Friday 28 June 2013

Biggest Killer of ATV Riders

All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are becoming more popular every year. So, too, are accidents. Several hundred riders die and over 100,000 are injured annually. The causes are varied from defects in equipment to when nature isn't cooperative. But by far, the biggest cause is rider error.

Rider error can be in the form of lack of proper gear. The helmet is the most important, yet often riders presume a ball cap will shield them from harm. Goggles prevent eye injuries from debris and branches. Long sleeves and gloves prevent abrasions.

Many riders have never looked at the warning stickers on the fenders which warn them not to carry two riders unless the ATV was designed for it. Having the back end overloaded is a sure way to precipitate a backflip while going up a hill. Or they will ride on roadways and be struck by an auto. Or they will be drinking alcohol and poor judgment will prevail.

Many times children are on ATVs (sometimes called quads) that are too large or powerful for them to handle. They are even more prone than adults are to attempt extreme maneuvers or climbing a slope or traversing unstable terrain that is unsafe. Too often, this results in tragedy.

Much of this can be remedied by taking safety courses which are offered free by the manufacturers upon the purchase of a new quad. Surprisingly, only about one-third of new purchasers take up the offer.

As to actually killing riders, there is one situation that happens to overwhelmingly cause the most deaths. That is a rollover. Quads can weigh from 350 to over 900 pounds. One on top of a rider can easily pin them in sand or mud, or even under water or against a tree. But many times, they get a crushed skull or broken bones or spine.

One might think this will usually only happen if the rider is hot-dogging along a narrow trail, but that thought is wrong. In fact, 75% of all major accidents happen loading and unloading from a pickup bed or high trailer. Why is this?

Usually ramps are used for the quad's wheels to travel on going up or down. On a trailer, it's easy to move the wrong way slightly and come off where there is no ramp. Or, many times the ramps are short and the pickup tailgate is high. This means a steep angle of climb which is difficult. But even when longer ramps are used, there can be a problem.

What happens is that as the quad goes up the ramp, the wheels try to spin the ramp back away from the tailgate. When this happens, there is a space at the top of the ramps and they fall down. At that moment, the quad's front wheels may be on the tailgate and the rear wheels fall causing the quad to do a backflip-often landing on top of the rider. If only one ramp falls, the quad falls back and sideways-not much easier on the rider.

When the quad is being unloaded, it is being backed off the pickup and as its weight (remember, you are adding to the weight since you are on the seat) is transferred to the ramps, the tailgate rises and allows a gap at the top of the ramp. Then the ramp falls off. Now if the rider is way down on the ramp and close to the ground, then maybe no foul. But if the rider is high up still, or comes off the side of the ramp, then, again, the quad flips backward and/or sideways and lands on the rider. And, let me tell you, even if you aren't squashed, you still get quite a thrill!

The easiest way to prevent this loading/unloading hazard is pretty simple, although amazingly often disregarded. It's to use retention straps or chain to hold the ramps against the tailgate. The most effective way is to position them near the top portion of the ramp and as straight back to the truck, or bumper, as possible. If you are using nylon straps, you should check them regularly to make sure they aren't stress separating.

It is also a good habit to be wearing a helmet during this maneuver, too, for obvious reason.

Remember, three-fourths of all serious injuries are caused loading and unloading, so if you aren't on a trailer close to the ground where you can just push your quad off safely, then use the straps.

How to Adjust Valves on a Motocross Bike?

Are you a participant of power sports events where bikes are used to ride around the pits? If yes, then motocross bikes are meant for you. Owning a motorbike is of great esteem however it must be kept in mind that merely owning the vehicle is not sufficient as it requires proper upkeep too. Since these bikes are ridden aggressively, these need high quality repair and maintenance services.

Though different components of your motocross bike are important, it is the valve which needs utmost attention. Adjusting the valves of your bike engine is not that intimating and mysterious as it sounds or seems. The key maintenance process can be done by anyone who possesses few basic tools.

