Yamaha FZ6 Modifications

Aug 16, 2008 @ 08:42 am by admin

Yamaha FZ6This is Part 3 of my series related to modifications for the Yamaha FZ6 motorcycle. In Part 2 of the series I discussed some modifications related to grips, levers, and rearsets. In Part 3, I’m going to explore the benefits of fender eliminator (FE) kits, mirrors, and turn signals. This is a great time for me to discuss FE kits, as I just ordered one from ebay, and I’m anxiously awaiting its arrival. With a new fender also comes the obvious opportunity for replacing the stock turn signals. So, here we go:

* Fender Eliminator Kits - Fender eliminator kits for the Yamaha FZ6 are designed to replace the large rear fender, usually with a more compact piece. Many sport bikes come with a large, usually unsightly rear fender onto which the license plate mounts. The fender eliminator kits are aimed at cleaning up the look of the rear end and giving a more sporty appearance. The benefit of a fender eliminator kit is primarily, if not exclusively, aesthetic. There is no performance benefit that I can think of that would come from installing an FE kit. I actually just ordered a kit from ebay and it should be arriving in the next couple of days. Expect a post about the install with before and after pictures. Before purchasing one of these kits it’s important to decide what you’d like to be included in the kit. The piece I ordered allows for the stock turn signals and license plate light to be re-used. This is one reason I ordered this particular FE kit as I believe that the original lights are large and easily seen and distinguished by other motorists. Also keep in mind that in order to be legal, you must have a light for the license plate. Some FE kits don’t include any lights, such as the one I purchased, and some come with all new aftermarket turn signals and license plate lights. The lights that come with some kits are very small LED lights which are mounted exceptionally close together. To me, this is just an easy way to make it harder for other motorists to see what you’re doing. Later in this post I’ll discuss some of the options for after-market turn signals.

* Mirrors - There are a number of options available with which to replace the stock mirrors on the Yamaha FZ6. Some find that they cannot see behind them very well with the standard mirrors. Personally, I find that the stock mirrors do just what I need them to do. Additionally, changing mirrors can also change the overall look of the bike. Some simply don’t like the way the original mirrors look. Options include mirrors that mount in the same place, but have different finishes and shapes, and mirrors that mount on the bar ends and have different shapes, sizes, and finishes.

* Turn Signals - The turn signals that come with the Yamaha FZ6 are large and orange. This is to ensure that they meet all state and local laws pertaining to proper turn signal mounting, color, etc. Some people just don’t find these lights appealing and want to replace them with something a bit more sporty and inconspicuous. The advantages to after-market turn signals are aesthetic and safety related. The aesthetic value is obvious, and the safety benefits are debatable. Many of the turn signals available for the Yamaha FZ6 will mount flush on the front, and similarly on the back and are markedly smaller. Some simply have a different shape and/or lens color. My personal view is that smaller lights, even though they might be brighter, are not necessarily better. I’d rather have other motorists be able to see the lights and be able to tell where I’m intending to go as easily as possible. It is also worth noting that there are replacement tail lights available that include functionality to show directional signals. This would negate the need for any additional turn signal at all.

Thanks for checking out Part 3 of my series about Yamaha FZ6 Modifications to Consider. In the fourth and final post of this series I’ll be discussing:

* Brake lines

* Brake pads

* Frame Sliders

* Air Filter

http://yamaha-fz6.blogspot.com

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Yamaha Voltage Regulator

Aug 16, 2008 @ 08:41 am by admin

Yamaha Voltage RegulatorThe Yamaha XS1100 is argued by some to be one of the best all round motorcycles, pound for pound and dollar for dollar to come out of Japan and I’m sure some will go as far as to say, the world. Keeping in mind some people will argue about almost anything. I’ll admit after owning XS1100s since 1978 that at the end of the day that is the bike I kept. Now, don’t get all sideways on me I’m not saying this is the bike for everyone but it seems the xs1100 was made just of me.

