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Saturday, December 24, 2005
Maintaining Your Dirt Bike
Dirt bike maintenance is one of those not-so-fun things about owning a dirt bike, but a little maintenance can keep your dirt bike running problem free for years to come. Granted, you'd rather not do it and riding is more fun, but a broken down dirt bike is zero fun.
You can stop a problem that costs a couple of a dollars to fix from become a major malfunction on your dirt bike by addressing little problems before they grow up into big problems. Keeping your dirt bike clean and maintained is one of the easiest ways to do this.
First of all, wash your bike after you ride. Get the dirt and debris off your bike and once you get in the habit of a post ride washing, it becomes second nature and you'll be able to wash your bike almost without thinking about it.
Check your chain tension and lube it if necessary, keeping your chain from getting stuck will save you a huge amount of problems. Check the chain itself and the sprockets. They take a lot of abuse when you ride and need the most maintenance. Next, give your dirt bike's air filter the once over. If it's dirty, try cleaning it and if it is really dirty or it has been a while since you changed it, spend a few bucks and change out the air filter. When you buy air filters, pick up an extra one to have around so when the time comes to change it out, you do not have to make a special trip to go buy one.
Check your dirt bike for loose bolts, loose spokes and tighten up anything that is loose. Give the bike a general going over to check for loose bolts, spokes and that everything is where it should be.
Give your brake pads a good going over and make sure there is no wear. Also, inspect your cables for fraying and wear. Replace if necessary.
Simple maintenance is easy once you get in the habit of it and it will let you have a safer and longer lasting dirt bike ride.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Minnesota Arrowhead ATV Club
Like many ATV clubs, the Minnesota Arrowhead ATV Club was formed by ATV riders who are concerned about preserving their right to ride in legally designated areas. Environmental movements are working hard to make established ATV riding trails off limits to off road enthusiasts, and they want to keep new ATV legal areas from being designated for use. The Arrowhead ATV club strives to speak in one voice for all area ATV riders in order to have a positive influence on all policy and law making regarding ATV use.
To promote the ATV fancy in a positive light, the club participates in highway litter pick up through the Adopt-A-Highway program. The club is truly environmentally friendly and understands how crucial it is to keep the land in the best possible condition. They also participate in planting thousands of trees each spring on public lands.
The Arrowhead ATV Club meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Chalet Lounge in Hermantown at 7:00 pm, and puts out a quarterly newsletter to keep members apprised about upcoming events. The club also sends a delegate to DNR meetings to make sure their voice is heard regarding all ATV decisions, resulting in a positive relationship with state wild life area officials.
If you think you may like to join the Arrowhead ATV Club, just contact them through their website at:http://www.angelfire.com/mn3/arrowheadatvclub/.
Remember, we all have to ride responsibly or accept the consequences.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Tips for Purchasing a Dirt Bike Helmet
When you want to ride a dirt bike, you put a lot of research and thought into your purchase of which bike would be the best for you. What make and model, the power of the engine and other features. You should put just as much thought into purchasing a dirt bike helmet. After all, your helmet may very well save your neck in the most literal sense of the word.
First of all, don't even consider a helmet that isn't up to DOT or Snell standards. No matter how cool, if it won't give you real protection in the event of an impact, who cares who great it looks?
Never, ever use a previously owned helmet. A helmet is good for one impact only and you have no way of knowing if that helmet has been gone through a hit or not. You can't always tell by looking. Always get a new helmet.
Will you need venting? Some helmets have it and some don't. If getting hot when riding is very distracting for you, definitely opt for the venting feature. Weight is another consideration when purchasing a helmet for riding your dirt bike. If you do longer track rides, go for a lighter weight helmet so you won't get as fatigued as quickly as a heavier helmet would make you.
Next consideration, your head is going to sweat. You're human and you're going to work up a sweat when you ride. Invest in a helmet with a removable liner for easy washing. Otherwise other riders will be able to smell you coming after a season of riding and no washing of your helmet liner.
Last big concern is fit. Your helmet should fit snugly but not uncomfortably tight. Make sure you still have periphreal vision when you're wearing your dirt bike helmet.
Now that you know the basics, get yourself a great dirt bike helmet and have a blast out there riding the tracks!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Ways to Improve your Childs Safety for Motocross
You can never be too safe when it comes to your kids. Riding motocross is no exception. You can look it from two different aspect. Safety gear is a priority and your choice of bike for your child and making sure they know how to handle that bike is the other main aspect of having good safety practices for your child.
First of all, make sure that your child is ready to ride. A child of 9 may possess far more responsibility in riding than another 12 year old. No one knows your child better than you, look objectively at your own child. No matter how badly they want to ride, ask yourself if your child can be responsible to look out for others when riding, pay attention and will practice good safety lessons. If your child is ready, you're ready to go.
Make sure your child has a bike that fits their body. Don't get a bike for your child to "grow" into. This is a way injuries happen. Get a bike for your child at this time so proper riding techniques and safe practices when riding can be learned the correct way. Enroll your child in lessons. Let a pro teach your child proper techniques and children generally listen to riding instructors better than their own parents studies have shown.
Next, get the correct safety gear for your child. Get a good fitting helmet, goggles and full racing outfits. Don't skimp. Don't use a previously owned helmet. Helmets are good for one impact only and you wouldn't want to take the chance with your child's health whether or not that helmet has been used.