In both practice and concept, the mechanism of adjusting the valves of your motocross bike engine is very straightforward. Noteworthy, these valves act as doors to your bike's combustion chamber, facilitating the fresh mix to flow in at the time when the stroke intakes. This further seals the chamber when there is power stroke and compression, allowing the gas to exit which was spent when the stroke exhausted.

Process of adjusting valve on motocross bike:

The engine of motocross bike is generally designed to be used in sport events; hence regular inspection of valves is necessary. Though not difficult, this process is actually a manipulation which needs patience and attention on owner's part.

• Remove the plastic and saddle or any other aesthetic part which could interfere with the process.
• Dismount the cylinder head cover and you will see distribution chain and camshafts.
• Take out the ignition cover.
• Analyze the valve adjustment. For this you can have a look at the owner manual and compare with the actual adjustment.
• Make a mark on the chain and sprocket so that you have free access to camshafts.
• There are screws that hold the camshaft. Unscrew them and take them out quietly.
• Take out the pads by using a magnet which is very thin.
• Replace the pads with the ones which have correct thickness.
• Next take out the pellets and use a magnet for putting them back in their place.
• Following this, put the camshaft back.
• Check for the valve clearance and if it is not appropriate, check the valve adjustment again.
• Place the different peripherals, head cylinder cover, and ignition cover back.

Even though the valves live/work in harsh environment, they require less routine maintenance as compared to other components. On an average, these valves need nothing more than a yearly lash inspection together with an occasional adjustment so that your bike rides smooth and safe. With little mechanical skills, you will be able to have a perfect grasp on the tasks that you perform with your bike, provided the valves are in good condition.

The Best in the Game: SIDI Motorbike Shoes

If you are a biker then you must have known by now how to separate the grain from the chaff. You must also have known that riding can be as scintillating as it can be risky and that your safety is of utmost importance. Thirdly, and most importantly, you must have known that regardless of the dangers on the riding track, there are renown brands you can always count on to deliver great results while assuring you of your safety at the same time. Your riding boots are just as important as your helmet and your jacket in protecting you against harm. However, the right riding boots will also ensure that your feet are at the right place at the right time ad that they do not slip when you are in need of grip. SIDI motorbike boots were made to guarantee you performance, safety and style on the track and on the road.

Why SIDI motorbike shoes are a must have for bikers?

SIDI motorbike boots have proven beyond doubt over a period spanning 40 years since the first pair was made that they can be reliable and counted on. If you are a rider then you and I definitely know that a lot goes into making you a winner and also making sure you do not get involved in freak accidents. No matter how good you are, SIDI motorbike boots have the tenacity, comfort and style in them to stretch your ability to the limit and get the best out of you. These boots are specially made with high-grip soles that ensure your feet remain on the clutch when you need them to and also that your feet can step on the ground at very high speeds and at tight angles without sliding and potentially causing a fall. The inner comfort in these boots is such that your legs will have a comfortable fortress to protect them in case of an accident and also to ensure that your legs do not become strained even after long hours of riding. What's more? They are made with the latest state of the art technology to ensure that the internal environment is regulated and conditioned such that you do not develop sweaty feet after a long ride during hot weather and also that your feet are not affected by extreme low temperatures during winter.

These boots come in different sizes and design, which vary from ankle -height to knee-height. In addition, they come with cam-lock off road boot buckle system, the replacement system and inner ankle protection system which are the best and most trusted in the market. Common designs include the Vertigo, Vertice, Crossfire, Discovery and Cobra. Moreover, there are a variety of colors to choose from; with specific boots designed for ladies and kids.