Am I saying this bike has no flaws, certainly not they all do. Given enough time and miles the flaws show themselves to one rider or the other. Does the XS1100 have a flaw or two, you bet. Do I agree with the entire list that people run on me, No! This brings us to the subject of this article, the fuel gage voltage regulator.

I wouldn’t consider the fuel gage voltage regulator to be a serious flaw as it takes about 25 or 30 years for this little gem to become faulty.

I would also like to point out that this unit isn’t the large regulator mounted on the chassis. The regulator I’m writing about is very small [approx. 2″x 1″x ¾”] which is located on and under the tachometer inside the housing. The job of this little regulator is very simple which is to reduce the current from 12 volts [brown wire] to 7 volts [red & black wire] before going into the fuel gage meter. The 7 volts passes through the fuel gage meter then to the fuel sending unit in the gas tank. The float on the sending unit rises up or down with the fuel level which in turn is reflected on your fuel gage meter needle. If your fuel gage doesn’t work the fuel gage regulator could be the problem. Check it as follows. With the key on, see if you have 12 volts going into the fuel gage voltage regulator [ brown wire] if so, see if you have 7 volts coming out to the fuel gage [red & black wire] if you don’t and the ground is good [black wire] the fuel gage voltage regulator is bad. A little caution here, just because the bad fuel gage voltage regulator is replaced doesn’t mean that it will fix a faulty sending unit or bad wiring down line. However if you don’t fix a bad fuel gage voltage regulator your fuel gage surely will not work.

So start here and work your way down line. I realize that the old style regulator is getting a little harder to find, a bit pricey and even new units are old technology however new technology aftermarket pieces are available. They are the same size and fit into the same mounting holes. I’ve had mine for over a year now and have had no problems.

If you’re interested in the new technology units you might go to http://www.ronnsjob.com/yamahavoltageregulator where you’ll find a picture, installation instructions and see if this could be the solution to your problem.

Ronn Hardy is an ardent student of money, history, current events as well as a novice entrepreneur and a 38 year enthusiast of motorcycling.

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Automobile Vs Motorcycle Gas Mileage

Aug 10, 2008 @ 06:54 am by admin

Motorcycle Gas MileageHave you ever tried to drive an automobile? How about a motorcycle? Were you able to know and note their differences? Especially in this times where gas prices now at uprising as if it was like a space rocket that many customers have begun to search for substitute methods of transportation that can help them save money.

It is in here where gas mileage was only one feature or consideration in buying a car. In our present time, where gas prices are still increasing with the fear of breaking its record high, gas mileage factor has turned into the most considered and most important factor in buying a car.

Due to the existing and continuous soaring fuel prices, it’s interesting to note why gas motorcycle sales are flourishing. It is in here where the motorcycle mileage is incredible especially if you want something that can really be of big help in your savings.

In comparison, a gas powered motorcycle can get up to 100 miles of gas mileage per gallon. Seemingly, in a small car, if driven sensibly only gets around 38-43 miles per gallon. It is in here where a lot of trucks and other utility vehicles get gas mileage in the 18 mile per gallon range, with a fill-up estimate over $95. Other vehicles mileage makes motorcycle mileage look like a humorous story. In addition to the number of motorcycles advantages was that motorcycles have small gas tanks that are why it is much better. In fact, it can have a motorcycle mileage at around 100 mpg plus the fact that it can only seize one gallon of fuel; basically, it only proves that motorcycles can drive 100 miles on that one gallon of fuel. Analyze and try to compute for better understanding. Later on, you’ll realize that its sounds incredible cool!

Actually, it is not hard to notice that there is an in demand and boost in terms of motorcycles sales. Many people of today really switched to motorcycles for financial saving reasons. They could ultimately save a lot of money to do and accomplish their day to day activities. One thing to note here is that motorcycles are fun, easy yet challenging to drive.

- Motorcycles are popular and well liked by financial conscious people for basic reasons such as:
- Reduce fuel costs that helped them save more money
- Faster turn around time from office to home and other places.
- Environmental friendly
- Easy to maintain, no hassles and major problems and maintenance fees
- Fun, challenging and easy to drive plus they are one with nature

The environmental savings are also impressive for motorcycles burn and smoke less, aside from the economic factors of owning a motor scooter. Not only will you save money, but you will feel great because you helped the environment in its struggle for better and healthier place to live. You decide, what will you choose to drive? Is it an automobile or motorcycle?