Last but not least,use common sense. Never let your child ride alone or unsupervised. Never let them ride when they are tired or taking any type of cold medication. Make sure your child is responsible to read signs for right of way on the track. With a little preparation,you can make sure your child has a great and safe time riding motocross!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
California Registration for Off Highway Vehicles
To register your ATV and/or Off highway vehicle in California, you only need to follow a few simple steps. Your ATV/OHV needs to be registered at the Department of Motor Vehicles and the renewal fee is due on June 30th of each year. There is a 50% penalty on your renewal for failing to register or renew your registration with the Department of Motor Vehicles by this date.
The benefits of having a valid registration for your ATV/OHV are many. You will able to operate your ATV/OHV on any public or private riding facility without the threat of getting a ticket. All federally managed riding areas (such as state parks and national forests) will require state registration and to carry proof of such when you ride your ATV/OHV on these lands.
The ATV/OHV license plate is green and blue and shows the month and year of expiration in the center of the plate. If your OHV is a motorcycle that you use solely in organized racing or competitive events on a closed course, you may obtain a permit (from a DMV field office) that allows transportation of the vehicle to and from course events without registration. The permit is a reflectorized red and white numbered sticker that should be mounted on the vehicle in a clearly visible location. This transportation permit remains valid until the vehicle is sold or otherwise dismantled.
In order to register your ATV/OHV you will need the following documentation : an application for registration of new vehicle, payment for applicable ATV/OHV fees, the title to your vehicle, and the manufacture's Certificate of Origin endorsed to the nonlicensed dealer and any bills of sale needed to establish a complete chain of ownership to the applicant.
If you ride your ATV/OHV in California, be sure to get your vehicle registered with the State, it will save you a lot of unnecessary hassles and insure you get to keep a good day of riding, just that- a good day!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Helpful tips for Buying ATV / Dirt Bike Goggles
When you need to buy ATV/dirt bike goggles, it isn't hard to do, just keep in mind what the basic purpose of goggles are: to keep dirt and debrit out of your eyes. A good pair of goggles costs far less than a trip to the emergency room and the possibility of loss of vision in one or both of your eyes.
First of all make sure your ATV/dirt bike goggles give you good periphreal vision. You to be able to see the other people/obstacles around you at all times or a bad situation could result.
Now that you found a pair that give you good visuals on all sides. Check out the fit. Make sure they are comfortable and get a good seal around your face to keep dirt, debris and sweat out of your eyes. They shouldn't pinch your face or especially the bridge of your nose, if they do - this pair doesn't fit.
After you find a pair that give you good periphreal vision and a good fit now make sure they are made of a good, durable plastic and have a non-shatter safety rating. Ask some of the other riders what kind of ATV/dirt bike goggles they prefer and you'll get a good idea of what features are really important especially if you are new to riding.
Easy on and easy off is a boon if you ride your ATV on trails. Roll off goggles are best if you are into endurance riding on your dirt bike because the film will last longer.
There are some great choices in goggles out there and all you have to do is find the best pair of ATV/dirt bike goggles for your face and then get out there and have a blast!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
ATV Safety Tips
Riding an ATV is a lot of fun, in fact it is a whole lot of fun and you may have heard that they are unsafe and cause injuries. It is unfortunate that injuries have occurred when people were riding their ATVs, but did you know that nearly all ATV injuries can be put into three main catagories? The first catagory belongs to injuries which occurred because someone was operating an ATV with no training or supervision. The second major reason for injury belong to the group of people who chose not to wear a helmet when they ride. The third group is small but belongs to individuals who chose to operate their ATVs under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
First of all, don't be in the first group. There are numerous ATV clubs and even your local Department of Motor Vehicles has safety classes for ATV riding. There are also individuals that give lessons. Learn your ATV. Know your machine's strong points and limitations. It's not hard to do, it just takes a little time but it is effort that is well worth it for the knowledge and good riding skills that you will attain.
The second group of folks that don't want to wear helmets is another easily avoidable accident. There are numerous styles and types of helmets available that fit every head and riding gear color. You can find a helmet that suits your riding style perfectly. Never use a used helmet. Helmets are good for one impact only, so don't chance it with a used helmet. You're wearing a helmet to protect yourself above all.
The third group is another accident you can easily spare youself. Don't imbibe when you ride. You need your senses to remain sharp when you ride, save that beer for the when the days riding is over and you have a little get together around the campfire.
Just following these three main tips will insure a great time riding your ATV for a lifetime of safe fun!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Friday, December 23, 2005
Georgia ATV Rules and Regulations
Georgia has some great places to ride your ATV, but you need to be familiar with the State rules and regulations before you ride. A ticket is a no fun and can put a real damper on your day of ATVing.
In order to ride your ATV on federally managed lands in Georgia, you must follow all State vehicle laws and must have a valid driver's license. An exception to this regulation is made on a few Forest Service roads specifically designated by the Forest Supervisor for ATV travel. However, you will have to travel on roads and trails that enforce the other rules and regulations to get to the non-regulation ATV roads.
ATVs must stay on designated ATV trails and roads and in assigned areas marked specifically for off road vehicle use. Pay close attention to the signage, as some trails are restricted for a certain type of use such as only motorbikes or only four-wheel drive vehicles. These restrictions are set for safety reasons and to meet the special needs of each type of vehicle. For example, there are some types a terrain an ATV will handle better than a motorbike and those safety issues were taken into consideration when these trails were designated.
If you do not have a valid driver's license or you are underage, you must be accompanied by an adult and/or licensed driver. Unlicensed drivers are not allowed to operate ATVs on federally managed lands or public roads.