Wednesday 5 June 2013

The Best of Them All - FMF Exhaust

The increasing popularity of biking has seen the government put stricter rules to be complied with by riders. However, just because the authorities say that you must check on the production of your exhaust does not mean that you should lay low and compromise. Bikers know that exhaust pipes speak volumes about not just their bikes but also about the bikers themselves. FMF exhaust pipes came to the rescue of bikers who were having to not only deal with the fear of being on the wrong side of the law, but also having to deal with reduced performance levels as a result of ineffective exhaust systems. FMF exhausts have dominated the dirt biking scene as a result of their efficiency and now their good name has earned them the top spot in street bike riding and touring as well. Moreover, these pipes are not only popular at the grassroots, but high end professional bike riders have demonstrated their preference for these pipes.

FMF exhaust has also found favor with ATVs due to their high level of performance. It is never easy to come across high performance fittings that are easy to fit as FMF exhaust pipes. This is an added advantage over other pipes because it allows riders to do repairs and replacements within the shortest time possible and get back to the track. So what makes these exhaust pipes stand out? For starters, makers of these wonderful pieces have taken it upon themselves to look for the highest quality of material to manufacture the pipes. Those who have used these exhaust pipes are witnesses to the fact that they do not get charred easily by the exhaust heat, remain as shinny and as clean as ever even after prolonged use and they compliment the engine performance by ensuring that the amount of smoke produced is negligible.
High performance rating

A good exhaust system should also be able to ensure that you economize on fuel and get the most power out of your system. An FMF exhaust pipe is efficient in today's fuel economy and they ensure that you make the most of what you've got by giving you optimal power while using fuel efficiently. This is especially important for those riders who like long distance touring and dirt bikers who do in over long distances. The header lengths of these exhausts are well defined and you should get expert advice on which header length would work best in your system. FMF exhausts are miles ahead of their competitors in relation to the clearing of the combustion chambers. This means that your engine will be cleaner and more effective once you opt for an FMF exhaust. Moreover, engine noise levels will be significantly reduced.

How to Choose the Best Parts for Your ATV

When deciding what parts you want to buy for your ATV, there are several factors you will need to assess. You first need to determine the make, model, and year of your ATV. After you have this information established, you will be better equipped to determine what parts are compatible with your ATV. When you get to this point, you then have to consider what kind of riding you plan on doing. This is because the parts you will buy depend on what kind of riding you'll be doing, what the terrain is, what your riding style is, whether you're using the ATV for racing or as a utilitarian work vehicle, etc. When you have these details figured out, the next step is to find a reputable dealer of ATV accessories that offers fair prices.

When you have decided this preliminary information, you're now read to pick out the parts for your ATV. If the parts you're looking for are only going to serve for a cosmetic purpose, then your search for parts will be quite simple. All you'll have to do is find parts that are compatible with your ATV's make, model, and year, and then pick which parts you think look the best. However, if you're looking for parts that will be used for repairs or upgrades on previous parts, such as engines, brakes, wheels, bearings, exhausts, and other important parts of the ATV, you'll need to do some more research than you would if you were only using the parts for cosmetic reasons. You'll need to research quality accessories that are intended to be used the way you intend to use them and that are very durable. You'll also have to research other aspects of the accessories, such as factors concerning compatibility and usability. Taotao, Roketa, Honda, and Yamaha are some popular brands of ATVs and ATV parts that are known for their superior quality.

A great way to research these parts, especially if you're new to buying four wheeler parts, is to spend some time talking with a local, reputable four wheeler parts dealer. These people can offer you real expertise and help guide you down the best path to finding the best parts and correctly installing them. You may also research these parts online; however, it can often be difficult to find reliable information on the web, as you never really know who you're dealing with. You can also buy a repair manual for your ATV. This is a great way for you to start learning about different parts that are already in your ATV. This knowledge will give you a good foundation for knowing the parts of your ATV that can be replaced and what parts they should be replaced with.

As with anything you buy, there are different prices for products. The prices of the parts for your ATV will depend upon the size, complexity, quality, and compatibility of the part. You can buy lower- end parts for cheaper, but with the cheaper price tag comes the cheaper quality. Make sure that when you're replacing vital parts of the ATV that you're buying good- quality, high- end accessories.