Do you know that you can save a big deal on your gasoline bill right now?

Go to FullEarth4Energy Save on Gas to know on how to do this.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Calvin_Brock

Different Types of Harley Motorbikes

Aug 10, 2008 @ 06:53 am by admin

Harley MotorbikesThroughout the years, Harley Motorbikes continue to dominate the big-muscle motorcycle market with its excellent product offerings. Some of its best-looking and high-performing product lines are the Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster, VRSCD Night Rod, and VRSCR Street Rod. Aside from the total customer satisfaction that the company provides, all of its products are definitely meant to last for a lifetime.

After years of producing various kinds of wonderful and first-class motorcycles, Harley-Davidson Co. continues its great tradition of manufacturing the best-looking, super efficient, and heavy duty Harley Motorbikes. Many things have already changed, but its dedication to produce and deliver some of the best performing motorcycles goes on up to this very moment. Right now, it features a wide array of special motorcycles ranging from the classic Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster down to the tough looking Harley-Davidson VRSCR Street Rod.

The classic Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster has always been a regular product offering since the early years of the company. Some people love this model mainly because of its smaller and lighter figure compared to the regular motorcycles that the group manufactures. Aside from its rich history, this high-performing product line is without a doubt one of the best set of Harley Motorbikes available today. It comes in four special models namely the XL1200R Sportster Roadster, XL1200L Sportster Low, XL1200C Sportster Custom, and XL1200N Sportster Nightster. Made from the finest materials, Harley-Davidson offers these good-looking motorcycles from $8,695 to $9,695.

Meanwhile, the stylish Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King is another excellent line of Harley Motorbikes whose special designs are patterned after some of its best-looking models in the 1940s. Its basic features include hard-shell saddlebags, detachable windscreen, and big Hiawatha chrome headlamp, with the prices starting from $18,295 and can go up as high as $18,725. On the other hand, the comfortable Harley-Davidson FLSTN Softail Deluxe is a sleek yet very efficient model with highly innovative features such as the 6-Speed Cruise Drive transmission shift, ESPFI or Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection, and 1584cc Twin-Cam 96B balanced engine. Prices range from as low as $17,345 to as high as $18,150.

In the meantime, the traditional Harley-Davidson FXDL Dyna Low Rider is an excellent Harley Motorbike that combines the strength and style reminiscent of all its models. Its key features include a low-rise pullback handle bar, 4.8-gallon fuel tank, and 1584cc Twin-Cam 96 engine. Prices for this product line starts from $15,795 to $16,600. At the opposite side, the powerhouse Harley-Davidson VRSCAW V-Rod is patterned after a racing motorbike with the torque and acceleration as its forte. It features a 5.0-gallon tank, low-rise handlebars, and a beautiful customized rear shocks. The average price for this wonderful Harley Motorbike begins at $16,495.

The final two models from the latest roster of Harley Motorbikes are the muscular Harley-Davidson VRSCD Night Rod and the high-technology Harley-Davidson VRSCR Street Rod. The Night Rod features textured vinyl seat, minimalist rear shocks, and 1130cc Revolution engine. The average selling price for these super cool and highly efficient Harley Motorbike is $14,995. On the flip side, the Street Rod features a high performing Revolution V-Twin engine, wider handlebars, and dual-exhaust pipes. With all its great-looking features, the prices for this aggressive-looking motorcycle line are set at $15,495.

John Grant is a the author for a site about Harley Motors, where he is writing articles about the Harley Davidson Road King.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Grant

Are Choppers Only For The Big Guys?

Aug 03, 2008 @ 08:20 am by admin

ChoppersMotorcycles have been in vogue for a long time. They are heavy machines which are rugged and heavy. Men have always liked riding motorcycles. Choppers - a type of motorcycle, has have been in existence since the end of the Second World War.