The damage for getting caught, this was the ruining your day of riding I was telling you about, can result in a ticket to the tune of up to $500 and/or up to six months in prison. It's a small thing to make sure you're riding within the limits of the law and have a properly licensed and registered ATV in Georgia. Now that you know the basics, have a great day of riding your ATV in Georgia.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Alaska ATV Registration
If you own an ATV in Alaska, you need to read this article. While ATVs are not required to be titled in Alaska they are required to be registered. If your ATV has low pressure tires, it may qualify under the law as a snow vehicle.
You must obtain a registration for your ATV each year. When doing so you must be able to show a bill of sale for your ATV, a copy of the warranty card, and along with the title for your ATV. If you skip a year or let your registration otherwise expire, you will be required to purchase a registration for two, four or six years for the current calendar year.
The pricing is as follows:
$10.00 - One Season (Two years)$20.00 - Two Seasons (Four years)
$30.00 - Three Seasons (Six years)
You will be issued two decals to show proof of registration when riding. These decals are validated by a tab each registration period. The decal number becomes the permanent registration for ATV.
This will allow you ride anywhere in Alaska, whether is it on private trails or federally managed forest lands. Make sure your decals are displayed in prominent areas on your ATV when riding so if you get stopped by a ranger or other authority, you can readily show you're legal to ride!
Registering your ATV in Alaska isn't difficult and the cost of a ticket for driving an unregistered vehicle costs a lot more. Make sure your ATV is properly decaled and registered so you can concentrate on the reason you bought your ATV, to have a great, safe time riding!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Do I Have To Register My ATV In Delaware
The short answer to that question is : Yes, you do have to register your ATV and any Off-Highway Vehicle for that matter. It is a State Regulation that is absolutely enforced. Don't get caught riding without a registration, the ticket isn't worth it compared to the small cost of registration.
In order to register your ATV in Delaware, you must go in person to the Division of Motor Vehicles office. Then all you have to do is provide a description of your ATV which includes make, year and serial number and you must be at least 18 years of age unless you have at least one parent or legal guardian who provides written consent on the application and accompanies you to the Division of Motor Vehicles Office. The fee for registration is $6.00 for three years. You may pay via cash or check, credit cards are not accepted.
Further Delaware regulation that you should know state that ATVs may not be operated on public streets or highways, and the rider must have the permission of the property owner before operation on private property.
A helmet is also required by law no matter what the age of the ATV rider. This includes all ATV operators and passengers. The ATV helmet must be completely in place with the chinstrap fastened.
Delaware also requires that all ATVs have a braking system installed and a muffler in place that reduced the noise levels of the vehicle by up to 60-percent. Spark arrestors are required if you are riding your ATV on federally managed lands to reduce the chance of forest fire.
Now that you know the rules and regs for riding your ATV in Delaware, get out there and have a great time!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Registering Your ATV
If you're an ATV owner, you've probably read all the regulations and rules regarding safety and safety equipment and you know whether or not your State requires helmets to be worn when riding (even if your State doesn't, it's just intelligent to wear protective gear when riding) but do you need to register your ATV?
There is a difference between getting a title and registering your ATV. A title means you own your ATV and that piece of paper proves it. A registration makes your ATV legal to ride on publicly owned lands, roads and most federally managed forests require ATV registration.
Contact your local Department of Transportation to find out if your ATV needs to be registered in your State. It can mean a ticket and a ruined day of ATVing not knowing, so get a jump on the law and find out the facts before your and get caught unaware.
Most registrations take place either throught the Department of Transportation or the Department of Revenue for most States that require it. The fees for registering your ATV can range from $10 up to $45, but remember that is still less than a citation for riding an unregistered ATV.
Certain States require that your ATV be registered on a yearly basis and collect a small percentage of tax based on your ATV registration fee. For most States, these fees go for the upkeep of federally managed lands (such as National Forests) and other conservation programs to keep the ATV trails and riding areas open.
Know the laws of your State for registering your ATV and don't get caught not knowing!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Windrock ATV Club of Tennessee
The Windrock ATV Club is based in Oliver Springs, Tennessee, and the club is a very active one. The members fully support responsible riding in order to build a better relationship with local authorities and preserve the right of all ATVers to ride off road in currently legal areas.
To this end, the club participates in a work day program at the Coal Creek area ATV trails on the third Saturday of every month, performing whatever maintenance is need to keep the ATV trails clear and open. They meet at the Permit Shed at 8:00 AM to hand out the work details and everyone is welcome to come and help. Any necessary tools are provided, but it is recommended that you bring your own work gloves, and a few trash bags if you can spare them. The ATV trails do remain open during this time, and it's a great way for new and potential members to get to know the club and the ATV trails. The club provides supper for everyone who participates.
This ATV club also has a very active ride schedule. Events for 2006 include rides at Pickett State Park on February 26th, and Evarts, Kentucky on Mar 26th. One of the highlights of this club's ATV year is participating in the Spring ATV Jamboree which will be held April 20th through the 24th.
If you would like more information on this ATV club and it's activities you can reach them through their website at: http://www.windrockatv.com/.
Happy riding!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
What to Expect If Your Child Wants To Race Motocross
What can a parent expect when their child wants to race motocross? Well, you can definitely expect a lot of heart-racing thrills, but there are many expenses and risk of injury. If you are ready to put your child into motocross the risks can be significantly reduced by purchasing the proper and approved safety equipment. We all know that motocross can be a dangerous sport, but safely it can be enjoyed by parent and child.
