Big Dog Motorcycles has issued a recall of certain 2006 K-9 and 2007 K-9, Bulldog, and Mastiff models for an equipment problem with an accessory sissy bar.
Certain Big Dog aftermarket sissy bar assemblies were sold as an accessory part for the motorcycles associated with this recall. The sissy bar assemblies may be undersized, allowing excessive movement of the sissy bar. Over time, this could cause the bolts that retain the sissy bar to break allowing the sissy bar to detach from the motorcycle. This condition could occur without warning and could result in injury and/or a crash.
1800 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
BMW Recalls 2007 G650X Models for Fuel Pump Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2007 Motorcycle models including G650X Challenge, G650X Country, and G650X Moto.
On certain motorcycles, the fuel pump wiring set has not been manufactured according to specification. The contacts in the plug for the fuel pump can break. The fuel pump will fail and fuel delivery to the engine would cease causing the engine to stall increasing the risk of a crash.
764 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles, the fuel pump wiring set has not been manufactured according to specification. The contacts in the plug for the fuel pump can break. The fuel pump will fail and fuel delivery to the engine would cease causing the engine to stall increasing the risk of a crash.
764 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Big Dog Motorcycles Recalls 2007 Bulldog for Tachometer Short
Big Dog Motorcycles has issued a recall of certain 2007 Bulldog models.
On certain motorcycles, the tachometer board may have been improperly installed. Improperly installed tachometer boards may develop a short circuit that could cause the motorcycle to shut down. This could occur without prior warning and result in a crash.
181 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles, the tachometer board may have been improperly installed. Improperly installed tachometer boards may develop a short circuit that could cause the motorcycle to shut down. This could occur without prior warning and result in a crash.
181 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
BMW Recalls 2007 F650 GS Motorcycle for Handlebar Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2007 F650 GS Motorcycle models.
On certain motorcycles, the clamping blocks and the top fork bridge were not manufactured according to specifications. Consequently, the handlebars might not be held securely in position. It is possible for the handlebars to move out of their correct position when the motorcycle is being maneuvered, or when it is being ridden, increasing the risk of a crash.
425 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles, the clamping blocks and the top fork bridge were not manufactured according to specifications. Consequently, the handlebars might not be held securely in position. It is possible for the handlebars to move out of their correct position when the motorcycle is being maneuvered, or when it is being ridden, increasing the risk of a crash.
425 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
BMW Recalls 2007 G650X Models for Chain Tensioner Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2007 Motorcycle models including G650X Challenge, G650X Country, and G650X Moto.
On certain motorcycles, a left-side chain tensioner has been incorrectly installed on the right side. As a result, a hex nut, which is used to secure the chain tensioner, is improperly seated against the tensioner. Loosening of the chain tensioner and the rear wheel axle may occur. This could lead to a condition in which the motorcycle is unstable, increasing the risk of a crash.
173 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles, a left-side chain tensioner has been incorrectly installed on the right side. As a result, a hex nut, which is used to secure the chain tensioner, is improperly seated against the tensioner. Loosening of the chain tensioner and the rear wheel axle may occur. This could lead to a condition in which the motorcycle is unstable, increasing the risk of a crash.
173 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Piaggio Recalls 2008 MP3 250RL Motor Scooters for Loose Bolt Problem
Piaggio has issued a recall of certain 2008 MP3 250RL Motorcycles.
On certain motor scooters, the head of the engine attachment bolt (P/N 597080) may break. If the bolt were to break, the engine could become loose and detach itself from the vehicle frame, increasing the risk of a crash.
159 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motor scooters, the head of the engine attachment bolt (P/N 597080) may break. If the bolt were to break, the engine could become loose and detach itself from the vehicle frame, increasing the risk of a crash.
159 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Suzuki Issues Recall of 2007 GSX-R1000 Motorcycles for Idle Speed Control Problem
Suzuki has issued a recall of certain 2007 GSX-R1000 Motorcycles.
On certain motorcycles, each time the ignition switch is turned off, the engine control module (ECM) pre-sets the position of the idle speed control (ISC) valve for subsequent engine starting by opening the valve completely and then closing it to a start-up position. Due to improper shape of the internal mechanism that moves the ISC valve, the valve may remain in the open position instead of moving to the correct start-up position. This can result in no-load engine idle speeds as high as 5000 rpm the next time the engine is started. If the rider chooses to operate the motorcycle in this condition, the rider may have difficulty operating the motorcycle, which could result in a crash.
13398 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles, each time the ignition switch is turned off, the engine control module (ECM) pre-sets the position of the idle speed control (ISC) valve for subsequent engine starting by opening the valve completely and then closing it to a start-up position. Due to improper shape of the internal mechanism that moves the ISC valve, the valve may remain in the open position instead of moving to the correct start-up position. This can result in no-load engine idle speeds as high as 5000 rpm the next time the engine is started. If the rider chooses to operate the motorcycle in this condition, the rider may have difficulty operating the motorcycle, which could result in a crash.