Why did the choppers come into existence? Soldiers who fought in the Second World War were used to light motorcycles in Britain. They were fun to ride. They were dissatisfied Harley-Davidson, the company which manufactured heavy motorbikes. They wanted something different. They made changes by removing certain parts that were heavy and which made it look big and ugly. Fenders, front brakes, windshields and turn indicators were removed. The saddle was originally large and was made small. The whole bike was made convenient for dirt racing. The handle bars were higher than before. The front tire was thinner and the back fatter. The large foot rest, petrol tank and head light were made much smaller. They were generally made of black or shiny metal. Their seats were low but the pillion seat was much higher than that of the driver’s. Some even removed the batteries and had a magneto to reduce the weight of the bike.

The bike was transformed from the original. Not everyone had the same type of bike. It could be custom made by the small shops that had sprung up, to satisfy each person’s needs. They did not want to leave the Harley-Davidson model. They changed the original in such a way that it was a much lighter and fun bike to ride. These bikes are the choppers.

The main aim was to get a rugged bike like Harley-Davidson and chop off all the bulky parts and remove, fit and weld lighter parts. This made the bike lighter, faster and more maneuverable. These choppers are now being made by big companies also. This was initially the work of small motor bike shops which put together the various parts that the customer wanted. So, it was custom made. Now many varieties of choppers are made by companies that are the big manufacturers.

These bikes also have to be built according to a set of rules. They should be roadworthy and should be such that though the choppers are not heavy, they should be strong enough for using on roads. In the United States the custom made choppers are given license to be used on the highway. Not many countries give them this license.

Choppers are now used the world over. Some prefer using British or Japanese engines. These bikes are not restricted to be used by the big, burly, hefty guys. Although war veterans and others were involved in its making, these bikes are used by anyone who loves bikes. The different shape and the size makes it great fun to drive these bikes. Since choppers are manufactured the world over, all types of people, big and small, use these custom made choppers.

The choppers are mainly for their shape, size and speed. Its shape can be custom made to suit anyone’s needs. So, it is not necessary that only big guys can ride it. Although the ride can be risky, the high speeds definitely thrill the youngsters who love their choppers. Anyone interested in riding the chopper can do so.

Chris Martin is a SEO Copywriter of Chopper bike. He has written many articles on Custom choppers, custom chopper kit, east Texas chopper, chopper for sale …etc. For more information visit: east texas chopper or email us at chrismartinseo@gmail.com

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Motorcycle Accidents and Brain Injuries

Aug 03, 2008 @ 08:20 am by admin

Motorcycle AccidentsTwo of the most common injuries caused by motorcycle accidents are head injuries and brain injuries.

Once you understand the nature of these injuries and the impact they have on the victim and the family, you will realize the need for a good Motorcycle Accident Attorney.

In Orange County and many Los Angeles cities like Redondo Beach and Marina del Rey, all motorcycle riders must wear helmets that are DOT (Department of Transportation) approved. These helmets have been tested and meet high standards for head and brain injury protection.

Studies in the United States show that if a crash occurs, the motorcycle rider is less likely to suffer head and neck injuries if a helmet was being worn. Death rates and permanent disability injury rates are down also since California adopted the helmet law.

While it may be true that helmets do save lives, and the frequency of brain injury resulting from a motorcycle accident are down, brain injuries still do happen.

When a motorcycle accident occurs and brain damage is suspected, the victim will be taken to the emergency hospital. Once there, the hospital staff will work quickly to access the extent of the brain injury, stop any bleeding and look for internal injuries.

If you are a family member of the motorcycle accident victim and have gone to the hospital, you will find the stress level you experience may be unbearable as you wait for word on how your loved one is. Let the staff know you are there and would like to go in to see your loved one as soon as possible.

This first medical phase after a Los Angeles motorcycle brain injury accident is called the critical phase. The next medical phase to come is the long-term phase. It begins when the patient is relocated from the ICU to the Neuro-floor.