Another form of precautionary safety measure is the instruction by an AMA Certified instructor, a lot of former riders now teach. These instructors can teach the children skills that can make them safer on the track as well as skills that could increase their competitive edge. Instruction is very helpful but could be pricey. Another way to teach safety in competition is that it's not always important to be the winner, over-confidence can lead to decisions that may cause injury not only to your child, but all the riders on the track as well as spectators. Purchasing a bike is the first major hurdle.
Your local motorcycle shop can help you find what size and type of cycle you will need for the use you are going to put it too. You can expect other costs such as replacement parts, performance parts, tune-ups, entry fees, travelling among other things. Remember, new is not always a necessity, you won't have to purchase the newest hottest bike every year or two. A well maintained bike can have years of life, besides why do you think they invented stickers?. Once you get a bike and safety gear, your next step is to find a track. You can usually catch the buzz off of other motocross parents of where the best tracks are and at the tracks you can get information about competitive events.
As a motocross parent you can also expect a long day when racing, such as getting up at 4:30 am to be to the race by 6 am and not coming home until 6 in the evening, but if you and your child's love of motocross is strong these days will be most enjoyable.
Motocross can be used to spend quality time together with your child, from travelling to the race, cheering on your child, to performing maintenance on the cycle together, motocross can be fun for all. What can you expect if your child wants to race motocross? Expect the unexpected, push safety, and make it an exciting family experience.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
All About The Ontario Federation Of ATV Clubs
The Ontario Federation Of ATV Clubs was formed in order to promote the sport of ATVing throughout the province of Ontario, and provide support and up to date information for all local ATV clubs.
This non-profit organization offers various benefits to it's member clubs such as:
* Participation in their insurance plan.
This gives ATV clubs a low cost insurance policy that they can show to landowners when they are seeking permission to ride on their land. Landowners are more likely to say yes with this peace of mind.
* ATV Policy Guidelines.
The ATV Federation offers policy guidelines which promote safe and responsible riding on the ATV trails as well as provisions for safeguarding the environment.
* The ATV Federation website.
The Federation website is chocked full of useful information such as upcoming rides, and offers participating ATV club members the opportunity to post free ads to buy or sell ATV related items as well as post about lost or stolen ATVs and accessories.
* Referrals for your club.
ATV clubs need to grow in order to remain healthy and the Ontario ATV Federation will send membership referrals from ATV riders seeking membership in your club's area. More members means more informed ATV riders who will represent our sport in a positive light and help everyone maintain the right to legal ATV riding.
If you are currently in an ATV club in the Ontario area, or would like to get a referral to one, just contact the Ontario Federation of ATV Clubs through their website at:http://www.ofatv.org/.
We're sure they have something to offer all ATV riders.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Iowa ATV Clubs: The Iowa Dirt Surfers
The Iowa Dirt Surfers ATV club is located in Cedar Rapids, and caters to local ATV and motorcycle enthusiasts. This ATV club is strictly non-profit and depends on membership dues to cover the cost of producing their monthly club newsletter.
This ATV club is very family oriented and strives to preserve the right for all ATVers and other off roaders to ride in legally designated areas, as well as trying to gain permission to ride on private property. They want to put a positive light on the ATV sport before a few bad apples ruin it for everyone.
This is a very fun and active ATV club, offering monthly rides at many of the ATV riding parks around the state. They have even sponsored longer riding events to Indiana, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma. They ride year round, weather permitting though they love to play in the snow! Night rides also happen about two times each year.
The club's website contains a photo gallery of club members at various ATVing events. This is a nice way for potential members to get a feel for the club and to check out the types of ATV trails they usually ride. The website also has a page to list upcoming rides and other events.
Membership in this ATV club is $30.00 for 1 year. Half of this fee goes to support the Iowa Off-Highway Vehicle Association which works with state officials to help develop fair ATV guidelines and laws that will preserve the environment while maintaining the ATVer's right to legally ride.
You can contact the Iowa Dirt Surfers at: http://www.iowaohv.com/index.htm.
Ride responsibly!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
How To Keep Your Dirt Bikes Shocks And Forks In Good Condition
To keep your dirt bike shocks and forks in good condition, preventative maintenance is a key factor. Shock absorbers should be externally cleaned at least once a month. After cleaning, visually inspect the shocks for dull or pitted spots on the shaft, and for leaks around the seals.
Next, slide the bump rubberf up the shaft and inspect the shaft where the bump rubber sits. This is very important in the prevention of shaft damage/replacement. Once a month grease all the shock bushings and all suspension linkage parts. Depending on the type of riding you do you will need to change the fluid and do an internal inspection about every 3 to 6 months, and seals should be replaced once a year. Forks on your motocross bike also need external cleaning after each day of riding. Fluids should be changed every 6 to 8 months.
If you ride where the track is loose and your bike gets extremely dirty, you may have to do these maintenance steps a little more often. Get to know your bike and you'll soon get a regular maintenance routine that works without taking up a huge amount of time.
You should also do an internal cleaning and inspection of your forks every 3 months depending on the amount of riding. Following these preventative maintenance tips for your motorcycle can keep your dirt bikes shocks and forks in good condition for many days of competition or just plain motocross fun. Also, by following these tips you can save money in the long run. Always remember to be safe and have fun.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
How to Get Motocross Sponsorship
Hoping to expand your resources by getting professional sponsorship for your motocross activities? It's about more than just winning races!
Many motocross sponsors care just as much about how you present yourself as they do about how many races you win, although winning certainly doesn't hurt. Mainly they don't want their motocross company name associated with any negative connotation. You need to ride responsibly and conduct yourself decently so you are a good representative for the sport as well as your sponsor. With that in mind, let's take a look at the basic steps for obtaining your own motocross sponsor.
