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All about Car and Motorcycle

May 20th, 2011

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.

May 18th, 2011

What You Can do to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles are frequently found on our roads, especially during the warmer months of the year. With the high price of fuel, it isn’t surprising that the number of motorcycle riders out there is significantly on the rise. It is everyone’s job to do all they can to prevent motorcycle accidents from happening. What can you do while you are on the road to prevent them?

For motorcycle riders, the answer starts with being responsible. Make sure that you always wear the proper safety equipment. Don’t exceed the posted speed limit or ride your bike in adverse weather conditions. If you aren’t confident of your riding abilities then don’t take that motorcycle onto a street that is busy or onto a highway or interstate. Doing so will only put yourself and others at risk of an accident. Always make sure everything on the motorcycle is in excellent working condition and that you can safely reach all of the necessary controls on the bike.

Drinking and driving is not acceptable for anyone behind the wheel of a vehicle, and that includes a motorcycle. Unfortunately, there are numerous motorcycle accidents that involve the bike operating consuming alcohol. Motorcycle operators have the responsibility of watching all the other vehicles on the road. Many vehicle operators don’t stop to consider a motorcycle may be behind them or in a blind spot. You always have to be on top of such issues as you are riding. Make sure your motorcycle is has everything it needs to be operational at night. This includes a working headlight.

More experienced motorcycle riders are less likely to have an accident. This is because they understand the rules of the road in greater detail. They are also more relaxed as they are enjoying cruising on their motorcycle. However, a seasoned motorcycle operator can still end up in a accident if they aren’t paying attention. Always keep an eye on obstacles that may be in the road ahead of you. While most vehicles can run over a board or other debris without problem, it can be a major threat to a motorcycle.

Motor vehicle operators need to become more aware of the potential that a motorcycle may be in back of them or trying to pass them. The easily fit into a mirrors blind spot so take the time to look a couple of times before you make any moves. Always use your signal lights so that the motorcyclist can be watching what your actions will be as well.

Keep in mind that older models of motorcycles don’t feature turn signals. The motorcycle operator should be using hand signals to indicate right and left hand turns as they need to. You should pay close attention to motorcycles at night as well. That one head light you see in the distance may be a motorcycle or simply a vehicle with one light out. Be prepared for either one.

Keep your distance from the back end of a motorcycle. Should another vehicle have to stop suddenly in front of you, a rear end crash isn’t going to be as likely to injure someone as it will if that person is on a motorcycle. Rear ending one can cause the operator to loose control or to even fly off of the bike. Keep in mind that motorcycle riders are not as protected as those in an enclosed motor vehicle.

It doesn’t matter if you are a new motorcycle rider or someone with years of experience, being involved in an accident can happen at any time. While it is impossible to eliminate very type of hazard, you can do your part to ensure your riding adventures are as safe as possible. For those who operate motor vehicles, keep in mind that you are sharing the road with motorcycles and pay extra attention to their whereabouts. Working together, motorcycle accidents and motor vehicle accidents in general can be eliminated.

May 17th, 2011

The History of Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

The Harley-Davidson motorcycle has been in production since 1903. The brand offers a variety of models for both men and women. While this brand of motorcycle is among the most expensive, the models also have a reputation for being reliable and well built. Harley-Davidson bikes are also well know for the power behind them as they were initially built as a racing bike.

The sell of the motorcycles were slow in the beginning. The one cylinder bike they made in 1903 sold quickly, but by 1905 they had only sold 11. They continued to improve their designs, and it paid off. By 1908 they had sold 154. They decided to move production from a tiny barn to a factory and hired 20 employees. The bar and shield logo that graces each and every Harley-Davidson bike was introduced in 1910.

By 1912 the business was booming. There were 200 dealerships in the United States and Japan was demanding more and more bikes. By 1914 almost all motorcycles in the racing circuit were Harley-Davidsons as they could out run all other brands on the market. Over 20,000 bikes were sold to the military and used in the war. No one was surprised in 1918 when Harley-Davidson became the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world.

From 1940 until 1945 consumers were very disappointed as it was almost impossible to purchase a new Harley-Davidson. This is because the company had signed another large contract with the United States military, supplying motorcycles for the war. However, this lead to the 1950′s being a difficult time for Harley-Davidson as many consumers got tired of waiting and started purchasing other brands of motorcycles. By 1957 though Harley-Davidson was back on top with the introduction of the Sportster.

Minor changes to the style and design of the motorcycles took place through the early 1980′s. Harley-Davidson decided some major changes were in order. They introduced a model that featured a five speed transmission called the FLT. They also replaced the drive train with a belt. The twin engine was introduced in 1984.

Harley-Davidson has always taken pride in listening to the consumers of its products. They earned the respect of many owners in 1987 when they introduced their Buy Back Program. This allowed customers to obtain the full trade in value when they came to purchase a newer model.

Since then, Harley-Davidson has continued to introduce a variety of new designs including the Fatboy that has sold well. Men and women both find Harley-Davidson motorcycles to be comfortable bikes that are well designed. Riding one is also a prestigious symbol to many.

Today, you can find a variety of Harley-Davidson retailers all over the world. They offer a full range of motorcycles to choose from. You can even have a customized bike built for you from the factory. You will find the sales people to be friendly and informative. Harley-Davidson also offers one of the best warranties on motorcycles in the industry.
Harley-Davidson has stood the test of time when it comes to manufacturing quality motorcycles. This is because they have continually worked to improve upon their designs. They have also paid attention to what consumers are looking for and been willing to produce it when other motorcycle brands have hesitated. Harley-Davidson has earned a loyal consumer base with many claiming they won’t consider riding anything else. The company is reaping the rewards of their dedication, owning 62% of the motorcycle market.