13398 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Honda Issues Recall of 2002-2005 VFR800 Motorcycles for Electrical Problem
Honda has issued a recall of certain 2002-2005 VFR800 models.
On certain motorcycles, the front fairing sub-harness (section of the wiring harness) transfers the electrical grounding load of the headlights, front turn signals, instrument panel, and various relays to the main wiring harness via an 18-pin connector. Under certain conditions, the ground wire terminals inside the connector can overheat, resulting in melting of the connector and a loss of power to various circuits. As a result, a loss of critical lighting or engine power could occur without warning, which could cause a crash.
An unspecified number of units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles, the front fairing sub-harness (section of the wiring harness) transfers the electrical grounding load of the headlights, front turn signals, instrument panel, and various relays to the main wiring harness via an 18-pin connector. Under certain conditions, the ground wire terminals inside the connector can overheat, resulting in melting of the connector and a loss of power to various circuits. As a result, a loss of critical lighting or engine power could occur without warning, which could cause a crash.
An unspecified number of units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Big Dog Motorcycles Recalls 2005-2006 Models for Voltage Regulator Problem
Big Dog Motorcycles has issued a recall of certain 2005 motorcycle models including Bulldog, DT Chopper, Mastiff, N-Chopper, Pitbull, and Ridgeback. Also included in the recall are certain 2006 motorcycle models including Chopper, K-9, Mastiff, Pitbull, and Ridgeback.
On certain motorcycles, a warped bus bar within the voltage regulator can cause a short circuit. This could possibly result in a fire.
7611 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
On certain motorcycles, a warped bus bar within the voltage regulator can cause a short circuit. This could possibly result in a fire.
7611 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Harry Potter's Motorcycle Rides
Since I was one of the people who started reading the Harry Potter 7-book series just as the new movie based on book 5 came out, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. It turns out that Harry first appears riding on a flying motorcycle in the first book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Then in the last book (book 7) just released, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, he again rides on the same flying motorcycle, this time with an attached sidecar.
The rider of the bike is the character Hagrid, a giant of a man. The owner of the bike is Sirius Black. You'll be following these two main characters throughout the books.
J. K. Rowling's astounding work of fiction took me the better part of six weeks to get all the way through to the end of book 7. You say this is a children's book? Maybe book 1 with 319 pages is but from then on, it gets darker and darker as Harry ages from 11 to 17. Book 7 is 759 pages of pretty much non-stop battle scenes. The new movie, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, is based on book 5 that has 870 pages.
I was startled to see a motorcycle in book 1. When I got to book 7, the motorcycle was there again, this time outfitted for battle.
Harry Potter was a very good read and even better since it had a magic motorcycle in it. Way to go Ms. Rowling.
The rider of the bike is the character Hagrid, a giant of a man. The owner of the bike is Sirius Black. You'll be following these two main characters throughout the books.
J. K. Rowling's astounding work of fiction took me the better part of six weeks to get all the way through to the end of book 7. You say this is a children's book? Maybe book 1 with 319 pages is but from then on, it gets darker and darker as Harry ages from 11 to 17. Book 7 is 759 pages of pretty much non-stop battle scenes. The new movie, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, is based on book 5 that has 870 pages.
I was startled to see a motorcycle in book 1. When I got to book 7, the motorcycle was there again, this time outfitted for battle.
Harry Potter was a very good read and even better since it had a magic motorcycle in it. Way to go Ms. Rowling.
Motorcycle Route Planning
Another great tool for planning your motorcycle trips is Google maps.
It's a free service and here I am using it to plan out a five day trip down to Kalispel Montana, Coeur D'Alene Idaho and points beyond.
We may or may not follow the route as planned out but gives us a general idea of where we want to go and how to get there. It also has the the benefit of telling you the mileage and time involved in the journey.
The days of pouring over paper maps is over and one doesn't have to go out and buy the latest in GPS technology to find your way around the world.
It's a free service and here I am using it to plan out a five day trip down to Kalispel Montana, Coeur D'Alene Idaho and points beyond.
We may or may not follow the route as planned out but gives us a general idea of where we want to go and how to get there. It also has the the benefit of telling you the mileage and time involved in the journey.
The days of pouring over paper maps is over and one doesn't have to go out and buy the latest in GPS technology to find your way around the world.
Motorcycle Forums and Lots More
Motorcycle Views is more than just this blog. It has a newsletter, a main site, and a motorcycle forum.
Signup for the newsletter to keep up-to-date with site changes and important forum discussions. I always have four forum discussions listed in the newsletter.
The main site has most of the content that I created for the old About.com site. I continue to add to that content. I have many features on that site including motorcycle pictures, women on motorcycles, user reviews, motorcycle recalls, motorcycle tattoos, makes and models, and a motorcycle tests index.