Your Resume
You need to compile a well written record of who you are and your past motocross achievements, as well as upcoming races you are participating in. Give details about yourself that will help your potential sponsor get a feel for who you are, and provide photos of yourself in action as well as any media coverage you may have received. Include any other past or present motocross sponsors you may have. Don't forget your contact information!
Contacts
If you've been racing a while, you probably have some kind of relationship with the motocross supplier you get your gear from. This is a good place to seek your initial motocross sponsorship from. From here, you can build your reputation and hopefully expand your sponsorship base to other motocross companies.
Live Up To Your Deal
The old saying goes: "If you talk the talk, you've gotta walk the walk", or in this case ride the ride. Remember that you must always present yourself in a positive light because everything you do and say reflects on your motocross sponsor. Unprofessional or un-sportsman like behavior will certainly lose you the motocross sponsorship deal you've worked so hard to get.
Hope this info gives you what you need to start working on your own motocross sponsorship deal.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Who is Chad Reed?
Chad Reed began his quest to become Supercross Champion on March 15, 1982 when he was born in the small town of Kurri Kurri, Ausralia.
In 1985 at about 3 1/2 years old, Chad received his first motorcycle, a Yamaha PW50, and entered his first race in 1986 at just 4 years old. Determined to be the best since day one, Chad Reed raced his way to the top of the Australian Supercross circuit taking the the championship in 1999 and again in 2000.
In 2001 Reed came one step closer to becoming the next King of Supercross by heading to Europe and the famed GP tracks. Chad competed in the FIM 250 World Championships finishing second and secured himself a spot on the Yamaha of Troy racing team for 2002. Reed's dream was now reality with the title for the taking. Yamaha of Troy put Chad Reed on a YZ250F in the 125 East Championship, and Reed blazed past the competition winning seven of eight races and the 2002 125 Supercross Championship. An amazing rookie year for now 20-year old Reed.
For 2003, Chad Reed would go on to win an outstanding 15 out of 18 races, the last six in a row, and the World SXGP title. Because Chad Reed is doing something that he loves, motocross could probably never be considered a job. Living in Dade City, FL Chad also enjoys golf, blackjack, cycling, water sports, jet skiing, boats, building things and just hanging out with friends. Some of his favorites are Steak and Lobster, action and comedy movies, many kinds of music, lifting weights, and of course, his wife Ellie. Chad Reed is definite proof that if there is a will there is a way.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Handling Motorcycle Chain Problems and Stuck Throttles
If you have chain problems and stuck throttles while riding your motorcycle it is not going to be a pleasant experience to deal with. Making sure that you follow the pre ride rules is the first step in trying to avoid this happening to you. However, you might just do all of your pre ride tests and then some, and still have problems with your motorcycle. Things can happen no matter how much you plan. So if your throttle gets stuck when you are riding you are going to have to think and act quickly so that you can avoid an accident. This is especially true if you are making a turn or attempting to slow down for traffic.
One of the first things that you should do is to try and twist the throttle back and forth a few times. If your throttle cable is what is stuck than this should work and free it. You can also try to close the throttle again. If this isn't working then you can activate the engine cut off switch. Make sure that you pull in the clutch as you are doing this. This action will stop power to the rear wheel but not to the engine right away. It takes a little bit of time for the engine to rev down to a stop.
Once you have your motorcycle under control you are going to have to pull off the road and come to a stop. You need to check to see what caused the chain problem and stuck throttle as you were riding your motorcycle. Check the cable for the throttle closely to see if you can find the source of the trouble. If you cannot get the throttle to work properly then you definitely don't want to attempt to ride your motorcycle. Use your cell phone or a pay phone to call for help. Or this would be the perfect opportunity in which to use your roadside assistance which you should have secured. If you haven't gotten roadside assistance you are going to be kicking yourself.
You absolutely do Not want to attempt to drive your motorcycle if you have not been able to fix your stuck throttle problem. This is not something that you want to play around with as it can be very dangerous. So make sure that you wait for help to arrive if your throttle is not working properly. No matter how much you might be tempted to get to where you are going, it is better to be safe than sorry. Riding your motorcycle can be a very dangerous activity. So it is best left to someone that is very experienced and trained and has common sense as well. That means knowing how to be safe and when to take action as well as when to not take action. Making sure that you have fixed all chain problems and stuck throttle problems before riding your motorcycle is something that you cannot afford Not to do. So remember to be smart and be safe.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
The "Right" Way To Wash Your Dirt Bike
Do you normally wash your dirt bike after you go through some decent
riding? If so, that is great because washing your bike is very important.
However, many people do not know how to properly wash their dirt bike.
There are some simple tips and tricks that you can use to ensure that you are
getting the most out of your washing process.
When you are looking to give your dirt bike a good washing, one of the most
important things that you should do is lay the dirt bike on its side for a good
rinsing. This way, you are better able to remove all of the stuck on dirt they
may be laying underneath the bike. There are several spray on cleaners that
work really well to help you remove all of the unwanted dirt and soil.
Another good idea is to be sure that you inspect your brake pads and disks as
well as your chains and sprockets. This is a good step along with inspecting
the rest of the drive train to be sure that nothing jiggled or moved out of
place during your ride. You can take a decent degreaser to the chain and
sprockets as well to be sure that you get rid of any gunk that is not wanted.