From here on healing and rehabilitation can begin. Family members may have to take time off work to be with their loved ones, making sure they get the best medical treatment possible that they need to recover. All of this is only the beginning of stress for both the victim and the family member.

Along with all the medical concerns, the financial burden of such an accident can be staggering. If you have ever been in a motorcycle accident or know someone who has, then the stresses these accidents can bring about are all too evident. Motorcycle accidents and brain injuries certainly need to have compensation claims filed for the victims and for the family.

The victims may have special long-term needs after such an injury. In Orange County and LA, there are many experienced and professional Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Attorneys who can help you with all your legal needs from brain injury, wrongful death and friction burns from asphalt.

Motorcycle Accidents and Brain Injuries via biopathics

LATER

-Dave Dragon
Ride it like you stole it

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The Ducati 1098s

May 10, 2008 @ 05:50 am by admin

Ducati 1098SThe 2008 Ducati 1098S is a thing of beauty. From Italy, the land of Ferrari and Lamborghini, comes the fastest v-twin superbike in production today, the Ducati 1098S. The 1098S is the result of when form and function blend together in a truly artistic and powerful way. The 1098S was developed after years of superbike racing and thousands of miles of on-road testing. Right out of the box it’s hard to find a better all-around motorcycle for the streets and highways wherever you might ride.

The Ducati 1098S features the Testastretta Evolucione engine, a fuel injected, two cylinder, 4-stroke motor that produces a whopping 160 horsepower @ 9750 rpm, and 90.4 foot pounds of torque @ 8000 rpm, it’s a smooth sounding wicked motor with power to burn. This motorcycle is put together so well and my hat is off to Ducati. Producing such a masterpiece is no small feat of engineering, and wrapping that slick body around such a monster of a motor just plain worked so well. In my humble opinion i can’t find a more elegant and handsome motorcycle in production today. Ducati is a legend in superbike racing, and taking from the Ducati racing ventures, this model is ready for the track the first second you put your hands on it!

The Ducati 1098S feature a six-speed transmission linked by chain to the tire and an aluminum Ohlins rear suspension holding a 6 inch rear tire to the pavement. The front brakes are a 4-piston, 13 inch disc design while the rear has two calipers and a 9.7 inch disc. The rear rebound damping is adjustable along with the shock as well as the front suspension. If you get a chance to ride one go after it, this ride will blow you away!

Visit the Ducati 1098S page on http://www.verticalriders.com for this awesome motorcycle. Also http://www.verticalriders.com features the fastest motorcycles in production for 2008, and awesome motorcycle videos. The Suzuki Hayabusa, Kawasaki ZX-14, Harley-Davidson VRSCDX, and Buell 1125R are some of the great bikes on this website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Geu

The 2008 Kawasaki ZX-10R

May 10, 2008 @ 05:49 am by admin

Kawasaki ZX-10RThe 2008 Kawasaki ZX-10, also called the Ninja ZX-10R, is all about performance, on the streets, or tearing up the track. The 2008 Ninja ZX-10R was born on the track, and the results were painstakingly transferred to the street-legal version, in this all-around fantastic version of a 1000CC sportbike! Not a lot of motorcycles can be taken on day one of ownership and deliver this amount of pure excitement, but the ZX-10R truly does!

Kawasaki, and their engineers, have employed a liquid cooled, 998CC, Dual Overhead Camshaft engine, with four valves per cylinder, that pushes out 83.2 foot-pounds of torque at 8,700 rpm. Weight was dropped from the engine by cutting channels in the crankcase, eliminating oil lines, and also adding a lighter crankshaft. Kawasaki added new secondary fuel injectors that helped to add top-end performance, along with reshaping the intake and exhaust ports. Kawasaki has always been a leader in ram-air induction, and this model has an even better system now due to re-shaping the velocity stacks and intake duct, which improves the flow of the air to the engine.

The dual front brakes have semi-floating 310mm discs, with dual four-piston radial mounted calipers. The rear brakes have a single 220mm disc with a single-piston aluminum caliper. The chassis is a twin-spar frame that has been re-designed to make it stronger around the swingarm pivot, and the swingarm has been re-designed with a top-mounted stabilizer to improve stability at high speeds.