How You Can Winterize an ATV

There is need to properly store your ATV during winter because its engine can be damaged by ice. In addition to this, road salt is corrosive and has the capability of wearing away the undercarriage. You can learn the basics of winterizing your ATV and avoid paying for shop charges to winterize so that the life of your utility vehicle can be extended.

Every inch of your ATV should be properly washed and you can use an old toothbrush to reach remote areas. Oil and mud can wear away at surfaces with time and cleaning it thoroughly before storing for winter is a good maintenance practice. Additionally, you can hand-wax it after it is dry so that an added protection can be provided for it.

Furthermore, the oil and filters should be changed so that the utility vehicle can be protected from excess dirt which can settle in the engine. Gas stabilizer should be put into the fuel tank and the tank should be filled with fresh gas. Premium gasoline should be used if you want to get the best results. Your ATV should be allowed to run for a few minutes so that the stabilizer will be able to work through the carburetor. Turn off the vehicle as well as the gas valve while the chain should be properly oiled.

The battery should be disconnected and pulled out. You should charge it if necessary and make sure that the terminals are cleaned. Keep the battery in a place where it cannot freeze like a heated breezeway which is more desirable than a cold garage. The battery should be kept away from the reach of children because its acid is corrosive. It is important to store the battery on a high shelf or locked in a cabinet and should not be placed directly on concrete so that its power is not drained.

Push your utility vehicle into a garage or shed because it is not advisable to store it outside in the winter climate. It should be placed on blocks and the tires should be filled to the right psi so that they can be prevented from weather cracking. The use of expensive jack stands is not compulsory as you can make use of cinder blocks or heavy plastic milk crates. You should tarp the ATV so that excess dust and vermin can be kept at bay. You can also leave an open can of wax on the floor under the tarp so that the smell will ward off chipmunks, mice and other small pests.

Discover The Benefits Of Buying ATV Parts Online

ATV parts are always believed to be best bought personally for the best options by people. The thing is, not everyone has the time or means to go out of their way to accomplish this task. All thanks to technology and the benefits that the internet provides, one can now stay in the comfort of their homes or offices and buy the ATV part he needs. This is only one of the many benefits that a person can get from shopping for these online the web. There are so many more gains that ATV owners can discover and appreciate.

More savings to enjoy

Online shoppers for ATV parts are sure to enjoy more savings and better value for their money because of the wide selection that they can find online.This is a primary benefit that not all people realize. By simply doing a search using a person's favorite engine, different brands will already come up for people to choose from. Some of them are Honda, Kawasaki, Arctic Cat and the likes. A person can look for the brand and specific part that his bike requires while working within his budget. This gives him a better financial bandwidth and the best choices without exerting too much effort.

Get the same warranty and quality of goods that were bought from a shop

The warranty and quality are fixed expectations that have to be delivered by all manufacturers. These are the same for those who will be shopping online for the ATV parts that a person needs. He simply needs to pay attention the details of the item in order to understand the terms and conditions for the warranty to apply. This simple education will do a lot for a shopper to get the best value for his money.

Be spared from the effort of carrying or dragging the parts to your garage

One of the biggest challenges that a shopper for ATV part would have to endure is the reality that he would have to step out of the house, shop and carry the item regardless of how small or big it is. By shopping for it online, one is automatically spared of this burden and can simply relax at home while the item is in transit. Shipping and handling of items that were bought online is but a simple luxury that a person can enjoy. The great thing about this is that it does not cost as much, especially if one will consider the gas that he would use when driving around to shop for it.

There are many other benefits that a person can discover when shopping for ATV parts online. These can further include finding better items that he can put in his shopping cart for future purchases and also take advantage of them for discounted rates. This is especially true because a lot of items on the internet also go on sale more often that stores do. For almost the same price and more convenience, one is sure to not resist the enticing benefits that he can gain from surfing the web for ATV parts.
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