Once you have gone through the washing process, it is a smart idea to go
through and be sure that all of the important parts get a chance to dry
properly. Removing the ignition cover and your seat are two great places to
start to be sure that everything dries as it is supposed to. When you are
finished, your dirt bike will seem as if it were cleaned by a pro!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Avoid Accidents when Riding a Motorcycle
It is in your best interest to avoid accidents when you are riding on your motorcycle. Now that is a pretty obvious comment but learning ways to do this is very important. Keeping yourself safe and staying out of danger takes knowledge and alertness. Here are some of the important ways that you can try and protect yourself and others so that you can avoid accidents when riding your motorcycle. Trying to incorporate as many of these habits as you are riding is the best way to start on the road to becoming the safest rider that you can be.
One of the first things that you can do to help yourself be safe is to wear clothing that is going to make you highly visible to other drivers that are on the road. This is especially important at night when visibility is extremely limited. Use your headlights all of the time, even in the daytime. Make sure that you make your intentions clear to other drivers. You can accomplish this by using all of your signals properly, using your brakes lights and keeping a proper lane position. If other drivers know what you are preparing to do then they can act accordingly to make sure that they are not going to collide with you and your motorcycle.
Speaking of collisions, another good way to avoid one is to make sure that you have a big enough space between your motorcycle and other vehicles. Making sure that you have an adequate cushion of space when you are following another vehicle goes a long was to avoiding accidents. Make sure that you keep this cushion when you are being followed, sharing lanes and passing other vehicles as well. Having enough space between you and other vehicles gives you more time and distance to react to potential problems if they occur.
Another tip for avoiding accidents is to be aware and alert to all that is going on around you. If you are a diligent rider then this should stop a lot of problems before they can even turn into something worse. Make sure that you scan the road ahead of you for up to 10 to 15 seconds of travel time. Be aware of what is going on behind you and on both sides of you as well. It is good to know what is right around you and also what is up ahead of you and what is coming up on you. This can help to alert you to potential hazards and help you to avoid them if it is at all possible.
Being alert is one of the most important things that you can do. The second most important thing that you can do is to make sure you know the actions to take to avoid a crash. Knowing how to react or what to do is very important. This is something that can be halfway learned but the real learning can only come from experience. The many ways to avoid accidents when riding a motorcycle are best applied every single time that you ride your motorcycle, so that you can stay as safe as you possibly can.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Who is Travis Pastrana?
If you don't know who Travis Pastrana is, then you must not know what motocross is either. At only 22 years old, this hot young MX rider has more championships under his belt than most riders will ever dream of. Born October 8, 1983, in Annapolis, MD, Travis has been competing since age 4. From the X-Games and the Gravity Games to National and AMA motocross events, Travis Pastrana has out raced and tricked out the best of them. Travis is always looking for new and innovative ways to impress the crowd and dominate the competition.
Looking at Travis Pastrana's resume, you'll have no question how he easily obtained his many sponsors. While riding for Suzuki, Travis Pastrana has picked up other sponsors such as DC Shoes, Michelin, Thor, Alpine Stars, Red Bull, m2r, Kicker, Parts Unlimited, Nixon, MasterCraft, and Ogio Bags. In competition Travis Pastrana is second to none, grabbing Gold at the X-Games in '99, '00, & '01, also at the Gravity Games in '99, & '02, to name a few. In the world of motocross Travis Pastrana entered as Pro racer in 1999 to take first place in the 125CC class. He was voted AMA Rookie of the Year and National 125 Rookie Champion in 2000. In 1998 Travis Pastrana was also the World Freestyle Champion at the age of 14. Besides motorcycles, Travis also enjoys golf, jet skiing, boating, and mountain biking. Oh, did I mention Travis was the 1998 National Dual Slalom Mountain Bike winner?
Recently, Travis Pastrana has acquired sponsorship from Subaru to race rally cars, impressing rally insiders by finishing 3rd in class and 4th overall in his first race, while driving a Subaru WRX STi. Vermont Sportscar, the company that built Pastrana's car, sponsored him in seven rounds of the 2005 Rally America National Championship. With all this up his sleeve, Travis Pastrana will surely be one to watch.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Tips For Motorcycle Positioning
When you are thinking about purchasing a motorcycle or if you are thinking
about doing so, it is very important that you learn how to ride safely. There is
nothing more exhilarating than a ride out on the open road. Motorcyclists
take great pride in their ability to ride, and it is very important for the safety
of not only yourself, but for everybody on the road that you learn how to
position yourself in a proper manner on your motorcycle.
Being in the proper position on your motorcycle also means that you are set
up to properly control yourself when you are riding. You want to be sure that
you are able to hold the handlebars firmly just in case any bumps in the road
can catch you off guard. It is equally important that you also sit close enough
that you have plenty of play when you are trying to steer and turn your
motorcycle. The last thing you want to do is have to stretch to be able to
maneuver the bike.
When you are looking to turn, it is commonly known to be a good idea to
hold your knees up close to the gas tank. This can give you the balance that
you need. You also want to be sure that you are always keeping your feet
firmly pressed down on your foot pegs. It can always be dangerous if your
feet are too low for the possibility of catching them on something.
If you follow a few of these simple guidelines for proper body positioning
when riding, you are on the road for a great ride. Stay alert and always be
sure that you keep comfortable. Most of all, stay safe!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Motorcycle Braking properly is Important
Motorcycle braking properly is one of the most important things that you are going to need to learn when riding your bike. There is more to stopping your motorcycle than just hitting the brakes. You need to learn how motorcycle brakes work both mechanically and in application. Motorcycle braking is different than braking in a vehicle and requires different knowledge than the average vehicle driver has. You need to know that motorcycles have two brakes. There is the front brake which is operated by the right hand and then there is the rear brake that is operated by the right foot. Both pre ride brakes are needed in order for the motorcycle to be able to stop effectively. Following these important guidelines can help you in using your motorcycle brakes effectively.