The 2008 ZX-10R Ninja is a world-class motorcycle with a legendary history of racing success. Kawasaki did not forget their history with Kawasaki’s legendary green color, a must for the Kawasaki rider! Either on the street or track, this bike will blow you away!

Visit http://www.verticalriders.com for more 2008 motorcycle models and awesome motorcycle videos!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Geu

2008 Harley Davidson VRSCDX Night Rod

May 04, 2008 @ 04:10 pm by admin

Harley Davidson VRSCDXWhen most people think of a Harley-Davidson the first image that comes to their mind is a loud, grumbling, large motorcycle, traveling with 1500 of their drinking buddies dressed in black with large beards following along. The 2008 Harley-Davidson VRSCDX Night Rod is the Harley that shatters the image. Dressed in black, and the motorcycle Dracula would most likely ride, the VRSCDX Night Rod is one bad-ass ride. Made in the U.S., the Night Rod is being produced for riders who want a little more excitement from their ride. Not lacking the grumbling of the Harley-Davidson, it’s actually a really wild sounding bike, and like it’s riders, it will announce it’s prescence with authority.

Harley-Davidson jumped into the performance market in 2002 with the VROD and drools came from the motorcycle community. The VROD is a forward thinking, newly designed model born from a blank slate, with nothing borrowed from past years styles.

You have to give Harley-Davidson a lot of credit for not sticking with the same old styles that have worked well for them through the years. For this company to grow with the market, they needed to produce a model that went against the grain, and the VROD was a slam-dunk for them. Harley offered a model that was as sporty as they came and took away some of the market from the imports, and still left their American market happy that they could buy a domestic motorcycle with serious performance!

The 2008 Harley-Davidson VRSCDX, Night Rod, has a 1250CC motor that produces 125 horsepower at 62 RPM and 85 foot pounds of torque at 7000 RPM. The engine is liquid cooled and the brakes are 4-piston front and back. The VROD is already a legend in the Harley lineup and will be for years to come.

Visit http://www.verticalriders.com for 2008 Motorcycle Models and awesome Motorcycle Videos!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Geu

The 2008 Yamaha YZF-R1

May 04, 2008 @ 04:08 pm by admin

2008 Yamaha YZF-R1The 2008 Yamaha YZF-R1 is here! Born from MotoGP technology Yamaha claims the YZF-R1 is ” the most advanced open-class motorcycle ever built.” I must admit the R1 is one awesome looking motorcycle. The R1 has a liquid cooled 998cc in-line four cylinder powerplant, making more power than the previous versions. Yamaha also claims the 2008 R1 “is the most powerful, tractable R1 powerplant ever, thanks partially due to the worlds first electronic variable-length intake funnel system”. The throttle system is also cutting-edge due to Yamaha’s Chip Control Throttle, featuring a 32-bit ECU fuel injection system that adjusts the funnel length between 65 and 140mm for a smoother powerband.

As soon as you pick this motorcycle up you can rest assured you have an awesome streetbike that is ready for the track whenever you decide to run it. Technology runs rampant is this bike, and help from MotoGp technology will blast adrenaline through your soul! This bike has a 4.75 gallon, two-piece fuel tank, fuel in the back, and an airbox for the ram-air system in the front. The motor features fuel-injection, 12.7 to 1 compression, with dual overhead camshafts, and four valves per cylinder including titanium intakes. The transmission has a 6 speed gearbox with a #530 chain turning the rear tire. The front suspension is a fully adjustable, 43mm, KYB inverted telescopic front fork design, while the rear is an adjustable twist-style spring preload, with low and high-speed compression adjustability.

The front fairing is striking as well as functional. The large ram-air scoops bring power-producing air into the engine, and the design is aerodynamic for high-speed riding. Overall the 2008 YZF-R1 is a stylish cutting-edge motorcycle.

Visit http://www.verticalriders.com for more 2008 motorcycle models and awesome motorcycle videos!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Geu

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