLR650, the Versys 650L ABS, and the 2012 Ninja 250R.


The best place to purchase motorbikes is from a specialist dealer. You can find one in your area by searching for them online. All good dealerships will have a website, where you can view information and photographs of all the bikes and accessories that they currently have for sale. Always use a trusted and reputable company, to ensure that you will be buying a high quality new or used bike which is built to last.


If you are low on budget, you can buy a used Kawasaki motorcycle of your choice. There are many dealers dealing in used motorcycles and you can even find some online too. Click on this link to find out more!