One of the big things would be to make sure that you use both motorcycle brakes each time you either slow down or come to a stop. This is good practice for you to learn how to use the front brake properly. Its better to know how to use the front brake before you actually need to use it. If you use only the rear brake, you may never learn how to use the front brake properly and that could be a real pain, especially when you need it.
Proper motorcycle braking requires that you squeeze the front brake and press down the rear brake smoothly. Make sure you gradually increase the pressure as needed. Don't jerk the front brakes or hit the rear brakes hard as it can cause the brakes to lock up. This can result in your motorcycle skidding and causing you control problems. That is something that you definitely want to avoid. Make sure that you also apply both brakes at the same time. The sooner that you apply the front brakes of your motorcycle the sooner you are going to slow down.
The best rule of thumb is to complete your braking before you enter a turn whenever it is possible. If this isn't possible and you need to brake as you are turning then you can use the front brake as well as the rear as long as the road isn't too slippery. However, make sure that you apply the brakes gently as you don't have as much traction when the motorcycle is leaning. And you are obviously leaning the bike if you are going around a turn.
Checking your owner's manual for your motorcycle is a good idea because some bikes have combined braking. This is where both the front brake and the rear brake are applied when you use the rear brake pedal. So it is good for you to know how your motorcycle works. Also don't forget that the front brake provides about 3/4ths of the motorcycles stopping power. It's safe for you to use it to stop quickly as long as you are applying it correctly. One other rule of thumb for motorcycle braking is to make sure that you don't jam the front brake hard when you are riding on a slippery surface. This can be very hazardous and cause you to go into a skid. So make sure that you use the brakes cautiously on wet or icy roads and also begin braking sooner than you normally would. Using your motorcycle brakes correctly can go a long way to keeping you and other drivers safe.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Monday, December 19, 2005
About Jeremy McGrath
Jeremy McGrath has become a household name in the motocross world. Thought to be the Michael Jordan of Supercross by most, Jeremy smoked the competition in 2000 by winning his 7th Supercross Championship in the 250CC class, a feat uncomparable to any other rider in the sport. Born November 19, 1971 in San Francisco, CA, Jeremy McGrath, moved to Southern California. His parents bought him a mini-bike as a child, but McGrath honed his racing skills on the BMX circuit in So Cal. By the age of 15, Jeremy Mcgrath's need for speed turned his interests toward motocross. With his parents permission and funding efforts, Jeremy jumped into the motocross world.
He helped his parents fund his racing by bagging groceries and other odd jobs. Although entering the motocross circuit much later than most, Jeremy McGrath incorporated his BMX racing skills into his motocross racing, and after only 3 years as an amateur he made his AMA debut in 1989.
In 1993, Jeremy McGrath won his first AMA Supercross race, and the rest is history. McGrath went on to dominate the competition in the '93 AMA Supercross Series, winning 10 of 16 races and taking the championship. For the next 9 years until his retirement on January 2, 2003, McGrath went on to shatter every record in AMA Supercross history, including his seven AMA Supercross Championships in '93, '94, '95, '96, '98, '99, and '00. After his retirement Jeremy Mcgrath has still been a dominant force in the motocross world as well as a successful entreprenuer creating his own supercross race team as well as joining with former racer Jeff Ward, and artist Troy Lee to form the Troy Lee Designs/ Honda Supermoto Team in Spring 2003. Jeremy has been blessed with sponsors such as Bell, Thor, Alpinestars, Spy Optics, Troy Lee Designs, DC Shoes, and Honda.
Currently, Jeremy McGrath and his wife Kim are embarking on a new journey with the birth of their son Rhowan Parker McGrath, born December 11, 2005.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Riding a Motorcycle Safely in Traffic
To be able to ride your motorcycle safely in traffic you need to observe the rules of the road. While it might be tempting for a motorcycle rider to weave in between traffic to get where he or she is going faster, this is a no no. Motorcycles can maneuver easier than cars but they are much less protected in the event of an accident. While an auto driver has a bunch of steel around them for protection a motorcycle rider is much more vulnerable. So make sure you are safe and you observe these rules.
Make sure that you are aware of other driver's blind spots and try to keep yourself visible. You always need to assume that you have not been seen by other drivers. Its much safer that way for you. As stated before, no matter how tempting, don't weave in and out of traffic. Other drivers might get nervous and they wont be sure where you are going to go next and could swerve into you. So make sure that you don't do this!
Make sure that you are safe when you attempt to pass other vehicles. Trying to ride your motorcycle safely in traffic can be even more challenging than it can be for other vehicles. You have to look about you thoroughly, such as through the back windows and windshields of cars in front of you. Make sure that you also double-check the passing lane as well before you attempt to pass. Don't white line it. This is only legal in California anyway and it is not a good idea to try. This is where you pass other drivers in their lane.
These are just the rudimentary learnings for a motorcycle driver to be safe. There are many more things that you have to learn and put into effect as well. Making sure that you keep your distance from the car in front of you is a safe choice. As well as giving you time to stop and not hit the other vehicle, it is also a way to stop your bike from overheating in traffic. Having an oil cooler is also a good idea. Another good tip for helping to be safe is to have a cell phone and a roadside emergency plan just in case. It is better to have it and not need it than the reverse.