My motorcycle forum is now on Delphi and has attracted most of the regulars from the old site. So, if you've missed hearing from a former member, check out the forum and see if they're now in the new forum. This is a very active motorcycle forum with a good mix of experience and we ride all brands of motorcycles. Both men and women riders are represented.
So, be sure to check out the complete site so you don't miss anything.
Signup for the newsletter to keep up-to-date with site changes and important forum discussions. I always have four forum discussions listed in the newsletter.
The main site has most of the content that I created for the old About.com site. I continue to add to that content. I have many features on that site including motorcycle pictures, women on motorcycles, user reviews, motorcycle recalls, motorcycle tattoos, makes and models, and a motorcycle tests index.
My motorcycle forum is now on Delphi and has attracted most of the regulars from the old site. So, if you've missed hearing from a former member, check out the forum and see if they're now in the new forum. This is a very active motorcycle forum with a good mix of experience and we ride all brands of motorcycles. Both men and women riders are represented.
So, be sure to check out the complete site so you don't miss anything.
Getting Ready to Ride
One of the better parts of going motorcycle camping is the anticipation and preparation before the ride.
Of course no one really likes packing but going by motorcycle presents a challenge of trying to get everything on two wheels that you may need after leaving home.
Of course no one really likes packing but going by motorcycle presents a challenge of trying to get everything on two wheels that you may need after leaving home.
The Tank Bag
The tank bag, or man purse as I like to call it sometimes, is one of the neatest and most versatile pieces of luggage one can get for the bike. I only have a small one but find it handy for carrying lots of personal items such as gloves, sunglasses, camera, and various other knick-knacks as well as holding a map. I resisted for many years but after acquiring one I really like it.
Saddlebags Whether you have hard bags or soft bags, this is where most of your gear will go. As you can tell from the picture above I have mine crammed full of camping and cooking gear. I managed to squeeze in a lantern, cook stove, coffee pot, condiments, cutlery, fry pan, inflator mug, portable BBQ, and other handy little items.
Trunk and Rear Passenger Seat
The rear passenger seat for me will hold the most amount of gear, including tent, air mattress, camp chair, sleeping bag and clothes bag. Of course this is held all together with a stretchy and versatile cargo net that will hold anything and everything in place. If you ride two-up you will not have this option and have to load up your trunk or rear luggage rack.
In my small trunk I carry my rain suit, snap on visor, tool kit and a few other misc. items
Smaller is better when it comes to packing items for the back of your motorcycle and with a little practise and a few bungee cords you can tie on all the necessities that you will need.
Packing for Motorcycle Camping
Getting ready for a five day motorcycle/camping tour to Montana-Idaho and Washington state and it is time to pack the essentials.
One tool that I found to be most useful is the Motorcycle/camping list that can be custom made for yourself.
It is available from Micapeak a very good site for motorcycle enthusiasts, check it out and use this valuable tool to help you pack efficiently.
One tool that I found to be most useful is the Motorcycle/camping list that can be custom made for yourself.
It is available from Micapeak a very good site for motorcycle enthusiasts, check it out and use this valuable tool to help you pack efficiently.
Motorcycle User Reviews
One of the most popular features I had on the old site was Motorcycle User Reviews. These were written by actual owners and sent to me. I did a complete edit job on each User Review. I also started asking reviewers to send me a picture of their bike to include with the review. That made for a really excellent product that both described the pros and cons of the bike and also let the reader take a look at the actual motorcycle. I had close to 800 user reviews.
I have also started up a Motorcycle User Reviews feature on my new site, Motorcycle Views. Currently it has close to 50 user reviews. I want to grow this feature but it all depends on you. I know you like to tell others about your bike and I know that you like to show pictures of your bike. Why not sit down and write a user review of your bike and send it along with a picture to be included in Motorcycle User Reviews?
Take a look at the Motorcycle User Reviews I already have and then Submit a Motorcycle User Review, today.
Stars Riding Motorcycles
Here are a few pictures of your favorite stars riding their motorcycles. This comes from Glam.com.
I also have a feature on the Motorcycle Views site called Famous Motorcyclists. Take a look.
I also have a feature on the Motorcycle Views site called Famous Motorcyclists. Take a look.
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Webcams
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally officially opens today in Sturgis, SD.
Here's a link to my Sturgis article that includes a link to the new Sturgis Webcams. You can see what's going on there via many Webcams trained on the street and updated frequently.
Sturgis is a rally not to be missed. Many go every year. My last trip was in 1993, the year of the floods. This year it may be the year of the heat.
Here's a link to my Sturgis article that includes a link to the new Sturgis Webcams. You can see what's going on there via many Webcams trained on the street and updated frequently.
Sturgis is a rally not to be missed. Many go every year. My last trip was in 1993, the year of the floods. This year it may be the year of the heat.
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