The best thing that a motorcycle rider can do to be safe is to always be aware of what is going on around them. Keep your head about you and make sure that you always leave yourself an out in case of a worse case scenario. If traffic comes to a quick halt you don't want to slam into the vehicle ahead of you. All drivers should be aware at all times but it is even more important for a motorcycle rider. To be able to ride a motorcycle safely in traffic you need to be on the ball and obey the rules of the road.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Performing a Pre-Ride Motorcyle Inspection
Making sure that you properly do a pre ride motorcycle inspection is vital to your safety. There are a few things that you must make sure that you do to see if your motorcycle is safe before you ride it. You don't want to fall short on these pre ride checks or it could mean a potential problem for you. That is something that you obviously want to avoid at all risks.
A good way to remember all that you should check before you ride would be to remember the acronym TCLOCK. Each letter stands for one of the checks that you should be doing before you get on that motorcycle and even go one mile. Its always better to be safe than sorry, especially on a motorcycle which affords you less protection on the road. You might be the best and safest motorcycle rider there is but you have to contend with other drivers on the road, and they are usually in cars. So making sure that you do your pre ride motorcycle inspection is another way of insuring that you have no worries from your motorcycles performance and you can concentrate on the road and your driving.
TCLOCK stands for: tires, Controls, Lights and Accessories, Oils and Fluids, Chassis and Chain, and Kickstand. First off you need to check your tires and make sure that your air pressure is good, otherwise you could have poor handling and stability. Next make sure that you try the throttle, clutch, front and rear brakes and shifter. Next up are the lights, make sure that they all work. Check the turn signals, brake lights and all of the electrical systems and switches. Make sure that you check the oil and the gas and all of the fluids. The correct way to check your oil is to warm up your motorcycle then stand it up straight and take the dip stick out, wipe it off then put it back in, take it out again and check the level.
The next thing that you should check is the drive train or belt. You want to make sure that they are adjusted according to the manufacturers specifications. Check the handlebars to make sure that everything is moving smoothly and properly. The next thing that you should do is to look for any leaks. Check the whole bike over to make sure that there are no oil, gas or hydraulic fluid leaks. The last thing on the list is to check your kickstand and make sure that it is working right.
Obviously you want to be as safe as you can be on your motorcycle and your pre ride motorcycle inspection is a great step in the right direction. If you check all of those items listed above before you get on your motorcycle to ride any distance well then you are going to be in better shape than if you didn't. It can help you to alleviate or even stop any problems before they turn into something much bigger.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Servicing Your Dirt Bike Air Filter
When you have a dirt bike, it is always important that you do everything that you can to take care of it. Proper maintenance is the key to ensuring that you will always have a good ride ahead of you. One of the things that you want to always be sure that you do to take care of your dirt bike is servicing the air filter. There are several simple steps that you can do yourself to take care of this.
If you are looking to clean your air filter, you want to be sure that you start off by cleaning your bike and then removing both the air filter as well as the air box from the bike. Cleaning both of them is the only way to go. A high pressure wash and a good soap should do the trick with the air box, but with the filter you are probably going to want to check into using a solvent. A good solvent is the perfect thing to remove some of the gunk that can get stuck in the foam.
You are now ready for the next step which is washing the filter. You can do this by simply using a good soap and some hot water. Once you have gotten all of the extra dirt out of the filter, you can then hang it up to dry thoroughly before the next step which is oiling the filter. When you are oiling the filter, you want to be sure to pour the oil in the filter from the inside out, always making sure it is completely covered. Now you are ready to reinstall the filter and you are ready to go!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Breaking In A New Dirt Bike Engine
Getting a new dirt bike or a new engine for your current bike can be quite an exciting experience. You want to get right out there and ride yourself into a frenzy! However, it is important to remember that it may be best to break in your new dirt bike engine first. There are some simple tips that you can follow to help you break in the new engine.
Many experts will tell you that you should start out by turning your bike so that the radiators are facing the wind. Once you are in position, you can start the dirt bike and turn your air screw out about 2 to 3 turns while making sure to turn your idle screw in. When you have done this, you can then let the bike run for a bit for about fifteen minutes or so until it warms up. You can then turn the engine off, and start this process over again. Basically, what you are doing is trying to get about an hour or so of the engine running to get you started for a good breaking in.
After you have done this, you can also repeat some of these steps when you go out for your first and second ride. When you start out for your first ride, you are going to want to take it a bit easier, maybe only riding for about 30 minutes or so. With your second ride, you can kick it up a little bit and ride for a longer time period. If you follow these steps and take care of your dirt bike, you are in for quite a few decent rides in the future!
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
Best Ways To Avoid Or Deal With A Motorcycle Tire Blowout
Nobody wants to have to go through a blowout when they are riding their motorcycle. However, in the unfortunate event that this does happen to you, it is important that you know what to do. There are some steps that you can take to reduce your risk of being hurt as well as possibly minimize the amount of damage that your motorcycle may endure.
Obviously, the smart thing to do would be to take as many steps as you can to try and avoid a blowout when you are riding. You can do this by inspecting your tires regularly, maybe even as often as before every ride. If you do happen that one of your tires is starting to go flat, you should always try to quickly fix it. This will help in maintaining proper balance at all times. Another very smart and important move is making sure that your tires are free from any debris such as nails or other sharp objects that can cause a puncture.
When you are riding and you happen to have a blowout, you should stay as calm as possible so you can concentrate on your steering. Holding on and keeping a straight course is your best bet for maintaining control. Once you determine which tire has started to go flat, you can then slowly apply the brake for the tire that is still inflated. After you do this, you can safely pull over to the side of the road and stop.
posted by Raceway ATV - the #1 kids Kazuma ATV dealer
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